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Highlights
Drive through Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes, beaches, and wildlife hotspots.
Drive along Costa Rica’s scenic Caribbean and Pacific coastlines.
Explore Corcovado National Park’s pristine rainforest and abundant wildlife.
Snorkel vibrant coral reefs and marine life around Caño Island.
Experience authentic culture and stunning nature in rural towns.
This 11-day tour offers an unforgettable self-drive adventure across Costa Rica, from the Caribbean coast to the Pacific. Travelers will experience diverse landscapes, including tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and mountainous regions. Highlights include exploring the wildlife-rich Corcovado National Park with guided hikes, snorkeling in the vibrant reefs of Caño Island, and cruising through mangrove-lined rivers. The flexibility of self-driving allows visitors to explore at their own pace while enjoying comfortable accommodations and seamless logistics.
In addition to nature and wildlife, the tour includes cultural experiences in authentic Costa Rican towns like Turrialba and the Los Santos coffee region, known for its rich birdlife and local traditions. Boat transfers and guided excursions complement the self-drive segments, providing a balance of independence and expert support. This combination makes the tour ideal for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with Costa Rica’s natural and cultural treasures.
This 11-day tour offers an unforgettable self-drive adventure across Costa Rica, from the Caribbean coast to the Pacific. Travelers will experience diverse landscapes, including tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and mountainous regions. Highlights include exploring the wildlife-rich Corcovado National Park with guided hikes, snorkeling in the vibrant reefs of Caño Island, and cruising through mangrove-lined rivers. The flexibility of self-driving allows visitors to explore at their own pace while enjoying comfortable accommodations and seamless logistics.
In addition to nature and wildlife, the tour includes cultural experiences in authentic Costa Rican towns like Turrialba and the Los Santos coffee region, known for its rich birdlife and local traditions. Boat transfers and guided excursions complement the self-drive segments, providing a balance of independence and expert support. This combination makes the tour ideal for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with Costa Rica’s natural and cultural treasures.
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Costa Rica Coast to Coast Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in San Jose
Upon arrival at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), a representative will greet you after customs and assist with your luggage before transferring you to your hotel near San Jose. Take the evening to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Overnight Location: KC Hotel San Jose
Meals: None
Day 2 Drive to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Pick up your rental car and begin your self-drive journey to the laid-back Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you travel through lush landscapes toward the coast.
Overnight Location: Cariblue Beach & Jungle Resort
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Free Day in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Spend the day at your own pace in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Relax on the beach, explore the town, or choose from a variety of optional activities such as visiting national parks, snorkeling, or cultural tours. The day is yours to enjoy however you like.
Overnight Location: Cariblue Beach & Jungle Resort
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Travel to Turrialba
Leave the Caribbean coast behind as you journey to Turrialba, a charming and authentic town nestled in the lush highlands of Cartago province. Enjoy the scenic change in landscape as you arrive in this peaceful rural region known for its natural beauty and agricultural traditions.
Overnight Location: Hotel Villa Florencia in Turrialba
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Discover the Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Head into the highlands of Los Santos, a region renowned for its rich coffee plantations and incredible birdlife. San Gerardo de Dota is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a chance to spot the magnificent Resplendent Quetzal among many other species in a tranquil, cloud forest setting.
Overnight Location: Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 South Pacific Beaches
Enjoy a day exploring the stunning beaches of Dominical, known for their natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Located on Costa Rica’s south Pacific coast, this area offers pristine shores perfect for unwinding, beach walks, and soaking up the tropical vibe.
Overnight Location: Villas Rio Mar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Transfer to Drake Bay
Travel by boat from Sierpe to your hotel in Drake Bay, enjoying a scenic journey that includes 20 minutes on the open sea followed by a 40-minute ride along the Sierpe River. Along the way, observe mangroves and wildlife such as crocodiles and various bird species. Prepare for a wet landing—wear easy-to-remove shoes like sandals or water shoes. You will be dropped off directly at your hotel.
Overnight Location: Pirate Cove Hotel in Drake Bay
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8 Jungle hike and waterfall visit in Drake Bay
Embark on a guided hike through the lush trails of Cocovado National Park’s San Pedrillo Station. After enjoying a picnic lunch at the station, visit a spectacular waterfall where a refreshing swim awaits. Experience the rich biodiversity of the primary forest, spotting various animals, birds, and insects along the way. The tour includes a bilingual guide, park entrance, lunch, and boat transportation.
Overnight Location: Pirate Cove Hotel in Drake Bay
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 9 Snorkeling at Cano Island
Explore the vibrant reefs and clear waters around Cano Island, renowned for some of the best snorkeling and diving in the region. Discover over 15 species of corals, colorful schools of fish, rays, sharks, moray eels, and turtles. Dolphins and whales are also commonly spotted in these waters. The tour includes a bilingual guide, snorkeling gear, park entrance, lunch, and boat transportation.
Overnight Location: Pirate Cove Hotel in Drake Bay
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 10 Return to San Jose
Travel by boat from your hotel in Drake Bay to Sierpe, enjoying a scenic 1-hour journey. The trip includes 20 minutes on the open sea followed by a 40-minute ride along the Sierpe River, where you can admire mangroves and spot wildlife such as crocodiles and birds. Prepare for a wet landing by wearing easy-to-remove shoes like sandals or water shoes. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in San Jose.
Overnight Location: KC Hotel San Jose
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 Departure from Costa Rica
Your unforgettable journey comes to an end today. Say farewell to beautiful Costa Rica and its warm people as you drive from your hotel to Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). Remember to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight departure.
Overnight Location: None
Meals: Breakfast
Costa Rica Coast to Coast Tour Price and Dates
The departure is available on any day of the week. Prices below are per person:Accommodation on Costa Rica Coast to Coast Tour
This tour is based in hotels. Each property offers comfortable lodging that allows you to connect with Costa Rica’s diverse natural beauty while enjoying a relaxing stay.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
What’s Included in the Costa Rica Coast to Coast Tour?
Meals
10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 10 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation during the tour includes self-driving in a Hyundai Tucson Superior 4WD AT (or similar) SUV for 9 days. Private transfers and boat rides are included for certain legs, ensuring smooth and scenic travel throughout the itinerary.
Also Included
- English-speaking guide
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fees where applicable
- Private airport transfers
- 24/7 emergency support
- Car rental for 9 days
- Boat transfer from Sierpe to Drake
- Boat transfer from Drake to Sierpe
- Walking tour to Cocovado National Park San Pedrillo Station
- Snorkeling at Cano Island in Corcovado National Park
- VAT
Not included
- Flights to and from Costa Rica
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Departure taxes
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- Fuel costs
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Optional activities or excursions
- How hard is the Costa Rica Coast to Coast Tour?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?
- Are meals included on the Costa Rica Coast to Coast Tour?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to San Jose to start this tour?
- Where does the Costa Rica Coast to Coast Tour end?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Costa Rica?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Costa Rica?
We rate this tour as a 2 / 5. This tour includes self-driving, light hikes, and snorkeling, with no intense physical effort required. While some logistical elements—like boat transfers and frequent accommodation changes—add mild complexity, the overall experience remains relaxed and accessible.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover all the activities listed on the tour. Get your travel insurance.
Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, where a private transfer will take you to your hotel to begin the tour.
The tour ends in San Jose.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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