The Ultimate Costa Rica Road Trip Guide: Routes, Tips & Itineraries

Q: Can You do the Itinerary Below Without a Car?

Technically, yes, I think it should be possible. But should you? Probably not . Buses and even shared shuttles reach most major towns, but they’re slow, infrequent, and occasionally just... don’t show up at all. Getting between spots like La Fortuna , Monteverde , and Manuel Antonio without your own wheels can quickly turn into a time-eating headache! Plus, you’ll miss the magic — hidden waterfalls, roadside sodas (local diner-type restaurants), and random wildlife sightings! We pulled over countless times for sloths, monkeys, and coatis — moments you’d never get from a bus window. This Costa Rica road trip guide is designed for travelers who want total freedom , flexibility , and adventure . So while public transport can get you from A to B, renting your own car is easily the best (and least stressful) way to experience the country.

Q: Can You do a Campervan Road Trip in Costa Rica?

You might be wondering if you can turn your Costa Rica road trip into a campervan adventure — after all, beaches + campervan camping sounds like a dream combo! But Costa Rica really isn’t built for campervans. The roads are narrow, winding, steep, and oftentimes unpaved or just rundown, plus official camping spots for campervans are limited. You can, however, get a car like this which is basically an SUV or truck with a built-in tent! This is a wonderful option for those wanting to truly immerse themselves in nature. Check out our FAQ below on wild camping and how to find spots if you do go this route! We generally suggest to stick with a 'normal' car, though, to opt for staying in cozy eco lodges, boutique hotels, or beach cabinas, to enjoy the best of both worlds — adventure and comfort. Plus, you’ll (hopefully) have air conditioning while sleeping in these spots vs. a tent and trust us, you’ll want it!

Q: When's the Best Time to do a Road Trip in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has two main seasons: dry and green / rainy . - Dry season (Dec–Apr for most of the country*) is the most popular time for a road trip. Expect sunny days, dry roads, and perfect all-day beach weather — but also many more tourists and higher prices. - Green season (May–Nov for most of the country*) means lush landscapes, lower costs, and fewer crowds. Just be prepared for daily afternoon showers, especially in the mountains. - Shoulder months like May, June, and November are often the sweet spot for balanced weather and smaller crowds. *Note: not all of the country follows these windows. Puerto Viejo and other cities along the southeast part of Costa Rica (the Caribbean coast) tend to have more sporadic windows. The dry times in PV, for example, are Feb-April and Aug-Oct! No matter when you go, though, you’ll certainly experience incredible scenery and wildlife — just be sure to pack accordingly!

Q: <strong>How is Parking in Costa Rica?</strong>

Oh boy. Parking in Costa Rica is quite the adventure, haha. Don't worry, you get the hand of it fast! Street parking is rare (and never on yellow lines or sidewalks!), so you’ll usually pay to park. Most places to park have “parking attendants” — locals in yellow vests who wave you into a spot and offer to “watch” your car for a small fee when you pay once you leave (₡1,000–2,000 colones, about $2–4 USD). Most aren’t official attendants, but paying them is usually worth it — it supports locals and keeps your car a bit safer from break-ins. Just don’t pay before you leave or you might get charged twice if a new attendant takes over while you are away! If you’d rather skip the fee, you can usually find free parking farther away (sometimes much further), but your car will be completely unattended. Car break-ins aren’t uncommon in Costa Rica, unfortunately, especially near beaches or isolated areas. 💡 Tip: Always hide valuables no matter where you park and don’t be shy about negotiating the attendant's quoted! Costa Rica is the land of bartering.

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Looking for the ultimate tropical adventure? This Costa Rica road trip guide will show you how to explore one of the most beautiful and adventure–packed countries on Earth.

Costa Rica may be small, but it’s bursting with lush jungles, active volcanoes, hidden waterfalls, exotic wildlife, colorful towns, stunning beaches, and endless outdoor adventures — all wrapped up in that laid-back pura vida vibe.

With so much variety packed into one little country, the best way to experience it all is from behind your own wheel on an unforgettable Costa Rica road trip.

In 2022 for our honeymoon, we set off on our own epic journey, taking over four weeks to travel through rainforests, beach towns, and mountain passes — and we were instantly hooked. Costa Rica is still, to this day, one of our favorite countries we have ever visited!

And so after all those months of research and then more than a month of exploring (plus a fair bit of getting lost on jungle roads, haha), we’ve crafted this ultimate Costa Rica road trip guide to help you plan your own adventure with ease and see as much of the country as possible.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to hit the road — from essential driving tips and itinerary ideas to can’t-miss destinations and hidden gems across the country.

Enjoy! 🚗💨

Short on Time?

Here’s the quick version of our ultimate Costa Rica road trip guide!

