My 1 Week Costa Rica Highway Journey 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 plush jungles, the gorgeous waterfalls, the unimaginable wildlife, and the tremendous pleasant locals who’ve a love for love – it’s all simply nice. Costa Rica an attractive, stunning nation.

It’s additionally an ideal vacation spot to highway journey. Since distances aren’t too lengthy, you’ll be able to simply get a very good really feel for a few of the foremost areas within the nation in a single week. (For those who’ve bought extra time, nice! You possibly can 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’ll be able to cowl a variety of floor. The liberty of getting your personal wheels implies that you received’t be beholden to bus schedules or find yourself forking out some huge cash for costly vacationer shuttles. Meaning you’ll save each money and time.

That can assist you plan your journey, right here’s my supreme one-week Costa Rica highway journey itinerary:

The place to Lease a Automobile in Costa Rica

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

You possibly can click on right 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 on the lookout for, strive Uncover Vehicles. They examine costs from 1000’s of firms that will help you discover the most effective deal. You need to use the widget beneath to discover a deal:

When you get a automobile, take photographs and video of any scratches or dents. That manner you might have proof proving you didn’t trigger them ought to the automobile rental firm ask (they normally received’t nevertheless it’s all the time higher to be ready).
 

Days 1–2: San Jose

You’ll possible be flying out and in of the capital, San Jose. Meaning you’ll be able to return your rental automobile to the identical location while you fly house (which is cheaper than dropping it off elsewhere). Many individuals skip proper over the capital, opting to simply keep in a single day and head out the subsequent morning to greener pastures however I believe it’s value two nights. All of the nation’s greatest museums are right here, so you’ll be able to be taught the historical past of the nation earlier than embarking onwards. That mentioned, relying on when your flight arrives, you could possibly simply do one night time right here and add extra time elsewhere.

Issues to do in San José:

• Go to the Costa Rican Nationwide Museum – For those who solely go to one museum within the metropolis, make it this one. Housed within the fortress that was house to the (now defunct) Costa Rican army, the everlasting exhibition traces Costa Rican historical past from Pre-Columbian occasions to the current day. It’s in-depth and very effectively executed, 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. For those who’re into modern artwork, don’t miss the Museum of Up to date Artwork and Design (MADC), the place you’ll be able to 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’ll be able to 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 be taught 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 Strolling Tour is the principle operator — simply don’t overlook to tip your information on the finish!

For extra issues to see and do, right here’s my free journey information 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 Lodge: This laidback resort has an attractive 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 ideas, listed below are my favourite 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 (make 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 realm has tons of actions, and on the finish of an energetic 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 greater costs that match its recognition). Regardless of that, it’s nonetheless one in all my favourite locations within the nation. Simply don’t get misplaced within 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 house 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’ll be able to hike the lava flows from the devastating 1968 eruption of Arenal.
• Swim on the base of La Fortuna waterfall – This gorgeous waterfall is big, dropping virtually 75 meters (250 ft) into an enormous 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.
• Loosen up 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 worth 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 hen watching, with virtually 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 dear) do all of them!

WHERE TO STAY:

• Selina La Fortuna: Selina’s La Fortuna location is a whole complicated that includes an out of doors pool, trendy personal rooms, a poolside restaurant, and many organized actions (together with health and yoga lessons). It’s strolling distance from all the pieces too.
• Lodge Arenal Rabfer: This resort provides 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 journey information to Arenal right here.
 

Days 4: Monteverde

Roughly a 3.5-hour drive away, Monteverde is one in all my favourite locations in Costa Rica. All the 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 consistently 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 hen with its gorgeous emerald and ruby pink plumage. There are a variety of journey actions right here too. (Among 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 Youngsters’s Everlasting Rainforest. All are nice, with trails which might be fairly simple, well-marked, and well-maintained. For those who actually need to see wildlife, it’s greatest to go together with a information who can present you animals and birds hidden within the dense cover.
• Take an evening tour of the forest – It is a cool technique to see a unique facet of the jungle. Your information will level out all of the nocturnal animals (together with tarantulas and armadillos), bugs, and vegetation that you’d by no means be capable of discover by yourself at the hours of darkness!
• Go zip lining – The longest zip line within the nation might be discovered right here (it’s a whole mile lengthy)! Gliding via the cover is a novel technique to see the jungle from a unique perspective. For those who’re an adrenaline junkie, don’t miss this!
• Stroll the hanging bridges – If zip lining isn’t precisely your pace, you’ll be able to 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 known 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 solely 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 an attractive and tranquil location set within the timber with enjoyable actions, a lush internal courtyard with scorching tubs, and a separate co-working space.
• Monteverde Villa Lodge: This quiet resort is inside strolling distance to the city, providing complimentary breakfast and comfy rooms which have their very own out of doors seating space.

