We Love —
- Discovering a country committed to preserving its biodiversity, considered one of the pioneers of environmental protection.
- Relaxing in the hot springs of the Arenal region and lounging on the soft sandy beaches of Tamarindo.
- Travelling in complete freedom with our hire car, and returning to our comfortable accommodation to rest and unwind.
The Pura Vida self-guided tour of Costa Rica is an invitation to discover this natural Eldorado, with its wild landscapes and immensely rich biodiversity. The journey begins in the heart of Costa Rica's mini Amazon, Tortuguero, where between July and September you will have the unique opportunity to observe the migration of sea turtles.
The adventure continues at the foot of Arenal, king of volcanoes. Although these breathtaking eruptions no longer take place, the national park surrounding it is home to a wealth of ecology and hot springs. Third stop: Rincon de la Vieja, renowned as a land of cowboys, where you can opt for a horseback ride. And last but not least: the Pacific coast at Tamarindo, where you can enjoy the pleasures of the ocean.
Your itinerary in brief —
Discover the must-see places of Costa Rica and see its extraordinary landscapes on this 8, 10 or 12-night road trip. Marvel at natural parks and volcanoes, and relax on its idyllic seashores where golden sands meet azure waters.
Choose the length of your stay:
9 days / 8 nights:
- Day 1: Arrive in San José
- Day 2: San José - Tortuguero
- Day 3: Tortuguero - Arenal
- Day 4: Arenal
- Day 5: Arenal - Rincon de la Vieja
- Day 6: Rincon de la Vieja
- Day 7: Rincon de la Vieja - Tamarindo
- Day 8: Tamarindo
- Day 9: Depart Tamarindo
11 days / 10 nights:
- Day 1: Arrive in San José
- Day 2: San José - Tortuguero
- Day 3: Tortuguero
- Day 4: Tortuguero - Arenal
- Day 5: Arenal
- Day 6: Arenal - Rincon de la Vieja
- Day 7: Rincon de la Vieja
- Day 8: Rincon de la Vieja - Tamarindo
- Days 9 & 10: Tamarindo
- Day 11: Depart Tamarindo
13 days / 12 nights:
- Day 1: Arrive in San José
- Day 2: San José - Tortuguero
- Day 3: Tortuguero
- Day 4: Tortuguero - Arenal
- Days 5 & 6: Arenal
- Day 7: Arenal - Rincon de la Vieja
- Day 8: Rincon de la Vieja
- Day 9: Rincon de la Vieja - Tamarindo
- Days 10, 11 and 12: Tamarindo
- Day 13: Depart Tamarindo
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Important note: Passport details are required alongside booking information to secure entry to Tortuguero, ensuring a smooth reservation process.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your itinerary in detail —
Offer 1: 8 night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN SAN JOSÉ
- A local representative will meet you at San José Airport and accompany you to your shared transfer.
- Check in at your hotel in the city centre.
Overnight stay in San José.
DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ - TORTUGUERO (4 hrs drive and 1 hour by boat)
- Begin your adventure at first light with an early departure and meeting point at your hotel reception for a semi-collective transfer.
- Travel towards Tortuguero, a remote gem on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast, famed for its role in protecting endangered sea turtles since 1970.
- Journey through a maze of canals, rivers and lagoons, an extraordinary ecosystem that reveals the complex biology of tropical forests and marine life.
- Stop in the town of Guápiles to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a local restaurant, offering a taste of authentic regional flavours.
- Continue on to the quay and board your boat, gliding into the rainforest as the scenery transforms into a symphony of green.
- As you navigate the waterways, marvel at the pristine natural surroundings, an unforgettable prelude to the wonders of Tortuguero National Park.
- You’ll then arrive at the lodge, settle into your room and enjoy a delicious lunch.
- In the afternoon, meet your guide for a visit to the charming town of Tortuguero. With around 500 inhabitants and no cars, this vibrant village is set on a narrow strip of land between the beach and a canal.
Note: The order of activities in Tortuguero may vary depending on hotel operations.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Overnight stay in Tortuguero.
DAY 3: TORTUGUERO - ARENAL (1h30 by boat and 2h30 by road)
- Rise early and join your guide for an unforgettable sunrise boat tour through the majestic canals of Tortuguero National Park, where the jungle slowly awakens around you.
