Driving between San Jose and Tamarindo can be a very exciting part of your vacation. Allow 5 to 6 hours driving time depending on traffic. You may even have trouble swallowing as you witness daredevil drivers pass the inevitable slow-moving truck. Their bravery is amazing as they throw caution to the wind while passing them without regard to their personal safety. Some of their moves include passing on an uphill and tempting fate on a blind curve, and what is amazing is that they hardly ever get killed. Drive very defensively!