Costa Rica is a land of sloths, volcanoes, and rainforests that end right on the beach. This road trip by rental car takes you through the very best of it: from the smoking crater of Poás to the waterfalls and hanging bridges under the Arenal volcano, to the Pacific beaches of Manuel Antonio and the surfing hotspot of Dominical – and then across the mountains through the coffee region of Dota to the wild Caribbean coast.
You'll spot toucans, monkeys, and crocodiles, swim under waterfalls and in a hot river in the middle of the jungle, hop on a surfboard, and taste amazing coffee right where it grows.
Arrival day. After landing, you'll pick up your rental car at the airport and spend your first night nearby. Tomorrow morning, you'll head off for your first adventures.
Your journey begins and ends at Juan Santamaría International Airport. There is usually a long queue at passport control, but the process itself is generally hassle-free. All you need for entry is a passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date and an outbound flight ticket. If you are transiting through Canada or the USA, don't forget your ETA or ESTA electronic travel authorization. Check the current entry requirements before your trip.
After arrival, pick up your rental car at the airport – it's the easiest way to get around Costa Rica. Keep in mind that the roads are winding and navigation apps significantly underestimate travel times: 75 km can easily take three hours. The sun sets around 5 or 6 PM and it gets pitch black afterward, so plan your drives during daylight hours. In the mountains (like on the way to Poás), there is often no signal, so download offline maps.
Money: bring cash in US dollars, as they are commonly accepted alongside the local colón. You can exchange money at the bank, but it's usually a very slow process, even right after opening. Cash is mainly useful for parking, small entrance fees, and voluntary donations at reserves. Conversely, at Marino Ballena National Park, they only accept cards.
Tickets and reservations: buy tickets for Volcán Poás and Manuel Antonio National Parks online in advance. Tickets for Poás cannot be bought on-site, and Manuel Antonio is often sold out for days in advance during the season. An online reservation is required for Nauyaca Waterfalls. Other places (Bogarin Trail, La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico, Marino Ballena, Cahuita, Gandoca-Manzanillo) are paid for on the spot. Opening hours and entry conditions change, so check them before every visit.
Buy tickets to national parks here
Book your visit to Nauyaca Waterfalls here
Pack some insect repellent, sturdy shoes, water shoes, and a raincoat in your backpack – tropical rain is more of a rule than an exception here.
Start your day in Alajuela and then head into the mountains to one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. On the way, it's worth stopping at one of the coffee plantations on the slopes to have your first real Costa Rican coffee.
In the afternoon, you'll travel to the La Fortuna area below the Arenal volcano.
In the morning, take a walk around Alajuela's main square, with its park and surrounding churches. The town is most lively during the day and offers a pleasant first taste of the Costa Rican atmosphere. You can park on the nearby streets.
If you need to exchange money, you'll find banks around the square. Get there right at opening time, but still expect a long wait – there's usually a queue from the morning.
The road from Alajuela climbs into the mountains, and your mobile signal will gradually disappear along the way. You'll park at the national park's visitor center; parking fees are paid separately on-site.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance; you can't buy them at the gate (you'll find the link near the airport). However, there is strong Wi-Fi at the park entrance, so if you leave your reservation until the last minute due to weather, you can still buy it there.
From the parking lot, you walk along a paved path to the viewpoint above the main crater.
The crater is often shrouded in clouds so thick you can't see a meter in front of you. Don't give up—wait a while; the clouds often break, and the view into the smoking crater with its acidic lake is a real experience. A well-maintained trail leads around the volcano, and after about three kilometers, you'll reach another crater with the Botos lagoon.
The volcano is very active, and the park closes temporarily during periods of increased activity. Before you head out, check the current status and opening hours. Bring a jacket; it's cold and wet up there.
Your first full day under Arenal volcano. Due to jet lag, you'll probably wake up very early – take advantage of it, as the jungle is most vibrant in the morning.
Spend the morning on a jungle trail looking for wildlife, the afternoon soaking in a hot river, and the evening taking a stroll through the town of La Fortuna.
Bogarin Trail is located on the edge of the town of La Fortuna. It's about a two-kilometer jungle loop that you can manage without a guide – and you can re-enter multiple times throughout the day with the same ticket.
If you keep a close eye on the treetops, you'll see a lot: sloths, armadillos, hummingbirds, lizards, frogs, giant ants, and basilisks. It's the perfect place to spot a sloth on your very first day. Bring some bug spray; there are plenty of mosquitoes here.
Leave your car in the parking lot at the entrance to the reserve.
Then you'll head to the El Chollín thermal river, which flows through the rainforest below Arenal. You'll often see vendors selling fresh coconuts along the road on the way – a quick stop is definitely worth it.
There's no entrance fee, you just pay for parking, even along the roadside. Swimming in a warm river in the middle of the jungle is a "wild" experience with no facilities, so bring water shoes and a towel. If you prefer more comfort, there are plenty of thermal resorts nearby with standard pools.
At the end of the day, head back to La Fortuna and check out El Salto, where people swing on a rope and jump into the river. It looks awesome, but it's dangerous—after heavy rain, the river gets flooded and nobody swims or swings there. Only get in the water when it’s calm, and do it at your own risk.
After that, take a walk around the town of La Fortuna and wrap up your day with dinner at one of the local sodas.
You can park by the road near the river—just don't leave any valuables visible in your car.
A day of two great experiences beneath the Arenal volcano. Some people occasionally call the La Fortuna area overrated—don't let that put you off, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica.
Head to the waterfall by car right when it opens, you'll be almost alone in the morning. You can buy tickets on-site. The facilities are top-notch: a water fountain, toilets, changing rooms, and well-maintained stairs—there are about five hundred of them heading down.
After heavy rain, the waterfall is powerful, and you can't swim in the pool underneath—you can take a dip in the river nearby instead. Water shoes are really handy here. Check the opening hours in advance.
Tip: there's a stand with excellent specialty coffee by the parking lot (a shack with a 'Specialty Coffee' sign). Stop by for one after you climb back up the stairs.
Then you'll move to the other side of the volcano to Mistico Park. You'll walk along fixed and hanging bridges above the rainforest, with views of the majestic Arenal opening up along the way. The longest bridge is about 95 meters long and there's a 45-meter drop below you—even those with a fear of heights can handle it, and it's well worth it.
You can choose a shorter loop of about 1.5 km or a longer one of about 3 km. Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths can be wet. If the forecast is bad, there are usually fewer people around, and a light tropical rain doesn't ruin the experience at all. Keep an eye out—monkeys often scurry around in the treetops here.
You can park right at the entrance to the park.
You'll say goodbye to Arenal and head out for the long drive to the Pacific. It's about 170 km and roughly a three-and-a-half-hour drive to the crocodile bridge in Tárcoles, followed by the first beach and the resort town of Jacó.
Try to reach Quepos before dark – the access roads in the hills above the town can be rocky and tricky at night.
The bridge over the Tárcoles River is located right on the main highway along the coast. Park at one of the cafes by the bridge – a hot chocolate after a long drive hits the spot – and walk across the bridge.
From the bridge, you look down at the massive crocodiles basking on the banks. How many you'll see depends on the water level: when the river is high after the rains, there are usually fewer, while at other times whole groups of them are lying there.
A little further south, turn off towards Playa Mantas – your first encounter with the Pacific. You can park your car right by the beach for a voluntary donation.
The beach is truly beautiful, just keep an eye on your things. The local monkeys are cheeky and experienced: leave a trunk or backpack unattended for even a minute and you'll lose your snack. The monkeys even know how to open backpacks, so keep your food locked inside the car.
Then continue to Jacó, a surf town packed with American tourists. Grab a coffee here and head up to the Mirador de Jacó viewpoint above the city.
From the viewpoint, there's a beautiful view of the entire bay, and you'll often see pelicans gliding over the water. There's also a colorful Jacó sign, which is a popular spot for a photo.
You can stop and park right at the viewpoint.
Take the coastal road to Quepos. For dinner, head over to Soda Sánchez – a fantastic local spot serving authentic Costa Rican food that you’ll want to visit every day.
If you're in Quepos on a Friday, be sure to stroll through the local farmers' market.
You can find parking on the streets in downtown Quepos.
Spend the whole day in Costa Rica's most famous national park, where the rainforest meets turquoise beaches. Buy your tickets online in advance – they often sell out days ahead during the season.
In the evening, you can head back to Quepos for dinner, feel free to visit Soda Sánchez again.
From Quepos, you can reach the park in a few minutes by car. You can park for the whole day in paid parking lots just a short distance from the entrance. Don't bring drinks in plastic bottles, any other plastic items, or food – they check backpacks at the entrance and will throw away anything prohibited. There are water fountains along the main path, and you'll only find restrooms at the entrance and then near the beach. Check the opening days and hours in advance.
