Gran Terminal del Caribe: Gateway to Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast
Your launchpad to Costa Rica's Caribbean adventures, with buses to stunning beaches, wildlife havens, and border crossings.
The Gran Terminal del Caribe is a major bus terminal in San José, Costa Rica, serving as the primary departure point for destinations along the country's Caribbean coast and northern border. It's a bustling hub where travelers can catch buses to popular spots like Limón, Tortuguero, and Puerto Viejo, as well as the Nicaraguan border crossing at Peñas Blancas.
A brief summary to Gran Terminal del Caribe
- San José, Bajos de La Union, San José Province, CR
- +50622220610
Local tips
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early to purchase your ticket, especially during peak season or holidays.
- Keep a close watch on your belongings, as bus terminals can be crowded and attract pickpockets.
- Have local currency (Colones) on hand to purchase tickets and pay for incidentals.
- Check the bus schedule in advance, as departure times can vary.
- If you're traveling to Tortuguero, be aware that the bus will only take you to a dock (La Pavona) where you'll need to transfer to a boat.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San José, local buses frequently run to Gran Terminal del Caribe. Look for buses with 'Terminal Caribe' or 'Tibás' displayed. The fare is typically between ₡150 and ₡500 (less than $1 USD). The ride can take 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, from the San José Airport (SJO), a direct bus operated by Pulmitan de Liberia runs to Gran Terminal del Caribe every two hours. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs $3-4.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in San José. A taxi from downtown San José to Gran Terminal del Caribe typically costs between ₡2,374 to ₡4,231 (approximately $4-8 USD), depending on distance and traffic. The ride usually takes 10-20 minutes. From the San José Airport (SJO), a taxi to the terminal will cost around $30-$40 USD and take about 18 minutes.
Discover more about Gran Terminal del Caribe
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gran Terminal del Caribe
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El Sótano
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La Casa Amón 1910
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Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora Porras
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Importadora Monge
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San José Free Walking Tour
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Galería Talentum
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Monumento a Carlos Gardel
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Monumento don José de San Martín
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Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural
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El reloj de la fuente de la Avenida Central
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SJ letrero
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Monge
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Unmissable attractions to see
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VIP City Bus Costa Rica
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Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Carmen
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Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden
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Spirogyra Butterfly Garden
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Morazán Park
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Monumento la amistad de México
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Los Presentes
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Templo de la Música
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Banco Central De Costa Rica Garden
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Essential places to dine
Eleven Avenue Restaurant
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Restaurante Silvestre
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Café Rojo
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Alma de Amón
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Del Mar
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Marelis Kitchen Restaurante y Cafetería
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HOWM
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Café Otoya
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Café Mundo
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Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Blue Zone Shop
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Ten shop San Jose
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Tienda Y Souvenirs Etnias
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Rosa Mater
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Multicentro San José
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Cris Store Boutique
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Pura Vida Souvenirs
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Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal
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Chinese Center Articles
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Nike Store
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Tienda Eñe
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Punto Favorito
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Jungle Bar & Grill
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Bar Poás
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La Marinita/Amistad Sports Bar
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La Vasco
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El Social Morazán
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Pub Piso 3
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Chubbs Bar
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Bar Cultura Cinco
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Stiefel Pub Otoya
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Bar Y Restaurante Eclipse
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Star Bar
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Koktela
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