Pura Van: The Comfortable Way to Road Trip Across Costa Rica
- Aurélise Leroux
- Sep 30
- 5 min read
There are many ways to explore Costa Rica—flying between cities, booking shuttle buses, or renting a car and staying at hotels. However, if you’re seeking a travel experience that combines adventure with comfort, Pura Van campervan rental in Costa Rica is the ideal choice.
With sleek, fully equipped vans that feel more like a mini home than just a vehicle, Pura Van has become a favorite for travelers who want to take a Costa Rica road trip without sacrificing convenience. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, digital nomads chasing both WiFi and waterfalls, or a small family wanting to see the country on your own terms, Pura Van offers the perfect setup.
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Pura Van unique, what you can expect from their campervans, the best routes for a Pura Van road trip, and why campervan travel is one of the best ways to experience Costa Rica.

Why Pura Van is Different?
When most people think of van rental in Costa Rica, they picture rugged 4x4s with rooftop tents and basic camping setups. Pura Van flips that idea on its head by creating modern, cozy, and stylish campervans that are easy to drive and incredibly comfortable.
Here’s what sets them apart:
Design & Comfort – Each Pura Van is thoughtfully built with high-quality interiors, a proper bed, storage space, and a kitchenette.
Ease of Use – Driving a Pura Van feels like driving a car, making it perfect for those who don’t want the stress of managing a large RV or complicated setup.
Turnkey Travel – You don’t need to bring extra gear—everything you need is already inside. Just pick up the van, hit the road, and start your adventure.
Reliability – Their fleet is well-maintained and regularly updated to ensure a smooth trip.
In short, Pura Van is for travelers who want freedom without the rough edges.
What’s Inside a Pura Van Campervan?
One of the highlights of traveling with Pura Van is the thoughtful design of their vehicles.
Here’s what you’ll find:
Comfortable Double Bed – With bedding and pillows included.
Kitchenette – Equipped with a gas stove, sink, fridge, and cooking utensils.
Storage – Smartly designed cabinets and compartments to keep your space organized.
Solar & Electricity Options – Stay powered up for charging devices.
Optional Add-Ons – Surf racks, extra camping gear, and more.
This setup makes it easy to cook meals, stay organized, and feel at home while on the road.
Why Choose Campervan Rental in Costa Rica with Pura Van?
Traveling in a campervan allows you to combine the best of camping in Costa Rica with the comforts of home.
With Pura Van, you’ll enjoy:
Flexibility – No rigid hotel bookings. If you fall in love with a beach, stay another night.
Cost Savings – By cooking your own meals and avoiding hotels, you stretch your travel budget further.
Closer to Nature – Wake up next to a volcano, jungle, or beach.
Safety & Comfort – Unlike backpacking or tent camping, you’ll always have a secure and comfortable place to sleep.
Extra Savings with Us: When booking through Pura Vida Traveling, you maximize these benefits even further by saving $10 on your rental and receiving a complimentary camping essentials package — everything you need for an unforgettable Costa Rica road trip.
Best Places for a Pura Van Road Trip
Pura Van vans are perfect for Costa Rica’s paved roads and popular tourist routes, but they’re also capable of handling some of the bumpier adventures.
Here are some recommended routes for your Costa Rica road trip:
1. Volcano & Hot Springs Loop
San José → La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano & hot springs) → Monteverde → Guanacaste beaches. Perfect for mixing relaxation and adventure.
2. Pacific Coast Paradise
San José → Jaco → Manuel Antonio → Dominical → Uvita → Ojochal. Great for beaches, surfing, and wildlife spotting.
3. Northern Adventure
Liberia → Rincón de la Vieja → Playa Hermosa → Tamarindo → Playa Grande. Ideal for travelers starting in Guanacaste.
4. The Caribbean Escape
San José → Cahuita → Puerto Viejo → Manzanillo.For those who want culture, jungle, and Caribbean vibes.
How Pura Van Compares to Other Options?
Travelers often ask: Should I choose a 4x4 rental in Costa Rica or a campervan like Pura Van?
Here’s the breakdown:
Pura Van – Best for comfort, couples, and travelers who want a cozy home-on-wheels with all the essentials built in.
4x4 with Rooftop Tent – Great for rugged adventures, surf trips to remote beaches, or travelers who don’t mind a more rustic setup.
Car Roof Tent Rental – Budget-friendly and fun for those who want camping flexibility without a full campervan.
If your style leans more toward comfort, convenience, and design, Pura Van is your best choice.
Camping in Costa Rica with Pura Van
While wild camping is possible in Costa Rica, it’s best to use established campgrounds for safety and amenities.
With Pura Van, you can easily park at:
Beachfront Campgrounds – Imagine waking up to waves in Santa Teresa or Dominical.
Eco-Lodges with Camping Areas – Some lodges allow campervans and offer access to bathrooms and showers.
National Park Areas – Certain parks have nearby campgrounds that welcome campervans.
Apps like iOverlander can help you find reliable places to stay overnight.

Tips for Traveling with Pura Van
Plan Driving Times – Roads can be slower than expected. A two-hour drive on the map may take three or more in reality.
Avoid Night Driving – For Safety and Better Visibility.
Stay Organized – Use the storage compartments to keep your van clutter-free.
Cook Simple Meals – Make the most of your kitchenette for easy breakfasts and dinners.
Mix Campgrounds & Hotels – For variety, you can always split your trip between van camping and boutique hotels.
The Pura Van Experience: What Travelers Say
Travelers often describe their Pura Van adventure as comfortable freedom. Instead of rushing from hotel to hotel, you get to slow down, explore more deeply, and enjoy spontaneous moments—like pulling over at a roadside fruit stand, or camping next to a secluded beach.
It’s this balance of comfort + flexibility that makes Pura Van such a special choice for van life in Costa Rica.
Final Thoughts: Pura Van for Your Costa Rica Road Trip
A Costa Rica road trip is one of the best ways to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, and with Pura Van, you’ll do it in style and comfort. Their vans give you the freedom to camp on a beach one night and wake up next to a volcano the next—all while having a cozy bed, kitchen, and storage with you everywhere you go.
And when you book with Pura Vida Traveling, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits: $10 off your rental and a free camping essentials package (blankets, towels, snorkeling gear, string solar lights, and a USB rechargeable anti-mosquito lamp). That’s extra comfort and savings, only available through us.
So grab your map, pack light, and get ready to live the Pura Vida lifestyle with Pura van. Your next big adventure starts the moment you hit the road.
Frequently Asked Questions :
How much does a Pura Van rental cost?
Expect around $90–$150 per night depending on the season and model. Remember, this includes your transportation and accommodation.
Is a Pura Van suitable for families?
Yes, small families can comfortably fit depending on the van model.
Do I need a 4x4 to travel in Costa Rica?
Not always. Many top destinations are accessible with Puravan’s campervans. If you want remote jungle routes, a 4x4 rental in Costa Rica might be better—but for most itineraries, Puravan works perfectly.
Can I rent a car roof tent instead of a full campervan?
Yes, other companies, like Costa Rider, offer car roof tent rentals, but Puravan focuses on full campervans designed for maximum comfort.
Where can I pick up my Pura Van?
Pick-up is usually available near San José, the capital and main international airport hub.
Is camping in Costa Rica safe?
Yes, as long as you stick to established camping spots. Many areas even have dedicated facilities for campervans.
















