Manuel Antonio - SJO Airport: Private transfer with driver

Summary

A quiet drive from Manuel Antonio to SJO, with stories and small surprises along the way

You’ll travel from Manuel Antonio to San José Airport in comfort with a friendly local driver who knows every turn in the road. Enjoy cool water, Wi-Fi onboard, and chances to stop for photos or snacks along the way. With easy pickup at your hotel or Airbnb and relaxed conversation en route, it’s a journey you’ll remember long after landing.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little anxious about the drive from Manuel Antonio to SJO Airport — it’s not exactly a short hop (maybe three hours if you’re lucky with traffic), and I’d heard stories about winding roads and sudden rain. But when our driver, José, pulled up right on time outside our Airbnb, all smiles and a quick “¿Listos?” I felt myself relax. The van smelled faintly of citrus cleaner and something sweet — maybe those little car air fresheners? Anyway, it was spotless inside. He handed us cold water bottles before we even asked. It’s a small thing but honestly, after packing in the humidity, it felt like a gift.

The road out of Manuel Antonio is greener than I remembered — thick trees pressing close, flashes of blue sky between them. We passed through tiny towns where people waved at the van (I guess they know these drivers by sight). At one point José pointed out a roadside stand selling “miel de caña” — sugarcane honey — and offered to stop if we wanted. I almost said yes just for curiosity’s sake but chickened out last minute; now I kind of wish I hadn’t. He told us about his family in Quepos and how he learned English from tourists (“not from school,” he laughed). His accent made me smile — better than my Spanish for sure.

There’s Wi-Fi in the van (which my partner used immediately to check flight times), but honestly I spent most of the ride watching the landscape shift from jungle to rolling hills. Somewhere near Tarcoles we slowed down for photos — José knew just where to pull over so we could see crocodiles sunning themselves under the bridge. That part wasn’t on any schedule; he just seemed happy to share it. The air outside was thick and warm, buzzing with insects. Back in the van, he asked if we were hungry or needed another stop — no rush at all.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm on what’s usually just an airport transfer. There was something about having a local guide who actually cared if we were comfortable (and who didn’t mind my awkward attempts at Spanish). When we finally pulled up at SJO Airport, bags already waiting by the door before I’d even unbuckled, I realized I’d barely checked my phone at all. That quiet stretch of road still sticks with me — not dramatic or anything, just real life rolling past your window.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Transfer from Quepos to SJO Airport

• Private transfer from Quepos to SJO Airport
• Stop for photos and souvenirs
• Enjoy onboard WiFi and refreshments
• Driver provides local culture and nature info

Top questions

How long does the transfer from Manuel Antonio to SJO Airport take?

The drive typically takes around 3 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Is pickup available from hotels or Airbnbs in Manuel Antonio?

Yes, pickup is included from your location in Manuel Antonio—hotel, condo, or Airbnb.

Can we stop for photos or snacks during the transfer?

Yes, you can ask your driver to stop along the way for pictures or souvenirs.

Is there Wi-Fi available during the ride?

Free Wi-Fi is provided onboard during your private transfer.

Are child seats or wheelchair access available?

Specialized infant seats are available upon request; vehicles are wheelchair accessible.

Do drivers speak English?

Drivers speak basic or intermediate English and are happy to chat or answer questions.

Is water provided during the transfer?

A complimentary bottle of water is included for each passenger.

What’s included

Your trip includes private pickup at your accommodation in Manuel Antonio (hotel or Airbnb), transport with a local driver all the way to San José Airport, free Wi-Fi onboard so you can stay connected if you want it, plus bottled water for everyone along for the ride—and stops whenever you need them for photos or snacks before reaching SJO.