We love —
- Soaking in hot springs in La Fortuna, feeling mineral warmth, hearing rainforest wildlife, and enjoying volcanic tranquillity.
- Walking trails in Sarapiquí’s La Tirimbina Reserve, sensing humidity, tasting local cacao, and absorbing rich biodiversity.
- Cycling along beaches in Puerto Viejo, tasting coconut flavours, watching turquoise waves, and embracing relaxed coastal rhythms.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected for our members by our experts
Your itinerary in brief —
Duration: 9, 10, 12, 14, 16 or 18 nights
Best for: Cultural immersion
Pace: Relaxed
Explore Costa Rica
Embark on a road journey through Costa Rica’s most captivating contrasts, from volcanic landscapes and steaming rainforest in Arenal to the lush, wildlife-rich jungles of Sarapiquí. Continue towards the Caribbean coast, where Puerto Viejo unfolds with palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters, and a relaxed Afro-Caribbean rhythm. This is a journey defined by nature, colour, and texture, with each region revealing a different side of the country’s untamed beauty.
9-night itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival in San José
- Day 2: San José → La Fortuna, Arenal
- Day 3: La Fortuna, Arenal
- Day 4: La Fortuna, Arenal → Sarapiquí
- Day 5: Sarapiquí
- Day 6: Sarapiquí → Puerto Viejo, Limón
- Day 7: Puerto Viejo, Limón
- Day 8: Puerto Viejo, Limón
- Day 9: Puerto Viejo, Limón → San José
- Day 10: Departure from San José
For longer tours, enjoy an additional 1 to 9 nights in Puerto Viejo to extend your stay along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast and experience its relaxed tropical rhythm at a gentler pace.
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 JOSÉ
Your Costa Rican escape begins in San José, nestled within the country’s verdant Central Valley and framed by distant volcanic peaks. After landing at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), meet your local representative and enjoy a smooth private transfer through the capital’s lively streets and tropical surroundings. The evening invites you to slow down, settle into your hotel, and savour the first moments of this journey through rainforest landscapes and Caribbean shores.
Included:
- Private transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
- Night at Country Inn & Suites San José or Radisson Hotel San José
DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ → LA FORTUNA, ARENAL
After breakfast, begin your journey towards La Fortuna, where rainforest-covered hills and fertile landscapes stretch beneath the distant outline of Arenal Volcano. Travelling at your own pace by hire car, the route offers glimpses of local life, roadside fruit stalls, and vibrant tropical scenery along the way. As the volcano slowly comes into view, the atmosphere shifts into something calmer and more elemental, surrounded by warm air and dense greenery. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the region.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Car hire delivery at your hotel in San José
- Night at Tilajari Eco Resort Hotel or Arenal Manoa Resort
DAY 3: LA FORTUNA, ARENAL
Wake to the sounds of the rainforest and views of Arenal Volcano rising above the surrounding greenery. Today is free to explore La Fortuna at your own pace, whether discovering jungle trails, waterfalls, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the region. By evening, unwind in natural volcanic hot springs nestled amongst tropical gardens, where warm mineral waters provide a deeply relaxing experience surrounded by nature.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Visit to the natural hot springs
- Night at Tilajari Eco Resort Hotel or Arenal Manoa Resort
DAY 4: LA FORTUNA, ARENAL → SARAPIQUI
Leaving the volcanic landscapes of Arenal behind, continue your self-drive journey through Costa Rica’s lush northern region towards Sarapiquí. The route passes dense rainforest, winding rivers, and quiet rural scenery before arriving in one of the country’s richest ecological areas. Surrounded by tropical vegetation and birdsong, Sarapiquí offers a slower pace and an immersive connection with nature.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at La Quinta de Sarapiqui Lodge or Aranwa Sarapiquí Lodge
DAY 5: SARAPIQUI
After breakfast, discover the extraordinary biodiversity of Sarapiquí with a self-guided walk through the rainforest trails of La Tirimbina Biological Reserve. Crossing the suspension bridge above the river, venture deeper into a landscape filled with exotic birds, dense tropical foliage, and the gentle sounds of nature. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the region.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Self-guided walk in the Sarapiquí area of the La Tirimbina Biological Reserve
- Night at La Quinta de Sarapiqui Lodge or Aranwa Sarapiquí Lodge
DAY 6: SARAPIQUÍ → PUERTO VIEJO, LIMÓN
Leaving the rainforest of Sarapiquí, your journey continues towards Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, where the landscape gradually shifts from dense jungle to palm-fringed lowlands. The drive leads you through vibrant rural scenery and tropical plantations before reaching Puerto Viejo, a laid-back coastal town known for its turquoise waters and Afro-Caribbean spirit. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and feel the rhythm of the Caribbean begin to unfold.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Shawandha Hotel or Almendros & Corales Hotel
