{"id":115469,"date":"2024-08-01T13:00:58","date_gmt":"2024-08-01T13:00:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/01\/my-1-week-costa-rica-road-trip-itinerary-for-2024\/"},"modified":"2024-08-01T13:00:58","modified_gmt":"2024-08-01T13:00:58","slug":"my-1-week-costa-rica-road-trip-itinerary-for-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/01\/my-1-week-costa-rica-road-trip-itinerary-for-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"My 1 Week Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary for 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<p><\/p>\n<p>As the country that sparked my wanderlust, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Costa Rica<\/a> will always have a special place in my heart. The lush jungles, the stunning waterfalls, the incredible wildlife, and the super friendly locals who have a love for love \u2013 it\u2019s all just great. Costa Rica a beautiful, beautiful country.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/renting-a-car-costa-rica-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">It\u2019s also a perfect destination to road trip.<\/a> Since distances aren\u2019t too long, you can easily get a good feel for some of the main areas in the country in one week. (If you\u2019ve got more time, great! You can extend your stays in places or even add on more destinations. I\u2019ll share a few recommendations at the end). <\/p>\n<p>But, even with just seven days, you can cover a lot of ground. The freedom of having your own wheels means that you won\u2019t be beholden to bus schedules or end up forking out a lot of money for expensive tourist shuttles. That means you\u2019ll save both time and money.<\/p>\n<p>To help you plan your trip, here\u2019s my ideal one-week Costa Rica road trip itinerary:<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"where-to-rent-a-car-in-costa-rica\">Where to Rent a Car in Costa Rica<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>My go-to rental car company in Costa Rica is Vamos. They allow additional drivers for no extra fee, have great customer services, and their prices are reasonable.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/?p=M00009\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">You can click here to get a quote.<\/a> (You\u2019ll get 5% off by using that link too!).<\/p>\n<p>If Vamos doesn\u2019t have what you\u2019re looking for, try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/?a_aid=nomadicmatt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Discover Cars<\/a>. They compare prices from thousands of companies to help you find the best deal. You can use the widget below to find a deal:<\/p>\n<p>Once you get a car, take photos and video of any scratches or dents. That way you have evidence proving you didn\u2019t cause them should the car rental company ask (they usually won\u2019t but it\u2019s always better to be prepared).<br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"days-12-san-jose\">Days 1\u20132: San Jose<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"Historic rotunda in San Jose, Costa Rica\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip1.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip1.jpg\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"Historic rotunda in San Jose, Costa Rica\"\/><\/noscript><br \/>You\u2019ll likely be flying in and out of the capital, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/san-jose\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">San Jose<\/a>. That means you can return your rental car to the same location when you fly home (which is cheaper than dropping it off somewhere else). Many people skip right over the capital, opting to just stay overnight and head out the next morning to greener pastures but I think it\u2019s worth two nights. All the country\u2019s best museums are here, so you can learn the history of the country before embarking onwards. That said, depending on when your flight arrives, you could just do one night here and add more time somewhere else.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Things to do in San Jos\u00e9: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Visit the Costa Rican National Museum<\/strong> \u2013 If you only visit one museum in the city, make it this one. Housed in the fortress that was home to the (now defunct) Costa Rican military, the permanent exhibition traces Costa Rican history from Pre-Columbian times to the present day. It\u2019s in-depth and extremely well done, with bilingual explanations. <\/li>\n<li><strong>Admire Costa Rica\u2019s art<\/strong> \u2013 The Museum of Costa Rican Art is a small museum that offers a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions of national and international artists. If you\u2019re into contemporary art, don\u2019t miss the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MADC), where you can see the work of cutting-edge Costa Rican and Central American artists.