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The Ultimate Guide to Puerto Viejo (2026)
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a beautiful coastal town on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica.…
San José ⇄ Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
🏢 Terminal Atlántico Norte
Official MEPE departures every 2 hours from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. From $12 USD.
Dive into Caribbean culture, black-sand beaches and Afro-Caribbean vibes departing from San José with Autotransportes MEPE. One of the most frequent routes in Costa Rica.
📅 Bus Schedule
| Departure | Est. Arrival | Company | Terminal | Days | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | ~10:30 AM | MEPE | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $12 |
| 8:00 AM | ~12:30 PM | MEPE | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $12 |
| 10:00 AM | ~2:30 PM | MEPE | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $12 |
| 12:00 PM | ~4:30 PM | MEPE | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $12 |
| 2:00 PM | ~6:30 PM | MEPE | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $12 |
| 4:00 PM | ~8:30 PM | MEPE | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $12 |
⚠️ Schedules are verified but may change. Always confirm at the terminal. Last updated 2026.
↩️ Return Trip (Puerto Viejo de Talamanca → San José)
Return buses typically depart from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca in the morning and afternoon. Look for the same bus company at the local terminal in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Always ask at your hotel/hostel for the exact local pickup point.
💡 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
⭐ Traveler Reviews
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