Highlights of Costa Rica

During a road trip through Costa Rica, you’ll discover a wealth of natural highlights found nowhere else in the world. The majestic Arenal Volcano, with its perfect cone shape, is a must-see where you can relax in natural hot springs. In the mystical cloud forest of Monteverde, you’ll walk among the clouds and spot colourful quetzal birds. Tortuguero National Park, often referred to as the “Little Amazon,” is explored by boat through a maze of waterways where turtles nest and crocodiles bask in the sun. The beaches of Manuel Antonio combine lush jungle with crystal-clear waters, where sloths move slowly through the treetops.

Individual Road Trips

For travellers who like to set their own pace, individual road trips through Costa Rica are ideal. With a rental car, you can explore this diverse country in complete freedom, deciding for yourself where to stop and how long to stay. Would you like an extra day near Arenal Volcano, or would you rather linger on the beaches? The choice is yours. Routes are carefully planned so you don’t miss any of Costa Rica’s highlights, while accommodations are booked in advance to ensure the perfect balance between adventure and comfort. An individual journey offers ultimate flexibility combined with the security of a well-organised itinerary.

National Parks

Costa Rica is renowned for its impressive national parks, which cover no less than 25% of the country’s total land area. Corcovado National Park in the south is considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, where you may spot tapirs, jaguar tracks and several species of monkeys. In Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast, you can witness sea turtles nesting from July to October—an unforgettable experience. Carara National Park forms a transition zone between dry and rainforest ecosystems, resulting in a unique mix of wildlife. The compact Manuel Antonio National Park combines lush jungle with pristine white beaches, making it perfect for travellers seeking both nature and relaxation.

Flora and Fauna

Costa Rica is home to more than 5% of all plant and animal species on Earth—an astonishing diversity for such a small country. In the rainforests, you may spot colourful frogs like the red-eyed tree frog and hummingbirds darting among the dense vegetation. With a bit of luck, you’ll see sloths slowly moving through the trees or encounter a group of howler monkeys announcing the day with their powerful calls. Bird lovers will be delighted by more than 850 bird species, including iconic toucans and the rare quetzal with its striking tail. Orchids, bromeliads and heliconias create a vibrant jungle landscape that can be admired during scenic walks.

San José

The capital city San José forms the vibrant heart of Costa Rica and is usually your first introduction to the country. Amid modern buildings, you’ll find architectural gems such as the National Theatre, a stunning neoclassical building reflecting the country’s rich coffee heritage. The Gold Museum and the Jade Museum house impressive collections of pre-Columbian artefacts. The central market is a sensory experience where you can soak up the local atmosphere among colourful stalls filled with exotic fruits, spices and traditional Costa Rican souvenirs. San José also boasts excellent restaurants where you can enjoy the traditional casado, the perfect culinary introduction to Costa Rican cuisine.

Pura Vida

More than just a greeting, “Pura Vida” is the essence of Costa Rican life. This philosophy of “pure life” reflects the relaxed and positive attitude of the locals, known as Ticos. During your journey through Costa Rica, you’ll hear the phrase everywhere—as a greeting, a thank-you or simply a way of saying that everything is going well. The Pura Vida mindset is evident in the warm hospitality of the people, who show genuine interest in visitors. It also reflects Costa Rica’s deep connection with nature and its pioneering role in sustainable tourism. Let yourself be immersed in this refreshing way of life and take a little piece of Pura Vida home with you.

Questions About Costa Rica

Wondering about the best time to travel to Costa Rica? The dry season from December to April is ideal, but even during the green season, rainfall usually comes in short, refreshing showers, while you benefit from lower prices and lush landscapes. For a road trip through Costa Rica, we recommend at least two weeks to explore the diverse regions at a relaxed pace. The cost of living is higher than in other Central American countries, but the quality and sustainability more than make up for it. The local currency is the colón, although US dollars are widely accepted. Costa Rica is 8 hours behind Belgium, meaning you’re just waking up there while we’re already enjoying lunch back home.