Costa Rica tour
Eco Explorer XXL

from 2940

21 days - Includes accomodation, Tortuguero mini-circuit and rental car

21 Days of Costa Rica’s Finest Natural Wonders and Coastal Gems

Step into the wonders of Costa Rica with the 21-day Eco Explorer XXL self-drive, a journey through pristine nature, paradise beaches, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Explore the mysterious canals of Tortuguero, discover the iconic Arenal Volcano, and be enchanted by the cloud forests of Monteverde. The Caribbean coast is also part of the itinerary, with its unique flora, fauna, and atmosphere.

Visit eco-parks like Sarapiquí and Rincón de la Vieja, where volcanic landscapes meet lush forests. After Rincón, head to charming Samara, with its golden beaches and relaxed Pacific vibe. End your trip in Uvita or Dominical, at the foot of Marino Ballena National Park. Here you’ll find mangroves, coral reefs, whales, and dolphins, plus the chance to explore wild Corcovado and the crystal-clear waters around Isla del Caño.

This extensive self-drive gives you the freedom to experience Costa Rica in all its diversity – from cloud forests and volcanoes to tropical beaches and vibrant coral reefs. The ultimate journey through one of the world’s greenest destinations.

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Highlights of this tour

The freedom of a rental car

Discover Costa Rica at your own pace with the freedom of a rental car. Stop where you like: hidden waterfalls, local eateries or scenic viewpoints. No fixed schedules, just pure flexibility. Every day becomes a personal adventure, tailored to your rhythm and filled with unforgettable moments.

Optimal Support

Our concierge service is ready with advice, bookings and insider tips. You set the pace, we take care of the rest. Travel worry-free and make the most of your Costa Rica trip – effortlessly, flexibly and completely tailored to you.

From Caribbean Coast to Pacific Coast, full of nature and adventure

This itinerary lets you experience an impressive part of Costa Rica, with highlights on both coasts. From the canals of Tortuguero and the colorful reefs of Cahuita to volcanoes, cloud forests, and paradise beaches, every region surprises. Enjoy Samara and explore Marino Ballena, with the possibility to visit Corcovado and Isla del Caño. A perfect mix of natural beauty, beaches, and wildlife.

Day-to-day program

Presidente Hotel 3* (Standard)
Evergreen Lodge 3* (Standard)
Azania Bungalows 3* (Standard)
La Quinta de Sarapiqui 3* (Standard)
Arenal Montechiari 3* (Standard)
Cañon de la Vieja Lodge 3* (Standard)
Locanda Samara Beach 3* (Standaard)
Cala Lodge 3* (Standard)
Villas Rio Mar 3* (Standaard)
Presidente Hotel 3* (Standard)
Travel Documents
  • Travellers with Belgian nationality (including babies and children) need a machine-readable passport with at least two blank pages, valid for at least 6 months upon return.

  • All passengers who travel to and /or via the U.S. must apply for an electronic travel authorization at least 72 hours prior to departure. The ESTA procedure must be requested via the official website link https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

  • Travellers with a non-Belgian nationality and / or travellers travelling on a foreign passport are invited to spontaneously report this matter to the Connections travel consultant and shall contact their respective embassy (s) or Consulate (ate) to obtain the latest updates concerning all current travel requirements and documents.

Insurances

Have a safe and carefree trip: travel fully insured with our Protections travel insurance! Our Protections insurance policies offer various formulas in order to offer you the widest possible cover (with even a fly-on-time, natural catastrophes and epidemics) for both single journeys or for the entire year. We guarantee you the best protection at the best price.

Tailored travel

The tours in our brochures are just a few examples of travel itineraries possible. Our trips can be tailored to suit your specific needs. If you want to book a specific destination or combine it with a mini-tour then we will gladly make you a tailor-made offer. For a personalised day-by-day program please contact our destination experts.

Would you like to travel in a group; with your entire family, friends or colleagues? (min. 10 people required). Put our know-how to the test and send us your details and wishes. We will gladly turn the blueprints of your trip into a detailed quote and a lasting memory for you to cherish. Contact our Connections’ Group Service by e-mail at groups@connections.be or by telephone on +32 (0)2 550 01 65. We would love to hear from you.

Health

No mandatory vaccinations. To verify the latest updates on health requirements , please surf to https://www.itg.be

Time zones

-7h (winter) / -8h (summer)

Payments methods

The most convenient method of payment is by credit card but cash euros and dollars in small amount come in handy. Euros can be easily exchanged.

Climate

Pleasant subtropical climate with micro climates which imply that weather changes are quick and unforeseen. Along the coastline you may expect warm and tropical weather, the central plateau is cooler, in the mountains it can get chilly. Rain season stretches from May to November. High season: November - April.

Please request a price quote for a personalized quotation.
The mentioned as from price is per person sharing based on double occupancy.

Travel period
  • January 10, 2026 - April 30, 2026 from € 3220

  • May 01, 2026 - June 30, 2026 from € 2940

  • July 01, 2026 - August 31, 2026 from € 3095

  • September 01, 2026 - October, 2026 from € 2965

Prices not valid during the weeks of Christmas/New Year, Easter & local events/festivities

What's included?
  • 18 nights accommodation with breakfast in the listed hotels or equivalent

  • 17-day rental of an SUV 2WD Economy (Geely Coolray) with full insurance and Wi-Fi

  • 2 nights full board in Tortuguero (from lunch day 2 to lunch day 4)

  • Your private airport to hotel transfer on Day 1

  • Briefing by an English-speaking guide

  • 3-day stay in Tortuguero, including transfers and 2 group visits, English-speaking guide, entrance fees

  • On-site concierge service throughout the trip

    Once on site, the concierge is available daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. to help you with any questions you may have: what to do, where to eat or other tips. They are available via WhatsApp and speak English!

Not included
  • International flights

  • Expenses related to the rental vehicle such as petrol, parking fees, ferry,...

  • Meals not mentioned and drinks

  • Excursions (entrance fees & guide) except in Tortuguero

  • Personal expenses

  • Tips

  • Any other services not mentioned

Good to know
  • Type of vehicle: SUV 2WD Economy (Geely Coolray or similar): 4x2, automatic, air conditioning, radio, 2-3 persons (2-3 suitcases)

A tailor-made quote?

Wish a detailed tailor-made quote? We gladly assist you with your travel plans, thus prepare your ideal tailor-made trip and calculate a detailed price proposal in no time. No hidden costs and entirely to your liking.

Visit our travel shops

Need more info, assistance to tailor your trip or the latest tips by our experienced Travel Designers? Pop in at one of our travel shops or make an appointment now. We will be delighted to set aside time for your travel plans.

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Over 100 Travel Designers
all over Belgium are eager to assist you

Year after year Connections sends its Travel Designers to all corners of the world in order to be able to advise you even better when mapping out your trip.

No destination is too foreign or far. Find out who they are here and feel free to contact them!

Why choose Connections?

Because we are travellers, just like you. Always looking for exciting experiences, fascinating encounters and new horizons. Because we are 100% Belgian and can assist you in your own language. Because we make it our personal mission to lift your travels beyond your wildest imagination. Because life is more intense when you travel, really travel!

More about Connections

The twinkle in the eye

Do not expect conformity from us. We are always looking for those extra ingredients that make your trip truly special. We swear by intense experiences.

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