Ultimate Costa Rica Itinerary: Off the Beaten Track Road Trip

Costa Rica just hits differently. It’s one of the best places in the world for eco-tourism, and I absolutely love coming back here. You have rainforests, volcanoes, and an incredible variety of wildlife waiting for you.

This is exactly why planning a detailed Costa Rica itinerary is important, because there’s just too much to see. So here are a few ideas for you.

This Costa Rica road trip is different, we focus on places that are a little more under the radar. And we didn’t head to the Pacific or Caribbean coast. If you’re craving something unique, this itinerary for Costa Rica is perfect for exploring the natural beauty without the crowds.

This itinerary mixes adventure, relaxation, wildlife and some seriously cool local experiences.

Overview: How to Plan a Costa Rica Itinerary

First things first, let’s talk about the essentials that you can’t plan a Costa Rica itinerary without, such as the duration of your trip, how much to plan, and more.

Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary Sample

• Day 1: Arrival in San José: Relax near the airport or explore the Central Market.
• Day 2: Sarapiquí: Night tour at La Tirimbina Reserve and rafting on Rio Sarapiquí.
• Day 3: Boca Tapada: Boat tour on Rio San Carlos.
• Day 4: Maquenque Ecolodge in Boca Tapada: Cacao tour and rainforest hike.
• Day 5: La Fortuna and Arenal
• Day 6: Departure – Return to San José

How Long to Stay in Costa Rica?

For a well-rounded road trip around Costa Rica, I recommend 5 to 7 days. This gives you enough time to explore off-the-beaten-track spots like Sarapiquí, and Boca Tapada without feeling rushed.

You’ll have time for different activities like rafting, jungle hikes, and visiting Poás Volcano, while also leaving room for relaxing. You’re in Costa Rica after all!

If you want to explore more of the country’s top spots like Arenal or Monteverde, consider extending your stay to 10 to 14 days.

How Much to Budget for a Trip to Costa Rica?

Unlike what many people think, Costa Rica isn’t really a cheap country to travel to, but there are ways to save money.

For a mid-range budget, expect to spend around $100-$150 per day, which includes accommodation, meals, activities, and car rental. For a week-long trip, that’s around $700-$1,050 per person.

On the other hand, if you want to splurge on luxury ecolodges or extra excursions, your budget could go up to $200+ per day.

Needless to say, you always account for entrance fees, tours, and petrol costs.

What are the Best Off the Beaten Track Spots in Costa Rica?

If you want to avoid the tourist crowds, head to lesser-known spots like Sarapiquí, known for its rivers and night jungle tours. And Boca Tapada, a wildlife haven where you can take a boat tour along the Rio San Carlos.

Another hidden gem is Maquenque Ecolodge, surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife, offering intimate cacao and rainforest tours.

For something different, visit Poás Volcano National Park for dramatic crater views, and Sarchí for its traditional hand-painted oxcarts.

Can You Drive in Costa Rica?

Yes, you can drive in Costa Rica with a valid driver’s license from your home country. An international driving permit (IDP) isn’t required as long as you’re staying for less than 90 days.

However, having an IDP can be helpful in case you need it for insurance purposes or if local authorities ask for it. I found Costa Rica’s roads to be generally well-marked, but some rural areas have rough terrain. For this reason, I recommend renting a 4×4 for off-the-beaten-path routes.

Ultimate 5-Day Costa Rica Itinerary

We’ve covered some important elements to consider when planning your holiday in Costa Rica.

I’ll go through the main section with the itinerary day by day to start your trip the right way and plan the best possible adventurous trip around the country. Let’s get started!

Day 1: Arrival in San José

Your journey kicks off in San José, the capital of Costa Rica. Most travellers just use San José as a pit stop, but it has a charm of its own if you know where to look.

This wasn’t my first time in Costa Rica as I went watching baby sea turtles in Tortuguero before so I didn’t stop in the capital this time.

And since our main focus is the road trip, I recommend finding a hotel near the airport for the first night. This way, you can rest after your flight and be ready to hit the road without dealing with San José’s sometimes hectic traffic the next morning.

