We love —
- Exploring Boca Tapada, connecting with local communities and traditions amid untouched nature with your car hire.
- Discovering Monteverde’s cloud forests, crossing hanging bridges and spotting wildlife from monkeys to hummingbirds.
- Enjoying Carrillo’s untouched beaches, immersed in calm waters, breathtaking sunsets, and the charm of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected for our members by our experts
I'm afraid of heights, so I didn't dare cross the suspension bridges in Monteverde, but the scenery was still breathtaking, and the walks were just as magical.
Your itinerary in brief —
A land of adventure and remarkable biodiversity, Costa Rica offers breathtaking landscapes where lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, hidden waterfalls, and pristine beaches come together to create the perfect setting for exploration.
Behind the wheel of your car hire, enjoy the freedom to discover this fascinating country over 9 nights. From the lively capital of San José to the lush jungles of Boca Tapada, from the impressive volcanic scenery of the Arenal region to the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, and finally to the peaceful beaches of Carrillo, each stop reveals a different side of the country’s famous Pura Vida lifestyle.
This immersive itinerary combines unspoiled nature, authentic experiences, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Choose the 10, 12, 14, 16, or 18-night itinerary to enjoy extra time exploring Carrillo and its beautiful beaches, while keeping your car hire for even greater flexibility.
Your itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in San José
Day 2: San José → Boca Tapada
Day 3: Boca Tapada
Day 4: Boca Tapada
Day 5: Boca Tapada → La Fortuna → Monteverde
Day 6: Monteverde
Day 7: Monteverde → Carrillo
Day 8: Carrillo
Day 9: Carrillo
Day 10: Departure from Carillo
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
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 —
Day 1: Arrival in San José
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by one of our local representatives, who will provide all the necessary information and ensure that your journey begins smoothly. You will then depart by private transfer to your first hotel. Check in to your room, settle in and spend a relaxing evening at your hotel, preparing for the adventure to come.
- Transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) to your hotel.
- Overnight in San José.
DAY 2: SAN JOSE → BOCA TAPADA | 74 MILES - 3 HOURS
After breakfast, meet our representative from the car rental agency in the hotel lobby, who will hand over your rental vehicle along with all the information you need for your self-drive adventure. Check out of your hotel and start your adventure with a scenic drive along one of the most picturesque routes in Costa Rica. Leaving San José behind, you will ascend the fertile slopes of the Central Valley toward Poás Volcano National Park, home to one of the largest active craters in the world, surrounded by lush cloud forest. Along the way, a stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens offers the chance to discover beautiful gardens, wildlife, and impressive waterfalls. Continuing toward Vara Blanca, the road winds down to the northern plains, revealing a more remote and untouched side of the country, until you reach Boca Tapada, a hidden paradise on the banks of the San Carlos River.
- Brekafast included.
- Pick up your car hire from the hotel lobby.
- Drive through Poás Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
- Overnight in Boca Tapada.
DAYS 3 & 4: BOCA TAPADA
Wake up to the sounds of the rainforest in the preserved community of Boca Tapada, a region renowned for its lush landscapes and extraordinary biodiversity. This remote corner of northern Costa Rica is the perfect place to slow down, disconnect, and reconnect with nature.
During your stay, you may choose one of the following enriching activities to participate in on either day (to be confirmed upon check-in at the hotel, subject to availability):
- Tortilla-making workshop (40 min): learn how to prepare traditional Costa Rican tortillas and enjoy them fresh from the pan with a cup of local coffee.
- Guided mini walking tour of Boca Tapada (40 min): stroll through the village with a local guide and discover the stories, history, and daily life of this authentic community.
- Plant a Tree, Plant Life (1h): leave a positive mark in Costa Rica by taking part in a reforestation initiative, helping to preserve more than 200 hectares of forest.
Whether through gastronomy, culture, or conservation, Boca Tapada offers a meaningful and memorable connection to the heart of Costa Rica.
- Breakfast included.
- Leisure days in Boca Tapada.
- 1 x activity of your choice on days 3 OR 4 in Boca Tapada: 1-hour Tortilla Making Class, 40-minute Mini Walking Tour of Boca Tapada OR 1-hour Plant a Tree, Plant Life(subject to availability, see description)
- 1 x complimentary 3-course dinner at Boca Tapada Lodge (appetiser, main course, dessert)
- Overnight in Boca Tapada.