Consider a guided tour. Many animals sit high in the canopy or are so small that you'll miss them without binoculars and an experienced eye – without a guide, you could easily walk for an hour and only see a snake. The tour takes a little over an hour, and after that, you can explore the park on your own.
You can walk along the main path to the loop trail on the Punta Catedral peninsula. You'll see plenty of animals here even without a guide—small deer often graze along the trail and you can hear monkeys in the treetops.
The viewpoints along the loop offer stunning views of the sea cliffs and the waves crashing against them. The trail goes uphill in places, so make sure to take plenty of water.
From Punta Catedral, head straight down to the beaches inside the park. The water is calm and crystal clear, lizards run around on the sand, and you might spot a sleeping sloth in the tree canopy above—feel free to take an hour to watch it.
Stay on the beach until the afternoon, then walk back to the exit and your car. Keep your backpack with you at all times; the monkeys know how to open them.
You'll head south to the surfing spot Uvita – and on the way, you'll see one of the biggest highlights of the entire trip, the Nauyaca waterfalls.
In the morning, head by car for breakfast at the El Avión bar in the hills above Manuel Antonio. The restaurant is set inside the fuselage of an old cargo plane, and the terrace offers a stunning view of the coast. It's more of an Instagram-friendly spot geared toward American tourists, and the prices reflect that, but the experience and location are worth it. Check their opening hours in advance—if they aren't open in the morning, grab breakfast somewhere else and stop by here at least for a coffee with a view.
Keep an eye out around you and above the road—sloths sleep in the treetops along the way, and you might even spot a toucan flying across the road.
You can park right at the restaurant.
Take the coastal road to Dominical, a laid-back surf town. Take a stroll down the main street and along the beach – you'll find some cool shops and spots.
If you want to try surfing tomorrow, book a lesson today. Dominical is one of the best surfing beaches in the country, and instructors teach even complete beginners here.
You can park by the beach at the end of the main street.
From Dominical, a road leads inland to the Nauyaca Waterfalls office. You need to book your entry online in advance (you can find the link near the airport). Once there, check in at the office as a visitor, pay for your entry, and cover parking if needed.
From the parking lot, you're looking at about a four-kilometer trek one way over gravel and mud, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
The path from the parking area leads through the forest to the falls. At the entrance, you'll find changing rooms, restrooms, and water fountains, and there's a long set of stairs leading down to the water.
Nauyaca is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Costa Rica—a massive cascade with a large pool that’s perfect for a swim. Bring your swimsuit and water shoes. Make sure to leave enough time for the trip back so you can reach Uvita before dark.
Morning on a surfboard, then breakfast in Dominical, and the rest of the day on the endless beach of Marino Ballena National Park.
In the morning, you'll drive back to Dominical for a surf lesson. Private lessons lasting about two hours usually include an instructor, board and gear rental, and often a snack too. Even complete beginners can manage to stand up on the board and ride their first waves here.
With a bit of luck, you'll see parrots in the treetops by the beach.
You can park by the beach again.
After your lesson, walk over to Café Mono Congo right in Dominical for breakfast – it's honestly some of the best breakfast you'll have on the whole trip.
The little shop next door has some nice souvenirs at reasonable prices; they usually have a better selection there than anywhere else on the route.
Then you will move on to Uvita to the Marino Ballena National Park. You can buy tickets on the spot, but they only accept cards. The park has several entrances, and at some of them, there are so few people that you can walk along the endless beach without meeting a single soul.
During the season, you can watch whales here – usually from about December to April and from July to October, but be sure to check the exact dates.
Walk along the beach to the Punta Uvita headland, known as the Whale Tail – a sandbar that looks like a whale's tail fin from above. The path is about 3 km long, and you can only reach the tip of the tail at low tide, so check the tide charts beforehand.
You'll need to wade across a small stream on the way, so be careful there – crocodiles live in the area. Don't sit on your towel right by the water. On the way back, keep an eye on the trees; colorful parrots often hang out there.
The longest stretch of the whole trip – from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Expect about 500 km and ten hours of driving without stops. Leave as early as possible in the morning, you really don't want to be driving in Costa Rica after dark.
From the coast, drive up into the mountains to the picturesque town of Santa María de Dota, a place synonymous with coffee. Stop by Cafetería Coopedota for an excellent cup of coffee from the local cooperative, and feel free to stock up for home.
Then, take a stroll through the town's streets and check out the interesting local cemetery. For coffee lovers, this stop is a small highlight of the whole trip.
You can park at the café or in the streets around the square.
From Dota, continue by car to Cartago, the former capital of Costa Rica. The city itself isn't particularly beautiful, but you should at least stop by the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It’s the country's most important pilgrimage site, where pilgrims travel from as far as San José to honor the Black Madonna, known as La Negrita.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots near the basilica, not along the road. If you have extra time, you can also drive from Cartago to the nearby Irazú Volcano.
You can walk to the main square where you'll find the ruins of the Santiago Apóstol church, which was never finished due to earthquakes. Inside the walls, there's a landscaped garden that's perfect for a short stroll.
From Cartago, you have a long drive ahead to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast. Leave as early as possible – the route goes through the mountains and then along the coast, which can be challenging after dark.
A day on the Caribbean coast: wild beaches, a jungle full of animals, and an evening in Costa Rica's liveliest town.
After breakfast, drive south to the village of Manzanillo at the end of the coastal road. Make sure to take at least a short walk along its wild beach with palm trees and a shipwreck in the shallow water.
From the beach, you can walk to the entrance of the Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge. There is no official admission fee, but you need to sign the guest book and a voluntary donation is expected. There are restrooms just past the entrance.
The trail leads through the rainforest along wild beaches, and you'll see plenty of animals here—families of toucans, sloths, monkeys, and giant spiders. Wear sturdy shoes, as you'll often be wading through mud.
In the afternoon, you'll drive back to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a small town with a real Caribbean vibe. You'll find plenty of souvenir shops, food stalls, and beaches right in the center.
The town really comes alive at night—go catch some live music and grab a margarita. You might get offered weed on the street; just politely decline.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots in the town center.
Spend the whole day on the Cahuita National Park coastal trail between the jungle and the beaches. You'll walk about 10 km, and it's not a loop—you'll take a local bus back to your car.
You can drive from Puerto Viejo north to the entrance of Cahuita National Park in Puerto Vargas. There are two entrances to the park – Puerto Vargas and Kelly Creek right in Cahuita – and it's best to enter at one and walk through the park to the other. At the entrance, you pay the admission fee and sign the guest book.
Bring your swimsuit, plenty of water, and something to eat. Keep your food well-sealed, as monkeys here climb into people's backpacks.
The parking lot is right at the entrance to the park.
Walk the coastal trail through the park all the way to the Kelly Creek entrance in Cahuita. Along the way, you'll find plenty of beautiful beaches for a swim and animals at every turn – two species of monkeys, sloths, raccoons, and coatis.
From Cahuita, a local bus will take you back to the first entrance and your car for just a few colones.
Your last day with the car, featuring a long drive from the Caribbean back to the Central Valley. You'll break up the journey with stops in the port city of Limón and in San José, ending your evening right back where you started – in Alajuela near the airport.
On your way, you'll stop by car in the port city of Limón. Honestly – if you skip it, you won't miss anything essential. However, it's fine for a short break: take a walk through the center via Vargas Park with its tall palm trees towards the harbor and keep going.
You can park in one of the guarded parking lots in the center.
After a long drive, you'll arrive in San José. Leave your car in a secure parking lot near the center and head out into the streets. Start at the Mercado Central, a bustling market filled with stalls selling fruit, coffee, spices, and small eateries.
It's just a few minutes' walk to the historic Correos de Costa Rica post office building. Next to it, you'll find the colorful SJO sign, a popular photo spot, and there are plenty of cafes nearby for a quick break.
Don't linger too long in San José; there are many more beautiful places in Costa Rica, and heavy downpours are common here in the afternoon. After that, head by car to Alajuela and pick up your last souvenirs at a supermarket.
Departure day. Before your flight, drop off your rental car at the airport – make sure to leave enough time for the return and check-in.
Make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare – returning your rental car and getting to the terminal takes a while. It's worth grabbing your last coffee and souvenirs at a supermarket beforehand, as the selection at the airport is usually smaller.
Pura vida isn't just a greeting here, but a way of life – and after two weeks among sloths, waterfalls, and beaches, you'll likely understand it too.
Before you leave, check the current status of national parks and volcanoes, ticket reservations, and the weather forecast: during the rainy season, parks sometimes close temporarily due to high water, and roads can get rough. Have a safe trip!
