San José ⇄ La Fortuna (Arenal) — Costa Rica

San José ⇄ La Fortuna (Arenal)

🏢 Terminal Atlántico Norte

Direct bus from Terminal Atlántico Norte to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano), operated by Autotransportes San Carlos. Official departures 6:15 AM, 8:40 AM and 11:30 AM, from $7 USD.

Travel from the heart of San José to the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna de San Carlos. Enjoy hot springs, adventure activities and volcanic landscapes on this popular direct bus route operated by Autotransportes San Carlos. Note: since Terminal 7-10 permanently closed in April 2025, this route now departs from Terminal Atlántico Norte.

📅 Bus Schedule

DepartureEst. ArrivalCompanyTerminalDaysPrice
6:15 AM~10:45 AMAutotransportes San CarlosTerminal Atlántico NorteDaily$7
8:40 AM~1:10 PMAutotransportes San CarlosTerminal Atlántico NorteDaily$7
11:30 AM~4:00 PMAutotransportes San CarlosTerminal Atlántico NorteDaily$7

⚠️ Schedules are verified but may change. Always confirm at the terminal. Company/terminal last verified: September 2026.

💵 This company doesn't sell tickets online — pay in cash (colones) at the terminal before boarding.

↩️ How to get from La Fortuna / Arenal to San José

The Return Bus Journey

If you are searching for the bus schedule from La Fortuna / Arenal back to San José, you will generally use the same bus company listed above. Return buses typically depart from the main local terminal in La Fortuna / Arenal in the morning and afternoon.

  • Departure Point: The main bus station in La Fortuna / Arenal. Ask your hotel receptionist for the exact walking directions.
  • Tickets: Buy them at the local terminal at least 30 minutes before departure.
  • Duration: The travel time back to San José is roughly the same as the inbound trip.

Note: Schedules change frequently. Always confirm your return ticket time when you first arrive in La Fortuna / Arenal.

💡 Traveler Tips for This Route

🎒Pack light — overhead bins are small and luggage sometimes goes in the hold (free).
🪙Buy your ticket with Costa Rican colones (₡). USD may not be accepted.
⏰Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure, especially on Fridays and holiday periods.
🌧️During rainy season (May–Nov), carry a light rain jacket — buses can be cold with AC and it rains at destinations.
📱Download maps.me or Google Maps offline for your destination before you go — cell signal can be spotty in rural areas.
👀Watch your bags at bus terminals in San José. Keep your backpack in your lap during the journey.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

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