Costa Rica is best explored by car — from volcano viewpoints and misty cloud forests to surf towns, jungles, and secret waterfalls. Whether you follow our full, month-long Costa Rica road trip itinerary or create your own, we recommend at least 3 days per region (making at least 16 days if you want to explore all the four, main regions we mention below!).

Don’t miss Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Rio Celeste, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the laid-back Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo — plus our favorite hidden gems, all marked with a 💎 emoji below!

Expect lush rainforests, tropical beaches, winding mountain drives, exotic wildlife, and plenty of pura vida moments along the way.

So pack your swimsuit, your sense of adventure, and enjoy!

FAQ for Your Costa Rica Road Trip (Planning, Troubleshooting, & More)

an image of Santa Elena in Costa Rica from above, With lush green hills and the ocean in the distance.

Before you buckle up and blast your tropical playlist, there are a few key things to know to make your Costa Rica road trip as smooth, safe, and unforgettable as possible.

Whether you’re planning our full month-long trip or a shorter adventure between rainforest and beach, this section of our Costa Rica road trip guide will make sure you’re ready to go!

From the best time to book to driving tips, parking advice, safety info, and what to do if your GPS suddenly loses signal in the jungle (because trust us, it’ll happen).

Think of this as your mini on-the-go survival guide for cruising smoothly through Costa Rica’s wild rainforests, winding mountain roads, and sunny coastlines.

Technically, yes, I think it should be possible. But should you? Probably not.

Buses and even shared shuttles reach most major towns, but they’re slow, infrequent, and occasionally just… don’t show up at all. Getting between spots like La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio without your own wheels can quickly turn into a time-eating headache!

Plus, you’ll miss the magic — hidden waterfalls, roadside sodas (local diner-type restaurants), and random wildlife sightings! We pulled over countless times for sloths, monkeys, and coatis — moments you’d never get from a bus window.

This Costa Rica road trip guide is designed for travelers who want total freedom, flexibility, and adventure. So while public transport can get you from A to B, renting your own car is easily the best (and least stressful) way to experience the country.

Renting a car in Costa Rica is luckily very easy and straightforward!

You’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country, a credit card (with enough to cover the deposit), and to be at least 21–25 years old depending on the rental company.

Automatic cars are common, and we definitely recommend choosing one unless you’re 100% confident handling a manual on some crazy, winding mountain roads!

Pick-up points like San José Airport (SJO) or Liberia Airport (LIR) usually offer the best rates and widest selection. We like comparing prices on Booking or Kayak, but a great local service and the one we ended up using and highly recommend is Zuma Rent a Car. We loved them!!

⚠️ Note: most companies claim car insurance is mandatory in Costa Rica — even if your credit card includes rental coverage. This isn’t always true! Our credit card, Chase Sapphire Preferred, truly does have full coverage and so we were able to refuse the added insurance.

If your card does not fully cover you (please double check with both your card and the car rental agency beforehand!), expect this to be a significant addition to your rental cost. Always double-check what’s included in your booking price and if it is final, as these costs can be snuck in right before the booking is finished processed (or even when you pick the car up!!) and it can be quite the shock.

You might be wondering if you can turn your Costa Rica road trip into a campervan adventure — after all, beaches + campervan camping sounds like a dream combo!

But Costa Rica really isn’t built for campervans. The roads are narrow, winding, steep, and oftentimes unpaved or just rundown, plus official camping spots for campervans are limited.

You can, however, get a car like this which is basically an SUV or truck with a built-in tent! This is a wonderful option for those wanting to truly immerse themselves in nature. Check out our FAQ below on wild camping and how to find spots if you do go this route!

We generally suggest to stick with a ‘normal’ car, though, to opt for staying in cozy eco lodges, boutique hotels, or beach cabinas, to enjoy the best of both worlds — adventure and comfort. Plus, you’ll (hopefully) have air conditioning while sleeping in these spots vs. a tent and trust us, you’ll want it!

Technically, yes, but it’s still a bit tricky.

Charging stations are popping up more and more, though, especially in San José and along the Pacific Coast! They are still a bit limited in rural or mountainous areas, but with a bit of planning you should be alright.

If you do choose to rent an EV, plan your charging stops with PlugShare or a similar site / app, and check if your accommodations might have EV access as well!

Driving in Costa Rica is its own adventure, haha, but no worries – it’s nothing to be scared of!

Expect narrow roads, lots of unexpected potholes, and the occasional loose cow or dog in the middle of the road. So long as you remain concentrated on the road, these are no big deal and you get used to it very quickly.

Most difficult to navigate is the weather. Rainstorms can appear out of nowhere and quickly turn roads into rivers, so pull over somewhere safe if the rain gets too heavy and/or when visibility starts to get bad.

Drive cautiously, avoid night driving if possible (especially outside cities where it is pitch black!), and always keep your GPS or offline maps handy — Waze is the only worthwhile map app in Costa Rica.