Costa Rica is a land of sloths, volcanoes, and rainforests that end right on the beach. This road trip by rental car takes you through the very best of it: from the smoking crater of Poás to the waterfalls and hanging bridges under the Arenal volcano, to the Pacific beaches of Manuel Antonio and the surfing hotspot of Dominical – and then across the mountains through the coffee region of Dota to the wild Caribbean coast.
You'll spot toucans, monkeys, and crocodiles, swim under waterfalls and in a hot river in the middle of the jungle, hop on a surfboard, and taste amazing coffee right where it grows.
Arrival day. After landing, you'll pick up your rental car at the airport and spend your first night nearby. Tomorrow morning, you'll head off for your first adventures.
Your journey begins and ends at Juan Santamaría International Airport. There is usually a long queue at passport control, but the process itself is generally hassle-free. All you need for entry is a passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date and an outbound flight ticket. If you are transiting through Canada or the USA, don't forget your ETA or ESTA electronic travel authorization. Check the current entry requirements before your trip.
After arrival, pick up your rental car at the airport – it's the easiest way to get around Costa Rica. Keep in mind that the roads are winding and navigation apps significantly underestimate travel times: 75 km can easily take three hours. The sun sets around 5 or 6 PM and it gets pitch black afterward, so plan your drives during daylight hours. In the mountains (like on the way to Poás), there is often no signal, so download offline maps.
Money: bring cash in US dollars, as they are commonly accepted alongside the local colón. You can exchange money at the bank, but it's usually a very slow process, even right after opening. Cash is mainly useful for parking, small entrance fees, and voluntary donations at reserves. Conversely, at Marino Ballena National Park, they only accept cards.
Tickets and reservations: buy tickets for Volcán Poás and Manuel Antonio National Parks online in advance. Tickets for Poás cannot be bought on-site, and Manuel Antonio is often sold out for days in advance during the season. An online reservation is required for Nauyaca Waterfalls. Other places (Bogarin Trail, La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico, Marino Ballena, Cahuita, Gandoca-Manzanillo) are paid for on the spot. Opening hours and entry conditions change, so check them before every visit.
Buy tickets to national parks here
Book your visit to Nauyaca Waterfalls here
Pack some insect repellent, sturdy shoes, water shoes, and a raincoat in your backpack – tropical rain is more of a rule than an exception here.
Start your day in Alajuela and then head into the mountains to one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. On the way, it's worth stopping at one of the coffee plantations on the slopes to have your first real Costa Rican coffee.
In the afternoon, you'll travel to the La Fortuna area below the Arenal volcano.
In the morning, take a walk around Alajuela's main square, with its park and surrounding churches. The town is most lively during the day and offers a pleasant first taste of the Costa Rican atmosphere. You can park on the nearby streets.
If you need to exchange money, you'll find banks around the square. Get there right at opening time, but still expect a long wait – there's usually a queue from the morning.
The road from Alajuela climbs into the mountains, and your mobile signal will gradually disappear along the way. You'll park at the national park's visitor center; parking fees are paid separately on-site.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance; you can't buy them at the gate (you'll find the link near the airport). However, there is strong Wi-Fi at the park entrance, so if you leave your reservation until the last minute due to weather, you can still buy it there.
From the parking lot, you walk along a paved path to the viewpoint above the main crater.
The crater is often shrouded in clouds so thick you can't see a meter in front of you. Don't give up—wait a while; the clouds often break, and the view into the smoking crater with its acidic lake is a real experience. A well-maintained trail leads around the volcano, and after about three kilometers, you'll reach another crater with the Botos lagoon.
The volcano is very active, and the park closes temporarily during periods of increased activity. Before you head out, check the current status and opening hours. Bring a jacket; it's cold and wet up there.
Your first full day under Arenal volcano. Due to jet lag, you'll probably wake up very early – take advantage of it, as the jungle is most vibrant in the morning.
Spend the morning on a jungle trail looking for wildlife, the afternoon soaking in a hot river, and the evening taking a stroll through the town of La Fortuna.
Bogarin Trail is located on the edge of the town of La Fortuna. It's about a two-kilometer jungle loop that you can manage without a guide – and you can re-enter multiple times throughout the day with the same ticket.
If you keep a close eye on the treetops, you'll see a lot: sloths, armadillos, hummingbirds, lizards, frogs, giant ants, and basilisks. It's the perfect place to spot a sloth on your very first day. Bring some bug spray; there are plenty of mosquitoes here.
Leave your car in the parking lot at the entrance to the reserve.
Then you'll head to the El Chollín thermal river, which flows through the rainforest below Arenal. You'll often see vendors selling fresh coconuts along the road on the way – a quick stop is definitely worth it.
There's no entrance fee, you just pay for parking, even along the roadside. Swimming in a warm river in the middle of the jungle is a "wild" experience with no facilities, so bring water shoes and a towel. If you prefer more comfort, there are plenty of thermal resorts nearby with standard pools.
At the end of the day, head back to La Fortuna and check out El Salto, where people swing on a rope and jump into the river. It looks awesome, but it's dangerous—after heavy rain, the river gets flooded and nobody swims or swings there. Only get in the water when it’s calm, and do it at your own risk.
After that, take a walk around the town of La Fortuna and wrap up your day with dinner at one of the local sodas.
You can park by the road near the river—just don't leave any valuables visible in your car.
A day of two great experiences beneath the Arenal volcano. Some people occasionally call the La Fortuna area overrated—don't let that put you off, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica.
Head to the waterfall by car right when it opens, you'll be almost alone in the morning. You can buy tickets on-site. The facilities are top-notch: a water fountain, toilets, changing rooms, and well-maintained stairs—there are about five hundred of them heading down.
After heavy rain, the waterfall is powerful, and you can't swim in the pool underneath—you can take a dip in the river nearby instead. Water shoes are really handy here. Check the opening hours in advance.
Tip: there's a stand with excellent specialty coffee by the parking lot (a shack with a 'Specialty Coffee' sign). Stop by for one after you climb back up the stairs.
Then you'll move to the other side of the volcano to Mistico Park. You'll walk along fixed and hanging bridges above the rainforest, with views of the majestic Arenal opening up along the way. The longest bridge is about 95 meters long and there's a 45-meter drop below you—even those with a fear of heights can handle it, and it's well worth it.
You can choose a shorter loop of about 1.5 km or a longer one of about 3 km. Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths can be wet. If the forecast is bad, there are usually fewer people around, and a light tropical rain doesn't ruin the experience at all. Keep an eye out—monkeys often scurry around in the treetops here.
You can park right at the entrance to the park.
You'll say goodbye to Arenal and head out for the long drive to the Pacific. It's about 170 km and roughly a three-and-a-half-hour drive to the crocodile bridge in Tárcoles, followed by the first beach and the resort town of Jacó.
Try to reach Quepos before dark – the access roads in the hills above the town can be rocky and tricky at night.
The bridge over the Tárcoles River is located right on the main highway along the coast. Park at one of the cafes by the bridge – a hot chocolate after a long drive hits the spot – and walk across the bridge.
From the bridge, you look down at the massive crocodiles basking on the banks. How many you'll see depends on the water level: when the river is high after the rains, there are usually fewer, while at other times whole groups of them are lying there.
A little further south, turn off towards Playa Mantas – your first encounter with the Pacific. You can park your car right by the beach for a voluntary donation.
The beach is truly beautiful, just keep an eye on your things. The local monkeys are cheeky and experienced: leave a trunk or backpack unattended for even a minute and you'll lose your snack. The monkeys even know how to open backpacks, so keep your food locked inside the car.
Then continue to Jacó, a surf town packed with American tourists. Grab a coffee here and head up to the Mirador de Jacó viewpoint above the city.
From the viewpoint, there's a beautiful view of the entire bay, and you'll often see pelicans gliding over the water. There's also a colorful Jacó sign, which is a popular spot for a photo.
You can stop and park right at the viewpoint.
Take the coastal road to Quepos. For dinner, head over to Soda Sánchez – a fantastic local spot serving authentic Costa Rican food that you’ll want to visit every day.
If you're in Quepos on a Friday, be sure to stroll through the local farmers' market.
You can find parking on the streets in downtown Quepos.
Spend the whole day in Costa Rica's most famous national park, where the rainforest meets turquoise beaches. Buy your tickets online in advance – they often sell out days ahead during the season.
In the evening, you can head back to Quepos for dinner, feel free to visit Soda Sánchez again.
From Quepos, you can reach the park in a few minutes by car. You can park for the whole day in paid parking lots just a short distance from the entrance. Don't bring drinks in plastic bottles, any other plastic items, or food – they check backpacks at the entrance and will throw away anything prohibited. There are water fountains along the main path, and you'll only find restrooms at the entrance and then near the beach. Check the opening days and hours in advance.
