Road Trip in Costa Rica: An Unforgettable Adventure to Discover All the Wonders of the Land of Green Gold!

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Your driver will be waiting for you atJuan Santamaria International Airport, near San José, at an elevation of 1,150 meters in the heart of the Central Valley, to take you to your hotel located in the hills.

Spend your first night in Costa Rica at a beautiful hotel offering panoramic views of the Central Valley and San José.

Head to the Caribbean coast to experience the Pura Vida!

In the morning, pick up your rental vehicle at the Costa Rider rental agency to get familiar with your campervan.

The Aventure 4×4 – Jimny campervan is the perfect companion for exploring Costa Rica off the beaten path.

This rental vehicle is equipped with a 2-person rooftop tent, an awning, a 20-liter shower, an extra water tank, a cooler, 2 chairs, and a picnic table, everything you need for sleeping (mattress, sheets, and pillows), as well as all the kitchen utensils. And thanks to its four-wheel drive, it will take you on the country’s steepest roads.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with friends, the latest Suzuki Jimny is perfect for adventurers at heart who love off-roading! It will let you experience unforgettable road trips in Costa Rica.

Please note that a family option for 5 people is also available, featuring the Isuzu pickup truck equipped with two rooftop tents.

Route from San José to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Set off toward Costa Rica’s Atlantic coast.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the lush Braulio Carrillo Park, covered in dense tropical rainforest and drenched by torrential rains.

Approximate driving time: 4.5 hours.

First night of wild camping

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend a night camping in the wild. There are several possible spots, including Punta Uva, for a night by the water on a paradise-like beach.

Explore the Manzanillo Refuge and get an introduction to local cuisine!

You’ll start the day with a visit to the Gandoca-Manzanillo Nature Reserve, a beautiful park located along the coast that offers an unforgettable walk between land and sea.

Note: You can opt for a naturalist guide for a more immersive experience.

Approximate duration: 3.5 hours.

At the end of the day, it’s time to savor local flavors!

The Afro-Caribbean women of Puerto Viejo will welcome you to share their culinary traditions during a cooking class! An ideal way to discover Costa Rican and Caribbean culture in a unique way. You’ll savor traditional dishes such as patacones and rice and beans.

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Second night of backcountry camping

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend a night backcountry camping. There are several possible spots, including Punta Uva, for a night by the water on a paradise-like beach.

Next stop on the Caribbean coast: Tortuguero, the “Little Amazon”!

The road from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to La Pavona.

You’ll drive along the Caribbean coast, passing through Limón, on your way to La Pavona, the boarding point for the boat trip to the village of Tortuguero.

This is where you’ll leave your campervan parked and securely locked in a guarded parking lot.

Approximate driving time: 4 hours.

Your lodge is located in the heart of Tortuguero National Park.

In the afternoon, you can enjoy the gardens and the pool or visit the Caribbean village of Tortuguero.

Overnight stay with full board at a comfortable lodge in Tortuguero, which has its own nature reserve.

Costa Rica’s Little Amazon!

In the morning or afternoon (time to be confirmed on site), set out to explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park. This vast aquatic park consists entirely of mangrove canals and lagoons nestled in the heart of an impressive jungle, which is why it’s nicknamed the“Amazon of Costa Rica.”

So, it is through this unique and extraordinary network of rivers and marshes in the heart of the jungle that you’ll set out with your guide to discover caimans, toucans, turtles, howler monkeys, parrots, sloths, iguanas, and multicolored birds.

For the rest of the day, you can enjoy the lodge’s pool and trails, or participate in activities organized by the lodge(bookable on-site).

Note: You may have the opportunity to observe turtles laying eggs at night (July through October)—please contact us for details.

Second night on a full-board basis at a comfortable lodge in Tortuguero, which features its own nature reserve.

Off to the lush plains of Sarapiqui! 

Transportation from Tortuguero to Guápiles

In the morning after breakfast, you’ll travel by boat to the Caño Blanco or La Pavona landing, depending on the water level, before continuing by road to Guápiles.

Note: Shared transportation service with lunch included in Guápiles.

Then, once you’ve picked up your camper van, you’ll drive from Guápiles to Sarapiqui.

Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui has been an important river port since colonial times.

Approximate travel time: 1 hour.

Encountering Nocturnal Animals

Discover the region’s wildlife during a nighttime hike. Your naturalist guide will help you spot snakes, spiders, frogs, and other nocturnal species…

Approximate duration: 1.5 hours.

