Shared Lake Crossing from Monteverde to La Fortuna de Arenal

Puntarenas , Costa Rica

Shared Lake Crossing from Monteverde to La Fortuna de Arenal

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(3 reviews)

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About this experience

Our daily shuttles offer a safe, convenient, and economical way to travel between the most popular destinations in Costa Rica.

Travel easy and fun between Arenal and Monteverde on this Arenal Lake Crossing experience. This is the quickest and most popular route. The trip combines comfortable door-to-door minivan transfer with a fun and scenic cruise across the beautiful Lake Arenal, where you will experience amazing views of the majestic Arenal Volcano.

Shuttle service is a shared transportation option in an air-conditioned minibus (or coaster) between popular destinations.

Shuttle routes operate daily, and in some cases there are multiple departure times throughout the day. However, shuttles are by no means a public bus.

All the vehicles used for shuttle transportation are air conditioned, well-maintained minibuses (passenger vans) driven by reliable and punctual Costa Rican bilingual professionals, who are eager to help you move safely around the country.

Available options

Departure at 8:00 am

Pickup included

Departure at 2:00 pm

Pickup included

What's included

Water bottle

Hotel pickup and drop-off

WiFi on board

Driver

Taxes and Fees

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Boat ticket

What you'll see

For group sizes of one, two, and sometimes three people, shuttle service is a convenient and economical way to travel.

For nearly all the shuttle transportation routes, there is at least one stop along the way where passengers can stretch, use the facilities, and get a snack. In most cases, shuttle transport provides door-to-door service, picking passengers up at hotels in the starting destination and dropping them off at hotels in the final destination.

We will gladly pick you up from your hotel in Monteverde, then you will get transported by a comfortable vehicle to the lake, where you will board a safe and fully insured boat for approximately one hour across the lake. Once you reach the other side, one of our professional drivers will take you to your hotel in Arenal on a comfortable vehicle.

However, sometimes a particular hotel is located outside the area’s main hotel zone, and the shuttle will not provide this door-to-door service. In these cases, a taxi can take you and your group to the shuttle pickup location or your final hotel stop.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Approximate pickup time depends on the pickup location.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

All shared shuttles include a 10 minute rest stop where passengers can stretch, use the facilities, and get a snack. This stop may be a connection stop or may involve a change of vehicle depending on the route.

Please provide the pickup location so we can give you an approximate pickup time.

Please be ready 15 minutes before the confirmed pickup time.

Please provide the drop off location.

The pickup time may vary without notice depending on road traffic and other pick-ups.

The driver will wait a maximum of 10 minutes at the pickup location for a passenger traveling on shared shuttles. If passenger doesn't show 10 minutes passed the pickup time they will be considered No Show and 100% of the service will be charged.

Sometimes a particular hotel is located outside the area’s main hotel zone, and the shuttle will not provide door-to-door service. In these cases, a taxi can take you and your group to the shuttle pickup location or your final hotel stop.

Morning shared shuttles are operated with a minimum of 2 passengers. If you are only 1 passenger, you can still check for availability since it is possible that we have more passengers on that same date/time and thus accommodate your reservation at the closest time/date available.

Afternoon shared shuttles are operated with a minimum of 4 passengers. If you have fewer passengers, you can still check for availability since it is possible that we have more passengers on that same date/time and thus accommodate your reservation at the closest time/date available.

Please provide us with the departure time, and exact name of the pick-up and drop-off locations (airport, hotel, private home, or identifiable landmark in Costa Rica). Otherwise, we can't completely confirm the booking until we have all this info.

Important notes

• Please provide the pickup location so we can give you an approximate pickup time.
• Please be ready 15 minutes before the confirmed pickup time.
• Please provide the drop off location.
• Sometimes a particular hotel is located outside the area’s main hotel zone, and the shuttle will not provide door-to-door service. In these cases, a taxi can take you and your group to the shuttle pickup location or your final hotel stop.
• The pickup time may vary without notice depending on road traffic and other pick-ups.
• The driver will wait a maximum of 10 minutes at the pickup location for a passenger traveling on shared shuttles. If passenger doesn't show 10 minutes passed the pickup time they will be considered No Show and 100% of the service will be charged.

About Puntarenas

Puntarenas is a vibrant coastal city in Costa Rica known for its beautiful beaches, rich maritime history, and as a gateway to the Pacific coast. It offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Top Attractions

Puntarenas Beach

A popular beach right in the city, perfect for a quick dip or a relaxing walk along the shore.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Caldera Bay

A scenic bay with beautiful views of the coastline and the Gulf of Nicoya. It's a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Puntarenas Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the city and the coastline. It's a great spot for photography and learning about the maritime history of Puntarenas.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lime or bitter orange juice, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. Often served with tortilla chips or patacones (fried plantains).

Appetizer Contains seafood and citrus.

Gallo Pinto

A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, bell peppers, and spices. Often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be vegan if no animal fat is used.

Olla de Carne

A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often made with a variety of vegetables, potatoes, and sometimes plantains. A comforting and filling dish.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, can be made with other meats or vegetables.

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Hiking Beach lounging Sunbathing Picnicking Visiting historic sites Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

The dry season offers sunny weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for beach activities and outdoor adventures. This is the busiest time for tourism.

25°C to 32°C 77°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (especially in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution.

Puntarenas is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using public transport, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

Getting there

By air

Juan Santamaría International Airport • 100 km (62 miles) from Puntarenas

By bus

Terminal 7-10

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent services. Buses are a great way to explore the area.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Caldera

Day trips

Nicoya Peninsula

30-50 km (19-31 miles) • Half day to full day

The Nicoya Peninsula offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a great spot for a day trip from Puntarenas.

Festivals

Fiestas Patronales de Puntarenas • July

Pro tips

Visit the Puntarenas Beach early in the morning for a peaceful and relaxing experience.
Explore the local markets for fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs.
Take a boat tour to the Nicoya Peninsula for a day trip or overnight stay.
Try the local seafood, especially ceviche and fried fish.
Visit the Puntarenas Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and coastline.