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Visit the markets<\/strong> \u2013 The Central Market and The Municipal Crafts Market are good places to buy souvenirs and browse colorful market stalls. Plus, you can check out the local food scene at the Central Market (or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/san-jose-costa-rica-l379\/san-jose-guided-walking-tour-and-cooking-class-t410208\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">take a guided tour<\/a> for a more in-depth experience). <\/li>\n<li><strong>Take a free walking tour<\/strong> \u2013 If you want to learn more about the history of San Jose while taking in the sights, take a free walking tour. You\u2019ll hear all about \u201cticos\u201d culture (a term used to describe native Costa Ricans), visit some secret spots where the locals hang out, and see some street art along the way. <a href=\"https:\/\/sanjosewalking.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">San Jos\u00e9 Free Walking Tour<\/a> is the main operator \u2014 just don\u2019t forget to tip your guide at the end!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>For more things to see and do, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/san-jose\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here\u2019s my free travel guide to San Jose<\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>WHERE TO STAY:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/hostelworld.prf.hn\/click\/camref:1101lHtj\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fst%2Fhostels%2Fp%2F273268%2Fselina-san-jose%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Selina San Jose<\/a>:<\/strong> This upscale hostel is in a great location between key neighborhoods. It hosts a lot of cool events, there are dorms and private rooms, and there\u2019s a restaurant on-site too. <\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/cr\/autentico.en.html?aid=1383362&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Aut\u00e9ntico Hotel<\/a>:<\/strong> This laidback hotel has a beautiful pool, bright rooms, and helpful staff. I used to stay here with our groups when I ran tours in Costa Rica. Everyone loved it! <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>For more accommodation suggestions, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/best-hostels-san-jose-costa-rica\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here are my favorite hostels in San Jose<\/a>! <\/em><br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"days-3-la-fortuna-arenal\">Days 3: La Fortuna \/ Arenal <\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"Arenal volcano as seen through the trees in La Fortuna, Costa Rica\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip2.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip2.jpg\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"Arenal volcano as seen through the trees in La Fortuna, Costa Rica\"\/><\/noscript><br \/>After you\u2019ve explored the capital, it\u2019s time to drive three hours to the town of La Fortuna (make sure to stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens on the way). The town sits in the shadow of Arenal, Costa Rica\u2019s most iconic volcano. The area has tons of activities, and at the end of an active day, there\u2019s nothing better than enjoying the sunset views over the lake. <\/p>\n<p>La Fortuna is one of the country\u2019s most popular destinations (with higher prices that match its popularity). Despite that, it\u2019s still one of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/my-favorite-destinations-in-costa-rica\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">my favorite places in the country<\/a>. Just don\u2019t <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/getting-lost-in-costa-rica\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">get lost in the jungle like me<\/a>! <\/p>\n<p><strong>Things to do in La Fortuna:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hike in Arenal Volcano National Park<\/strong> \u2013 This vast national park spans 121 square kilometers (46 square miles) and is home to both Arenal Volcano as well as the inactive Chato Volcano that last erupted thousands of years ago. The national park has endless hiking trails, including the aptly named Lava Flow Trail, where you can hike the lava flows from the devastating 1968 eruption of Arenal. <\/li>\n<li><strong>Swim at the base of La Fortuna waterfall<\/strong> \u2013 This stunning waterfall is huge, dropping almost 75 meters (250 feet) into a big pool of water at its base. Swimming in the cold water is super refreshing after spending some time hiking in the hot sun. Make sure you have sturdy footwear as the walk down the steep, long staircase can get slippery.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Relax in the famous hot springs<\/strong> \u2013 Thanks to all the geothermal activity in the area, there are a lot of hot springs here. They range in price and quality, from free all the way up to $89 USD at Tabac\u00f3n Resort. You can also take a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/la-fortuna-l1904\/arenal-volcano-la-fortuna-waterfall-and-hot-springs-tour-t192264\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;deeplink_id=ad47973b-1359-52ec-b881-706d979ff712&amp;page_id=b6d43408-1f9b-53d5-a02a-4c5526ddb02d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">packed day tour<\/a> that includes hot springs, hiking around Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna waterfall, and enjoying a traditional lunch at the Maleku indigenous reserve.