Off the beaten path in Costa Rica

San Jose

Day 1: Touchdown in San José

After a warm welcome at Juan Santamaría International Airport, you'll transfer to your accommodation in San José, Costa Rica's vibrant and atmospheric capital. In the evening, settle down and acquaint yourself with your surroundings, perhaps setting out in search of classic Costa Rican dishes with which to line your stomach - must-tries include gallo pinto (rice and beans) and casado (rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein).

San Jose - Sarapiqui

Day 2: Hit the road for Sarapiqui

This morning, pick up your rental car and get ready to kick-start the day's adventure. You'll make tracks for the town and river area of Sarapiqui, where you'll arrive by the afternoon - in time to savour local cuisine at a riverside restaurant offering traditional casados or arroz con pollo (rice with chicken). Suitably satiated, spend some time strolling along the riverbanks or exploring the town's quaint markets, before retreating to your accommodation for an overnight stay.

Sarapiqui - Tirimbina Rainforest - Sarapiqui

Day 3: Delight your senses in Sarapiqui

Fill today with outdoor fun and wonder, by opting to dive headfirst into the Tirimbina Rainforest Preserve; explore its trails and canopy bridges for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the heart of untouched nature. Try your luck at birdwatching, experience the thrill of Sarapiqui river rafting, and treat yourself to a chocolate or coffee tour showcasing local production methods. Come evening, delight in traditional Costa Rican chocolate desserts or enjoy a brew of locally-grown varieties of coffee, before tucking in for an overnight stay.

Sarapiqui - Turrialba

Day 4: Take a scenic drive to Turrialba

This morning, climb back into your rental car and set off for Turrialba, traversing a picturesque route across three provinces as you go. The changing landscapes are particularly magnetic, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the ride.

Arrive in Turrialba by evening, and dine on flavour-packed specialities such as Turrialba cheese paired with local fruits, before relaxing in your accommodation for an overnight stay.

Turrialba

Day 5: The many wonders of Turrialba

Today, you could choose to dive into the region's history with visits to archaeological sites, or perhaps partake in a coffee tour at Golden Bean, where you'll learn about how beans are farmed, harvested, milled and roasted to create a fantastically rich brew. If you're up for an adventure, hike the trails within Wildlife Refuge La Marta; there, you'll give your legs a good stretch and calm your mind as you spot resident wildlife and beautiful flora. Return to your accommodation in Turrialba afterwards, to relax ahead of an overnight stay.

Turrialba - San Gerardo de Dota

Day 6: Journey to San Gerardo de Dota

Back in your rental car, ascend through the Cordillera de Talamanca mountain range - throughout today's journey, stop at the Irazú Volcano and the province Cartago for historical insights into these stunning landmark destinations. By evening you'll reach San Gerardo de Dota, a small and sleepy farming community where you'll dine on local mountain trout or farm-fresh vegetable dishes before turning in for the night.

San Gerardo de Dota

Day 7: In search of the resplendent quetzal

It's time for a day of divine natural explorations! Wander through the misty cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, soaking in the serenity and listening out for the varied calls of the local birdlife. Join a guided birdwatching tour to seek out the resplendent quetzal, which is best spotted during nesting season between February and May. Stunningly bold and bright, the males show off a vibrant blue-and-green plumage, fiery red chest, and elegantly long tail - spotting one will certainly raise your spirits, whether or not you're an avid birdwatcher.

San Gerardo de Dota - Dominical

Day 8: Journey to the Pacific Coast

Back in your rental car, depart San Gerardo de Dota and begin your journey to Dominical on the Pacific Coast. Caressed by the sea breeze, kick back at informal beachside eateries and explore the local culinary specialities, from ceviche to fried plantains. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at your own pace, before an overnight stay.

Dominical - Uvita - Dominical

Day 9: A day steeped in Costa Rica's coastal charms

Another day of exploration is on the menu: prepare for an unforgettable hike along the stunning sands of Playa Hermosa - aptly-named as it's certainly one of the most scenic beaches you'll find in the area. The views out to sea from here are serene, while the rich tropical greenery that lines the beach adds to the overall sense of seclusion. Afterwards, venture into the heart of Uvita's Marino Ballena National Park to explore its rich biodiversity - as its name suggests, whale watching is a particular draw here. Once you've had your fill, return to your accommodation in Dominical for an overnight stay.

Dominical - Manuel Antonio

Day 10: The rugged rainforest of Manuel Antonio

Today offers another excellent itinerary for bird- and wildlife-lovers: in the morning, take a short drive along the coast to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you'll stand a chance of spotting the bright red, blue and yellow feathers of the scarlet macaw (Ara macao). Spend some time here losing yourself amidst the rugged rainforest, which edges out onto white sands and even encompasses colourful coral reefs.

Come evening, enjoy a scenic sunset with traditional Tico cocktails - a shot of Guaro Sour, perhaps, or a spicier Chiliguaro - before retreating to your accommodation in Manuel Antonio for an overnight stay.

Manuel Antonio - Carara National Park - Manuel Antonio

Day 11: A day at leisure on the Pacific Coast

With Manuel Antonio as your base, take the day to get yourself better acquainted with its beautiful sights and surroundings. Drive up along the coast to marvel at the diverse flora and fauna of Carara National Park on an energising hike, or perhaps enjoy a thrilling crocodile tour on the River Tarcoles. Alternatively, simply unwind on a tranquil and secluded beach along the Pacific Coast - however you choose to spend your time, complete immersion is always guaranteed.

Manuel Antonio - San Jose

Day 12: Return to city living in San José

This morning, relax for a while by the beach before starting your scenic return drive to San José - don't forget to make a few stops along the way to relish the breathtaking views. Arrive back into the capital, where you'll spend your final evening in Costa Rica. To make it truly memorable, soak up the vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, and marvel at the city's blend of architectural styles by night.

San Jose

Day 13: Farewell, Costa Rica!

Check out of your accommodation today, and prepare for your drive back to the airport, where you'll drop off your rental car and join your onward flight.