COSTA RICA 4x4 HOLIDAY  

Duration

8 days / ​​7 nights

Drive Grade

1-2

Drive / Rest day

5 / 2

Paved / Unpaved

60% / 40%

Distance

460 / 740 km

Experience the backroads and wonders of nature in beautiful Costa Rica. Pura vida!

     For good reason, we consider this tiny peaceful Central America country the jewel of the hemisphere. The statistics tell the story. Over 25% of Costa Rica is zealously protected National Parks and wildlife reserves. Imagine being serenaded through the night by howler monkeys, hearing and feeling the rumbling of the restless Arenal volcano. Over 900 species of birds, more than the USA and Canada combined, make this watchers paradise. 
This 4X4 KaravanADV event is a romantic adventure holiday, done with great style, ideal for couples and families. Can you envision a private custom family or group event? Contact us for details.

Dates and Pricing

Date 2026

COMING SOON

Two persons sharing a room:   TBD
One person solo in a vehicle with single occupancy room:  TBD
Third person in a vehicle:     inquire about special rate 
Date 2027

COMING SOON

Two persons sharing a vehicle and  a room:   TBD
One person solo in a vehicle with single occupancy room:  TBD
Third person in a vehicle:     inquire about special rate 

Tour Highlights

Itinerary

NO​TE

Itinerary, inclusions and amenities are subject to change based on availability at time of booking.

Day 1

Arrive Costa Rica.  Flying into the capital city of San Jose (SJO), you will be greeted by the KADV team and transferred to your resort in Alajuela in the Central Highlands overlooking San Jose. Expect a briefing and hospitality gathering to meet your staff and fellow adventurers. Your rental vehicles will be waiting, a seamless and time saving service.  

Day 2

Boca Tapada is our destination today, but first a diversion to Poas National Park where one of the world's largest active volcano craters can be viewed, should the forest clouds permit. Backroad 4WD driving through the Central Highlands will meander through coffee fincas, crossing streams and getting close to the wonders of nature 

Day 3

You will pick your way through back road cloud forests where tropical selvas team with wildlife. Your night of luxury glamping in Caño Negro will be memorable. A river excursion will be planned where crocodiles, monkeys, reptiles and colorful birdlife are assured to be witnessed. 

Day 4-5

Fortuna will be our first two-night stop. In the shadows of the rumbling volcano of Arenal, there will be time to break away for optional backroad explorations and a number of activities such as jungle ziplining or horseback riding. Want to relax? Thermal hot springs of Tabacon are nearby, a must for the complete Costa Rica experience.

Days 6-7

From Fortuna we transit across rolling green hills, the volcano Arenal in the rear-view mirror as we head to the Pacific coast and our stay in Samara on the Nicoya Peninsula. There will be river crossings on this day, the Prado Landcruiser well suited for the challenges of the back country. Beach time with our stay just steps away from the surf. Take advantage of the spa services, water sports or take out on your own to explore the peninsula.

Day 8

Boarding the ferry, we depart Nicoya and return by way of the Panamericana Highway, to San Jose. Depending on flight schedules we can facilitate your departure today or assist you in making arrangements to extend your stay in San Jose or the nearby Central Highlands that overlook the city.

Drive Details

Minimum participation

5 vehicles / 10persons

Maximum participation

7 vehicles / 14 persons

Longest day

114 miles /182 km

Shortest day

56 miles / 90 km

Starts

San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO)

Ends

San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO)

Climate

Costa Rica comprises tropical and subtropical climate zones. The rainy season begins gradually in May with highest intensity, July through October, fading in November. Temperatures will range from mid 70’s° in the highl​​​​ands, with coastal and lowland temperatures in the high 80’s°. The Green Season of May through June is considered an ideal time for travel.

