Self Drive Costa Rica - 14 days Tour by On The Go Tours

14 daysDuration

Private TourPrivate experience, no group joining

2 peopleMinimum to book

18 - 80 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Starts

San Jose, Costa Rica

Ends

San Jose, Costa Rica

Highlights

San Jose – Wander through the capital’s vibrant centre, home to lively plazas, historic buildings, and bustling markets rich in local colour

Puerto Viejo – Relax on golden Caribbean beaches and soak up the town’s Afro‑Caribbean flair, with tropical wildlife and laid‑back coastal charm

Cahuita National Park – Walk rainforest trails where monkeys, sloths, and iguanas can often be spotted along a coastal path lined with white‑sand beaches

La Fortuna – Stroll scenic trails around town with views of Arenal Volcano and explore public paths through surrounding rainforest landscapes

Monteverde – Discover local wildlife and cloud forest flora on roadside trails and gardens near Santa Elena surrounded by misty highland scenery

Rincon de la Vieja – Walk forest trails around your lodge and watch for monkeys, toucans, and coatis in the trees of this rugged volcanic region

Tamarindo – Swim and sunbathe on Tamarindo Beach, where soft sands and warm Pacific waves offer the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the coast

Rincon de la Vieja – Walk forest trails around your lodge and watch for monkeys, toucans, and coatis in the trees of this rugged volcanic region

Tamarindo – Swim and sunbathe on Tamarindo Beach, where soft sands and warm Pacific waves offer the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the coast

Itinerary

PRIVATE SELF-DRIVE TOUR: Discover Costa Rica on this 14-day road trip that starts in lively San José and winds through the country’s most stunning regions. Journey to the Caribbean coast for sun-soaked beaches and wildlife in Puerto Viejo and Cahuita. Head inland to La Fortuna for rainforest adventures and views of Arenal Volcano, then explore the misty cloud forests of Monteverde. Continue to Rincon de la Vieja for volcanic hikes and hot springs before ending on Tamarindo’s laid-back Pacific shores. With scenic drives, exotic wildlife, and a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

day 1 - Arrival in San Jose

Once you have arrived at Juan Santamaría International Airport, a local representative will be waiting to greet you and hand over your travel documents. From there, your transfer will take you to your hotel in the heart of San José’s metropolitan area. If you’re arriving early, you might like to explore some of the capital’s cultural highlights – the representative will be able to give you a few suggestions to help you make the most of your time

OverNight:San Jose

day 2 - Drive to the Caribbean Coast & Explore Puerto Viejo

San Jose - Braulio Carrillo National Park - Puerto Viejo. This morning, you'll collect your rental car from the hotel and drive east from San Jose to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast. The route takes you through the rainforest-covered hills of Braulio Carrillo National Park, offering a scenic start to your journey.

Puerto Viejo is a relaxed seaside town known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, beautiful beaches, and rich biodiversity. Depending on your arrival time, you might choose to stretch out on the sand at Playa Cocles, Punta Uva, or Playa Chiquita, or visit the nearby Jaguar Rescue Center to learn about local wildlife conservation efforts.

The town offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional dishes to Caribbean-inspired flavours. Bread and Chocolate is a great spot for breakfast or lunch, while Chile Rojo serves Asian fusion and seafood in a beachfront setting, with vegan options also available. For a taste of Afro-Caribbean cooking, Restaurante Johanna is a popular local choice.

If you're in the mood for music or nightlife, head to Tasty Waves, Johnny’s Place, or The Lazy Mon – or simply relax with a cocktail and take in the ocean views.

Driving time: 4.5 to 5 hours

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Puerto Viejo

day 3 - Wildlife & Coastal Trails in Cahuita National Park

Puerto Viejo - Cahuita National Park - Puerto Viejo. After breakfast, make your way to Cahuita National Park, where you can walk through lush rainforest, relax on white-sand beaches, and take in views of vibrant coral reefs along the Caribbean coast.

It’s best to arrive in the morning when wildlife is at its most active. After paying the entrance fee, you’ll follow a coastal trail where you might spot howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, sloths, dart frogs, iguanas, and a variety of tropical birds – often without needing a guide.

The full trail runs just over eight kilometres one way, so if you’re planning to complete the entire route, you’ll need to return the same way to reach your car. If you’d prefer a shorter walk, the return route from Kelly Creek to Punta Cahuita covers around three and a half kilometres. Along the way, you’ll pass Playa Blanca and Puerto Vargas – both ideal for a swim or a relaxing break by the sea.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Puerto Viejo

day 4 - Travel to La Fortuna & Explore Arenal

Puerto Viejo - La Fortuna.Today, you’ll leave the Caribbean coast and drive west to La Fortuna, a journey of around four and a half hours. This small town sits at the base of Arenal Volcano – one of Costa Rica’s most iconic and still-active peaks, rising to 1,657 metres. It serves as the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park and is a hub for outdoor adventure.

