Treasures of Costa Rica, Self-drive

Enjoy the highlights of Costa Rica on this eight-day itinerary, including wonderful rainforests, volcano, cloud forests, tropical beaches and wildlife. This is a country of great natural beauty and every destination has something unique to offer. Whether you are watching the Arenal volcano whilst bathing in hot springs, walking in the canopy of Monteverde’s cloud forest or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica really is a nature lover's paradise. 

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Arenal: prior to December 2010 the Arenal Volcano was one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world and it was a truly majestic sight. Today there are no lava eruptions, but you can still see smoke/ash spew out of the top of the volcano. Find the balance between mind, body and spirit surrounded by nature thanks to the lush jungle and the imposing Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna area is recognized worldwide for being one of the most prominent wellness tourism destinations in the world.

Monteverde: a nature lovers paradise with a marvellous diversity of wildlife and plant life. Monteverde Cloud Forest is unique from Costa Rica’s other forests, with a constant mist that looks like clouds and gives the forest its name. Monteverde is a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquillity combined with adventure and adrenaline activities, cultural and culinary experiences to discover the secrets of the forest! 

Manuel Antonio: a small Oceanside village with plenty of great places to stay tucked into nature. Famous for its national park, this tiny yet bustling town is located off Costa Rica's central Pacific coast. The region is a treasure for biodiversity, attracting nature-buffs, eco-travellers and adventure-seekers alike.

Day 1: ARRIVAL SAN JOSE (18km – 30min)

Welcome to Costa Rica. A local representative will greet you and assist you at the airport. Shared transfer from airport to the hotel in San Jose. Check-in at the hotel and then enjoy leisure time to refresh, relax and get comfortable at your hotel room. Explore by your own the city and its surroundings. 

Overnight at San Jose.

Day 2: SAN JOSE – ARENAL (160 km – 4hrs) / CAR HOTEL DELIVERY

Delight in a tasty breakfast at the hotel. At the agreed time this morning, a local car rental representative will meet you at the lobby of the hotel to deliver you the rented vehicle and all the information regarding the contract. Afterwards, self-drive to your next destination: La Fortuna de San Carlos, home of the wonderful Arenal Volcano. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel in Arenal and enjoy free time to relax or discover the surroundings on your own. 

Overnight in Arenal.

Day 3: ARENAL

Breakfast included at the hotel. Leisure day to relax and explore the natural wonders of Arenal on your own. 

Overnight in Arenal.

Day 4: ARENAL – MONTEVERDE (160 km – 3.5hrs)

Begin your day with a tasty breakfast at the hotel. At a convenient time, self-drive to your next destination: Monteverde Cloudforest Region. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel in Monteverde, enjoy free time to relax and discover the natural beauty of this destination on your own. 

Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 5: MONTEVERDE – MANUEL ANTONIO (180km – 4hrs)

Breakfast at your hotel & Check Out. At a convenient time, self-drive to your next destination: Manuel Antonio beach located in the Central Pacific Coast. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel in Manuel Antonio and enjoy leisure time to relax or discover the area on your own. 

Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 6: MANUEL ANTONIO

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy your day exploring the most beautiful and natural wonders of Manuel Antonio. 

Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 7: MANUEL ANTONIO – SAN JOSE (180km – 3.5hrs) / CAR HOTEL RETURN

Enjoy a rich breakfast at the hotel. At the convenient time self-drive to San Jose City. Upon arrival, check-In at the hotel in San Jose and at the agreed time, meet the local car rental representative at the hotel lobby to return the vehicle. Enjoy free time to relax or go to explore the capital city on your own. 

Overnight in San Jose.

Day 8: DEPARTURE SAN JOSE (18km – 30min)

Wake up to a one last breakfast at the hotel. At the agreed time, a local Representative will pick you up at the lobby and take you on a shared transportation to Juan Santamaria International Airport to take your flight back home. 

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Costa Rica. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.