My 1 Week Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary for 2024

Because the nation that sparked my wanderlust, Costa Rica will all the time have a particular place in my coronary heart. The luxurious jungles, the beautiful waterfalls, the unimaginable wildlife, and the tremendous pleasant locals who’ve a love for love – it’s all simply nice. Costa Rica a gorgeous, stunning nation.

It’s also a perfect destination to road trip. Since distances aren’t too lengthy, you possibly can simply get an excellent really feel for a few of the fundamental areas within the nation in a single week. (In the event you’ve received extra time, nice! You may lengthen your stays in locations and even add on extra locations. I’ll share a couple of suggestions on the finish).

However, even with simply seven days, you possibly can cowl a variety of floor. The liberty of getting your individual wheels signifies that you gained’t be beholden to bus schedules or find yourself forking out some huge cash for costly vacationer shuttles. Which means you’ll save each money and time.

That will help you plan your journey, right here’s my splendid one-week Costa Rica highway journey itinerary:

The place to Hire a Automobile in Costa Rica

My go-to rental automotive firm in Costa Rica is Vamos. They permit extra drivers for no additional price, have nice buyer companies, and their costs are affordable.

You can click here to get a quote. (You’ll get 5% off through the use of that hyperlink too!).

If Vamos doesn’t have what you’re searching for, attempt Discover Cars. They examine costs from 1000’s of corporations that can assist you discover the most effective deal. You need to use the widget beneath to discover a deal:

When you get a automotive, take images and video of any scratches or dents. That manner you’ve got proof proving you didn’t trigger them ought to the automotive rental firm ask (they normally gained’t but it surely’s all the time higher to be ready).
 

Days 1–2: San Jose

You’ll seemingly be flying out and in of the capital, San Jose. Which means you possibly can return your rental automotive to the identical location if you fly dwelling (which is cheaper than dropping it off some place else). Many individuals skip proper over the capital, opting to only keep in a single day and head out the following morning to greener pastures however I feel it’s price two nights. All of the nation’s greatest museums are right here, so you possibly can study the historical past of the nation earlier than embarking onwards. That mentioned, relying on when your flight arrives, you possibly can simply do one evening right here and add extra time some place else.

Issues to do in San José:

• Go to the Costa Rican Nationwide Museum – In the event you solely go to one museum within the metropolis, make it this one. Housed within the fortress that was dwelling to the (now defunct) Costa Rican navy, the everlasting exhibition traces Costa Rican historical past from Pre-Columbian instances to the current day. It’s in-depth and intensely properly accomplished, with bilingual explanations.
• Admire Costa Rica’s artwork – The Museum of Costa Rican Artwork is a small museum that provides a wide range of everlasting and momentary exhibitions of nationwide and worldwide artists. In the event you’re into modern artwork, don’t miss the Museum of Up to date Artwork and Design (MADC), the place you possibly can see the work of cutting-edge Costa Rican and Central American artists.
• Go to the markets – The Central Market and The Municipal Crafts Market are good locations to purchase souvenirs and browse colourful market stalls. Plus, you possibly can take a look at the native meals scene on the Central Market (or take a guided tour for a extra in-depth expertise).
• Take a free strolling tour – If you wish to study extra in regards to the historical past of San Jose whereas taking within the sights, take a free strolling tour. You’ll hear all about “ticos” tradition (a time period used to explain native Costa Ricans), go to some secret spots the place the locals hang around, and see some road artwork alongside the best way. San José Free Walking Tour is the principle operator — simply don’t overlook to tip your information on the finish!

For extra issues to see and do, here’s my free travel guide to San Jose.

WHERE TO STAY:

• Selina San Jose: This upscale hostel is in an awesome location between key neighborhoods. It hosts a variety of cool occasions, there are dorms and personal rooms, and there’s a restaurant on-site too.
• Auténtico Hotel: This laidback lodge has a gorgeous pool, brilliant rooms, and useful workers. I used to remain right here with our teams once I ran excursions in Costa Rica. Everybody cherished it!

For extra lodging options, here are my favorite hostels in San Jose!
 

Days 3: La Fortuna / Arenal

After you’ve explored the capital, it’s time to drive three hours to the city of La Fortuna (be certain to cease at La Paz Waterfall Gardens on the best way). The city sits within the shadow of Arenal, Costa Rica’s most iconic volcano. The world has tons of actions, and on the finish of an lively day, there’s nothing higher than having fun with the sundown views over the lake.

La Fortuna is likely one of the nation’s hottest locations (with larger costs that match its recognition). Regardless of that, it’s nonetheless one in all my favorite places in the country. Simply don’t get lost in the jungle like me!

