How to get to Tambor

The picturesque village of Tambor is located in the south of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica and is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, wide beaches, and rich tropical nature. This cosy resort is ideal for those seeking seclusion away from noisy metropolises, offering guests a relaxed holiday on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. You can get here in various ways: by taking a quick domestic flight or embarking on an exciting journey by car, which often includes a scenic ferry crossing.

The fastest way to reach the beach is by air transport. The resort is served by its own Tambor Airport (TMU), which receives regular domestic flights, allowing you to significantly save time and avoid long transfers.

The main transfer hub is the international airport in the city of San José, from where the flight to the peninsula takes only about 25–30 minutes. You can also arrive by air from other tourist centres, such as Quepos and La Fortuna, if the local airline schedule allows for a connecting route.

There is no direct railway connection to the village of Tambor, as there are no tracks laid in this region. Trains in Costa Rica mainly operate only in the vicinity of the capital and are not used for long-distance trips to Pacific resorts.

Tourists arriving in the country should orient themselves towards major transport hubs, such as San José. From there, the journey to the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula will need to be continued by rented car, bus, or plane.

There are few direct bus services linking remote cities directly to the resort of Tambor, so the route often requires transfers. The main path usually runs through the city of Puntarenas, from where passengers cross by ferry to Paquera along with the bus, and then continue the journey by land.

Travellers are advised to check the schedule in advance at bus stations in the city of San José. A bus trip is a budget-friendly way to see the country; however, it is worth noting that taking into account the ferry crossing and stops, the journey may take from 4 to 6 hours.

A journey by car from the city of San José is an exciting adventure that usually takes about 4–5 hours. The optimal route runs through the port of Puntarenas, where you need to take a ferry to Paquera (the crossing lasts about an hour and a half), after which it remains to drive about 40 minutes to the resort itself.

A trip from other popular places, such as La Fortuna or Quepos, will require more time and planning. The road may take from 5 hours or more, depending on the chosen path (via the La Amistad bridge or ferry) and road conditions, but it will grant you freedom of movement.

Preparation for a trip to Tambor will help make your holiday as comfortable and safe as possible. Here are some practical recommendations that will be useful for every tourist in this tropical corner.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and humid. Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics, modest swimwear, and comfortable shoes. During the rainy season (May to November), a light raincoat will definitely come in handy.
2. Transport. To travel around the surroundings and beaches of the peninsula, it is best to rent an SUV (4x4), as many roads can be unpaved and uneven.
3. Finances. The official currency is the colón, but US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. Cash (small denominations) will be useful for paying in small cafes and shops, while cards are accepted in hotels.
4. Health and Safety. Use mosquito repellents and sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50+). It is better to drink only bottled water.
5. Communication. The official language is Spanish. In tourist zones, staff often speak English, but knowing basic phrases will be a great plus.
6. Local Etiquette. The main motto of Costa Ricans is "Pura Vida" (pure life). This means a relaxed and positive attitude towards everything. Be polite and do not rush things.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach or in the car. Try not to plan long journeys during dark hours due to road conditions.
8. Additional Tip. If you are travelling by car, check the Puntarenas–Paquera ferry schedule in advance and arrive at the pier at least an hour before departure to guarantee boarding.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere and enjoy the beauty of nature without unnecessary worries.