Self drive to the Pacific

If you are up for an adventure, why not drive yourself? You will have more freedom to decide when you leave and where you stop on the way. This little road-trip will bring you to the most amazing places before you drive into astonishing sunsets at the Pacific Coast.

Duration: 
15 nights/16 days
Country: 
Activity: 
Type: 

Highlights

  • Caño Negro 
  • La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest
  • Rincón de la Vieja
  • Playa Grande or Playa Samara

We offer great itineraries and wonderful places. The activities you choose to undertake will define your adventure in these magical places and no matter what you choose,  you will be impressed by the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Discover the fauna and flora on a walk in one of the many Natural Parks and forests, or while zip-lining or tubing, or just relax in natural mud pools and enjoy the view. Read on and create your own adventure!

Itinerary

Fron Caño Negro near the Nicaraguan border to Arenal volcano and green Monteverde to the far west of Costa Rica in Rincón de la Vieja, our self-drive will not stop to amaze you. After all these new experiences, relax and have fun at gorgeous beaches!

DAY 1 - WELCOME TO COSTA RICA

San José

Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport to welcome you to Costa Rica and drive you to your hotel, located in the capital, very close to parks and museums.

PRIVATE TRANSFER AIRPORT - HOTEL
LODGING IN SAN JOSE, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Optional activities:

1/ San José city walking tour with a local: Local citizens of San José are called “Chepe”. They love their city and like to show you why they are proud to call it their home. They can tell you about buildings, hidden pieces of the Berlin Wall, corky parking lots, and take you to kitsch canteens nestled in the local markets. Our guides speak Spanish and English. Snack included.

2/ The local bar tour : Let our local guide take you to the cantina’s where the Chepe’s go themselves and enjoy some drinks with your new local friends. In every bar 1 drink or shot is included in the price. You can also enjoy a “Boca” or Gallo”, a typical tapa, at one of the bars.

Accommodation

Standard option: Hotel La Rosa del Paseo

Discover a true treasure, located in the heart of the Costa Rican capital, build in 1910. First, the home of the wealthy coffee farmers, now 80 years later, restored and remodeled, preserving its historical splendor, transformed into a modern-day family hotel.

Superior option: Hotel Presidente

Imagine experiencing San Jose like a local: strolling the downtown avenues, relaxing in the parks and feeling the vigorous energy and buzz provided by the edgy new boutiques, bars and restaurants opening just about every day. At Hotel Presidente, this becomes reality.

DAY 2 - TO CAÑO NEGRO

Caño Negro

A representative from the rental car company will meet you at the hotel to deliver you the car. Then, you will start your road trip along Costa Rica!

Just miles from the Nicaraguan border lays a phenomenal bird-watching and natural sightseeing heaven. Situated in the Northern Lowland plains 25,000 acres of wetlands, rainforest and swampland make up the Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge.

Caño Negro is a very special little town, its heritage came from the Maleku Indigenous people, the river is a sacred place for them.  One of the last  so called “living fossils” on earth lives here: the Gaspar fish!

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED
LODGING,  DINNER INCLUDED

Distance from San José: 117 km
Duration: 3 ½ hours approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: Hotel Campo Caño Negro, standard room

Hotel Campo is situated in a beautiful property completely dedicated to conservation with 80 species of tropical fruit trees, decorative plants, medical trees and plants, forest and trails, all surrounded by unique Costa Rican nature. The property is 300 meters of Caño Negro lagoon and refuge.

Superior option: Caño Negro Natural Lodge, deluxe room

The lodge is surrounded by tropical gardens. It features modern rooms with air conditioning. There is a recently renovated pool, pool bar and jacuzzi. The lodge's restaurant offers a buffet and à la carte menu. 