Locals drive confidently and quickly, but not aggressively. Honking is pretty frequent and usually just a friendly “hey, I’m here” beep, rather than a sign of road rage.

Just relax, take it slow, and enjoy the journey — there’s a reason pura vida applies even on the roads!

Costa Rica has two main seasons: dry and green / rainy.

– Dry season (Dec–Apr for most of the country*) is the most popular time for a road trip. Expect sunny days, dry roads, and perfect all-day beach weather — but also many more tourists and higher prices.
– Green season (May–Nov for most of the country*) means lush landscapes, lower costs, and fewer crowds. Just be prepared for daily afternoon showers, especially in the mountains.
– Shoulder months like May, June, and November are often the sweet spot for balanced weather and smaller crowds.

*Note: not all of the country follows these windows. Puerto Viejo and other cities along the southeast part of Costa Rica (the Caribbean coast) tend to have more sporadic windows. The dry times in PV, for example, are Feb-April and Aug-Oct!

No matter when you go, though, you’ll certainly experience incredible scenery and wildlife — just be sure to pack accordingly!

Costa Rica’s weather can change crazy fast — sunshine one minute, downpour the next!

Here’s what you’ll want on hand no matter which region you visit:

– Lightweight, breathable clothes (as many quick-dry items as possible, as the high humidity prevents most clothing from ever fully drying otherwise!)
– A good waterproof jacket or rain poncho (and we do mean waterPROOF, not just resistant)
– Hiking boots, waterproof shoes, and/or sports sandals with good grip, especially for muddy trails
– A reusable water bottle (bottled water is safest in Costa Rica and we like to buy giant bottles to keep in the car to empty into our own as needed)
– Mosquito repellent
– Swimsuits and reef-safe sunscreen
– Cash in small bills for any smaller shops and roadside stops

Optional but highly recommended: binoculars, a camera for wildlife shots (bonus if it’s an underwater or action camera!!), a power bank for charging on the go, a first aid kit, and a good sense of humor for when the rain starts sideways 🌧️

P.S – Check out our city-specific packing list ideas for each of the four stops on our road trip itinerary: La Fortuna, Monteverde, Puerto Viejo, and Quepos & Manuel Antonio!

Costa Rica may look tiny on a map, but don’t let that fool you — driving times are much longer than expected! Between curvy mountain roads, potholes galore, slow trucks, and the occasional cow or sloth crossing the road, you’ll need to take things pretty slow.

Here’s a rough time guide to help you plan your itinerary:

San José → La Fortuna: ~3.5 hours
La Fortuna → Monteverde: ~3–3.5 hours
San José → Monteverde: ~3.5 hours
Monteverde → Manuel Antonio (Quepos): ~4.5 hours
Manuel Antonio (Quepos) → San José: ~3 hours
San José → Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: ~5 hours
Liberia → La Fortuna: ~3 hours
Liberia → Manuel Antonio (Quepos): ~4.5 hours

👉 Always budget extra time for photo stops, snack breaks, bathroom detours, and random wildlife encounters — they’re all part of the Costa Rica road trip magic!

Yup, you’ll likely run into a few tolls along your Costa Rica road trip — mostly on the main highways between San José and the Pacific Coast.

Don’t worry though, they’re pretty cheap! Most range from about $0.50 to $2 USD, and many accept credit cards, local colones, or even USD.

That said, it’s smart to keep a small stash of colones handy — it makes things faster and you’ll avoid the very unfavorable exchange rates that are always present when you pay for anything in Costa Rica with US cash.

Note: make sure to stay away from the ‘Quick Pass’ lanes at tolls, as these are just for locals with special passes!

Oh boy. Parking in Costa Rica is quite the adventure, haha. Don’t worry, you get the hand of it fast!

Street parking is rare (and never on yellow lines or sidewalks!), so you’ll usually pay to park.

Most places to park have “parking attendants” — locals in yellow vests who wave you into a spot and offer to “watch” your car for a small fee when you pay once you leave (₡1,000–2,000 colones, about $2–4 USD).

Most aren’t official attendants, but paying them is usually worth it — it supports locals and keeps your car a bit safer from break-ins. Just don’t pay before you leave or you might get charged twice if a new attendant takes over while you are away!

If you’d rather skip the fee, you can usually find free parking farther away (sometimes much further), but your car will be completely unattended. Car break-ins aren’t uncommon in Costa Rica, unfortunately, especially near beaches or isolated areas.

💡 Tip: Always hide valuables no matter where you park and don’t be shy about negotiating the attendant’s quoted! Costa Rica is the land of bartering.

In general, yes!

You cannot just pitch up your tent anywhere, though, as many areas in Costa Rica are private property and it is illegal to camp here.

Stick to official campsites (they’re usually extremely cheap), chat with locals or fellow travelers for free campstie tips, and always check for “No Camping” or “No Trespassing” signs.

