Imagine cruising through cloud forests, along coastal highways, and past volcanoes—all without a drop of gas. Thanks to Costa Rica’s growing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and its bold national commitment to sustainability, a carbon-neutral road trip across this stunning country is not only possible—it’s inspiring, efficient, and unforgettable.

At Green Circle Experience, we’ve designed the ultimate 10-day EV itinerary that lets you explore responsibly without compromising comfort or adventure. This guide includes a curated route through some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and biodiverse regions, with daily mileage estimates, EV charging tips, and sustainable stays at eco-luxury lodges. Bonus: you can download the full itinerary as a printable PDF planner to take on the road.

So buckle up—it’s time to drive with purpose. 

How It Works: Carbon-Neutral Road Tripping in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is leading the way in Latin America when it comes to sustainable mobility. With its commitment to becoming carbon-neutral and a national grid powered by over 98% renewable energy, the country is perfectly suited for electric vehicle (EV) travel. A growing network of charging stations, eco-certified lodges, and short driving distances between major attractions makes it easier than ever to explore Costa Rica with zero emissions.

Where to Rent Your EV

Start your trip in San José, where several agencies now offer electric vehicle rentals—ranging from compact crossovers to 4WD options perfect for rural roads. Be sure to confirm the charger type (most use Type 2 or CCS Combo) and that the car comes with a mobile charging cable.

Charging Infrastructure

Public EV chargers are available at shopping centers, eco-lodges, fuel stations, and town centers across the country. Apps like PlugShare, ChargeHub, and ElectroMovilidad CR can help you find and filter stations along your route. Many eco-lodges also offer on-site or nearby charging for guests.

Tips for a Smooth Ride

• Plan for no more than 150 km per day to allow for scenic stops and a comfortable charge window.
• Top up at night whenever possible, even if you’re not low on battery.
• Bring a mobile charger for emergencies or remote lodges (standard 110V outlets work overnight for small top-ups).
• Avoid relying on fast chargers exclusively—they’re handy, but not always available in rural areas.

Traveling by EV in Costa Rica means less noise, less pollution, and more connection to the landscapes around you. And with Green Circle Experience, your route is already thoughtfully mapped—so you can focus on what really matters: the journey.

Day 1: Arrival in San José – Your Carbon-Neutral Adventure Begins

Route: Juan Santamaría International Airport → Hotel Grano de Oro, San José
Driving Distance: ~15 km
EV Charging: On-site at Hotel Grano de Oro

Welcome to Costa Rica! After you land at Juan Santamaría International Airport, a member of the Green Circle Experience team will greet you with your fully charged electric vehicle, ready for the road ahead. You’ll receive a quick orientation, your personalized digital roadbook, and tips on how to make the most of your zero-emissions journey.

Your first night is spent at the elegant and eco-conscious Hotel Grano de Oro, a Green Circle partner known for its historic charm, sustainable operations, and outstanding cuisine. Take this time to unwind from your flight, enjoy the hotel’s garden courtyard, or savor a gourmet dinner made with local ingredients.

Day 2: San José → Hacienda La Isla, Sarapiquí – Into the Rainforest

Route: San José → Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí
Driving Distance: ~110 km / 2.5 hours
EV Charging: On-site at Hacienda La Isla

After breakfast, leave the bustle of San José behind and drive north toward the lush lowlands of Sarapiquí, one of Costa Rica’s biodiversity hotspots. The journey winds through mountain foothills and rural villages, with opportunities for scenic photo stops or local fruit stands along the way.

Your destination is Hacienda La Isla, a colonial-style lodge set in a private rainforest reserve. Here, wildlife roams freely and the air is filled with birdsong. Walk the lodge’s private trails, explore the surrounding jungle, or book a night tour to discover frogs, sloths, and nocturnal wonders.

This peaceful, immersive setting is perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and a genuine connection to nature.

Day 3: Sarapiquí → Maquenque Eco-Lodge, Boca Tapada – Treehouse in the Canopy

Route: Sarapiquí → Boca Tapada
Driving Distance: ~90 km / 2 hours
EV Charging: On-site at Maquenque Eco-Lodge

Today, drive deeper into the northern wetlands to reach Maquenque Eco-Lodge, one of the most unique ecolodges in Costa Rica—and a Green Circle Experience favorite. Nestled within a private reserve bordering the Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge, this lodge is a haven for birds, amphibians, and peaceful jungle vibes.

You’ll stay in a treehouse suite, high above the forest floor. Watch toucans and howler monkeys pass through the canopy from your hammock, or join a canoe ride through the tranquil lagoons that surround the property.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything here: solar panels, reforestation projects, and support for local communities make your stay both meaningful and memorable.

Day 4: Boca Tapada → Tenorio Lodge, Bijagua – Volcanic Trails & Celestial Waters

Route: Maquenque Eco-Lodge → Tenorio Lodge, Bijagua
Driving Distance: ~120 km / 3 hours
EV Charging: On-site at Tenorio Lodge

After a peaceful morning in the treetops, unplug your EV and drive west toward the lush hills of Bijagua, a small mountain town nestled at the base of Tenorio Volcano National Park. This region is home to the Río Celeste, a striking turquoise-blue river and waterfall created by a rare volcanic mineral reaction.