Consider a guided tour. Many animals sit high in the canopy or are so small that you'll miss them without binoculars and an experienced eye – without a guide, you could easily walk for an hour and only see a snake. The tour takes a little over an hour, and after that, you can explore the park on your own.
You can walk along the main path to the loop trail on the Punta Catedral peninsula. You'll see plenty of animals here even without a guide—small deer often graze along the trail and you can hear monkeys in the treetops.
The viewpoints along the loop offer stunning views of the sea cliffs and the waves crashing against them. The trail goes uphill in places, so make sure to take plenty of water.
From Punta Catedral, head straight down to the beaches inside the park. The water is calm and crystal clear, lizards run around on the sand, and you might spot a sleeping sloth in the tree canopy above—feel free to take an hour to watch it.
Stay on the beach until the afternoon, then walk back to the exit and your car. Keep your backpack with you at all times; the monkeys know how to open them.
You'll head south to the surfing spot Uvita – and on the way, you'll see one of the biggest highlights of the entire trip, the Nauyaca waterfalls.
In the morning, head by car for breakfast at the El Avión bar in the hills above Manuel Antonio. The restaurant is set inside the fuselage of an old cargo plane, and the terrace offers a stunning view of the coast. It's more of an Instagram-friendly spot geared toward American tourists, and the prices reflect that, but the experience and location are worth it. Check their opening hours in advance—if they aren't open in the morning, grab breakfast somewhere else and stop by here at least for a coffee with a view.
Keep an eye out around you and above the road—sloths sleep in the treetops along the way, and you might even spot a toucan flying across the road.
You can park right at the restaurant.
Take the coastal road to Dominical, a laid-back surf town. Take a stroll down the main street and along the beach – you'll find some cool shops and spots.
If you want to try surfing tomorrow, book a lesson today. Dominical is one of the best surfing beaches in the country, and instructors teach even complete beginners here.
You can park by the beach at the end of the main street.
From Dominical, a road leads inland to the Nauyaca Waterfalls office. You need to book your entry online in advance (you can find the link near the airport). Once there, check in at the office as a visitor, pay for your entry, and cover parking if needed.
From the parking lot, you're looking at about a four-kilometer trek one way over gravel and mud, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
The path from the parking area leads through the forest to the falls. At the entrance, you'll find changing rooms, restrooms, and water fountains, and there's a long set of stairs leading down to the water.
Nauyaca is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Costa Rica—a massive cascade with a large pool that’s perfect for a swim. Bring your swimsuit and water shoes. Make sure to leave enough time for the trip back so you can reach Uvita before dark.
Morning on a surfboard, then breakfast in Dominical, and the rest of the day on the endless beach of Marino Ballena National Park.
In the morning, you'll drive back to Dominical for a surf lesson. Private lessons lasting about two hours usually include an instructor, board and gear rental, and often a snack too. Even complete beginners can manage to stand up on the board and ride their first waves here.
With a bit of luck, you'll see parrots in the treetops by the beach.
You can park by the beach again.
After your lesson, walk over to Café Mono Congo right in Dominical for breakfast – it's honestly some of the best breakfast you'll have on the whole trip.
The little shop next door has some nice souvenirs at reasonable prices; they usually have a better selection there than anywhere else on the route.
Then you will move on to Uvita to the Marino Ballena National Park. You can buy tickets on the spot, but they only accept cards. The park has several entrances, and at some of them, there are so few people that you can walk along the endless beach without meeting a single soul.
During the season, you can watch whales here – usually from about December to April and from July to October, but be sure to check the exact dates.
Walk along the beach to the Punta Uvita headland, known as the Whale Tail – a sandbar that looks like a whale's tail fin from above. The path is about 3 km long, and you can only reach the tip of the tail at low tide, so check the tide charts beforehand.
You'll need to wade across a small stream on the way, so be careful there – crocodiles live in the area. Don't sit on your towel right by the water. On the way back, keep an eye on the trees; colorful parrots often hang out there.
The longest stretch of the whole trip – from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Expect about 500 km and ten hours of driving without stops. Leave as early as possible in the morning, you really don't want to be driving in Costa Rica after dark.
From the coast, drive up into the mountains to the picturesque town of Santa María de Dota, a place synonymous with coffee. Stop by Cafetería Coopedota for an excellent cup of coffee from the local cooperative, and feel free to stock up for home.
Then, take a stroll through the town's streets and check out the interesting local cemetery. For coffee lovers, this stop is a small highlight of the whole trip.
You can park at the café or in the streets around the square.
From Dota, continue by car to Cartago, the former capital of Costa Rica. The city itself isn't particularly beautiful, but you should at least stop by the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It’s the country's most important pilgrimage site, where pilgrims travel from as far as San José to honor the Black Madonna, known as La Negrita.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots near the basilica, not along the road. If you have extra time, you can also drive from Cartago to the nearby Irazú Volcano.
You can walk to the main square where you'll find the ruins of the Santiago Apóstol church, which was never finished due to earthquakes. Inside the walls, there's a landscaped garden that's perfect for a short stroll.
From Cartago, you have a long drive ahead to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast. Leave as early as possible – the route goes through the mountains and then along the coast, which can be challenging after dark.
A day on the Caribbean coast: wild beaches, a jungle full of animals, and an evening in Costa Rica's liveliest town.
After breakfast, drive south to the village of Manzanillo at the end of the coastal road. Make sure to take at least a short walk along its wild beach with palm trees and a shipwreck in the shallow water.
From the beach, you can walk to the entrance of the Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge. There is no official admission fee, but you need to sign the guest book and a voluntary donation is expected. There are restrooms just past the entrance.
The trail leads through the rainforest along wild beaches, and you'll see plenty of animals here—families of toucans, sloths, monkeys, and giant spiders. Wear sturdy shoes, as you'll often be wading through mud.
In the afternoon, you'll drive back to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a small town with a real Caribbean vibe. You'll find plenty of souvenir shops, food stalls, and beaches right in the center.
The town really comes alive at night—go catch some live music and grab a margarita. You might get offered weed on the street; just politely decline.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots in the town center.
Spend the whole day on the Cahuita National Park coastal trail between the jungle and the beaches. You'll walk about 10 km, and it's not a loop—you'll take a local bus back to your car.
You can drive from Puerto Viejo north to the entrance of Cahuita National Park in Puerto Vargas. There are two entrances to the park – Puerto Vargas and Kelly Creek right in Cahuita – and it's best to enter at one and walk through the park to the other. At the entrance, you pay the admission fee and sign the guest book.
Bring your swimsuit, plenty of water, and something to eat. Keep your food well-sealed, as monkeys here climb into people's backpacks.
The parking lot is right at the entrance to the park.
Walk the coastal trail through the park all the way to the Kelly Creek entrance in Cahuita. Along the way, you'll find plenty of beautiful beaches for a swim and animals at every turn – two species of monkeys, sloths, raccoons, and coatis.
From Cahuita, a local bus will take you back to the first entrance and your car for just a few colones.
Your last day with the car, featuring a long drive from the Caribbean back to the Central Valley. You'll break up the journey with stops in the port city of Limón and in San José, ending your evening right back where you started – in Alajuela near the airport.
On your way, you'll stop by car in the port city of Limón. Honestly – if you skip it, you won't miss anything essential. However, it's fine for a short break: take a walk through the center via Vargas Park with its tall palm trees towards the harbor and keep going.
You can park in one of the guarded parking lots in the center.
After a long drive, you'll arrive in San José. Leave your car in a secure parking lot near the center and head out into the streets. Start at the Mercado Central, a bustling market filled with stalls selling fruit, coffee, spices, and small eateries.
It's just a few minutes' walk to the historic Correos de Costa Rica post office building. Next to it, you'll find the colorful SJO sign, a popular photo spot, and there are plenty of cafes nearby for a quick break.
Don't linger too long in San José; there are many more beautiful places in Costa Rica, and heavy downpours are common here in the afternoon. After that, head by car to Alajuela and pick up your last souvenirs at a supermarket.
Departure day. Before your flight, drop off your rental car at the airport – make sure to leave enough time for the return and check-in.
Make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare – returning your rental car and getting to the terminal takes a while. It's worth grabbing your last coffee and souvenirs at a supermarket beforehand, as the selection at the airport is usually smaller.
Pura vida isn't just a greeting here, but a way of life – and after two weeks among sloths, waterfalls, and beaches, you'll likely understand it too.
