How to get from Liberia to Tamarindo

Often used as a jumping-off point for Rincón de la Vieja and Santa Rosa national parks, or for a break on the way to Nicaragua, Liberia is also a gateway to Guanacaste’s beaches. With that in mind, read on to find out how to get from Liberia to Tamarindo, where excellent surf and unforgettable wildlife experiences await.

How to get from Liberia to Tamarindo 

With all options taking between 1,5 and 2,5 hours, visitors have a few ways to get from Liberia to Tamarindo.

You can complete this route in 4 ways:

• By public bus: there are direct buses available, and the journey takes around 2.5 hours. The bus station in Liberia is located in the town center, where you can also purchase the tickets.
• By shuttle bus: more comfortable option than public buses, but a little bit more expensive. You can book a shuttle in advance, often with a possibility of pick up from your hotel. 
• By taxi: A taxi from Liberia to Tamarindo can be quite expensive, but offer privacy and flexibility in terms of departure time and drop-off location.
• By hiring a rental car: There are several car rental companies available at Liberia International Airport, where you can easily find a vehicle that suits your needs.

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How far is Liberia from Tamarindo? 

The road between Liberia and Tamarindo is around 48 miles (78 km) long. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive.

With Route 21 being a major road in good condition, it should be quite smooth ride. The road is generally well-paved, but you might encounter some potholes or rough patches in certain areas.

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What's the quickest way to get from Liberia to Tamarindo? 

Looking for the quickest way to get from Liberia to Tamarindo? Most options — shuttle bus, rental car and taxi — take 1.5 hours. 

Meanwhile, public buses are the slowest way to get from Liberia to Tamarindo, with journeys averaging 2.5 hours.

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By shared shuttle bus

Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: from $30

Operating at set times each day, taking a shared shuttle bus is a pretty cost-effective way to get from Liberia to Tamarindo. Several operators offer the service, with prices averaging $30 per person. 

For one example, a daily shuttle service leaves Liberia airport at 9.15 m and takes 1.5—2 hours. Once in Tamarindo, you'll be dropped off at your accommodation.

To make the most of your time in the region, read up on the best Guanacaste excursions.

By public bus

Duration: 2.5 hours | Cost: from $4

The most budget-friendly way to get from Liberia to Tamarindo is by public bus. Costing around $4 USD, the journey averages 2.5 hours, sometimes stretching to 3 hours.

You can either catch the bus from Liberia Municipal Station (in the town center), or Liberia airport, with several services operating each day.

Just be aware that seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. So, arrive early to make sure you bag one. Otherwise you could find yourself standing for the ride.

By rental car

Duration: 1.5 hours | Daily car rental cost: from $50

With a few companies operating from Liberia airport and in town itself, you could arrange to rent a car to drive to Tamarindo.

Rental costs start from $50 USD and the journey takes around 1.5 hours. That said, you might want to stop off along the way. Check a map to plot your route to take advantage of your freedom!

Oh, before booking a rental car, be aware that on top of the advertised daily rental rates, you’ll have to pay an additional mandatory insurance fee.

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By taxi

Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: from $80

Costing from $80 per person, private taxis are a good option for families, groups and couples who want a more personal, tailored journey from Liberia to Tamarindo.

Your driver can pick you up from the airport or your Liberia accommodation and have you in Tamarindo in under two hours. 

Unlike the shared shuttle option, you won’t have to wait for other passengers to arrive, and you won’t have to wait for fellow travellers to be dropped off at their Tamarindo accommodation.

That said, the journey time won’t be that much quicker than the shared shuttle, and you’ll pay at least double for the privilege of going private.

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