Fixed Departure / Small Group
10 Days from $3,338 per person
Experience idyllic coastal and mountain paradise destinations in Costa Rica.
Book today with $500 per person!
Get ready for amazing nature encounters!
Contact us today for more info: costaric@costaricaexpeditions.com Toll Free from USA & Canada 1-800-608-0043
Join the Ultimate Journey to Discover the Highlights of Costa Rica!
Travel for 8 days with a small group and enjoy private transportation and private Naturalist Guide as you explore the hidden natural gems of Costa Rica. Get ready to hike around volcanic slopes, admire the stunning landscapes of the interior, the cloud forests, rainforests, and pristine beaches, and connect with the authentic local culture.
Incredible, unexpected encounters await you! Experience Hanging Bridges, Natural Hot Springs, and Guided Nature Walks, among many other unforgettable adventures.
Don’t wait any longer – this is the perfect trip for you!
Book today with only $500 per person!
#LetUsMakeItHappen
Day 01: Arrival San José, Costa Rica (No meals) (TG)
Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport. Also, when you are exiting the building, you’ll see a Costa Rica Expeditions guide, who will take you to your hotel.
Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport. Also, when you are exiting the building, you’ll see a Costa Rica Expeditions guide, who will take you to your hotel.
You’ll recognize your guide, he’ll be holding a sign with your name on it. You can count on their being there — even if your flight arrives early or arrives quite late — no matter how late. After all, it’s our first chance to have you experience that every part of your vacation will go smoothly. He or she will take you to your hotel.
Overnight at: El Presidente Hotel – or similar
Number of nights: 1
Day 02: City of San José - Arenal Volcano National Park (breakfast – lunch and dinner included)
Today meet your Private Naturalist Guide and your Driver, who will be with you for the next 8 days and depart by minibus to Arenal Volcano Region.
Today meet your Private Naturalist Guide and your Driver, who will be with you for the next 8 days and depart by minibus to Arenal Volcano Region.
Arenal Volcano, with its almost perfectly shaped cone, soars 1,633 meters (5.500 ft) above sea level. This volcano presents five craters altogether, and one of those craters is about 150 m ( 500 ft) deep. From time to time, deep earth echoes are heard and clouds of vapor or smoke billows out of the top. The frequency of activity varies greatly from day-to-day. This area also shows the largest fresh water lake in the country. Arenal Lake is a man-made water reservoir favorite among water sports lovers and fishermen. Although the main attraction in this region is the volcano, the area offers a variety of activities including boat tours on the lake, stand up paddling, a canopy walkway, zip lines, hot springs, horseback riding, canyoning, sustainable farming and biking just to name a few.
During the evening you have the following activity:
Ecotermales Fortuna (Shared)
After a day full of adrenaline, EcoTermales is the best way to relax, recharge batteries and enjoy nature. These are natural thermal hot springs which surges from the veins of the Arenal Volcano and heats thermal pools, together with the cool water pools and waterfall you will enjoy a relaxing hydro-massage.
First you sing in at the reception, you will be given a key for your locker where you can change and store your belongings. There are three separate dressing rooms one for gentleman, one for ladies and one for families, with restrooms, showers, sinks, mirrors and wooden benches.
After a short walk on a sand path you will reach a building where is located the bar and a second set of bathrooms, there are more than 6 pools with different temperatures, range from 100ºF (38ºC) to 109ºF (43ºC), you can find what suits you best. The time limit in the hot water pools is especially important to keep in mind when you are traveling with children, we recommended you spend no more than 10 minutes in the higher temperature pools and alternate an equal amount of time between hot and cold water. One of the pools has access to people with restringing mobility. While moving through the pools or letting a waterfall deliver a natural massage, you have access to the spring side bar where an assortment of blended smoothies and cocktails are prepared (additional cost). When you’ve had your fill of the springs and you’ve changed into dry cloths, a buffet style Costa Rican meal is waiting in the restaurant.