Before you leave, check the current status of national parks and volcanoes, ticket reservations, and the weather forecast: during the rainy season, parks sometimes close temporarily due to high water, and roads can get rough. Have a safe trip!
itinerary by Test Profile Bloggers
Costa Rica is a land of sloths, volcanoes, and rainforests that end right on the beach. This road trip by rental car takes you through the very best of it: from the smoking crater of Poás to the waterfalls and hanging bridges under the Arenal volcano, to the Pacific beaches of Manuel Antonio and the surfing hotspot of Dominical – and then across the mountains through the coffee region of Dota to the wild Caribbean coast.
You'll spot toucans, monkeys, and crocodiles, swim under waterfalls and in a hot river in the middle of the jungle, hop on a surfboard, and taste amazing coffee right where it grows.
Arrival day. After landing, you'll pick up your rental car at the airport and spend your first night nearby. Tomorrow morning, you'll head off for your first adventures.
Your journey begins and ends at Juan Santamaría International Airport. There is usually a long queue at passport control, but the process itself is generally hassle-free. All you need for entry is a passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date and an outbound flight ticket. If you are transiting through Canada or the USA, don't forget your ETA or ESTA electronic travel authorization. Check the current entry requirements before your trip.
After arrival, pick up your rental car at the airport – it's the easiest way to get around Costa Rica. Keep in mind that the roads are winding and navigation apps significantly underestimate travel times: 75 km can easily take three hours. The sun sets around 5 or 6 PM and it gets pitch black afterward, so plan your drives during daylight hours. In the mountains (like on the way to Poás), there is often no signal, so download offline maps.
Money: bring cash in US dollars, as they are commonly accepted alongside the local colón. You can exchange money at the bank, but it's usually a very slow process, even right after opening. Cash is mainly useful for parking, small entrance fees, and voluntary donations at reserves. Conversely, at Marino Ballena National Park, they only accept cards.
Tickets and reservations: buy tickets for Volcán Poás and Manuel Antonio National Parks online in advance. Tickets for Poás cannot be bought on-site, and Manuel Antonio is often sold out for days in advance during the season. An online reservation is required for Nauyaca Waterfalls. Other places (Bogarin Trail, La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico, Marino Ballena, Cahuita, Gandoca-Manzanillo) are paid for on the spot. Opening hours and entry conditions change, so check them before every visit.
Buy tickets to national parks here
Book your visit to Nauyaca Waterfalls here
Pack some insect repellent, sturdy shoes, water shoes, and a raincoat in your backpack – tropical rain is more of a rule than an exception here.
Start your day in Alajuela and then head into the mountains to one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. On the way, it's worth stopping at one of the coffee plantations on the slopes to have your first real Costa Rican coffee.
In the afternoon, you'll travel to the La Fortuna area below the Arenal volcano.
In the morning, take a walk around Alajuela's main square, with its park and surrounding churches. The town is most lively during the day and offers a pleasant first taste of the Costa Rican atmosphere. You can park on the nearby streets.
If you need to exchange money, you'll find banks around the square. Get there right at opening time, but still expect a long wait – there's usually a queue from the morning.
The road from Alajuela climbs into the mountains, and your mobile signal will gradually disappear along the way. You'll park at the national park's visitor center; parking fees are paid separately on-site.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance; you can't buy them at the gate (you'll find the link near the airport). However, there is strong Wi-Fi at the park entrance, so if you leave your reservation until the last minute due to weather, you can still buy it there.
From the parking lot, you walk along a paved path to the viewpoint above the main crater.
The crater is often shrouded in clouds so thick you can't see a meter in front of you. Don't give up—wait a while; the clouds often break, and the view into the smoking crater with its acidic lake is a real experience. A well-maintained trail leads around the volcano, and after about three kilometers, you'll reach another crater with the Botos lagoon.
The volcano is very active, and the park closes temporarily during periods of increased activity. Before you head out, check the current status and opening hours. Bring a jacket; it's cold and wet up there.
Your first full day under Arenal volcano. Due to jet lag, you'll probably wake up very early – take advantage of it, as the jungle is most vibrant in the morning.
Spend the morning on a jungle trail looking for wildlife, the afternoon soaking in a hot river, and the evening taking a stroll through the town of La Fortuna.
Bogarin Trail is located on the edge of the town of La Fortuna. It's about a two-kilometer jungle loop that you can manage without a guide – and you can re-enter multiple times throughout the day with the same ticket.
If you keep a close eye on the treetops, you'll see a lot: sloths, armadillos, hummingbirds, lizards, frogs, giant ants, and basilisks. It's the perfect place to spot a sloth on your very first day. Bring some bug spray; there are plenty of mosquitoes here.
Leave your car in the parking lot at the entrance to the reserve.
Then you'll head to the El Chollín thermal river, which flows through the rainforest below Arenal. You'll often see vendors selling fresh coconuts along the road on the way – a quick stop is definitely worth it.
There's no entrance fee, you just pay for parking, even along the roadside. Swimming in a warm river in the middle of the jungle is a "wild" experience with no facilities, so bring water shoes and a towel. If you prefer more comfort, there are plenty of thermal resorts nearby with standard pools.
At the end of the day, head back to La Fortuna and check out El Salto, where people swing on a rope and jump into the river. It looks awesome, but it's dangerous—after heavy rain, the river gets flooded and nobody swims or swings there. Only get in the water when it’s calm, and do it at your own risk.
After that, take a walk around the town of La Fortuna and wrap up your day with dinner at one of the local sodas.
You can park by the road near the river—just don't leave any valuables visible in your car.
A day of two great experiences beneath the Arenal volcano. Some people occasionally call the La Fortuna area overrated—don't let that put you off, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica.
Head to the waterfall by car right when it opens, you'll be almost alone in the morning. You can buy tickets on-site. The facilities are top-notch: a water fountain, toilets, changing rooms, and well-maintained stairs—there are about five hundred of them heading down.
After heavy rain, the waterfall is powerful, and you can't swim in the pool underneath—you can take a dip in the river nearby instead. Water shoes are really handy here. Check the opening hours in advance.
Tip: there's a stand with excellent specialty coffee by the parking lot (a shack with a 'Specialty Coffee' sign). Stop by for one after you climb back up the stairs.
Then you'll move to the other side of the volcano to Mistico Park. You'll walk along fixed and hanging bridges above the rainforest, with views of the majestic Arenal opening up along the way. The longest bridge is about 95 meters long and there's a 45-meter drop below you—even those with a fear of heights can handle it, and it's well worth it.
You can choose a shorter loop of about 1.5 km or a longer one of about 3 km. Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths can be wet. If the forecast is bad, there are usually fewer people around, and a light tropical rain doesn't ruin the experience at all. Keep an eye out—monkeys often scurry around in the treetops here.
You can park right at the entrance to the park.
You'll say goodbye to Arenal and head out for the long drive to the Pacific. It's about 170 km and roughly a three-and-a-half-hour drive to the crocodile bridge in Tárcoles, followed by the first beach and the resort town of Jacó.
Try to reach Quepos before dark – the access roads in the hills above the town can be rocky and tricky at night.
The bridge over the Tárcoles River is located right on the main highway along the coast. Park at one of the cafes by the bridge – a hot chocolate after a long drive hits the spot – and walk across the bridge.
From the bridge, you look down at the massive crocodiles basking on the banks. How many you'll see depends on the water level: when the river is high after the rains, there are usually fewer, while at other times whole groups of them are lying there.
A little further south, turn off towards Playa Mantas – your first encounter with the Pacific. You can park your car right by the beach for a voluntary donation.
The beach is truly beautiful, just keep an eye on your things. The local monkeys are cheeky and experienced: leave a trunk or backpack unattended for even a minute and you'll lose your snack. The monkeys even know how to open backpacks, so keep your food locked inside the car.
Then continue to Jacó, a surf town packed with American tourists. Grab a coffee here and head up to the Mirador de Jacó viewpoint above the city.
From the viewpoint, there's a beautiful view of the entire bay, and you'll often see pelicans gliding over the water. There's also a colorful Jacó sign, which is a popular spot for a photo.
You can stop and park right at the viewpoint.
Take the coastal road to Quepos. For dinner, head over to Soda Sánchez – a fantastic local spot serving authentic Costa Rican food that you’ll want to visit every day.
If you're in Quepos on a Friday, be sure to stroll through the local farmers' market.
You can find parking on the streets in downtown Quepos.
Spend the whole day in Costa Rica's most famous national park, where the rainforest meets turquoise beaches. Buy your tickets online in advance – they often sell out days ahead during the season.
In the evening, you can head back to Quepos for dinner, feel free to visit Soda Sánchez again.
From Quepos, you can reach the park in a few minutes by car. You can park for the whole day in paid parking lots just a short distance from the entrance. Don't bring drinks in plastic bottles, any other plastic items, or food – they check backpacks at the entrance and will throw away anything prohibited. There are water fountains along the main path, and you'll only find restrooms at the entrance and then near the beach. Check the opening days and hours in advance.
