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How to get to Monteverde

By Car from San Jose

Take the Inter-American Highway north from San José direction Puntarenas. Drive past the towns of San Ramon, Esparza, and Puntarenas (Barranca). At the 149 kilometer road marker is the Sardinal intersection. It is located at Rancho Grande – 2 kilometers after the Restaurant La Cuenca. Here take the road to the right and drive to Sardinal. At the soccer field turn left and continue uphill for about 37 Km / 21 miles to Santa Elena. Once arrived in our small village go past the Super Compro supermarket down the hill and turn left at the next corner. You will soon see our sign to your right. Follow the cement driveway for 30 meters and you have arrived at Arco Iris Lodge.

The marker shows the location of our Hotel in Monteverde

Hotel Arco Iris Lodge is located on the edge of the village of Santa Elena, within walking distance of the bank, supermarket, shops, restaurants and the bus stop.

Public transportation and taxis are available to get to the the Santa Elena and Monteverde Reserves which are around three and a half miles away from Santa Elena.

By Private and Shuttle Transfers

Shuttle Bus

Door to door to and from major destinations in Costa Rica. You will travel with other passengers in an AC minivan for around $45 up to $60 per person. Please contact us for information about schedules.

La Fortuna Taxi Boat

Truly the fastest way to get to/ from La Fortuna, Arenal, in just 2.5 – 3 hours. A taxi van takes you down to Lake Arenal where you cross the lake by boat. A cab picks you up on the other side to bring you to your hotel in Monteverde/La Fortuna. The ride costs US$ 30 per person (an extra US$ 25 if you go to/from the Observatory Lodge). Pick up in La Fortuna / Santa Elena at 8 am and 2 pm.

Private Minibus

Door-to-door transportation to any destination within Costa Rica with a comfortable AC mini bus. All vehicles and passengers are fully insured.

You are free to make stops along the route to see attractions, eat or use restrooms. The pick up time can be at any hour. If you don’t want the hassle of driving your own car and have limited time to explore Costa Rica this may be a great option for you.

Minibus from Monteverde to	1 – 5 people *
SJO International Airport (Alajuela)	US$ 175
La Fortuna / Arenal	US$ 180
Liberia	US$ 160
Liberia Airport	US$ 175
Playa Coco, Flamingo, Tamarindo	US$ 195
Samara, Carrillo	US$ 185
Puntarenas	US$ 110
Mal Pais, Montezuma (via ferry)	US$ 290
Manuel Antonio	US$ 215
San José	US$ 195
Limon	US$ 385
Other destinations please inquire Rates can be subject to change.