Option 01
Auto · Car
~2h 30 · SJO → Route 1 → Route 702
From San José's Juan Santamaría International (SJO), take Route 1 toward San Ramón, then Route 702 through La Tigra to La Fortuna. About two and a half hours, one of the most scenic approaches to Arenal.
A 4×4 isn't a must, but it gives you peace of mind on the gravel roads.