Consider a guided tour. Many animals sit high in the canopy or are so small that you'll miss them without binoculars and an experienced eye – without a guide, you could easily walk for an hour and only see a snake. The tour takes a little over an hour, and after that, you can explore the park on your own.
You can walk along the main path to the loop trail on the Punta Catedral peninsula. You'll see plenty of animals here even without a guide—small deer often graze along the trail and you can hear monkeys in the treetops.
The viewpoints along the loop offer stunning views of the sea cliffs and the waves crashing against them. The trail goes uphill in places, so make sure to take plenty of water.
From Punta Catedral, head straight down to the beaches inside the park. The water is calm and crystal clear, lizards run around on the sand, and you might spot a sleeping sloth in the tree canopy above—feel free to take an hour to watch it.
Stay on the beach until the afternoon, then walk back to the exit and your car. Keep your backpack with you at all times; the monkeys know how to open them.
You'll head south to the surfing spot Uvita – and on the way, you'll see one of the biggest highlights of the entire trip, the Nauyaca waterfalls.
In the morning, head by car for breakfast at the El Avión bar in the hills above Manuel Antonio. The restaurant is set inside the fuselage of an old cargo plane, and the terrace offers a stunning view of the coast. It's more of an Instagram-friendly spot geared toward American tourists, and the prices reflect that, but the experience and location are worth it. Check their opening hours in advance—if they aren't open in the morning, grab breakfast somewhere else and stop by here at least for a coffee with a view.
Keep an eye out around you and above the road—sloths sleep in the treetops along the way, and you might even spot a toucan flying across the road.
You can park right at the restaurant.
Take the coastal road to Dominical, a laid-back surf town. Take a stroll down the main street and along the beach – you'll find some cool shops and spots.
If you want to try surfing tomorrow, book a lesson today. Dominical is one of the best surfing beaches in the country, and instructors teach even complete beginners here.
You can park by the beach at the end of the main street.
From Dominical, a road leads inland to the Nauyaca Waterfalls office. You need to book your entry online in advance (you can find the link near the airport). Once there, check in at the office as a visitor, pay for your entry, and cover parking if needed.
From the parking lot, you're looking at about a four-kilometer trek one way over gravel and mud, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
The path from the parking area leads through the forest to the falls. At the entrance, you'll find changing rooms, restrooms, and water fountains, and there's a long set of stairs leading down to the water.
Nauyaca is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Costa Rica—a massive cascade with a large pool that’s perfect for a swim. Bring your swimsuit and water shoes. Make sure to leave enough time for the trip back so you can reach Uvita before dark.
Morning on a surfboard, then breakfast in Dominical, and the rest of the day on the endless beach of Marino Ballena National Park.
In the morning, you'll drive back to Dominical for a surf lesson. Private lessons lasting about two hours usually include an instructor, board and gear rental, and often a snack too. Even complete beginners can manage to stand up on the board and ride their first waves here.
With a bit of luck, you'll see parrots in the treetops by the beach.
You can park by the beach again.
After your lesson, walk over to Café Mono Congo right in Dominical for breakfast – it's honestly some of the best breakfast you'll have on the whole trip.
The little shop next door has some nice souvenirs at reasonable prices; they usually have a better selection there than anywhere else on the route.
Then you will move on to Uvita to the Marino Ballena National Park. You can buy tickets on the spot, but they only accept cards. The park has several entrances, and at some of them, there are so few people that you can walk along the endless beach without meeting a single soul.
During the season, you can watch whales here – usually from about December to April and from July to October, but be sure to check the exact dates.
Walk along the beach to the Punta Uvita headland, known as the Whale Tail – a sandbar that looks like a whale's tail fin from above. The path is about 3 km long, and you can only reach the tip of the tail at low tide, so check the tide charts beforehand.
You'll need to wade across a small stream on the way, so be careful there – crocodiles live in the area. Don't sit on your towel right by the water. On the way back, keep an eye on the trees; colorful parrots often hang out there.
The longest stretch of the whole trip – from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Expect about 500 km and ten hours of driving without stops. Leave as early as possible in the morning, you really don't want to be driving in Costa Rica after dark.
From the coast, drive up into the mountains to the picturesque town of Santa María de Dota, a place synonymous with coffee. Stop by Cafetería Coopedota for an excellent cup of coffee from the local cooperative, and feel free to stock up for home.
Then, take a stroll through the town's streets and check out the interesting local cemetery. For coffee lovers, this stop is a small highlight of the whole trip.
You can park at the café or in the streets around the square.
From Dota, continue by car to Cartago, the former capital of Costa Rica. The city itself isn't particularly beautiful, but you should at least stop by the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It’s the country's most important pilgrimage site, where pilgrims travel from as far as San José to honor the Black Madonna, known as La Negrita.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots near the basilica, not along the road. If you have extra time, you can also drive from Cartago to the nearby Irazú Volcano.
You can walk to the main square where you'll find the ruins of the Santiago Apóstol church, which was never finished due to earthquakes. Inside the walls, there's a landscaped garden that's perfect for a short stroll.
From Cartago, you have a long drive ahead to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast. Leave as early as possible – the route goes through the mountains and then along the coast, which can be challenging after dark.
A day on the Caribbean coast: wild beaches, a jungle full of animals, and an evening in Costa Rica's liveliest town.
After breakfast, drive south to the village of Manzanillo at the end of the coastal road. Make sure to take at least a short walk along its wild beach with palm trees and a shipwreck in the shallow water.
From the beach, you can walk to the entrance of the Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge. There is no official admission fee, but you need to sign the guest book and a voluntary donation is expected. There are restrooms just past the entrance.
The trail leads through the rainforest along wild beaches, and you'll see plenty of animals here—families of toucans, sloths, monkeys, and giant spiders. Wear sturdy shoes, as you'll often be wading through mud.
In the afternoon, you'll drive back to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a small town with a real Caribbean vibe. You'll find plenty of souvenir shops, food stalls, and beaches right in the center.
The town really comes alive at night—go catch some live music and grab a margarita. You might get offered weed on the street; just politely decline.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots in the town center.
Spend the whole day on the Cahuita National Park coastal trail between the jungle and the beaches. You'll walk about 10 km, and it's not a loop—you'll take a local bus back to your car.
You can drive from Puerto Viejo north to the entrance of Cahuita National Park in Puerto Vargas. There are two entrances to the park – Puerto Vargas and Kelly Creek right in Cahuita – and it's best to enter at one and walk through the park to the other. At the entrance, you pay the admission fee and sign the guest book.
Bring your swimsuit, plenty of water, and something to eat. Keep your food well-sealed, as monkeys here climb into people's backpacks.
The parking lot is right at the entrance to the park.
Walk the coastal trail through the park all the way to the Kelly Creek entrance in Cahuita. Along the way, you'll find plenty of beautiful beaches for a swim and animals at every turn – two species of monkeys, sloths, raccoons, and coatis.
From Cahuita, a local bus will take you back to the first entrance and your car for just a few colones.
Your last day with the car, featuring a long drive from the Caribbean back to the Central Valley. You'll break up the journey with stops in the port city of Limón and in San José, ending your evening right back where you started – in Alajuela near the airport.
On your way, you'll stop by car in the port city of Limón. Honestly – if you skip it, you won't miss anything essential. However, it's fine for a short break: take a walk through the center via Vargas Park with its tall palm trees towards the harbor and keep going.
You can park in one of the guarded parking lots in the center.
After a long drive, you'll arrive in San José. Leave your car in a secure parking lot near the center and head out into the streets. Start at the Mercado Central, a bustling market filled with stalls selling fruit, coffee, spices, and small eateries.
It's just a few minutes' walk to the historic Correos de Costa Rica post office building. Next to it, you'll find the colorful SJO sign, a popular photo spot, and there are plenty of cafes nearby for a quick break.
Don't linger too long in San José; there are many more beautiful places in Costa Rica, and heavy downpours are common here in the afternoon. After that, head by car to Alajuela and pick up your last souvenirs at a supermarket.
Departure day. Before your flight, drop off your rental car at the airport – make sure to leave enough time for the return and check-in.
Make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare – returning your rental car and getting to the terminal takes a while. It's worth grabbing your last coffee and souvenirs at a supermarket beforehand, as the selection at the airport is usually smaller.
Pura vida isn't just a greeting here, but a way of life – and after two weeks among sloths, waterfalls, and beaches, you'll likely understand it too.
Before you leave, check the current status of national parks and volcanoes, ticket reservations, and the weather forecast: during the rainy season, parks sometimes close temporarily due to high water, and roads can get rough. Have a safe trip!
