Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a Costa Rica Road Trip and explore the stunning landscapes, pristine beaches and lush nature this country has to offer. This 14-day road trip is suitable for every driver and takes you on an adventure of 1872km (1162 mi) from San José to San José. Start your journey in the capital city of San José and make your way to San Isidro de El General, a small town surrounded by coffee plantations. From here, you can explore the Carate area and its impressive wildlife. Then, take a drive to Quepos, a small fishing village with a stunning beach. Continue to Tárcoles, a small town famous for its crocodile bridge, and then to Montezuma, a picturesque beach town with a laid-back atmosphere. Next, you’ll visit Playa Grande and Playa Hermosa, two beautiful beaches with white sand and clear waters. Then, make your way to Guayabo, a small town known for its natural beauty and breathtaking views. Finally, you’ll reach Puerto Viejo and Limón, two of the most beautiful towns in Costa Rica.
The best time of the year to drive this road trip is during the dry season, from December to April. The roads are generally in good condition, although some parts can be curvy and narrow. This road trip provides a very high level of experience and memories, and can be managed with a moderate budget. So, grab your car keys and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
14
number of days
1,915 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
San José
Distance 1,915 km
Driving time 51.6 h
Pace: slow
440.3 kWh
Airports
SJO
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San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is the perfect starting point for the Costa Rica Road Trip. Located in the Central Valley, it is a bustling city filled with culture, history and modern amenities. From San José, visitors can explore the rest of the country with ease, as it is conveniently located close to some of Costa Rica's most popular destinations.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Juan Santamaria International Airport (IATA: SJO). Once at the airport, visitors can also easily rent a car and hit the open roads.
The city of San José is worth exploring in its own right. Here, travelers can visit the National Theater of Costa Rica, home to the Costa Rican Symphony Orchestra, or the Gold Museum, which showcases Costa Rica's rich pre-Columbian history. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife and sample the delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
San José is one of the most beautiful cities in Costa Rica and is a great starting point for the Costa Rica Road Trip. With its easy access to airport and car rentals, as well as its vibrant culture and history, San José is the perfect place to begin exploring the country.
1
San José
- San Isidro de El General
Distance 157 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: slow
36.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Start your journey in San José, Costa Rica and make your way to San Isidro de El General, a small but lively town. This stage is 152 km (less than 4 hours) long and you will be delighted to discover the beautiful landscapes along the way. In some sections, the road is quite winding, so be prepared for some curves! On your way, make sure to visit the Poás Volcano National Park, a stunning natural reserve with a large crater lake and a variety of fauna and flora. Another must-see is the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where you can admire the magnificent La Paz and Magia waterfalls. Finally, don't miss the chance to explore the charming town of San Isidro de El General, where you can find many interesting attractions and activities. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
San Isidro de El General - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
San Isidro de El General - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
San Isidro de El General
- Piedras Blancas
Distance 163 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: modest
42.3 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip from San Isidro de El General to Piedras Blancas? This scenic journey is only 161 km long and can be completed in less than 4 hours. Along the way, you will be able to admire the lush green hills and valleys of Costa Rica. The road is winding in some sections, so be careful.
Start your journey in San Isidro de El General and make sure to visit the beautiful La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a paradise of lush tropical rainforest. Then, head to the charming town of San Gerardo de Dota, where you can explore the trails of Los Quetzales National Park.
Continue your journey to the small village of San Vito, where you can visit the Wilson Botanical Garden and the San Vito Biological Station. From there, drive to Piedras Blancas, where you can experience the amazing beauty of the Talamanca Mountains.
This is just one of the stages of your Costa Rican tour, and you can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip from San Isidro de El General to Piedras Blancas!