However, if you arrive early or feel like exploring, San José has a couple of cool places worth checking out. The Central Market (Mercado Central) is a nice place to walk around and soak up the local culture.

Here, you’ll find small stalls selling fresh fruits, coffee, souvenirs, and traditional foods like casado or gallo pinto. It’s a great way to get a feel for everyday life in Costa Rica.

If you’re into history or architecture, the National Theatre is a beautiful building with a rich history. For a more relaxed vibe, grab a table at a Soda (Costa Rican local eatery) for some authentic Costa Rican food.

Last but definitely not least, if you appreciate a good cup of coffee, head to Hacienda Doka. It’s the real deal when it comes to Costa Rican coffee, as the volcanic soil is perfect to grow coffee beans.

I took a tour and it was fascinating to see the process, capped off with a delicious, strong coffee. And I have been reliably informed this is the coffee you want to take home as your souvenir. Definitely a must-do.

Where to Stay in San Jose, Costa Rica

As you can expect, there are plenty of accommodation options in San Jose, and the ones below are some of the best you can stay at when starting a Costa Rica itinerary.

Luxury: Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

For a touch of luxury, Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen offers elegance mixed with rich history. Located just minutes from San José, this colonial-style hotel has lush gardens, mountain views, and all the amenities you’d expect.

Enjoy a world-class spa, two outdoor pools, and fine dining. Whether you’re in the mood for golf or want to relax by the pool, it’s got you covered in style. Plus, the airport is only a short drive away.

Mid-Range: Casa Garitas GuestHouse

Casa Garitas GuestHouse is your cosy, home-away-from-home in Costa Rica. This mid-range option offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly hosts that make you feel like family.

Located in a quiet area, it’s perfect to relax before the big day tomorrow driving. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained.

Plus, you’re not far from local restaurants and shops, making it a convenient base without breaking the bank.

Budget: Toucan Hostel

If you’re on a budget, Toucan Hostel in Costa Rica is where the action is. It’s a fun and affordable spot for backpackers, solo travellers, or anyone who wants a laid-back vibe without spending much.

The hostel offers basic but comfortable accommodations and a shared kitchen to cook your own meals. They also have private rooms if that’s your preference.

There’s also a common area where you can meet fellow travellers, and that’s always a bonus.

Day 2: Bajos del Toro and Sarapiquí

Your adventure starts right as you leave San José and drive about two hours northeast to Sarapiquí. This region is a dream for nature lovers, as gorgeous rainforests, rivers, and plenty of wildlife surround it.

The drive itself is scenic, taking you through small towns and farmlands, with mountains in the distance. As you get closer to Sarapiquí, you’ll notice the air feels fresher, and the landscape becomes greener.

Carataras del Toro

Cataratas del Toro is one of Costa Rica’s most impressive waterfalls, located in the central highlands near the town of Bajos del Toro.

The waterfall is 90 metres high (about 300 feet) and the hike to the base of the falls takes about 20-30 minutes and offers stunning views along the way. Be warned, it is steep!

That being said, there’s more to explore. Along the main waterfall, you’ll find a series of smaller falls, equally beautiful, which are all 5 to 15 minutes walk away:

• La Pintada
• Turquesa
• Celestial
• Posa Azul
• Las Gemelas
• Tepezquinte

The area offers a peaceful and uncrowded experience, with well-maintained trails leading to various viewing points. Don’t forget your insect repellent and your camera!

And on your way please consider Restaurante Freddo Fresas. An amazing and affordable Costa Rican restaurant that started by simply selling strawberries. We stopped for an hour or so before heading to the waterfall, trying a few local dishes and even strawberry beer!

La Tirimbina Reserve

Once you’ve arrived and settled into Sarapiquí, it’s time to discover the wild side of Costa Rica. Your first stop is the La Tirimbina Reserve, a privately owned nature reserve that’s known for its incredible biodiversity.

It’s one of the best spots in the region to see wildlife up close. You can take guided tours here throughout the day, but the real magic happens at night.

