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Tour Overview
Embark on an 8-day self-drive adventure through the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica, starting and ending in the vibrant capital, San José. Discover the cultural richness of San José with its European-inspired National Theatre and charming historic neighborhoods. Journey to Arenal, where the majestic volcano and soothing hot springs await. Explore the lush Arenal Volcano National Park, offering hiking, horseback riding, and breathtaking views from the Sky Tram. Continue to the picturesque Manuel Antonio National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and pristine beaches. Enjoy leisure days soaking up the sun or exploring nearby attractions like Damas Island and Villa Vanilla Spice Plantation. With 7 nights of accommodation and a rental car with unlimited mileage, this tour offers the perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and adventure. ...more ...less
Highlights
San Jose: Explore Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city with its cultural and historical landmarks.
Visit the European-inspired National Theatre and stroll through the charming alleys of historic neighborhoods.
Manuel Antonio: Discover the picturesque national park, known for its wild animals, lush vegetation, and beautiful beaches.
Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike and enjoy the natural hot springs, or take a horseback ride to La Fortuna Waterfall.
Sky Tram and Sky Trek: Experience extraordinary views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal from gondolas or zip lines.
Poas Volcano National Park: Visit one of the world's largest volcanic lakes, Lake Botos, surrounded by a cloud forest.
Jaco Beach: Enjoy a trip to Costa Rica's most visited vacation destination, just an hour from Manuel Antonio.
Itinerary
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Upon arrival to bustling San Jose, our representative will meet and greet you and then direct you to the car rental centre. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Overnight in San Jose.
Day 2
:
SAN JOSE – ARENAL (129km – 4 hrs)
Location: San Jose, Zarcero, Arenal
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: San Bosco or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, after breakfast, depart San Jose driving north. Stop for a photo opportunity in the charming village of Zarcero where you can see the Parque Francisco Alvarado and the Iglesia de San Rafael. The park sits in front of the pink and blue Church at the town centre, which is noted for its topiary garden and shrubs that have been trimmed into the shapes of various animals. Continue to the Arenal area, famous for its volcano, lake and hot springs. You may choose to visit one of the many hot springs facilities that offer visitors an ideal way to relax. Stay for dinner as well, as many of these facilities offer several restaurants (own expense).
Overnight in Arenal.
Day 3
:
ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK
Location: Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, Lake Arenal
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: San Bosco or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a delectable breakfast, you will have the opportunity to visit the Arenal Volcano National Park on your own. You may choose to spend half the day hiking to Arenal National Park, enjoying the natural hot springs throughout the area, or spend the morning or afternoon enjoying a horseback ride through both pastures and rainforest to La Fortuna Waterfall. For extraordinary views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal, the Sky Tram gondolas soar smoothly through the rainforest to an observation deck. You can ride the tram down the same route that you ascended or take a fast-paced Sky Trek zip line tour to the bottom.
Overnight in Arenal.
Day 4
:
ARENAL – MANUEL ANTONIO (240km – 6hrs)
Location: Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Damas Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Plaza Yara or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up to a tasty breakfast, and then drive to Manuel Antonio, one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica due to its beautiful beaches, rich wildlife, and an endless list of activities. Use the balance of the day to enjoy the exotic national park and beaches. Or, take a boat trip through the complex and beautiful estuaries and mangroves surrounding Damas Island. For something different, visit the local sustainable organic Villa Vanilla Spice Plantation which grows a variety of spices and essential oil plants, including vanilla, cocoa, pepper and cinnamon.
Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 5
:
MANUEL ANTONIO
Location: Manuel Antonio
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Plaza Yara or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Recharge your energies with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a slow day of rest and relaxation.
Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 6
:
MANUEL ANTONIO
Location: Manuel Antonio, Jaco Beach
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Plaza Yara or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a rich breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure in Manuel Antonio or take a trip to Jaco to visit Jaco Beach, which is the most visited vacation destination in all of Costa Rica and is only about an hour away from Manuel Antonio.
Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 7
:
MANUEL ANTONIO – SAN JOSE (177km – 4 hrs)
Location: Manuel Antonio, Poas Volcano National Park, Irazu Volcano, Orosi Valley, San Jose
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Villa Tournon or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a tasty breakfast and drive back to San Jose. Consider a stop at Poas Volcano National Park, one of the most visited sites in Costa Rica, which features short easy trails for hiking. A short trip from San Jose, the Poas Volcano contains one of the world's largest volcanic lakes, Lake Botos, which fills an inactive crater and is surrounded by a cloud forest. Or, head to Costa Rica's highest active volcano, Irazu, and on the way back visit the colonial Orosi Valley which is famous for having the oldest church in Costa Rica. If you are not interested in visiting volcanoes, there is plenty to do in San Jose. Visit one of the museums or head to Mercado Central, a very old and unique bustling food market.
Overnight in San Jose.
Day 8
:
DEPARTURE SAN JOSE / CAR DROP-OFF
Location: San José
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy your last breakfast in San Jose, before you check out and head to the car rental centre. Return your vehicle at the car rental facility at the San Jose International Airport prior to your departure flight home.
What's Included
Car Hire
8 days car rental with pick-up and drop-off at Juan Santamaria International Airport, including unlimited mileage.
Meet & Greet
Meet & Greet service upon arrival.
Hotel Taxes
Hotel taxes are included.
What's Not Included
Entrance and Tour Fees
The package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme are not included.
Airport Taxes and Porterage
Airport taxes and airport porterage are not included.
Optional Tours
Optional tours are not included.
International Flights and Visa Fees
International flight tickets, visa fees, and local taxes are not included.
Gratuities
Gratuities for drivers and guides are not included.
Entrance Fees for Optional Activities
Entrance fees for optional activities mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
Car Hire Insurance
LDW & SLC (Loss damage waiver & Supplement Liability Coverage) are obligatory and must be paid directly to Rent a Car.
Damage and Theft
Damage to a third party or to the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, and theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition are not covered.
Fines and Extra Equipment
Fines due to breaking traffic laws and regulations, and any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc) are not included.
Petrol Deposit
A petrol deposit of 100 USD is required and refunded when returning full.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Costa Rica. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.r>
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Please Note
Please note that this tour is a suggested itinerary. While the sites listed may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees
The minimum age to rent a vehicle or be a driver is 21 years
All drivers must have a valid driver's license
The person who signs the contract must have an international credit card, Visa or Master Card, AMEX
Pick-up service at the San José Airport is 24 hours
Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 24 hours of the incident
If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed-upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days.
Deposit by credit card: Visa or Master Card only
For self-guided visits, you must pay your entrance fee directly at the front desk of each park or attraction
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS Day 1, 7 San Jose
Standard Hotel Category = Villa Tournon or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Balmoral or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Park Inn or similar 5* Day 2-3 Arenal
Standard Hotel Category = San Bosco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Montaña de Fuego or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Los Lagos or similar 5*
Day 4-6 Manuel Antonio
Standard Hotel Category = Plaza Yara or similar
Superior Hotel Category = Costa Verde or similar
Deluxe Hotel Category = San Bada or similar
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Car Group A (1-4 pax): Daihatsu Bego or similar
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 7 San Jose
Standard Hotel Category = Villa Tournon or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Balmoral or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Park Inn or similar 5*
Day 2-3 Arenal
Standard Hotel Category = San Bosco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Montaña de Fuego or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Los Lagos or similar 5*
Day 4-6 Manuel Antonio
Standard Hotel Category = Plaza Yara or similar
Superior Hotel Category = Costa Verde or similar
Deluxe Hotel Category = San Bada or similar
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Car Group A (1-4 pax): Daihatsu Bego or similar
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes an 8-day car rental with unlimited mileage, allowing you to explore Costa Rica at your own pace. Pick up and drop off your vehicle at Juan Santamaria International Airport, with options like the Daihatsu Bego for groups of 1-4 people.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights of accommodation with options ranging from standard to deluxe categories. Stay at Villa Tournon or similar in San Jose, San Bosco or similar in Arenal, and Plaza Yara or similar in Manuel Antonio, offering comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
What type of vehicle is included in the car hire for this tour?
The car hire includes a vehicle from Car Group A, such as a Daihatsu Bego or a similar model, suitable for 1-4 passengers.
Are there any meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 7 breakfasts.
What are some activities available in Arenal Volcano National Park?