Duration: 3-4 hours.
Overnight at: Magic Mountain – or similar
Number of nights: 2
Day 03: Arenal Volcano National Park (breakfast – lunch and dinner included)
At Arenal Volcano National Park Region with the following activity included:
At Arenal Volcano National Park Region with the following activity included:
Mistico Hanging Bridges (Shared)
Take an exciting discovery stroll around open gardens, rainforest, and floored trails. Connect with the series of fix and hanging bridges over the canopy while you explore the area in search of nature wonders. Mistico consists of eight fixed bridges built with the latest techniques and designed with an eye for both beauty and safety. The hanging bridges are between 48 and 98 meters (160 – 330 feet) long and length between 8 and 22 meters (25 – 75 feet). The bridges were designed to blend with the natural environment, leaving the forest virtually intact. The trails, covering about 3.1 km (2 miles) and they are right inside the forest. As you start your walk, you can observe a significant diversity of plants and wildlife that are typical of the rainforest as well as some views of the Volcano (weather permitting).
Important Note: the bridges are between 10 feet (3 mts) and 150 feet (45 mts) high, with a length between 50 feet (15 mts) and 330 feet (100 mts). Bridges experience normal motion while guests transit them. If you suffer from height anxiety do not walk the bridges.
Day 04: Arenal Volcano National Park - Monteverde Cloud Forest (breakfast – lunch and dinner included)
Morning departure on land transfer to Monteverde. Depart Total transfer time from Arenal to Monteverde area is approximately 3 hours.
Morning departure on land transfer to Monteverde. Depart Total transfer time from Arenal to Monteverde area is approximately 3 hours.
Monteverde is a peaceful community made up of dairy farmers, naturalists and tourism service providers who have joined together to create a model for sustainable development and protection of the environment that is becoming known throughout the world. Founded in 1954 by a group of Quakers searching for a peaceful place to live, it is the home of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the Children’s Eternal Rain Forest, and the Santa Elena Reserve.
During the evening you have the following activity included:
Night Tour at Monteverde area (Shared)
Enter the trails at the night tour. Explore, discover, and spot wildlife aided by your guide at all times. You may find sleeping birds, bats, spiders, reptiles and amphibious, all within a short distance at the farm. Mammals like sloths, anteaters, porcupine and more can be spotted as well occasionally.
Overnight at: Trapp Family Lodge – or similar
Number of nights: 2
Day 05: Monteverde Cloud Forest (breakfast – lunch and dinner included)
At Monteverde Cloud Forest Region with the following activity included:
At Monteverde Cloud Forest Region with the following activity included:
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (Shared)
Today you will have an excursion to Monteverde’s Cloud Forest Reserve. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve was established in 1972 after a scientist named George Powell who was visiting the area became concerned about conserving Monteverde’s rich biodiversity. Quackers in Monteverde also contributed to the creation of the reserve which encompasses great number of species including the elusive Resplendent Quetzal. After clearing your access, walk the trails of this cloud forest in search of birds, mammals, insects, and reptiles. With the aid of your nature guide, spot birds like trogons, guans, thrushes, toucanets, and many more.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve initially covered some 810 acres (328 ha) of forested land. Nowadays, its protective reach extends over 35,089 acres (14,200 ha). Over 8 miles (13 km) of trails are available for visitors to explore.
Day 06: Monteverde Cloud Forest - Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach (breakfast – lunch and dinner included)
Transfer from the Monteverde mountains down to lowlands of the Pacific coast.
Transfer from the Monteverde mountains down to lowlands of the Pacific coast.
Discover the allure of Manuel Antonio, where white-sand beaches meet dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife. Situated on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast, just 4.3 miles (7 km) south of Quepos Harbor, this tropical paradise is a top destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its pristine beaches, explore the rich biodiversity, and soak up the sun in one of Costa Rica’s most captivating coastal gems.
