Magical Costa Rica Road Trip

Day 1: Shuttle Arrival From Sjo Airport To San José City

A local expert will greet you upon arrival at the airport to deliver all necessary information for a seamless start to your vacation. Following this welcome meeting you will enjoy a professional ground transfer to your first hotel. We prioritize your comfort and clarity from the moment you land in Costa Rica.

Day 2: Shuttle From San José To Tortuguero

Approximate Duration: 3 hours by road & 1 hour 30 minutes by boat Early Departure to Tortuguero At the designated time, meet at the hotel reception for your semi-shared transfer to the stunning Tortuguero region in Costa Rica’s North Caribbean. Recognized as one of the country’s premier ecotourism destinations, Tortuguero National Park was created in 1970 to safeguard endangered sea turtles that come to nest on its beaches. The park’s maze of canals, rivers, and lagoons presents a captivating blend of rainforest, freshwater, and marine habitats, making it an unparalleled spot for both research and nature tourism. En route, you’ll stop in the town of Guápiles to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a local, privately owned restaurant. Afterwards, continue to the pier, where you’ll embark on a scenic boat ride to Tortuguero. This journey offers a breathtaking preview of the rainforest, as you glide along meandering waterways surrounded by vibrant greenery and an abundance of wildlife—a true immersion into the natural beauty of the region. Welcome to Tortuguero Upon reaching the lodge, proceed with check-in, get settled in your room, and enjoy a delightful lunch. Later in the afternoon, meet your local guide for a visit to the picturesque village of Tortuguero. Home to around 500 inhabitants, this small community lies between the Caribbean Sea and peaceful canals. With no vehicles—only footpaths—Tortuguero invites you to step into the unhurried pace of Caribbean life. Wander through its colorful streets, engage with its warm-hearted residents, and soak in the vibrant spirit of this remote yet enchanting destination.

Day 3: Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour & Guided Walk Through The Lodge's Private Trails

Wake up early for an unforgettable morning immersed in nature. Join your guide for a sunrise boat tour through the stunning canals of Tortuguero National Park (entrance fee included), as the rainforest comes alive with the calls and movements of its wildlife. Glide through a vast network of waterways, lagoons, and lush rainforest while your expert naturalist guide helps you spot and photograph the park’s extraordinary biodiversity. Tortuguero is home to an impressive variety of wildlife—57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. Keep your eyes open for playful monkeys, elusive sloths, stealthy caimans, colorful toucans, and many other fascinating inhabitants of this unique ecosystem. After this magical experience, back to the lodge for a well-deserved breakfast. Later, at the scheduled time, set out with your guide for a nature walk along the lodge’s private trails. As you explore, you may encounter monkeys, sloths, toucans, frogs, and an array of exotic plants—a perfect opportunity for nature lovers to connect more closely with the wonders of the Costa Rican rainforest. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy your final moments in Tortuguero.

Day 4: Departure For La Fortuna, Arenal

Duration: 02 hours approx. * The provided time is approximate and may vary depending on the port where guests board or disembark. After breakfast, check out and prepare to continue your adventure. Board a shared transfer by boat and land from Tortuguero to Guápiles, where you will enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant. At the restaurant located in Guápiles, where the guests will enjoy the lunch and around 13h, the representant will arrive at the restaurant to drop off the car. From Guápiles to La Fortuna, Arenal Duration: 03 hours approx. Journey to La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano Before December 2010, Arenal was among the world’s ten most active volcanoes, regularly spewing molten rock and ash into the sky. While its lava eruptions have paused, the volcano remains an awe-inspiring sight, with occasional smoke and ash emissions from its summit. Upon arrival in La Fortuna, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax and unwind, enjoying the hotel’s facilities and the surrounding natural beauty.

Day 5: Discover La Fortuna, Arenal At Your Leisure

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before enjoying a full day of freedom to uncover the treasures of Arenal at your own pace. This region offers an impressive range of activities paired with awe-inspiring landscapes for every type of traveler. You may choose to soak in soothing natural hot springs where geothermal energy creates the perfect setting for rejuvenation. Adventure seekers can hike the historic lava trails of Arenal Volcano National Park or admire the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall. For more adrenaline you might feel the thrill of white-water rafting on the Balsa River or glide through the canopy on an exhilarating zipline. Today is your opportunity to create lasting memories in one of the most captivating regions of Costa Rica.