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Take a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/playa-blanca-costa-rica-l1547\/birdwatching-tours-with-naturalist-guide-t25578\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;deeplink_id=8b0b09a1-3ba5-5610-8ba9-1635868a292a&amp;page_id=b6d43408-1f9b-53d5-a02a-4c5526ddb02d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">bird-watching tour<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 This area is one of the best in the country for bird watching, with almost all of Costa Rica\u2019s 900 species of birds represented here. It\u2019s always best to go with an experienced local guide as you\u2019ll see many more birds that way (they know where specific species of birds like to hang out and can point out camouflaged birds).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Do some adventure activities<\/strong> \u2013 This area is one of the country\u2019s hot spots for adrenaline activities. Some examples of things you can do include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/la-fortuna-l1904\/lost-canyon-adventures-canyoneering-t11547\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;deeplink_id=00294c0d-09ee-5ee8-be2e-58f7e71bc67f&amp;page_id=b6d43408-1f9b-53d5-a02a-4c5526ddb02d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">canyoning<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/la-fortuna-l1904\/la-fortuna-balsa-river-class-2-3-whitewater-rafting-t217170\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">white-water rafting<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/la-fortuna-l1904\/la-fortuna-zip-line-experience-t411056\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">zip-lining<\/a>, or if you have the time (and money, as these activities are pricey) do them all! <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>WHERE TO STAY: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/hostelworld.prf.hn\/click\/camref:1101lHtj\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fst%2Fhostels%2Fp%2F279773%2Fselina-la-fortuna%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Selina La Fortuna<\/a>:<\/strong> Selina\u2019s La Fortuna location is an entire complex featuring an outdoor pool, stylish private rooms, a poolside restaurant, and lots of organized activities (including fitness and yoga classes). It\u2019s walking distance from everything too. <\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/cr\/arenal-rabfer.en.html?aid=1383362&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Hotel Arenal Rabfer<\/a>:<\/strong> This hotel offers a nice pool, clean rooms with little balconies, and a great complimentary breakfast at the caf\u00e9 next door.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>For more things to see and do, check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/arenal\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">my free travel guide to Arenal here<\/a>. <\/em><br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"days-4-monteverde\">Days 4: Monteverde <\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"Looking up a lush tree in the cloud forest of Monteverde, Costa Rica\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip3.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip3.jpg\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"Looking up a lush tree in the cloud forest of Monteverde, Costa Rica\"\/><\/noscript><br \/>Roughly a 3.5-hour drive away, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/monteverde\/&quot;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Monteverde<\/a> is one of my favorite places in Costa Rica. The entire area is covered in a lush cloud forest that just feels magical. The tropical forest is shrouded in mist \u2014 quite literally, as they\u2019re in the clouds. Because it\u2019s constantly so wet, Monteverde is incredibly biodiverse. Naturally, it\u2019s one of the largest eco-tourism hubs in the country, with birders flocking here to spot the elusive quetzal bird with its stunning emerald and ruby red plumage. There are a lot of adventure activities here too. (Some of the best coffee I ever had in my life was from here.)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Things to do in Monteverde: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hike in the cloud forest<\/strong> \u2013 There are several sections of the cloud forest that are open to visitors: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, and the Children\u2019s Eternal Rainforest. All are great, with trails that are pretty easy, well-marked, and well-maintained. If you really want to see wildlife, it\u2019s best to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/monteverde-l2135\/tour-in-monteverde-cloud-forest-t472334\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">go with a guide<\/a> who can show you animals and birds hidden in the dense canopy.