Overnight camping on a typical local farm

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping.

Off to the famous Arenal Volcano!

The road from Sarapiquí to Arenal.

We’ll continue on the road toward the La Fortuna region and the majestic Arenal Volcano (1,650 meters), with its perfectly conical shape.

Approximate travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Along the way, you’ll visit the Asis Foundation.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore the reserve with your guide to learn about each animal and its story. You’ll understand why animal conservation is so important, how it should be done, and what impact you have—all while having fun with your caring guides, who will engage you and help you think about conservation in a new way.

Next, you’ll have the chance to learn how to prepare food for the animals and then serve it to them. You’ll also create fun and enriching activities for them to enhance the daily routine of the Foundation’s residents—the highlight of your visit.

Approximate duration: 3.5 hours.

Overnight stay at a beautiful hotel in Arenal in a luxury bungalow with a view of the volcano

Hike Around the Volcano!

You’ll set out on a hike off the beaten path, accompanied by a local guide, into the heart of the Arenal Volcano countryside. Along the way, you’ll stop at a small waterfall known only to those in the know and completely off the beaten path.

During the hike ,you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the volcano.

A picnic break is planned at the ranch of a local finca.

Approximate duration: 7 hours, including 4 hours of walking; moderate difficulty.

A well-deserved rest in the Arenal hot springs!

At the end of the day,you’ll enjoy a relaxing moment at a hot spring resort offering an intimate setting.

The hot waters come directly from the hot springs of the Arenal Volcano and never come into contact with the magma.

Approximate duration: 3 hours.

Second night in a beautiful hotel in Arenal in a luxury bungalow with a view of the volcano

Discover the Caño Negro Wetlands!

Route from Caño Negro to Arenal Volcano.

Departure for the La Fortuna region and the majestic Arenal Volcano(1,635 meters).

Approximate travel time: 2 hours.

Paddle through the waters of Caño Negro

One of the best ways to feel like you’re truly part of the tropics is to go on a canoe excursion. Enjoy the most iconic landscapes in the heart of the Caño Negro lagoons, surrounded by wildlife and vibrant colors, in a calm and peaceful setting.

During this pleasant journey, you’ll be able to observe a variety of birds, caimans, turtles, iguanas, and many other animals that make this area one of the most important in the Americas due to its exuberant biodiversity.

Approximate duration: 3 hours.

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping.

Overnight stay at an ecolodge that features its own nature reserve.

Explore a local finca, then head to Tenorio!

Get to know and become part of the way of life of many Costa Ricans: discover a farm featuring a mosaic of picturesque landscapes where, every day in their gardens, orchards, and forests, they demonstrate that an environmentally friendly way of life is possible.

On this property, a family combines ecotourism, livestock farming, and environmental conservation, setting an example for others to follow.

Visit the gardens adorned with beautiful orchids, discover the wide variety of tropical fruits, smell the aromas of medicinal plants, and admire the majesty of the tall trees, which are true treasures. Experience the essence of a Costa Rican family dedicated to contributing to environmental conservation.

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Route from Caño Negro to Tenorio.

Depart for Tenorio, a volcanic region in the north of the country, renowned for the Río Celeste and its environment ideal for exploring the flora and fauna of this Costa Rican ecosystem.

Approximate travel time: 1.5 hours

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your vehicle , which is equipped for an overnight camping trip.

Spend the night on an organic cacao farm!

Hop on a horse and discover the Río Celeste!

You’ll set off on a beautiful horseback ride through the forest, along trails that will lead you to the Río Celeste, where you’ll have the chance to take a dip. You’ll also stop along the way for a little thrill-seeking activity.

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping.

Second night at an organic cacao farm!

Half-Day Tubing in Tenorio!

You’ll float down one of the country’s most beautiful rivers with crystal-clear waters and navigate through turbulent rapids. This fun-filled experience offers a unique way to explore this famous river andobserve the surrounding flora and fauna.

A local lunch will be served before or after the activity.

Approximate duration: 3 hours.

Drive from Tenorio toBagaces/Palo Verde.

You’ll head toward Bagaces and then continue on toPalo Verde National Park, where you can spend the night nearby while wild camping.

Approximate drive time: 1 hour.

Overnight wild camping at Rio Piedras de Bagaces near Palo Verde National Park!

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your camper van as you spend the night camping.

A floating safari on the Rio Tempisque in the heart of Palo Verde!

Get ready for a captivating, immersive journey through Palo Verde National Park.