- Capture the best photographs as you glide through a network of waterways, lagoons and dense rainforest, all brought to life by an expert naturalist guide.
- Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s abundant wildlife, home to 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals.
- Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and one last breath of jungle air before your departure.
- Travel by boat and road back to Guápiles and enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch in a local restaurant.
- Meet the car hire representative and collect your vehicle, along with all the essential information for the next part of your self-drive adventure.
- Continue your journey towards La Fortuna de San Carlos, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano.
- Once one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world until 2010, Arenal no longer erupts with lava, but you may still witness wisps of smoke or ash rising from its summit.
- Upon arrival, settle into your hotel room and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing in the hotel’s facilities.
Breakfast & lunch included.
Overnight stay in Arenal.
DAY 4: ARENAL
- Spend the day relaxing at the hotel, or, for the more adventurous, set off to explore the wonders of Arenal, we suggest:
- Hikking the lava trails of Arenal Volcano National Park, discovering the stunning La Fortuna waterfall, getting your adrenaline pumping in the rapids of the Balsa River while admiring the magnificent vegetation or soar over the treetops on a zip-line adventure (optional, extra charge).
Breakfast included.
Overnight stay in Arenal.
- Drive to your next destination, the Rincón de la Vieja volcano region, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the province of Guanacaste. This area is home to a rich variety of exotic plants and wildlife including pumas, monkeys, sloths, tapirs and jaguars.
- Spot rare emerald toucans and blue-crowned motmots sparkling in the sunlight, and you admire the profusion of vibrant orchids that bloom in the area.
Overnight stay in Rincón de la Vieja.
Breakfast included.
DAY 6: RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA
- Enjoy spending the day at leisure, exploring the rainforest.
- Many optional adventure activities are available at the hotel (at an additional cost).
Overnight stay in Rincón de la Vieja.
Breakfast included.
DAY 7: RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA - TAMARINDO (2h drive)
- Continue to Tamarindo beach on the northern Pacific coast. Tamarindo is the most developed beach on the vibrant Nicoya Peninsula and one of Costa Rica's best-known surf spots.
- Check in at your hotel.
Overnight stay in Tamarindo.
Breakfast included.
DAY 8: TAMARINDO
- Enjoy a free day in Tamarindo.
Overnight stay in Tamarindo.
Breakfast included.
- After a last breakfast at your Tamarindo hotel, head to the car rental office near Juan Santamaría International Airport to return your car hire.
- A shared shuttle will then take you to the airport for your return flight *.
* Please note: We recommend booking a departure flight after 1pm.
Offer 2: 10 night tour
DAYS 1 - 2:
- Similar to Days 1 - 2 of the 8-night tour.
DAY 3: TORTUGUERO
- Meet your guide for an early morning nature walk along the lodge's private trails and learn about the flora and fauna that live in this magical place.
- Return to the lodge for breakfast.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Overnight stay in Tortuguero.
DAY 4: TORTUGUERO - ARENAL (1h30 by boat and 2h30 by road)
- After breakfast, departure and preparation for the rest of the journey.
- Shared transfer by boat and overland from Tortuguero to the restaurant in Guápiles, where you will enjoy a traditional lunch.
- You will then meet the car hire representative to obtain your hire car and all the information you need for your trip, or you will meet the transport service to continue your journey in a shared transfer to your next destination: La Fortuna de San Carlos, home to the amazing Arenal volcano.
- On arrival, make yourself comfortable in your hotel room and enjoy some free time to relax in the hotel's facilities.
Breakfast & lunch included.
Overnight in Arenal.
DAY 5: ARENAL
- Day at leisure to relax or explore the surroundings on your own.
- If you're looking for adventure, the Arenal and La Fortuna region offers plenty of options for activities and places to discover. We suggest:
- Hikking the lava trails of Arenal Volcano National Park, discovering the stunning La Fortuna waterfall, getting a shot of adrenaline flying above the tree canopy on a zip-line adventure and much more.
Breakfast included.
Overnight in Arenal.
DAY 6: ARENAL - RINCON DE LA VIEJA (3h drive)
- At the agreed time, departure by car for your next destination, the Rincón de la Vieja volcano region, one of the most beautiful landscapes and one of the greatest ecological riches in the province of Guanacaste.
- During your stay, we suggest exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park on your own or enjoy the hotel's activities.
Breakfast included.
Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.
