We Love —
- Exploring Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems, from the canals of Tortuguero to the cloud forests of Monteverde, with stops at majestic volcanoes and idyllic beaches.
- Observing extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat, with unique chances to spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, sea turtles, and so much more.
- Enjoying the freedom of car hire, giving you the flexibility to explore hidden gems and set your own pace on the open road.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
Discover the heart of Costa Rica through an itinerary of 9 nights, designed to reveal the country’s most breathtaking natural treasures. Enhance your Costa Rica experience by adding 2, 4, 6, or 8 additional nights at your final hotel.
Navigate the wild canals of Tortuguero, a sanctuary for countless bird and animal species. Relax in the soothing thermal springs of Arenal beneath the gaze of its majestic volcano. Wander through the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, where rare plants and animals thrive in a magical atmosphere. Finally, unwind on the idyllic beaches of Manuel Antonio, where the rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean in perfect harmony. Each stage of the journey offers a new encounter with Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity, blending adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Combining the best of a guided tour with the freedom of a road trip, the second part of your stay gives you the chance to explore the country at your own pace with an included car hire for a truly unique travel experience.
Choose the length of your stay:
9 night tour
Day 1: Arrival in San José
Day 2: San José - Tortuguero
Day 3: Tortuguero National Park
Day 4: Tortuguero - La Fortuna, Arenal
Day 5: La Fortuna, Arenal
Day 6: La Fortuna - Monteverde
Day 7: Monteverde
Day 8: Monteverde - Manuel Antonio
Day 9: Manuel Antonio
Day 10: Manuel Antonio - San José - Departure
11, 13, 15, and 19 night tour
You can extend your stay in Costa Rica by adding 2, 4, 6, or 8 extra nights in Manuel Antonio
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your itinerary in detail —
9 NIGHT ROAD TRIP
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SAN JOSE
Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), you will be greeted by one of our local representatives, who will assist you with any necessary information and ensure a smooth start to your journey. Take your private transfer to your first hotel, check into your room and spend a relaxing evening before your adventure begins.
- Overnight in San José
DAY 2: SAN JOSE - TORTUGUERO
Early in the morning, meet at the hotel reception at the scheduled time for a shared transfer to the breathtaking Tortuguero region, located in Costa Rica’s North Caribbean (approx. 3 hours). Along the way, enjoy a stop in the town of Guápiles for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a local private restaurant before continuing to the pier.
There, you will board a boat to Tortuguero, a journey that serves as a stunning introduction to the heart of the rainforest (approx 1 hour and 30 minutes). As you navigate the winding canals, immerse yourself in the lush scenery, where vibrant shades of green and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable experience. Upon arrival at the lodge, check in, settle into your room, and savour a delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, meet your local guide for an excursion to the charming Tortuguero Village. This unique town, home to approximately 500 residents, is nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the tranquil canals. With no cars and only footpaths, Tortuguero offers an authentic glimpse into the relaxed Caribbean way of life. Stroll through its colourful streets, interact with the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this remote yet captivating community.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
- Overnight in Tortuguero
DAY 3: TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Rise early for an unforgettable morning immersed in nature. Meet your guide for a boat tour at sunrise through the breathtaking canals of Tortuguero National Park (entrance fee included), where the jungle awakens with the sounds of wildlife. Capture stunning photos as you glide through the waterways, exploring a vast network of canals, lagoons, and dense rainforests with an expert naturalist guide. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, sloths, caimans, toucans, and other exotic creatures that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
After this magical experience, return to the lodge to enjoy a well-deserved breakfast. At the appropriate time, the guide will take guests on a guided walk through the lodge's private trails. Along the way, guests may encounter monkeys, sloths, toucans, frogs, and a diverse array of exotic plants. This walk is perfect for nature lovers seeking an up-close encounter with the beauty and wonder of the Costa Rican rainforest. Spend the rest of the day at leisure and enjoy the last afternoon in Tortuguero.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
- Overnight in Tortuguero
DAY 4: TORTUGUERO - LA FORTUNA, ARENAL
After breakfast, check out of the lodge and prepare to continue your adventure. Board a shared transfer by boat and land from Tortuguero to Guápiles (approx. 2 hours), where you will enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, meet the car hire representative, who will provide you with your rental vehicle and all necessary information for your journey to La Fortuna, Arenal, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano (approx. 2 hours).
