Caribbean jungle to Pacific gold: a coast-to-coast road trip across Costa Rica
From US$781

Caribbean jungle to Pacific gold: a coast-to-coast road trip across Costa Rica

Routing
Created: Saturday, January 17, 2026 - Departure: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Ref ID: 43583262
price per person From
US$781
Based on 2 adults
Created: Saturday, January 17, 2026 - Departure: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Destinations: San Jose, Costa Rica , Cahuita, Costa Rica , Puerto Viejo Sarapiqui, Costa Rica , La Fortuna, Costa Rica , Rincon de la Vieja, Costa Rica , San Jose, Costa Rica

About

Your day to day

View in Google Maps
12 Mar
Car rental
Toyota Rush
Toyota Rush or similar
Includes:
  • Fuel Policy: Return same level as pickup
  • Manual transmission
  • Unlimited mileage
A/C
5 doors
4 people
Routes
Extras (Pay at pick-up office)
See details
12 Mar
1. San Jose
Stay
About the destination: San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, has a very different vibe than most of Latin America with a lot more American influenced architecture and a Mediterranean climate. San Jose is a town in the middle of nature. Located in the Central Valley, the city is surrounded by the most varied forms of wildlife as well as the volcanos, Poás and Irazú. It is also the central point from where you can reach the country’s rich National Parks, its gorgeous beaches, its amazing rivers and its pristine mountains.San José has certain attraction on its own like the National Theatre, the Central Market, the National Museum or the Metropolitan Cathedral. Moreover, its friendly people give a lively vibe to the city, something you can appreciate in the city’s many restaurants and bars. Some museums and buildings give away their colonial past and European artistic influences. San Jose also has much to offer and it is a city of great historical and cultural significance.
More info
12 Mar
Accommodation
1 Night
Hotel Fleur De Lys
San Jose - Show on map > 1.2 km from Center
8.2
Very good
2320
Airport Shuttle
Restaurant
Parking
Standard
WITH BREAKFAST
We love it
13 Mar
Car journey 200 Kilometers - 3h 19m
San Jose
Cahuita
13 Mar
2. Cahuita
Stay
About the destination: Cahuita is a small town located south Caribbean of Costa Rica and belongs to the province of Limon. There is an Afro-Caribbean culture that gives rise to a variety of experiences. Cahuita offers a variety of accommodations for different budgets (from cheap to luxurious rooms). You can stay in a cabin, a bungalow, a hotel, resort, etc. There are also hotels with pool and facing the sea. Cahuita is known for its famous National Park and its beaches. Cahuita National Park is one of the most beautiful in the country. It has a varied ecosystem, where you can see many birds, sloths, reptiles, and marvel coral reef where you can enjoy snorkeling!
More info
13 Mar
Accommodation
2 Nights
Atlantida Lodge
Cahuita - Show on map > 1.4 km from Center
8.4
Very good
168
Airport Shuttle
Outdoor pool
Beach hotels
STANDARD, GARDEN VIEW
WITH BREAKFAST
Free cancellation
15 Mar
Car journey 180 Kilometers - 2h 46m
Cahuita
Puerto Viejo Sarapiqui
15 Mar
3. Puerto Viejo Sarapiqui
Stay
About the destination: Puerto Viejo is the first district of the canton of Sarapiquí, in the province of Heredia, Costa Rica. It has an area of 426.73 km² and has an estimated population of 20,174 inhabitants (2011), with an average population density of 47.28 inhabitants / km². The head is the homonymous city of Puerto Viejo, located 82 km north of the city of Heredia. It has an altitude of 37 meters above sea level. The zone is of flat topography, humid climate and it is furrowed by mighty rivers of divagante course, being the main one the dirty River. Puerto Viejo is on the banks of the Sarapiquí River (near its confluence with the Puerto Viejo River), where a small fluvial port is located for coastal shipping of shallow draft vessels.
More info
15 Mar
Accommodation
1 Night
Ara Ambigua Lodge
Puerto Viejo Sarapiqui - Show on map > 0.7 km from Center
8.5
Very good
424
Airport Shuttle
Spa
Outdoor pool
CLASSIC
WITH BREAKFAST
We love it
16 Mar
Car journey 73 Kilometers - 1h 16m
Puerto Viejo Sarapiqui
La Fortuna
16 Mar
4. La Fortuna
Stay
About the destination: La Fortuna is the head community of the 7th district of the same name, which is part of the Canton of San Carlos, which in turn belongs to the province of Alajuela, located in the Center-North of Costa Rica. The attractive beauty of the landscape of the district, its forests, the wide variety of tourist activities available, such as canopy, rafting, bird watching, sport fishing, hiking, thermal baths, and in particular its proximity to the Arenal volcano, make it one of the most important tourist destinations in Costa Rica.
More info
16 Mar