I suggest a night tour from around 7 or 8 PM, when the jungle truly comes alive. As the sun sets, the forest transforms, and a whole new world of creatures come out to play.

You’ll hear the croaking of frogs, the rustling of leaves as bats swoop overhead, and the occasional distant call of a monkey.

The tour guides are experts in spotting nocturnal animals, so don’t be surprised if you come face-to-face with frogs, tarantulas, caiman, and other creatures.

Where to Stay in Sarapiquí

After a long second day driving around the northern part of Costa Rica, all you want to do is check into a nice, comfortable hotel room, and Sarapiquí has everything you need. Here are excellent options.

Hotel El Bambu

Hotel El Bambu in Sarapiqui offers a tranquil setting surrounded by nature. It’s a great base for exploring the nearby rainforests and wildlife reserves. The rooms are spacious, with balconies overlooking the lush tropical gardens.

You’ll enjoy the on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, and guided tours that give you a real taste of Costa Rica’s biodiversity. The best part? Rooms are just about $100 per night, which is a bargain for the value you get.

Yatama Rainforest Ecolodge

For an immersive jungle experience, Yatama Rainforest Ecolodge in Sarapiqui is the place to be. This eco-friendly lodge is tucked deep in the rainforest, and you’ll have rustic yet comfortable cabins with breathtaking views.

You’ll fall asleep to the sounds of wildlife and wake up surrounded by nature. Perfect for eco-conscious travellers, Yatama focuses on sustainability and offers guided hikes to explore the biodiversity of the area.

Eco Guest House

Eco Guest House in Sarapiqui is a charming, eco-conscious option to experience nature without sacrificing comfort.

Surrounded by rainforest, the guest house is committed to sustainability while providing cosy, clean rooms. You’ll love the peaceful vibe and the opportunity to spot wildlife right outside your door.

It’s a great spot for birdwatching or just relaxing in a natural setting. Plus, the location is ideal for discovering the Sarapiqui region.

Day 3: Rafting and Departure for Boca Tapada

The next day, get ready for some serious adventure. After the peaceful night tour, it’s time to pick up the pace with a rafting tour on the Rio Sarapiquí.

Rafting on Rio Sarapiquí

Rio Sarapiquí is known for its mix of calm sections where you can enjoy the scenery and fun, exciting rapids that will give you the adrenaline rush you’re in for.

The rafting tours here cater to all levels, so you won’t have issues if you’ve never done it before.

As you paddle through the rainforest, you’ll see monkeys, toucans, and even sloths along the banks.

It’s the perfect combo of adrenaline and nature. I wasn’t this lucky, but our tour guide said that they occasionally spot some river otters playing in the water!

Sarapiquí to Boca Tapada

After the perfect start of the day in Sarapiquí, it’s time to head further off the beaten track to Boca Tapada, a remote area in northern Costa Rica.

The drive takes around two and a half hours. Boca Tapada is the kind of place where you can truly disconnect. It’s not swarming with tourists, and the unspoiled jungle makes you feel like you’re discovering a hidden paradise.

Where to Stay in Boca Tapada

I stayed at Maquenque Ecolodge and loved it here. They have a range of treehouses and lodges right in the rainforest. It can be a little pricey, so no worries I have a few more options for you below.

Luxury: Maquenque Ecolodge

Maquenque Ecolodge offers a unique, luxurious stay deep in the heart of nature. Nestled in a private wildlife reserve, it’s perfect if you’re a nature lover (you’ll also be comfortable).

The eco-lodge features spacious bungalows and unique treehouses set on stilts! They either tower above or sit right next to a peaceful lagoon, giving you amazing views of the rainforest.

You’ll wake up to the sounds of exotic birds and even spot monkeys nearby. As you can see from the photo, there’s an amazing pool to take a dip when it’s too hot.

Mid-Range: La Laguna Del Lagarto Eco-Lodge

La Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge offers stunning mountain views in Pital, surrounded by lush greenery, and it’s probably one of the best properties in the area.

Here, you’ll find cosy rooms with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and parking. A hearty buffet breakfast kicks off the day, and activities like cycling add a touch of adventure to your stay.