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/santa-elena-costa-rica-l180411\/kinkajou-night-walk-in-monteverde-t473315\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Take a night tour of the forest<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 This is a cool way to see a different side of the jungle. Your guide will point out all the nocturnal animals (including tarantulas and armadillos), insects, and plants that you would never be able to find on your own in the dark!<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/monteverde-l2135\/montevede-jungle-zipline-rappel-experience-with-transfer-t425815\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;deeplink_id=fb8d5589-4a7a-57f2-85f7-82517df3253b&amp;page_id=b6d43408-1f9b-53d5-a02a-4c5526ddb02d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Go zip lining<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 The longest zip line in the country can be found here (it\u2019s an entire mile long)! Gliding through the canopy is a unique way to see the jungle from a different perspective. If you\u2019re an adrenaline junkie, don\u2019t miss this! <\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/monteverde-l2135\/from-monteverde-monteverde-guided-suspension-bridge-hike-t431972\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Walk the hanging bridges<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 If zip lining isn\u2019t exactly your speed, you can safely stroll hanging suspension bridges that are built through the upper layer of the canopy. It\u2019ll give you a view off the forest floor without having to swing through it. <\/li>\n<li><strong>Take a coffee tour<\/strong> \u2013 Monteverde is famous for its production of artisanal, organic, and sustainable coffee. Take a tour to learn about every stage of the process, from seed germination to roasting. There are a few different tours here, but the only one dedicated entirely to coffee is the Caf\u00e9 Monteverde Farm &amp; Roastery Tour. It\u2019s really interesting and educational, even if (like me) you\u2019re not a coffee drinker. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>WHERE TO STAY: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/hostelworld.prf.hn\/click\/camref:1101lHtj\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fst%2Fhostels%2Fp%2F293583%2Fselina-monteverde%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Selina Monteverde<\/a>:<\/strong> This Selina location is literally next to the cloud forest. It\u2019s a beautiful and tranquil location set in the trees with relaxing activities, a lush inner courtyard with hot tubs, and a separate co-working area. <\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/cr\/monteverde-villa-lodge.en.html?aid=1383362&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Monteverde Villa Lodge<\/a>:<\/strong> This quiet hotel is within walking distance to the town, offering complimentary breakfast and cozy rooms that have their own outdoor seating area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>For more things to see and do, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/monteverde\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">check out my travel guide to Monteverde here<\/a>.<\/em><br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"days-56-manuel-antonio\">Days 5\u20136: Manuel Antonio <\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"A monkey in the trees in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip4.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip4.jpg\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"A monkey in the trees in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica\"\/><\/noscript><br \/>Drive about 3.5-4 hours to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/manuel-antonio\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Manuel Antonio<\/a>, stopping on the way at the Tarcoles River Bridge to see crocodiles (just don\u2019t feed them). Manuel Antonio is a popular beach destination on the Pacific coast, known for its white-sand beaches, warm blue waters, and wildlife (especially sloths and monkeys). While tourism has picked up here in recent years, it\u2019s still largely a lazy town where the main activities are lounging in the sand by day and enjoying a beachside cocktail by evening (you get epic sunsets here). <\/p>\n<p><strong>Things to Do in Manuel Antonio: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Visit Manuel Antonio National Park<\/strong> \u2013 Spanning 1,980 hectares (4,900 acres), this park combines rich rainforest and picturesque beaches. Walk the trails and boardwalks to see plenty of capuchins, sloths, basilisk lizards, iguanas, and squirrel monkeys. The best beaches are in the park so don\u2019t miss a visit here. There\u2019s a cap on how many people can visit, so be sure to get your tickets online in advance or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/quepos-l32284\/manuel-antonio-national-park-3-hour-guided-tour-t298100\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;deeplink_id=2130b1a5-4cc6-54ba-a75c-1e2c774cb835&amp;page_id=edc45a7d-2ac6-502a-95b2-0099f5a8cfa5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">go with a guided tour<\/a>. <\/li>\n<li><strong>Lounge on the beach<\/strong> \u2013 Besides the beaches in the park, there\u2019s also Playa Espadilla, a long stretch of beach that abuts the small town. It\u2019s the perfect place to relax with a book, and it\u2019s just steps away from all the town\u2019s main eateries.