We Love —
- Setting off on a road trip through Costa Rica and exploring its stunning landscapes in complete freedom.
- Trying some of the very many activities available in Arenal, from zip lines through the tree canopy to bathing in the natural hot springs.
- Travelling in complete freedom with our hire car, and returning to our comfortable accommodation to rest and unwind.
Customer reviews —
Your itinerary in brief —
Discover the must-see places of Costa Rica and see its extraordinary landscapes on this 9, 12 or 14 night road trip of Costa Rica. 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 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 - Carillo Beach
- Days 8 & 9: Carillo Beach
- Day 10: Carillo Beach - Depart San José
12 or 14 nights
By opting for a 12 or 14 night stay, you'll extend your journey with 3 or 5 extra nights in Manuel Antonio at the end of the road trip.
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: ARRIVE IN SAN JOSÉ
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN SAN JOSÉ
Arrive in San José, where lush mountains and vibrant city life set the stage for adventure. A shared transfer will take you to your hotel—unwind and embrace the warm "Pura Vida" spirit. Rest up, as tomorrow, the wild heart of Costa Rica awaits.
- Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport
- Shared transfer to the hotel
- Night at Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica 4*
DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ - TORTUGUERO
Rise early for a scenic transfer through misty rainforests and banana plantations en route to Tortuguero, one of Costa Rica’s most pristine national parks. Stop in Guápiles for a traditional breakfast before boarding a boat that winds through emerald waterways, offering glimpses of toucans, monkeys, and caimans. After a hearty lunch at your lodge, visit the colourful, car-free village of Tortuguero and soak in its unique Caribbean charm.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Depart to Tortuguero, with an en route stop in Guápiles
- Visit Tortuguero Village
- Night at Evergreen Lodge
DAY 3 : TORTUGUERO - ARENAL
Wake before dawn for a magical boat tour through Tortuguero’s jungle-cloaked canals, where howler monkeys call and river turtles bask in the early light. After breakfast, begin your journey towards Arenal, pausing for a leisurely lunch in Guápiles before heading deeper into Costa Rica’s volcanic heartland. Check into your hotel near Arenal Volcano and unwind with views of its majestic peak.
- Breakfast included
- Visit Tortuguero National Park
- Depart to Arenal & pick up your car hire
- Night at Hotel Lomas del Volcan
DAY 4: ARENAL
Walk among the clouds at Místico Park, where suspension bridges weave through the lush canopy. Watch for toucans, sloths, and dazzling butterflies as your guide unveils the rainforest’s secrets. The rest of the day is yours—perhaps a dip in the region’s famous hot springs?
- Breakfast included
- Hanging bridge walk in Mistico Park
- Night at Hotel Lomas del Volcan
DAY 5: ARENAL - RINCON DE LA VIEJA
Hit the road towards the rugged landscapes of Rincón de la Vieja, a geothermal wonderland of bubbling mud pools, hidden waterfalls, and dense jungle. This vast national park shelters rare wildlife, from elusive pumas to vibrant toucans. Check into your lodge and let the sounds of nature lull you into relaxation.
- Breakfast included
- Drive to Rincon de la Vieja
- Night at Hacienda Guachipelin
DAY 6: RINCON DE LA VIEJA
Today is yours to uncover the raw beauty of this region—hike to hidden waterfalls, ride horseback across the savanna, or rejuvenate in volcanic mud baths. With its diverse ecosystems and dramatic landscapes, Rincón de la Vieja is a playground for nature lovers.
- Breakfast included
- Free day
- Night at Hacienda Guachipelin
DAY 7: RINCON DE LA VIEJA - CARILLO BEACH
Leave the rugged volcanoes behind and head to the pristine shores of Carrillo Beach. With its swaying palms, golden sands, and turquoise waters, this is the perfect place to slow down. The rest of the day is for pure relaxation—dip into the ocean, sip on a fresh coconut, and let the coastal charm take over.
- Breakfast included
- Drive to Carillo Beach
- Night at Nammbú
DAYS 8 & 9: CARILLO BEACH
Wake up to the sound of waves and spend your days however you please—lounging under the sun, paddleboarding along the bay, or snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. For the adventurous, nearby Samara offers surfing, kayaking, and dolphin-watching tours. Evenings are best spent with a sunset cocktail, toasting to pura vida.
- Breakfast included
- Free days
- Night at Nammbú
DAY 10: CARILLO BEACH - DEPART SAN JOSÉ
Bid farewell to the land of volcanoes, beaches, and rainforests as you transfer back to San José for your departing flight. The memories of Costa Rica’s wild beauty will stay with you long after you leave.
- Breakfast included
- Drop off your car hire
- Transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport
12 OR 14 NIGHT STAY:
If you opt for a 12 or 14 night stay, you'll continue your journey to Manuel Antonio, where rainforest meets the ocean in a spectacular display of biodiversity. Drop off your rental car and settle into your beachside retreat, with time to enjoy the golden sands or explore the nearby national park.
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 hotels:
- San Jose: Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica 4*
- Tortuguero: Evergreen Lodge
- Arenal: Hotel Lomas del Volcan
- Rincon de la Vieja: Hacienda Guachipelin
- Carillo: Nammbú
- Manuel Antonio: Parador Resort & Spa Hotel 4*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Your dining choices
This offer is based on a Bed and Breakfast stay except for in Tortuguero where you will enjoy an included lunch and dinner (excluding drinks).On day 3, you'll once again savour Costa Rican cuisine with lunch (drinks not included).
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 extras & excursions —
Additional 2GB of mobile data
Choose an additional 2GB and stay connected on the go. Share your data via your hotspot, have easy access to maps, or find the best local spots to eat. Perfect for modern travellers who value effortless connectivity, without worrying about roaming charges. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible here.
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.
Kayak Trip to Damas Island
Explore the beautiful mangroves of Costa Rica on a kayak trip to Damas Island. Paddle beneath a lush canopy while observing a variety of birds, reptiles, and monkeys, accompanied by an expert guide.
Visit to Manuel Antonio National Park
Catamaran Cruise
Optional services —
Optional upgrade to full coverage car insurance
Enhance your holiday experience with convenient car hire and the peace of mind of extra car hire insurance cover.
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 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 Highlights:
- 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.