After checking in at your hotel, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the surrounding area. La Fortuna is known for its rainforest trails and abundant wildlife, offering a great introduction to the region’s natural beauty. Just outside town, you’ll find the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall, plunging 75 metres into a jungle pool – a popular spot for hiking and swimming.

If you're looking for more activity, you might choose to join a zip-lining tour through the canopy or head to Lake Arenal for kayaking with views of the volcano.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:La Fortuna

day 5 - Day at Leisure in La Fortuna

This morning, you’ll have the day free to explore the Arenal region at your own pace. A popular option is a 25-kilometre mountain biking route that runs along a scenic old road linking the Lake Arenal dam to the entrance of Arenal Volcano National Park – a great way to take in the surrounding landscapes.

You could book one of many optional tours available in the area, including zip-lining, birdwatching, a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall, a chocolate or coffee tour, or a relaxing massage at your hotel. For a gentler pace, safari floats offer a quiet way to spot wildlife from the water. Hikes on the 1968 lava fields reveal the volcano’s dramatic history, while a guided night walk at Danaus Eco-Centre lets you discover the region’s nocturnal wildlife.

To end the day, don’t miss the chance to soak in one of the local hot springs. Set within lush rainforest, these naturally heated pools are fed by thermal waters and surrounded by cascading falls – the perfect way to relax and recharge.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:La Fortuna

day 6 - Scenic Drive from La Fortuna to Monteverde

La Fortuna - Monteverde. After breakfast, you’ll set off for Monteverde, a lush mountain region in Costa Rica’s northwest often called the “Green Lung” of the country. The drive takes around three and a half hours, following a scenic route around Lake Arenal – so it’s worth getting an early start to allow time for stops along the way.

There are plenty of opportunities to pull over and enjoy the views or take a break during the journey. One good place to pause is the hillside town of Tilarán, a relaxed mountain village where you might go for a short walk, try horseback riding in the hills, or simply enjoy the scenery. The area also offers good birdwatching and windsurfing around the lake.

If you get hungry en route, you can stop at a roadside soda – a small, family-run restaurant serving traditional and affordable Costa Rican meals. A typical dish to try is the casado, a hearty plate of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and your choice of meat or fish – a satisfying local favourite before continuing your journey into the cloud forest.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Monteverde

day 7 - Free Day to Explore Monteverde

This morning, you’re free to explore Monteverde however you choose. With no set schedule, it’s the perfect opportunity to follow your interests and make the most of what this cloud forest region has to offer.

Nature lovers can visit the Monteverde Orchid Garden in Santa Elena, home to a colourful collection of over 400 orchid species. If you’re curious about butterflies and insects, the nearby Butterfly Gardens also showcase a variety of native species, along with spiders and other fascinating creatures. For a quieter experience in nature, the Curi-Cancha Reserve offers peaceful trails through the forest and excellent birdwatching. Alternatively, you can head into the Monteverde or Santa Elena reserves to explore the area's unique biodiversity on foot.

If you're looking for more adventure, there are plenty of activities available locally. You could set out on a guided night walk, cross hanging bridges through the forest canopy, go zip-lining, ride through the countryside on horseback, or take in the views on the Treetopia Tram & Trek. Whether you’re here for the wildlife, the landscapes, or the adrenaline, Monteverde delivers.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Monteverde

day 8 - Journey to the Volcanic Wilds of Rincón de la Vieja

Monteverde - Rincon de la Vieja. Today, you'll travel north to Rincon de la Vieja, a region known for its rugged volcanic terrain and rich biodiversity. Located in the Guanacaste province, it’s home to the largest volcano in Costa Rica’s northwest, standing at 1,895 metres and surrounded by a cluster of smaller craters.

The national park offers a mix of tropical, cloud, and mountain forests, creating a refuge for a wide variety of plant and animal life. You might spot sloths, monkeys, tapirs, kinkajous, and even the occasional jaguar or puma. Birdlife is just as impressive, with colourful motmots and emerald toucanets often seen flitting through the canopy. Towering laurel and Guanacaste trees provide a natural shelter for many of these species.

Whether you spend the afternoon exploring forest trails, searching for wildlife, or simply soaking up the scenery, Rincon de la Vieja is an ideal place to enjoy Costa Rica’s wilder side.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Rincon de la Vieja

day 9 - Adventure & Exploration in Rincon de la Vieja

After breakfast, the day is yours to spend however you choose. Rincon de la Vieja offers a wide range of activities, whether you're looking for adventure, nature, or a bit of both.