Before setting up, look above and around you, as well — falling branches or coconuts are seriously no joke — and keep an eye on the weather. If a big storm’s coming, it’s likely best to grab a night in a nearby hostel or hotel instead.

Gas stations are frequent along major routes but can be few and far between in remote or coastal areas. We suggest filling up before heading through lesser-traveled regions.

All stations are also full service in Costa Rica, meaning attendants will pump your gas for you – a very fun surprise for first-timers! We were shocked our first trip here, haha.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but we suggest always keeping a bit of cash on hand just in case.

Google Maps can have some trouble, so we suggest avoiding it and just using the locally loved app: Waze!

We also generally suggest forgoing any rental car GPS system and still using Waze instead. It tends to perform better than any GPS the rental car would provide (with some exceptions, of course) and locals use Waze religiously!

This means that it is updated every minute with new warnings of animals in the road, accidents, flooding, debris, and more – keeping you safe and on time for your whole road trip.

💡 Pro Tip: Download some offline maps before your trip, as well — you’ll thank yourself when your phone signal disappears somewhere between Arenal and Monteverde.

While there are not many fixed speed cameras, there are some traffic police who will set up random roadside checks.

Speed limits are often lower than you expect, and fines can be very steep.

Always stick to the posted limits and stay slow if you are unsure! Or at least slower than the fastest few around you 😉

Most places, yes! In most tourist spots, hotels, and large restaurants you’ll always be able to use your card, but we suggest always keeping a bit of cash in colones for small roadside sodas (local diners), farmers’ markets, and other rural attractions.

ATMs and big banks are easy to find in most towns, though, if you need to take out some cash or exchange any money!

Dial 911 for all emergencies (police, fire, or ambulance).

For general roadside assistance (where nobody was injured), you should contact your car rental company for further info and guidance.

Many road signs are in Spanish only, but the symbols are the same that we all know and love and key terms are easy to learn:

Alto = Stop
Desvío = Detour
Ceda el paso = Yield
No estacionar = No parking

Note: distances are also in kilometers, and speed limits are in km/h, so keep that in mind when driving.

Yes, but a few Spanish phrases will go a long way – locals are so friendly and encouraging!

English is commonly spoken in tourist hubs, though, like La Fortuna, Tamarindo, and Manuel Antonio so you’ll have no issues there.

In rural or Caribbean areas English is less spoken, but you can still easily get by with a bit of patience and some useful apps (like Google Translate)!

As mentioned, locals are warm, patient, and will appreciate even a simple “Gracias” or “Buenos días“. Check out this site with tons of Spanish resources if you want to learn a bit before you leave!

Top Sights in Costa Rica (+ Hidden Gems):

A map of Costa Rica showing the different regions: Guanacaste in the North West, Alajuela in the north, Heredia next to Alajuela in the north, Limón in the east, Puntarenas spanning the south and south and central west coast, and then San José and Cartago in the central regions of Costa Rica. — The regions we used for categorizing the sights below

Ready to plan your stops? This next section of our Costa Rica road trip guide highlights the country’s must-see destinations and hidden gems — from the lush jungles of La Fortuna and the misty cloud forest of Monteverde to the golden beaches of Manuel Antonio and the laid-back, Caribbean surf towns of Puerto Viejo.

We’ve organized the top sights by region (see the map above!) so you can easily create your own dream route or mix and match stops from our pre-planned itineraries below.

Keep an eye out for the 💎 emoji — it marks Costa Rica’s hidden treasures: the under-the-radar waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints that most travelers completely miss!

Guanacaste

Rincón de la Vieja National Park – Active volcano with hot springs, waterfalls, and trails through dry and tropical forest.
Tamarindo Beach – A lively surf town with golden sand beaches, great waves for all levels, and a vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene.
Playa Conchal – Beautiful beach whose sand is made of crushed shells; crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling. Often considered one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches.
Nosara and Nicoya Peninsula – Laid-back surf and yoga town surrounded by beaches, mangroves, and wildlife refuges. A hub for wellness travel and eco-lodges.
Palo Verde National Park – Wetlands and mangrove ecosystem famous for birdwatching and boat tours along the Tempisque River.
Llanos del Cortés Waterfall – Wide and scenic waterfall near Bagaces with a calm natural pool for swimming. Easy to visit and family-friendly.
Barra Honda Caves – National park with limestone caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites, plus dry forest trails and lookouts.
💎 Playa Dantita – A quiet, secluded cove next to Playa Danta in Las Catalinas. Reachable via a short trail or kayak; soft sand, clear water, and peaceful atmosphere away from crowds.
💎 El Silencio (near Rincón de la Vieja) – Tranquil private reserve offering hiking trails through tropical forest, birdwatching, and monkey sightings — a less-crowded alternative to the main park.
💎 Eco-Museum of the Abangares Mines – Historic gold mining site turned open-air museum with walking paths and mining relics, highlighting Guanacaste’s cultural and economic past.

