- Cycle along the stunning coastal highway with incredible Pacific views and beaches
- Ride through ever-changing tropical scenery, alongside coffee farms, volcanoes, banana plantations and rainforest
- Hike in Manuel Antonio National Park
- Search for wildlife in the waterways of Tortuguero National Park

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride
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- Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride
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Reviews
Add your own reviewCosta Rica Cycling
I chose Costa Rica because of it’s wildlife. I was not disappointed, in fact my expectations were surpassed. I enjoy cycling, hence chose the cycling trip.
Most Inspirational Moment
There is no doubt that the various and varied sightings of birds and animals was what inspired me the most.
Thoughts on Group Leader
He was knowledgeable and caring. My only criticism was his lack of punctual departures. It was slightly annoying to get up and breakfast early to then wait 15 or 20 minutes after the designated departure time.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The trip notes on the web site are not completely accurate. For example, Day 11 we did not visit a banana packing facility. The trip notes need more detail in how long the bus transfers are, e.g. Day 10 the transfer to the Caribbean coast is long which is not noted in the notes. The heat and humidity can be very stressful on your body, particularly on the Pacific side at the coast. Listen to your body and ease back if you feel you are beginning to suffer from heat stress. Think about booking your own flights and extending your time in Costa Rica as it is a wonderful country to visit.
Suggestions
I recommend this tour as a great way to see Costa Rica.
An unforgettable experience
A truly wonderful experience of Costa Rica, led by the fantastic Roberto! This trip covers so much of the country, from the Pacific Coast to the Caribbean Coast and everything in between. The cycling distances are manageable, even for an amateur such as myself, and the hotels are all of a good standard. Whilst the tour is focused on cycling, the activities around the rides mean that you get to see things you would not necessarily notice on the bikes, such as the array of incredible wildlife you would normally only see on nature documentaries. I would do the trip all over again if I could!
Most Inspirational Moment
Swimming in the Caribbean Sea - our tour leader factored this into one of the afternoons and the whole group loved it!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Roberto is an asset to Exodus! Nothing was too much for him and he went above and beyond to ensure that each person had a memorable trip. I hope to keep in touch with him and visit him on another trip to Costa Rica in the near future.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pack washing detergent as not all of the hotels have laundry facilities, everywhere accepts credit and debit cards so there is no need to carry cash, pack padded cycling shorts as you'll need them and take tea bags with you as they're not always available in the hotels.
Costa Rica Cycle
We have just returned from an excellent holiday in Costa Rica. It exceeded our expectations. The country is beautiful and the variety of wildlife is stunning. We cycled 325 miles averaging 30 miles a day. The first few days is on quite busy roads but you get used to that. Later in the trip we were on quieter roads and enjoyed being off the tourist trail. Each day had special interest whether it was a national park walk, boat ride or a visit to a coffee plantation.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing the variety of animals and birds-especially the sloths! From a bike you see and hear so much more than in a vehicle.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader Roberto was well organised, had a good sense of humour and obviously loves his country. He gave us daily information in the form of laminated sheets with the day's gradients for the cycle as well as clear descriptions of the route using a map. The stopping points were indicated and he was good at anticipating our questions. Every day he made a great little video of our activities which went on the group shared WhatsApp. He was patient and courteous at all times which is not easy with a group of this size. Roberto cycled with the group and always made sure we were aware of any hazards along the route. His English is excellent.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It was hotter and more humid than we expected so take a few changes of cycling gear as washing did not dry by the next morning.
Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride, Jan 2023
A smooth running and extremely enjoyable trip that covered a lot of miles in the company of a lovely group.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Roberto was excellent at communicating with the group in a clear, amiable and professional manner which, together with his attention to safety, gave everybody (I think!) a high level of confidence in his guidance.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be ruthless in deciding what to take, if only because you will be re-packing your bag every day!