DAY 3 - CANO NEGRO - OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Caño Negro

Free day to explore the area.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED
LODGING, BREAKFAST & DINNER INCLUDED

Optional activities:

  1. Boat tour to Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve
    Visit the channels and lagoons that create this spectacular destination. You will be impressed by the stunning scenery and the variety of fauna and flora which you can observe within the incredible beauty of the wetlands. This refuge is home to more than 350 bird species, 310 plants and at least 160 species of mammals, such as: the howler monkey, the white faced monkey and the spider monkey. Also, there are many species of fish. (duration: 2 hours)
  2. Guided walk to Rio Celeste
    You will hike through the primary forest of the Tenorio Volcano NP. Alongside the forested trails, you will be able to spot a variety of plant and animal species. You will continue walking until you reach an impressive waterfall, near a place called El Teñidor. Here two rivers come together and the Rio Celeste suddenly turns from green into a remarkable bright blue. Distance is approx. 7 km (4 miles). This tour is recommended for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is not physically challenging but you should be in decent shape. Due to recent regulations it is no longer aloud to swim in the National Park.
  3. Birdwatching tour in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
    Discover the Secret Garden! Thanks to the vast amount of natural diversity in Caño Negro it is an important feeding ground for both resident and migratory birds which is why there is such a wide variety of birds that can be observed, 350 species in total. A local, experienced naturalist guide will help you to identify each bird and recognize their calls. Emerge yourself in the wonderful world of ornithology. (start at 08 AM, 2 hours)

DAY 4 - TO ARENAL

Arenal

Drive to La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano.

La Fortuna (which means The Great Fortune) is home not only to one of the most exciting volcanoes in Costa Rica (Arenal), but to some of the most beautiful waterfalls, hot springs and indigenous communities.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED
LODGING, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance Caño Negro - Arenal: 60 km
Duration: 1 ½ hour approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: Nepenthe B&B, standard room

A boutique hotel in the mountains of Northwestern Costa Rica. Situated a half-hour from the lively town of La Fortuna they offer a private and tranquil atmosphere with spectacular views of Arenal volcano and lake Arenal.

Superior option: Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge

Owned and managed by the Rojas Bonilla family, the old fashioned, rustic and charming Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge is an eco-friendly Lodge with friendly service and sustainable tourism. The lodge is predominantly an ecological farm that has been devoted and has adhered to strict practices in sustainable development along with conservation policies for many years.

DAY 5 - ARENAL - OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Arenal

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED
LODGING, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

We recommend you take advantage of this place as you can do many activities to explore the local flora and fauna, relax and get to know the local people.

Optional activities:

  1. EcoTermales Hot Springs
    Whatever you choose to do in Arenal, your visit will not be complete without spending a little time resting and relaxing in some of the best eco-thermal hot springs in the world.  Lunch or dinner included.
  2. La Fortuna Waterfall Hike
    Enjoy the magnificent nature an do not forget your swimming gear as you will be able to swim at the waterfall. The distance is only 3 kilometers but we do suggest that you wear comfortable shoes: the terrain is not completely flat and there are some stairs. Also, the high humidity and temperatures can make the walk harder than you would expect.
    What to bring?  sun tan lotion, mosquito spray, towel, flip flops, water.
    Please note that there are no dressing rooms or services in nature.
  3. Visit Maleku Indigenous Community
    Don Alfredo is a Maleku who loves to show you the regular life of this specific indigenous community.  A the beautiful Maleku Rancho he will share with you his stories and traditions. There will also be a small ceremony and the opportunity to enjoy a typical Maleku snack. It is important to understand that all places in the surroundings, like the volcano, the waterfall and the forest are sacred places to the Maleku and so they should be treated with respect.
  4. Guided walk to Arenal Volcano National Park
    There are different trails that you can take. You can choose to do them all or just a few. The total length is only 5 kilometers but should take into account the heat, humidity and the fact that some paths could be slippery. The trails are flat with moderate hills. (see picture)
  5. Kayak on Lake Arenal
    Admire the beautiful scenery and views of the Arenal Volcano while kayaking on the lake.
  6. Cook a typical Costa Rican dish
    Learn to cook a typical dish which you can eat yourself afterwards, so: pay attention! 