DAY 7: RINCON DE LA VIEJA
- Day at leisure to enjoy the rainforest and all its treasures: waterfalls, hot springs and optional adventure activities at an additional cost.
Breakfast included.
Night in Rincón de la Vieja.
DAY 8: RINCON DE LA VIEJA - TAMARINDO (2h drive)
- Continue your journey to Tamarindo beach, located on the northern Pacific coast. Tamarindo is the most developed beach on the vibrant Nicoya Peninsula and one of Costa Rica's best-known surf spots. Tamarindo beach is also adventure country and offers the serenity of a tropical getaway.
- Check in to the hotel and immediately get into the pleasant beach atmosphere.
Breakfast included.
Overnight in Tamarindo.
- Spend these two free days however you choose. Seek out adventure or relax on the beach, as energies permit.
Overnight stay in Tamarindo.
Breakfast included.
DAY 11: DEPART TAMARINDO (4.5 hours drive)
- Enjoy a final breakfast before setting off in the direction of Juan Santamaría International Airport to return your car hire.
- A shared shuttle will then take you to the airport for your return flight *.
* Please note: We recommend booking a departure flight after 1pm.
Offer 3: 12 night tour
DAYS 1 - 4:
- Similar to the 10-night itinerary.
DAYS 5 - 6: ARENAL
- Today you will have plenty of time to relax at the hotel, or head out to explore Arenal.
- If you are looking for adventure, Arenal and La Fortuna region offers you numerous options of activities and places to discover, we suggest:
- Takking a hike to the lava trails at the Arenal Volcano National Park; uncovering the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, experiencing a good dose of adrenaline flying over the treetop canopy on a Zipline adventure and much more.
Overnight stay in Arenal.
Breakfast included.
DAY 7: ARENAL - RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA (3 hours drive)
- Set off in your car hire to your next destination, the region around the Rincon de la Vieja volcano.
Breakfast included.
Overnight stay in Liberia.
- Enjoy the day at your leisure to explore the rainforest
Overnight stay in Liberia.
Breakfast included.
DAY 9: RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA - TAMARINDO (2 hours drive)
- Continue your journey to Tamarindo Beach, located on the northern Pacific coast on the vibrant Nicoya Peninsula and one of Costa Rica's best-known surf spots.
- Check in to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Tamarindo.
Breakfast included.
- Make the most of your free days in Tamarindo.
Breakfast included.
Overnight stay in Tamarindo.
DAY 13: DEPART TAMARINDO (4.5 hours drive)
- After a final breakfast at your hotel in Tamarindo, it will be time to head to the car hire office near Juan Santamaría International Airport to return your car hire.
- A shared shuttle will then take you to the airport for your return flight *.
* Please note: We recommend booking a departure flight after 1pm.
Important information about your tour and visits The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change. Please note: Passport details are required alongside booking information to secure entry to Tortuguero, ensuring a smooth reservation process.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
Enjoy some R&R at every stage of your adventure in comfortable rooms in carefully selected hotels.
"Superior" category accommodation (or similar):
- San José : D'Sabana
- Tortuguero: Evergreen Lodge
- Arenal: Mountain Paradise
- Rincón de la Vieja: Hacienda Guachipelin
- Tamarindo : Tamarindo Diria
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximum room capacity: 3 adults OR 2 adults + 1 child. Single rooms available at extra cost.
Your dining choices
This offer is based on a bed and breakfast stay, except in Tortuguero, where you will enjoy a full-board stay. Your breakfast, lunch and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
Included extras —
3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.
Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.
Optional excursions —
Hiking along the Rivière Celeste and Tenorio National Park
Hike through the rainforest of Tenorio National Park and discover the spectacular beauty of the Celeste River, with its turquoise waters, magical waterfall and thermal springs. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, from the Tenorio volcano to the ‘Teñideros’, and end the excursion with a delicious lunch.
Arenal volcano hike and lake cruise
Explore the Arenal volcano with a panoramic hike followed by a cruise on Lake Arenal, offering incredible views of this natural colossus and its surroundings. Enjoy an unforgettable combination of nature, history and observation of the local wildlife.
Equestrian and Cultural Adventure at La Fortuna Waterfall
Ride through the Arenal rainforest to the La Fortuna waterfall for a refreshing swim. Then discover the indigenous Maleku culture and finish off with a tropical snack.
