10 Feb 2025
There are a few shuttles available which cost around $80 US, but if you're on a budget public transport might be a better option. In January 2025 it cost me about $8 -$10US for the entire trip which was about 5 or 6 hours including changing buses at Cuidad Quesada.
I was unable to find any details online but learned on Trip Advisor that the bus station in Alajuela is called Central Autobusera del Norte It is close to the hospital
I enquired in person, at the bus station and learned that there is one direct bus from Alajuela to La Fortuna each day, leaving Alajuela at 09:20. I believe the bus picks people up in San Jose first.
If you are not able to catch the direct bus you can take a bus to Ciudada Quesada / San Carlos, and change there to go to La Fortuna.
Important Points to note
If the direct bus is full (which is not uncommon) it will leave early. My suggestion would be to arrive at least 30 minutes early. I was 10 minutes early and it had already left because it was full
There may be a day when there is no direct bus - my apologies this is in the back of my mind but I cannot confirm - it would likely be a Sunday
There are many buses to Cuidada Quesada (at least one per hour) - I believe it will say San Carlos on the bus. There are several people to assist in catching the right bus, just let a staff member know what you are looking for - BUT remain vigilant and listen for shout outs for San Carlos, as well as Cuidad Quesada. I was told it would be here in 20 minutes, but I waited 45 minutes - nothing seems regular or on time, don't panic
If you are like me and worried about missing your stop, fear not. The bus pulls into the Cuidad Quesada bus station and everyone gets off! Here someone will easily direct you to the bus to La Fortuna.
Hope this helps