Coastal vs Mountain Adventures: Choosing Your Campervan Route
Costa Rica is one of the few countries where you can watch the sunrise from misty mountains and end your day with your feet in the sand. For first-time or inexperienced van campers, this variety can make one big decision surprisingly difficult: Should you take a coastal route or a mountain route?
Both offer unforgettable experiences but each delivers its own vibe, challenges, and rewards. Here’s what to expect on the road and how to choose the perfect route for your adventure.
The Coastal Route: Sun, Sand, and Slow-Living
If you dream of warm breezes, beach towns, and golden sunsets over the Pacific, Costa Rica’s coastal roads are calling your name.
Why Choose a Coastal Campervan Trip?
1. Easy Driving & Relaxed Pace
Coastal highways especially along the Pacific tend to be flatter and easier to navigate, making them great for beginners. You’ll mostly follow the coastline, with long, smooth stretches and fewer steep climbs.
2. Endless Beach Stops
From Tamarindo and Nosara to Santa Teresa and Dominical, you’ll never run out of beaches to explore. Wake up steps from the ocean, cook breakfast under palm trees, and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
3. Surf, Snorkel, and Wildlife
Coastal routes offer water activities everywhere. Think sea turtles in Playa Grande, surfing in Jaco, and dolphins in the Golfo Dulce.
What to Expect on the Road
Hot, humid weather (especially on the Nicoya Peninsula)
Occasional dusty roads in the dry season
More campsites and van-friendly spots by the beach
Laid-back towns with great food and cafés
Best for: Slow travelers, beach lovers, surfers, digital nomads, sunset chasers.
The Mountain Route: Cool Air, Waterfalls & Cloud Forest Magic
If you prefer misty mornings, dramatic landscapes, and cooler temperatures, Costa Rica’s mountains deliver a completely different kind of beauty.
Why Choose a Mountain Campervan Trip?
1. Breathtaking Views Everywhere
Winding roads take you through cloud forests, volcanoes, and valleys. A stop can easily turn into a lookout point with a view you’ll never forget.
2. Cooler Temperatures
Mountain travel is perfect if you want a break from humidity. Destinations like Monteverde or Cerro de la Muerte feel refreshing year-round.
3. Nature & Adventure Activities
Ziplining, hanging bridges, coffee farm visits, waterfalls, and wildlife like quetzals all await in higher elevations.
What to Expect on the Road
Steep climbs, sharp curves, and changing weather
Cooler nights (great for cozy campervan sleep!)
Narrow rural roads in some regions
Fewer crowds compared to beach towns
Best for: Adventure seekers, hikers, nature photographers, cool-weather lovers.
Coastal vs Mountain: Which Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:
Choose the Coastal Route if you want…
Easy driving conditions
Beach hopping
Water sports
Warm weather and sunsets
Choose the Mountain Route if you want…
Nature immersion
Cooler temperatures
Adventure activities
Unique wildlife experiences
Can You Do Both in One Trip? Absolutely.
One of the best things about Costa Rica is how close everything is. You can start your journey in the mountains of Monteverde, then head down to the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula, all in a single week.
A campervan makes this seamless. No hotels. No repacking. No stress. Just follow the road and stop wherever you fall in love with the view.
Tips for First-Time Campervan Travelers in Costa Rica
Start with shorter driving days (2–3 hours)
Download offline maps—signal can disappear in the mountains
Check the weather, especially in rainy season
Arrive before dark to choose a safe, flat overnight spot
Bring layers—mountains can get chilly at night
Your Costa Rican adventure should feel effortless and that’s exactly what we offer.
👉 Book your van today at Campervans Costa Rica and explore the country at your own pace.
