Van Life Costa Rica: What It’s Really Like Traveling with a 1973 VW Van (Told by Me, Daisy!)
- Daisy
- May 1
- 4 min read
Hola, adventurers! I’m Daisy—your 1973 Volkswagen van, cruising the jungles, mountains, and coastlines of Costa Rica with curious travelers just like you. I’ve got four wheels, a whole lot of heart, and a serious love for freedom.
If you're dreaming about van life in Costa Rica, considering a Volkswagen van rental, or just want a taste of that tropical road trip magic, hop in. I’ll show you what it’s really like to explore this incredible country with a classic camper van like me.
🌴 From California to Costa Rica: My Retro Rebirth
Back in the ‘70s, I was living that chill California life—peace signs, surfboards, and the sound of Fleetwood Mac on the radio. But like many vintage souls, I eventually needed a little TLC.
That’s when my human found me—rusty but still full of potential—and brought me to Costa Rica. After a full restoration (yes, I got new tires and curtains), I was ready for a second life. Now I take people on unforgettable adventures across one of the most beautiful countries on Earth... Costa Rica!
🏞️ What It’s Like Living Van Life in Costa Rica (Through My Windshield)
You wake up to the sound of howler monkeys. Steam rises from your morning coffee as the jungle hums around you. Maybe you’re parked under a palm tree in Santa Teresa or tucked into the cloud forest near Monteverde.
That’s everyday life with me.
Van life in Costa Rica is all about freedom. You’re not stuck with check-in times or tourist traps. Want to chase waterfalls? Hit every beach break along the coast? Sleep beside a volcano? Let’s go.
My cozy interior has everything you need:
A comfy bed (big enough for two)
A mini kitchen setup
Solar-powered lights and USB ports
Space for your surfboard, snacks, and sense of wonder
And if you’re wondering—yes, I get lots of compliments. People love a vintage VW. I might even make you insta-famous.
🚐 Real Talk: The Road Has Bumps (But That’s the Fun Part)
Look, I’m not a luxury SUV. I’m a 1973 Volkswagen van. I take things slow—and that’s kind of the point.
Here’s what to expect:
A few steep hills might need some teamwork
Wi-Fi? Not always. Jungle vibes? Always.
You’ll learn to follow the rhythm of the road, not your watch
But those little hiccups? They become the best stories. I’ve seen travelers laugh through tropical rainstorms, cook pasta on portable stoves in the dark, and make friends with curious locals while changing a tire.
Van life teaches you to let go and live in the moment.
🏖️ Where I Love to Roll: Top Spots for Camper Van Travelers
I’ve got a few favorite places that are practically made for van life. Trust me, I’ve got excellent taste in scenery:
🌊 Santa Teresa
Endless surf, dusty roads, and magical sunsets. Park under the palms and watch the beach turn gold.
🌋 La Fortuna
Camp beneath the Arenal Volcano and soak in jungle hot springs. Plus, there are sloths—actual sloths.
🌿 Monteverde
Cool air, cloud forests, and zip-lining through the treetops. Perfect break from the beach heat.
🏝️ Playa Conchal
Crushed seashells instead of sand, and water so clear you’ll think it’s a filter. It’s dreamy.
🐢 Nosara
A laid-back yoga-surf town where van life is part of the culture. Morning coffee, monkey chatter, and a quick surf? Yes, please.
🛠️ Practical Stuff You’re Probably Wondering About
Let’s talk logistics. I may be charming, but I’m also well-equipped:
🔌 Power & Charging
I’ve got an included power pack that you can keep charged to keep your phones and fans going. Unplugged doesn’t mean powerless. You can even ask for my solar panels for even more options.
🧺 Cooking
I have basic kitchen supplies along with a small gas camping stove—just add groceries! Gallo pinto and coffee at sunrise? You bet.
🚿 Showers & Bathrooms
Many campgrounds and hostels are van-life friendly, with showers, toilets, and even laundry. I even come with a roof mounted water tank for a quick rinse. You can stay fresh while staying free.
🐜 Bugs?
It’s the tropics, so yes, they exist. Get some citronella candles to help keep things comfy.
🛞 What If I Need Help?
My human is never far, and roadside help is part of the package. Plus, Costa Rica has an amazing network of mechanics who love working on classic vans like me.
❤️ Why You Should Travel Costa Rica in a Vintage VW Like Me
Here’s the thing—any rental car can take you from A to B. But I give you everything in between: the waving locals, the spontaneous beach stops, the music echoing out of my speakers as you roll through coffee farms.
When you travel with me, you’re choosing:
Slow travel
Authentic connections
Vintage charm
Unforgettable memories
I’ve watched travelers fall in love with Costa Rica, with each other, and even with themselves. There’s just something about the open road and open windows that opens hearts too.
📸 My Favorite Moments on the Road
Want to know what van life looks like from my headlights? Here are a few snapshots:
A honeymoon couple sipping wine under the stars in Uvita
A surfer catching their first wave in Playa Hermosa
A solo traveler journaling in the backseat while howler monkeys serenade the jungle
Friends playing guitar and dancing barefoot in a beach parking lot
These aren’t just vacations—they’re stories. And I’d love to help you write yours.
🛫 Ready to Hit the Road?
So… are you ready to ditch the resorts and travel free with me?
Let’s chase waterfalls. Let’s find secret beaches. Let’s get a little lost and a lot inspired. Whether it’s for a long weekend or a couple of weeks, I’m ready to roll whenever you are.
Book your Volkswagen van rental in Costa Rica today and come live the van life Costa Rica style—with a little help from me, your new best friend, Daisy.
Let's take the scenic route, with sunshine in our souls, and always stopping for roadside mangoes along the way!
DAISY
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