Upon arrival in La Fortuna, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax and unwind, enjoying the hotel’s facilities and the surrounding natural beauty.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
- Overnight in Arenal
DAY 5: LA FORTUNA, ARENAL
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Today, you have plenty of time to relax and explore the wonders of Arenal at your leisure.
If you’re a nature and adventure enthusiast, the Arenal region offers a wide array of exciting activities and breathtaking landscapes to discover. Unwind in the natural hot springs, where the geothermal energy of the volcano creates a serene sanctuary of relaxation and tranquillity.
For those seeking adventure, embark on a hike through the lava trails of Arenal Volcano National Park, marvel at the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, or feel the rush of adrenaline as you navigate the rapids of the Balsa River, surrounded by lush tropical scenery.
You can also soar above the treetops on a thrilling zipline tour or choose from many other exhilarating outdoor experiences.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight in La Fortuna, Arenal
DAY 6: LA FORTUNA, ARENAL - MONTEVERDE
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and driving to Monteverde (approx. 3 hours). After settling into your hotel, start exploring this atmospheric cloud-forest town, where misty trails, lush greenery and exceptional biodiversity create one of Costa Rica’s most enchanting settings.
In the afternnon, join a Traditional Coffee Tour and dive into the country’s rich coffee heritage. Your guide will walk you through the full process — from planting and harvesting to drying, roasting and brewing — while sharing insights into its cultural importance. Wander through the plantation, observe traditional methods and finish with a freshly brewed cup that brings the experience to life.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight in Monteverde
DAY 7: MONTEVERDE
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a leisurely day to explore the natural wonders of Monteverde at your own pace.
Thrill-seekers can soar above the treetops on exhilarating zip lines, while nature enthusiasts can explore the stunning hanging bridges for a panoramic view of the lush canopy. For a deeper connection to local traditions, we suggest taking part in cultural and culinary experiences that showcase Costa Rican heritage.
As night falls, embark on a jungle night walk to uncover the hidden nocturnal world of the cloud forest.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight in Monteverde
DAY 8: MONTEVERDE - MANUEL ANTONIO
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. After check-out, set off on your journey to Manuel Antonio, one of Costa Rica’s most stunning beach destinations (approx. 3 hours).
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time, relax by the pool, explore the town, or take a stroll along the breathtaking beaches.
Nestled along the central Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is a charming oceanside village known for its lush tropical surroundings, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity. Despite its small size, the area offers an incredible mix of relaxation, adventure, and wildlife encounters. The highlight of this region is Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most biodiverse parks in the world, where you can spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and more amidst the lush rainforest that meets the coastline.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight in Manuel Antonio
DAY 9: MANUEL ANTONIO
Enjoy a leisurely day to explore the incredible natural beauty of Manuel Antonio at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the region’s stunning biodiversity with a hike through Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most renowned protected areas. As you walk along its scenic trails, keep an eye out for playful monkeys, slow-moving sloths, colourful toucans, and vibrant butterflies.
The park’s breathtaking beaches, with their white sand and turquoise waters, offer the perfect spot to relax after your adventure. For those seeking more thrills, Manuel Antonio offers exciting outdoor activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, surfing, or a catamaran tour along the coast. If relaxation is your priority, simply unwind on the beach, soak up the tropical sun, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this spectacular coastal paradise.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight in Manuel Antonio
DAY 10: MANUEL ANTONIO - SAN JOSE - DEPARTURE
Savour a final breakfast at the hotel, then check out and begin your journey back to the car rental office near SJO Airport (approx. 3 hours). Drive to the car rental office in Belén, located near SJO Airport. Once there, return your vehicle and complete the necessary paperwork. After returning the car, a shared shuttle will transport you from the car rental office to the airport, ensuring a smooth transition for your flight back home.
