Most of the roads in Costa Rica are paved and well maintained. You can reasonably expect to visit many beach towns and other locations with ease during your vacation.
There are some roads that are a little rougher, and require a versatile vehicle. The Monkey Trail is one of those roads.
This route is situation in the coastal area of Guanacaste. It passes through the mountains between Potrero and Playas del Coco. The Monkey Trail is a fun way to go between these two beaches.
A Shortcut, Sort Of
The Monkey Trail can save you a bit of time if you’re heading down the coast in Guanacaste, but only a little bit. If you’re staying in Playas del Coco, or at the Riu Hotel at Playa Matapalo, and going to Potrero or Flamingo, The Monkey Trail will be shorter.
If you’re heading to Tamarindo or farther, then the primary routes will be faster. This includes trips from the Liberia International Airport. You’ll take Route 21, which will take you through several small towns like Belen.
If you just landed in the Liberia Airport and you’re looking to get to your resort quickly to relax – Route 21 is probably the better option. Some resorts you may see are The Westin or Margaritaville in Playa Flamingo.
Pick up a pair of these awesome water shoes. I've been using them all over Costa Rica during my travels. They have vented soles so water drains right out the bottom! Great for going to the beach and walking through town, or exploring rivers.
Water Levels May Vary
The Monkey Trail does cross through a river at one point. This river can have fluctuations in the depth of the water. Not only that, but even if the water appears to be a similar level, the river bed depth can change and move. Drivers may cross the water along a certain path only to get stuck the next time as the high points have changed.
You’ll see lots of vehicles in Costa Rica with snorkels coming off the engine compartment – this allow the engine to continue pulling in air while the vehicle goes through water above the hood. We’ve only see a couple occasions where this would be necessary going across The Monkey Trail.
Most of the time, passenger cars can pass through the trickle of water. If you’re unsure about the depth, wait until some other seasoned drivers go through.
You also can’t expect there to be water in the river bed all the time. During the dry season, October to February, there isn’t much rain in Guanacaste. The river may be completely dry for these months.
If you show up to The Monkey Trail and it’s too deep, check out The Congo Trail. This bypasses the river which is right beside The Congo Trail on Google Maps. You’ll need to pay a small fee of about $5 or buy an equal amount of goods in their small store.
If you're heading out for an adventure, you're going to need some cold watch and snacks. Pick up a backpack cooler, which has ample room for what you'll need while you enjoy the beach. There is an added benefit of freeing up your hands to carry the fun stuff!
Scenic Views And Quick Driving
With the river out of the way, the remainder of The Monkey Trail is an amazing drive. You’ll be heading up and down the terrain, which will afford you some amazing valley views.
If you’re looking to take this route from Playas del Coco, click Here. You can also check out the very active Facebook Group which posts daily updates on the status of the river and other cautions for the route Here.
Check Out Playas del Coco
One of my favorite beach towns in Costa Rica is Playas del Coco. It’s always growing and home to lots of amenities and activities. It’s a very short 30 minute drive from the Liberia International Airport. You’ll find lots of options for accommodations at every budget, and many different styles of restaurants to enjoy.
While the beach in Playas del Coco is nice, there’s many renowned beaches very close. For example, a short drive south and you’ll find the black sand, calm water beach called Ocotal. This beach is great for relaxing and snorkeling.
Just to the north, you’ll find beaches like Playa Hermosa, Playa Penca and Playa Calzón de Pobre. These beaches are incredible, with Hermosa being the most busy. They are all a short distance from El Coco and a great place to stop during your tour of Costa Rica & Guanacaste.
Follow Us!
Be sure to Subscribe to our Youtube Channel, and leave a comment with your thoughts about this location or request a video in other cool destinations around Costa Rica.
Visit www.elcoco-properties.com for real estate opportunities in Playas del Coco and the surrounding area.
