Hello,
I am staying in Tamarindo for a few days in July...around the 15th. Two questions:
1. Could you recommend the best driving route? I am particularly concerned about washed out or dirt/gravel roads, so would invest more time to stay on paved roads, if possible, and
2. Am I going to see any sunshine...hopefully. This is the only time I can go.
Would greatly appreciate your input. I have been searching the web, but it is particularly difficult to figure out the quality of the roads. Why 160 (or 161) looks terrifying in rainy weather. Saw that. Really want to stick to paved roads.
Thanks so much...I really appreciate input.
Coble
2
mrmoto
It is a easy enough drive, though figure at least 5.5 to 6 hours. It is paved the entire way. The fastest and best route would be from SJO (Alajuela) or San Jose downtown, to the Caldera/Toll to Puntarenas, then you would head up the CA1 to Liberia, this section is divided highway now, though areas still under construction possibly. Once in Liberia, you head to Belen and then to Tamarindo.
The other option is to take CA1 to the turn off at Rt#18, and take that across the Freindship Bridge to Rt#21, and take that up to Santa Cruz, then the back way in on Rt#52, though this section is not surfaced, mainly hard gravel and a tad bumpy...
With limited time, consider just flying to Tamarindo, both Sansa and Nature Air have 6-8 flights day in each direction...
In July expect afternoon showers, more in the mountains than in Guanacaste area, which is mainly ranch country. Do build in time for delays in rainy season when going to SJ, especially on the CA1....
3
Coble
Thank you for the great information! I was wondering about hwy 18, and also 152. I am in CR for 17 days, but my trip is mapped out according to "dental tourism" appointments and I have rented an SUV for the whole trip. Flying at this point would not fit into my budget. I am also going to Manuel Antonio. Then I have 3 days left at the end of the trip to go somewhere...any recommendations? Jaw Mariott in Tamarindo/ Parador in Manuel Antonio. Both really nice. Need to figure out something for the last 3 days.
Thanks again for your kind response.
4
mrmoto
Well I don't know where else you are going to be, but there is a whole lot more to CR National Parks than Manual Antonio, which is very touristy and crowded (closed Mondays)...small, and best avoided IMO.
There is really no need to stay in International Chain Hotels, when you have so many family owned, charming, rustic, hand built, intimate and more eco friendly than a Marriott.
Have you looked at Tenerio, Cano Negro, Rincon, since you have car?
What about the Osa, or the caribe side?
If you are going to CR fro dental tourism, to save money, don't stop at the doctor, stay in local places and its far cheaper than resorts...unless you like that kind of thing...
5
Coble
I just combed through all of your recommendations...exciting! Thank you! I like Rincon a lot, but they all look amazing. Time to re-work it all out. I really appreciate your advice!
Hoping to return to CR again in Feb for 1 month.
6
Thorn Tree
This topic has been automatically locked due to inactivity. Email community@lonelyplanet.com if you would like to add to this topic and we'll unlock it for you.
Pro tip
Lonely Planet
trusted partner
trusted partner