DAY 6 - TO MONTEVERDE

Monteverde

Welcome to the mysteriously hypnotizing cloud forest of Monteverde. This is the perfect setting for zip-lining and exploring the tree canopy via hanging bridges.

Monteverde is a breathtaking rainbow-covered valley in the clouds offering spectacular views of Arenal Volcano and even of the Pacific Ocean on clear days.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED
LODGING, *BREAKFAST INCLUDED*

Distance Arenal - Monteverde: 106 km
Duration: 3 ½ hours approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: Cabinas Los Pinos, standard cabina *breakfast included at Stella’s Restaurant*

Cabinas Los Pinos are spaced apart so each can boast a private, intimate setting. Each cabina can accommodate between 2 and 6 people. Landscaped gardens and natural forests surround them. After a day's adventure, relax in the beautiful gardens and enjoy a cup of coffee in your fully furnished cabin. Breakfast is not served at the cabin, but is included at Stella’s cafetaria, which is about 1 km walk and a place where also the locals come.

Superior option: Cloud Forest Lodge, standard room

Cloud Forest Lodge accommodations are designed to create a balance between nature and comfort. The spacious bungalow-style bedrooms are simple and basic to provide a real mountain lodge experience. They are however, very cozy, comfortable and warm to enhance the natural feel of home.
All rooms have a front porch for quiet relaxation, read your favorite book peacefully or take a quiet walk through the butterfly gardens. Outside the rooms they have carefully preserved gardens with local native plant life, animal life, birds and butterflies that interact directly with the guests.

DAY 7 & DAY 8 - MONTEVERDE - OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Monteverde

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED

LODGING, *BREAKFAST INCLUDED*

Optional activities

  1. Hanging bridges & Sloth habitat
    Take a calm walk through the canopy and soak up the beauty of this unique cloud forest. The challenge is to spot a sloth climbing by slowly! They hang out in the trees.
  2. ​Zipline, Superman & Tarzan Swing
    Yes, you will scream, and yes, you will think twice before doing it, but once it is over, you will all want to go again.  Monteverde is the absolute perfect spot to go ziplining. You will start off with about 10 smaller ziplines so you really get the hang of it before facing the Superman zipline. This is a zipline with a length of 1500 meters! You go in true Superman style, meaning: on your belly, head first. Once you have recovered from flying over the valley, you can swing through the forest in Tarzan style!
  3. Meet the Quakers of Monteverde
    In 1949, after serving time for refusing to fight in the Korean War, four pacifist Quakers from Alabama sought a country where they could embrace their peaceful beliefs and continue to cultivate their dairy farms. Costa Rica had abolished its army in 1948 and had underdeveloped mountainsides that were perfect for their trade. So, in 1950 several Quakers picked up their belongings and moved to Monteverde where they began to farm and live in peace.  These families, along with some of the area’s locals, have established the most eco-minded community in the country. On this exclusive tour, you will get to meet the families of the original Quakers and you will hear their story first hand.
  4. ​Monteverde Reserve Guided Walk
    Discover the tropical rainforest with our experienced guide. This will give you great opportunities to spot mammals, birds and plants, which you would probably not even notice without the presence of our guide. Easy walk of about 3 hours, moderate hills, entrance included.
  5. ​Doña Hermidia Farm
    Hermidia is a very friendly Costa Rican lady with a good sense of humor. She opens the doors of her property and shows how she lives of almost nothing else but what she grows herself. In her backyard you will find: plantains, yuca, papaya, pineapples,  heart of palm and others. At the end she cooks a Costa Rican dish with the things she has picked up in the garden during the tour. You can enjoy tasting the dish in her living room, a regular day at the farm!
  6. ​Finca Life, coffee tour
    Learn all about coffee harvesting and its history related to the development of Monteverde and Costa Rica. This is a sustainable farm which grows organic coffee. In order to do so, they need other trees, plants and animals. And of course you will also get to enjoy a coffee tasting. Entrance included.