Check into Tenorio Lodge, a Green Circle partner property offering panoramic volcano views, modern cabins, and a strong commitment to ecological practices. Spend your afternoon soaking in the surrounding natural beauty or exploring the lodge’s private trails.

Day 5: Explore Tenorio Volcano National Park – Blue Water, Green Trails

Route: Local driving only (to the park entrance and back)
Driving Distance: ~15 km
EV Charging: Top-up at Tenorio Lodge

Today is a full day to explore Tenorio Volcano National Park, home of the legendary Río Celeste Waterfall. Follow the well-marked trails through dense rainforest and past bubbling hot springs, bright blue rivers, and panoramic viewpoints. The main trail takes about 3 hours round-trip and is moderately challenging.

Return to the lodge in the afternoon to relax, read in the gardens, or enjoy a local dinner prepared with farm-fresh ingredients. Tenorio Lodge’s quiet setting makes it an ideal place to recharge body, mind, and vehicle.

Day 6: Bijagua → Monteverde – Into the Cloud Forest

Route: Tenorio Lodge → Monteverde Cloud Forest Lodge
Driving Distance: ~100 km / 3–4 hours (with one charging stop if needed)
EV Charging: On-site at Cloud Forest Lodge

Depart Bijagua and head south into one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landscapes: the Monteverde Cloud Forest. The drive takes you through rolling hills and past dairy farms and coffee plantations, with opportunities for scenic breaks along the way. Green Circle will recommend a reliable charging stop en route, if needed, to ensure a relaxed journey.

Your stay tonight is at Cloud Forest Lodge, a rustic-luxury ecolodge situated on a private reserve with direct access to forest trails and wildlife. The lodge has dedicated EV charging and cozy accommodations surrounded by misty trees and rich biodiversity.

Day 7: Monteverde – Explore the Cloud Forest

Route: Local driving only (Monteverde area)
Driving Distance: ~15–30 km depending on activities
EV Charging: Top-up at Cloud Forest Lodge

Spend the day discovering the mystical beauty of Monteverde, one of the world’s most celebrated cloud forests. Green Circle’s roadbook guides you to several nearby eco-experiences:

• Hike the trails of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve to spot quetzals, hummingbirds, and giant tree ferns.
• Visit a sustainable coffee or cheese farm, learning how locals harmonize with the highland climate.
• For a thrill, soar through the canopy on a zipline or walk across the famed hanging bridges.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local organic restaurant or join a guided night tour to witness nocturnal wildlife awaken.

Day 8: Monteverde → Golfito → Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge

Route: Monteverde → Golfito (drive) + boat to Playa Nicuesa
Driving Distance: ~210 km / 5 hours
EV Charging: Secure parking with charging station in Golfito

Today, you’ll make your way from the cool highlands to the lush southern coast. Green Circle provides a detailed route with one fast-charging stop along the Pacific highway and curated scenic breaks.

Once you arrive in Golfito, park your EV in a private, monitored lot with overnight charging. From there, board a boat that takes you across the Golfo Dulce to the remote and off-grid Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, surrounded by jungle and sea.

This is your ultimate unplug—no roads, no distractions, just nature.

Day 9: Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge – Jungle & Ocean Immersion

Route: No driving
Driving Distance: 0 km
EV Charging: EV remains plugged in at the marina

Today is yours to explore or simply relax. Wake to the sound of scarlet macaws, swim in the calm gulf waters, or join a guided kayak or rainforest hike. Playa Nicuesa offers:

• Oceanfront yoga sessions
• Guided nature tours with resident biologists
• Sustainable cooking or cacao-making workshops

This is your time to absorb the silence, biodiversity, and rhythm of life far from the road.

Day 10: Playa Nicuesa → San José – The Final Stretch

Route: Playa Nicuesa → Golfito (boat) → San José (drive)
Driving Distance: ~340 km / ~6.5 hours (can be split over 2 days)
EV Charging: Coordinated charging stop(s) along the route

After one last sunrise over the Golfo Dulce, take the boat back across the water to Golfito, where your fully charged EV is waiting. Today, you’ll make the journey back to San José by road, traveling along the scenic Pacific coast and through Costa Rica’s vibrant central valleys.

To ensure a smooth ride, Green Circle Experience pre-plans reliable fast-charging stops along the way. You’ll receive real-time charger availability via app and have our support team on hand should you need anything during the return.

If you have time, consider taking a relaxed pace and enjoying a scenic stop—perhaps a beach break in Dominical, a lunch stop in San Isidro, or a forest walk near Los Quetzales National Park.

Return your vehicle in San José and complete your journey knowing you’ve crossed Costa Rica with a light footprint and a full heart.

🎉 Congratulations—you’ve just completed a fully carbon-neutral road trip across Costa Rica with Green Circle Experience.

This 10-day road trip isn’t just a journey through Costa Rica’s most stunning landscapes—it’s a statement. With Green Circle Experience, you’ve proven that comfort, adventure, and sustainability can go hand in hand. From cloud forests to coastal jungles, every kilometer was powered by clean energy and conscious choices.