For extra issues to see and do, take a look at my journey information to Monteverde right 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 in recent times, 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 very best 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 make sure you get your tickets on-line upfront or go together with a guided tour.
• Lounge on the seashore – Moreover 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 guide, and it’s simply steps away from all of the city’s foremost eateries.
• Be taught to surf – There are tons of surf colleges that arrange store proper alongside Playa Espadilla. You possibly can pay for a one-off lesson or board rental proper on the seashore or enroll in a surf faculty for those who’re on the lookout for one thing extra complete.
• Take a mangrove tour – Hop on a ship to discover the protected mangrove channels round Damas Island, house 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 surroundings.

WHERE TO STAY:

• Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio: This chill nature lodge provides easy however clear dorms, personal rooms, and full flats inside strolling distance of the small city, the seashore, and the nationwide park.
• Teva Jungle Lodge and Hostel: An eco resort set proper subsequent to the forest, they provide personal 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, take a look at my journey information to Manuel Antonio right 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 automobile firm to keep away from a penalty.

Earlier than you come back the automobile, ensure that your gas gauge is on the proper stage, or else head to a fuel 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 Highway Journey Suggestions

1. Perceive automobile rental insurance coverage
Costa Rica has necessary third-party insurance coverage for automobile leases, so verify that this value is included in your rental quote. It’s typically unnoticed, that means you could possibly be stunned by the invoice on the finish.

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

In case your bank card or journey insurance coverage (which I all the time suggest getting) has a CDW as a perk, you’ll be able to waive the in-house CDW. You’ll must deliver a letter that explicitly states the quantity of protection, that Costa Rica is included within the areas coated, and the final 4 digits of the driving force’s bank card. A replica of the bank card firm’s phrases and circumstances is just not normally adequate.

Both manner, ensure you have adequate protection!

2. Select the appropriate automobile
For those who’re highway tripping Costa Rica, contemplate getting a 4×4 for simpler navigation on unpaved roads. You received’t want it for all roads, however if you wish to ensure you can go anyplace, go for a 4×4. You possibly can search by automobile kind at my go-to rental automobile firm in Costa Rica, Vamos. You possibly can click on right 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 occasions. 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, virtually all locals give instructions utilizing landmarks reasonably than highway numbers.

4. Carry a paper map
It’s a good suggestion to have an offline map downloaded to your cellphone, 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 in the course of the wet season and within the mountains. Some roads could turn out to be difficult to navigate, with restricted visibility. Do your greatest to keep away from driving in poor climate, however for those who do find yourself in a storm, pull over in a secure space (a roadside soda or native restaurant is all the time a very good guess) and wait to see if circumstances enhance.

6. Add in time for scenic stops
I do know a variety of vacationers like to essentially plan out their routes and itineraries. When you might have restricted time, it may be tempting to plan all the pieces to a T (I get it, I used to do that so much). 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 adjustments. You received’t remorse it.

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

8. Be a accountable vacationer
Costa Rica has been on the forefront of sustainable tourism for many years. As a traveler, make sure you respect the nation’s wealthy biodiversity and dedication to sustainability. At all times preserve a secure distance from animals and chorus from disturbing their surroundings. 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 economic system but in addition fosters accountable tourism. Go for eco-friendly lodging, akin to eco-lodges and sustainable resorts, which prioritize environmental conservation.
 

Costa Rica Highway Journey FAQ

Is it secure to drive in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a number of slender, rugged, and windy roads that may be difficult to navigate. Highway circumstances fluctuate extensively. Main highways are typically in good situation, however rural and mountain roads might be tough, with potholes and unpaved sections. It’s really useful to lease a 4×4 automobile for those who 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 vital to pay attention to a couple of guidelines right here, as fines for infractions might be excessive. Listed here are some key guidelines for driving in Costa Rica:

• Visitors flows on the appropriate facet of the highway right here.
• Velocity limits are posted in kilometers per hour (for instance, it’s 90 km/h (55 mph) restrict on main highways).
• Sporting seat belts is necessary, and there are particular seating legal guidelines for kids based mostly both on age or weight/top.
• Utilizing a cell phone whereas driving is prohibited.
• 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 everything of your keep.

What’s the greatest time of 12 months 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 danger of heavy rains. Though it’s peak season and tourism is at its highest, there’s virtually continuous sunshine, supreme for having fun with the nation’s seashores and rainforests. If visiting throughout this time, make all of your reservations upfront since issues replenish 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 danger 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, verify 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 automobile rental supplier to evaluate if the automobile might be pushed, if a mechanic is required onsite or if the automobile must be exchanged and towed. The automobile might be moved as soon as the transit police give permission.

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

Remember to use my go-to rental automobile firm, Vamos, to get the most effective worth while you lease. You possibly can click on right here to get a quote.