My 1 Week Costa Rica Street Journey Itinerary for 2024

Because the nation that sparked my wanderlust, Costa Rica will at all times have a particular place in my coronary heart. The luxurious 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, lovely nation.

It’s additionally an ideal vacation spot to street journey. Since distances aren’t too lengthy, you’ll be able to simply get a great really feel for a few of the most important areas within the nation in a single week. (In the event you’ve bought extra time, nice! You may lengthen your stays in locations and even add on extra locations. I’ll share just a few suggestions on the finish).

However, even with simply seven days, you’ll be able to cowl lots 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. Which means you’ll save each money and time.

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

The place to Lease a Automobile in Costa Rica

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

You may click on right here to get a quote. (You’ll get 5% off by utilizing that hyperlink too!).

If Vamos doesn’t have what you’re on the lookout for, strive Uncover Vehicles. They evaluate costs from 1000’s of firms that can assist you discover the most effective deal. You should utilize the widget beneath to discover a deal:

When you get a automotive, take pictures and video of any scratches or dents. That method you might have proof proving you didn’t trigger them ought to the automotive rental firm ask (they often received’t but it surely’s at all times higher to be ready).
 

Days 1–2: San Jose

You’ll probably be flying out and in of the capital, San Jose. Which means you’ll be able to return your rental automotive to the identical location if you fly residence (which is cheaper than dropping it off elsewhere). 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 believe it’s price 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 stated, relying on when your flight arrives, you might simply do one evening right here and add extra time elsewhere.

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 residence to the (now defunct) Costa Rican navy, the everlasting exhibition traces Costa Rican historical past from Pre-Columbian occasions to the current day. It’s in-depth and intensely nicely completed, 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 up to date artwork, don’t miss the Museum of Modern 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 try 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 concerning 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 way in which. San José Free Strolling Tour is the primary operator — simply don’t neglect 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 amazing location between key neighborhoods. It hosts lots of cool occasions, there are dorms and personal rooms, and there’s a restaurant on-site too.
• Auténtico Resort: This laidback lodge 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 liked it!

For extra lodging solutions, 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 (be sure to cease at La Paz Waterfall Gardens on the way in which). 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 energetic day, there’s nothing higher than having fun with the sundown views over the lake.

La Fortuna is without doubt one of the nation’s hottest locations (with increased 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 residence 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 large, dropping nearly 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 you have sturdy footwear because the stroll down the steep, lengthy staircase can get slippery.
• Chill out within the well-known scorching springs – Because of all of the geothermal exercise within the space, there are lots of scorching springs right here. They vary in value and high quality, from free all the way in which as much as $89 USD at Tabacón Resort. It’s also possible to 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 without doubt one of the greatest within the nation for fowl watching, with nearly all of Costa Rica’s 900 species of birds represented right here. It’s at all times greatest to go along with an skilled native information as you’ll see many extra birds that method (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 without doubt 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 have 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 complete 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 every part too.
• Resort Arenal Rabfer: This lodge presents a pleasant pool, clear rooms with little balconies, and an amazing complimentary breakfast on the café subsequent door.

For extra issues to see and do, try 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 continually 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 fowl with its gorgeous emerald and ruby crimson plumage. There are lots 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 along 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 distinct 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 to discover by yourself at nighttime!
• Go zip lining – The longest zip line within the nation will be discovered right here (it’s a complete mile lengthy)! Gliding by way of the cover is a singular technique to see the jungle from a distinct perspective. In the event you’re an adrenaline junkie, don’t miss this!
• Stroll the hanging bridges – If zip lining isn’t precisely your velocity, you’ll be able to safely stroll hanging suspension bridges which might be constructed by way of the higher layer of the cover. It’ll provide you with a view off the forest flooring with out having to swing by way of 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 just a few completely different excursions right here, however the one one devoted totally 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 bushes with enjoyable actions, a lush inside 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 comfy rooms which have their very own outside seating space.

For extra issues to see and do, try my journey information to Monteverde right here.
 