Please note: We recommend booking departure flights after 3:00 PM to ensure a smooth travel experience.
- Breakfast included
11,13,15 AND 19 NIGHT TOUR
Opt for an 11, 13, 15, or 19 night tour and extend your stay in Costa Rica by adding 2, 4, 6, or 8 extra nights in Manuel Antonio.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
Throughout your journey, you’ll have the flexibility to choose between comfortable Standard hotels or indulge in the elegance of Superior accommodations.
Standard hotels:
- San José: Auténtico Hotel (or similar)
- Tortuguero: Pachira Lodge (or similar)
- La Fortuna (Arenal): San Bosco Inn (or similar)
- Monteverde: Monteverde Country Lodge (or similar)
- Manuel Antonio: Plaza Yara Hotel (or similar)
Superior hotels:
- San José: Radisson Hotel (or similar)
- Tortuguero: Evergreen Lodge (or similar)
- La Fortuna (Arenal): Tilajari Hotel Resort (or similar)
- Monteverde: El Establo Hotel (or similar)
- Manuel Antonio: San Bada Resort & Spa (or similar)
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Single rooms available at an extra cost. Maximum room capacity: 2 adults or 2 adults + 1 child
Your dining choices
You’ll enjoy meals as per the itinerary. The offer includes daily breakfast and a full-board package, starting with lunch on Day 2 and ending with lunch on Day 4.
Your included extras —
3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.
Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.
Your optional excursions —
Hanging Bridges & Rainforest Walk
Embark on a memorable journey through a 600-acre private rainforest reserve. Explore forest trails and 16 suspended and hanging bridges. With an expert naturalist, discover diverse ecosystems and incredible biodiversity.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Hike – Night Tour
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at night with this unforgettable night tour led by expert naturalist guides.
Horseback Riding Adventure
Enjoy a horseback riding experience through the lush secondary rainforest near Manuel Antonio. Midway, take a refreshing break at a beautiful waterfall.
Your journey to Costa Rica —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Tortuguero
Hidden on the Northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Tortuguero is a remote paradise where dense rainforest, winding canals and untouched beaches create one of the country’s most extraordinary natural settings. Accessible only by boat or small aircraft, this protected region offers a deep immersion into Costa Rica’s wild side. Known as the “Amazon of Costa Rica”, Tortuguero National Park shelters an incredible concentration of wildlife, from monkeys and toucans to river turtles, caimans and vibrant tropical birds.
Must-sees:
- Tortuguero National Park: A vast network of canals and jungle trails home to remarkable biodiversity.
- Tortuguero Village: A small, colourful community offering shops, local eateries and an authentic Caribbean atmosphere.
- Sea Turtle Nesting Sites: From mid-July to mid-October, witness the unforgettable sight of turtles nesting and hatchlings making their way to the ocean.
- Playa Tortuguero: A long, wild beach perfect for sunrise walks and wildlife spotting.
Culinary culture:
Tortuguero’s cuisine blends Caribbean and Costa Rican flavours. Enjoy dishes such as coconut-infused rice and beans, fresh fish seasoned with local spices, or crispy patacones served with tangy salsas. Small local restaurants in Tortuguero Village offer simple, flavorful meals that highlight regional ingredients and traditional coastal cooking.
Dive deeper:
Beyond turtle watching, Tortuguero invites travellers to explore its serene waterways by kayak or guided boat. Glide silently through narrow canals shaded by overhanging jungle, where you may spot sloths, iguanas or herons perched along the banks. Hike through coastal forests, visit local conservation projects or take in the village’s relaxed pace. Nature dominates here — every sound, every ripple and every sunrise reveals the soul of this remote wilderness.
Good to know:
Tortuguero is located about 130 km north-east of San José, accessible by boat or small plane. The best time to visit for turtle nesting is mid-July to mid-October, but wildlife viewing is excellent year-round. The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
Monteverde
Perched high in the misty highlands of the Tilarán Mountains, Monteverde is one of Costa Rica’s most enchanting destinations, a cloud forest sanctuary where lush greenery, drifting fog and extraordinary biodiversity create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Known worldwide for its conservation efforts and rare ecosystems, this serene region offers a deep connection with nature. From hanging bridges suspended in the treetops to trails alive with exotic birds, orchids and wildlife, Monteverde is a place where every step feels like an encounter with the magic of the rainforest.