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Learn to surf<\/strong> \u2013 There are tons of surf schools that set up shop right along Playa Espadilla. You can pay for a one-off lesson or board rental right on the beach or enroll in a surf school if you\u2019re looking for something more comprehensive. <\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/manuel-antonio-l142888\/from-manuel-antonio-4-hour-mangrove-boat-tour-t332896\/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Take a mangrove tour<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 Hop on a boat to explore the protected mangrove channels around Damas Island, home to white-faced monkeys, crocodiles, spectacled caimans, boa constrictors, crab-eating raccoons, and pygmy anteaters. You can also take a kayak tour to get even closer to this unique environment. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>WHERE TO STAY: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/cr\/hostel-vista-serena.en.html?aid=1383362&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio<\/a>:<\/strong> This chill nature lodge offers simple but clean dorms, private rooms, and full apartments within walking distance of the small town, the beach, and the national park. <\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/hostelworld.prf.hn\/click\/camref:1101lHtj\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fhosteldetails.php%2FTeva-Eco-Retreat%2FManuel-Antonio%2F292473\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Teva Jungle Hotel and Hostel<\/a>:<\/strong> An eco hotel set right next to the forest, they offer private hiking trails, a pool with poolside bar, permaculture gardens, a shared kitchen, and an excellent restaurant. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>For more things to see and do, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/manuel-antonio\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">check out my travel guide to Manuel Antonio here<\/a>.<\/em><br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"day-7-head-back-to-san-jose\">Day 7: Head back to San Jose <\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Leave Manuel Antonio in the early morning to drive back to San Jos\u00e9. It\u2019s about a 4.5-hour drive, but plan for more depending on traffic. If you are caught in traffic or are delayed for any reason, contact your rental car company to avoid a penalty. <\/p>\n<p>Before you return the car, make sure that your fuel gauge is at the right level, or else head to a gas station before you drop it off. The company\u2019s representative will inspect your vehicle with you and then process the deposit reimbursement.<br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"8-costa-rica-road-trip-tips\">8 Costa Rica Road Trip Tips<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"A\" beach=\"\" in=\"\" cost=\"\" rica=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip5.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip5.jpg\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"A\" beach=\"\" in=\"\" cost=\"\" rica=\"\"\/><\/noscript><br \/><strong>1. Understand car rental insurance <\/strong><br \/>Costa Rica has mandatory third-party insurance for car rentals, so check that this cost is included in your rental quote. It\u2019s often left out, meaning you could be surprised by the bill at the end. <\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also legally required to have a collision damage waiver (CDW) that covers losses from damage to your rental car. Most companies offer different tiers of insurance, with various deductibles. Many renters select full coverage for peace of mind, so any damage is covered. Some companies offer additional coverage for tires and the windshield, as they are not always covered by the CDW.<\/p>\n<p>If your credit card or travel insurance (which I always recommend getting) has a CDW as a perk, you can waive the in-house CDW. You\u2019ll need to bring a letter that explicitly states the amount of coverage, that Costa Rica is included in the areas covered, and the last four digits of the driver\u2019s credit card. A copy of the credit card company\u2019s terms and conditions is not usually sufficient.<\/p>\n<p>Either way, make sure you have sufficient coverage!<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Choose the right vehicle <\/strong><br \/>If you\u2019re road tripping Costa Rica, consider getting a 4\u00d74 for easier navigation on unpaved roads. You won\u2019t need it for all roads, but if you want to make sure you can go anywhere, go for a 4\u00d74. You can search by vehicle type at my go-to rental car company in Costa Rica, Vamos. <a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/?p=M00009\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">You can click here to get a quote.<\/a> (You\u2019ll get 5% off just by using that link).