Day 1: Arrive to San José
Welcome to Costa Rica! For your added comfort, our representative will be waiting for you just outside the airport doors, holding a sign with your name. After clearing immigration and customs, you’ll be greeted and escorted by your private transfer, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride to your hotel in San José.
Radisson Hotel (1 Night)
Day 2: Pickup Car Rental. Self drive to Sarapiquí
Sarapiquí is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Known for its lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, and rich agricultural heritage, this region offers a perfect blend of eco-tourism, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Selva Verde Lodge & Rainforest Reserve (1 Night)
Day 3: In the morning, embark on an exhilarating Whitewater Rafting Adventure on the Sarapiquí River, navigating Class II-III rapids in La Virgen. After the tour selfdrive to Arenal
The Northern Plains of Costa Rica showcases some very scenic countryside towns. Small agriculture communities and cattle ranches cover rolling hills and deep valleys. The plains, rainforests and rivers make the north central a must-see in any Costa Rica program. The main attraction is the iconic Arenal Volcano. The Arenal Volcano area is Costa Rica’s premier region of exploration and excitement: Arenal is synonymous to adventure and Eco-discovery, where you can embark in a wide variety of activities. Enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting or canyoning, or combine adventure with ecological discovery in a canopy tour. Hike the volcano or explore the rainforest strolling through hanging bridges. Feel transformed by the beauty and variety of our wildlife and tropical jungle. Get ready for a life changing adventure!
This trip begins in the town known as La Virgen de Sarapiquí, one of the most important communities in the area, and runs through a beautiful section of exciting white water rapids and beautiful pools, all surrounded by lush nature. It is excellent for first-time rafters who want excitement and good rapids; as well as for people with previous rafting experience. To navigate this section, the minimum age for children is 9-10 years; and in older adults, it is important to take into account their physical condition or experience. Even so, we do not recommend the participation of older adults over 60 years of age. The journey of the complete section (La Virgen – Chilamate) lasts between 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours, and covers a distance of 16 kilometers (7 miles). This section includes a stop halfway through the journey to enjoy a fruit snack. During the journey, the guides will help you identify many species of birds, plants and other animals that you can observe on the banks of the river.
Equipment, bilingual guide, transportation
Arenal Volcano Inn (2 Nights)
Day 4: Biking Tour Around the Arenal Lake
Cycling is the second most practiced sport in Costa Rica, after soccer. Speaking specifically of mountain biking; the characteristics of our geography, the great extension of rural areas, and the scenic beauty of the roads allow us to have some of the best routes in the world. On this tour, we will travel a low traffic route for approximately 8 miles (13 km) each way. The two main attractions of the area, the majestic Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal, will give us incredible views on either side, as we cross picturesque towns, forests, and streams. It is important to highlight that you do NOT need to be an expert cyclist for this tour. The tour is an excellent combination of nature and recreational, non-competitive sport; however, we can adapt the route to your desired difficulty level and extend the tour to a little more than the 8 miles (13 km) if needed. Along the ride, it is possible to encounter wildlife species such as coatis, monkeys, toucans, and herons, among others. A guide will accompany you on the tour and our assistance van will be near in case you need anything.
Transportation, gloves, helmet, mountain bike, bottle of water, fruits, and guide.
Day 5: Self drive to Tenorio
The Tenorio Volcano National Park is one home of Costa Rica´s most spectacular natural wonders: the sky blue Río Celeste Waterfall. The result of sulphur and calcium carbonate from the minerals in the river are giving the bright color. As this river is situated inside the Tenorio National Park, one must hike within the park to see it. Along its trails, wildlife abounds with extensive bird species, butterflies and monkeys. One highlight of the trails is the climb to the volcano´s symmetrical cinder cone, as well as multiple hot springs along the way.
Tenorio Lodge (2 Nights)
Day 6: Tubing adventure at Celeste River
We start with a safety orientation before to go to river and how you can maneuver your tube on the rapids on the river, the trip starts by follow the guides down some great rapids on the river. Your river guide will guide the trip through the best routes to pick as the group maneuvers through the class I and II rapids. Mid way there is a stop river in the very nice blue pool on the river where you can jump from the wall to the river and have fun over there. Later we keep going down on the river and we finish the tour in a nice place where we can enjoy a quick fruit break with season fruits, juice, water, coffee and some cookies. In the last point there is a place where you can change and take a shower and also there are the toilets.Tubing is the perfect way to soak up the sun with family and friends and to enjoy the blue river but more important you will have loads of fun.
Swimming Suit, sandals with straps, change of clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent.
Day 7: Selfdrive to Monteverde
A startling haven for all that is living and natural, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve promises a journey that will make you one with nature–at a whole new level. Located in the Cordillera de Tilarán, Monteverde is one of the top ecotourism destinations the world over, being one of the most spectacular wildlife sanctuary and nature reserve in the world. It is actually home to some of the most endangered species in the planet. Its elevation is from 600 meters to 1800 meters above sea level in some isolated areas. It currently houses about 2,000 plant & tree species, 400 bird species, 100 species of mammals and around 1,200 amphibians and reptiles as well as hundreds of unique fern and orchid species. Birds are one of the main attractions in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve as a lot of them would migrate there and a variety of species are for everyone to see alive and freely hovering. Some of the famed birds found in the cloud forest are the bare-necked umbrella birds, the endangered Bellbird, quetzals and over 30 species of hummingbirds.