Piedras Blancas - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Piedras Blancas
- Carate
Distance 128 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: slow
29.4 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable 134 km long road trip from Piedras Blancas to Carate in Costa Rica! Along the way, you will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads, and you will be able to reach your destination in less than 7 hours. The road is very winding in some sections and narrow in others, so pay close attention to the road signs. Don't forget to take the time to admire the beauty of the Costa Rican nature! During your journey, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most interesting places in the area, including the Valle del Silencio, the small town of Ojochal and the Corcovado National Park. Make sure to check out the beautiful beaches of Bahia Drake and the stunning views of the Osa Peninsula. Don't forget to take plenty of pictures! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Carate - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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4
Carate
- Quepos
Distance 260 km
Driving time 5.6 h
Pace: modest
67.6 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Carate to Quepos! This scenic 263 km route takes about 8 hours to complete, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Costa Rican mountains and jungles. Be aware that some sections of the road are very winding and narrow, so drive with caution. During your journey, you can make a stop at Carara National Park, an excellent spot for birdwatching, as well as at the beautiful Manuel Antonio Beach. Don't forget to also visit the Damas Island Estuary, where you can observe a variety of wildlife. For a unique experience, make sure to stop at the mangrove forest of the Tárcoles River, where you can see crocodiles in their natural habitat. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Quepos - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Quepos
- Tárcoles
Distance 88 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
26.4 kWh
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Embark on a road trip adventure through the picturesque landscape of Costa Rica, starting in Quepos and ending in Tárcoles. The journey is only 89 km and will take less than 2 hours to complete, so you can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The road is a scenic one, with plenty of opportunities to admire the lush vegetation and rich wildlife.
As you drive, you will pass through Manuel Antonio National Park, a paradise for nature lovers. Here you can take a break and explore the park's beaches, trails, and wildlife. After that, you can continue your journey to Tárcoles, where you can take a boat tour of the Tárcoles River and observe the crocodiles that inhabit it.
In Quepos, be sure to visit the iconic Marina Pez Vela, where you can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, kayaking, and sailing. Meanwhile, in Tárcoles, you can visit the Tárcoles Bridge, a popular spot for bird watching.
This is just one stage of your road trip adventure, so keep your eyes open for other attractions along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Tárcoles - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - Flickr
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6
Tárcoles
- Montezuma
Distance 147 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: slow
33.8 kWh
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Are you ready for a memorable road trip? Starting in Tárcoles, Costa Rica, you will embark on a 118km journey that will take you less than 3 hours to Montezuma. Along the way, you will experience some of the most beautiful and interesting sites Costa Rica has to offer.
In Tárcoles, you can take a boat tour of the Tarcoles River, where you can observe the stunning wildlife, including crocodiles. You can also visit the nearby Carara National Park, where you can explore the rainforest and its abundant wildlife.
As you drive towards Montezuma, you can stop at the beach towns of Jaco and Herradura, where you can observe the stunning Pacific coast. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can observe the diverse wildlife and explore the rainforest.
Finally, you will arrive in Montezuma, where you can explore the beaches, go snorkeling, and enjoy some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Montezuma - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - www.iha.co.nz
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7
Montezuma
- Nosara
Distance 131 km
Driving time 5.6 h
Pace: slow
30.1 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Montezuma to Nosara, Costa Rica! This 120 km journey will take you less than 4 hours and will offer you some of the most breathtaking views of the country. As you drive, you'll be surrounded by picturesque landscapes and scenic roads, so be sure to have your camera ready! In some sections, the road will be winding and narrow, so please drive carefully. Along the way, you'll be able to stop at interesting places such as the Montezuma Waterfall, the Curu National Wildlife Refuge, and the Nosara Biological Reserve. Don't forget to take a few moments to appreciate the beauty of the Pacific Ocean! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!
Nosara - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Nosara
- Playa Grande
Distance 77 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: slow
17.6 kWh
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Embark on a memorable road trip from Nosara to Playa Grande, Costa Rica! This 80 km journey takes about 3 hours, and it's full of fun and surprises. Along the way, you will pass through some winding roads, and narrow roads in certain sections. Make sure to take in all the beautiful sights, from the tropical rainforest to the stunning coastline.
In Nosara, be sure to visit the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, where you can observe nesting sea turtles. In Garza, you can explore the pristine beaches of Playa Pelada and Playa Guiones. And in Playa Grande, you can see the Las Baulas National Marine Park, the home of the giant leatherback turtle.