DAY 9 - TO RINCON DE LA VIEJA

Rincón de la Vieja

In the midst of the Guanacaste volcanic mountain chain, Rincón de la Vieja is the heart of what many would call the real Guanacaste. The cattle-hacienda, horseback-riding, hardcore Guanacaste that gave birth to this area’s iconic culture and soul. It is a modern-day Wild West, where the locals have managed to turn haciendas into sustainable, farm-to-table accommodations surrounded by almost-sacred silent volcanic landscapes.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED
LODGING, DINNER INCLUDED

Distance Monteverde – Rincón de La Vieja: 135 km
Duration: 3 hours approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: Rinconcito Lodge, standard room

Rinconcito Lodge, a mountain lodge, with an enchanting rustic and family atmosphere. Conveniently located between "Rincón de la Vieja National Park" and Miravalles Volcano in Guanacaste. At 600 meters above sea level, it has the ideal starting point to visit the natural marvels that this world-renowned destination has to offer.

Superior option: Hacienda Guachipelín Lodge, superior room.

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin offers modern rooms with A/C and cable TV. The Hacienda is located close to the entrance of the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. You can enjoy the hacienda's mud pots down the road or learn more about the farm's cattle and horses. The adventure center is open daily and offers a range of options for active travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
 

DAY 10 & DAY 11 - RINCON DE LA VIEJA - OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Rincón de la Vieja

Trek your way up to a hidden cascade, get your cowboy hat on and ride your way to amazing hot springs or simply take in what true Costa Rican cattle-country is all about. This area is one of the most significant pillars of Costa Rican culture and a great contrast from the post-card tropical beach and monkey Costa Rica that we’ve all come to recognize and love.

Milk your own milk, pick your own salad and just marvel at the endless views while bathing in volcanic hot springs. Not bad for the middle of nowhere, huh?

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED

LODGING, BREAKFAST & DINNER INCLUDED

Optional activities

  1. Rio Negro tubbing adventure
    You will have the time of your life riding the watery rollercoaster of the Rio Negro in individual inner tube rafts on our Rio Negro Tubing Adventure. Enjoy non-stop fun and excitement bouncing and splashing down 5 km (3 miles) of class II and III rapids in this narrow, rushing river of crystal clear water.  There are plenty of quiet pools along the way to appreciate the beautiful tropical scenery.
    This special river tube rafts are designed with handles and protective bottoms. Guides go with you and look after your safety.
    Part of our river tubing adventure includes riding our trusty Costa Rican ranch horses  along scenic trails through the forest to get to the river. We recommend wearing a swimsuit, quick-dry shorts and shirt, and either river shoes, sneakers or strap sandals that are secure and you will not lose in the water when tubing. You will keep them on to protect your feet.
  2. Canyoning
    Get an incredible adrenaline rush on this exclusive Canyon Canopy Tour. You will fly through the trees on zip lines, rappel, rock climb, swing like a Tarzan, and cross hanging bridges over a narrow river canyon. Your playground is the spectacular White River Canyon, formed by water erosion over millions of years. You will have exhilarating fun on 7 zip lines, 1 hanging bridge, 2 Tarzan swings, a controlled 20 meter (65 foot) rappel, natural rock climbing, and via ferrata traverses and climbs. It generally takes 90 to 120 minutes to complete it all.
  3. Mud baths and hot springs
    On the banks of the Colorado River at the Hacienda Guachipelin Ranch, we offer a relaxing tour. For optimum natural spa experience, we recommend beginning with the sauna for 10-15 minutes to open up all of your skin pores. Then apply pure mineral clay mud all over from our volcanic mud pots. Let it dry and afterwards wash it off at the showers. Time to relax in your choice of three volcanic clay water hot springs pools. Finish off your treatment with a cold shower so the pores of your skin can close again and you will feel reborn!
  4. ​Oropendula Waterfall hike
    Combine the fun adventure of hiking Rincón de la Vieja NP and swimming at a beautiful rainforest waterfall.  We will walk 45 minutes on a scenic forest trail to the Las Pailas entrance of the Park. Las Pailas means “the cauldrons” in Spanish and this area spectacularly shows the awesome power of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, the largest most active volcano in Guanacaste. Steaming fumaroles, mini-geysers and bubbling volcanic mud pits give you an incredible experience.
    With our bilingual naturalist guide, you will hike the Las Pailas loop trail 3,5 km (2,5 miles) through dry tropical forest and you will get to enjoy the best views of the volcano, incredible nature and wildlife. Amongst the animals to be found here are: armadillos, iguanas, white-nosed coatis, white faced, howler and spider monkeys, snakes, collared peccaries and more than 300 species of bird.
    When you finish your hike you will be ready for a refreshing swim in the Oropendula Waterfall. It is a short walk from the entrance of the National Park to get down to the river bottom. The trail has a varied terrain and you will also need to take a short walk in the river to reach the falls. The Oropendula Waterfall spills an impressive 25 meters (82 feet) down to a bright turquoise pool in the picturesque lush canyon of the Rio Blanco.