The lodge also provides a convenient airport shuttle, which is really nice.

Mid-Range: Boca Tapada Lodge

Boca Tapada Lodge strikes the perfect balance between comfort and nature. Located near the San Carlos River, this mid-range lodge offers beautiful cabins surrounded by lush greenery.

It’s a great choice to see Costa Rica’s wildlife without sacrificing comfort. The lodge organises guided hikes, boat tours, and birdwatching expeditions, giving you plenty of ways to experience the outdoors.

Simply put, it’s a great place to relax for a day!

Budget: Cabaña Boca Tapada

Cabaña Boca Tapada is a no-frills, budget-friendly option for those wanting to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

The rustic cabins are simple but offer all the essentials, with a great location near the San Carlos River. You’ll be close to nature, making it easy to spot wildlife and explore the outdoors without breaking the bank.

It’s an ideal choice for adventurers who don’t need luxury but still want to enjoy the beauty of the region.

Day 4: Boca Tapada

The best reason to travel to Boca Tapada is Maquenque Ecolodge, and they have 3 tours available, and I took all of them on day 4.

Boat Trip to Nicaragua!

One of the best ways to experience Boca Tapada is by taking a boat tour on Rio San Carlos. This river forms part of the border with Nicaragua, and the area is rich with wildlife.

As you glide down the river, the quiet and calm of the jungle is only broken by the occasional bird call or the splash of a caiman slipping into the water.

You’ll see countless species of birds, like herons, kingfishers, toucans, and maybe even the rare green macaw. There’s also a good chance you’ll spot monkeys playing in the trees and caimans lurking near the riverbanks.

This was one of the places I saw the most birdilfe. Including the very rare King Vulture! If you’re a birder make sure you check out the full video on YouTube.

The boat tour is a great way to relax and take in the scenery, we even stopped at a little cafe right on the Nicaraguan border. This is a must do!

Cocoa and Coffee Tour

The boat tour lasts a few good hours, so you’ll want to have lunch after it. But once you’re done with your break, the cacao tour is the perfect continuation.

Costa Rica has a long history with cacao, and this tour goes through the whole process, from growing the cacao plants to turning them into chocolate. We did our tour with the owner of Maquenque Ecolodge.

Maquenque Ecolodge grows or sources 70% of the produce it serves on their own grounds!

You’ll walk through the plantation, learn how the cacao is harvested, and see the traditional methods used to turn raw cacao into delicious chocolate.

And of course, the best part, you’ll get to taste freshly made chocolate and coffee along the way. This tour is not only delicious but also a great way to learn about Costa Rica’s agricultural traditions.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes, and you can then enjoy their rainforest tour in the evening after dinner.

Rainforest Tour

In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots for a rainforest tour. Maquenque Ecolodge is located in one of the most biodiverse areas in Costa Rica, so expect to see all kinds of wildlife during your walk.

The 2.5-hour guided tour will take you through the thick rainforest, where you’ll see birds, exotic plants, and maybe even a few frogs or lizards. The sound of the jungle is all around you as you walk, from birds singing to leaves rustling, and insects buzzing.

You’ll also see coatis, which are common in Costa Rica. It’s the perfect way to connect with nature and fully appreciate the rich biodiversity that Costa Rica is famous for.

We also took a night tour here with Laguna Lagarto Ecolodge, a fantastic property who also organised our boat trip. This is another option for a place to stay and they have a huge number of caiman to spot at night.

Day 5 & 6: Arenal & La Fortuna

No Costa Rica itinerary would be complete without visiting Arenal and La Fortuna. This would be my second time here, and what a treat it was to be back. Here are a few of the things you must do on your visit, and these include on day 5 and 6.

Sloth Watching Tour

Start your day with a sloth-watching tour, finding them in the wild. I took this unique trip with Callidryas Tours, and their team is based in La Fortuna.

When it comes to sloth-watching, it’s essential you find a reputable company who finds them in the wild, in their natural habitat. Please don’t support “Sloth Sanctuaries” who keep sloths in small enclosures with no intention of returning them to the wild.