Issues to do in La Fortuna:

• Hike in Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park – This huge nationwide park spans 121 sq. kilometers (46 sq. miles) and is dwelling to each Arenal Volcano in addition to the inactive Chato Volcano that final erupted 1000’s of years in the past. The nationwide park has limitless mountain climbing trails, together with the aptly named Lava Movement Path, the place you possibly can hike the lava flows from the devastating 1968 eruption of Arenal.
• Swim on the base of La Fortuna waterfall – This beautiful waterfall is big, dropping nearly 75 meters (250 toes) into a giant pool of water at its base. Swimming within the chilly water is tremendous refreshing after spending a while mountain climbing within the scorching solar. Be sure to have sturdy footwear because the stroll down the steep, lengthy staircase can get slippery.
• Calm down within the well-known scorching springs – Due to all of the geothermal exercise within the space, there are a variety of scorching springs right here. They vary in value and high quality, from free all the best way as much as $89 USD at Tabacón Resort. You may also take a packed day tour that features scorching springs, mountain climbing round Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna waterfall, and having fun with a standard lunch on the Maleku indigenous reserve.
• Take a bird-watching tour – This space is likely one of the greatest within the nation for chicken watching, with nearly all of Costa Rica’s 900 species of birds represented right here. It’s all the time greatest to go together with an skilled native information as you’ll see many extra birds that manner (they know the place particular species of birds like to hang around and might level out camouflaged birds).
• Do some journey actions – This space is likely one of the nation’s scorching spots for adrenaline actions. Some examples of issues you are able to do embrace canyoning, white-water rafting, and zip-lining, or when you’ve got the time (and cash, as these actions are expensive) do all of them!

WHERE TO STAY:

• Selina La Fortuna: Selina’s La Fortuna location is a complete complicated that includes an out of doors pool, trendy non-public rooms, a poolside restaurant, and plenty of organized actions (together with health and yoga lessons). It’s strolling distance from the whole lot too.
• Hotel Arenal Rabfer: This lodge presents a pleasant pool, clear rooms with little balconies, and an awesome complimentary breakfast on the café subsequent door.

For extra issues to see and do, take a look at my free travel guide to Arenal here.
 

Days 4: Monteverde

Roughly a 3.5-hour drive away, Monteverde is one in all my favourite locations in Costa Rica. The whole space is roofed in a lush cloud forest that simply feels magical. The tropical forest is shrouded in mist — fairly actually, as they’re within the clouds. As a result of it’s always so moist, Monteverde is extremely biodiverse. Naturally, it’s one of many largest eco-tourism hubs within the nation, with birders flocking right here to identify the elusive quetzal chicken with its beautiful emerald and ruby purple plumage. There are a variety of journey actions right here too. (A few of the greatest espresso I ever had in my life was from right here.)

Issues to do in Monteverde:

• Hike within the cloud forest – There are a number of sections of the cloud forest which might be open to guests: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, and the Kids’s Everlasting Rainforest. All are nice, with trails which might be fairly straightforward, well-marked, and well-maintained. In the event you actually need to see wildlife, it’s greatest to go with a guide who can present you animals and birds hidden within the dense cover.
• Take a night tour of the forest – This can be a cool option to see a unique aspect of the jungle. Your information will level out all of the nocturnal animals (together with tarantulas and armadillos), bugs, and crops that you’d by no means be capable of discover by yourself in the dead of night!
• Go zip lining – The longest zip line within the nation might be discovered right here (it’s a complete mile lengthy)! Gliding via the cover is a singular option to see the jungle from a unique perspective. In the event you’re an adrenaline junkie, don’t miss this!
• Walk the hanging bridges – If zip lining isn’t precisely your pace, you possibly can safely stroll hanging suspension bridges which might be constructed via the higher layer of the cover. It’ll offer you a view off the forest ground with out having to swing via it.
• Take a espresso tour – Monteverde is legendary for its manufacturing of artisanal, natural, and sustainable espresso. Take a tour to study each stage of the method, from seed germination to roasting. There are a couple of completely different excursions right here, however the one one devoted fully to espresso is the Café Monteverde Farm & Roastery Tour. It’s actually attention-grabbing and academic, even when (like me) you’re not a espresso drinker.

WHERE TO STAY:

• Selina Monteverde: This Selina location is actually subsequent to the cloud forest. It’s a gorgeous and tranquil location set within the bushes with enjoyable actions, a lush interior courtyard with scorching tubs, and a separate co-working space.
• Monteverde Villa Lodge: This quiet lodge is inside strolling distance to the city, providing complimentary breakfast and comfortable rooms which have their very own out of doors seating space.

For extra issues to see and do, check out my travel guide to Monteverde here.
 