Overnight at: Playa Espadilla Hotel – or similar
Number of nights: 3
Day 07: Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach (breakfast and lunch included) – dinner on your own.
At Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach Region with the following activity included:
At Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach Region with the following activity included:
Manuel Antonio National Park (Shared)
The main natural communities are the primary, secondary and mangrove forests, and lagoon and beach vegetation. The park includes 12 small islands just off the coast, which are excellent bird refuges. The fauna remains varied with 109 species of mammals including White-face Capuchin, Howler and Squirrel Monkeys, pacas, squirrels, raccoons, White- nosed Coaties, Two-toed and Three – toed Sloths, and 184 species of birds including the Fiery- billed Araçari, among other species of tropical wildlife. The predominant tree species are the Cotonron, Bully Tree, Nargusta, Black Locust, Cow Tree, Santa Maria, and Silk Cotton, with specimens as tall 30 to 40 meters. The Park is easily accessible through its comprehensive trail system.
Note: Moderate physical condition required.
Day 08: Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach (breakfast included) lunch and dinner on your own.
One full day at leisure, relax and enjoy in Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach
One full day at leisure, relax and enjoy in Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach
Manuel Antonio offers lots of different activities, kayaking, surf, cultural experiences, zip lining and much more. Or simply enjoy this wonderful tropical paradise, with its nature and fabulous beaches.
Day 09: Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach - City of San Jose (breakfast included) lunch and dinner on your own.
Today meet your Service Guide and your driver and depart by minivan back to San Jose
Today meet your Service Guide and your driver and depart by minivan back to San Jose
Overnight at: Hampton Inn Hotel or similar
Number of nights: 1
Day 10: Departure to International Airport (breakfast included)
Today, depending on your International flight time, your hotel will provide free shuttle service to the International airport (5 – 10 min drive).
Keep in mind that you need to be at the airport at least three hours prior to your departure flight time.
Hotel El Presidente
The full-service Hotel El Presidente, located in downtown San Jose, offers 70 rooms with city or mountain views. Rooms feature down comforters, premium bedding, hot showers with strong water pressure, spotless bathrooms, comfortable beds, hairdryers, and cable TV. The hotel is just a few blocks from key cultural and historical landmarks. International calls are available for a fee.
Hotel Magic Mountain
This hotel offers comfortable and modern guestrooms, and spectacular volcano view, swimming pools, hot water Jacuzzis, meeting rooms. The hotel also provides guests with a Spa. Well located only one mile from La Fortuna. The Superior rooms are located on floors one through three and offer 204 sq. ft. All Superior guestrooms are thoughtfully furnished with private bathroom, air-conditioning, wireless internet, coffee maker and balcony or terrace.
The Trapp Family Hotel
The Trapp Family Hotel, the nearest to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, offers genuine family hospitality and guided tours amidst mystic flora and fauna. Spacious guest rooms with Venetian windows are half a mile from the reserve and 4 miles from Santa Elena Town (cab fare $10-15 each way). This non-smoking hotel features an international and national cuisine restaurant, with the nearest one 3 miles away, and a bar. Temperatures range from 53 to 75°F. Superior Rooms have 2 queen beds, a private bathroom with hot water, a telephone, a hairdryer, cable TV, and garden views.
Hotel Playa Espadilla
Hotel Playa Espadilla offers amenities including an adult swimming pool, children's pool, tennis court, restaurant and bar, souvenir shop, parking, mountain trail, lush gardens, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The adjacent Restaurant Puerto Escondido serves international cuisine with Costa Rican flavors. Enjoy daily happy hour by the pool from 5 to 7 pm. Average temperatures are around 85°F. Premium Rooms feature fine wood furniture, luxury mattresses, first-rate bathrooms, two double beds, air conditioning, hair dryer, espresso coffee machine, refrigerator, safe, bathroom amenities, beach towels, beach mats, flat-screen TV with cable, Wi-Fi, and telephone.
Is this trip for you?