In Arenal Volcano National Park, you can hike, enjoy natural hot springs, take a horseback ride to La Fortuna Waterfall, or experience the Sky Tram gondolas and Sky Trek zip line tour for views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal.
What can I do in Manuel Antonio during the tour?
In Manuel Antonio, you can enjoy the national park and beaches, take a boat trip through the estuaries and mangroves around Damas Island, or visit the Villa Vanilla Spice Plantation.
What should I consider regarding the car hire insurance?
The Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Supplement Liability Coverage (SLC) are obligatory and must be paid directly to the car rental company. Other exclusions include damage due to negligence, fines, and extra equipment like GPS or baby seats.
Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Reviews of this operator
Brian
Exotic Costa Rica
12-Feb-2022
We were delayed a couple of times in getting to Costa Rica and our tour operator, Roy, was extremely accommodating of the changes. The trip was partially guided, so though lodging and transportation were covered there were a few days where I could have used help coordinating afternoon activities.
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Peter Herbert
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste
11-May-2022
A little aprehensive on 1st day with no tour leader... but ran better that clockwork, a few natural obstacles overcome. Good hotels, transport , drivers AND OUTSTANDING GUIDES.....A THEN THERE WAS THE WILDS OF COSTA RICA AND ITS PEOPLES ....
Jean Walsh
Exotic Costa Rica
17-Mar-2022
This trip was much anticipated and lived up to all of our expectations. We had a wonderful experience. If we had questions, Andres was immediately responsive. It was such a nice feeling to know we could reach him.
Susan Langton
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park
06-Jan-2022
Our trip was well organized, all of the service providers ( transfers, guides, accommodations) we friendly and professional, and each location was as promised. A bit more local information would have been useful in preparing for the trip, but nothing that wasn't able to be accommodated on the fly.
...more ...less
Marianne Brownell
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park
03-Oct-2022
Terrific experience!
Debra R
PURAVIDA CR
26-Jun-2023
Great staff taking care of us along the way! Hotel choices were unique and beautiful and accommodating.
Keith
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste
08-Mar-2022
A good tour with 4 completely different ecosystems. A couple of long travel days.
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of
55%
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
8 Days Starting and ending in San José, Costa Rica
Visiting:
San José, San Jose, Zarcero, Arenal, Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, Lake Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Damas Island, Jaco Beach, Poas Volcano National Park, Irazu Volcano, Orosi Valley
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Consider a stop at Poas Volcano National Park, one of the most visited sites in Costa Rica, which features short easy trails for hiking. A short trip from San Jose, the Poas Volcano contains one of the world's largest volcanic lakes, Lake Botos, which fills an inactive crater and is surrounded by a cloud forest. Or, head to Costa Rica's highest active volcano, Irazu, and on the way back visit the colonial Orosi Valley which is famous for having the oldest church in Costa Rica. If you are not interested in visiting volcanoes, there is plenty to do in San Jose. Visit one of the museums or head to Mercado Central, a very old and unique bustling food market. </p><br/><p><strong>Overnight in San Jose. </strong></p><br/>","lat":"9.783408","lng":"-83.845242"},{"title":"Day 7: MANUEL ANTONIO – SAN JOSE (177km – 4 hrs) ","name":"San Jose","description":"<p>Enjoy a tasty breakfast and drive back to San Jose. Consider a stop at Poas Volcano National Park, one of the most visited sites in Costa Rica, which features short easy trails for hiking. A short trip from San Jose, the Poas Volcano contains one of the world's largest volcanic lakes, Lake Botos, which fills an inactive crater and is surrounded by a cloud forest. Or, head to Costa Rica's highest active volcano, Irazu, and on the way back visit the colonial Orosi Valley which is famous for having the oldest church in Costa Rica. If you are not interested in visiting volcanoes, there is plenty to do in San Jose. Visit one of the museums or head to Mercado Central, a very old and unique bustling food market. </p><br/><p><strong>Overnight in San Jose. </strong></p><br/>","lat":"9.928069","lng":"-84.090725"},{"title":"Day 8: DEPARTURE SAN JOSE / CAR DROP-OFF","name":"San José","description":"<p>Enjoy your last breakfast in San Jose, before you check out and head to the car rental centre. 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