We Love —
- Experiencing Costa Rica in all its beauty and fullness, witnessing the country's incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches and epic volcanoes.
- Visiting the quaint and peaceful Tortuguero Village which offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Soaking up the sun and relaxing on the golden sands of Tamarindo Beach, a lush paradise located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Customer reviews —
What an incredible diversity throughout this itinerary, from lush jungle to the lunar landscapes surrounding Arenal Volcano, before unwinding on dreamy tropical beaches… all within such a small country. An unforgettable adventure awaits.
Your itinerary in brief —
Discover the natural wonders of Costa Rica on a 12-night journey designed to showcase the country’s most iconic landscapes. Enhance your adventure by adding 2, 4 or 6 additional nights at your final hotel for an extended beach escape.
Navigate the wildlife-rich canals of Tortuguero, a remote sanctuary where rainforest, waterways and biodiversity intertwine. Soak in the healing thermal waters of Arenal, set at the foot of its striking volcano. Wander through the mist-covered cloud forests of Monteverde, home to rare species and extraordinary plant life. Finally, unwind on the golden shores of Tamarindo Beach, where warm Pacific waves and laid-back coastal charm create an idyllic finale to your trip.
Choose the length of your stay:
14, 16 and 18 night tour
You can extend your stay in Costa Rica by adding 2, 4 or 6 extra nights at Tamarindo Beach, giving you more time to enjoy its coastline, nature activities and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Your itinerary in detail —
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SAN JOSÉ
Welcome to Costa Rica and its vibrant capital San José, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by a local representative before a private transfer takes you to your hotel. Settle into your room and enjoy a peaceful first evening in the capital.
- Private transfer from the airport
- Overnight stay in San José
DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ → TORTUGUERO
Your journey begins at dawn as you travel toward Tortuguero, one of Costa Rica’s most fascinating wildlife regions. After a stop in Guápiles for breakfast, continue to the pier and board a boat that navigates through rainforest canals, offering an early glimpse of the area’s lush biodiversity.
On arrival at your lodge, enjoy lunch before joining your guide for a visit to Tortuguero Village, a colourful community set between the waterways and the Caribbean Sea.
- Early morning departure
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Boat transfer to Tortuguero
- Visit Tortuguero Village, known for its lush natural beauty and vibrant wildlife, the village offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can explore winding canals, pristine beaches, and the nearby Tortuguero National Park
- Overnight stay in Tortuguero
DAY 3: TORTUGUERO
This morning, explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park, one of the most biodiverse environments in Central America. Your naturalist guide will help you spot monkeys, exotic birds, caimans and many other species as you navigate this exceptional ecosystem.
Leisure time in the afternoon to relax or enjoy the lodge’s surroundings.
- Morning canal tour in Tortuguero National Park
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Overnight stay in Tortuguero
DAY 4: TORTUGUERO → ARENAL
Next stop, Arenal. Located in northern Costa Rica, this region is famous for the iconic Arenal Volcano, which dominates the landscape. The area blends adventure and relaxation, offering hiking trails, natural hot springs and remarkable wildlife experiences within Arenal Volcano National Park.
Its lush surroundings and dramatic views make it a favourite among nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
- Breakfast and lunch included
- Depart for Guapiles, a small town located in the Caribbean region of Costa Rica, known as a gateway to the country's lush rainforests and wildlife
- Transfer by boat and road to Guápiles, then onward to Arenal
- Overnight stay in Arenal
DAY 5: ARENAL
Enjoy a relaxing morning or opt for one of the many activities available (at additional cost) in the Arenal region, from horseback riding at Don Paco to white-water rafting or hot-springs experiences.
Later, visit the impressive Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most recognised natural landmarks, offering panoramic views over ancient lava fields and rainforest scenery.
- Breakfast included
- Guided visit of Arenal Volcano
- Overnight stay in Arenal
DAY 6: ARENAL
Spend the day at leisure enjoying the landscapes of Arenal. Optional excursions are available (at additional cost), including nature hikes, ziplining, waterfall visits, or relaxation in the region’s famous thermal waters.
