Getting around Costa Rica can be hard. But with a little patience and research you can get around the country for dirt cheap. If you want to see Arenal Volcano (Volcan Arenal) you’ll have to get to La Fortuna. The good news is you can get to La Fortuna by bus.
The bad news is:
Traveling here by bus is quite a bit away. If you’re not trying to backpedal, the transportation to places other than San Jose is abysmal. If you are trying to do Costa Rica on a budget, this is one place I would suggest renting a car. For one thing, prices aren’t that much more, especially if you split the costs with someone else, as there are many places in between that are worthy of stopping off. Or consider hitchhiking. It is common in this country and if you keep your wits and know a decent amount of Spanish you shouldn’t have a problem.
If you want my honest opinion on this city as well as things to do, read my page on La Fortuna on a budget.
If you are still considering taking the bus, or had your drivers license recently expire (like I did, sigh) then there is a direct bus from San Jose’s Terminal 7-10 three times a day. The cost is ₡2580 (about $4.50) for one way. You’ll arrive at La Fortuna bus station which is located right in the center of town. Most accommodation isn’t too far as well as numerous restaurants and shops.
The bus station fortunately is located right in the middle of town.
