Public Bus: The Most Affordable Option to Santa Teresa
For budget-conscious travelers, the public bus is the cheapest way to go to Santa Teresa from San José. Transportes Cóbano operates direct buses twice daily from Terminal 7-10 in downtown San José, departing at 6:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The journey takes approximately six hours and includes a scenic ferry ride across the Gulf of Nicoya. The fare is around 8,500 colones (approximately $17 USD), which covers the ferry ticket.
Price for bus from San Jose to Santa Teresa
The cost? A budget-friendly 8,500 colones ($17 USD), making it the cheapest way to go to Santa Teresa from San José. Tickets are available online at La Terminal Costa Rica, where you can also check for any schedule changes, especially during the rainy season.
Steps in the trip by bus from San Jose to Santa Teresa
- Departure: Board the bus at Terminal 7-10, San Jose
- Ferry Crossing: The bus will drive onto the ferry at Puntarenas, allowing you to leave your luggage on board during the crossing to Paquera.
- Arrival: After the ferry, the bus continues to Santa Teresa, passing through Cóbano.
1. Terminal 7-10
Your journey starts at Terminal 7-10, also known locally as Terminal Coca-Cola.
Terminal 7-10 is located in downtown San José, in Barrio México.
For your convenience, it’s best to take an Uber to the terminal, avoiding the hassle of walking around the area. Check out the Google Maps location for easy navigation.
2. Puente Villa Bonita -Bus stop closer to the airport
If you’re arriving at San José International Airport, you have another convenient option closer to the airport: Puente Villa Bonita.
This bus stop is just a short 10-minute taxi ride from the airport, costing around 7,000 colones ($14 USD). Here’s the Google Maps location for Puente Villa Bonita. Keep in mind that this stop is not a terminal, but a regular bus stop on the street, and the bus will arrive about 30 minutes after its departure from Terminal 7-10.
- Uber can be use from airport to Puente Villa Bonita. Another option is to take a cab at the airport, official taxis are Orange. Or you can ask to our driver to pick you up through this form.
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Shuttle Services: A Balance Between Comfort and Cost
Shuttle services offer a more comfortable alternative to public buses, providing door-to-door service from San José to Santa Teresa. Companies like Tropical Tours Shuttles operate daily shared shuttles, with prices starting at $50 per person. The journey takes about five hours and includes the ferry crossing.
Benefits:
- Convenience: Pick-up and drop-off at your specified locations.
- Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicles with more comfortable seating.
Tips:
- Reservations: Book in advance to secure your seat.
- Luggage: Inform the company if you’re traveling with large items like surfboards.
Conscious Travel: Sustainable Tips for Your Journey
As you embark on your journey to Santa Teresa, consider the following eco-friendly practices:
- Public Transport: Opt for buses or shared shuttles to reduce carbon emissions.
- Waste Reduction: Carry reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
- Local Support: Choose local businesses and accommodations that prioritize sustainability.
