Costa Rica 
Classic car enthusiasts between dream beaches and high mountains
Tropics, jungles, volcanoes, waterfalls, the Pacific Ocean, impressive mountains, the vibrant metropolis of San José - Costa Rica has all this and much more to offer.
One of the most beautiful and progressive countries in Latin America.
Exploring this unique corner of the world in a classic car sounds like a long plan, thrills, palpitations and happiness.
Off you go on an adventure for an unusual, unforgettable experience on four wheels.
The following classic cars are available: Mercedes Benz SL, Porsche 911, Range Rover Classic 3-door.
“Pura Vida” - enjoy life - is the motto of the people of Costa Rica. A philosophy to which Ingo Bartsch and his wife Inga have also committed themselves. Almost 20 years ago, the classic car enthusiasts fulfilled their own personal dream and moved to Aserrí, a small town above San José. This is where the idea was born to present the beauty of their adopted country to people who appreciate the extraordinary - at the wheel of a classic car.
The road to Ingo and Inga Bartsch's estate climbs uphill and ends with a panoramic view of San José and the volcanoes beyond. Then the gate opens, revealing an enchanting tropical garden and the impressive Hacienda Equis made of wood and lava stone.
Around ten classic cars, including several Mercedes Benz SLs, Porsche 911s and old three-door Range Rover Klassik cars between 38 and 60 years old, compete for the viewer's attention in the carport. Our passion for these historic classics is a tribute to the unique rally tradition of these vehicles, explains Ingo Bartsch.
The blue of the pool shines between banana trees and palm trees, the welcome from the host and his charming wife is extremely warm, three guest apartments and a guest house invite you to relax. Before the big adventure begins, Sarah, Carolina, Inga and Ingo treat their guests to a delicious barbecue in the rancho under the stars. Of course, they also talk about their passion for classic aficionados.
The next morning is all about excitement. Over dusty tracks and challenging passes in mountains up to 3500 m high, we travel 400 km from San José to the Pacific Ocean.
Sometimes a well-maintained asphalt road ends, potholes make it difficult to continue or tropical rain drums on the windshield. But everything is forgotten during the picnic break with a dream view in the middle of the mountains and the destination in sight: the Kunken Lodge, hotel and spa on the Osa Peninsula on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. It is a place of perfect balance between luxury and harmony with nature. The chirping of crickets and the call of howler monkeys from the nearby rainforest are part of everyday life.
After a rich breakfast, a relaxing day awaits. It leads 90 km through untouched jungle and along the coast to the pirate bay of the privateer Sir Francis Drake. Here you really feel like you've been transported to the world of Robinson Crusoe - it's so wonderfully lonely. Ideal for a stop to hike through the tropical vegetation or to watch whales, most of the time you even get to see dolphins. Throughout the tour, guests are accompanied by their rally guide in a service vehicle. The main focus is clearly on luxury with relaxed times, comfortable speeds, sufficient time for sightseeing and socializing. It goes without saying that you stay overnight in adequate resorts. It is not a sport, not a competition. No special equipment is required on the classic cars, no touring cards, no competition licenses, helmets or special suits. The classic cars are comfortable. We take care of the entire service. The Costa Rica tour can be booked for ten days and extended by one additional day, says Ingo Bartsch.
The last day leads back to San San José - of course via a different route with a special 'ferry' to Sirpe in the jungle. From here, the somewhat wobbly mangrove ferry crosses a jungle river to the other bank. After crossing, the journey continues only on asphalt roads, past pineapple fields, banana and coffee plantations. The Rio Grande de Terraba, Costa Rica's longest river, is also on the way.
Back in San José, the participants are a little wistful, but also looking forward - they are all ready for the next adventure on four wheels!
