Embark on an unforgettable journey across Costa Rica, traversing from the vibrant Caribbean shores to the sun-drenched Pacific beaches. This 10-day itinerary offers the perfect blend of urban culture in San Jose, the laid-back reggae rhythms of Puerto Viejo, the majestic volcanic landscapes of Arenal, and the world-class surf breaks of the Pacific coast.
Discover the unique biodiversity and distinct cultural flavors that define each coastline. Whether you are seeking wildlife encounters in lush national parks or looking to relax on pristine sands, this cross-country adventure captures the very best of Costa Rica's natural beauty and adventurous spirit.
San Jose
This tour From the Caribbean to The Pacific begins in San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, which is brimming with rich history and culture. It has a hip urban vibe and an array of restaurants and bars that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Despite all these buzzing metropolis offers, travelers often overlook it because it can seem hectic and intimidating. The main attraction for tourists visiting San Jose is the museums. If you only have a limited time, we recommend the National Museum and Pre-Columbian Gold Museum.
Puerto Viejo
The Caribbean coast has been under the radar for quite a while, partially due to the difficulty of getting there, but new road infrastructure means accessing this coast has become a bit easier. Here, you will find no big resorts or chain hotels, which is why the Caribbean is so charming. Puerto Viejo is located on the southern Caribbean side of Costa Rica, often referred to as “the other Costa Rica.” The culture of the Caribbean side is different from the Pacific side, with a definite Caribbean vibe. During the day, Puerto Viejo is a mellow, relatively quiet coastal town, but by night a great transformation occurs: Puerto Viejo is well known for its happening nightlife. The Rasta vibrations, the Caribbean sea breeze cutting through the humid heat, reggae music, and cheap cold beers make for a fantastic combination. Let yourself loose in Puerto Viejo by experiencing the vibrant nightlife. The Caribbean has its take on traditional Costa Rican food. The smells and flavors, such as coconut, ginger, curry, allspice, cinnamon, and chili peppers, pair perfectly with the palm tree-lined beaches, crystal turquoise waters, and beautiful rainforests. The people are warm, friendly, and peaceful, helping you feel relaxed wherever you stay. The Caribbean coastline may not have as many national parks as The pacific coast, but the few that exist are spectacular. Though you can find some species of wildlife on both coasts, many only make their home along the Caribbean coast. Four different sea turtle species nest on the beaches of the Tortuguero National Park, and the Cahuita National Park has some of the best coral reefs in the country for snorkeling. The sloth sanctuary Tree of Life Wildlife Rescue Center and the Jaguar Rescue Center are also on the Caribbean coast.
Arenal
Without a doubt, the most popular and well-recognized of Costa Rica’s volcanos is Arenal. The Arenal Volcano is a symmetrical cone-shaped volcano that dominates the fertile landscape of Arenal Volcano National Park. Until recently, it was the country’s most active volcano, averaging 41 eruptions per day. Although the Arenal Volcano is currently resting, the region offers an abundance of exciting adventures. While you cannot hike up the volcano, we recommend hiking through Arenal Volcano National Park. Arenal also offers fantastic day trips, including The Hanging bridges Tour in Arenal or a trip to La Fortuna waterfall. Bring a bathing suit, and you can enjoy one of the most refreshing experiences in Costa Rica, a soak in the Tabacon Hot Springs.
Liberia
The Pacific coast of Costa Rica is more developed than the Caribbean coast, so dozens of fantastic beach towns line the way, including Samara, Tamarindo, Montezuma, Nosara, Dominical, Santa Teresa, Uvita, Quepos, and Drake Bay. The Pacific coast is home to more than ten national parks and many other reserves, wildlife refuges, tropical dry forests, rainforests, mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs. These parks offer great opportunities for some unique wildlife encounters. For example, howler, white-faced capuchin and spider monkey sightings are shared inside and outside the parks and reserves, as humpback whale sightings migrate to Costa Rica throughout the year. The Pacific coast is also home to some world-class and beginner-friendly surfing breaks. Tamarindo, Samara, and Jaco are excellent choices for first-timers and intermediate surfers, with multiple surf schools, camps, instructors, and shops.
Experience both coastlines of Cost Rica on this magnificent From The Caribbean To The pacific Tour of Costa Rica with Va Expeditions, for the experience of a lifetime! Book here.