<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Use Waze for navigation<\/strong><br \/>Use the Waze app rather than Google Maps, which isn\u2019t always accurate and underestimates journey times. Waze is updated in real time by an enthusiastic group of volunteers, so you\u2019re aware of accidents or other situations that may affect your travel time. <\/p>\n<p>Plus, be aware that when asking for directions, almost all locals give directions using landmarks rather than road numbers. <\/p>\n<p><strong>4. Bring a paper map<\/strong><br \/>It\u2019s a good idea to have an offline map downloaded to your phone, or a physical map as a backup. Cell service can be spotty in remote areas, so it\u2019s best to be prepared. <\/p>\n<p><strong>5. Keep an eye on weather conditions<\/strong><br \/>Weather in Costa Rica can change rapidly, especially during the rainy season and in the mountains. Some roads may become challenging to navigate, with limited visibility. Do your best to avoid driving in poor weather, but if you do end up in a storm, pull over in a safe area (a roadside soda or local restaurant is always a good bet) and wait to see if conditions improve. <\/p>\n<p><strong>6. Add in time for scenic stops<\/strong><br \/>I know a lot of travelers like to really plan out their routes and itineraries. When you have limited time, it can be tempting to plan everything to a T (I get it, I used to do this a lot). However, there are lots of diversions to explore in Costa Rica, whether it be a cool hidden hiking spot or a scenic vista, complete with volcanoes. Plus, you don\u2019t want to rush driving on the windy roads here. Don\u2019t rush, and be open to changes. You won\u2019t regret it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>7. Be mindful where you park <\/strong><br \/>Wherever possible, park in secure parking lots, and don\u2019t leave valuables in an unattended vehicle as break-ins can occur. On a similar note, it is illegal to park on the beach. This is to protect wildlife, such as turtles. Even if locals are doing it, don\u2019t do it! Find a secure parking lot instead.<\/p>\n<p><strong>8. Be a responsible tourist <\/strong><br \/>Costa Rica has been at the forefront of sustainable tourism for decades. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/sustainable-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">As a traveler, be sure to respect the country\u2019s rich biodiversity and commitment to sustainability<\/a>. Always maintain a safe distance from animals and refrain from disturbing their environment. Never feed the wildlife and choose ethical wildlife tours that do not exploit animals either. <\/p>\n<p>When selecting tours and activities, participate in community-based initiatives to engage with and benefit local communities. Supporting local businesses not only boosts the local economy but also fosters responsible tourism. Opt for eco-friendly accommodations, such as eco-lodges and sustainable hotels, which prioritize environmental conservation.<br \/>\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"costa-rica-road-trip-faq\">Costa Rica Road Trip FAQ<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"A red frog on someone's hands in the rainforest of Costa Rica\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip6.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.nomadicmatt.com\/2024\/costaricaroadtrip6.jpg\" width=\"675\" height=\"395\" alt=\"A red frog on someone's hands in the rainforest of Costa Rica\"\/><\/noscript><br \/><strong>Is it safe to drive in Costa Rica? <\/strong><br \/>Costa Rica has lots of narrow, rugged, and windy roads that can be tricky to navigate. Road conditions vary widely. Major highways are generally in good condition, but rural and mountain roads can be rough, with potholes and unpaved sections. It\u2019s recommended to rent a 4\u00d74 vehicle if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path areas. <\/p>\n<p>That being said, it\u2019s perfectly safe to drive in Costa Rica, providing you exercise caution and stay alert behind the wheel. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Must know driving rules in Costa Rica!<\/strong><br \/>It\u2019s important to be aware of a few rules here, as fines for infractions can be high. Here are some key rules for driving in Costa Rica:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Traffic flows on the right side of the road here. <\/li>\n<li>Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (for example, it\u2019s 90 km\/h (55 mph) limit on major highways). <\/li>\n<li>Wearing seat belts is mandatory, and there are specific seating laws for children based either on age or weight\/height. <\/li>\n<li>Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal. <\/li>\n<li>0.05% is the legal limit for blood alcohol content when breathalyzed (so never drink and drive).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Does a US driver\u2019s license work in Costa Rica? <\/strong><br \/>Yes. You can use your local driver\u2019s license as long as it is printed in the Latin alphabet (so US licenses will work). Your driver\u2019s license must be valid for the entirety of your stay.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is the best time of year to road trip in Costa Rica?