DAY 12 - TO PLAYA GRANDE OR SAMARA BEACH

To Playa Grande or Playa Samara

OPTION 1 : PLAYA GRANDE:

Separated from Tamarindo by the Matapalo River is Grande Beach (Playa Grande) located within Marino Las Baulas National Park. Grande Beach is where the leatherback turtle arrives every year to lay her eggs.

This spot of the Pacific Coast most Costa Ricans visited when growing up: pristine beaches, small fishing towns taken over by surfers and just that incomparable great feeling of being at a perfect beach community where everyone is just chilling and enjoying the Pura Vida lifestyle.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED

LODGING AT PLAYA GRANDE, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance Rincon de La Vieja – Playa Grande: 98 km
Duration: 2 hours approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: RipJack Hotel, standard room

This family owned Playa Grande hotel is all about surfing, yoga, good food and good vibes! Its standard hotel rooms are perfect for the budget conscious surf trip with your buddies when you just need a place to sleep and shower between surfing sessions. When you’re ready to upgrade your hotel room with that special someone they have their deluxe hotel rooms with plenty of amenities and on-site yoga to keep everyone happy.

Superior option: RipJack Hotel, deluxe room

 

 

OPTION 2: SAMARA BEACH

The beautiful coastal hamlet of Samara is a paradise on the Nicoya Peninsula's western shore. Known as one of the prettiest and safest beaches in all of Costa Rica, Playa Samara radiates wonderful white sand in contrast to the aquamarine water.

Samara's laidback vibe allows for rest and relaxation, an almost universal characteristic of the Nicoya Peninsula. Its village offers a number of services: stores, restaurants, hotels, and a small selection of bars.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED

LODGING AT SAMARA BEACH, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance Rincón de La Vieja – Samara: 139 km
Duration: 2 ½ hours approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: Giada Hotel, standard room

Hotel Giada is conveniently located in the center of the village of Samara. Small shops and restaurants are within walking distance, as well as Samara beach. The rooms are clean and comfortable with private bathrooms. There are 2 pools, a jacuzzi and a restaurant & pizzeria on the premises.

Superior option: Leyenda Hotel, suite room

Hotel Leyenda is located just 2 km from Playa Carrillo and just 10 minutes away from Samara. Bordered by palm trees with a rocky hill to appreciate a beautiful panoramic view. It has rich flora and fauna, leatherback and olive ridley sea turtles nest on its coast and during the months of November to April is visited by humpback and gray whales looking to mate. Awarded the "Blue Flag" which certifies the high environmental and safety standards

DAY 13 – DAY 14 - RELAX AT THE BEACH

Relax at the beach

At the beach, you still have the car at your disposal so you can visit nearby villages, towns or other pristine beaches. Wheels do give you freedom.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED

LODGING AT PLAYA GRANDE OR SAMARA BEACH, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

DAY 15 - BACK TO SAN JOSE

Back to San José

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED

CAR DELIVERY

LODGING, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance Playa Grande – San José: 139 km
Duration: 2 ½ hours approx.

