In short
- Public buses drop you off directly at the highway entrance.
- A taxi or Uber from Jaco costs $15 to $25 USD each way.
- The drive is fully paved and requires no 4x4 vehicle.
In this article
Carara National Park sits right on Route 34. This makes it highly accessible by public transit, taxi, or car. Here is exactly how to arrive and what to expect from each transport option.
Can I get to Carara National Park without a rental car?
Yes, you have three reliable alternative transit options.
You do not need to drive yourself. You can catch a public bus, take a short taxi ride from Jaco, or book a guided tour that includes round-trip transportation.
How do I take the public bus to Carara?
Board any bus traveling between San Jose and Jaco or Quepos.
Tell the driver you want to get off at Carara. The bus will drop you off right on the highway next to the park entrance. The fare is approximately $5 USD.
How do I get back by public bus?
You must wait by the highway to flag down a passing bus.
Buses only pass by on their regular routes between Quepos, Jaco, and San Jose. You need to coordinate your return timing based on the daily bus schedules.
Can I take a taxi or Uber from Jaco?
Yes, a taxi or Uber ride from Jaco takes just 20 minutes.
Expect to pay $15 to $25 USD for a one-way trip. Taxis do not wait at the park entrance. You must arrange a specific pickup time with your driver before they drop you off.
Do guided tours provide transportation?
Yes, you can book a half-day excursion with round-trip transit included.
Tours depart from Jaco, Los Sueños, and San Jose. These packages generally cost between $50 and $100 USD. They include your transport, the park entrance ticket, and a certified naturalist guide.
What do I need to know about driving to Carara?
The park is located directly on Route 34 (Costanera Sur).
The main highway and the park's parking lot are fully paved. You do not need a 4x4 vehicle. Parking is free, but do not leave valuables inside your car.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need a 4x4 to visit Carara National Park?
No. The drive along Route 34 and the park's parking lot are both fully paved.
How much is parking at Carara National Park?
Parking at the main entrance lot is free for all visitors.
Can I buy my park ticket at the gate?
No. You must purchase your $10 USD foreigner entrance ticket in advance via the official SINAC website.