These gentle, slow-moving creatures are masters of camouflage, but with your expert guide, you’ll get to see them in their natural habitat. The tour guides know the regular hangouts, have access to private farms and communicate with other guides to help you find the sloths.

The only downside (if you’re a night owl) is that the tour starts early, we left at 6.00 AM to have better chances to see the sloths.

Hanging Bridges Tour at Mistico Park

After breakfast, head to Mistico Park to check out the iconic Hanging Bridges in La Fortuna. This is one of the best ways to experience the rainforest from above.

You’ll walk across several suspension bridges that offer incredible views of the treetops and the surrounding jungle.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like spider monkeys, hummingbirds, tarantulas, and maybe even deadly vipers.

You could easily spend hours here but we resumed our road trip in Costa Rica after about 2 hours, which was good enough for us!

Arenal Volcano National Park

Of course, before leaving La Fortuna, make sure to visit the famous Arenal Volcano National Park, where the iconic volcano dominates the skyline.

The park offers several hiking trails, some of which take you through old lava fields from past eruptions. You’ll also see unique flora and fauna that thrive in the volcanic soil.

Arenal is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, so while it’s not currently erupting, the sight of its massive, symmetrical cone is amazing.

Like I said, there are a few hiking trails, but we did the Arenal 1968 Forest Trail which we completed in 2 hours, and we got some serious views of the forest.

La Fortuna Waterfall and Zip-lining

Wrap up your day with a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. After a short but steep hike down, you’ll reach the base of the falls, where 70 meters of water cascade into a crystal-clear pool.

Once at the bottom, take a dip in the water or relax by the riverbanks. The hike back up can be a bit challenging, but the experience is well worth it for the breathtaking views and refreshing atmosphere.

After the waterfall, I recommend taking a canopy tour. This fun activity lets you zip-line through the treetops of the rainforest, and you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of the jungle.

You’ll glide from platform to platform, you’ll feel the rush of adrenaline while enjoying panoramic views of Arenal’s landscape.

I joined the 3-hour canopy tour with Arenal Aventure World and they definitely knew how to keep us safe and entertained, so check them out!

Poás Volcano National Park

If you have time then a highlight of your Costa Rica itinerary is Poás Volcano National Park. The national park is home to one of the world’s largest active craters. The park itself is stunning, with incredible greenery and towering trees.

Once you reach the crater, you’ll be greeted by unbelievable views of the active volcano. The crater itself is massive, and depending on the weather, you might see steam rising from its depths.

The hike up to the crater isn’t too difficult, and I would say it’s an accessible spot for most travellers. Just be sure to check the weather before you go, as the clouds can sometimes hide the view.

When you join the hiking trip, they give you a helmet and a short video to watch, which is nice to have a little more information about the national park.

Where to Stay in Arenal

In case you want to modify this itinerary or stay a little longer than a week, these are amazing picks in Arenal to spend one night or more.

Luxury: Hotel Arenal Glamping

Hotel Arenal Glamping in Fortuna blends luxury and nature, just a short drive from La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs.

You’ll get to stay in air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and enjoy free WiFi, a terrace, and parking. The highlight here is the outdoor pool with stunning views, a hot tub, and wellness options like spa treatments and yoga.

Other than that, you’ll love waking up in the morning with a delicious breakfast before exploring nearby attractions, cycling, or walking around the area.

Mid-range: Hotel Campestre Arenal

Nestled in La Fortuna, Hotel Campestre Arenal is a great option and you’ll have spotless, modern rooms in an authentic house. Essentially, that’s what we travel to Costa Rica for!

The rooms are air-conditioned and include a shared space with a fully equipped kitchen, as well as a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.

Close to La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs, the lodge also provides an airport shuttle.

Budget: Rio Danta Hostel

A great option if you travel to La Fortuna on a budget is Rio Danta Hostel. There are no private rooms here, but the dorms can accommodate up to 4 people, which is convenient.

You’ll enjoy free WiFi, a communal kitchen, and clean, comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. Conveniently close to La Fortuna Waterfall, the hostel also offers a paid airport shuttle.