This is just the beginning of your adventure! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Playa Grande - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Playa Grande
- Playa Hermosa
Distance 51 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
11.8 kWh
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Look no further! Playa Grande to Playa Hermosa is a 56 km drive that takes less than 3 hours. You will be mesmerised by the stunning views along the way, with winding roads and narrow sections that will make your journey even more enjoyable. Make sure to keep your eyes open for any interesting sights, as you never know what you might find! There are plenty of places to stop and take in the beauty of the Costa Rican landscape. And don't forget to take lots of photos to remember your journey. Once you arrive in Playa Hermosa, you can explore the local attractions, find the best restaurants, and even camp out for the night. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Playa Hermosa - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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10
Playa Hermosa
- Guayabo
Distance 77 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: slow
17.6 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip adventure from Playa Hermosa to Guayabo! This 75-km drive will take you fewer than 3 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to take in the scenery. Along the way, you'll find winding roads and narrow sections, so be sure to drive carefully. You'll also find some of the most breathtaking views in Costa Rica, so be sure to take lots of photos!
One of the highlights of the drive is the breathtaking view of the majestic Arenal Volcano, located in the Arenal-Tempisque Conservation Area. You'll also find the fascinating Guayabo National Monument, where you can explore the ruins of an ancient pre-Columbian city.
These are just a few of the many attractions you'll find along the route. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!
Guayabo - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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11
Guayabo
- La Fortuna
Distance 157 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: slow
36.0 kWh
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Embark on a unique road trip from Guayabo to La Fortuna, Costa Rica! This 153 km journey will take you less than 6 hours to complete, and you will be surrounded by stunning views of the countryside. As you drive, keep an eye out for the steep ramps, winding roads, and scenic views. You will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in Costa Rica, such as the Guayabo National Monument, the Arenal Volcano National Park, and the La Fortuna Waterfall. Make sure to take plenty of photos and buy souvenirs along the way! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
La Fortuna - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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12
La Fortuna
- Puerto Viejo
Distance 91 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
23.6 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from La Fortuna to Puerto Viejo? This 80 km journey can be done in less than 2 hours and it will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of Costa Rica.
Start your journey in La Fortuna and visit the Arenal Volcano National Park, the Venado Caves, the La Fortuna Waterfall, and the Tabacon Hot Springs. In the Arenal Volcano National Park you can admire the stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and take a guided tour of the rainforest. The Venado Caves offer amazing stalactites and stalagmites formations and a unique experience of exploring the underground world. The La Fortuna Waterfall is a paradise of lush vegetation, cascades, and natural pools. Finally, the Tabacon Hot Springs offer a relaxing experience with thermal pools and a spa.
Continue your journey to Puerto Viejo and visit Cahuita National Park and Cahuita Beach. The Cahuita National Park is a paradise of Caribbean wildlife, with white sand beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. Here you can spot a variety of animals, including sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds. Cahuita Beach is a stunning white sand beach with crystal clear waters and a great spot for snorkeling.
This is just one of the stages of your road trip, but more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Puerto Viejo - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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13
Puerto Viejo
- Limón
Distance 198 km
Driving time 4.4 h
Pace: modest
51.4 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Puerto Viejo to Limón? This 198km journey takes less than 6 hours and promises to be an unforgettable experience. On your way, you will have the chance to admire the breathtaking scenery of the Caribbean coast. The road is winding in some sections, so drive carefully and enjoy the view! There are also some narrow sections, so be sure to pay attention to the road.
We suggest you to visit some of the most interesting places in Puerto Viejo and Limón. In Puerto Viejo, don't miss the opportunity to visit Cahuita National Park, the Chocolate Farm and the Jaguar Rescue Center. In Limón, don't forget to explore the Tortuguero National Park, the Puerto Limón and the Caribbean Coast. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and let's hit the road!