Sibu Lodge (2 Nights)
Day 8: Hike at El Tigre waterfalls – Full Tour
Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure at El Tigre Waterfalls, a hidden gem in the lush cloud forests of Monteverde. This scenic trail takes you through dense jungle, crossing hanging bridges and multiple streams, leading to four breathtaking waterfalls. The hike is approximately 5.5 km (3.4 miles) and offers a mix of well-maintained trails, river crossings, and some steep sections, making it a moderate to challenging trek.
Along the way, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, with opportunities to spot exotic birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The reward? Stunning waterfall views and the chance to refresh yourself in the crystal-clear pools beneath them.
For those who prefer a shorter hike, an optional horseback ride or 4×4 transport is available for the return journey. This experience is perfect for adventure seekers looking to explore the raw beauty of Monteverde beyond the usual tourist paths.
Transportation, Entrance to the falls, 5 km hike, horseback riding or Jeep 4×4 for the last 3 km, and lunch Included.
Day 9: Selfdrive to Uvita
Just 17km south of Dominical, this growing village consists of some a scattering of hotels in the jungle-covered hills above. Uvita has become quite a popular and buzzing travel destination thanks to its increasingly sought-after main attraction, Parque Nacional Marino Ballena. The marine reserve has become famous for its migrating pods of humpback whales and its virtually abandoned wilderness beaches, but there are also good waterfalls nearby. One of the country’s most important tourist events happens yearly in Uvita: An increasingly popular Whale and Dolphin Festival celebrating the arrival of the humpbacks. Recognizable about Marino Ballena national Park is a 1 km sand bar that reminds of the shape of a whale tail, a result of converging currents. Uvita is perfect for travelers that are looking for an off-the beaten path holiday as not many tourists are frequenting Uvita´s beaches. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby waterfalls Cascada Verde and the Catarata Pavon which are great for swimming in the crystal clear waters!
La Cusinga Lodge Hotel (2 Nights)
Day 10: Marino Ballena National Park Combination (Whale & Dolphin)
The boat departs from Punta Uvita Beach and you will visit the famous Punta Uvita Whale’s Tail, Ballena Island, Tres Hermanas Islets and Ventana Sea Caves. During the tour we look out for humpback whales (seasonally) and two different species of resident dolphins. We also visit the coral and rock reefs to snorkel and observe the wonderful marine wildlife of the Ballena Marine Park. While cruising in the boat you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the coastline of Costa Ballena and observe the diversity of shore and pelagic birds nesting and roosting in the Islets of the park. This tour is very popular in Bahia Ballena and highly recommended for the whole family. It is suitable for children over three years of age.
Guide, entrance fee to the park, bottled water, tropical fruits, snorkeling equipment.
Day 11: Selfdrive to Puerto Jimenez. Park the Car and Take the private Transfer to Carate. Then Hike to La Leona Lodge
Ecologically varied, the Corcovado National Park is among the most biologically intense places on earth. Located on the wild and untamed Osa Peninsula, this national park is breathtakingly beautiful and is one of the remotest parks in the country. Home to the largest and only tropical primary lowland rainforest in the world, the Corcovado National Park is also the habitat of a plethora of endangered plant and animal species. Mostly undisturbed because of its isolation and inaccessibility, it is home to the beautiful Scarlet Macaws, the Red-Eyed Tree Frog and the Tapir, the largest terrestrial mammal in Central and South America. Habitat of the rare Harpy Eagle, the Corcovado Park also is a great place to spot the poison arrow frog, indigenous wild cats, crocodiles, pumas and jaguars as well as four species of sea turtles. This park has plenty of rainfall but is a joy to hike through ( guided ) with its dense forestation that opens up onto stunningly beautiful beaches. With its virgin beauty, visiting this park allows you to experience nature at its finest and promises an incredible adventure for those who dare to trail blaze their way through this amazing region. It is a true Mecca for wildlife enthusiasts!
La Leona Eco Lodge (3 Nights)
Day 12: Half Day Corcovado National Park Hike
Today you will have the chance to discover mysteries of the Corcovado National Park. You will hike on the trails Madrigal, Cementerio, Paraíso and El Barco while accompanied by a professional guide. El Barco runs close to the beach. You can admire kapok trees which are the highest trees in the Osa Peninsula. Other impressing trees include the matapalo, the naked indian, the balsa and the jobo tree. You also see endemic plants of the Neotropics like heliconias, lianas, fruit trees, medicinal plants, bromeliads and epiphytes. Generally we have the chance to spot a great variety of wildlife such as monkeys, scarlet macaws, white nosed coatis, tayras and several species of birds. With a little bit of luck we catch a glimpse on a puma, tapir or a sloth.
Guide, Entrance Fee to the National Park
Day 13: Free Day at La Leona – Corcovado
Enjoy your day relaxing at your hotel and surroundings.
Day 14: Hike back from La Leona Lodge to Carate. Take the private transfer to Puerto Jiménez. Selfdrive to Alajuela
Enjoy your last night in the country and take some time to relax as you prepare for your departure tomorrow.
Buena Vista Hotel (1 Night)
Day 15: Departure from Alajuela to the International Airport
Private Transfer from Alajuela to International Airport
