Arrival in Costa Rica, San José City Tour

San Jose - Upon arriving in San José, take the opportunity to explore the vibrant heart of Costa Rica’s capital at your leisure. Stroll through the bustling city center, where cultural and historical landmarks await—admire the elegant architecture of the National Theater, discover pre-Columbian treasures at the Gold Museum, experience the local atmosphere at the lively Central Market, and learn about the country’s rich heritage at the National Museum.

Through the Central Valley to the “Summit of Death” (Cerro de la Muerte)

Cartago - Collect your 4x4 SUV and embark on your first adventure into Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. Your journey begins in Cartago, the country’s historic spiritual capital and one of its oldest Spanish settlements. Enjoy a walking tour of the central square and visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, Costa Rica’s most significant religious site, dating back to the 16th century.
Continue through the picturesque Orosi Valley, known for its coffee plantations and rolling farmland. Stop at the Mirador de Ojas for panoramic views, then take a short hike to the ruins of a centuries-old church. After circling an artificial lake, pause for coffee at a hilltop restaurant with stunning views of the valley.
Drive on through remote mountain villages and dirt roads, visiting Costa Rica’s oldest still-active church. The day concludes with an off-road ascent to the highest point of the Pan-American Highway, reaching 3,491 meters, before arriving at your overnight destination.

From Costa Rica’s Highest Mountain (Cerro Chirripó) to the Pacific Coast

Boat Cruise & Guided Tour in Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park - Set out early for the riverside town of Sierpe, where you’ll leave your car behind and board a boat for a scenic journey through lush mangrove channels and out into the open sea. Keep an eye out for seasonal wildlife such as whales, dolphins, and sea turtles along the way.
Your destination is the remote and wild Osa Peninsula, home to Corcovado National Park—one of the most biologically intense places on the planet. Explore the park’s vibrant ecosystems, teeming with wildlife, before enjoying lunch and time to relax or swim at a pristine beach.
In the late afternoon, return to Uvita for a short sunset hike followed by a refreshing dip in the natural pools of Uvita Falls, accessed via an easy forest trail.

Along the Pacific Coast, Manuel Antonio & Car Ferry to Nicoya Peninsula

Manuel Antonio National Park - Drive north along the scenic Pacific Coast, crossing the iconic Crocodile Bridge, where you may spot massive reptiles basking below. Continue to the ferry terminal and board a vehicle ferry to the Nicoya Peninsula—be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins or even whales from the deck during the crossing.
Arrive on the peninsula and follow off-road trails through coastal and rural landscapes before reaching the charming town of Montezuma. Nestled between jungle and sea, Montezuma is a picturesque and laid-back beach town known for its bohemian vibe, waterfalls, and vibrant local culture.

Tropical Beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula

Nicoya - Enjoy a peaceful and leisurely day along the stunning Pacific beaches at the remote tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Explore charming coastal towns, take easy hikes, and savor breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. Activities include a walk to Montezuma Falls, where you can hike along the stream to a beautiful swimming pool beneath cascading waterfalls. At low tide, stroll to Cabuya Island, a small island just off the coast, perfect for exploration. Spend time relaxing on the tropical beaches and surfing at popular spots throughout Nicoya.
Don’t miss the chance to photograph the majestic giant ficus tree (El Higuerón), towering 40 meters high with a massive trunk over 20 meters in diameter—a true natural wonder.

Into the Cloud Forests of Monteverde

Monteverde - Cross the iconic Friendship Bridge and leave the coast behind as you ascend into the misty highlands of Monteverde, renowned for its lush cloud forests. Along the way, pause at the Friendship Bridge observation deck for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, embark on a guided night walk through the cloud forest to discover elusive nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

Viento Fresco Waterfalls, Tilarán Highlands & Chef’s Dinner in La Fortuna

La Fortuna - Start your day with an adrenaline-filled canopy zipline tour, soaring high above the breathtaking cloud forest in the Canopy Park. Afterward, embark on a scenic off-road drive through the Tilarán Highlands en route to the stunning Viento Fresco Waterfalls, where nature’s beauty awaits.
Conclude the day with a special chef’s dinner in La Fortuna, savoring local flavors crafted with care.

