Costa Rica in Depth

16 Day Costa Rica Experience Self Drive
16 Day Costa Rica Experience Self Drive
This comprehensive itinerary takes in all the highlights of Costa Rica and is designed for travellers who wish to experience the amazing natural diversity of this quite beautiful country which has both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, wetlands and rainforests, volcanoes and valleys and hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles and insects as well as rich flora. You have the freedom of Self Drive but all of the expert guiding (where applicable) at each lodge. You will not be disappointed.
Highlights
- 100s of species of tropical birds and other wildlife
- Multiple habitats and eco-systems
- Stay in eco-lodges in tropical surroundings
- Visit Caribbean, central and Pacific regions
What's Included
- All breakfasts, plus other meals where shown in itinerary
- Transfers as indicated
- Tours and excursions where shown in itinerary
- Local taxes
- Vehicle Hire
So much to experience



































Our popularitinerary Suggestions
All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable
Hotel Bougainvillea
Turrialba
Cerro Silencio
Tortuguero National Park
Mawamba Park
Sarapiqui
Guided birdwatching tour in Sapapiqui
Casa Luna Hotel
Arenal Hanging Bridges
Palo Verde National Park
At leisure in the park.
Santa Juana Lodge
Manuel Antonio Park
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge
San Jose International Airport
A view from Above
Accommodation Options
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge is the perfect jungle retreat for ecotourist visitors wishing to get off the beaten track and experience the sounds and sights of a tropical rain forest in a tranquil, undisturbed atmosphere. The lodge is surrounded by the untouched wilderness of the Piedras Blancas National Park, where guests can enjoy activities such as bird watching, horse riding, hiking as well as kayak and boat trips in nearby Golfo Dulce.
Mawamba Lodge, Tortuguero
Mawamba Lodge is a 15 acre beach front property situated on a sand strip between the Tortuguero Canals and the Caribbean Ocean. It is surrounded by lush gardens, pristine beaches and the amazing Tortuguero National Park with its abundance of wildlife, this really is a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Bougainvillea, San Jose
Upon arrival at this beautiful hotel set within 10 acres of lush tropical gardens home to a variety of plants and bird life it will be hard to believe that you are just a 10 minute drive from downtown San Jose and the international airport.
Offering a true feeling of Costa Rican lifestyle and hospitality the hotel is set amidst the coffee farms of Santo Domingo de Heredia and is famous for the exceptional personal service offered to its guests.
Large bedrooms with private balconies offering beautiful views, a superb outdoor pool, tennis courts, a fantastic restaurant, a welcoming cocktail bar and a wide variety of excursions on offer make this intimate hotel an even better choice for your stay in the Costa Rican capital.
Hotel Casa Luna, Arenal
Located at the base of the stunning Arenal Volcano this beautiful eco-friendly lodge offers spectacular views and luxury accommodation in a lush tropical rain forest environment.
Surrounded by farmland and a beautiful creek the lodge has its own private rainforest trail for guests to explore at their leisure and a wide range of superb activities are on offer giving guests the chance to fully experience this remarkable area.
A magnificent swimming pool, a beautiful rustic-style restaurant and an indulgent spa add to the feeling of luxury here and with so much to see and do we're sure you will never want to leave this tropical paradise.
Rancho Naturalista, Turrialba
Known as one of Central America's finest birdwatching premises this tranquil lodge offers superb hospitality, stunning views of the smoking Turrialba volcano, delicious gourmet food and bright and airy lodgings.
Situated within its own private forest reserve in the Central Talamanca mountain range this beautiful lodge offers bird watchers and nature lovers alike a unique getaway where relaxation and being at one with nature is the order of the day.
Over 450 species of birds have been recorded here and many of these can be spotted by simply sitting out in the grounds of the lodge. Alternatively expert guides are on hand to take you through the private trails and if birding isn't your thing don't worry there will still be plenty of adventurous things for you to do here!
Santa Juana Lodge, Manuel Antonio
High on a hilltop above the Manuel Antonio national park and beautiful coastline you will find the Santa Juana Lodge. This mountain resort, immersed into the jungle, is a truly authentic Costa Rican experience.
If you are keen to explore the more rural areas of Naranjito and villages of Santa Juana, you will not be disappointed. The eco-lodge is an important part of the local community and is run in harmony with the people and land around it.
The accommodation here comprises split-level cabinas, crafted from sustainable, locally sourced wood. The beautiful constructions offer high vaulted ceilings, king size beds, comfortable lounge areas and kitchenettes. Screened sliding windows lead onto panoramic terraces with spectacular views over the ocean.
Selva Verde Lodge, Sarapiqui
A firm favourite among eco-travellers, Selva Verde has been championing sustainable tourism in the area for thirty years. This rustic lodge overlooks the Sarapiqui River and is just 2 hours from San Jose.
The naturalist owner/managers promote conservation throughout the area and provide environmental education to locals and visitors alike. Guests enjoy being immersed in the rainforest whilst knowing they are contributing to the conservation of this beautiful area.
The lodge is crafted of stilted wooden structures, linked by covered walkways. Each room has screened windows, comfortable beds and private bathroom. There is a deck with hammocks for you to relax and spot the varied species of birdlife enjoying the bird-feeders in the grounds.
Rancho Humo, Guanacaste
Nestled amongst 50,000 acres of protected nature conservancy wetlands this authentic luxury estancia is a nature and bird lover's paradise.
Situated along the impressive Tempisque River on the Nicoya Peninsula the ranch occupies a prime position inside the Palo Verde National Park where an abundance of wildlife thrives and roams freely, and where numerous ecosystems prosper such as mangrove, wetlands, dry tropical rainforest and a huge variety of flora and fauna.
Spend a day at the beautiful Palo Verde National Park, take a boat tour on the Bebedero River or visit the working cattle farm for an authentic ranch experience before returning to the luxuries of this high-end hotel for delicious meals and a refreshing dip in the swimming pool.
Too much to choose from? This is where we come in
Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Costa Rica adventure for you.

With countless travel experiences and an enduring hunger for adventure, Sheena knows exactly what’s needed to craft a holiday of a lifetime. Her experience and generosity of spirit are legendary and she’ll help you build an itinerary that will make all your dreams come true.

Simon’s deep passion for and first-hand knowledge of a vast range of destinations all over the world gives him the ideal skills to help you create a truly unforgettable wildlife inspired adventure to the most exciting places on the planet.

Mike has more than fifteen years hands-on experience in the industry, travelling to some of the most incredible wild places on the planet. His far-reaching knowledge and invaluable skills will ensure that your wildlife travel adventure is a dream come true.
Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?
Call us
0800 195 3385
Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
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callback
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Book a
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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Chat Now
Request a
callback
Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book a
Consultation