How to get to Quepos

Located on the picturesque Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the town of Quepos serves as the main gateway to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park. This former port, which has become a centre for eco-tourism and sport fishing, attracts travellers with its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to wildlife. You can reach Quepos in various ways: from a quick flight on local airlines to an exciting journey by bus or car through the mountain ranges.

The fastest way to reach the coast is to take a flight to the local Quepos Airport (XQP), which accepts small aircraft and is located in close proximity to the town. This option allows you to save significant travel time, avoiding winding mountain roads.

For international travellers, the main arrival hubs are the airports in San José or San Isidro de El General. From there, you can transfer to a domestic flight to Quepos or continue by land transport, although a direct flight to the resort remains the most comfortable choice.

Direct railway connection to the town of Quepos is not available, as the railway network of Costa Rica is underdeveloped and does not cover this section of the Pacific coast. Trains in the country operate mainly within the Central Valley and are not the primary means of transport for tourists over long distances.

Even if you reach major transport hubs such as San José, continuing to the ocean by train is not possible. Travellers are advised to choose between bus services and car rentals for trips to this region.

Bus service is a popular and accessible way to reach the coast. Regular trips depart from the capital, San José, covering a distance of about 165 km along winding roads (note that the route by road is significantly longer than a straight line).

The journey usually takes about 4.2 hours, passing through picturesque mountain areas and tropical forests. Buses are generally quite comfortable, making the long journey less tiring for tourists wishing to enjoy views of the country.

Travelling by car offers the freedom to choose your route and stops. A trip from San José will take approximately 2.8 hours, during which you will drive about 165 km on paved highways, enjoying the changing landscapes. If you are coming from San Isidro de El General, the path is shorter — only 75 km, which will take about 1.4 hours.

A route from Tambor is also available, spanning about 150 km, which will require approximately 2.7 hours of driving. Renting a car or booking a private transfer is an excellent choice for those who value comfort, however, drivers should be attentive on mountain road sections.

When planning a visit to Quepos, it is useful to familiarize yourself with local features in advance so that your holiday is as comfortable as possible. The following recommendations will help you navigate the town and its surroundings better.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and humid. Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and definitely a raincoat, especially if travelling during the rainy season (May to November).
2. Transport. You can move around the town itself on foot, and inexpensive buses run regularly to the beaches and the national park. Official red taxis are also available.
3. Finances. The national currency is the colón, but US dollars are accepted everywhere. It is recommended to carry small cash for bus fares and purchases in small shops.
4. Health and Safety. Use sunscreen with high SPF and insect repellents. Drink bottled water to avoid digestive issues.
5. Communication. The official language is Spanish. In the tourism sector, many speak English, but knowing basic phrases ("Hola", "Gracias") will be appreciated by locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Embrace the "Pura Vida" (pure life) philosophy — be relaxed, polite, and do not rush. Impatience is not customary here.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave belongings unattended on beaches, as monkeys and raccoons may steal them. Be cautious near river mouths where crocodiles may inhabit.
8. Additional Tip. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park as early in the morning as possible (opening at 7:00) to see more animals and avoid crowds of tourists.

Following these simple tips, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a tropical paradise and gain unforgettable impressions from the trip.