Aboard a boat, you’ll set out to explore this unique wetland, home to an incredible numberof tropical species such as the roseate spoonbill, the legendary jabiru, numerous crocodiles, and capuchin monkeys.

For an hour and a half, you’ll be the explorers of this unique ecosystem. Once back, a traditional Costa Rican buffet will be waiting for you.

In the afternoon, drive from Palo Verde to Rincón de la Vieja

Depart for the province of Guanacaste, home of the Sabaneros—those proud and colorful cowboys.

This province is home to the famous Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Established in 1973, the park is home to a very high concentration of orchids, including the local flower, the “Guaria morada” (Guarianthe Skinneri).

Approximate travel time: 2 hours

Overnight stay at a large hotel in Rincón de la Vieja locatedwithin the national park and offering a wide range of amenities!

While staying at this hotel, you’ll have free access to the Rio Negro hot springs—a complex of hot spring pools located 15 minutes from the hotel—so be sure to take advantage of them!

An incredible hike in the Las Pailas area!

A hike through the heart of Rincon de la Vieja National Park, during which you’ll be accompanied by your local guide along the trails of the Las Pailas (The Furnaces) area.

Throughout the hike, you’ll pass by various volcanic features: waterfalls, solfataras, fumaroles, geysers, and bubbling mud lakes emitting the smell of sulfur. You may have the chance to encounter coatis and howler monkeys and to observe the many birds.

Approximate duration: 3 hours; easy hike.

Drive from Rincón de la Vieja to Playa Hermosa.

Continue on to the beaches of Guanacaste Province

Approximate driving time: 2 hours.

The rest of the day is free to enjoy the region’s beaches and the magnificent sunsets along the Pacific coast.

Overnight stay at a wild campsite in Playa Hermosa

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping on a Pacific beach.

Let’s continue exploring the beaches of Guanacaste!

Route from Playa Hermosa to Playa Flamingo

Approximate travel time: 1 hour.

Stand-up paddleboarding on the Gulf of Papagayo!

You’ll learn to stand on a board similar to a large surfboard. You’ll move around using a long paddle and enjoy the magnificent coastal scenery. Get ready to walk on water!

You’ll take a break during this introductory session to do some snorkeling and see what marine life is hiding beneath your board.

If you’re a beginner, no worries—this activity is perfect for all adventure lovers!

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Note: Equipment and refreshments included.

Overnight wild camping on one of the area’s beaches: Playa Brazilito or Playa Loros

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping on a Pacific beach.

Heading to Samara, the pearl of Guanacaste and a renowned surf spot!

The Road from Playa Flamingo to Samara

We continue our exploration of Guanacaste’s beaches with the seaside resort of Samara!

Then, check in at the hotel near a beautiful white-sand beach—the perfect spot for relaxing or swimming in the turquoise waters of the Pacific.

Approximate travel time: 1.5 hours

Free day to enjoy the beaches and the Samara region.

Please contact us for information on the various must-try activities available locally: surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking (in the ocean or mangroves), horseback riding, yoga… 

Overnight stay at a wild campsite in Playa Carillo orthe option to stay at a private campground.

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping ona Pacific beach.

Set out to sea to encounter the cetaceans of the Pacific!

During this half-day tour, you’ll have the unique opportunity to observe dolphins andother marine mammalsintheir natural habitat. You might even spot sea turtles and the many humpback whales that inhabit the waters off the Pacific coast.

At the end of the tour, equipped with a mask and snorkel, you’ll also explore theregion’s magnificent underwater world.

Approximate duration: 3.5 hours.

Second night of backcountry camping at Playa Carillo, orthe option to stay at a private campground.

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping on a Pacific beach.

Explore the Wild Ora River by Kayak

Enjoy an outdoor adventure as you paddle your kayak through the mangroves. Throughout your tour, you’ll be accompanied by a wide variety of birds and may even spot howler monkeys.

This tour is ideal because it combines the tranquility and beauty of nature.

Approximate duration: 3 hours.

Route from Samara to Santa Teresa.

Today, you’ll leave the beautiful beach resort of Samara to head to the southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula.

Approximate driving time: 4 hours.

Overnight stay at a wild campsite in Playa Mal Pais

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping on a Pacific beach.

Morning dedicated to surfing, followed by a canopy tour in the afternoon!

Zip-line adventure in Mal Pais

You’ll enjoy a spectacular zip-line course through the primary forest,offering stunning views of the jungle!

