Self-Guided Tours in Costa Rica
Go off the beaten track with a self guided adventure of Costa Rica. Travel and experience the freedom of creating a holiday on your own terms. With 55 tours lasting from 4 days up to 23 days, fulfil your wanderlust and set off on your own adventure!
Excellent
- Choose from 50+ Costa Rica tours
- 50+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
- 24/7 customer support
- S
Susanne • traveled in June
The 8 day tour i booked (on short notice) was really great. it included many highlights regarding nature and action. the accommodations were great, tours as described, no „bad surprises“. all transfers were in time and drivers were goid obes. guides great. english good. food good. communication good. couldn’t rate any better! maybe not the cheapest travel but you pay for not even spending a minute in research or planning. it’s worth it.
Costa Rica Highlights Adventure 8D/7N - S
Stavros • traveled in August
The trip was amazing ! All staff from tourradar has been very helpful.
Full Costa Rica Explorer 14D/13N - K
Kirsten • traveled in January
Our family of 4 with kids (ages 15 and 10) from the USA really enjoyed this trip! We like to see a lot of different things on our trips rather than just lounging. This trip definitely does that. Everything went very smoothly. Accommodations were great, and the food was delicious. All driver pick ups were on time, clean, and courteous. A few improvements or things for other travelers to ask about: I would have liked to get the final, detailed itinerary sooner. The web site indicated we would get it 2-3 weeks before the trip, but I received it less than 2 days before. I was trying to pre-book a couple of excursions in La Fortuna and Monteverde, and it would have been nice to have the confirmed dates and accommodations sooner. Also, I forgot to mention during booking - and no one asked - that we would want vegetarian meals. Most meals included in the package were buffet style, so that was fine. But on the day trip to Isla Tortuga, there wasn’t much for us to eat. We also did not know that the snorkeling at Isla Tortuga was an “add-on” part of the trip. Snorkeling near the main beach isn’t good, so don’t bother bringing snorkel gear if you don’t book the extra excursion. At the end of the trip we stayed in downtown San Jose, so we were the first to be picked up for Isla Tortuga at 5:20am (that’s rough with kids!), but then stopped to pick up people at many other hotels along the way - so we did not even leave the city until about 6:45am. I wondered if there would have been a different hotel to stay in for the end of the trip that would have been closer to west side of the city (later pick up!), but also not too far from the airport for the departure day.
The Best of Costa Rica, Self-Drive
10 best Self-Guided Costa Rica tour packages
Compiled by
SteffCosta Rica travel expert at TourRadar
- Costa Rica Highlights Adventure 8D/7N
- Full Costa Rica Explorer 14D/13N
- The Best of Costa Rica, Self-Drive
- Costa Rica & Manuel Antonio 7 Days, Self-Drive
- Independent Costa Rica Wonders with Tortuguero
- Self Drive Costa Rica - 14 days
- Costa Rica Self Drive 14 Days Diverse Adventures and Activities
- Costa Rica Highlights: San José, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde & Puntarenas - 7 days
- Independent Costa Rica Wonders
- Costa Rica Nature Explorer 8D/7N
Costa Rica Highlights Adventure 8D/7N
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had an amazing time in Costa Rica discovering two very different national parks.”
Yvonne, traveled in July
The scenic paths of Costa Rica await with pre-booked stays at Evergreen Lodge and guided excursions. Flexible departures from San Jose complement self-guided walks in Arenal Volcano National Park and peaceful moments in Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Duration 8 days Destinations San Jose, Monteverde, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano National Park, Tortuguero National Park Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
- US$2,233
Full Costa Rica Explorer 14D/13N
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had an amazing time in Costa Rica! So glad we booked this tour with Bamba Experience.”
Aashfaria, traveled in June
Your Costa Rican story takes shape from San Jose through Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Monteverde. Detailed itineraries guide you while leaving room to enjoy Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve and Santa Teresa's beaches at your leisure.
Duration 14 days Destinations San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio National Park Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
- US$3,052
The Best of Costa Rica, Self-Drive
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was Awesome Tour and tourradar support was available at any point of time with quick response.”
Deepak, traveled in January
Your Costa Rica adventure unfolds at Casa Luna Hotel and Country Lodge, near Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest. Guided tours through Tortuguero National Park and a catamaran voyage to Tortuga Island round out this customizable escape.
Duration 10 days Destinations San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, Tortuga Island Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Destination Services Costa Rica From $1,721
15% Off- US$1,463You save $258
Costa Rica & Manuel Antonio 7 Days, Self-Drive
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We loved the volcanos area so much that we are planning a return visit.”
Georgia, traveled in July
The open roads of Costa Rica beckon with your Daihatsu Bego. Visit Zarcero's topiary gardens, Arenal's hot springs, and Manuel Antonio's beaches freely. Comfortable nights await at Villa Tournon and Montana de Fuego.
Duration 7 days Destinations San Jose, Arenal Volcano National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Destination Services Costa Rica From $713
15% Off- US$606You save $107
The wonders of Costa Rica unfold through your chosen activities. Select between Arenal's hanging bridges or horseback riding, wander San José's Central Market independently, and roam Monteverde's cloud forest trails as you wish.
Duration 9 days Destinations San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal, Monteverde Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Globus From
15% Off- US$2,199
Get around Costa Rica independently with a mid-size 4WD rental car, finding hidden gems like the 75-meter La Fortuna Waterfall and Punta Uva's Caribbean beaches at your own pace. Hike the coastal trail from Kelly Creek to Punta Cahuita spanning 3.5 kilometers, then soak in natural hot springs fed by Arenal's thermal waters surrounded by rainforest cascades. Stay 13 nights in 3-4 star hotels including beachfront properties in Puerto Viejo and mountain lodges near Monteverde's orchid gardens.
Duration 14 days Destinations San Jose, Braulio Carillo National Park, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Cahuita, Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Tamarindo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator On The Go Tours From
15% Off- US$2,855
Drive independently through Costa Rica in a 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser, visiting Corcovado National Park's rainforests and the turquoise waters of Río Celeste. Zipline through Monteverde's cloud forests on a canopy tour, then relax in Arenal's thermal pools near the active volcano. Hike to Montezuma Falls and check out the underground chambers of Venado Caves while taking a boat through Tortuguero's wildlife-rich waterways.
Duration 14 days Destinations San Jose, Cartago, Chirripó, Corcovado National Park, Uvita, Manuel Antonio National Park, Montezuma, Monteverde, La Fortuna, ArenalSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Indie4X4 From
15% Off- US$3,030
Travel around Costa Rica on your own with shared transfers using the Jeep-Boat-Jeep route across Lake Arenal, linking the volcano's lava fields to Monteverde's cloud forests. Stay 2 nights near Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, checking out the 1,670-meter peak within Arenal Volcano National Park at your own pace. Spend 2 nights along the Pacific Coast in Puntarenas, where you can surf, zip-line through canopy tours, or walk the Paseo de los Turistas while trying traditional Churchill desserts.
Duration 7 days Destinations San Jose, Arenal, Monteverde, Puntarenas Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Receptivo Aborigen Tours From $1,169
10% Off- US$1,052You save $117
Costa Rica reveals itself with Local Host guidance. Soak in Arenal's thermal springs, walk Monteverde Cloud Forest's trails, and browse San Jose Central Market's 350+ vendors according to your preferences.
Duration 7 days Destinations San Jose, Arenal, Monteverde Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Globus From
10% Off- US$1,639
Costa Rica Nature Explorer 8D/7N
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Pura vida, really nice experience.”
daniela, traveled in February
Your perfect Costa Rican adventure connects San Jose, Puerto Viejo, and La Fortuna with included transfers. Choose between surfing at Playa Negra, hiking Manzanillo's trails, or wandering the Arenal Volcano area.
Duration 8 days Destinations San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
10% Off- US$1,233
What our customers ask about Self-Guided Tours in Costa Rica
How long in advance should I book accommodations for a self-guided tour in Costa Rica?
For the busy season between December and April book your accommodations 3-4 months ahead Villa Bosque in Manuel Antonio or Magic Mountain Hotel in La Fortuna. You can plan 1-2 months ahead for the green season from May to November when demand is lower. A TourRadar traveler noted: "We booked 3 months ahead for February travel and got our first choice of hotels in all locations."
What's the best time of year for a self-guided tour in Costa Rica?
December through April offers the driest weather and January and February see peak visitor numbers in areas like Arenal and Monteverde. The Caribbean coast near Puerto Viejo has less rain during September and October. A TourRadar traveler shared: "We went in February and had perfect weather for hiking in Arenal and beach time in Manuel Antonio - just occasional afternoon showers in Monteverde which is normal for the cloud forest." The May to November rainy season means fewer tourists but needs more flexible planning.
What are the best regions to visit in Costa Rica for a self-guided tour?
Self-guided travelers often focus on four key regions: Arenal Volcano National Park with its thermal springs and volcanic landscapes Monteverde Cloud Forest home to thousands of plant species Manuel Antonio National Park which combines beaches with jungle trails and the laid-back Caribbean coast around Puerto Viejo. One TourRadar traveler noted "The organization between destinations was excellent allowing us to truly experience Costa Rica's diverse regions from the rainforest to the coast." Many visitors choose to stay at properties like Arenal Springs Resort in La Fortuna or Monteverde Country Lodge.
What kind of accommodation options are available for self-guided travelers?
The range spans from rustic eco-lodges to upscale resorts. Well-rated options include Hotel Lomas del Volcan in La Fortuna which offers volcano views Savegre Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota for nature enthusiasts and Hotel San Bada in Manuel Antonio for easy beach access. A TourRadar reviewer shared: "We loved staying at Cala Lodge in Monteverde - it was perfect for independent travelers with helpful staff and great location."
How reliable is transportation between destinations for self-guided travelers in Costa Rica?
The shuttle network connects major tourist spots with consistent daily service. Common routes include San Jose to La Fortuna (4 hours) La Fortuna to Monteverde (3 hours) and Monteverde to Manuel Antonio (4 hours). Popular pickup points include the Presidente Hotel in San Jose and Hotel San Bada in Manuel Antonio. According to TourRadar travelers: "The transportation was above expectations and on time every time. The drivers were professional and the vehicles comfortable."
What's the best strategy for planning a self-guided itinerary in Costa Rica?
Focus on establishing base locations and explore from there. Begin in San Jose then allocate 2-3 days for key destinations like Arenal (Hotel Magic Mountain) Monteverde (Cala Lodge) and Manuel Antonio (Hotel Villa Bosque). Factor in travel time between locations and keep some schedule flexibility. A TourRadar reviewer advised: "We found 3 days per location ideal - enough time to explore independently and not feel rushed between destinations."