Alajuela

The almost neon blue waters of the Rio Celeste!

Poás Volcano National Park – An active volcano with one of the largest craters in the world, surrounded by misty cloud forest trails.
La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano – One of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, offering hot springs, rainforest hikes, waterfall rappelling, and views of the Arenal Volcano. (see our La Fortuna activity guide here!)
La Fortuna Waterfall – A 75-meter waterfall tumbling into a vivid blue pool; reachable via a scenic stair trail.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve – Magical forest filled with hanging bridges, orchids, hummingbirds, and more. Ideal for nature and photography lovers.
Rio Celeste & Tenorio Volcano National Park – Unreal electric-blue water with a waterfall, lush jungle trails, and suspension bridges.
💎 Tesoro Escondido Waterfall (Bajos del Toro) – Stunning hidden waterfall, reached via a peaceful jungle trail and surrounded by bright turquoise pools.
💎 La Leona Waterfall (Curubandé) – Hike through caves, rivers, and jungle canyons to reach a secret turquoise waterfall near Liberia.
💎 El Salto (La Fortuna) – A local swimming hole with a rope swing, small cliff jumps, and relaxed vibes close to town.
💎 El Choyin Hot Springs (La Fortuna) – A local favorite free hot spring spot along the Tabacón River. Relax in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush jungle — without the resort price tag.
💎 Los Chorros Waterfalls (Grecia) – Twin falls nestled in lush forest near the small town of Grecia — less touristy and perfect for a picnic and short hike.
💎 Cavernas de Venado – Underground cave system formed millions of years ago; expect a thrilling offbeat adventure!
💎 Angelina’s Gardens in La Fortuna – An amazing, small garden with so much variety and beauty, plus great views of Arenal Volcano.

Heredia

Braulio Carrillo National Park – Waterfalls, dense rainforest, hanging bridges, and misty mountain trails just an hour from San José.
Barva Volcano – A tranquil, cloud-covered volcano within Braulio Carrillo National Park. Offers crater lakes, peaceful trails, and far fewer crowds than Poás.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens – Five waterfalls, wildlife rescue exhibits, butterfly gardens, and cloud forest trails. Note: technically in Alajuela province, but often grouped with Heredia due to proximity – it’s only ~30 minutes from Braulio Carrillo!
Heredia City – Colonial architecture, colorful local markets, and a strong coffee culture.
💎 Monte de la Cruz Park – Panoramic views of the Central Valley, forested trails, and great picnic spots. A favorite local day trip.
💎 Bosque de la Hoja – Local favorite for forest walks, picnics, easy trails, and fresh mountain air.
💎 Sarapiquí River – Thrilling white-water rafting destination known for abundant wildlife, rainforest lodges, and birdwatching.
💎 Cascada de Las Golondrinas – Secluded waterfall near San Isidro de Heredia, surrounded by dense greenery and quiet hiking trails.

San José

La Sabana Metropolitan Park – The city’s “green lung” — a massive urban park perfect for jogging, picnics, paddle boating, and visiting the Costa Rican Art Museum.
Museo del Jade (Jade Museum) – Houses the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts; a fascinating look into ancient Costa Rican cultures.
San José Central Market (Mercado Central) – Bustling labyrinth of stalls offering local produce, traditional food, soouvenirs, and authentic daily life.
Teatro Nacional (National Theatre) – San José’s crown jewel of neoclassical architecture; attend a show or just pop inside for a peek!
💎 Barrio Escalante / Mercado Escalante – San José’s culinary hotspot with artisanal eateries, coffee shops, and craft beer bars — ideal for a relaxed evening stroll.
💎 San Gerardo de Dota – Cloud forest valley two hours from San José; a birdwatcher’s paradise famous for sightings of the Resplendent Quetzal!

Cartago

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles

Irazú Volcano National Park – Highest volcano in Costa Rica, with surreal lunar-like craters and views stretching to both oceans on clear days.
Orosí Valley – Lush, picturesque valley filled with coffee farms, hot springs, colonial churches, and scenic drives through misty hillsides. (Plus: 💎 Mirador de Orosí – a stunning panoramic viewpoint here!)
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles – The country’s most important pilgrimage site; an elegant basilica in downtown Cartago that draws thousands every August for the annual Romería.
Tapantí National Park – Misty cloud forest trails, rivers, and waterfalls perfect for hiking and birdwatching; one of the rainiest and greenest corners of Costa Rica.
Ruins of Ujarrás – Peaceful and historic remnants of one of Costa Rica’s oldest churches, surrounded by gardens.
💎 Los Quetzales National Park – A quiet park south of Cartago where you might catch a peek of the elusive resplendent quetzal!
💎 Cachi Lake & Dam – Scenic reservoir with viewpoints and charming roadside restaurants.
💎 Orosi Church & Museum – The oldest still-functioning church in Costa Rica (built in 1743); a small adjoining museum shares colonial-era artifacts and religious art.
💎 Parque Nacional La Marta – Hidden gem eco-reserve with rivers, waterfalls, ancient stone ruins, and great off-the-beaten-path hiking.