Approximate duration: 2 hours

Second night of wild camping at Playa Mal Pais

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your camper van as you spend the night camping.

A free day to enjoy the region’s beaches and go surfing!

Please contact us for information on the various water activities you won’t want to miss while you’re here.

Check the tide schedules the day before using an app or by asking locals, and spend your morning or afternoon riding the waves!

Then head from Santa Teresa to Isla Chiquita.

Leave the mainland behind to reach an island at the end of the world.

You’ll drive across the lush Nicoya Peninsula. The final stretch of the road, which is quite hilly, offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Nicoya.

Once you arrive atthe Paquera pier, you can park your camper in a secure parking lot and then board the boat to the island resort.

Approximate drive time: 1.5 hours.

Overnight stay ina luxury tent with a private bathroom onCosta Rica’s only island resort

Includes a guided hike and unlimited use of kayaks and paddles.

We’ve also arranged special treatment at the spa for our guests!

Guided Kayaking and Hiking in the Curú Reserve!

This tour combines two excursions into one day:

A nature hike through the Curú Nature Reserve, and a kayaking excursion to one of the region’s most beautiful and pristine beaches.

The day begins with a kayak trip from Curú Beach to Quesera Beach, where you can swim in the turquoise waters.

You’ll be offered fruit and drinks so you can relax on the sand while enjoying fresh fruit.

The adventure continues with a return to Curú after spending two hours at Quesera Beach, where you’ll arrive just in time to enjoy a casado — a typical Costa Rican meal.

After lunch, you’ll set out on a hike along the trails of the Curú Reserve, accompanied bylocal guides who will show you the plants, animals, and history of the area.

Approximate duration: 5 hours.

Second night in a luxury tent with a private bathroom onCosta Rica’s only island hotel.

Includes a guided hike and unlimited use of kayaks and paddles.

We’ve also arranged special attention at the spa for our guests!

Heading to the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica!

The road from Isla Chiquita to Tarcoles.

You’ll leave this remote island by boat to return to the mainland and your vehicle, then take a ferry from Paquera to cross the Gulf of Nicoya to Tarcoles.

Approximate travel time: 1.5 hours by car and about an hour by ferry.

Note: You’ll take the ferry from Paquera to Puntarenas.

In Tarcoles, you’ll have the opportunity to observe impressive crocodiles —which have thrived in this region—from a bridge.

Note: You can take a floating safari on the Tarcoles River to get as close as possible to these reptiles

Drive from Tarcoles to Parrita.

Set up camp on Parrita Beach, ideally located on a peninsula between Jacó and Manuel Antonio.

Approximate driving time: 1 hour.

Overnight stay in a wild campsite on thevast Parrita Lagoon

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping ona Pacific beach.

Guided Tour ofManuel Antonio National Park !

Head to Manuel Antonio National Park, which combines magnificent beaches with a coral reef and a wide variety of flora and fauna: swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the fine sandy beaches, and take a stroll through the tropical vegetation…

The park is an ideal spot forspotting many animals, such as sloths and squirrel monkeys.

A guide will accompany you on your tour of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Approximate duration: 3 hours

Drive from Manuel Antonio to Dominical.

Continue along the southern Pacific coast.

Approximate travel time: 1 hour.

Overnight camping by the water at a famous hacienda in Dominical.

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping.

Explore the Nauyaca Falls, then head to Uvita!

Set out on a hike to the Cataratas de Nauyaca, one of the country’s most spectacular waterfalls (a famous tourist attraction). To reach the waterfalls, you’ll enjoy a lovely walk through lush vegetation to a canyon about 80 meters wide.

Arrival at the waterfalls, some of which reach 45 meters in height. You’ll then be able to fully enjoy the natural pools for swimming and relaxing while taking in the surrounding nature.

If you’d like, you can also enjoy a half-day hike through the heart of the Barú National Wildlife Refuge. Explore the primary and secondary forests accompanied by a naturalist guide. The area is ideal for observing nearly 300 species of birds. The trails lead to a lookout point near a nesting site for various mangrove-associated bird species.

Approximate duration: 3 hours.

Route from Dominical to Uvita.

You’ll travel along the Pacific coast to your next stop: Uvita.

Approximate driving time: 30 minutes.

Overnight stay at an official campground in Uvita, right on the beach.

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your camper van as you spend the night camping.

Explore Marino Ballena National Park , then head to Golfo Dulce!

