Self-drive through the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica
Our Self-Drive Costa Rica holiday invites you to discover the country’s extraordinary diversity at your own pace. Over 15 days, travel from towering volcanoes to misty cloud forests and tranquil coastal hideaways, uncovering the wild beauty and warm spirit that make Costa Rica so unique. With the freedom of your own car, every journey becomes part of the adventure - from scenic mountain roads to rainforest trails alive with birdsong.
Begin in the lively capital of San José, before heading north to Arenal, home to one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes. Explore the region’s lush surroundings with walks through rainforest trails, relaxing dips in natural hot springs, or a visit to the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, where sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds thrive. Continue to Rincón de la Vieja, where volcanic landscapes set the stage for outdoor adventures - from hiking and horse riding to discovering hidden waterfalls and thermal pools.
Journey onwards to the cool, mist-shrouded Monteverde Cloud Forest, a sanctuary of incredible biodiversity and pioneering conservation. Walk the hanging bridges and visit butterfly gardens before ending your adventure in the Gulf of Nicoya at Isla Jesuita. Here, eco-friendly glamping brings you closer to nature - spend your days kayaking, paddle boarding, or spotting dolphins offshore, and your evenings marvelling at the magical glow of bioluminescent waters. This is Costa Rica at its most authentic, inspiring, and free-spirited.
Self-drive journey through Costa Rica
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
13 breakfasts, 3 lunch, 3 dinners
Car hire (unlimited mileage)
What you'll experience
- Travel through scenic Costa Rica at your own pace: Set out on a self-drive journey that gives you the freedom to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, from misty highlands to golden coasts. With your own rental car, each day unfolds naturally, bringing you closer to the sights, sounds, and spirit of this extraordinary destination.
- Choose from an array of cultural and adventurous experiences: Wander through vibrant towns, visit local markets, and explore some of Costa Rica’s most impressive national parks. Hike jungle trails, watch exotic wildlife in its natural habitat, and feel the power of nature in every waterfall, forest, and hidden valley.
- Discover Costa Rica’s natural wonders and coastal beauty: Marvel at the volcanic peaks of Arenal and Rincón de la Vieja, where geothermal springs bubble beneath the earth. Then, unwind on a tranquil island, staying in unique eco-friendly glamping accommodation where you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake to the call of tropical birds.
What's Included
- International flights
- 13 nights’ accommodation as detailed
- 19 meals; 13 breakfasts, 3 lunch, 3 dinners
- 8 days of car hire with unlimited mileage (4WD)
- Full cover insurance & 1 additional driver
- Transfers & domestic flights as per itinerary
Prices from £4,599 pp*
Excludes:
- Meals not indicated in your itinerary
- Local departure taxes payable locally
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc
- Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary)
- Camera or video fees at any sites
- Fuel
Quick Itinerary
Sef-Drive In Costa Rica 15-Day Itinerary
Day 1 UK - San José
On arrival, you will be transferred to your centrally located hotel.
Days 2 - 4 Arenal
Your rental car will be delivered to your hotel. Drive to the exceptional region of Arenal, renowned for its natural beauty and the only conical-shaped volcano in Costa Rica.
Spend the next three nights exploring the area at your own pace. A wide variety of activities can be arranged whether you want to appreciate the fauna and flora, or prefer to go hiking or white-water rafting. After a long day take the chance to relax in one of the natural hot springs.
We also recommend visiting the picturesque Arenal Lake, as well as the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, an ideal spot for bird-watching.
Days 5 - 6 Rincon de la Vieja
Drive to Rincon de la Vieja in the province of Guanacaste, part of the dry forests of Costa Rica and an important protected national park. It is also home to one of the most active and interesting volcanoes in the country and an impressive array of beautiful waterfalls.
There is a plethora of activities on offer at Rincon de la Vieja including horse riding, cycling, zip-lining or simply hiking in the surrounding verdant landscape.
Days 7 - 9 Monteverde
Drive to the mountainous region of Monteverde, part of the Costa Rican cloud forest known for its abundance of natural resources and its extraordinary array of plants and animal species that inhabit its incredible landscapes.
Due to the immense conservation efforts of the region, Monteverde is considered a natural laboratory where constant studies and research takes place to preserve the natural environment.
Monteverde offers several activities which can be educational, cultural or adventurous.
Days 10 - 13 Isla Jesusita, Gulf of Nicoya
After dropping off the car in Puntarenas, travel by boat to the beautiful Isla Jesusita, to stay in eco-friendly glamping accommodation surrounded by nature. Spend the days paddle-boarding or kayaking at leisure or perhaps join a whale watching tour (in season) or experience the magical bio-luminescence tour.
Days 14 - 15 San Jose - UK
Take the ferry back to Puntarenas for a transfer to San Jose for your onward flight. On day 15 you will land back in the UK from Costa Rica.
Speak to a Costa Rica Holiday Specialist
All our Costa Rica itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Self-Drive In Costa Rica options and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
Every journey we plan is truly individual – created just for you, by our expert team. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife, culture, food or landscapes, 5* luxury or off-grid adventure, we’ll design a Latin American holiday that’s truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.
We’re recognised by both the industry and our clients for our outstanding personalised service.
We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.
Every recommendation is shaped by real experience, true passion and specialist care.
Consistently rated ‘Excellent’ by our clients for our expert planning and personalised attention.
