Destinations
This is one amazing self drive holiday, which takes you to lots of different areas of stunning Costa Rica. Beginning at a coffee farm on the outskirts of San Jose, you venture through interesting and varied scenery as you make your way to the ‘put in point’ on the River Pacuare to begin your raft into a unique jungle lodge. After a few nights here you will white water raft out, pick up your vehicle and continue on to the Arenal area, for hikes around the volcano, bathing in thermal springs, a chance to see sloths as well. Travelling through the interior of the country is a feast for the eyes and the final two lodges on this ‘luxury’ itinerary are exceptional in every way. The views, the wildlife, the food, the beaches and not least the hospitality of your hosts will impress on you and allow you to enjoy what could be the perfect holiday? Ask us about Osa Peninsula extensions.
Upon arrival in San Jose you will be met and privately transferred to this coffee farm plantation just 25 mins away from the airport. The rooms are enormous, the food delicious and it makes for a great first night in Costa Rica.
You will be collected by a representative of Pacuare Lodge and transferred to the lodge. En route you will raft for 1-1.5 hr into the lodge (water levels permitting). Arriving in time for lunch. You then enjoy the afternoon doing some of the many activities on offer here (2 activities per day are included), including zip-lining, guided hikes, bird-watching.
Today you will raft for about 3.5 hrs out of Pacuare Lodge (Class 3-5 rapids). This stretch of the Pacuare River flows through canyons and past waterfalls and virgin rainforest. You are likely to catch glimpses of varied birds and other wildlife during the quiet stretches. A deli-style lunch will be served on the riverbank en route. After arrival you will have a chance to change into dry clothes before receiving your rental car and driving to the Arenal area.
For the next 3 nights you will be based at Amor Arenal, a new lodge in the area with exceptional facilities. Here you can enjoy a private Arenal volcano hike with a picnic lunch or enjoy a tour of the indigenous community in this area. Or, enjoy a nature walk to hopefully see a sloth or two as ell as a large variety of birdlife and frogs.
Today make your way westwards to Upala and this wonderful lodge high up with extraordinary views.Origins Lodge, Bijagua. Onsite activities are included in your stay here. Riding fishing, yoga, hiking, bird-watching are some of the things to do here.
Head to the coast today and the Papagayo Peninsula. In wonderful contrast to all that you have experienced thus far on this trip, the Pacific coast is stunning with white sandy beaches and beautiful clear seas. Kasiiya is on an exclusive private peninsula. Here you hand back your rental vehicle before enjoying a few days in paradise.
Take a flight back from Liberia to San Jose where you will connect on your flight back home.
Having a good, quality vehicle is key to every self-drive journey. We work carefully with our local team to source you the best vehicle available for your self-drive journey.
All our itineraries are tailor made, but here are some of our favourite routes and camp combinations.
Simply, because we care. Whether you have travelled in Africa with Safari Drive or whether this is your first journey with us, we will be working hard behind the scenes to support your trip and ensure sure you have a fantastic self drive adventure.
Your entire holiday is designed around your requirements. We will create the perfect trip, at your own pace, to your budget.
All our team in Latin America live in-country and have travelled extensively. Their knowledge and input is key to a successful self-drive safari.
We don’t mark up for our services, we only take commissions from the suppliers we use. Tailor-made does not have to mean expensive.
All our holidays are 100% financially protected.
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