Limón - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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14
Limón
- San José
Distance 191 km
Driving time 5.8 h
Pace: slow
44.0 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Limón to San José to explore the wonders of Costa Rica! This 192 km route will take you less than 7 hours to complete, and you will be able to witness the incredible scenery along the way. Be aware that the road is quite winding in some sections, and narrow in others, so make sure to pay attention to the road and the scenic views. You can visit the beautiful Cahuita National Park, the Guayabo National Monument, and the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. There are also plenty of restaurants and campsites along the way, so you can take your time and enjoy the journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
San José - Costa Rica - Middle America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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San José
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San José is the most populous city in Costa Rica and the capital of the country. It is located in the Central Valley, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the great outdoors.
San José is a great destination to end the "Costa Rica Road Trip". Here, visitors can explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene and explore the surrounding countryside. The city has a great range of attractions, from museums and galleries to parks and gardens. Be sure to visit the National Museum to learn more about Costa Rica’s history, and the Teatro Nacional for an evening of art and culture.
Head to the Central Market to explore the local cuisine and soak up the atmosphere, or take a walk in the Parque Nacional where you can find lush vegetation, wild animals and stunning views. For a break from the city, take a drive to the nearby Poás Volcano National Park, where you can take in the spectacular views of the volcano, or explore the nearby La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). From here, you can continue your adventure to other parts of Costa Rica or even further afield.
San José is a great destination to end the "Costa Rica Road Trip", offering travelers the perfect mix of culture, nature and adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore the city or take in the stunning views of the nearby volcanoes, San José has something for everyone.
Costa Rica Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
San José
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End:
San José
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Distance:
1,915 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an epic 14-day Road Trip through Costa Rica, covering a total of 1872 kilometers (1162 miles), beginning and ending in the vibrant capital city of San José. This adventure is a dream come true for enthusiasts who wish to dive deep into Costa Rica's rich tapestry of ecosystems, which includes lush coffee plantations, unspoiled beaches, and an abundance of wildlife.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- San Isidro de El General: Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains, this town's nearby coffee plantations offer a glimpse into the heart of Costa Rica's coffee culture, renowned globally for its high-quality beans.
- Carate area: Bordering the remote Corcovado National Park, which is often described as one of the most biodiverse places on earth, the Carate area is a gateway to observing rare wildlife such as tapirs, jaguars, and scarlet macaws.
- Quepos: This charming fishing town serves as the entry point to the magnificent Manuel Antonio National Park, where forests meet the sea, providing a habitat for species like sloths and capuchin monkeys.
- Tárcoles: Famous for the Crocodile Bridge, visitors can safely observe large American crocodiles basking along the riverbanks below.
- Montezuma: A bohemian beach town with a free-spirited atmosphere, Montezuma is known for its waterfalls, natural swimming holes, and a vibrant nightlife.
- Playa Grande and Playa Hermosa: These beaches are not only known for their white sands and clear waters but also for their importance as nesting grounds for the leatherback turtles, part of Costa Rica's extensive conservation efforts.
- Guayabo National Monument: This archaeological site in the shadow of the Turrialba Volcano offers insight into the ancient civilizations that once thrived here, with structures and petroglyphs dating back over 3,000 years.
- Puerto Viejo and Limón: These Caribbean jewels exhibit a unique blend of Afro-Caribbean culture, known for their laid-back atmosphere, reggae music, and distinct culinary flavors alongside stunning coastal scenery.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for this Road Trip is during Costa Rica's dry season, from December to April, when you'll enjoy sunny skies, lower humidity, and better Road conditions for exploring the country's natural wonders.
Potential Risks:
- Drivers should be cautious on winding and narrow Roads, especially in mountainous regions.
- Watch out for wildlife crossings, as Costa Rica is home to an abundance of creatures that may venture onto the Roads.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- With a moderate budget, travelers can have a memorable experience that balances comfort with authentic encounters.
- Costa Rica is a leader in ecotourism and sustainable practices, making it an ideal destination for environmentally conscious travelers.
- The route is generally driver-friendly, yet it's wise to be prepared for varying Road conditions, as off-the-beaten-path adventures may lead to less maintained Roads.
A good choice for:
Start your engine for an extraordinary journey through the heart of Central America, where every turn offers a new discovery. This Costa Rican Road Trip combines the perfect blend of adventure and serenity, promising to leave you with a treasure trove of memories to last a lifetime.
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