Getting around San Jose is a breeze with reliable private car services that won’t break the bank. Professional drivers navigate the city streets while you relax in clean, modern vehicles equipped with air conditioning and WiFi. I especially recommend the airport-to-La Fortuna transfer – while $170 might seem steep, the comfort and door-to-door convenience make it worthwhile.
Two standout services have earned my thumbs-up: Costa Rica Private Transport for their spotless fleet and English-speaking drivers, and San Jose VIP Transfer for their exceptional flexibility with last-minute changes. Both maintain near-perfect on-time records and provide those thoughtful extras like complimentary water.
Let’s explore the top-rated private car services in San Jose and their specialties.
Key Points
- Private transfer services in San Jose offer reliable, punctual, and comfortable transportation with professional drivers, complimentary amenities, and customization options.
- Premium Transportation Costa Rica provides private driver services for up to 5 passengers, with flexible scheduling, direct routes, and inclusive amenities.
- Consistent 5-star ratings and high customer satisfaction among various private car with driver services in San Jose, indicating a positive travel experience.
- Services cater to different group sizes, with options for up to 9 passengers, and offer free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later policy.
- While most services are not wheelchair accessible, they accommodate families with children and offer special requests such as infant seats and service animals.
Private Transfer Juan Santamaria Airport to La Fortuna From 1 to 6 Passengers
One private transfer service that stands out for travelers flying into Juan Santamaría International Airport and heading to La Fortuna is the transfer option accommodating 1 to 6 passengers.
Priced at $170 or less per group, the service boasts a 5.0 overall rating from 191 reviews, with 98% of travelers recommending it.
The transfer includes local taxes, a driver, airport pickup, hotel drop-off, and transportation by air-conditioned minivan.
Passengers can also take advantage of infant seats, service animals, and stroller accessibility.
The driver will await travelers at the exit gate with a sign displaying their name, and booking confirmation is provided upon reservation.
Read our full review: Private Transfer Juan Santamaria Airport to La Fortuna From 1 to 6 Passengers Review
Book now: Check availability
Private VIP Transfer From San Jose Airport to La Fortuna
For travelers flying into San Jose’s Juan Santamaria International Airport and heading to the stunning La Fortuna region, the private VIP transfer service stands out as a premier option.
With air-conditioned, private transportation and English-speaking, knowledgeable drivers, the journey isn’t only comfortable but also enriched by insights into local culture.
The service includes bathroom/eating stops, bottled water, and refreshing towels, ensuring a seamless experience.
Priced at €172.38 per group (up to 9 passengers), the transfer service offers excellent value, with 100% of 40 reviews praising the service.
Prompt pickups, timely service, and driver recommendations for local dining and attractions further elevate this VIP transfer option.
Read our full review: Private VIP Transfer From San Jose Airport to La Fortuna Review
Book now: Check availability
Private San José Airport Transfer to San José Hotels
Travelers seeking a convenient and reliable airport transfer service from San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport to their hotels within the city can find an ideal option in the private transfer service.
With a 95% traveler recommendation and an average rating of 5.0 based on 62 reviews, this service offers a door-to-door transfer at a competitive price starting from £43.94 per group of up to 6 people.
The service features air-conditioned vehicles, and while not wheelchair accessible, it does accommodate infants and service animals.
Customers praise the professional drivers, safety, and informative rides, though some have noted difficulty finding drivers upon arrival and occasional higher pricing compared to alternatives like Uber.
Read our full review: Private San José Airport Transfer to San José Hotels Review
Book now: Check availability
Braulio Carrillo 6 in 1 Full Day Pass With Optional Transfer
The Braulio Carrillo 6 in 1 Full Day Pass offers a comprehensive adventure experience within the Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Atlantic eco-reserve, located just 45 minutes from San José.
This full-day tour includes an aerial tram ride, zipline canopy tour, butterfly and orchid garden, amphibian and reptile terrariums, guided nature trail exploration, and a knowledgeable bilingual naturalist guide.
Guests can choose to arrange transportation or opt for a tour-only option. While not suitable for those with certain medical conditions, the experience provides scenic views, wildlife sightings, and thrilling activities.
Feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and safety during the zipline, though some note transportation challenges and limited driver interaction.
Read our full review: Braulio Carrillo 6 in 1 Full Day Pass With Optional Transfer Review
Book now: Check availability
Premium Transportation Costa Rica (English Speaking Driver)
Premium Transportation Costa Rica provides a reliable and efficient private driver service tailored to transport up to five passengers in comfort.
Recommended by 97% of travelers based on 31 reviews, the service offers up to 10 hours per day with a daily driving distance of up to 300 km.
Exclusively for your party, the vehicle is equipped with a cooler, soft drinks, and bottled water.
Child and infant seats are available at no extra cost, and the driver’s meals and accommodation are included.
Passengers are responsible for their own food, drinks, and additional accommodation expenses.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.
Read our full review: Premium Transportation Costa Rica (English Speaking Driver) Review
Book now: Check availability
Hire Costa Rica Driver for 10-hour (English Speaking)
Hire Costa Rica Driver for 10-hour (English Speaking)
This private driver service in Costa Rica provides an English-speaking driver for up to 10 hours per day.
It’s recommended by 100% of travelers based on 15 reviews. The daily driving distance is up to 300 km, with driver meals and accommodation included.
Passengers are responsible for their own food, drinks, and additional expenses.
Pickup service is available, and drop-off is within Costa Rica. The service isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.
The price is €770.40 per group of up to 15 passengers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tips and gratuities of 10% are recommended.
Read our full review: Hire Costa Rica Driver for 10-hour (English Speaking) Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Arrival Transfer: San Jose Airport to Arenal Volcano or La Fortuna Town
Looking to seamlessly transfer from San Jose Airport to the Arenal Volcano or La Fortuna Town? This private arrival service offers a 100% recommendation rate from 21 travelers.
The service includes airport meet and greet, private one-way transfer in an air-conditioned minivan, and all taxes and fees. Pickup is available from any hotel, private house, or specified address in San Jose, with drop-off in La Fortuna, Alajuela Province.
While the duration depends on traffic, each traveler is allowed one suitcase and one carry-on. Customers praised the drivers’ patience, friendliness, and knowledge of Costa Rican culture.
Priced at $199 per group of up to 6, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this service provides a convenient and reliable start to your Arenal Volcano adventure.
Read our full review: Private Arrival Transfer: San Jose Airport to Arenal Volcano or La Fortuna Town Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer Juan Santamaria Airport to La Fortuna From 7 to 10 Passengers
Why not consider a private transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport to La Fortuna for groups of 7 to 10 passengers?
This service includes a one-way private transfer with hotel drop-off, local taxes, and transport by air-conditioned minivan.
Recommended by 97% of travelers with a 5.0-star rating, the service is available from July 1, 2022, to December 12, 2025, with pickup options from the airport or a meeting point.
Priced at $207.36 per group, it offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Infant seats are available, though the service isn’t recommended for certain travelers.
Read our full review: Private Transfer Juan Santamaria Airport to La Fortuna From 7 to 10 Passengers Review
Book now: Check availability
Transfer in Private Vehicle From Sanjose Juan Santamaría Airport to Sanjose City
Travelers seeking a hassle-free arrival in San José can opt for a private vehicle transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport to the city center.
The service accommodates up to six passengers, with a duration of approximately 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The driver will meet you outside the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. Alternatively, you can choose to head directly to the meeting point.
The transfer includes hotel drop-off, all taxes and fees, and allows for a maximum of one suitcase and one carry-on per traveler.
With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, the service is praised for its seamless pickup, helpful drivers, and safe travel, though some concerns about vehicle condition have been noted.
Read our full review: Transfer in Private Vehicle From Sanjose Juan Santamaría Airport to Sanjose City Review
Book now: Check availability
This private transportation service provides a convenient option for travelers seeking a hassle-free transfer between Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and the Esterillos – Bejuco area.
The service is available for hotels, Airbnbs, or rental properties in the region and features an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and bottled water.
Pickup and drop-off points are flexible, and the service operates 24/7.
Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the service offers infant seats and accommodates service animals.
With a perfect 5-star rating from past customers, this private transfer is a reliable and enjoyable option for getting to and from the airport.
Read our full review: Transfer TO & FROM SJO Airport to Esterillos – Bejuco Not Shared. Review
Book now: Check availability
One-Way Private Transfer From San Jose, CR Intl Airport to La Fortuna (Arenal)
For travelers seeking a convenient one-way private transfer from San José, Costa Rica’s International Airport to the popular destination of La Fortuna (Arenal), Volcano Travel Costa Rica offers a reliable and well-reviewed service.
Priced at €210.09 per group (up to 6 passengers), the transfer includes pickup at the airport, bottled water, in-vehicle WiFi, and a bilingual driver.
Passengers can expect a comfortable ride in a van labeled with the Volcano Travel brand. While the service isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does provide infant seats upon request.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Read our full review: One-Way Private Transfer From San Jose, CR Intl Airport to La Fortuna (Arenal) Review
Book now: Check availability
Arrival Transfer San Jose Airport SJO to San Jose City by Minivan
Arriving at San Jose’s Juan Santamaria International Airport, travelers seeking a seamless transfer to their hotel or accommodation in the city can rely on the private minivan service offered by Volcano Travel Costa Rica.
Featuring a fleet of Hyundai H1 or similar vehicles, this service provides a comfortable and efficient way to reach your destination.
The €38.23 per person rate (with variations for group size) includes a professional chauffeur, bottled water, and assistance with excess luggage.
With a perfect 5.0 average rating from 8 reviews, this service is known for its punctuality, clean vehicles, and helpful drivers who share local insights along the way.
Read our full review: Arrival Transfer San Jose Airport SJO to San Jose City by Minivan Review
Book now: Check availability
Hire Costa Rica Driver for 10-Hour (Solo Traveler)
Convenience and flexibility define the private driver service in San Jose, Costa Rica, tailored exclusively for solo travelers.
Offering up to 10 hours of driving and 300 km of coverage per day, this service provides a personalized transportation solution. Passengers can enjoy complimentary soft drinks and bottled water while being picked up and dropped off at their preferred locations.
Responsibility for expenses like food, activities, and accommodation lies with the traveler, who must also arrange their own medical and travel insurance. Tips of 10% are recommended.
This private tour accommodates infants and most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Bookable from December 2021 to December 2025, the service boasts a 5.0 rating from 2 reviews with no negative feedback.
Read our full review: Hire Costa Rica Driver for 10-Hour (Solo Traveler) Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer From San Jose Airport to Guanacaste Hotels
Travelers arriving in San Jose can seamlessly transfer to their Guanacaste hotels with this private airport transportation service.
It includes flight monitoring, options for stops, and vehicles accommodating various group sizes. The service provides bottled water, a driver/guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Customers can meet at the San Jose Metro or be picked up from their Alajuela, Heredia, or San Jose hotel, or the airport. The private tour is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals.
Priced from €288.20 per group (up to 3), it offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling.
Reviews praise the driver’s service and efficiency, though some note communication challenges and lack of provided bottled water.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From San Jose Airport to Guanacaste Hotels Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer From San Jose Airport to Uvita or Dominical
This private transfer from San Jose Airport provides seamless transportation to the destinations of Uvita or Dominical. Priced at $210.00 per group of up to 4, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
The service includes pickup from hotels and allows for wheelchair access, strollers, and service animals. Customers praise the excellent experience, friendly driver, and good communication.
Operating daily from 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM, this private tour is accessible to most travelers. The transfer is a convenient option for those seeking a stress-free journey from the airport to the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From San Jose Airport to Uvita or Dominical Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer From SJO Airport or Hotels to Manuel Antonio
For travelers seeking a seamless journey from San Jose’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) or their hotel to the stunning destination of Manuel Antonio, a private transfer service offers a convenient and comfortable option.
This one-way private transfer service features air-conditioned minivan transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the option for customized sightseeing along the way, including views of wild crocodiles at Tarcoles Bridge.
