SJO Airport - Manuel Antonio: Private Transfer with Local Driver

Summary

Private transfer SJO to Manuel Antonio with flexible stops & care

You’ll be greeted at SJO Airport by your local driver and travel in comfort toward Manuel Antonio, with flexible stops along scenic routes for photos or coffee breaks—maybe even spotting crocodiles at Tarcoles Bridge. Enjoy free WiFi and bottled water as you settle into Costa Rica’s rhythm—a welcome you’ll remember long after arrival.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re looking for me?” — that’s what our driver, Carlos, called out, holding up a sign with my name outside the arrivals at SJO Airport. I’d barely made it through customs when he waved, grinning like we’d met before. The van smelled faintly of lemon cleaner and something sweet — maybe the air freshener? We tossed our bags in and Carlos handed us cold water bottles right away. He asked if we wanted music or just the sound of the road (we went for music, but low). The drive started off on Route 1, then switched to Route 27 after about twenty minutes — I lost track because I was busy watching the countryside flicker past. It was humid but not uncomfortable; the AC worked quietly in the background.

We stopped at the Tarcoles River Bridge because Carlos said, “You want to see crocodiles?” — like it was just a normal thing you do on a day trip from SJO Airport to Manuel Antonio. There were already a few people leaning over the railings, pointing at these massive shapes drifting below. I grabbed a quick coffee from a roadside stand (the woman making it had this way of smiling without really smiling — just her eyes crinkled), and we stretched our legs for fifteen minutes or so. The coffee tasted earthy and strong; I probably should’ve added more sugar but didn’t want to look like a tourist (failed anyway). Back in the van, Carlos told us stories about driving this route — apparently he’s seen monkeys cross the road near Jaco more than once.

The whole transfer took about three and a half hours, give or take traffic. We could’ve stopped again for photos — Carlos kept saying “just tell me if you need anything” — but honestly by then I was half asleep against the window, lulled by that steady hum of tires on wet pavement. He checked in gently every hour or so (“todo bien?”) without being pushy. The van itself felt newish (he said 2018 model), seats comfortable enough that my back didn’t complain even after all those winding turns.

I didn’t expect to feel so looked after on what’s usually just an airport transfer. There’s something about being driven by someone who knows every curve of the road and where to find good coffee that makes you relax into Costa Rica before you even reach Manuel Antonio. Still think about those crocodiles sometimes — they barely moved, but you could feel their weight somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Transfer from SJO to Manuel Antonio

• Meet driver at SJO Airport arrival area
• Drive via route #1
• Stop at Tarcoles River Bridge to see crocodiles and use facilities
• Continue drive via route #27 with optional stops for photos or breaks

Top questions

How long is the transfer from SJO Airport to Manuel Antonio?

The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Is there WiFi available during the transfer?

Yes, free WiFi is included onboard your private vehicle.

Can I stop along the way for photos or coffee?

Yes, your driver will offer optional stops such as Tarcoles River Bridge or other spots if you ask.

Are child seats or wheelchair access available?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available upon request and vehicles are wheelchair accessible.

Will my driver speak English?

All drivers have basic or intermediate English skills and are happy to help with questions.

Is pickup included at SJO Airport?

Yes, your driver will meet you outside arrivals holding a sign with your name.

What kind of vehicle will I ride in?

The fleet consists of vehicles from 2017 or newer with comfort features.

Are service animals allowed during transfer?

Yes, service animals are allowed onboard during your journey.

What’s included

Your journey includes airport pickup at SJO by a local driver holding a sign with your name, private transport in a recent-model vehicle with free WiFi and bottled water provided onboard, plus flexible stops for photos or coffee—just ask your driver along the way if there’s something you want to see or need extra attention for kids or seniors.