TECHNICAL RATING
DISTANCE

460 miles / 740 km

PAVED / UNPAVED

60% paved / 40% unpaved

Included

  • Rental of Toyota Landcruiser Prado 150 with upgraded all terrain tires
  • Delivery of rental vehicles to your hotel. Seamless. No wasting your holiday time
  • Full comprehensive vehicle insurance (1,000 USD deductible)
  • Dinners on travel days, all breakfasts with occasional lunch
  • Exceptional accommodations with luxury glamping (double occupancy)
  • Multilingual experienced staff team
  • Arrival and departure airport transfers
  • Entrance to Poas Volcano National Park
  • River excursion Caño Negro nature reserve
  • Pre-our Information Booklet (digital)
  • Map package
  • Karavan ADV apparel gift
  • Where appropriate, luggage handling tips

Not included

  • International airfare to and from destination
  • Travel interruption and cancellation insurance STRONGLY RECOMMENDED
  • Emergency medical evacuation insurance MANDATORY
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Fuel
  • Tolls
  • Airport departure tax 29 USD
  • Staff gratuities
  • Fees for any special services
  • Any penalties due to infractions or driving violations
  • Any meals or inclusions not specified

APPLICATION TO RESERVE A BOOKING

With this application, you are soliciting to participate in a KaravanADV event. We will follow up to advise you of the status of the event and at that time, will request additional information and a deposit to confirm your booking.

FAQ 

Is this event suitable for couples?

Yes. By design KaravanADV has crafted The Costa Rica Adventure Holiday with elevated style when and where available. Muy romantico! Share this with your family, friends and loved ones!

How technical is the drive? 

Do not expect this to be a Camel Trophy styled event. The route will not be technical in nature, so according to the onX OffroadTechnical Rating System, we consider this to be rated as 1-2 well suited for novices or experienced drivers. Of course, we might stretch this a bit offering some optional routes that edge towards being more technical.

Is it safe?

There is a good reason Costa Rica has a vibrant ex-pat population. The country has no standing army, has a higher literacy rate than the USA and enjoys first world standards throughout. Travelers should undertake the usual precautions however Costa Rica is considered very safe.

Must we travel in a group?  

The advantages of traveling as a group are many. The KaravanADV team has a wealth of knowledge with strong naturalist backgrounds. In Costa Rica with its abundance of wildlife and stunning flora, each stop is a fascinating learning experience. And should there be a mechanical issue or emergency, you’ll appreciate the company of the staff. There are opportunities for optional explorations, and you can freely consult with the team.

Can we have a third person join us in our vehicle?

Yes. Of course. And even a fourth if you wish.  Please contact us about customized private tours just for you, your friends and family.

Is altitude an issue?

No. Altitudes along our route through the Central Highlands should not exceed 3,000 ft (915 meters)

Can you recommend emergency evacuation insurance?

Yes. We will provide several carriers for your review. We do urge you to undertake your own research, to find the right insurance for your needs. Evacuation insurance is mandatory on all KaravanADV tours and events.

Do I need any special shots?

There are no shot requirements. We feel it is good to be current on tetanus and diphtheria and hepatitis shots. Consult with your medical professionals.

Are visas required?

Citizens of the USA, Canada and the European Union do not require advance visas. Other nationalities should undertake their own research on the matter or call on KaravanADV for consultation. You will need a current passport.

Can KaravanADV create a special private tour for just me and my group?

Yes. Actually private customized tours are our specialty. We are in a position to satisfy your particular requests. For example travel dates, destinations, inclusions, style and special interests, can all be addressed to meet your needs. KaravanADV has a wealth of logistics experience and global resources. Start by filling out this simple Custom Private Tour Inquiry Form, and look for a speedy response. 

What is the Green Season in Costa Rica?

Many KaravanADV tour dates are in the spring months. May and June are referred to as the Costa Rica Green Season. It is when the occasional rains that signal the coming of the full rain season, bring the flora and fauna to life. From brown and dusty to fresh and vibrant greenery, even the “ “Ticos” ( a name referring to the people of Costa Rica) look forward to the seasonal change. Fewer tourists and rate advantages make it ideal.