- Breakfast included
- Morning at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion)
- Overnight stay in Arenal
DAY 7: ARENAL → MONTEVERDE
Today, travel into the highlands to reach Monteverde, nestled within one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated cloud forests. Known for its rich biodiversity, the region is ideal for exploring suspension bridges, nature trails, and wildlife-rich habitats. Its cool misty environment creates a serene escape perfect for birdwatching and discovering conservation efforts.
- Breakfast included
- Transfer to Monteverde
- Afternoon at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion - choose from an array of exciting excursions such as a canopy zipline tour or a hanging bridges tour)
- Overnight stay in Monteverde
DAY 8: MONTEVERDE
This morning, discover the beauty of Monteverde from above during a Hanging Bridges tour. As you walk safely through the treetops, you may encounter monkeys, sloths, colourful birds and a wide variety of tropical plants. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore the cloud forest or join an optional excursion.
- Breakfast included
- Hanging bridges tour: safely stroll through the treetops, where you can spot monkeys, sloths, exotic birds, and vibrant plant life
- Afternoon at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion)
- Overnight stay in Monteverde
DAY 9: MONTEVERDE → TAMARINDO
Now it’s time to swap the cloud forest for coastal sunshine as you travel to Tamarindo, a lively beach town known for its golden sands, surf-friendly waves and relaxed ambiance. The area offers excellent dining options, boutique shops and a wide variety of activities such as snorkelling and wildlife tours.
- Breakfast included
- Transfer to Tamarindo Beach
- Afternoon at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion such as a thrilling ATV (quad) tour through the forest, or a stunning catamaran tour along the coast)
- Overnight stay in Tamarindo
DAY 10 & 11: TAMARINDO
Enjoy two long, easy-going days by the ocean. Tamarindo is ideal for relaxation, but also offers countless optional activities, from surfing lessons and sunset cruises to wildlife encounters and adventure excursions.
- Breakfast included
- Days at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion)
- Overnight stays in Tamarindo
DAY 12: TAMARINDO → SAN JOSÉ
This morning, return to San José for the final night of your tour. Travellers opting for the 14-, 16- or 18-night tour will instead enjoy additional leisure days in Tamarindo before making their way back to the capital.
- Breakfast included
- Transfer to San José
- Overnight stay in San José
DAY 13: SAN JOSÉ - DEPARTURE
Your Costa Rican journey comes to an end today. After breakfast, take your included transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
- Breakfast included
- Shared transfers to the airport
14, 16 OR 18 NIGHT TOUR
If you choose the extended 14-, 16- or 18-night tour, the following additional days will take place in Tamarindo Beach, allowing you to enjoy more time on the Pacific coast at your own pace.
Days 1–9 follow the 12-night itinerary.
DAYS 12–13 or 12–15 or 12–17: TAMARINDO BEACH EXTENSION
Spend these serene days enjoying the comforts of your hotel and the relaxed coastal atmosphere of Tamarindo. Whether you prefer unwinding on the beach, taking a refreshing swim, or joining optional excursions such as catamaran cruises, surfing lessons or wildlife tours, the area offers something for every traveller.
- Breakfasts included
- Overnights in Tamarindo
DAY 14 or 16 or 18: TAMARINDO → SAN JOSÉ
This morning, return to San José for the final night of your tour. Travellers opting for the 14-, 16- or 18-night tour will instead enjoy additional leisure days in Tamarindo before making their way back to the capital.
- Breakfast included
- Transfer to San José
- Overnight stay in San José
DAY 15 or 17 or 19: SAN JOSÉ - DEPARTURE
Your Costa Rican journey comes to an end today. After breakfast, take your included transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
- Breakfast included
- Shared transfers to the airport
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 will stay in a selection of carefully curated hotels chosen for their comfort, character and excellent location.
