- Do I need a 4WD vehicle? The short answer: yes. If you're visiting Monteverde or the South Pacific region, 4WD is needed—the roads aren't always paved, and 4WD is especially essential in the wet months.
- What about GPS? Using GPS is essential. Costa Rica has no formal addresses, so having the exact coordinates is vital.
Want to explore the best that Costa Rica has to offer? Get started by describing your ideal trip and we'll connect you with a local specialist to plan out the details.
Costa Rica Travel Insights
Driving in Costa Rica: Road Trip FAQ
Costa Rica has a way of igniting the adventurous spirit within. This is, after all, one of the world's most biodiverse countries loaded with rainforests, wildlife species, beaches, outdoor activities, and 28 national parks—3 of which are UNESCO-listed. If you're planning on exploring some (or all) of what Costa Rica has to offer, you'll likely want to consider renting a car. Read this driving guide for the inside scoop.
Costa Rica Self-Drive Adventure - 14 Days
This road trip itinerary is a truly off-the-beaten-path nature excursion. Head to the remote beaches and rainforest of the Osa Peninsula before a scenic drive up the Pacific coast. You'll experience white-sand beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park, along with the cloud forest ecosystem of Monteverde where you'll hike over the jungle canopy via suspension bridges. Finally, you'll pay a visit to Arenal, an active volcano and one of Costa Rica's most famous landmarks.
Classic Costa Rica: 7-Day Self-Drive Tour
Taking a road trip through Costa Rica gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore where you want. You'll pass through stunning natural scenery — from lush cloud forests to picturesque beaches — in seven days of scenic driving. This tour can be extended or shortened depending on how much time you have.
The Ultimate Costa Rican Birding Roadtrip - 11 Days
Costa Rica is a Mecca for bird lovers. Here there are around 850 species of not only endemic birds but also migratory birds that arrive from throughout the hemisphere. Over 11 days you'll view many of these exotic species as you travel to remote rainforests, national parks, biological research centers, and even birding hotspots on Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coast.
Road Trip to Arenal & the Nicoya Peninsula - 16 Days
Experience the best of Costa Rica's rainforest, volcanoes, and Pacific beaches during this 16-day self-drive adventure. You'll explore the jungle via suspension bridges and ziplines and even have a free day to go whitewater rafting or relax in the charming town of La Fortuna. Then, it's time to head westward to the Nicoya Peninsula, where you'll adjust to the laid-back vibes of three quintessential surf towns: Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa.
Costa Rica Wildlife Road Trip - 8 Days
This self-drive tour is ideal for families who love animals and exploring the outdoors. You'll spot plenty of the country's adorable mammals like sloths and monkeys, as well as rare species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and tropical fish. Along the way, stay at unique eco-lodges
How it works
Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Step 3
Securely book your trip
Meet our Local Travel Specialists
Olman Romero
I was born in Turrialba, a region rich in history and natural beauty, home to the Guayabo National Monument, the most important pre-Hispanic archaeological site in the country, as well as the...
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Elena Mora
"I was born in Costa Rica and grew up on my family's sugar and coffee plantation farm in the mountains of Turrialba. From an early age, I learned from my family to deeply cherish and respect our...
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Bryan Leon
Growing up in a coffee plantation area near San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me a deep love and appreciation for nature. As a certified...
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Yuliana Valverde
For over a decade, my passion for creating unforgettable trips in Costa Rica shines a deep understanding of the country's diverse attractions and activities, as well as a genuine commitment to...
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Trip Reviews for Costa Rica
Our First Visit to Costa Rica is Nothing but PURA VIDA
Costa Rica
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Apr 21 - Apr 30, 2026
Family getaway to beautiful Cost Rica
Costa Rica
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Apr 4 - Apr 12, 2026
Our family had an awesome time in Costa Rica. The Kim Kim Team and Serendipity Team made this a trip that we will never forget. We are looking forward to doing this trip all over again next year
Much Thanks To Elena from Serendipity Adventures
Costa Rica
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Apr 15 - Apr 25, 2026
