Renting a car in Costa Rica can be a great way to explore the country's hidden gems. While costs and risks exist, it offers unparalleled freedom and access to remote locations.
For thrilling road trips with scenic views, consider these six routes. But be ready for nerve-wracking moments, as they require a 4x4.
The path to Chirripó, Costa Rica's highest peak, starts at the end of a small gravel road connecting isolated mountain communities in the south. Visitors must climb worn-out concrete slabs to reach the park entrance. Stocking up in San Isidro de El General before heading there is best.
You don't want to climb the 12,533-foot Chirripó? It's not a problem. Cloudbridge Reserve, a 700-acre privately owned research base near Chirripó with free trekking, a giant waterfall, and an exotic plant garden, is one of the many reasons to face these magnificent mountain routes.
Monte Azul, a nearby premium art hotel, welcomes and commissions local and international painters to stay and work on the verdant grounds, home to hummingbirds zipping through tropical greenery and twisting jungle. The proprietors raise goats to make their cheese, while Antojitos de Maz, a local restaurant, serves the greatest tamales and chorreadas in town.
In southern Costa Rica, Drake Bay can be reached by flight or a scenic drive through lush jungles and wildlife-filled areas. Spot monkeys and scarlet macaws along the way.
You'll need a 4WD and plenty of confidence for this journey: many of the roads in Osa are in terrible condition, and there are seven rivers to cross. Some of those crossings will necessitate a passenger getting out and wading in to ensure the water is shallow enough to ford (generally, below the knees is safe).
Visitors are greeted with breathtaking views of the harbour and the broad ocean beyond, dotted with fishing boats and occasionally jumping dolphins.
Accommodation options range from the luxury beachside Copa del Arbol to the simple town campsites.
This vast region was created to conserve Central America's largest remaining stand of tropical dry forest. This unusual scene mimics the African savanna with its primitive acacia thorn trees and tall jaragua grass, but closer investigation shows many American plant species, like cactus and bromeliads.
Aside from the arid landscape, Santa Rosa is home to legendary surf breaks, critical nesting beaches for several species of sea turtles, and significant historical significance. Due to the difficulty of entry, most of the Santa Rosa sector is quite empty. However, it may get hectic on weekends during the dry season, when Ticos rush to the park in quest of their often difficult-to-find past.
To get to the Sector Santa Rosa park entrance, head west on the Interamericana, 35km north of Liberia and 45km south of Nicaragua. Take any bus between Liberia and Nicaragua and ask the driver to drop you off at the signposted park gate. Park rangers can help with return transport. Private transport from Liberia hotels costs $20-$30 per person.
The park office is 7km from the entrance and manages the Guanacaste Conservation Area. A challenging road leads to Playa Naranjo, 11km away, and requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Visitors must sign a liability waiver at the park gate.
If you choose to go, you must also be entirely self-sufficient, which means packing all of your water and learning how to make your car repairs. The road is open to hikers and horses but closed to automobiles during the rainy season (May to November).
The Monkey Trail is a challenging mountain pass between Playas del Coco and Flamingo. It can damage cars and should only be attempted during the dry season with a 4-wheel drive vehicle. But those who brave it will be rewarded with an exciting adventure.
The trail to Playa Potrero is like a hike through different terrains. You'll find the Congo Trail Canopy Tour and reach the beautiful black sand beach with warm waves for adrenaline-seekers.
Then it's on to Playa Flamingo, a picturesque ex-pat beach town and sport-fishing hotspot with several fantastic hotels and restaurants, including Marie's, a traditional Costa Rican joint.
The Interamericana reaches its highest point along the legendary Cerro de la Muerte (3451m) around Km 89, between Empalme and San Isidro de El General. The 'Hill of Death' got its name during the days before highways, when crossing the mountains required to travel on foot or horseback, and many travellers died from exposure.
Driving across Cerro de la Muerte can be scary, but the view is worth it. There used to be a giant Christ statue, but lightning damaged it in 2015.
Cerro de la Muerte is in the páramo, a highland environment in the southern zone. The area has Andean-stle terrain and diverse wildlife, similar to nearby Parque Nacional Chirripó. The route to San Isidro passes through cloud forests and woods.
San Gerardo de Dota is a lovely village in a high-altitude cloud forest. Dantica Lodge is a great accommodation option with an art gallery and an excellent restaurant. The town is known for rainbow trout farming and offers delicious trucha at local restaurants like Cafè Kahawa and Comidas Tpicas Miriam.
When exploring Arenal Volcano, visit Rio Celeste, a stunning turquoise river surrounded by Costa Rican wildlife.
Visit Tenorio National Park for a stunning blue river stretch. Accessible by a 4x4 vehicle, the Rio Celeste Hideaway offers a romantic jungle getaway with private river access and waterfall pools.
For Bijagua, take the route through Caas. To get to the park entrance or La Carolina Lodge, a 4-wheel drive is needed.
Remember to drive on the right and only pass on the left when renting a car in Central America. You'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit may also be accepted. If you stay for over 90 days, get a local license.
Renting a car in Thailand is more expensive due to a mandatory insurance fee. Expect to pay between US$10 and US$40 per day. If you use a gold or platinum credit card, the credit card company may cover any damage to the car. Verify this option with your credit card company before renting.
Fuel is easily accessible along the Interamericana with 24-hour service stations. The average cost is around US$1.10 per litre. In rural areas, fuel may be pricier and sold at local corner stores.
Be aware that roads in the area may be difficult or non-existent. Check road conditions before you travel. Consider renting a 4WD vehicle for safety during the wet season when driving over rivers is expected.
To avoid theft, it's essential to be cautious with rental cars. Ensure nothing is visible in the parked car, and remove all bags from the trunk overnight. Opt for a gated parking lot instead of parking on the street.