Limón

Playa Negra in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Cahuita National Park – White-sand beaches, coral reefs perfect for snorkeling, and easy rainforest trails where you can spot monkeys, sloths, raccoon, and more.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – Bohemian surf town full of Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae beats, beach bars, and lots of jungle-fringed beaches. (Be sure to check out Playa Negra, the black-sand beach, and our full PV guide).
Tortuguero National Park – Maze of canals and rainforest where you can spot caimans, monkeys, and river turtles; famous for its sea turtle nesting season (July–October).
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge – Stunning, lesser-crowded coastal reserve protecting mangroves, coral reefs, and rainforest trails that lead to secluded beaches.
Jaguar Rescue Center (near Puerto Viejo) – Excellent wildlife rehabilitation center; guided tours introduce you to rescued monkeys, sloths, and more, while explaining the rescue process.
Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica (near Puerto Viejo) – The original sloth rescue facility in Costa Rica; learn about conservation efforts and meet rescued sloths up close.
Punta Uva – Picture-perfect turquoise bay ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and relaxing under palm trees — one of Costa Rica’s most photogenic beaches.
BriBri Indigenous Reserve – Take a tour to visit and explore waterfalls, cacao farms, and learn about Indigenous culture, medicine, and crafts.
💎 Veragua Rainforest Park – Eco-adventure park off the beaten path featuring canopy trams, frog and butterfly exhibits, and rainforest trails.
💎 Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge – Extremely remote wetland paradise known for world-class tarpon fishing and boat-based wildlife tours; reachable only by river or small plane.

Puntarenas

Viewpoint within Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park – Costa Rica’s most famous national park for a reason; lush rainforest trails teeming with monkeys and sloths leading to beautiful beaches.
Corcovado National Park – The wild heart of the Osa Peninsula and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth; remote, raw, and unforgettable for wildlife lovers.
Bahia Ballena (Whale’s Tail Beach) – Named for its whale-tail–shaped sandbar, this marine park is ideal for snorkeling, tidepooling, and whale watching (especially August–October and December–April).
Jacó Beach – Energetic surf town close to San José, known for consistent waves, lively nightlife, and easy access to nearby waterfalls and viewpoints.
Pavones – Remote southern surf village near the Golfo Dulce, home to one of the longest left-hand waves in the world — a must for surf aficionados!
Nauyaca Waterfalls – Stunning two-tiered cascades near Dominical, with natural pools perfect for swimming; reached via hiking or horseback riding.
Damas Mangroves (Isla Damas Estuary) – Serene maze of mangrove tunnels near Quepos, best explored by kayak or guided boat tour to spot monkeys, crocodiles, and tropical birds.
Tárcoles Bridge – A quick roadside stop where you can peer over a river filled with enormous crocodiles — a Costa Rican road trip classic!
💎 Playa Punta Mala – Peaceful and lesser-visited stretch of coastline south of Jacó; ideal for long walks, wildlife spotting, and escaping the crowds.
💎 Los Campesinos Ecolodge – Hidden gem inland from Quepos featuring hanging bridges, forest trails, and natural pools.

Ultimate 30 Day Costa Rica Road Trip Route

A map showing our 30 day Costa Rica road trip from SJO aiport in San José, Costa Rica, on to Quepos and Manuel Antonio, back up to La Fortuna, over to Monteverde, back down through San José to get to Siquirres, down to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, and then all the way back up to San José to finish. The route looks like a blue line going at a diagonal from the bottom right of Costa Rica to the upper left and it appears fairly short and one-way, however due to repeating routes and switching back, it is actually longer than it appears! — Our route 🚗 It may look deceivingly short, but it is quite a lot and there is a bit of repetition on sections of the route you might not see at first glace!

Finally, we’ve made it to one of the best parts of this Costa Rica road trip guide — our handcrafted itinerary!

Whether you’re dreaming of horseback rides along golden beaches, thrilling nighttime wildlife tours, misty rainforest hikes, or relaxing days in laid-back surf towns, Costa Rica promises some of the most beautiful and adventurous drives in the world.

Below you’ll find our full 30-day Costa Rica road trip itinerary, plus ideas for shortening it if you’re tight on time — so you can still uncover as many stunning corners and hidden gems of this incredible country as possible.

Our 30-Day Road Trip:

If you’ve got one whole month to spend in Costa Rica, this is the ultimate bucket-list drive — from the Pacific Coast to the Caribbean, through cloud forests, rainforests, volcanoes, and mountain towns.