Day 6: Discover La Fortuna, Arenal At Your Leisure

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before enjoying a full day of freedom to uncover the treasures of Arenal at your own pace. This region offers an impressive range of activities paired with awe-inspiring landscapes for every type of traveler. You may choose to soak in soothing natural hot springs where geothermal energy creates the perfect setting for rejuvenation. Adventure seekers can hike the historic lava trails of Arenal Volcano National Park or admire the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall. For more adrenaline you might feel the thrill of white-water rafting on the Balsa River or glide through the canopy on an exhilarating zipline. Today is your opportunity to create lasting memories in one of the most captivating regions of Costa Rica.

Day 7: From La Fortuna, Arenal To Monteverde

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then check out and set off for Monteverde. This magical destination offers a harmonious mix of serenity, adventure, and authentic cultural encounters. Adrenaline lovers can glide high above the forest on thrilling zip lines, while nature enthusiasts will delight in strolling across hanging bridges that reveal sweeping views of the emerald canopy. For those seeking a taste of tradition, immerse yourself in cultural and culinary activities that highlight Costa Rica’s rich heritage. As evening descends, join a guided night walk through the forest to discover the fascinating nocturnal life that stirs once the sun sets. Monteverde is a place that awakens the senses, nourishes curiosity, and promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Day 8: Monteverde: A Perfect Balance Of Nature, Adventure, And Culture

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then spend the day at leisure exploring the natural wonders of Monteverde at your own pace. This enchanting destination offers a unique mix of unspoiled beauty, peaceful ambiance, and thrilling adventures. Glide through the treetops on exhilarating zip lines, stroll across spectacular hanging bridges with panoramic canopy views, or immerse yourself in cultural experiences that highlight Costa Rica’s rich heritage. As evening descends, join a guided night walk to discover the hidden world of the cloud forest after dark, where nocturnal creatures bring the forest to life. Whether your day is filled with relaxation or adventure, Monteverde promises unforgettable moments of discovery and wonder.

Day 9: From Monteverde To Manuel Antonio

Journey from the cloudy forest to the coast as you arrive at the charming seaside village of Manuel Antonio. This destination is nestled on the central Pacific coast and offers a stunning mix of lush tropical landscapes plus pristine beaches. Although the area is small it provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure along with unforgettable encounters with nature. The crown jewel of the region is Manuel Antonio National Park which stands as one of the most biodiverse protected areas in the entire world. You may spot playful monkeys and sleepy sloths or colorful toucans as the rainforest merges seamlessly with the sparkling coastline.

Day 10: Discover The Wonders Of Manuel Antonio

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio at your own pace. Venture into Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated protected areas, and immerse yourself in its extraordinary biodiversity. As you follow scenic trails, watch for playful monkeys, leisurely sloths, vibrant toucans, and colorful butterflies. After your hike, unwind on the park’s pristine beaches, where white sands meet the turquoise waters of the Pacific. For those craving more adventure, Manuel Antonio offers a variety of exciting activities, from kayaking and snorkeling to surfing or embarking on a catamaran cruise along the stunning coastline.

Day 11: Discover The Wonders Of Manuel Antonio

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio at your own pace. Venture into Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated protected areas, and immerse yourself in its extraordinary biodiversity. As you follow scenic trails, watch for playful monkeys, leisurely sloths, vibrant toucans, and colorful butterflies. After your hike, unwind on the park’s pristine beaches, where white sands meet the turquoise waters of the Pacific. For those craving more adventure, Manuel Antonio offers a variety of exciting activities, from kayaking and snorkeling to surfing or embarking on a catamaran cruise along the stunning coastline.

Day 12: From Manuel Antonio To Sjo Airport

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out and beginning your self-drive journey back to the car rental office near Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Rental Car Return Instructions On your last day, drive your rental vehicle to the car rental office in Belén, conveniently located near SJO Airport. Upon arrival, return the car and complete the required paperwork. After returning your vehicle, a shared shuttle will take you from the rental office to the airport, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transfer for your departure flight. End of Services!