Getting to Costa Rica…

Getting to Costa Rica is easier than ever. Fly direct to Juan Santa Maria International Airport (SJO), just outside San José, with options from major American and European cities. Once you land, the real Costa Rican adventure begins as there are 3 ways to get down to La Zona Sur. The most popular option is to rent your own 4x4 car. Another option would be to arrange a Shuttle or Private Transfer and the last option is to take an internal flight.

Getting to Pura Vida Ecolodge

Driving & Independence

We highly recommend renting a 4x4 vehicle with Vamos Rent-a-Car to ensure maximum independence and access to all of Costa Rica's stunning scenery.

The Drive (SJO to the Lodge)

• Duration: The drive from San José takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the season (dry vs. rainy) and recent road improvements.

• Scenic Route: Travel via Jacó and Quepos. Enjoy views of coffee plantations and ranches, and pause near Carara National Park to safely view crocodiles.

• Lunch Stop: We suggest stopping for lunch and beachside dining in Dominical.

Final Stretch & Welcome

• The lodge is located shortly after Uvita (home of Parque Nacional Marino Ballena).

• Rendezvous: Once you reach the sleepy village of Coronado, our housekeeper, Juan Carlos, will meet you.

• Privacy: To maintain the retreat’s privacy, we are purposefully not signposted, so Juan Carlos will lead you up to the lodge in convoy (10-15mins)

Arrive, Unwind, and Re-wild.

After your journey to the wild Southern Pacific coast—a road trip through Costa Rica’s natural diversity—you’ll find refuge up at Pura Vida Ecolodge. Settle in, turn off, and embrace your first magical sunset. Grab a fresh coconut and sink into a hammock as you become a front-row spectator to nature: monkeys, toucans, macaws and coatis frequently visit the lodge and reserve.

flights from San Jose

Both Sansa Air & Costa Rica Green Airways have daily flights from San Jose to Quepos, Puerto Jimenez, and Drake Bay (80, 120 & 150 mins from Pura Vida Ecolodge). Flight times from San Jose are between 30-50 mins. If you choose to arrange an internal flight to one of La Zona Sur’s airports, you can then arrange a ‘meet & greet’ service with Vamos Rent-A-Car

*Tip: don’t forget your camera!

4x4 Car Hire

We recommend Vamos Rent-a-Car, a trusted, locally-owned 4x4 specialist. Mauricio and his team have been looking after our guests for years, providing personalized service with no hidden extras. NOTE: You will need a 4x4 (Not AWD).

✨ Exclusive Pura Vida Guest Benefits

• GPS/Wazephone & Complimentary Child Seat (Included)

• Ice-Box for beach day trips (Included)

• FURTHER 5% DISCOUNT when booking via our link

• They will Price Match any better deal you find elsewhere.

• Price guide: Jimmy 4x4 $50, Daihatsu Terios $60, Rav 4 $80, Fortuner $110 (prices per/day & vary seasonally).