Simply amazing
Everyone said Costa Rica is amazing. It is. And our guide, Roberto, made it even more amazing. He shared his love for Costa Rica and made sure everyone on our trip had an amazing time. Costa Rica is beautiful… pura vida. This trip encompasses the people, the countryside, the wildlife… and some great biking. Boat trips, tours of national parks, swimming in the Caribbean, lovely accommodation, great food… and the best coffee ever. We loved it. Probably our best bike tour ever. And we were lucky to have a great group. Thank you everyone. And special thanks to Roberto, Walter and Luis.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Best leader evet
Wonderful Trip
After reading other reviews i had high expectations which were not just met but exceeded on this wonderful trip. The real highlight for me was the stunning range of landscapes along with such fascinating and colourful flora and fauna. I travelled with an excellent group who all seemed to get on so well and who all had that determination and drive to succeed and enjoy this holiday to the fullest possible extent. The cycling is excellent for a “Moderate” trip. It is a busy schedule with 12 consecutive days, usually up early to avoid the worst of the heat and the possible rain showers in the late afternoon. There are some tough climbs but well worth the effort and there’s always the bus to get on when needed. The mileage is ideal and although it may not look too far in the trip notes, there is the heat (well over 30C). I can’t praise our guide Roberto enough along with his team of Walter and Luis. They guided, supported and encouraged us superbly, providing us with excellent information and wonderful refreshments of the finest tasting fresh fruit and snacks at regular intervals. The hotels are all fine, in excellent locations, although a few needing a little attention to repair and maintenance issues. The food is very good throughout. Breakfasts generally fairly basic but some excellent lunches and evening meals in local restaurants and cafes. I left with some wonderful memories of a beautiful country, lovely people and a desire to return some day. We extended our stay in Tamorindo at Cala Luna hotel which was excellent and a hugely enjoyable few days of R & R after the cycling.
Most Inspirational Moment
Cycling the final 11 miles through beautiful countryside reflecting on just how good this trip had been. I had a real sense of satisfaction and achievement of completing the cycling, tinged with a little regret that we were now, sadly, reaching the end of this memorable trip.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Outstanding! I've been on a number of Exodus trips and generally found the guides to be of a very high standard but Roberto is up there with the very best. He kept us all informed and his support and guidance was always excellent. He ensured we all had anything we needed and had great systems for ensuring we were always focused on simply enjoying our trip.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be aware January is very hot, although the cycling is managed accordingly. Bring plenty of sun cream, bug spray and keep hydrated.
Suggestions
I can't recommend this trip highly enough. Costa Rica is a beautiful country with a great variety of landscapes, flora and fauna. There is a phrase you will see everywhere - "Pura Vida". It translates as "pure life" but is actually much more than just phrase - it's a way of life. If you're at all tempted by this trip, just go for it and experience Pura Vida for yourself.
Pura Vida! Thinking about it? Book it!
Costa Rica has stunning scenery. The itinerary covers a wide variety of beautiful and diverse landscapes : coastal – Pacific and Caribbean, mountainous (the bus takes you up the big hills so don’t worry), plantations – pineapple, banana, coffee), rain forest. As well as visiting some of the main tourist highlights eg Manuel Antonia NP, the route also includes some less touristy places. I loved cycling through the small, rural communities. Costa Rica is well known for its flora and fauna. This trip doesn’t disappoint in seeing exotic, colourful plants and a range of animals I’ve never seen in the wild, including sloths. At times it feels as if Costa Rica is one giant botanical garden. Eating lunch in local Sodas (family cafes) ,recommended by our guide, Roberto, gave a very authentic Costa Rican experience. The national dish of rice and beans is ubiquitous, but there’s much more on the culinary agenda. We love seafood and there was ample opportunity to eat delicious ceviche, locally caught giant shrimps and fresh fish. Luis, our driver, provided organic fruit at regular intervals during the cycling day. I have never tasted pineapple quite like this – so juicy and sweet! Costa Ricans are generally very friendly and welcoming. Tourism is very important to their economy and you get the feeling they really want you to have an enjoyable experience.
Most Inspirational Moment
There were so many great moments. Cycling through rural communities in the middle of the country, enjoying the scenery and exchanging "hola" with the locals felt really good.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Roberto is an excellent leader. He is warm, friendly, fun and very efficient. His briefings are very clear - he uses WhatsApp to communicate details of the day on the evening before the cycling and then verbally explains things each morning before you set off . Each day he put an elevation plot for the route on the side of the bus. This has planned stops marked. I loved this as I knew where I'd have to put a bit of hard work into the pedalling. Everything went very smoothly but this is because he has everything so well organised and anticipates your needs in advance of you realising. Nothing was too much trouble. He has excellent knowledge of the country and imparts this is an interesting way. He's a real ambassador for Costa Rica. Gracias, Roberto!