Days 5–6: Manuel Antonio

Drive about 3.5-4 hours to Manuel Antonio, stopping on the way in which on the Tarcoles River Bridge to see crocodiles (simply don’t feed them). Manuel Antonio is a well-liked seaside vacation spot on the Pacific coast, recognized 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 primary 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. One of the 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 prematurely or go along with a guided tour.
• Lounge on the seaside – In addition to the seashores within the park, there’s additionally Playa Espadilla, an extended stretch of seaside that abuts the small city. It’s the right place to loosen up with a e book, and it’s simply steps away from all of the city’s most important 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 seaside or enroll in a surf faculty in the event you’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, residence to white-faced monkeys, crocodiles, spectacled caimans, boa constrictors, crab-eating raccoons, and pygmy anteaters. It’s also possible to 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, personal rooms, and full residences inside strolling distance of the small city, the seaside, and the nationwide park.
• Teva Jungle Resort and Hostel: An eco lodge 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, try 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 site visitors. In case you are caught in site 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, be sure 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 Street Journey Suggestions

1. Perceive automotive rental insurance coverage
Costa Rica has necessary third-party insurance coverage for automotive leases, so test that this value is included in your rental quote. It’s typically disregarded, that means you might 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 automotive. Most firms provide completely different tiers of insurance coverage, with numerous deductibles. Many renters choose full protection for peace of thoughts, so any harm is roofed. Some firms provide extra protection for tires and the windshield, as they don’t seem to be at all times lined by the CDW.

In case your bank card or journey insurance coverage (which I at all times suggest getting) has a CDW as a perk, you’ll be able to 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 situations is just not often enough.

Both method, be sure you have enough protection!

2. Select the suitable automobile
In the event you’re street 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 be sure you can go wherever, go for a 4×4. You may search by automobile sort at my go-to rental automotive firm in Costa Rica, Vamos. You may click on right here to get a quote. (You’ll get 5% off simply by utilizing that hyperlink).

3. Use Waze for navigation
Use the Waze app relatively than Google Maps, which isn’t at all times 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 which will have an effect on your journey time.

Plus, remember that when asking for instructions, nearly all locals give instructions utilizing landmarks relatively than street numbers.

4. Convey 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 will be spotty in distant areas, so it’s greatest to be ready.

5. Keep watch over climate situations
Climate in Costa Rica can change quickly, particularly throughout the wet season and within the mountains. Some roads might turn into difficult to navigate, with restricted visibility. Do your greatest to keep away from driving in poor climate, however in the event you do find yourself in a storm, pull over in a secure space (a roadside soda or native restaurant is at all times a great wager) and wait to see if situations enhance.

6. Add in time for scenic stops
I do know lots of vacationers like to essentially plan out their routes and itineraries. When you might have restricted time, it may be tempting to plan every part 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 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 received’t remorse it.

7. Be aware the place you park
Wherever potential, park in safe parking tons, and don’t depart valuables in an unattended automobile as break-ins can happen. On an identical be aware, it’s unlawful to park on the seaside. That is to guard wildlife, resembling 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 keep 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 choosing 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 additionally fosters accountable tourism. Go for eco-friendly lodging, resembling eco-lodges and sustainable lodges, which prioritize environmental conservation.
 

Costa Rica Street Journey FAQ

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

That being stated, 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 just a few guidelines right here, as fines for infractions will be excessive. Listed here are some key guidelines for driving in Costa Rica:

• Site visitors flows on the suitable aspect of the street right here.
• Pace limits are posted in kilometers per hour (for instance, it’s 90 km/h (55 mph) restrict on main highways).
• Carrying 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 should utilize your native driver’s license so long as it’s printed within the Latin alphabet (so US licenses will work). Your driver’s license have to be legitimate for the whole lot of your keep.

What’s the greatest time of 12 months to street journey in Costa Rica?
The dry season (December to April) is the most effective time for a street 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 nearly continuous sunshine, preferrred 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 provide lush landscapes and fewer vacationers. Simply be particularly aware about street 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?
In case you are concerned in a site visitors accident, test that nobody is damage then transfer to security off the street. Don’t transfer the automobile. Name the transit police and 911 for emergency companies. You must also name your automotive rental supplier to evaluate if the automotive will be pushed, if a mechanic is required onsite or if the automotive must be exchanged and towed. The automobile will be moved as soon as the transit police give permission.

Costa Rica is a good place to street 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 concerned about — mountain climbing, journey actions, wildlife, seashores — by following this Costa Rica street journey itinerary, you’ll get a style of all of it.

Be sure you use my go-to rental automotive firm, Vamos, to get the most effective value if you hire. You may click on right here to get a quote.