Manuel Antonio Getting There
Air:
Local carriers, Nature Air and Sansa, fly between San Jose and Quepos several times a day, with departures and arrivals from many popular tourist locations.
Bus:
Direct buses from San Jose depart from the Tracopa Station at Plaza Viquez (Calle 5 and Avendia 20) in San Jose: $8; 6:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; 3 hours;. 2223-5567.
Indirect buses from San Jose also depart from Tracopa at: 7:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m; 5 hours.
Collective Shuttle Bus:
Private shuttle companies, Interbus and Grayline, offer door-to-door service between major tourist destinations and Manuel Antonio. Air-conditioned buses seat 10 to 15 passengers and have a bilingual driver. There are both morning and afternoon departures for Manuel Antonio for $45 per person, each way.
Car:
Travel time between San Jose and Manuel Antonio is roughly three hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Take Route 27 west toward Orotina, the fastest way – for about 30 – 40 minutes. Exit toward Route 34, following signs to Jaco. Expect to pay around $5 in tolls - payable only in Costa Rican currency. Before reaching Jaco, you'll cross the Tarcoles River Bridge where dozens of crocodiles can be spotted from the road. From Jaco, it's an easy one-hour drive to Manuel Antonio.