This flexible itinerary blends Costa Rica’s most iconic regions with hidden gems, weaving together nature, culture, and adventure in one unforgettable road trip loop. Tweak it as much as you want to match your pace!

🚗 Drive time: ~3.5 hours (160 km)

Kick off your adventure with a scenic drive to the coast! You’ll pass palm plantations and ocean views before reaching Quepos, the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park.

Tip: Stop for lunch in Jaco or check out Crocodile Bridge in Tarcoles to see dozens of massive crocs below. If you don’t have time today, just push it to day 7 when you drive to La Fortuna!

📍 Overnight in Quepos or Manuel Antonio

Spend a few sun-drenched days enjoying beaches, waterfalls, and rainforest wildlife.

🦥 Stroll through Manuel Antonio National Park, spot sloths and monkeys, and swim in its postcard-perfect coves.
🌊 Try parasailing, surf lessons, or a catamaran sunset cruise.
🍽️ Don’t miss eating at Soda el Angel – a traditional Costa Rican diner-type restaurant with great, cheap food. We loved breakfast here!

(See our full Manuel Antonio & Quepos guide for more ideas and info)

📍 Overnight in Quepos or Manuel Antonio

🚗 Drive time: ~5 hours (220 km)

Leave the coast behind and head inland toward Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks.

If you couldn’t before, now is your chance to stop at Jaco or Tarcoles bridge to spot the crocs! Otherwise, stop for a coffee and snacks in San Ramón to break up the trip

📍 Overnight in La Fortuna or El Castillo

This region is packed with adrenaline and relaxation.

🧗‍♀️ Go canyoning, zip-lining, or whitewater rafting.
🌋 Hike through Arenal Volcano National Park or swim at La Fortuna Waterfall.
♨️ End the day soaking in the natural hot springs surrounded by jungle.

(See our full La Fortuna guide for must-do activities and hidden gems – like FREE hot springs!)

📍 Overnight in La Fortuna or El Castillo

🚗 Drive time: ~3.5 hours (120 km)

Wind your way up into the misty Tilarán Mountains, passing rural farmland and incredible lake views.

Don’t miss: the photo stop at Lake Arenal Viewpoint or lunch at a local soda in Nuevo Arenal.

📍 Overnight in Santa Elena, Monteverde

Monteverde feels like another world — cool, misty, and filled with life.

🌿 Walk among the clouds at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
🌌 Join a night tour to see glowing insects and sleeping toucans.
🌅 Have a romantic, gourmet dinner in the trees complete with an ocean view at San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience!

(Read our Monteverde region and activity guide for more ideas)

📍 Overnight in Santa Elena, Monteverde

🚗 Drive time:

Monteverde → Siquirres: ~4.5 hours
Monteverde → Puerto Viejo (without stop): ~7.5 hours

If you’re craving adventure, break up the long drive east with an overnight in Siquirres for whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River — one of the best rafting spots in the world.

Prefer something calmer? Visit a cacao farm, a waterfall garden, or stay at an eco-lodge in the foothills.

If you are ready for a long drive and just want to get to PV as soon as possible, then feel free to skip Siquirres – just note that this many parts of this drive are not that nice, with lots of highway / freeway driving. It can get pretty boring pretty quick, so be sure to take lots of rest stops!

📍 Overnight in either Siquirres or Puerto Viejo

🚗 Drive time: ~3 hours

Continue your journey to the laid-back Caribbean Coast, where surf, reggae, and jungle vibes await!

Or, if you are already in PV and you have a full day here, skip to the next section!

📍 Overnight in Puerto Viejo

Welcome to paradise!

This is one of Matze and my favorite towns in all of Costa Rica!! The food is delicious, the vibe is so fun, and the shops are unique (though a bit pricey!).

🏝️ Spend your days beach-hopping between Cocles, Punta Uva, and Manzanillo.
🦜 Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, Sloth Sanctuary, or go snorkeling in Cahuita National Park.
🥥 Try Afro-Caribbean cuisine — especially coconut rice and spicy jerk chicken.

(See our Puerto Viejo guide for hidden gems and top tips.)

📍 Overnight in Puerto Viejo

🚗 Drive time: ~5.5 hours (220 km)

Return to the capital via scenic mountain roads. If you want to break up the drive, you can overnight again in Siquirres or Turrialba.

Bonus stops: Irazu Volcano, Guayabo Archaeological Site, or a coffee plantation tour.

📍 Overnight in Siquirres, Turrialba, or San José

Enjoy your final days in Costa Rica!

🏛️ Visit the National Museum, Mercado Central, or the Jade Museum.
🍽️ Try Costa Rican coffee at Café del Barista or Cafeoteca Coffee Shop.
🧭 Take a walking tour to explore the city’s culture and architecture before your flight home.

