Costa Rica Wilderness Escape Self-Drive

Welcome to Costa Rica. Upon arrival at the airport, a local representative will meet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel in San José. After checking in, you will have free time to relax and settle into your room. You may choose to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Overnight in San José.

We collect you early from your hotel in San José to begin the journey eastwards by bus. As we travel, we pass through the lush rainforest of Braulio Carrillo National Park, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity. Mid-morning, we pause for breakfast at a local restaurant surrounded by vibrant tropical vegetation. Afterward, we continue towards the dock, passing extensive banana plantations along the way. From here, we board a boat to navigate the scenic canals of Tortuguero, a remote area accessible only by water. Tortuguero is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture, diverse wildlife, and as a key nesting site for green sea turtles. We arrive at the lodge around lunchtime, where we are welcomed with a refreshing cocktail followed by a generous buffet lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the colourful village of Tortuguero before you have free time to relax and enjoy the lodge’s facilities. Overnight in Tortuguero.

Before breakfast, we set out on a boat tour through the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park to observe the early activity of the local wildlife. Returning to the lodge, we enjoy a buffet breakfast. The remainder of the day is at leisure, ideal for relaxing by the pool or exploring the surroundings independently. Lunch is served at the lodge. During the green and leatherback turtle nesting season from July to October, we recommend booking an optional night tour to witness these remarkable creatures laying their eggs. Overnight in Tortuguero.

After breakfast at the lodge, we take a boat back through the jungle-lined canals of Tortuguero to the harbour. Lunch follows at a local restaurant before you meet a rental car representative who will hand over your vehicle. From here, you drive to Arenal, famed for its striking volcano. Although the Arenal Volcano has been dormant since 2010, it remains one of Costa Rica’s seven active volcanoes and a prominent natural landmark with its distinctive conical shape, set amid stunning scenery. Overnight in Arenal.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. You have the day at your leisure to relax or explore the Arenal region independently. This area is known for its striking volcano and surrounding natural beauty, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, or visiting local hot springs. Overnight in Arenal.

After breakfast, you will drive to Guanacaste, known as Costa Rica’s cattle and cowboy region, and home to the Rincón de la Vieja volcano. The name translates as ‘The Old Woman’s Corner’ and refers to a local legend about a Chorotega girl who lived as a hermit on the volcano’s summit, reputed for her healing powers using volcanic mud, thermal springs, and herbal remedies—practices still valued today. This volcanic area, over a million years old, is rich in both cultural history and natural beauty. As you approach, watch for local wildlife such as howler monkeys, coatis, and agoutis. You will stay overnight on an authentic ranch set within the striking dry tropical forest. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the hotel’s facilities and relax.

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the area around Rincón de la Vieja. The national park offers volcanic hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and lush tropical forests—ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply relaxing in the natural geothermal spas. Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Monteverde. Nestled in the mountains, the village of Santa Elena is often likened to a tropical Switzerland, with its wooden houses and cool, alpine-like climate. This unique environment—where mist and sunshine frequently mingle—creates ideal conditions for the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities. Overnight in Monteverde.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore Monteverde. You might visit the mystical cloud forests, walk across the hanging bridges, or spend time in the hummingbird gardens and the renowned Monteverde Butterfly Garden. For a more adventurous option, you could take a thrilling zip-line tour through the forest canopy. Overnight in Monteverde.

At your preferred time, drive to Puntarenas, a charming coastal town on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities and services. Overnight in Puntarenas.

At your convenience, drive to Manuel Antonio, enjoying scenic views of the Pacific Ocean along the way and passing extensive African palm oil plantations. Upon arrival, you’ll find a striking blend of pristine sandy beaches, sheltered bays, and lush tropical jungle. The area also boasts a wide selection of excellent restaurants and entertainment options. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and make the most of the hotel’s facilities.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore Manuel Antonio National Park at your own pace. The park features a flat, scenic trail that loops for approximately two miles, offering excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. Manuel Antonio is notable for hosting three of Costa Rica’s four native tropical primate species. Midway through your walk, pause at the renowned ‘Third Beach’ to relax on the soft sand or enjoy the waves. Along the trail, you may spot sloths, various birds, reptiles, wild orchids, butterflies, and lush tropical vegetation. Please note that the park entrance fee is not included. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before spending the day discovering more of Manuel Antonio’s stunning natural beauty at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax on the beach, explore additional trails, or simply soak in the surroundings, the day is yours to enjoy. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin the journey back to San Jose. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and spend the remainder of the day exploring the vibrant capital at your own pace. Take the opportunity to experience the city’s culture and enjoy your final evening in Costa Rica. Overnight in San Jose.

On your final day, you will return your rental car at the agreed time. The car rental company will then provide a shuttle transfer to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your Costa Rican journey.