Distance Samara – San José: 264 km
Duration: 4 ½ hours approx. 

Accomodation:

On day 15 you have the same accomodation options as on day 1 in San José.

DAY 16 - THE END

The end

On day 16 your Costa Rican adventure unfortunately comes to an end. Today we will transfer you back to the airport for your return journey or onward flight.

BREAKFAST INCLUDED

PRIVATE TRANSFER HOTEL - AIRPORT

Prices and options

Prices in Costa Rica vary according to the season in which you would like to travel and the places you would like to travel too. For example, high season for most of the country is from December until end of April but on the Caribbean side, September and October are high season months. If we leave out the Caribbean region, there are 3 seasons:

  • Low season from May to November
  • High season from December to April
  • Peak season during Christmas and New Years' holidays as well as during the holy week around Easter.

Aside from the season, the price of your personalized itinerary depends on the type of accommodations, activities and transportation you prefer. As we buy all services directly from our local partner in Costa Rica in USD, the exchange rate also can influence the total, depending on the currency you would like to pay in (EUR, CHF, CAD...).

These variables combined with the fact that we offer a custom-made itinerary for every client, is one of the reasons we have created an original tool to request a customized itinerary and price offer. It is called "the YŪGEN compass". It helps you to show us what your holiday should be like and at the same time provides you several images, inspiration and possibilities. There is also space to write down any question you may have or additional information you would like to give us. 

The YŪGEN compass

Use our compass to let us know what kind of holiday you would like and let us guide you in the right direction. Together we will create your custom-made itinerary which fits your style and wishes.

 

N
E
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Important information

Travel insurance

  • Considering the adventurous nature of most of our tours and destinations, we recommend to take out a travel insurance, covering for cancellation and curtailment, medical situations, baggage, emergency evacuation.
  • YŪGEN tours does not provide travel insurance

Medical Precautions

  • Check with your local immunization authority, travel clinic, public health facility or personal physician
  • Visit the WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION website for up to date information www.who.int
  • You will need HEPATITIS A vaccination when traveling to Latin America. We recommend consulting your doctor well before departure. If he / she recommends certain vaccinations, you may have to receive more than one injection spread over a number of weeks or even months. Moreover, the current guidelines can always change without prior notice and depend on the country your are traveling from.
  • If you are traveling from Panama or certain risk countries regarding Yellow Fever to Costa Rica, you may be asked at the border control to provide proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever.
  • A good anti-mosquito spray (with minimum 25% DEET) is a must. A mosquito net and long sleeves and trousers can also offer extra protection. Malaria, Dengue and the Zika virus, although not very represented, are present in some parts of the country, and in certain seasons. Consequently, it is advisable to protect yourself against this en to consult your doctor well before you travel.

Travel documentation

If you do not have the Belgian nationality, you must inquire at the embassy in your country. The following is valid for people with Belgian nationality:

  • An international passport, valid for at least 6 months after your return date.
  • A visa is not required if you stay in Costa Rica for less than 90 days.

Flights

  • Flights are not included in the price of the tour. You are free to choose your flight dates, route, price and airline company.
  • If you opt for flights with a stopover or transfer in the United States of America, please note that you must complete a VISA WAIVER. You can do this up to a minimum of 72 hours before arrival, and this on the website of ESTA. The permission is valid for 2 years and costs approximately 14 USD per person.
  • Before booking your flights, please contact YŪGEN tours first to check whether our local partners are not fully booked on the desired dates.
  • All our tours start in San José. It is therefore recommended that you fly to San José, more specifically to the Juan Santamaría international airport, located near Alajuela. We will ask you to sent us your flight details so we can arrange your transfer to the hotel in San José from the airport Juan Santamaría.
  • When you leave Costa Rica you have to pay the so-called departure tax, which is about 29 $ per person and must be paid in dollars or colones at the counter in the airport.

Car Rental & Insurance

Download the car rental information.