Day 5: Boca Tapada → La Fortuna → Monteverde | 124 miles - 4 hours 30 minutes
Today, you’ll drive from Boca Tapada to the enchanting region of Monteverde, travelling through lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Stop in La Fortuna to taste local specialities and, weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano. Savour a hearty lunch at Raúl Castaño, a vibrant café-restaurant blending tropical flavours with local ingredients, an unforgettable introduction to Costa Rican gastronomy. After this scenic and flavorful stop, continue to Monteverde, arriving in the afternoon to settle into your hotel and enjoy the peaceful cloud forest setting.
- Breakfast included.
- Stop in La Fortuna to admire the spectacular Arenal Volcano.
- Lunch at Raúl Castaño included.
- Overnight in Monteverde.
DAY 6: MONTEVERDE
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, set out for a relaxed day exploring the natural wonders of Monteverde at your own pace. Monteverde is a captivating blend of pristine beauty, tranquillity, and thrilling adventure. Soar through the treetops on exciting zip lines, cross breathtaking hanging bridges, and immerse yourself in cultural experiences that reveal the richness of Costa Rican traditions. As night falls, choose to participate in a nocturnal jungle walk to discover the mysterious world of the cloud forest (optional activity). Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Monteverde offers an unforgettable day full of discovery and wonder.
- Breakfast included.
- Leisure day in Monteverde.
- Optional activity: Nocturnal Jungle Walk (available for an extra cost at the next of your booking).
- Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 7: Monteverde → Carrillo | 86 miles - 3 hours
Start the day with a traditional coffee tour at 9:00 am, where you’ll discover the journey of Costa Rican coffee from bean to cup, learning about its cultivation, harvesting, and roasting while enjoying the rich aromas of freshly brewed coffee. Later, leave the misty forests of Monteverde behind and head to the tranquil beaches of Carrillo in Guanacaste Province. This peaceful coastal village, largely untouched by mass tourism, is the perfect retreat for travellers seeking calm, authenticity, and pristine natural beauty. The scenic drive descends from the highlands to the sunny Pacific plains, revealing postcard-worthy landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax on the immaculate beach, take a refreshing swim, or simply soak in the serene surroundings far from the crowds.
- Breakfast included.
- 1 x Traditional Coffee Tour in Monteverde
- Drive to Carillo and discover the coastal village at your own pace.
- Overnight in Carrillo, Guanacaste.
DAYS 8 & 9: CARILLO
Enjoy two days of leisure in Carrillo, a peaceful and unspoiled beach destination ideal for escaping the busy tourist sites. This hidden gem is especially popular with European travellers seeking tranquillity, natural beauty, and an authentic taste of Costa Rican coastal life.
- Breakfast included.
- Leisure days in Carillo.
- Overnight in Carrillo, Guanacaste.
Extend your stay in Carrillo for 1 to 9 extra nights and keep your car hire to explore the region at your own pace. Discover hidden beaches, soak up the sun, and immerse yourself in the relaxed rhythm of coastal life, your perfect escape to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Guanacaste.
DAY 10: DEPARTURE FROM CARILLO | 140 MILES - 4 HOURS
After a final breakfast, drive to your car rental agency in Belén, near SJO Airport. Return your vehicle and complete the necessary formalities. A shared shuttle will then take you from the rental agency to the airport, ensuring a smooth transfer for your departure flight. Say farewell to Costa Rica, taking with you the unforgettable memories of your journey.
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 without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully chosen hotels:
San José: Radisson Hotel San José 4* in an Upgraded Superior Room
Boca Tapada: Boca Tapada Lodge in a Standard Room
Monteverde: El Establo Mountain Hotel 4* in a Deluxe Room
Carrillo, Guanacaste: Nammbú Hotel in a Deluxe Room
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
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Your 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.
Your optional excursions & extras —
Stay connected with an additional 20 GB of mobile internet data
Add an extra 20 GB of internet data to stay connected without exceeding your plan. Activate your eSIM and enjoy connectivity wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with your loved ones, find the best restaurants nearby, and use your GPS with peace of mind.
Please note: 20 GB of internet data represents approximately 250 hours of additional web browsing/audio streaming or 20 to 30 hours of additional video streaming/social media/video calls.
Morning Walk in the Monteverde Biological Reserve
Discover the wonders of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve on a guided morning hike, where expert naturalist guides help you spot rare wildlife and explore one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth.
Guided Suspension Bridges tour
Explore the Monteverde cloud forest from above on a guided walk across scenic hanging bridges, offering a unique perspective of the canopy and its remarkable wildlife.
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.
Your destinations —
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.
