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Costa Rider Campervan: Your Ticket to the Ultimate Costa Rica Road Trip

  • Writer: Aurélise Leroux
    Aurélise Leroux
  • 2 days ago
  • 7 min read

If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the open road, exploring volcanoes, jungles, and pristine beaches—all while carrying your home on wheels—then Costa Rica is the perfect place for a campervan adventure. And one company stands out for making this dream possible: Costa Rider Campervan.


With flexible options ranging from campervans to 4x4 rentals in Costa Rica with rooftop tents, Costa Rider makes it easy to travel with comfort and freedom. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple chasing surf breaks, or a family seeking a unique way to explore, their vehicles allow you to live the Pura Vida lifestyle on your own terms.


In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes Costa Rider special, what to expect from a campervan rental in Costa Rica, the best places for camping, and insider tips to make your road trip unforgettable.


Costa Rider Campervan

Why Choose Costa Rider Campervan?


There are several campervan companies in Costa Rica, but Costa Rider has built a reputation for being traveler-friendly, adventurous, and reliable.

Here’s why they stand out:


  • Variety of Vehicles – From classic campervans to rugged 4x4 rentals with rooftop tents and even car roof tent rentals, they have something for every type of traveler.

  • Fully Equipped – Each vehicle comes with everything you need, including a comfortable bed, kitchen setup, utensils, fridge, camping chairs, and optional add-ons such as WiFi or surf racks.

  • Adventure-Ready – Many destinations in Costa Rica are best reached with a sturdy vehicle. Costa Rider’s fleet is designed for exactly that, letting you venture off the beaten path.

  • Eco-Friendly Travel – By combining transportation and accommodation, you reduce your carbon footprint and minimize the need for hotel stays.

  • Affordable Freedom – Prices are competitive, especially when you consider that you’re covering both transportation and lodging in one.


Campervan Options with Costa Rider


Costa Rider offers several types of rentals so you can pick the one that suits your style of adventure:


  1. Classic Campervans – Comfortable, compact, and perfect for couples or solo travelers who want everything in one vehicle.

  2. 4x4 Rental Costa Rica with Rooftop Tent – Ideal for those who want to camp in remote areas or on the beach, with the added advantage of going off-road.

  3. Car Roof Tent Rental – A budget-friendly option for those who already prefer a smaller vehicle and want to sleep outdoors under the stars.


No matter which option you choose, you’ll be set up for the road trip of a lifetime.



Where Can You Camp in Costa Rica?


One of the best aspects of choosing a van rental in Costa Rica is that you can wake up anywhere you like.


Still, safety and comfort are important, so here are some of the best spots for camping in Costa Rica:

  • Playa Grande (Guanacaste) – A beautiful surf beach with laid-back vibes.

  • Santa Teresa & Mal País – A surfer’s paradise where beachfront camping is popular.

  • La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano – Camp near hot springs and the impressive Arenal Volcano.

  • Monteverde Cloud Forest – Wake up surrounded by misty forests and a diverse array of wildlife.

  • Dominical & Uvita (South Pacific) – Jungle-meets-beach camping near Marino Ballena National Park.

  • Puerto Viejo (Caribbean Coast) – Relax with reggae beats, wildlife, and Caribbean waters.

  • Osa Peninsula – The ultimate wilderness experience, close to Corcovado National Park.



The Costa Rica Road Trip Experience


Taking a Costa Rica road trip in a campervan is a unique style of travel.


Here’s what you can expect:

  • Flexibility – Change your itinerary on the go. Stay longer in places you love.

  • Immersion in Nature – Spot monkeys from your campervan, fall asleep to the sound of waves, and watch the sunrise over the mountains.

  • Connection – Share campgrounds with fellow travelers, swap stories, and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle.

  • Adventure – Reach hidden beaches, mountain viewpoints, and waterfalls that aren’t possible with traditional tours.


Insider Tips for Campervan Travel with Costa Rider


  1. Download iOverlander – This app helps you find safe campgrounds, parking spots, and useful traveler tips.

  2. Plan for Driving Times – Distances in Costa Rica may seem short on the map, but roads are winding and travel can take longer than expected.

  3. Avoid Driving at Night – Not only is it safer, but you’ll also avoid missing out on the scenery.

  4. Pack Light – Space is cozy in a campervan, so bring versatile clothing and only the essentials.

  5. Stay Connected with WiFi – Costa Rider offers a WiFi box rental, and with our special deal, you get it at half price ($5/day) when you enter the code "From Pura Vida Traveling" in the notes section while booking.