If you enjoy outdoor nature activities, professionally guided moderate to soft walks, and natural encounters with wildlife in their habitats, this trip is for you! Most walks are on clearly defined paths and require no specific technical experience. However, we recommend that you are comfortable walking in hilly areas. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness should be comfortable with the activities included.
Following a review of all our trips, we have categorized this trip as generally not suitable for people with reduced mobility. For those with mobility issues, this itinerary can be operated on a private basis. Please feel free to enquire.
Joining Instructions
Key Information
– Recommended Arrival Time: You can arrive at any time on Day 01, or earlier. The group tour starts in the morning on Day 02.
– Arrival Airport: San José, Costa Rica (SJO)
Getting to the Start Hotel
– A shared transfer from the airport to your first hotel is already included on your itinerary.
Catching Your Return Flight:
– The group tour finishes in the evening of Day 09 when the group travels from Manuel Antonio to San José. You will spend the night at the Hampton Inn near the airport and catch your flight back home on Day 10. Your departure flight can depart at any time on Day 10.
– Departure Airport: San José, Costa Rica (SJO)
Food & Drink
– Included Meals: All breakfasts are included. Lunches and dinners are included on Days 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06. On Day 07, lunch is included, but dinner is not. On Days 08 and 09, lunches and dinners are on your own.
Weather
Costa Rica’s weather is too complex to be neatly categorized. The rainiest months in some regions are the driest in others. During the wet months (May through November), mornings are usually clear, followed by an hour or two of rain anytime from noon onwards. Occasionally, a large low-pressure system can cause a week of continuous rain. While this is a possibility, it is very rare for one of the tours to be canceled due to poor weather conditions.
Approximate Temperatures
– San José: Min. 60°F – Max. 77°F
– Arenal Volcano: Min. 69°F – Max. 86°F
– Monteverde Cloud Forest: Min. 57°F – Max. 71°F
– Manuel Antonio: Min. 71°F – Max. 89°F
Safety in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is known for its political stability and pacifism, boasting one of the oldest democracies in the world. With a literacy rate over 90%, a valued education system, and a strong medical system accessible to most residents and non-residents, Costa Rica is a safe destination. However, general common-sense precautions should still be followed, as there can be people with bad intentions anywhere. Our Local Experts are fully capable of providing you with any necessary instructions if needed.
Water Safety: Generally, the water is safe to drink, especially in the highlands. On the coast, it’s best to ask if the hotel has filtered water and, if not, stick to bottled water.
Food Safety: Feel safe trying new foods; if it’s served in a restaurant or market, it’s likely to be clean and well-cooked. Use the same judgment you would in your own country.
Official Entry Requirements to Costa Rica
We recommend checking the official websites of your local embassy or consulate to verify the current regulations applicable at the time of your intended travel, as Costa Rica Expeditions assumes no responsibility for any trip interruptions caused by entry regulations. Generally, citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union can travel to Costa Rica with only a valid passport; visas are not required.
For more details, check the official conditions here: https://www.visitcostarica.com/en/costa-rica/planning-your-trip/entry-requirements
Terms & Conditions
Please review our Term & Conditions and other relevant information about Costa Rica and our company in the following link:
https://www.costaricaexpeditions.com/resourcelibrary/what-are-the-terms-and-conditions.php?mnu=5&header=WL| From | To | Double | Triple | Sgl Suppl* | Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Saturday, July 20 |
Monday, July 29 |
$3,338.00 |
$3,224.00 |
$875 |
Sold Out |
|
Saturday, Aug. 24 |
Monday, Sept. 02 |
$3,338.00 |
$3,224.00 |
$875 |
Sold Out |
|
Friday, Sept. 20 |
Sunday, Sept. 29 |
$3,338.00 |
$3,224.00 |
$875 |
Yes |
|
Saturday, Oct. 19 |
Monday, Oct. 29 |
$3,338.00 |
$3,224.00 |
$875 |
Yes |