You might decide to hike in Rincon de la Vieja National Park with an English-speaking guide. These trails take you through tropical forest landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, where you'll encounter bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and sulphur-rich thermal pools. Keep in mind that the park is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

For something more adrenaline-fuelled, you could go tubing along the river – a fun and refreshing way to experience the area’s natural beauty, suitable for both adults and children. If you're interested in history and culture, there’s the chance to join an archaeology tour based at Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín, which explores the lives of ancient peoples who once inhabited the region.

Those looking for a thrill might opt for the Canyon Canopy Tour, which combines zip-lining, rock climbing, and rappelling through a dramatic river gorge. Alternatively, you can hike to La Cangreja Waterfall within the national park – a rewarding trek that leads to a striking cascade hidden deep in the forest. Hikes in the park range from one to five hours, depending on the trails you choose, allowing you to tailor your day to your interests and energy levels.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Rincon de la Vieja

day 10 - From Volcanoes to the Coast

Rincon de la Vieja - Tamarindo. This morning, you'll set off on a scenic drive from Rincon de la Vieja to the Pacific coast, travelling through Guanacaste’s diverse landscapes. The journey takes just under two hours, passing volcanic ranges, rural villages, and farmland along the way. You might want to pause for a casual roadside meal—try a traditional dish with fresh local produce or cool down with a batido, a fruit smoothie made with milk, popular throughout the region.

Once you arrive at the coast, you can settle into your hotel or head straight out to explore. A sea kayaking and snorkelling tour from Tamarindo Beach is a great way to spend the afternoon. As you paddle toward the white sands of Capitán Island, take in the clear waters and vibrant reef life just below the surface, ideal for spotting colourful fish and coral.

If you're visiting between October and March, consider a visit to Las Baulas National Marine Park, where leatherback turtles come ashore at night to nest. It’s a rare and remarkable sight.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Tamarindo

days 11-12 - Beach Time & Optional Adventures in Tamarindo

For the next two days, you’ll have time to unwind and enjoy Tamarindo at your own pace. Spend the morning relaxing on the soft sands, listening to the waves and soaking up the coastal sunshine. Whether you stretch out with a good book or take a refreshing swim in the warm Pacific waters, it’s a perfect place to pause and recharge.

If you’re in the mood for more activity, there are plenty of tours available locally that you can book on-site. Options range from exploring nearby beaches by ATV or jet ski to joining a kayak or fishing tour out on the water. Scuba diving and extreme watersports are also available for those looking for a thrill, while surf lessons are a popular way to experience Tamarindo’s laid-back beach culture. For something different, you could even spend a full day at Hacienda Guachipelín for a mix of adventure and nature.

In the evening, make sure to take a moment to admire the sunset—ideally with your favourite drink in hand. The views here are spectacular, and there’s no better way to end the day than with the sky glowing above the ocean.

Meals:2 Breakfast

OverNight:Tamarindo

day 13 - Tamarindo to San Jose

Tamarindo - San Jose. Today, you’ll make your way back to San José, heading inland from the Pacific coast. As you drive through the changing landscapes, take time to enjoy the final views of Costa Rica’s coastline before the road climbs back into the central highlands.

Once you arrive at your hotel in the capital, you can settle in and relax. It’s the perfect chance to unwind and enjoy your last evening in Costa Rica before tomorrow’s departure.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:San Jose

day 14 - Departure from San Jose

After your final breakfast in Costa Rica, it’s time to begin your journey home. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll drive to Juan Santamaría International Airport.

Before heading to the terminal, you’ll stop at the car rental office to return your vehicle. From there, a representative will take you to the airport’s main terminal in time for your departure.

Meals:1 Breakfast

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

13 nights in 3-4 star hotels

Meals

13 breakfasts

Transport

Arrival airport transfer on day 1 & departure airport transfer on day 14

Others

1 rental car - a mid-size 4WD automatic car with basic CDW insurance included. A refundable credit card deposit is required on collectionRental car Pick-up: San Jose on Day 2 & Drop-off: San Jose (Day 14)

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

This tour has not received any customer reviews yet. However, you can expect a good tour as it is run by a trusted travel specialist who has received 26 reviews for other tours with an average 4.6rating.

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Other Practical Information

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 100+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 808 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Sistema di prenotazione semplice e intuibile. In caso di necessità le istruzioni presenti sul sito sono risultate utili e chiare. Nessun problema riscontrato

2 days ago

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights