wild costa rica coast to coast
Embark on an eleven-day odyssey, unlocking the secrets of Costa Rica’s Hidden Treasures. Your adventure commences with an extraordinary exploration of the renowned Tortuguero Canals, promising a unique and immersive experience. Delve into the warmth of natural hot springs nestled on the slopes of the majestic Arenal Volcano, setting the stage for relaxation and wonder.
But the journey doesn’t conclude there. We continue our expedition to the spectacular Monteverde Cloud Forest, where you’ll walk among the treetops on hanging bridges, surrounded by the wonders of nature and wildlife. As we draw our adventure to a close, bask in the glory of the world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park, renowned for its pristine beaches and diverse fauna.
Over eleven days, you’ll witness the unparalleled beauty and richness that define Costa Rica’s treasures. Each destination unfolds a new chapter in your exploration, promising memories that will linger long after the journey is complete.
Includes
One Night in San José: Enjoy a comfortable stay at Park Inn or a similar accommodation in San José, setting the stage for your journey.
Tortuguero Exploration: Experience seamless land and boat transportation to Tortuguero.Revel in a two-night stay at Pachira Group Hotels, complete with all meals and tours. (Note: Park entrance fee and night tour are not included.)
Arenal Volcano Retreat: Delight in a two-night stay at Arenal Springs Hotel & Spa or a similar retreat. Enjoy complimentary breakfasts. Immerse yourself in a captivating hiking tour to the lava flows of Arenal National Park.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Adventure: Indulge in a three-night stay at Hotel El Establo or a similar haven. Breakfast is included. Traverse the hanging walkways at Selvatura with a knowledgeable guide. Embark on a hiking tour through the enchanting Monteverde Cloud Forest Park.
Manuel Antonio Serenity: Seamless transportation to Manuel Antonio awaits. Luxuriate in a two-night stay at a Garden View room, Parador Hotel, or a similar accommodation. Immerse yourself in a hiking tour through the captivating Manuel Antonio National Park.
Homeward Bound: Conclude your journey with a comfortable transfer to the Juan Santamaria International Airport.
Not Included:
- International airfare
- Airport departure taxes
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal equipment
- Hotel extras (laundry, phone calls, room service)
- Gratuities
- Costs associated with changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control.
Our ‘Includes’ package ensures a stress-free and enriching exploration of Costa Rica’s Hidden Treasures. From pristine beaches to lush cloud forests, every element has been meticulously arranged for an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Day 1: San José
Your Costa Rican adventure begins the moment you touch down at Juan Santamaria International Airport. As you step off the plane, our dedicated driver will be there to extend a warm welcome and usher you to the comfort of your hotel for the first night. Relax and settle in, as the journey into the heart of Costa Rica’s wonders is about to unfold.
Day 2: San Jose -Tortuguero
Embark on a captivating adventure around 6:30 a.m. as we depart from your San Jose hotel in the early morning hours. Traverse the stunning Braulio Carrillo National Park, a sanctuary boasting 95% primary forest cover, showcasing the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica. En route, savor a delectable Costa Rican breakfast, setting the tone for an exciting day ahead.
As we journey, witness the lush banana plantations, gaining insights into one of Costa Rica’s prime products. Upon reaching the port, board a comfortable boat for a mesmerizing ride along the enchanting Tortuguero Canals. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary beauty of this exotic paradise, surrounded by an array of flora and fauna.
Arrive at Evergreen, Anhinga, or Pachira Lodge, where a refreshing cocktail and a delightful lunch await, marking the perfect interlude to your day of exploration. Afterward, delve into the rich history of the region with visits to the museum, the beach area, and the charming town of Tortuguero. This one-of-a-kind experience promises memories of breathtaking landscapes and unique encounters with the natural wonders of Costa Rica.
Day 3: Tortuguero
On a morning tour at 6:30 a.m. and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of nature as you traverse the scenic canals, which stretch across the park from southeast to northwest. Marvel at the lush landscapes while keeping an eye out for the diverse wildlife inhabiting the canals and marshes, including four species of turtles, the endangered West Indian manatee (Trichchus manatus), and the rare crocodile (Crocodylus acutus).
Return to the lodge for a satisfying breakfast, and then seize the opportunity to indulge in some free time. Experience the unique paradise with a kayak tour, whether on your own or with a guide, for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure amidst magnificent flora and fauna. As the day unfolds, return to the hotel to enjoy the refreshing pool. After a delightful lunch, take leisurely strolls along the hotel’s trails or unwind by the turtle-shaped swimming pool. As evening descends, savor a delicious dinner, followed by the option to relax and enjoy a beer, cocktail, or soda in the bar, offering an incredible view of the canals.
Day 4: Tortuguero - La Fortuna Arenal Volcano Area
Following a delightful breakfast, your next destination awaits as we arrange a transfer to the port. From there, you’ll be transported to El Ceibo Restaurant, where a delicious lunch awaits. After your culinary indulgence, our dedicated driver will pick you up and whisk you away to the captivating Arenal Volcano Region, where you’ll find refuge at Arenal Springs Hotel or a similar accommodation for two nights.
Arenal Springs Hotel & Spa, designed with 100% nature lover consciousness, stands as an ecotourism model in La Fortuna, San Carlos, in the northern part of Costa Rica. Positioned near the Arenal Volcano, the hotel offers a privileged view of this natural wonder. Ensuring safety, our location is based on volcanologists’ studies, placing us outside the high-risk area. The surrounding mountains create a picturesque setting, enhancing the feeling of being embraced by nature.
At Arenal Springs Hotel & Spa, we open our doors with the goal of providing a relaxed and comfortable vacation in an exclusive, family-friendly atmosphere. Committed to eco-friendly tourism, we hold a deep conviction and concern for protecting and caring for nature. Our purpose is rooted in the belief that the future of our planet depends on the care we extend to it today. Embrace the tranquility and natural beauty as you make your home in this eco-conscious haven during your stay in the Arenal Volcano Region.
Day 5: Arenal Hot Springs
Embark on an exhilarating adventure today with a guided walking tour at the Arenal Volcano National Park. Discover the fascinating history of this awe-inspiring volcano while gaining insights into the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home.
As the day unfolds, around 5:00 p.m., prepare for a culinary delight at the New Selva Rustica Restaurant. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to savor a wonderful dinner, selecting from a menu that caters to various preferences. After this delectable dining experience, we’ll seamlessly transport you back to the comfort of your hotel, concluding a day filled with exploration, discovery, and exquisite flavors in the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Day 6: La Fortuna - Monteverde
After a delightful breakfast, your journey continues as our driver picks you up and transports you to Lake Arenal. Here, a boat awaits, providing you with a remarkable opportunity to navigate across the lake, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. On the other side, our attentive driver will be waiting to seamlessly take you to the enchanting Monteverde area.
Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the exuberant beauty of Santa Elena town, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Cloud Forest. The air is filled with the freshness of nature, and the town offers a serene atmosphere, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience in this mystical and biodiverse region.
Day 7: Monteverde
After a satisfying breakfast, our knowledgeable guide will pick you up for an exciting day at Selvatura Park. Brace yourself for an immersive experience as you embark on a tour of the Hanging Bridges. Traverse this remarkable system of bridges, offering a unique perspective of the cloud forest’s wonders from the canopy level. The adventure continues with a thrilling zipline tour, allowing you to soar through the air on cables and witness the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings.
Selvatura’s suspension walkways showcase cutting-edge bridge engineering, ensuring safety and providing an unparalleled view of the cloud forest. The tour comprises eight bridges of varying lengths, spanning between 204 and 480 feet, totaling approximately 1.8 miles.
Post-tour, head to the town for a delightful lunch, included in your package. Return to your hotel afterward, where you can choose to relax or explore the charming Santa Elena Village. The evening offers the option to either dine at the hotel or venture into town for dinner, providing flexibility to tailor your experience to your preferences.
Day 8: Monteverde
After a hearty breakfast, gear up for a guided hiking tour through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking biodiversity of one of Costa Rica’s most stunning protected areas. Positioned atop the Continental Divide, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve spans both the Caribbean and Pacific slopes, creating unique temperature and humidity gradients that support six distinct vegetation communities.
Renowned for its outstanding wildlife sanctuaries, the Preserve is home to over 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 120 species of amphibians and reptiles, and an impressive 2,500 species of plants, including 420 different kinds of orchids. Keep an eye out for iconic wildlife such as the jaguar, Ocelot, Baird’s Tapir, Three-wattled Bellbird, Bare-necked Umbrella-bird, and the Resplendent Quetzal.
After your captivating exploration, return to the hotel for lunch. As the day unfolds, around 5:20 p.m., prepare for a unique night walk through the forest. Absorb the enchanting ambiance of the nocturnal world before returning to the hotel for a leisurely evening and a well-deserved overnight stay.
Day 9: Monteverde - Manuel Antonio
After a delightful breakfast around 8:15 a.m., a comfortable van awaits to transport you to the stunning zone of Manuel Antonio. Your retreat for the next part of your journey is the exclusive Parador Hotel, offering Jungle View rooms.
Perched atop a majestic bluff with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by 400 acres of lush tropical rainforest, Hotel Parador ‘Boutique Resort’ is situated in the most remote and pristine area of Manuel Antonio. Yet, it remains within minutes of the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park, the charming sport fishing town of Quepos, and the local airport. A hidden gem awaits just a 10-minute walk from the hotel—a secluded bay with a breathtaking white sand beach embraced by tranquil turquoise waters and the lush jungle.
Hotel Parador has become an emblematic destination for leisure on the Central Pacific Coast, offering all the expected amenities of a four-plus resort while delivering personalized service. Explore the various facilities, including two restaurants, bars, a conference room, gift shops, spa services, a tennis court, and much more. Indulge in the serenity of this idyllic retreat during your stay in Manuel Antonio.
Day 10: Manuel Antonio
After a delightful breakfast, a knowledgeable guide will pick you up for an enriching walking tour through the Manuel Antonio National Park. This park boasts four intriguing geomorphologic features, including the tombolo at Punta Catedral, the blowhole at Puerto Escondido, Punta Serrucho, and the pre-Columbian underwater turtle trap at the western tip of Manuel Antonio Beach. As you explore, you’ll encounter various habitats, from primary and secondary forests to mangrove swamps covering 18 hectares, small herbaceous swamps, and open water lagoons.
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, featuring 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. After this insightful journey, return to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at the beach, consider taking an optional tour, or simply unwind with a refreshing cocktail by the hotel’s inviting swimming pool. Embrace the tranquility of Manuel Antonio and prepare for a restful overnight stay.
Day 11: Departure Day
Your journey concludes with transportation to the Juan Santamaria International Airport. Departure from the hotel will be arranged according to your flight schedule, ensuring a seamless and stress-free conclusion to your unforgettable adventure. Safe travels and thank you for exploring the hidden treasures of Costa Rica with us!