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, and gratuities are included. Operated by Tucanes Tours, the service is priced from $225.00 per group (up to 4 passengers) and has received a 5.0 rating from 3 reviews, with a lowest price guarantee and a flexible cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From SJO Airport or Hotels to Manuel Antonio Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer From San Jose to Puerto Viejo, Limon
From San Jose, travelers can conveniently reach the vibrant coastal town of Puerto Viejo, Limon, via a private transfer service.
This service offers a 3-hour scenic route with driver commentary, departing from the airport, hotel, or local address. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle includes WiFi, restroom facilities, and safety precautions like mandatory masks and disinfection.
Priced from $340 per group of up to 6, the service provides free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours prior.
With a 5.0 rating from 3 reviews, this private transfer ensures a hassle-free journey to Puerto Viejo, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenic drive in comfort and safety.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From San Jose to Puerto Viejo, Limon Review
Book now: Check availability
Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) to San Jose – Arrival Private Transfer
Arriving travelers can count on a seamless start to their Costa Rican journey with the private transfer service from Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport to San Jose.
The air-conditioned vehicle comes with all fees and taxes included. The driver will meet guests in the arrival hall, holding a sign with the lead traveler’s name. Advising the number of luggage at booking is important.
While the service isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Infant seats are available, and the location is near public transportation.
Customers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and reserve now with a pay-later option. The private transfer service has an impressive 5.0 star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews.
Read our full review: Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) to San Jose – Arrival Private Transfer Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer Airport or San Jose Hotels to Puerto Viejo Limon
Private transfers from San Jose to the coastal region of Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, or Limon provide a comfortable and convenient way to travel.
Travelers are met by a driver in a red t-shirt holding a sign with their name, then transported in an air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi.
The service accommodates groups of 1-4 passengers and provides a fixed price, ensuring cost transparency.
Pickup can be arranged directly from the airport or hotel lobby.
This private transfer service is provided by a reputable local tour operator and is well-reviewed, with an overall rating of 5.0 from 2 reviews.
Read our full review: Private Transfer Airport or San Jose Hotels to Puerto Viejo Limon Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer From San Jose Downtown to Liberia Airport
A private transfer service from downtown San Jose to Liberia Airport provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel.
The service accommodates up to six travelers, offering a hassle-free experience with a professional driver who assists with luggage. Travelers can enjoy the air-conditioned minivan while drinking complimentary bottled water.
The door-to-door service includes a flat fare, with no hidden fees, and operates 24/7. Passengers can select their pickup and drop-off points during booking and receive confirmation upon reservation.
While the service isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does permit service animals and infant seats.
With a 5.0 rating based on a review, the private transfer service ensures a stress-free journey from San Jose to Liberia Airport.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From San Jose Downtown to Liberia Airport Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book a Private Car for a One-Way Trip?
Yes, you can book a private car for a one-way trip. Many private car services offer one-way transportation options, allowing you to travel to your destination without the need to return with the same vehicle.
Do You Offer Any Discounts for Group Bookings?
Yes, many private car services offer group booking discounts. The exact discount amount may vary, but you can typically save on the per-person rate when booking for a group. Be sure to inquire about any group pricing options.
What Is the Maximum Number of Passengers Allowed per Vehicle?
The maximum number of passengers allowed per vehicle varies depending on the size of the vehicle. Most private car services can accommodate up to 4 passengers, while larger van or SUV options may be available for groups of up to 7 or more.
How Do I Cancel or Modify My Existing Booking?
To cancel or modify an existing booking, you can typically do so through the company’s website or by contacting their customer service. They’ll guide you through the process and ensure your reservation is updated or cancelled according to their policies.
Can I Request a Specific Make or Model of Car?
Yes, you can typically request a specific make or model of car when booking a private car with driver service. Many providers offer a variety of vehicle options to choose from to meet your preferences.
Recap
Private car with driver services in San Jose provide convenient and reliable transportation options for travelers. These services offer a range of packages, from airport transfers to day tours, catering to individual needs. With an English-speaking driver, travelers can explore the city and its surroundings with ease and comfort. Whether it’s a private transfer or a full-day sightseeing trip, these services ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.