Your hotels:
San José: Barceló San José 4*, Radisson San José 4* or similar (Standard Room)
Tortuguero: Laguna Lodge, Pachira Lodge or similar (Standard Room)
Arenal: Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa, Arenal Country Inn, Magic Mountain Hotel, Lomas del Volcán or similar (Standard Room)
Monteverde: Almore Monteverde, Los Cipreses, Country Lodge or similar (Standard Room)
Tamarindo Beach: Wyndham Tamarindo 4* or similar (Standard Room)
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: 3 adults or 2 adults + 2 child
Your dining choices
This offer is based on a bed and breakfast stay excluding Day 2 & 3 in Tortuguero where guests can look forward to a full board stay (excludes drinks).
Your optional excursions —
Half day horse riding in Don Paco
Saddle up for an unforgettable horseback adventure through lush tropical forest trails, across hilltop pastures with sweeping views of Arenal Volcano and Lake, and over a suspension bridge, all while soaking in the vibrant sights, sounds, and energy of nature.
Half day Catamaran trip
Set sail on a sun-drenched catamaran adventure in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where morning calm unveils playful dolphins, majestic whales, and glimmering stingrays, topped off with snorkelling, fishing, and a tempting buffet brunch against a backdrop of stunning Pacific vistas.
Peñas Blancas Safari Boat
Cruise the Peñas Blancas River in a boat safari, spotting crocodiles, exotic birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Expert guides provide information about the local ecosystem and conservation.
Night walk
Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour night walk through the Agutí Reserve, exploring torch-lit forest trails in search of sloths, armadillos, olingos, and other nocturnal wildlife, while enjoying the reserve’s pristine conservation setting.
Estuary Safari
Glide through the serene mangroves of Las Baulas National Park on a two-hour boat safari, spotting monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas, colourful birds, and more, guided by a local expert who brings the vibrant ecosystem to life.
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).
Tamarindo
Located on the sun-drenched Pacific coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s most vibrant beach destinations. With its golden sands, warm turquoise waters and lively yet laid-back atmosphere, it offers the perfect setting for a tropical escape. Whether you’re looking to surf gentle waves, explore marine life or simply unwind under swaying palms, Tamarindo delivers a seamless blend of relaxation, adventure and coastal charm.
Must-sees:
- Tamarindo Beach: A long stretch of soft sand ideal for swimming, surfing lessons and sunset walks.
- Playa Langosta: A quieter neighbouring beach with dramatic tides and beautiful tide pools.
- Las Baulas National Marine Park: A protected reserve known for its sea turtle nesting sites.
- Estuary Boat Tours: Explore the mangroves of the Tamarindo Estuary, home to crocodiles, birds and monkeys.
- Catalina Islands: A top spot for scuba diving with manta rays and colourful marine life.
Culinary culture:
The gastronomy in Tamarindo blends fresh coastal flavours with Costa Rica’s multicultural influences. Enjoy ceviche, grilled mahi-mahi, fish tacos and classic casados, served with plantains and tropical salads. Trendy cafés offer smoothies, speciality coffee and vegan dishes, while fine-dining restaurants highlight elegant seafood plates and farm-to-table cuisine. Beachfront dining at sunset is one of Tamarindo’s signature pleasures.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the beach, Tamarindo invites exploration and memorable experiences. Try kayaking along the coast, join a sailing excursion across pristine bays, or take a horseback ride through nearby forests. The surrounding landscape is rich with wildlife, from howler monkeys and iguanas to vibrant tropical birds. Nearby beaches such as Avellanas, Conchal and Flamingo offer quieter escapes, while surf enthusiasts can explore world-class breaks up and down the coast.
Good to know:
Tamarindo is located about 1 hour from Liberia Airport by car, making it one of the most accessible beach towns in Costa Rica. The best time to visit is from December to April, when sunny, dry weather offers ideal conditions for beach activities. The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