Advice for Potential Travellers
You'll get hot at times cycling so will need to do some laundry: After 1 week there are laundry facilities at the hotel. Use this - they charge by the kg , not per item. It's good value. Take a plug for the sink as there aren't any in most hotels Don't attempt to wash clothes in a hotel which hasn't got air conditioning, it won't dry overnight (NB most hotels do have air conditioning)
Suggestions
Absolutely one of the best cycling holidays I've been on. I really can't recommend it enough.
Tremendous Cycling
Fabulous holiday, great cycling, great group of people and brilliant Costa Rican crew who looked after us very well, Ricardo, Walter and Luis.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing the most beautiful birds at Las Cruces.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Ricardo was excellent, looked after everyone well and went out of his way if we needed anything.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Prepare for the cycling which can feel harder in the heat.
Stunning colourful country - Flora and fauna and fantastic cycling flat and hilly
I would echo the comments that the standout highlight of this trip is seeing the beautiful rural landscape. There is so much colour in the birds and plants. They are wonderfully seen from the bike but also the boat rides were superb The food was never bad. I would recommend salsa caribena fish and prawns. You will get bored of rice and beans for breakfast but small price to pay for enjoying this trip! Some of the lodges are quite basic but it’s fine. Many don’t have a hairdryer so if that’s important to you, bring one I found the pattern of cycling really good. Often after a tough hill day you get a good flat day to stretch out your legs. Some of the hills are definitely more than moderate, but you challenge yourself and if you really can’t do it you can get in the bus I recommend a larger day rucksack and a little one. Because there are occasions you are asked to do an evening and next morning without your suitcase Don’t bother bringing any fancy clothes, all very casual I loved the trip, the people, the guides. Go for it
Most Inspirational Moment
Making it up the toughest hill section?! Also loved the boat trips
Thoughts on Group Leader
Funny, experienced, very knowledgeable Great shame that he isn't doing subsequent ones for a while. He is a contractor and they are giving the trips to a perm. We met him because he came with the replacement bus. Seems fine but not so fun
Advice for Potential Travellers
Bring lots of cycle gear, you get very sweaty Bring full range of medical pills
Verdant Country with stunning flora & fauna - brilliantly viewed from both On and Off the Bike
As with all Exodus cycle trips the cycling provides the foundation for a trip led by an expert guide and back-up team, in which you sample the best cycling terrain, food and drink and highlights of a foreign country. A group of strangers come together, bond remarkably quickly in this case, and leave two weeks later as friends. Costa Rica Coat to Coast was no exception.
The highlights of Costa Rica are undoubtedly its flora and fauna. The estuary boat trip (Day 2), Manual Antonio NP (Day 3), ferry across Golfe Dulce plus Las Cruces Botanical Garden (Day 6) , and finally the fabulous Tortuguero NP (Day 11 & 12) are all must-see locations. Throw in the beautiful Central Highlands (Days 7-9), plus the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, and you have all the elements for a terrific two week trip though six of Costa Rica’s seven provinces.
Most Inspirational Moment
I'm no Attenborough yet was frankly in awe of the fantastic range, colour, sound and scale of the flora and fauna, and at such close quarters too. The designated highlights live up to their billing but is it often smaller moments that shine. Examples include a stop for fresh coconut at Playa Hermosa, walks along the beach on both coasts, a swim and beer near Puerto Viejo, the team riding formation and being overtaken by a local wearing flip flops, the serenity of the gardens by the ruined church where locals shared a Sunday picnic, & the bonding of the group - on and off the bike aided by beer, red wine and the occasional mojito. If I had to pick just one, it would be stopping mid ride in the Central Highlands, seeking a spot of shade sitting at a bus stop, and taking time to soak in the stunning views on both sides of the ridge. Picture postcard stuff. Wonderful.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Robert Aguilar was an excellent Leader in the best tradition of Exodus Tour Guides. He was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, an excellent communicator, strong rider, and responsive & flexible to traveller requests and requirements. He was ably assisted by Mechanic Paul and Driver Luiz. Paul rode strongly at the front making a good but not furious speed which kept the faster riders safely in check but not frustrated by pace. Mechanical matters were few but dealt with with aplomb. Luiz was the archetypal driver - silent but quietly effective - always on the right place at the right time with everything done. Altogether a superb team and tribute to both Costa Rica and Exodus.
