San José ⇄ La Pavona (Tortuguero)
🏢 Terminal Atlántico Norte
Official Grupo Caribeños departures 6:30 AM, 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM to La Pavona dock. From $10 USD including the boat.
The main route to reach Tortuguero. Travel by bus to the La Pavona dock, then continue by river boat to the famous turtle-nesting village of Tortuguero.
📅 Bus Schedule
| Departure | Est. Arrival | Company | Terminal | Days | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:30 AM | ~11:00 AM | Grupo Caribeños | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $10 (bus+boat) |
| 9:00 AM | ~1:30 PM | Grupo Caribeños | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $10 (bus+boat) |
| 11:30 AM | ~4:00 PM | Grupo Caribeños | Terminal Caribeños | Daily | $10 (bus+boat) |
⚠️ Schedules are verified but may change. Always confirm at the terminal. Last updated 2026.
↩️ Return Trip (Tortuguero → San José)
Return buses typically depart from Tortuguero in the morning and afternoon. Look for the same bus company at the local terminal in Tortuguero. 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.
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