DAYS 7 & 8: PUERTO VIEJO, LIMÓN
Two days unfold along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast in Puerto Viejo, where palm-fringed beaches and emerald jungle create a striking natural harmony. Mornings can be spent swimming in warm, clear waters or exploring Cahuita National Park, while afternoons drift between shaded cafés, cycling routes, and quiet stretches of sand. The region’s Afro-Caribbean heritage adds rhythm and colour to every corner, from music in the streets to flavours in local cuisine.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Shawandha Hotel or Almendros & Corales Hotel
DAY 9: PUERTO VIEJO, LIMÓN → SAN JOSÉ
Leaving the laid-back rhythm of Puerto Viejo behind, travel inland through Costa Rica’s ever-changing scenery, from tropical coastline to fertile valleys and mountain-framed roads. The drive offers a final immersion in the country’s natural diversity, with glimpses of rainforest and rural life along the way. Arriving in San José, settle into the capital’s calmer evening atmosphere and prepare for your departure the following day.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Country Inn & Suites San José or Radisson Hotel San José
DAY 10: DEPARTURE FROM SAN JOSÉ
Enjoy a relaxed final morning in San José, with time to savour your last breakfast and the calm atmosphere of the capital. When ready, travel towards Juan Santamaría International Airport, crossing the surrounding valleys and green hills one final time. The journey marks a gentle farewell to Costa Rica, leaving behind memories of rainforest, volcanoes, and Caribbean coastlines.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Shared transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
For longer tours, enjoy an additional 1 to 9 nights in Puerto Viejo to extend your stay along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast and experience its relaxed tropical rhythm at a gentler pace.
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
At each of your stops, you will be staying in thoughtfully selected Superior or Superior ++ hotels.
Your Superior hotels (or similar):
- San José: Country Inn & Suites (Standard Room)
- Arenal: Tilajari Eco Resort Hotel (Classic Room)
- Sarapiquí: La Quinta de Sarapiquí Lodge (Standard Room)
- Puerto Viejo, Limón: Shawandha Hotel (Bungalow Standard Room)
Your Superior++ hotels (or similar):
- San José: Radisson Hotel (Standard Room)
- Arenal: Arenal Manoa Resort (Junior Suite Room)
- Sarapiquí: Aranwa Sarapiquí Lodge (Standard Room)
- Puerto Viejo, Limón: Almendros & Corales Hotel (Standard Room)
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
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.
Optional extras —
Stay connected with an additional 20 GB of mobile internet data
Add an extra 20 GB of internet data to stay connected without exceeding your plan. Activate your eSIM and enjoy connectivity wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with your loved ones, find the best restaurants nearby, and use your GPS with peace of mind.
Please note: 20 GB of internet data represents approximately 250 hours of additional web browsing/audio streaming or 20 to 30 hours of additional video streaming/social media/video calls.
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 destination —
Costa Rica
Nestled in Central America, Costa Rica is a haven for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its motto La Pura Vida (the pure life), the country charms visitors with its lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Offering a blend of adventure and tranquillity, Costa Rica invites you to discover its natural treasures.
Must-see:
- Arenal Volcano: Experience hot springs and dramatic volcanic scenery.
- Guanacaste: This a sun-drenched province in Costa Rica, is renowned for its golden beaches, biodiverse dry forests, and serene volcanic landscapes, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Manuel Antonio National Park: Compact yet teeming with wildlife, it’s a perfect blend of beaches and trails.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest: A mist-laden paradise, home to rare flora and fauna.
Culinary Culture:
Costa Rican cuisine emphasises freshness and simplicity. Staples include gallo pinto, a breakfast dish of rice and beans, and casado, a hearty meal of protein, rice, and salad. Don't miss a cup of locally grown coffee, often paired with traditional pastries such as tamal asado. Tropical fruits like guava and rambutan are abundant and a must-try.
Dive Deeper:
For those keen to explore off the beaten path, visit the Nicoya Peninsula, part of a Blue Zone renowned for longevity. Learn about Costa Rica’s indigenous cultures, such as the Bribri, who excel in sustainable farming and chocolate-making traditions. Adventure-seekers can traverse less-travelled trails in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, with its bubbling mud pools and waterfalls.
Good to Know:
The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), though US dollars are widely accepted. The dry season (December to April) is ideal for travel, but the green season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Getting around is easiest by rental car or domestic flights for remote regions.