<\/strong><br \/>The dry season (December to April) is the best time for a road trip, as the roads are in better condition, with less of a risk of heavy rains. Although it\u2019s peak season and tourism is at its highest, there\u2019s almost non-stop sunshine, ideal for enjoying the country\u2019s beaches and rainforests. If visiting during this time, make all your reservations in advance since things fill up fast.<\/p>\n<p>Alternatively, the green\/rainy season (May to November) can offer lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Just be especially mindful about road tripping during this time, as there\u2019s more risk of weather disrupting your plans. <\/p>\n<p><strong>What should I do in case of an accident or emergency?<\/strong><br \/>If you are involved in a traffic accident, check that no one is hurt then move to safety off the road. Do not move the vehicle. Call the transit police and 911 for emergency services. You should also call your car rental provider to assess if the car can be driven, if a mechanic is required onsite or if the car needs to be exchanged and towed. The vehicle can be moved once the transit police give permission.<\/p>\n<p><center>***<\/center><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Costa Rica<\/a> is a great place to road trip. Although it\u2019s important to be cautious while driving on the winding roads, you\u2019ll have the most freedom to explore with a set of your own wheels. No matter what you\u2019re interested in \u2014 hiking, adventure activities, wildlife, beaches \u2014 by following this Costa Rica road trip itinerary, you\u2019ll get a taste of it all. <\/p>\n<p>Be sure to use my go-to rental car company, Vamos, to get the best price when you rent. <a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/?p=M00009\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">You can click here to get a quote.<\/a> <\/p>\n<div class=\"single-booking\">\n<h4>Book Your Trip to Costa Rica: Logistical Tips and Tricks<\/h4>\n<p><strong>Book Your Flight<\/strong><br \/>Use <a href=\"https:\/\/skyscanner.pxf.io\/c\/214481\/1027991\/13416?subId1=%26currency%3DUSD&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skyscanner.com%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Skyscanner<\/a> to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Book Your Accommodation<\/strong><br \/>You can book your hostel with <a href=\"https:\/\/hostelworld.prf.hn\/click\/camref:1101lHtj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Hostelworld<\/a> as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/index.html?aid=362916\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Booking.com<\/a> as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Don\u2019t Forget Travel Insurance<\/strong><br \/>Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It\u2019s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I\u2019ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?<\/strong><br \/>Check out my <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-resources\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">resource page<\/a> for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I\u2019m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Want More Information on Costa Rica?<\/strong><br \/>Be sure to visit our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-guides\/costa-rica-travel-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">robust destination guide on Costa Rica<\/a> for even more planning tips!\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><script type=\"rocketlazyloadscript\">\n!function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)\n{if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod?\nn.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)};\nif(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';\nn.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0;\nt.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];\ns.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)}(window, document,'script',\n'https:\/\/connect.facebook.net\/en_US\/fbevents.js');\nfbq('init', '1182678876447017');\nfbq('track', 'PageView');\n<\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/costa-rica-road-trip\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As the country that sparked my wanderlust, Costa Rica will always have a special place in my heart. The lush jungles, the stunning waterfalls, the incredible wildlife, and the super friendly locals who have a love for love \u2013 it\u2019s all just great. Costa Rica a beautiful, beautiful country. It\u2019s also a perfect destination to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":115470,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-115469","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-travel"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/115469","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=115469"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/115469\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/115470"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=115469"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=115469"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/entertainment.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=115469"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}