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You sound like and expert on Costa Rica. We are leaving July 13 and are renting a car in San Jose and driving to Manuel Antonio for 7 nights at the Tulemar Bungelows. We want to go on a day trip to Aernal. Is that too much driving for one day? Thank You Rena

Hi,

Well, I'm not Scott, but he is often on trips and can't always read this board regularly.

However, although I am just planning my trip to CR, I have read on this board that the ride from MA to Arenal is about 5 hours. So I'd say, "yes" this is too much driving in one day.

Karen

Why don't you go directly to Arenal after arriving in SJ. It's only 3 hours from there. I'd suggest an overniter and then travel on to MA. I'll be in CR tomorrow for the summer at our place in Tamarindo and plan to take 2 different groups of guests visiting us to the volcano and we will definately stay over nite. Worth it.
Marilynn

Hi Marilynn,

I will be in Tamarindo and Playa Hermosa in late July and want to take a trip to Arenal. Can you tell me how long of a drive it is? And can you do a day trip or recommend overnight? Thank you for your help.

JRtarrant I personally think the drive is a bit long and would not recommend trying Arenal as a day trip. Also the driving is not casual highway as you might find in the US, rather it is a lot tougher on the body and mind.

For a point of reference. 1 hour driving in Costa Rica is similar to backing up your car down a US highway for 20 minutes. It is hard to equate the driving differences between Costa Rica and the US.

marilynn's suggestion of going to Arenal is a better choice. Spend a night or 2 and then head to Manuel Antonio after a good nights sleep. Depending on the time you arrive you may be able to go straight to Arenal from the airport. However, I would not suggest trying this if you arrive later in the afternoon. Try not to drive long distances at night if possible.

ewesthoff I offer you the same advise. I wouldn't recommend it as a day trip. You will enjoy yourself more if you plan to spend a night. Maybe you could drive to Arenal on your way back to San Jose or from San Jose to Tamarindo (approx 3-4 hours).

Have Fun!

Scott