Travel guide
A natural refuge home to more than 5% of the world's biodiversity, Costa Rica is the queen of sustainable tourism and wild nature. Between majestic volcanoes (Arenal, Poás), misty cloud forests (Monteverde) and preserved coasts bordered by the Pacific and the Caribbean Sea, the country delivers wonder every day.
This guide, designed by the TripCompanion specialists, gives you the keys to a successful Costa Rica road trip in 2027: a day-by-day itinerary, budget, car rental and on-the-ground tips.
Volcanoes and hot springsArenal volcano, hanging bridges, waterfalls and thermal hot springs around La Fortuna.
Monteverde cloud forestGiant ziplines and the chance to spot the resplendent quetzal.
Tortuguero and CorcovadoCanals, sea turtles, jaguars and toucans: wildlife in all its splendour.
Pacific beachesManuel Antonio, Samara and Santa Teresa for surfing and relaxing.
| Expense | Budget / Economy | Comfort / Mid-range | Premium / Luxury ecolodge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | €35 - €60 (cabinas / B&B) | €80 - €140 (charming ecolodge) | €250+ (luxury wilderness resort) |
| Meals (per day) | €15 - €25 (traditional sodas) | €35 - €60 (fusion restaurants) | €90+ (local fine dining) |
| Car rental (per day) | €40 - €60 (sedan / compact SUV) | €70 - €110 (off-road 4x4) | €130+ (large 7-seat 4x4) |
| Park entries & activities | €15 - €25 / park | €40 - €80 (guides + ziplines) | €120+ (exclusive private tours) |
| Total budget (12 days) | €1,100 - €1,400 / person | €1,800 - €2,400 / person | €3,800+ / person |
Excluding international return flights.
1. Budget meals: the "sodas": To eat fresh, hearty, typical food without overspending, go for sodas (small family restaurants). Ask for a casado (rice, black beans, plantains, salad and meat or fish) for around €7 to €9.
2. Booking national parks: Manuel Antonio National Park requires an advance online booking with a fixed time slot on the SINAC website. No tickets are sold at the entrance.
3. A certified guide is recommended: To spot often-camouflaged wildlife (sloths, snakes, dart frogs, toucans), hire a certified naturalist guide at the park entrance, for example at Corcovado or Cahuita.
The best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April, during the dry season, which is ideal for enjoying Pacific beaches and exploring national parks.
An SUV or 4x4 is strongly recommended to reach areas such as Monteverde, the Nicoya Peninsula or Drake Bay with confidence, as some roads there are unpaved tracks.
The average budget for 2 weeks in Costa Rica is between €1,500 and €2,300 per person (excluding flights), given national park entry fees and vehicle rental.
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Planning your trip
This page provides a starting point for planning. Prices, availability, opening hours, access conditions and local rules can change; confirm these details with providers before booking. Your personalised travel journal is tailored to your dates, budget and priorities.
If you travel with a dog, check pet policies and restrictions for each stop directly. Have a question about the service or spotted something to correct? Contact Amélie.
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