(You can also find more urban inspiration in our list of 100 things to do in Costa Rica! With lots of museum and city ideas at the bottom)

📍 Overnight in San José (and then home sweet home on day 30! Have a safe trip back)

Have less time? Here’s how to shorten your Costa Rica road trip:

Matze feeding a brown cow a bit of grass in Monteverde with rolling, lush green hills all aorund — Matze feeding one of the many, *many* sweet cows near our lodging in Monteverde

Love the idea of our full 30-day Costa Rica road trip, but can’t swing a full month away or just want to save a little on the budget? No worries! You can still experience the best of Costa Rica with a shorter itinerary that fits your schedule.

Which regions you keep or skip depends on your travel style and what stood out to you most above. Here’s how we suggest customizing it:

🌋 Adventure Seekers & Nature Lovers

If you crave adrenaline and the great outdoors, focus on La Fortuna, Monteverde, and decide between Quepos & Manuel Antonio or Puerto Viejo. Skip San José city time!

You’ll get volcano hikes, rainforest waterfalls, cloud forest canopy walks, and plenty of adventure — from ziplining and canyoning to whitewater rafting (the best rafting is in Siquirres, but you’ll also get some near La Fortuna!).

To help decide between Quepos or PV, check out our activity guide for each by clicking on their name! The guides also each contain an FAQ on the town so you’ll be able to decide which is more your vibe.

Suggested route: San José → La Fortuna → Monteverde → Manuel Antonio → San José or San José → Monteverde → (optional stop at Siquirres) Puerto Viejo → San José

➡️ Perfect for a 10–14 day Costa Rica trip!

🏝️ Beach Lovers & Sun Seekers

If your ideal trip means sandy toes and surfboards, stick to the Pacific Coast and Caribbean spots.

Split your time between Quepos & Manuel Antonio (for Manuel Antonio National Park, lots of wildlife, great beginner surfing, and clear-water beaches) and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca (for vibrant culture, coral reef snorkeling, more advanced surfing, and raw nature).

Suggested route: San José → Manuel Antonio → San José (just overnight to break up the drive) → Puerto Viejo → San José

➡️ Perfect for a 2-week, relaxing Costa Rica beach trip!

🏞️ Wildlife Watchers & Eco Travelers

Want to see sloths, toucans, and howler monkeys at every turn? Prioritize Costa Rica’s rainforests and reserves.

Spend extra time in La Fortuna and Monteverde, then head east to Tortuguero National Park to spot turtles, caimans, and rare birds along the canals.

Suggested route: San José → La Fortuna → Monteverde → Tortuguero → San José

➡️ Great for 12–16 days focused on wildlife and eco-lodges!

💞 Romantic Wanderers & Slow Travelers

Prefer a slower pace and more meaningful moments? Skip long drives and savor fewer regions for longer.

Stay 4–5 nights in Manuel Antonio for sunsets and oceanfront dinners, then unwind with your remaining days in La Fortuna with hot springs and rainforest views.

Suggested route: San José → Manuel Antonio → La Fortuna → San José

➡️ Ideal for a relaxing 7–10 day romantic Costa Rica escape!

🧭 Culture & Coffee Lovers

If you’re curious about Costa Rica beyond its beaches, skip some time in those regions and add more time in San José and a brief stay in Cartago.

Visit coffee plantations, local markets, and volcanoes like Irazú or Poás. Combine this with either La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, or even another spot of your choice (inspired from our list above!) for a well-rounded trip.

Suggested route: San José → Cartago → La Fortuna / Manuel Antonio /etc → San José

➡️ Perfect for 8–12 days of culture packed travel with a bit of nature!

Ready to Hit the Road in Costa Rica?

Becca walking with our tour guide to the Maleku tribe in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. The building in the back that they are walking to is made of wood and a canvas roof and the surroundings are vividly green grass and flora with pops of color in flowers and other plants. — Visiting the Maleku during a day tour in La Fortuna (**click for info on this tour and more in La Fortuna!**)

There you have it — the ultimate Costa Rica road trip guide! From volcano views and rainforest adventures to golden beaches and hidden jungle gems, Costa Rica is a country built for slow travel, scenic drives, and spontaneous detours.

Whether you follow our full 30-day itinerary or one of the shorter versions above, remember: enjoy the journey, as it is one of the best parts!

All those unplanned stops when you spot a sloth snoozing in a tree, a little soda serving the best casado of your life (thank you Soda el Angel in Quepos!!), a café that results into you becoming BFFS with the owners, or a sunset so beautiful you just have to pull over — those are the moments that make this country so unforgettable.

So grab your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. Cue up your favorite playlist, roll the windows down, and hit the open road!

Once you’ve road-tripped through Costa Rica’s mountains, jungles, and beaches, trust us — you’ll already be dreaming about when you can come back before you’re even back home.

The Ultimate Costa Rica Road Trip Guide: Routes, Tips & Itineraries

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FAQ for Your Costa Rica Road Trip (Planning, Troubleshooting, & More)