Costa Rica is a land of sloths, volcanoes, and rainforests that end right on the beach. This road trip by rental car takes you through the very best of it: from the smoking crater of Poás to the waterfalls and hanging bridges under the Arenal volcano, to the Pacific beaches of Manuel Antonio and the surfing hotspot of Dominical – and then across the mountains through the coffee region of Dota to the wild Caribbean coast.
You'll spot toucans, monkeys, and crocodiles, swim under waterfalls and in a hot river in the middle of the jungle, hop on a surfboard, and taste amazing coffee right where it grows.
Arrival day. After landing, you'll pick up your rental car at the airport and spend your first night nearby. Tomorrow morning, you'll head off for your first adventures.
Your journey begins and ends at Juan Santamaría International Airport. There is usually a long queue at passport control, but the process itself is generally hassle-free. All you need for entry is a passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date and an outbound flight ticket. If you are transiting through Canada or the USA, don't forget your ETA or ESTA electronic travel authorization. Check the current entry requirements before your trip.
After arrival, pick up your rental car at the airport – it's the easiest way to get around Costa Rica. Keep in mind that the roads are winding and navigation apps significantly underestimate travel times: 75 km can easily take three hours. The sun sets around 5 or 6 PM and it gets pitch black afterward, so plan your drives during daylight hours. In the mountains (like on the way to Poás), there is often no signal, so download offline maps.
Money: bring cash in US dollars, as they are commonly accepted alongside the local colón. You can exchange money at the bank, but it's usually a very slow process, even right after opening. Cash is mainly useful for parking, small entrance fees, and voluntary donations at reserves. Conversely, at Marino Ballena National Park, they only accept cards.
Tickets and reservations: buy tickets for Volcán Poás and Manuel Antonio National Parks online in advance. Tickets for Poás cannot be bought on-site, and Manuel Antonio is often sold out for days in advance during the season. An online reservation is required for Nauyaca Waterfalls. Other places (Bogarin Trail, La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico, Marino Ballena, Cahuita, Gandoca-Manzanillo) are paid for on the spot. Opening hours and entry conditions change, so check them before every visit.
Buy tickets to national parks here
Book your visit to Nauyaca Waterfalls here
Pack some insect repellent, sturdy shoes, water shoes, and a raincoat in your backpack – tropical rain is more of a rule than an exception here.
Start your day in Alajuela and then head into the mountains to one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. On the way, it's worth stopping at one of the coffee plantations on the slopes to have your first real Costa Rican coffee.
In the afternoon, you'll travel to the La Fortuna area below the Arenal volcano.
In the morning, take a walk around Alajuela's main square, with its park and surrounding churches. The town is most lively during the day and offers a pleasant first taste of the Costa Rican atmosphere. You can park on the nearby streets.
If you need to exchange money, you'll find banks around the square. Get there right at opening time, but still expect a long wait – there's usually a queue from the morning.
The road from Alajuela climbs into the mountains, and your mobile signal will gradually disappear along the way. You'll park at the national park's visitor center; parking fees are paid separately on-site.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance; you can't buy them at the gate (you'll find the link near the airport). However, there is strong Wi-Fi at the park entrance, so if you leave your reservation until the last minute due to weather, you can still buy it there.
From the parking lot, you walk along a paved path to the viewpoint above the main crater.
The crater is often shrouded in clouds so thick you can't see a meter in front of you. Don't give up—wait a while; the clouds often break, and the view into the smoking crater with its acidic lake is a real experience. A well-maintained trail leads around the volcano, and after about three kilometers, you'll reach another crater with the Botos lagoon.
The volcano is very active, and the park closes temporarily during periods of increased activity. Before you head out, check the current status and opening hours. Bring a jacket; it's cold and wet up there.
Your first full day under Arenal volcano. Due to jet lag, you'll probably wake up very early – take advantage of it, as the jungle is most vibrant in the morning.
Spend the morning on a jungle trail looking for wildlife, the afternoon soaking in a hot river, and the evening taking a stroll through the town of La Fortuna.
Bogarin Trail is located on the edge of the town of La Fortuna. It's about a two-kilometer jungle loop that you can manage without a guide – and you can re-enter multiple times throughout the day with the same ticket.
If you keep a close eye on the treetops, you'll see a lot: sloths, armadillos, hummingbirds, lizards, frogs, giant ants, and basilisks. It's the perfect place to spot a sloth on your very first day. Bring some bug spray; there are plenty of mosquitoes here.
Leave your car in the parking lot at the entrance to the reserve.
Then you'll head to the El Chollín thermal river, which flows through the rainforest below Arenal. You'll often see vendors selling fresh coconuts along the road on the way – a quick stop is definitely worth it.
There's no entrance fee, you just pay for parking, even along the roadside. Swimming in a warm river in the middle of the jungle is a "wild" experience with no facilities, so bring water shoes and a towel. If you prefer more comfort, there are plenty of thermal resorts nearby with standard pools.
At the end of the day, head back to La Fortuna and check out El Salto, where people swing on a rope and jump into the river. It looks awesome, but it's dangerous—after heavy rain, the river gets flooded and nobody swims or swings there. Only get in the water when it’s calm, and do it at your own risk.
After that, take a walk around the town of La Fortuna and wrap up your day with dinner at one of the local sodas.
You can park by the road near the river—just don't leave any valuables visible in your car.
A day of two great experiences beneath the Arenal volcano. Some people occasionally call the La Fortuna area overrated—don't let that put you off, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica.
Head to the waterfall by car right when it opens, you'll be almost alone in the morning. You can buy tickets on-site. The facilities are top-notch: a water fountain, toilets, changing rooms, and well-maintained stairs—there are about five hundred of them heading down.
After heavy rain, the waterfall is powerful, and you can't swim in the pool underneath—you can take a dip in the river nearby instead. Water shoes are really handy here. Check the opening hours in advance.
Tip: there's a stand with excellent specialty coffee by the parking lot (a shack with a 'Specialty Coffee' sign). Stop by for one after you climb back up the stairs.
Then you'll move to the other side of the volcano to Mistico Park. You'll walk along fixed and hanging bridges above the rainforest, with views of the majestic Arenal opening up along the way. The longest bridge is about 95 meters long and there's a 45-meter drop below you—even those with a fear of heights can handle it, and it's well worth it.
You can choose a shorter loop of about 1.5 km or a longer one of about 3 km. Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths can be wet. If the forecast is bad, there are usually fewer people around, and a light tropical rain doesn't ruin the experience at all. Keep an eye out—monkeys often scurry around in the treetops here.
You can park right at the entrance to the park.
You'll say goodbye to Arenal and head out for the long drive to the Pacific. It's about 170 km and roughly a three-and-a-half-hour drive to the crocodile bridge in Tárcoles, followed by the first beach and the resort town of Jacó.
Try to reach Quepos before dark – the access roads in the hills above the town can be rocky and tricky at night.
The bridge over the Tárcoles River is located right on the main highway along the coast. Park at one of the cafes by the bridge – a hot chocolate after a long drive hits the spot – and walk across the bridge.
From the bridge, you look down at the massive crocodiles basking on the banks. How many you'll see depends on the water level: when the river is high after the rains, there are usually fewer, while at other times whole groups of them are lying there.
A little further south, turn off towards Playa Mantas – your first encounter with the Pacific. You can park your car right by the beach for a voluntary donation.
The beach is truly beautiful, just keep an eye on your things. The local monkeys are cheeky and experienced: leave a trunk or backpack unattended for even a minute and you'll lose your snack. The monkeys even know how to open backpacks, so keep your food locked inside the car.
Then continue to Jacó, a surf town packed with American tourists. Grab a coffee here and head up to the Mirador de Jacó viewpoint above the city.
From the viewpoint, there's a beautiful view of the entire bay, and you'll often see pelicans gliding over the water. There's also a colorful Jacó sign, which is a popular spot for a photo.
You can stop and park right at the viewpoint.
Take the coastal road to Quepos. For dinner, head over to Soda Sánchez – a fantastic local spot serving authentic Costa Rican food that you’ll want to visit every day.
If you're in Quepos on a Friday, be sure to stroll through the local farmers' market.
You can find parking on the streets in downtown Quepos.
Spend the whole day in Costa Rica's most famous national park, where the rainforest meets turquoise beaches. Buy your tickets online in advance – they often sell out days ahead during the season.
In the evening, you can head back to Quepos for dinner, feel free to visit Soda Sánchez again.
From Quepos, you can reach the park in a few minutes by car. You can park for the whole day in paid parking lots just a short distance from the entrance. Don't bring drinks in plastic bottles, any other plastic items, or food – they check backpacks at the entrance and will throw away anything prohibited. There are water fountains along the main path, and you'll only find restrooms at the entrance and then near the beach. Check the opening days and hours in advance.