Marino Ballena National Park was established to protect the country’s largest coral reef; the park owes its name to the humpback whales that migrate to its warm waters to breed.

You’ll be amazed by the natural shape of the park’s beach, which looks exactly like a whale’s tail!

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Drive from Uvita to Puerto Jiménez.

Departure for the Osa Peninsula and Golfo Dulce, one of Costa Rica’smost exceptional natural sites. This gulf, known as one of the world’s few tropical fjords, is located between Corcovado National Park and Piedras Blancas National Park, making this region abiodiversity hotspot in the country.

Approximate travel time: 3 hours.

At the end of the day, encounter nocturnal animals!

Discover the region’s wildlife on a night hike. Your naturalist guide will help you spot alligators, snakes, spiders, frogs, and other nocturnal species… You’ll end your hike with a campfire to enjoy marshmallows and chat with your guide.

Approximate duration: 1.5 hours.

Overnight stay at a beautiful ecolodge nestled in Corcovado National Park, in the Los Patos sector.

Explore Corcovado National Park, Los Patos Sector!

An early morning departure for a day dedicated to exploring Corcovado National Park, considered the jewel of tropical rainforests.

You’ll hike through the largest tropical rainforest on the Pacific coast of the Americas, passing waterfalls and crystal-clear pools along the trails of Los Patos.

You’ll have the opportunity to spot a wide variety of birds, including the harpy eagle and scarlet macaws. This is also where you’re most likely to spot jaguars and tapirs, especially on the beaches at dusk.

Approximate duration: 8 hours, intermediate level—including 3 hours of transportation through the jungle.

Info: Lunch included (packed lunch).

Overnight stay in a wilderness camp on one of the beaches at the tip of Matapalo.

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your fully equipped vehicle as you spend the night camping ona beach in the Golfo Dulce.

Explore Golfo Dulceby Boat!

Enjoy a half-day of snorkeling in Golfo Dulce, known for its incredible marine life (dolphins, whales, turtles, tropical fish, and more). Your local guide will help you spot the two species of dolphins found in Golfo Dulce: the pantropical spotted dolphin and the bottlenose dolphin.

Approximate duration: 4 hours.

Drive from Puerto Jimenez to Boruca.

Departure for the village of the Borucas, one of Costa Rica’s indigenous communities.

The scenic road leading to the village offers a magnificent view of the Rio Terraba Gorge.

Approximate travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Overnight stay at a wild campsite near the Borucas village

You’ll enjoy all the comforts of your camper van as you spend the night camping.

Meet the Boruca People!

Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll discover the history and culture of the Boruca people. They’re known for their Fiesta de Los Diablitos, as well as for their carved gourds (jicaras) and masks.

You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a demonstration ofthe ancestral art of weaving, as well as a workshop on painting traditional Boruca masks.

You’ll also share lunch with them.

Approximate duration: 4 hours.

Drive from Boruca to San Gerardo de Dota

Depart for San Gerardo de Dota (2,200 meters above sea level), the land of the quetzal.

Check in at your hotel at the bottom of the steep Rio Savegrevalley.

Approximate travel time: 4 hours

Overnight stay at a luxury hotel in Dota, featuring a spa, swimming pool, and private nature reserve.

Your overnight stay includes free access to the Savegre Reserve—be sure to take advantage of it!

Set out in search of the quetzal!

The morning birdsong heralds the start of an unforgettable experience!

The region is home to 170 bird species, some of which are endemic to the area. During the hike, you’ll have the chance to spot the rarest species, includingthe iconic quetzal—a true highlight for any bird enthusiast.

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Second night at a luxury hotel in Dota, featuring a spa, pool, and private nature reserve.

Your overnight stay includes free access to the Savegre Reserve—make the most of it!

Final Moments in Costa Rica!

After enjoying your lodge and its nature reserve one last time, you’ll drive from San Gerardo de Dota to San José.

Set off toward the capital. You’ll cross the Cerro de la Muerte (3,400 meters above sea level), named in memory of the farmers who froze to death while transporting their harvest to San José before the Pan-American Highway was built, and then you’ll reach Cartago, the first city and colonial capital of Costa Rica, founded in 1563 by the Spanish conquistador Juan Vásquez de Coronado, who named it Carthage.

You’ll have the opportunity to visit the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles, named in honor of La Negrita, the country’s patron saint.

Approximate driving time: 2 hours.

Once you arrive in San José, three hours before departure, return your rental car; a transfer will then be provided to ensure you make your connecting international return flight.