To get from La Fortuna to Monteverde is tricky by public bus, and takes about eight hours total. We were prepared to spend an entire day sweating on the bus, but then someone suggested that we take the “Jeep-Boat-Jeep” from La Fortuna to Monteverde for $20. Not only does it get you to Monteverde in 3.5 hours (we left our hostel at 9am and arrived in Monteverde at 12:30pm), but you’re provided an exceptionally scenic route. First, we hopped in a car that took us from our hostel to Lake Arenal. Once at Lake Arenal, you board a boat for the sight-seeing part of the trip – you’re awarded fantastic views of Volcán Arenal, on top of some wildlife and lush landscapes.
After about an hour on the water, you’re seamlessly transferred into mini busses to transport you to your hostel or hotel. The mini vans have air conditioning and offer absolutely breathtaking views. I so wish that the driver could have pulled over so I could’ve sat and admired the landscape a bit longer! All in all, it was an easy trip from La Fortuna to Monteverde and most definitely worth the $20!
