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During a 17-day self-drive trip, you’ll discover just how diverse Costa Rica is. From the Caribbean coast and impressive volcanoes to cloud forests, tropical rainforest and the Pacific coast. Along the way, the landscapes change constantly and you’ll get to know the country’s rich flora and fauna.

During a visit to the Bribri reserve, you’ll be introduced to the culture of the indigenous Bribri community and learn more about the traditional production of cocoa, which has played an important role for generations. The excursion also takes you to a waterfall, tucked away in the tropical rainforest.

You will then drive further inland in your rental car. The route takes you through the lush countryside of Sarapiquí, where rainforests, rivers and national parks alternate. This region is renowned for its rich biodiversity. During walks and boat trips, wildlife can regularly be spotted here in its natural habitat.

You will then reach La Fortuna, situated at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica’s most famous volcano. This distinctive volcanic cone towers high above the landscape and is surrounded by forests, ancient lava fields and hot springs. The volcanic surroundings are ideal for active excursions, such as canyoning, abseiling and nature walks.

You will then travel on to Monteverde, where the landscape gives way to dense cloud forest. Due to the higher altitude, a light mist hangs almost constantly amongst the trees here, giving the area a character all of its own. During a walk with a local guide, you’ll discover this unique ecosystem and go in search of hummingbirds, toucans, monkeys and other animals that live here in their natural habitat. Those wishing to experience the cloud forest from a different perspective can also opt for a walk across suspension bridges or an impressive zipline ride through the treetops.

Via Manuel Antonio, you’ll eventually reach the Pacific coast, where tropical rainforest and beaches meet. The national park of the same name is one of Costa Rica’s best-known and is renowned for its combination of rainforest, beaches and the variety of wildlife that can be spotted relatively easily in their natural habitat. From here, you’ll travel on to the absolute highlight of the trip: Corcovado National Park. Situated on the Osa Peninsula, this national park is one of the most biodiverse natural areas in the world. Dense rainforests, deserted beaches, rivers and waterfalls form the habitat of countless animal and plant species. Access to the park is restricted, meaning that the natural environment has largely retained its original character. During various excursions with an experienced guide, you’ll explore this vast nature reserve and go in search of animals such as tapirs, toucans, hummingbirds, monkeys and coatis.

Thanks to your rental car, you’ll discover Costa Rica at your own pace and experience how each region has its own unique character. From tropical beaches and cloud forests to impressive nature reserves and a rich variety of flora and fauna, this trip offers a comprehensive introduction to Costa Rica. The accommodation also changes as the journey progresses. Along the way, you’ll stay in small-scale accommodation, often surrounded by nature or in unique locations, in keeping with the character of each region.

Highlights of the trip

• Immerse yourself in the Caribbean atmosphere in Puerto Viejo
• Discover the lush natural surroundings of Sarapiquí, by car, boat or on foot
• Walk across solidified lava fields near the Arenal Volcano
• Swim in the Pacific Ocean at Manuel Antonio National Park.
• Spot hummingbirds, toucans and proboscis monkeys in the beautiful rainforests of Corcovado N.P.

Travel price

The above trip can be booked from €7,900 per person.
Based on two people, including intercontinental flights (Amsterdam – San José – Amsterdam)*
* For the intercontinental flights, we assume a ticket price of €1,500 in economy class. Actual ticket prices depend entirely on the time of travel and the time of booking.

Good to know: Tailor the trip to suit your preferences!

Would you like to make any changes to this itinerary, or would you prefer to visit more places? As 100% Latin America experts, we specialise in bespoke, tailor-made holidays and can help you plan your own bespoke trip, using this unique itinerary as a guide.

For over 20 years, we have specialised exclusively in bespoke individual tours and exclusive self-drive holidays to Latin America. With our specialist knowledge and a professional network on the ground, we strive to create unforgettable travel experiences for true travel enthusiasts. By combining the main highlights with high-quality off-the-beaten-track experiences, we want you to enjoy Latin America just as much as we do, but of course tailored to your preferences. It is therefore possible to further customise the above-mentioned trip to suit your requirements. Please feel free to contact one of our travel specialists for personalised travel advice or to discuss your requirements, with no obligation.