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Last Updated on February 26, 2025 by Jeremy
Taking a road trip from Canada to Costa Rica with a travel trailer might sound ambitious, but with careful planning, the right mindset, and a thirst for adventure, it’s a journey worth every mile.
From snowy Saskatchewan to the lush rainforests of Central America, this 7,684-kilometer (4,774-mile) odyssey offers breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable encounters, and a true test of the RVer’s spirit. Here’s how we made it happen, the tools that helped us along the way, and the lessons we learned.
The Journey Begins: From Swift Current to the U.S. Border
On October 27, 2024, we left behind the crisp autumn air of Swift Current, Saskatchewan. The week leading up to our departure was a whirlwind of preparations: clearing out the trailer, discarding restricted items like fresh produce, eggs, and meat to avoid border issues, and double-checking our supplies for the long haul. With our Dodge Ram towing a 32-foot travel trailer, we were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Our first surprise came quickly: the border crossing we’d planned to use was closed on Sundays. A detour through Alberta added three hours to our route, setting the tone for an unpredictable journey. Along the way, we encountered a friendly local who, despite the unexpected news about the closure, shared stories that lightened our spirits and reminded us of the hospitality waiting to be discovered along our path.
Planning the Route
Our itinerary was ambitious but flexible. We planned to drive through the U.S., cross into Mexico, and navigate Central America before reaching our final destination in Rio Celeste, Costa Rica.
Some of our trip highlights we planned along the route are as follows:
- Helena, Montana: A Harvest Hosts location at Missouri River Brewing Co.
- Provo, Utah: A friend’s driveway for a much-needed break and a chance to introduce someone to Wealthy Affiliate.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: Oasis RV Park and a Halloween ghost tour.
- Quartzsite, Arizona: BLM camping at La Posa South.
- Pharr, Texas: The gateway to Mexico.
These stops were carefully chosen for a mix of practical and personal reasons. Harvest Hosts provided unique overnight stays, friends’ homes offered respite, and iconic locations like Las Vegas gave us opportunities to explore and recharge. Tools like Allstays, iOverlander, and Roamless eSim became our lifeline for finding campgrounds, gas stations, and reliable cell service.
Highlights of the U.S. Leg
Harvest Hosts and RV Parks
Harvest Hosts locations brought a special charm to our stops. Or at least, that was the intention. We’ve used Harvest Hosts before and recommend them all the time. From a brewery in Helena to a peaceful farm in Utah, these stays were going to be more than just places to park. They were going to offer local experiences, like sampling craft beers and enjoying breathtaking sunsets over quiet fields. However our delay managed us to miss these opportunitiues.
Meanwhile, the Allstays app guided us to convenient RV parks with stellar reviews. Great Falls RV Park in Montana, for instance, provided a restful night’s sleep and easy access to local amenities. It also helped us out to find places in Texas before crossing the Mexico border.
Exploring Las Vegas
Las Vegas was a vibrant contrast to the quieter stops along our journey.
We explored the M&M Factory, visited the Flamingo Sanctuary, and walked the bustling Strip. The Halloween ghost tour was an eerie highlight, though the city’s energy made it clear we were ready to return to the serenity of RV life by the end of our visit.
Oatman, AZ: A Step Back in Time
On our way through Arizona, we stopped at the historic town of Oatman, nestled along the iconic Route 66.
Known for its old-West charm, Oatman is like stepping back in time, complete with wooden sidewalks, rustic storefronts, and its most famous residents—the wild burros that roam freely through the town. These friendly donkeys, descendants of those used during the gold-mining era, add a unique touch to the experience.
We spent a memorable afternoon exploring the quaint shops and enjoying a hearty meal at a local saloon. The surrounding desert landscape, with its rugged hills and cacti, offered stunning views and photo opportunities. Oatman felt like a hidden gem that brought a sense of nostalgia and adventure to our journey.