Consider a guided tour. Many animals sit high in the canopy or are so small that you'll miss them without binoculars and an experienced eye – without a guide, you could easily walk for an hour and only see a snake. The tour takes a little over an hour, and after that, you can explore the park on your own.
You can walk along the main path to the loop trail on the Punta Catedral peninsula. You'll see plenty of animals here even without a guide—small deer often graze along the trail and you can hear monkeys in the treetops.
The viewpoints along the loop offer stunning views of the sea cliffs and the waves crashing against them. The trail goes uphill in places, so make sure to take plenty of water.
From Punta Catedral, head straight down to the beaches inside the park. The water is calm and crystal clear, lizards run around on the sand, and you might spot a sleeping sloth in the tree canopy above—feel free to take an hour to watch it.
Stay on the beach until the afternoon, then walk back to the exit and your car. Keep your backpack with you at all times; the monkeys know how to open them.
You'll head south to the surfing spot Uvita – and on the way, you'll see one of the biggest highlights of the entire trip, the Nauyaca waterfalls.
In the morning, head by car for breakfast at the El Avión bar in the hills above Manuel Antonio. The restaurant is set inside the fuselage of an old cargo plane, and the terrace offers a stunning view of the coast. It's more of an Instagram-friendly spot geared toward American tourists, and the prices reflect that, but the experience and location are worth it. Check their opening hours in advance—if they aren't open in the morning, grab breakfast somewhere else and stop by here at least for a coffee with a view.
Keep an eye out around you and above the road—sloths sleep in the treetops along the way, and you might even spot a toucan flying across the road.
You can park right at the restaurant.
Take the coastal road to Dominical, a laid-back surf town. Take a stroll down the main street and along the beach – you'll find some cool shops and spots.
If you want to try surfing tomorrow, book a lesson today. Dominical is one of the best surfing beaches in the country, and instructors teach even complete beginners here.
You can park by the beach at the end of the main street.
From Dominical, a road leads inland to the Nauyaca Waterfalls office. You need to book your entry online in advance (you can find the link near the airport). Once there, check in at the office as a visitor, pay for your entry, and cover parking if needed.
From the parking lot, you're looking at about a four-kilometer trek one way over gravel and mud, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
The path from the parking area leads through the forest to the falls. At the entrance, you'll find changing rooms, restrooms, and water fountains, and there's a long set of stairs leading down to the water.
Nauyaca is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Costa Rica—a massive cascade with a large pool that’s perfect for a swim. Bring your swimsuit and water shoes. Make sure to leave enough time for the trip back so you can reach Uvita before dark.
Morning on a surfboard, then breakfast in Dominical, and the rest of the day on the endless beach of Marino Ballena National Park.
In the morning, you'll drive back to Dominical for a surf lesson. Private lessons lasting about two hours usually include an instructor, board and gear rental, and often a snack too. Even complete beginners can manage to stand up on the board and ride their first waves here.
With a bit of luck, you'll see parrots in the treetops by the beach.
You can park by the beach again.
After your lesson, walk over to Café Mono Congo right in Dominical for breakfast – it's honestly some of the best breakfast you'll have on the whole trip.
The little shop next door has some nice souvenirs at reasonable prices; they usually have a better selection there than anywhere else on the route.
Then you will move on to Uvita to the Marino Ballena National Park. You can buy tickets on the spot, but they only accept cards. The park has several entrances, and at some of them, there are so few people that you can walk along the endless beach without meeting a single soul.
During the season, you can watch whales here – usually from about December to April and from July to October, but be sure to check the exact dates.
Walk along the beach to the Punta Uvita headland, known as the Whale Tail – a sandbar that looks like a whale's tail fin from above. The path is about 3 km long, and you can only reach the tip of the tail at low tide, so check the tide charts beforehand.
You'll need to wade across a small stream on the way, so be careful there – crocodiles live in the area. Don't sit on your towel right by the water. On the way back, keep an eye on the trees; colorful parrots often hang out there.
The longest stretch of the whole trip – from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Expect about 500 km and ten hours of driving without stops. Leave as early as possible in the morning, you really don't want to be driving in Costa Rica after dark.
From the coast, drive up into the mountains to the picturesque town of Santa María de Dota, a place synonymous with coffee. Stop by Cafetería Coopedota for an excellent cup of coffee from the local cooperative, and feel free to stock up for home.
Then, take a stroll through the town's streets and check out the interesting local cemetery. For coffee lovers, this stop is a small highlight of the whole trip.
You can park at the café or in the streets around the square.
From Dota, continue by car to Cartago, the former capital of Costa Rica. The city itself isn't particularly beautiful, but you should at least stop by the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It’s the country's most important pilgrimage site, where pilgrims travel from as far as San José to honor the Black Madonna, known as La Negrita.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots near the basilica, not along the road. If you have extra time, you can also drive from Cartago to the nearby Irazú Volcano.
You can walk to the main square where you'll find the ruins of the Santiago Apóstol church, which was never finished due to earthquakes. Inside the walls, there's a landscaped garden that's perfect for a short stroll.
From Cartago, you have a long drive ahead to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast. Leave as early as possible – the route goes through the mountains and then along the coast, which can be challenging after dark.
A day on the Caribbean coast: wild beaches, a jungle full of animals, and an evening in Costa Rica's liveliest town.
After breakfast, drive south to the village of Manzanillo at the end of the coastal road. Make sure to take at least a short walk along its wild beach with palm trees and a shipwreck in the shallow water.
From the beach, you can walk to the entrance of the Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge. There is no official admission fee, but you need to sign the guest book and a voluntary donation is expected. There are restrooms just past the entrance.
The trail leads through the rainforest along wild beaches, and you'll see plenty of animals here—families of toucans, sloths, monkeys, and giant spiders. Wear sturdy shoes, as you'll often be wading through mud.
In the afternoon, you'll drive back to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a small town with a real Caribbean vibe. You'll find plenty of souvenir shops, food stalls, and beaches right in the center.
The town really comes alive at night—go catch some live music and grab a margarita. You might get offered weed on the street; just politely decline.
Leave your car in one of the guarded parking lots in the town center.
Spend the whole day on the Cahuita National Park coastal trail between the jungle and the beaches. You'll walk about 10 km, and it's not a loop—you'll take a local bus back to your car.
You can drive from Puerto Viejo north to the entrance of Cahuita National Park in Puerto Vargas. There are two entrances to the park – Puerto Vargas and Kelly Creek right in Cahuita – and it's best to enter at one and walk through the park to the other. At the entrance, you pay the admission fee and sign the guest book.
Bring your swimsuit, plenty of water, and something to eat. Keep your food well-sealed, as monkeys here climb into people's backpacks.
The parking lot is right at the entrance to the park.
Walk the coastal trail through the park all the way to the Kelly Creek entrance in Cahuita. Along the way, you'll find plenty of beautiful beaches for a swim and animals at every turn – two species of monkeys, sloths, raccoons, and coatis.
From Cahuita, a local bus will take you back to the first entrance and your car for just a few colones.
Your last day with the car, featuring a long drive from the Caribbean back to the Central Valley. You'll break up the journey with stops in the port city of Limón and in San José, ending your evening right back where you started – in Alajuela near the airport.
On your way, you'll stop by car in the port city of Limón. Honestly – if you skip it, you won't miss anything essential. However, it's fine for a short break: take a walk through the center via Vargas Park with its tall palm trees towards the harbor and keep going.
You can park in one of the guarded parking lots in the center.
After a long drive, you'll arrive in San José. Leave your car in a secure parking lot near the center and head out into the streets. Start at the Mercado Central, a bustling market filled with stalls selling fruit, coffee, spices, and small eateries.
It's just a few minutes' walk to the historic Correos de Costa Rica post office building. Next to it, you'll find the colorful SJO sign, a popular photo spot, and there are plenty of cafes nearby for a quick break.
Don't linger too long in San José; there are many more beautiful places in Costa Rica, and heavy downpours are common here in the afternoon. After that, head by car to Alajuela and pick up your last souvenirs at a supermarket.
Departure day. Before your flight, drop off your rental car at the airport – make sure to leave enough time for the return and check-in.
Make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare – returning your rental car and getting to the terminal takes a while. It's worth grabbing your last coffee and souvenirs at a supermarket beforehand, as the selection at the airport is usually smaller.
Pura vida isn't just a greeting here, but a way of life – and after two weeks among sloths, waterfalls, and beaches, you'll likely understand it too.
Before you leave, check the current status of national parks and volcanoes, ticket reservations, and the weather forecast: during the rainy season, parks sometimes close temporarily due to high water, and roads can get rough. Have a safe trip!
