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.
Grano de Oro Hotel (1 Night).
Day 2: In the morning, pick up your rental car and embark on a scenic drive to Bajos del Toro, where you’ll have the afternoon free to unwind and explore at your leisure.
Bajos del Toro is an untouched paradise, nestled between rainforests and dairy farms. Known for its stunning waterfalls and refreshing swimming holes, it’s a haven for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and canopy tours. The highlight is Cataratas del Toro, one of Costa Rica’s most spectacular waterfalls. A hike to its base reveal’s unique flora, including the iconic Sombrillas plants, and offers a chance to spot diverse wildlife in this peaceful, natural setting.
El Silencio Lodge (2 Nights)
Day 3: Excursion | Bajos del Toro Cultural Experience
Our hometown, Los Bajos del Toro Amarillo is a thriving rural community with rich traditions, unsurpassed landscapes, and intriguing flora. This guided tour pays a visit to local orchid enthusiast, Don Martin Porras and his private garden. His collection features more than 400 orchid species, from fun shoe-shaped specimens to tiny varieties of Lilliputian beauty. A magnifying glass is provided for a unique micro-safari. Followed by a stroll through the local town and a fun stop at Doña Olga’s Pulpería where you can palm fresh tortillas and buy local pastries.
Guide
Day 4: Enjoy the scenic drive to Arenal at your own pace.
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!
Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa (2 Nights)
Day 5: Excursion| Arenal Volcano Expedition + La Fortuna Waterfall Tour
We begin by heading to a Private Reserve near the base of Arenal Volcano. From there, we’ll walk 1.5 kilometers along a volcanic stone path to reach the viewpoint, the closest accessible point to the volcano. At the viewpoint, the guide will share insights into the volcano’s history, including its 1968 eruption, while you enjoy views of the Green Lagoon and Lake Arenal. Afterward, we’ll descend through regenerating forest, with the chance to spot local wildlife along the way.
Next, we’ll visit La Fortuna Waterfall. Descend 500 meters, including 480 steps, surrounded by rainforest until reaching the base of the 70-meter waterfall. Take a swim in the crystal-clear waters, capture photos, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty. You might also spot wildlife like coatis, toucans, and butterflies.
Transportation, guide, water, snacks and entrance fees.
Day 6: Enjoy the scenic drive to Monteverde at your own pace.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a renowned ecotourism destination in Costa Rica, located in the Cordillera de Tilarán. At elevations of 600 to 1,800 meters above sea level, it is home to over 2,000 plant species, 400 bird species, 100 mammal species, and 1,200 reptiles and amphibians. The reserve is famous for its diverse birdlife, including the endangered Bellbird, quetzals, and many species of hummingbirds. A true sanctuary for nature lovers, Monteverde offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in its natural habitat.
Belmar Hotel (2 Nights)
Day 7: Excursion | Guided Tour to Curi-Cancha Reserve
Curicancha is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Resplendent Quetzal, Three-Wattled Bellbird, Blue-Crowned Motmot, Orange-bellied Trogon, and many others are frequently seen. Indeed, over 200 species of birds have been observed making their home in Curicancha. Frequently sighted mammals include armadillo, coati, agouti, kinkajou, ocelot, two-toed sloth, and three species of monkey: mantled howler, white-faced capuchin, and spider monkey.
Transportation, entrance fees, professional and bilingual guide.
Day 8: Enjoy the scenic drive to Quepos/Manuel Antonio at your own pace.
This part of the Pacif is a place of swaying palms and playful monkeys, sparkling blue water and a riot of tropical birds, Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is the country’s smallest and most popular national park. It’s a truly lovely place; the clearly marked trail system winds through rainforest-backed white-sand beaches and rocky headlands, the wildlife (iguanas, sloths, monkeys) is plentiful, and the views across the bay to the pristine outer islands are gorgeous.
Optional activities in the Area:
Some activities include: Manuel Antonio National Park visit and a variety of water sports, including surfing the legendary waves, diving and snorkelling and sunset cruises
***Note that Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesday
Makanda by the Sea Hotel (2 Nights)
Day 9: Shared Excursion | Guided Hike to Manuel Antonio National Park
Are you interested in having the best guided hiking or walking tour through the world-renowned Manuel Antonio National Park? Look no further!
Enjoy scenic views as you journey through lush landscapes, passing through charming towns and diverse ecosystems. This relaxing ride will set the stage for your next adventure, with the pristine beaches and vibrant wildlife of Manuel Antonio awaiting you.
Have your camera ready, as your knowledgeable guide sets his trained eyes on diverse flora and fauna for you to capture along the way.
Transportation from and to hotel, bilingual guides, park entrance fee.
Day 10: It’s time to head back to your final night in the country.
On your final night, there’s still much to discover in San José, a city nestled in the Central Valley, surrounded by mountains and rich in culture. It’s the heart of Costa Rica’s cultural and culinary scene. Stroll along the Central Avenue boulevard to see the iconic National Theater, museums, vibrant markets, and enjoy diverse dining, art exhibitions, and cultural performances.
Grano de Oro Hotel (1 night)
Day 11: Departure from San José to the International Airport
