San José - Manuel Antonio: Private Transfer with Local Stops

Summary

Private ride from San José to Manuel Antonio with stops for crocs

You’ll get picked up right at San José airport or your hotel by a local driver who knows every shortcut and story along the way to Manuel Antonio or Quepos. Expect cold bottled water, WiFi in the van, and chances to stop for crocodile watching or a quick meal at a roadside soda. It’s not just a transfer — you’ll actually remember parts of this drive.

What’s the experience like?

We landed in San José and honestly, I was just relieved someone was waiting for us outside the airport. Our driver, Carlos, waved a little sign with my name (spelled right, which felt like a good omen). The van smelled faintly of lemon cleaner and the seats were cool — a small mercy after the sticky air outside. He handed us cold bottles of water from a cooler and asked if we wanted to stop anywhere on the way to Manuel Antonio. I hadn’t really thought about it, but he suggested the Tarcoles River for crocodile spotting. Sounded wild enough.

The drive itself is about three hours, but it didn’t feel long. Carlos pointed out little things — like why some roadside stands hang plastic bags filled with water (to keep flies away, apparently). We pulled over at the bridge over Tarcoles and there they were: huge crocodiles just sunning themselves below. I tried to count them but lost track after six or seven. There’s this weird hush up there on the bridge, everyone peering down quietly except for one kid who kept saying “Whoa!” louder each time. It’s funny what sticks in your head.

We stopped again at a soda — that’s what they call small restaurants here — where I had gallo pinto and coffee that tasted stronger than anything back home. Carlos chatted with the owner in rapid Spanish; I caught maybe two words but felt included anyway. The van had WiFi (which worked), so I sent my mom a picture of a crocodile and she replied “Yikes!” within seconds. The rest of the ride blurred by in green hills and patches of rain. By the time we reached Quepos, I realized how much more relaxed I felt compared to those shuttle buses packed with strangers.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Airport Pickup and Scenic Drive

• Transfer from San José Airport to Manuel Antonio
• Stop at Tarcoles River for crocodile viewing
• Optional stops at restaurants or souvenir stores

Top questions

How long is the drive from San José to Manuel Antonio?

The private transfer takes about three hours by road.

Is pickup included from San José airport?

Yes, pickup is available directly from SJO airport or your hotel.

Can we stop during the transfer for sightseeing?

Yes, you can ask your driver to stop at places like Tarcoles River or local restaurants along the route without extra charge.

Is bottled water provided during the trip?

Yes, cold bottled water is included in your private transfer.

Are vans wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants travel on this transfer?

Infants can ride on an adult's lap; infant seats are also available if needed.

Is WiFi available in the vehicle?

Yes, free WiFi is provided onboard during your journey.

What’s included

Your trip includes pickup from San José airport or your hotel, all fees and taxes covered, an air-conditioned van with WiFi onboard, cold bottled water from a cooler, and flexible stops along the way for photos or snacks before arriving in Manuel Antonio or Quepos.