Crossing Into Mexico
November 15, 2024, marked our entry into Mexico via the Pharr-Reynosa border. Crossing the border with an RV requires preparation and patience. Armed with pre-purchased insurance, pesos for fees, and well-organized documents, we navigated immigration and vehicle inspections.
Research and tools like iOverlander were invaluable for understanding the process and avoiding unnecessary delays.
Traveling in Mexico brought its own set of challenges:
- Driving etiquette: Road lines were often suggestions, and speed bumps (“topes”) appeared without warning.
- Wildlife and potholes: These hazards reinforced our decision to avoid night driving.
- Pemex gas stations: Many allowed overnight parking, offering a safe and convenient place to rest.
Despite these obstacles, the vibrant culture, delicious roadside food, and warm interactions with locals made this leg of the journey unforgettable.
Central America: The Heart of the Adventure
Guatemala
Our first major hitch repair happened in Guatemala, where we stayed at the welcoming La Combi campground. The local welder transformed our temporary fix into a robust solution, while the campground’s hospitality provided much-needed comfort. The surrounding scenery, with its lush greenery and charming local markets, was a bonus during our extended stay.
El Salvador and Beyond
El Salvador tested both our patience and our hitch’s durability. Rough roads led to further repairs, but the friendly mechanics and locals turned these setbacks into opportunities for cultural exchange. Highlights included exploring vibrant markets, savoring authentic Salvadorian meals, and navigating the scenic coastal roads of Honduras.
Essential Tools and Tips
Must-Have Apps
It goes without saying that Apps are a must have on long trips. That or paper copy maps which also came in handy for us. Here are the top 3 apps that helped us along the way:
- Allstays: For finding RV parks and amenities in the U.S.
- iOverlander: A lifesaver for locating campgrounds and safe parking in Central America.
- Roamless eSim: Ensured reliable cell service and data for navigation and communication.
Key Tips for Long Hauls
- Flexibility: Border delays, road closures, and mechanical issues are inevitable. Keep your schedule flexible.
- Pre-trip maintenance: Check your hitch, tires, and brakes before departure.
- Documentation: Have all vehicle permits, insurance, and travel documents organized and accessible. Even make copies.
- Safety first: Avoid driving at night, especially in Mexico and Central America, where road hazards are common.
For more Apps to have while camping check out this article: https://everythingrvsandmore.com/the-best-apps-for-camping/
Arriving in Costa Rica
After over a month on the road, we reached Rio Celeste in Costa Rica. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. The first sight of the lush, tropical surroundings was a welcome reward for the challenges we’d faced. Setting up our trailer in this stunning location felt like the culmination of all our efforts.
The tranquility of Costa Rica’s natural beauty, from its pristine beaches to verdant rainforests, was a stark contrast to the snowy plains we’d left behind. As we settled in, we eagerly began exploring the local culture and connecting with fellow travelers, ready to make the most of our time in paradise.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on this incredible journey from Canada to Costa Rica, it’s clear that this wasn’t just a road trip—it was a life-changing adventure. Every mile brought new challenges, breathtaking views, and invaluable lessons. From the frosty prairies of Saskatchewan to the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica, this trip was a testament to the diversity of landscapes and cultures along the Pan-American Highway.
Traveling such a vast distance with an RV taught us the importance of preparation and adaptability. Whether it was navigating snow-covered mountain passes, embracing the warmth of desert camping, or facing the unexpected at international borders, every obstacle became part of the story. The camaraderie we shared with fellow travelers, the welcoming locals we met, and the unique wildlife we encountered enriched the experience beyond measure.
For those considering a similar journey, know that it’s not just about reaching the destination—it’s about the countless moments along the way. The quiet mornings in campgrounds, the laughter shared over roadside meals, and the awe of witnessing nature’s beauty in all its forms are what truly make the adventure unforgettable. So, if you’re dreaming of taking the ultimate road trip, don’t wait. Plan carefully, pack wisely, and embrace the unknown. The road is calling, and it’s filled with memories waiting to be made.
Care to watch our dashcam footage video on youtube? Check it out below:
Pura Vida!
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