Days
20
Destinations
10
Type of journey
Private
Activities
2
Overview from the travel specialist
Hi, I'm Björn: Costa Rica Pura Vida is our invitation to experience the full diversity of this unique country in an authentic and personalised way. Tropical rainforests, active volcanoes and two fantastic coasts make this trip an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
of your Costa Rica round trip
✓ Hike at the Arenal volcano
✓ Wildlife spotting in Tortuguero
✓ Suspension bridges in the Monteverde cloud forest
✓ Caribbean flair in Cahuita
✓ San Gerardo de Dota & quetzal watching
A round trip through Costa Rica with nature, diversity and a Caribbean lifestyle
Experience Costa Rica individually in 20 days in a hire car: from the lively capital San José, the route takes you to the Pacific coast to Manuel Antonio, the green highlands of San Gerardo de Dota and on to the relaxed Caribbean coast near Cahuita. Discover tropical rainforests, observe wild animals in Tortuguero and enjoy hot springs and volcanic scenery in La Fortuna. Suspension bridges in the cloud forest of Monteverde and sunny beach days in Sámara make this round trip the perfect combination of nature, adventure and relaxation.
Day 1: San José
After your arrival in San José, you will be warmly welcomed and taken to your centrally located hotel. Use the rest of the day for your first impressions or to explore the surrounding area.
Services: Hotel in San José (breakfast)
Day 2: Free day in San José
Today you have time to explore Costa Rica's capital individually. Visit the traditional central market, the elegant National Theatre or one of the exciting museums. In the evening, a stroll along the Paseo Colón is well worthwhile.
Services: Hotel in San José (breakfast)
Day 3: Quepos
You drive towards the Pacific coast to Quepos, the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park. The journey takes you through fertile landscapes and charming villages. Once there, you can discover the national park with its white sandy beaches, rainforests and wild inhabitants.
Service: Hotel in Quepos (breakfast)
Optional: Visit to Manuel Antonio National Park
Day 4: Free day in Quepos
Today is at your leisure. Enjoy the tropical surroundings, stroll through Quepos or relax on one of the nearby beaches. This break offers space for relaxation and individual experiences.
Services: Hotel in Quepos (breakfast)
Day 5: San Gerardo de Dota
Today we head to the green highlands of San Gerardo de Dota, a hidden gem in the middle of the cloud forest. The journey takes you through impressive landscapes with rivers, mountains and lush vegetation. A peaceful place full of nature and birdsong awaits you in the fresh mountain air.
Services: Hotel in San Gerardo de Dota (breakfast)
Day 6: San Gerardo de Dota
Use the early morning for a hike through the cloud forest. With a bit of luck, you may encounter the rare and colourful quetzal. The day invites you to slow down.
Services: Hotel in San Gerardo de Dota (breakfast)
Optional: Guided bird watching and quetzal watching
Day 7: Turrialba
You leave the highlands and drive through green valleys to Turrialba. The region is known for its agriculture, volcanic landscapes and tropical vegetation. The afternoon is free to explore nature on walks or to swim in the river.
Services: Hotel in Turrialba (breakfast)
Day 8: Cahuita
Today you reach the Caribbean side of the country. In Cahuita, a relaxed zest for life, reggae music and a dreamy coastline await you.
Service: Hotel in Cahuita (breakfast)
Day 9: Cahuita
Enjoy today as you wish. Whether you relax on the sandy beach, stroll through the town or soak up the Caribbean atmosphere with a cool drink - Cahuita invites you to take a break.
Service: Hotel in Cahuita (breakfast)
Day 10: Tortuguero
Today you travel north to the Caribbean coast and change boats at the jetty in La Pavona. The subsequent boat transfer through the tropical water channels to Tortuguero is an experience in itself: with a bit of luck, you may spot birds, monkeys or caimans on the shore along the way. After arriving at your lodge, which is close to nature, there is time to settle in.
Services: Lodge in Tortuguero (breakfast)
Activity: Boat transfer through the Tortuguero Canal with wildlife observation
Day 11: Tortuguero
Experience another day in the middle of the rainforest. Listen to the sounds of the jungle or relax in the grounds of your lodge. Optionally, you can also go on a boat tour to observe turtles (seasonal) and other wild animals.
Services: Lodge in Tortuguero (breakfast)
Optional: Turtle watching and wildlife observation
Day 12: Sarapiquí
After the return journey by boat and bus, we continue to the fertile Sarapiquí region. This region is known for its dense forests and tropical plantations. If you like, you can visit a cocoa or pineapple plantation in the afternoon and learn more about cultivation and processing.
Services: Hotel in Sarapiquí (breakfast)
Optional: Visit to a plantation
Day 13: La Fortuna
Today you will travel to La Fortuna, at the foot of the imposing Arenal volcano. The town is one of the most popular places in the country - and rightly so, as thermal springs, rainforest and adventure come together here. Use the afternoon to relax in one of these hot springs.
Services: Hotel in La Fortuna (breakfast)
Optional: Visit to a hot spring
Day 14: Arenal Volcano
Use the day for a hike up the volcano or actively explore the region. The area offers numerous nature trails, suspension bridges and waterfalls. Alternatively, you can simply spend the day relaxing at the hotel.
Services: Hotel in La Fortuna (breakfast)
Optional: Volcano hike
Day 15: Monteverde
The journey takes you through hilly landscapes to the cloud forest region of Monteverde. A mystical atmosphere, fresh mountain air and a completely different climate await you here.
Services: Hotel in Monteverde(breakfast)
Day 16: Monteverde
Today you embark on a guided hike across Monteverde's famous suspension bridges. Discover the cloud forest from a completely new perspective from lofty heights.
Services: Hotel in Monteverde (breakfast), guided suspension bridge hike
Day 17: Sámara
You reach the beautiful Pacific coast and the quiet seaside resort of Sámara. Enjoy the sunset on the beach or a cool drink under the palm trees.
Services: Hotel in Sámara (breakfast)
Day 18: Sámara
Today is at your leisure. Relax on the beach, swim in the warm Pacific Ocean or take advantage of optional excursions in the surrounding area.
Services: Hotel in Sámara (breakfast)
Day 19: Return journey to San José
You say goodbye to the coast and drive back to San José. On arrival, enjoy your last evening in the capital.
Services: Hotel in San José (breakfast)
Day 20: Journey home
Today you will be transferred to the airport. With many unforgettable impressions in your luggage, you will start your journey home.
Services: Breakfast, airport transfer
What is included?
Transfer in air-conditioned vehicles
On Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches
We are available around the clock if you have any questions!
Daily breakfast.
All activities described in the itinerary, except those described as optional.
In selected, comfortable hotels
Plan your dream holiday
Don't miss the chance to make your dream trip a reality! Contact our experienced travel consultants now and let them inspire and advise you for your trip.
Optional services
- International flights
- Gratuities
- Optional excursions and services
- Travel insurance
- Return transfer
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