Río Celeste, Venado Caves & Hot Springs

Arenal Volcano National Park - Begin your morning with a hike to the stunning turquoise waters of Río Celeste, a natural phenomenon known for its vibrant blue hue—best seen on clear, rain-free days. Afterward, venture to the Venado Caves for an exciting guided caving adventure, exploring underground chambers and formations.
Return to the Arenal area to relax and unwind with a soak in the soothing thermal pools at your hotel resort.
You’ll also have time to stroll through the lively town center of La Fortuna, soaking in the local atmosphere.

Cocoa Farm & River Cruise to Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park - Travel east toward the Caribbean coast, beginning with a guided tour of Don Olivio Farm, where you’ll learn about traditional cocoa and tropical fruit cultivation, including the artisanal process of chocolate production. Next, embark on an off-road drive to the river cruise departure point for Tortuguero, a remote village accessible only by river or air. Enjoy a scenic boat ride through lush waterways, spotting wildlife as you travel to Tortuguero—an immersive journey that lasts about an hour, depending on water levels.
In the evening, join a guided night walk through the village or, if in season, participate in a sea turtle nesting tour to witness these incredible creatures up close.

Guided Morning Canoe Tour and the Vibrant Caribbean Coastal Towns

Cahuita - Start the morning with a final boat ride through the scenic waterways of the Tortuguero area, then transfer by riverboat back to the parking area. From there, drive south along the picturesque Caribbean coastline to reach the charming town of Cahuita, near Playa Negra, where you’ll spend the night.

A Relaxing Day on the Caribbean Coast and Visit to Cahuita Park

Cahuita National Park - In the morning, we’ll bid a reluctant farewell to the Caribbean coast as we ascend through lush landscapes toward Costa Rica’s central highlands, arriving at the foothills of Poás Volcano. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Starbucks’ only coffee farm in the world, complete with tastings.

Back to the Central Highlands and the Foothills of Poás Volcano

Poas Volcano National Park - In the morning, we’ll bid a reluctant farewell to the Caribbean coast as we ascend through lush landscapes toward Costa Rica’s central highlands, arriving at the foothills of Poás Volcano. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Starbucks’ only coffee farm in the world, complete with tastings.

Poás Volcano Reserve and Return to San Jose

San Jose - In the morning, visit the nearby park surrounding Poás Volcano, an active volcano boasting the largest crater among Costa Rica’s active volcanoes, featuring a stunning blue lagoon within. Afterward, drive to the airport to return your vehicle and catch your flight home.
End of trip.

• Tour of a Starbucks Coffee Farm (day 13)
• Suv4x4 Toyota landcruiser or similar rental for 13 days
• Car Ferry to the Nicoya Peninsula (day 5)
• Navigation & Guiding App: offline and seamless navigation, location-based tips
• Pre-trip advice session with a local expert
• Daily breakfast at the accommodation
• 13 nights in quality 3★ - 4★ hotels
• On-trip support from local expert: daily 09:00-18:00, emergency 24/7
• Guided night tour in Monteverde with dinner included (day 7)
• Night tour in Tortuguero Reserve - seasonal (day 10)
• Boat tour and guided excursion in Corcovado with lunch included (day 4)
• Tour of a Traditional Cocoa Farm (day 10)
• Chef’s Dinner in Arenal (day 8)
• Canoe Tour in Tortuguero Reserve (day 10)
• Canopy Park (day 8)

• Flights
• Lunches and Dinners
• Any items that are not explicitly listed as included

Set off on a 14-day self-drive journey through Costa Rica, exploring from the highland cloud forests to the Pacific and Caribbean shores. Experience volcanoes, waterfalls, wildlife-rich national parks, untouched beaches, and genuine cultural experiences. This trip offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and nature at its best.

• Self-drive tour with off-road experiences in a 4x4 SUV
• Navigational App: offline & smooth navigation, location-based tips
• Live assistance from a local expert throughout your journey
• Ideal for families with teenagers looking for adventure and quality time together
• A wide range of activities included

• Car rental is subject to the terms and conditions of local rental companies, and local laws
• Drivers must be at least 24 years old
• Package price is based on sharing one vehicle
• Our off-road routes follow only permitted trails that are already in use by local communities

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.