Bird Observation
Ama Extreme: Zip Line Over the La Fortuna Waterfall
Discover Ama Extreme, the longest and highest zip line over the La Fortuna Waterfall, for an adrenaline-packed adventure with breathtaking views. Cross seven canopy lines, soar over a 120-metre canyon, and glide at 70 km/h along a 980-metre zip line, all while being guided by safety experts.
Historical Walk at Mistico Park
Explore the tropical rainforest of Mistico Park with expert guides who will unveil its secrets and unique wildlife. Observe the biodiversity from the canopy to the forest floor and discover the fascinating interactions within the ecosystems.
One Day Adventure Pass
Enjoy a full day of adventure with the One Day Pass, including canopy tours, tubing, hot springs, Rio Negro, horseback riding, and lunch.
Optional services —
Comprehensive insurance for your hire car
For more peace of mind, opt for the supplement to have comprehensive insurance for your hire car.
Your journey to Costa Rica —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Car hire:
This package includes car hire, granting you autonomy to explore new horizons at your own pace! Embrace spontaneity as you journey through diverse landscapes, whether it's a scenic coastal drive, an adventure through rugged mountains, or a leisurely tour of charming towns. Renting a car empowers you to tailor your road trip experience to your preferences, turning each twist and turn of the road into a thrilling adventure. Important information if you are planning to book your own flights: In order to organise the pick-up of your vehicle at the airport, please inform us of your flight times within 48 hours of your booking by filling in the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, you will not be able to collect your vehicle.
Conditions for your hire car:
The offer includes type Volkswagen T-Cross - 3/4 persons (or similar) for offers in standard accommodation or Toyota Rav4 for 4/5 persons (or similar) for offers in superior accommodation from day 3 (8 nights programme) or 4 (10 and 12 nights programme) until the last day (see description), including basic insurance.
Vehicle type for the programme:
- Standard: Volkswagen T-Cross for 3-4 persons
- Superior: Toyota Rav4 for 4-5 persons
Maximum capacity per car: 4-5 people depending on category
Minimum age: 21 years
Minimum duration and validity of driving licence: The driving licence must be valid only at the time of presentation.
Passport: 6 months before the expiry date
Credit card (VISA or MASTERCARD or AMERICAN EXPRESS type): The credit card must be the driver's card.
Debit cards are not accepted.
Meeting point for picking up the car:
On day 3 (programme with 8 nights) or day 4 (programmes with 10 and 12 nights): At the restaurant located in Guápiles where guests will have their lunch. Around 1pm. The representative will arrive at the restaurant to drop off the car.
Instructions for the return:
On the last day of the programme, you will drive to the car rental office in Belén, near Juan Santamaría International Airport, to return the vehicle. From the car hire office, you will then be taken to the airport in a shared shuttle.
Your destination —
Costa Rica
Nestled in Central America, Costa Rica is a haven for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its motto La Pura Vida (the pure life), the country charms visitors with its lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Offering a blend of adventure and tranquillity, Costa Rica invites you to discover its natural treasures.
Must-see:
- Arenal Volcano: Experience hot springs and dramatic volcanic scenery.
- Guanacaste: This a sun-drenched province in Costa Rica, is renowned for its golden beaches, biodiverse dry forests, and serene volcanic landscapes, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Manuel Antonio National Park: Compact yet teeming with wildlife, it’s a perfect blend of beaches and trails.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest: A mist-laden paradise, home to rare flora and fauna.
Culinary Culture:
Costa Rican cuisine emphasises freshness and simplicity. Staples include gallo pinto, a breakfast dish of rice and beans, and casado, a hearty meal of protein, rice, and salad. Don't miss a cup of locally grown coffee, often paired with traditional pastries such as tamal asado. Tropical fruits like guava and rambutan are abundant and a must-try.
Dive Deeper:
For those keen to explore off the beaten path, visit the Nicoya Peninsula, part of a Blue Zone renowned for longevity. Learn about Costa Rica’s indigenous cultures, such as the Bribri, who excel in sustainable farming and chocolate-making traditions. Adventure-seekers can traverse less-travelled trails in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, with its bubbling mud pools and waterfalls.
Good to Know:
The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), though US dollars are widely accepted. The dry season (December to April) is ideal for travel, but the green season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Getting around is easiest by rental car or domestic flights for remote regions.