Accommodation
2 Nights
Eco Arenal Hotel
La Fortuna - Show on map > 1.6 km from Center
8.5
Very good
662
Transfer service
Outdoor pool
Parking
ROOM, DOUBLE BED
WITH BREAKFAST
We love it
18 Mar
Car journey 170 Kilometers - 3h 39m
La Fortuna
Rincon de la Vieja
18 Mar
5. Rincon de la Vieja
Stay
About the destination: Nestled in the northwestern region of Costa Rica, Rincón de la Vieja is a hidden gem that promises a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. This stunning destination is centered around the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, which is part of a larger national park. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a landscape rich with geothermal wonders, from bubbling hot springs to steamy fumaroles, all set against the backdrop of lush tropical forests teeming with wildlife. For the adventure-seekers, Rincón de la Vieja offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels lead explorers through diverse ecosystems, past cascading waterfalls, and up to breathtaking viewpoints. The trek to the summit of the volcano is a rewarding challenge, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Canopy tours and zip-lining provide an exhilarating way to experience the park from above, while horseback riding and mountain biking offer different perspectives on the ground. After a day of exploration, the natural hot springs provide the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. The therapeutic properties of these mineral-rich waters are well-known, making them a popular stop for visitors looking to unwind. Nearby, the Blue Lagoon (La Cangreja Waterfall) offers another serene spot to cool off and soak in the tranquil surroundings. The park's rivers and waterfalls are not only picturesque but also ideal for swimming and picnicking. Rincón de la Vieja is also a haven for biodiversity. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will be thrilled by the variety of species that call this park home, from colorful parrots and toucans to howler monkeys and tapirs. Guided tours are available for those who wish to delve deeper into the park's ecological treasures, providing insight into the unique flora and fauna of the region. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a closer connection with nature, Rincón de la Vieja is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences.
More info
18 Mar
Accommodation
2 Nights
Buena Vista del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
Rincon de la Vieja - Show on map > 7.7 km from Center
8.4
Very good
987
Swim-up bar
Transfer service
Outdoor pool
LAKE
WITH BREAKFAST
Free cancellation
We love it
20 Mar
Car journey 235 Kilometers - 4h 23m
Rincon de la Vieja
San Jose
20 Mar
6. San Jose
Stay
About the destination: San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, has a very different vibe than most of Latin America with a lot more American influenced architecture and a Mediterranean climate. San Jose is a town in the middle of nature. Located in the Central Valley, the city is surrounded by the most varied forms of wildlife as well as the volcanos, Poás and Irazú. It is also the central point from where you can reach the country’s rich National Parks, its gorgeous beaches, its amazing rivers and its pristine mountains.San José has certain attraction on its own like the National Theatre, the Central Market, the National Museum or the Metropolitan Cathedral. Moreover, its friendly people give a lively vibe to the city, something you can appreciate in the city’s many restaurants and bars. Some museums and buildings give away their colonial past and European artistic influences. San Jose also has much to offer and it is a city of great historical and cultural significance.
More info
20 Mar
Accommodation
1 Night
Hotel Casa Roland San José
San Jose - Show on map > 5.7 km from Center
9.1
Superb
2643
Free Internet
24-hour reception
Hotel safe
DELUXE, QUEEN BED
WITH BREAKFAST
Remarks:

Rate based on 2 adults sharing a double room in standard category. International flights not included — the programme starts and ends at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), San José, Costa Rica. Rental car (compact SUV, automatic transmission, unlimited mileage, full insurance) included throughout the itinerary. Best season: December to April (dry season). Green season (May–November) offers lush landscapes and lower rates, though some unpaved roads require caution. Recommended optional activities: white-water rafting on the Río Pacuare, canopy zipline, guided nocturnal wildlife walk, catamaran sunset cruise. Single supplement available on request. Ref.: IT 43583262.

price per person From
US$781
Based on 2 adults
Customize it!
Book this idea
This idea includes
Destinations 6
Accommodations 6
Cars 1
Contact us