Must-sees:
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: A world-renowned protected area filled with hummingbirds, quetzals, orchids and ancient trees veiled in mist.
- Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve: A quieter alternative offering intimate wildlife experiences and sweeping views over the Arenal Volcano on clear days.
- Selvatura Park: Home to canopy tours, hanging bridges and lush botanical gardens.
- Monteverde Butterfly Gardens: A colourful experience showcasing native butterflies, insects and arachnids.
- Curi-Cancha Reserve: A favourite among birdwatchers for its tranquil trails and abundant species.
Culinary culture:
The gastronomy of Monteverde reflects Costa Rica’s fresh, simple and flavourful cuisine. Enjoy local dishes such as casado with grilled meats or fish, gallo pinto for breakfast, and farm-fresh vegetables grown in the region’s fertile soil. Artisan cafés serve rich Costa Rican coffee sourced from nearby plantations, while small restaurants – known as sodas – offer comforting home-style meals influenced by both mountain and coastal traditions.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its famous cloud forests, Monteverde invites travellers to embrace a slower rhythm and discover the area’s unique character. Visit sustainable farms to learn about coffee, cacao and sugarcane production, or join night walks where the forest reveals a completely different world of nocturnal creatures. Thrill-seekers can glide along some of the world’s longest ziplines, while nature lovers can explore quiet trails listening to birdsong carried on the cool mountain breeze. Small arts and craft studios in Santa Elena add a charming cultural touch to the region’s natural appeal.
Good to know:
Monteverde is accessible via a scenic, mountainous road and is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes from Liberia Airport or 3 hours from San José by car. The best time to visit is from December to April for drier conditions, though the cloud forest retains its mystical beauty year-round thanks to its frequent mist. The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
Manuel Antonio
Set along Costa Rica’s lush Pacific coastline, Manuel Antonio is a captivating blend of pristine beaches, emerald rainforest and abundant wildlife. Often regarded as one of the country’s most beautiful coastal regions, it offers a harmonious balance between natural serenity and lively seaside charm. Here, monkeys swing through the treetops, sloths nap in the shade and scarlet macaws cross the sky above turquoise bays. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on soft sands or adventure in dense jungle, Manuel Antonio invites travellers into a world where nature is always centre stage.
Must-sees:
- Manuel Antonio National Park: A world-famous reserve combining white-sand beaches, rainforest trails and exceptional wildlife viewing.
- Playa Manuel Antonio: A sheltered beach with calm turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
- Playa Espadilla: A long, sweeping stretch of sand perfect for surfing, sunset strolls and relaxing under the palm trees.
- Quepos: A lively nearby town known for its marina, local markets and vibrant dining scene.
- Cathedral Point: A scenic natural landform offering breathtaking coastal views from inside the national park.
Culinary culture:
The cuisine of Manuel Antonio highlights fresh Pacific seafood and the flavours of traditional Costa Rican cooking. Enjoy grilled mahi-mahi or red snapper served with coconut rice, tangy ceviche marinated in lime, or comforting classics like casado and patacones. Ocean-view restaurants offer elegant dining at sunset, while local sodas provide authentic home-style dishes full of warmth and flavour.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its iconic beaches, Manuel Antonio offers unforgettable experiences that immerse you in its tropical world. Glide through mangrove forests on a kayaking excursion, hike shaded jungle paths in search of three-toed sloths, or join a guided night walk to encounter the forest’s nocturnal creatures. Offshore, catamaran cruises reveal hidden coves and playful dolphins, while zipline adventures invite you to soar above the canopy. For a moment of calm, yoga sessions overlooking the ocean or spa treatments surrounded by nature offer pure rejuvenation.
Good to know:
Manuel Antonio is located about 2 hours 45 minutes from San José by car, accessible via well-maintained coastal roads. The best time to visit is from December to April for sunny weather, though the green season from May to November brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds. The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