Days 5–6: Manuel Antonio

Drive about 3.5-4 hours to Manuel Antonio, stopping on the best way on the Tarcoles River Bridge to see crocodiles (simply don’t feed them). Manuel Antonio is a well-liked seashore vacation spot on the Pacific coast, identified for its white-sand seashores, heat blue waters, and wildlife (particularly sloths and monkeys). Whereas tourism has picked up right here lately, it’s nonetheless largely a lazy city the place the principle actions are lounging within the sand by day and having fun with a beachside cocktail by night (you get epic sunsets right here).

Issues to Do in Manuel Antonio:

• Go to Manuel Antonio Nationwide Park – Spanning 1,980 hectares (4,900 acres), this park combines wealthy rainforest and picturesque seashores. Stroll the paths and boardwalks to see loads of capuchins, sloths, basilisk lizards, iguanas, and squirrel monkeys. The perfect seashores are within the park so don’t miss a go to right here. There’s a cap on how many individuals can go to, so you should definitely get your tickets on-line prematurely or go with a guided tour.
• Lounge on the seashore – In addition to the seashores within the park, there’s additionally Playa Espadilla, an extended stretch of seashore that abuts the small city. It’s the proper place to loosen up with a e book, and it’s simply steps away from all of the city’s fundamental eateries.
• Be taught to surf – There are tons of surf faculties that arrange store proper alongside Playa Espadilla. You may pay for a one-off lesson or board rental proper on the seashore or enroll in a surf faculty should you’re searching for one thing extra complete.
• Take a mangrove tour – Hop on a ship to discover the protected mangrove channels round Damas Island, dwelling to white-faced monkeys, crocodiles, spectacled caimans, boa constrictors, crab-eating raccoons, and pygmy anteaters. You may also take a kayak tour to get even nearer to this distinctive setting.

WHERE TO STAY:

• Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio: This chill nature lodge presents easy however clear dorms, non-public rooms, and full flats inside strolling distance of the small city, the seashore, and the nationwide park.
• Teva Jungle Hotel and Hostel: An eco lodge set proper subsequent to the forest, they provide non-public mountain climbing trails, a pool with poolside bar, permaculture gardens, a shared kitchen, and a very good restaurant.

For extra issues to see and do, check out my travel guide to Manuel Antonio here.
 

Day 7: Head again to San Jose

Depart Manuel Antonio within the early morning to drive again to San José. It’s a couple of 4.5-hour drive, however plan for extra relying on visitors. If you’re caught in visitors or are delayed for any motive, contact your rental automotive firm to keep away from a penalty.

Earlier than you come back the automotive, ensure that your gas gauge is on the proper degree, or else head to a gasoline station earlier than you drop it off. The corporate’s consultant will examine your automobile with you after which course of the deposit reimbursement.
 

8 Costa Rica Street Journey Suggestions

1. Perceive automotive rental insurance coverage
Costa Rica has obligatory third-party insurance coverage for automotive leases, so test that this price is included in your rental quote. It’s usually unnoticed, that means you possibly can be shocked by the invoice on the finish.

It’s additionally legally required to have a collision injury waiver (CDW) that covers losses from injury to your rental automotive. Most corporations supply completely different tiers of insurance coverage, with numerous deductibles. Many renters choose full protection for peace of thoughts, so any injury is roofed. Some corporations supply extra protection for tires and the windshield, as they don’t seem to be all the time lined by the CDW.

In case your bank card or journey insurance coverage (which I all the time advocate getting) has a CDW as a perk, you possibly can waive the in-house CDW. You’ll have to carry a letter that explicitly states the quantity of protection, that Costa Rica is included within the areas lined, and the final 4 digits of the driving force’s bank card. A duplicate of the bank card firm’s phrases and circumstances isn’t normally enough.

Both manner, ensure you have enough protection!

2. Select the best automobile
In the event you’re highway tripping Costa Rica, take into account getting a 4×4 for simpler navigation on unpaved roads. You gained’t want it for all roads, however if you wish to ensure you can go anyplace, go for a 4×4. You may search by automobile kind at my go-to rental automotive firm in Costa Rica, Vamos. You can click here to get a quote. (You’ll get 5% off simply through the use of that hyperlink).

3. Use Waze for navigation
Use the Waze app reasonably than Google Maps, which isn’t all the time correct and underestimates journey instances. Waze is up to date in actual time by an enthusiastic group of volunteers, so that you’re conscious of accidents or different conditions that will have an effect on your journey time.

Plus, bear in mind that when asking for instructions, nearly all locals give instructions utilizing landmarks reasonably than highway numbers.