Advice for Potential Travellers
1. Whilst there are climbs, largely in the Central Highlands, the cycling is not overly difficult and heat & humidity more of an issue than the terrain. You don't notice it whilst riding but certainly do when you stop. Regular sunscreen and fluids a must. 2. My wife and I wore arm screens as sun protection and these were such a big hit that we lent our spare ones to our fellow riders. A buff/snood can also be handy. 3. I tried my brand new SPD-cleat cycling sandals on this trip and there were a revelation - highly recommended. 4. Take a light rain top for the occasional (heavy though not cold) shower. 5. Food is plentiful and good quality, and you do develop a taste for rice with beans in varying permutations. Fish good and some excellent steak also. Fruit plentiful - pineapple, watermelon, papaya, banana & mango. 6. You can drink the water in most places and in the few where you cannot, bottled water is available/provided. In the alternative, Chilean red wine or the local ("Imperial") beer will do. 7. There are a couple of laundry opportunities mid-trip so resist the temptation to pack too much kit - both on and off bike. 8. You don't need any local currency (colones) as US Dollars in cash (though not GBP) plus credit cards suffice everywhere.
Suggestions
I spent much off Week 2 chatting to Roberto about the Nicaragua/Costa Rica/ Panama trip, the hopefully re-launched new Guatemala/Honduras/El Salvador trip and the in-plan alternative Colombia trip. I have a feeling my wife and I will be returning to this part of the world.
Start
Finish
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Saturday Saturday
01 Apr 2023 01 Apr 2023
Friday Saturday
14 Apr 2023 15 Apr 2023
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
08 Jul 2023 08 Jul 2023
Friday Saturday
21 Jul 2023 22 Jul 2023
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09 Sep 2023 09 Sep 2023
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22 Sep 2023 23 Sep 2023
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14 Oct 2023 14 Oct 2023
Friday Saturday
27 Oct 2023 28 Oct 2023
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28 Oct 2023 28 Oct 2023
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10 Nov 2023 11 Nov 2023
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04 Nov 2023 04 Nov 2023
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17 Nov 2023 18 Nov 2023
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18 Nov 2023 18 Nov 2023
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01 Dec 2023 02 Dec 2023
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02 Dec 2023 02 Dec 2023
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15 Dec 2023 16 Dec 2023
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16 Dec 2023 16 Dec 2023
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29 Dec 2023 30 Dec 2023
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06 Jan 2024 06 Jan 2024
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19 Jan 2024 20 Jan 2024
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20 Jan 2024 20 Jan 2024
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02 Feb 2024 03 Feb 2024
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27 Jan 2024 27 Jan 2024
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09 Feb 2024 10 Feb 2024
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03 Feb 2024 03 Feb 2024
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16 Feb 2024 17 Feb 2024
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10 Feb 2024 10 Feb 2024
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23 Feb 2024 24 Feb 2024
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24 Feb 2024 24 Feb 2024
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08 Mar 2024 09 Mar 2024
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02 Mar 2024 02 Mar 2024
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15 Mar 2024 16 Mar 2024
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30 Mar 2024 30 Mar 2024
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12 Apr 2024 13 Apr 2024
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06 Jul 2024 06 Jul 2024
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19 Jul 2024 20 Jul 2024
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10 Aug 2024 10 Aug 2024
Friday Saturday
23 Aug 2024 24 Aug 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
12 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
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25 Oct 2024 26 Oct 2024
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26 Oct 2024 26 Oct 2024
Friday Saturday
08 Nov 2024 09 Nov 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
02 Nov 2024 02 Nov 2024
Friday Saturday
15 Nov 2024 16 Nov 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
16 Nov 2024 16 Nov 2024
Friday Saturday
29 Nov 2024 30 Nov 2024
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
14 Dec 2024 14 Dec 2024
Friday Saturday
27 Dec 2024 28 Dec 2024
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View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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