Suggested Campervan Itineraries in Costa Rica


Not sure where to go? Here are three sample Costa Rica road trip itineraries to inspire your journey with Costa Rider Campervan:


1. The Surf & Sun Route (Pacific Coast)

  • San José → Jacó → Santa Teresa → Nosara → Tamarindo → Playa Grande → Liberia. Perfect for beach lovers and surfers.


2. The Volcano & Jungle Adventure

  • San José → La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano) → Monteverde → Manuel Antonio → Dominical → Uvita → San José. A mix of rainforest hikes, hot springs, and wildlife.


3. The Caribbean Explorer

  • San José → Cahuita → Puerto Viejo → Manzanillo → Turrialba → San José. For those who love culture, Caribbean beaches, and wildlife spotting.


Costa Rider Campervan sunset

Why a 4x4 Rental in Costa Rica is a Good Idea


While a standard campervan works for most main roads, some of Costa Rica’s best spots are off the beaten path.


Having a 4x4 rental in Costa Rica with a rooftop tent lets you:

  • Reach hidden surf breaks and remote beaches.

  • Access mountain lodges and rural areas.

  • Camp in places with rough terrain without worry.


If your dream road trip involves adventure and flexibility, this option is worth considering.


The Costa Rider Advantage


Choosing Costa Rider Campervan isn’t just about renting a vehicle—it’s about joining a community of travelers who love the open road.


Their service is highly rated for:

  • Reliability – Well-maintained vehicles.

  • Support – A helpful team is available for advice and troubleshooting.

  • Customization – Add-ons like WiFi, surf racks, and more.

  • Great Value – Affordable prices that combine transportation and accommodation.


Final Thoughts: Hit the road with Costa Rider Campervan


A trip to Costa Rica is already an adventure—but traveling in a campervan takes it to a whole new level. With Costa Rider Campervan, you’re not just booking transportation, you’re booking freedom: the freedom to explore at your own pace, sleep under the stars, and embrace Costa Rica’s wild beauty.


Whether you choose a campervan, a 4x4 rental in Costa Rica, or a car roof tent rental, you’ll be equipped for an unforgettable road trip. Don’t forget to use the code From Pura Vida Traveling when booking to get your WiFi box at half price.


So pack light, plan your route, and get ready to live the Pura Vida lifestyle with Costa Rider Campervan. Your ultimate Costa Rica road trip awaits!



Frequently Asked Questions


How much does a campervan rental in Costa Rica cost with Costa Rider?

Prices vary by season and type of vehicle, but expect around $70–$120 per night for campervans, and $90–$150 for 4x4s with rooftop tents.

Can I pick up and drop off the campervan at different locations?

Costa Rider offers flexible pickup and drop-off options. Check availability when booking.

 Do I need an international driver’s license?

A valid driver’s license from your home country is sufficient for rentals of up to 90 days.

What if I need internet during my trip?

Costa Rider offers a portable WiFi box. And if you book with our code "From Pura Vida Traveling", you’ll get it for just $ 5 per day.

Is wild camping allowed in Costa Rica?

It’s possible in some areas, but it’s safer and more comfortable to use official campgrounds or eco-lodges that allow campervans.

What documents do I need to rent a campervan?

When picking up your vehicle, you’ll need three things:

  • Your passport

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country (an international license is not required)

  • A bank card for deposit and payment

That’s it—you’ll be ready to hit the road!

Where can I park overnight in Costa Rica?

One of the best parts of a Costa Rica road trip is the freedom to park almost anywhere. You’ll find plenty of scenic parking areas near beaches, volcanoes, and in small towns. For more comfort, you can also stay at official campgrounds across the country for a small fee.

💡 Pro tip: Download the iOverlander app to find campsites, safe overnight parking, and hidden gems recommended by other travelers.

When and how should I make a reservation?

You can book directly through our website or by contacting us. To confirm your booking, a 20% deposit of the total rental price is required. The balance (80%) is paid when you pick up your campervan, either by credit card or cash (US dollars or Costa Rican colones).


Since campervan rentals are in high demand—especially during the dry season—we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your dates.

Is Costa Rica safe for campervan travel?

Yes! Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America, with a low crime rate and a welcoming culture. To give you extra peace of mind, our vans are equipped with:

  • Closed storage for valuables

  • Tinted windows for privacy

  • A built-in safe for passports and important documents

Our vans are also common models in Costa Rica, helping you blend in naturally. Plus, if you prefer, you can leave extra luggage securely stored at our office.

How much is the security deposit?

An $800 security deposit is required at pick-up. This amount is not charged, only placed on hold (frozen) on your credit or debit card. The deposit is released when you return the vehicle in the same condition.


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