4. Convey a paper map
It’s a good suggestion to have an offline map downloaded to your telephone, or a bodily map as a backup. Cell service might be spotty in distant areas, so it’s greatest to be ready.

5. Control climate circumstances
Climate in Costa Rica can change quickly, particularly throughout the wet season and within the mountains. Some roads could grow to be difficult to navigate, with restricted visibility. Do your greatest to keep away from driving in poor climate, however should you do find yourself in a storm, pull over in a secure space (a roadside soda or native restaurant is all the time an excellent wager) and wait to see if circumstances enhance.

6. Add in time for scenic stops
I do know a variety of vacationers like to actually plan out their routes and itineraries. When you’ve got restricted time, it may be tempting to plan the whole lot to a T (I get it, I used to do that rather a lot). Nonetheless, there are many diversions to discover in Costa Rica, whether or not it’s a cool hidden mountain climbing spot or a scenic vista, full with volcanoes. Plus, you don’t need to rush driving on the windy roads right here. Don’t rush, and be open to modifications. You gained’t remorse it.

7. Be aware the place you park
Wherever potential, park in safe parking heaps, and don’t depart valuables in an unattended automobile as break-ins can happen. On an identical observe, it’s unlawful to park on the seashore. That is to guard wildlife, similar to turtles. Even when locals are doing it, don’t do it! Discover a safe car parking zone as an alternative.

8. Be a accountable vacationer
Costa Rica has been on the forefront of sustainable tourism for many years. As a traveler, be sure to respect the country’s rich biodiversity and commitment to sustainability. All the time preserve a secure distance from animals and chorus from disturbing their setting. By no means feed the wildlife and select moral wildlife excursions that don’t exploit animals both.

When deciding on excursions and actions, take part in community-based initiatives to have interaction with and profit native communities. Supporting native companies not solely boosts the native financial system but in addition fosters accountable tourism. Go for eco-friendly lodging, similar to eco-lodges and sustainable resorts, which prioritize environmental conservation.
 

Costa Rica Street Journey FAQ

Is it secure to drive in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a number of slim, rugged, and windy roads that may be difficult to navigate. Street circumstances range broadly. Main highways are usually in good situation, however rural and mountain roads might be tough, with potholes and unpaved sections. It’s really useful to hire a 4×4 automobile should you plan to discover off-the-beaten-path areas.

That being mentioned, it’s completely secure to drive in Costa Rica, offering you train warning and keep alert behind the wheel.

Should know driving guidelines in Costa Rica!
It’s essential to concentrate on a couple of guidelines right here, as fines for infractions might be excessive. Listed here are some key guidelines for driving in Costa Rica:

• Site visitors flows on the best aspect of the highway right here.
• Pace limits are posted in kilometers per hour (for instance, it’s 90 km/h (55 mph) restrict on main highways).
• Sporting seat belts is obligatory, and there are particular seating legal guidelines for kids based mostly both on age or weight/peak.
• Utilizing a cell phone whereas driving is against the law.
• 0.05% is the authorized restrict for blood alcohol content material when breathalyzed (so by no means drink and drive).

Does a US driver’s license work in Costa Rica?
Sure. You need to use your native driver’s license so long as it’s printed within the Latin alphabet (so US licenses will work). Your driver’s license should be legitimate for the whole lot of your keep.

What’s the greatest time of yr to highway journey in Costa Rica?
The dry season (December to April) is the most effective time for a highway journey, because the roads are in higher situation, with much less of a threat of heavy rains. Though it’s peak season and tourism is at its highest, there’s nearly continuous sunshine, splendid for having fun with the nation’s seashores and rainforests. If visiting throughout this time, make all of your reservations prematurely since issues refill quick.

Alternatively, the inexperienced/wet season (Might to November) can supply lush landscapes and fewer vacationers. Simply be particularly aware about highway tripping throughout this time, as there’s extra threat of climate disrupting your plans.

What ought to I do in case of an accident or emergency?
If you’re concerned in a visitors accident, test that nobody is harm then transfer to security off the highway. Don’t transfer the automobile. Name the transit police and 911 for emergency companies. You also needs to name your automotive rental supplier to evaluate if the automotive might be pushed, if a mechanic is required onsite or if the automotive must be exchanged and towed. The automobile might be moved as soon as the transit police give permission.

Costa Rica is a superb place to highway journey. Though it’s essential to be cautious whereas driving on the winding roads, you’ll have probably the most freedom to discover with a set of your individual wheels. It doesn’t matter what you’re all for — mountain climbing, journey actions, wildlife, seashores — by following this Costa Rica highway journey itinerary, you’ll get a style of all of it.

You’ll want to use my go-to rental automotive firm, Vamos, to get the most effective value if you hire. You can click here to get a quote.