Where to Stay close to San Jose

I spent the last night of my Costa Rica road trip in the Alajuela area, and I personally stayed at Hotel Buena Vista Chic, which was excellent, and I recommend it.

For more affordable options, check out the hotels below, you’ll love them!

Luxury: Hotel Buena Vista Chic

Hotel Buena Vista Chic offers a luxurious escape with breathtaking views of the Central Valley. Set in the hills above Alajuela, this boutique hotel combines modern comfort with a laid-back vibe.

You’ll love the stylish rooms, infinity pool, and beautiful garden. The views are unforgettable, especially at sunset. And if that wasn’t enough, the airport is only 15 minutes away!

Mid-Range: Hotel Vista Linda Montaña

Hotel Vista Linda Montaña is a cosy, mid-range hotel with stunning views of the Central Valley. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the nearby city of Alajuela or before heading to the airport.

The rooms are comfortable and well-kept, with terraces where you can sit back and soak in the views. The friendly service and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place for travellers who want a relaxing stay without spending a fortune.

Budget: Hotel Casa Tago

Hotel Casa Tago is a great budget option when passing through Alajuela. It’s simple, clean, and offers all the basics you need for a short stay.

The hotel’s location is super convenient, especially if you’re heading to or from the airport. The friendly staff and relaxed vibe make it feel welcoming, and the small garden area with the pool is perfect for relaxing after a day of travel.

You get great value for your money without any unnecessary extras.

Day 6: Departure from San José

If you want to explore more of San José, check out the Jade Museum with a massive collection of pre-Columbian artefacts, or the Costa Rican Art Museum to check out local art, both traditional and modern, in a beautiful building that used to be an airport terminal!

Or perhaps find time to swing by the Butterfly Farm or the small but beautiful Alajuela Cathedral. Either way, make sure to leave some time to pack and get to the airport.

FAQ About Costa Rica

Before ending this Costa Rica itinerary, let’s go through some FAQs that you may have as a first timer. I travelled around Costa Rica with Michele from Costa Rica NEO Travel. Michele was an an amazing tour guide and excellent and spotting birdlife and wildlife.

Watching Michele from CR Neo Travel’s reaction to spotting a King Vulture was a real highlight. You can’t fake that kind of passion for birdlife!

Should I Travel to Costa Rica on My Own or With a Tour Guide?

Going solo in Costa Rica means flexibility and the freedom to go at your own pace. You can plan your trip as you wish, rent a car and find hidden gems.

However, hiring a guide has excellent perks too. Guides have insider knowledge, handle logistics and make sure you don’t miss the cloud forests or national parks.

Travelling with Costa Rica NEO Travel was incredible and this is the option I would recommend.

Of course, they’re especially useful for activities like birdwatching or remote areas. If you’re adventurous and can plan, go solo. If you prefer stress-free travel with expert knowledge, a guide is the way to go.

What are the Must-See in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has everything. Start with Bajos del Toro and Sarapiquí where you can see the iconic Carataras del Toro and the stunning La Tirimbina Reserve.

Don’t miss Boca Tapada where you can take a boat trip to the Nicaraguan Border.

Of course, make sure to check out the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna, two of the most beautiful places in the country, with hanging bridges at Mistico Park. If you like taking photos, this is the place to be.

Is Costa Rica Worth Visiting?

Yes, Costa Rica is absolutely worth visiting. Costa Rica is a paradise if you like nature, and you’ll see incredible biodiversity, such as sloths, toucans and monkeys in their natural habitat.

There’s more, you can go ziplining, rafting on the river, and go surfing at some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Costa Rica also prioritizes eco-tourism so you can travel responsibly. And the locals, known as Ticos, are super friendly.

Conclusion

This off-the-beaten-track Costa Rica itinerary gives you a taste of the hidden gems in the country as well as some popular places you simply can’t miss.

I had a wonderful time driving around Costa Rica and I’m confident you’ll love your time with this comprehensive itinerary. And let’s just take a moment to appreciate the birdlife I saw below!!

Thank you for reading until the end, and feel free to write any questions you may have below in the comments!