On this 12-night tour, you'll discover beautiful Costa Rica. Starting in Tortuguero, a remote paradise known for its thriving rainforests, winding canals, and diverse wildlife, then on to Arenal, famous for its volcano and hot springs.

Nature lovers and adventure seekers are sure to love Monteverde, where visitors can explore lush cloud forests. Then, as your journey draws to a close, relax on the stunning Tamarindo Beach, located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast.

Welcome to San José, the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, located in the Central Valley surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. San José also boasts a rich blend of modern and colonial architecture, making it a popular starting point for tourists. Your 12-night tour will begin here.

• Arrival & private transfer to your hotel
• Overnight stay in San José

DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ – TORTUGUERO 

Today, you'll travel to Tortuguero, a unique holiday destination located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, known for its lush rainforests, canals, and abundant wildlife, including sea turtles. We recommend exploring the Tortuguero National Park by boat, hiking through its diverse ecosystems, and enjoying the serene beaches. It's a popular spot for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, remote getaway.

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Complimentary lunch
• 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
• Complimentary dinner at the hotel
• Overnight stay in Tortuguero

DAY 3: TORTUGUERO 

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Canal tour, a unique opportunity to explore the lush waterways of Tortuguero, where visitors can glide through the canals and observe a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, turtles, and a variety of bird species
• Complimentary lunch
• Dinner at the hotel
• Overnight stay in Tortuguero

Next stop, Arenal. Located in northern Costa Rica, Arenal is famous for its iconic, active volcano, which dominates the landscape. The area offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, with activities such as hiking, hot springs, and wildlife viewing in the nearby Arenal Volcano National Park. The region’s lush surroundings and stunning views make it a popular destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

• Breakfast
• 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
• Complimentary lunch
• Transfer to Arenal 
• Overnight stay in Arenal 

DAY 5: ARENAL 

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Morning at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion - choose from an array of exciting excursions such as horseback riding in Don Paco or white water rafting)
• Visit Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica's most iconic and active volcanoes, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape
• Overnight stay in Arenal 

DAY 6: ARENAL

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Morning at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion)
• Overnight stay in Arenal 

DAY 7: ARENAL TO MONTEVERDE 

Monteverde, nestled in the cloud forests of Costa Rica, is known for its rich biodiversity. We suggest exploring hiking trails, suspension bridges, and zip-lining through the misty forest canopy. The area offers a serene escape with opportunities to experience unique wildlife, birdwatching, and conservation efforts.

• Breakfast
• 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 

• Breakfast
• 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 TO TAMARINDO

Now, time to sit back and relax by the ocean in Tamarindo, a vibrant beach town renowned for its beautiful sandy shores and excellent surf conditions. It offers a laid-back atmosphere with a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities, including surfing, snorkeling, and wildlife tours. 

• Breakfast
• 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 

• Breakfasts
• Days at leisure (at an additional cost, book an optional excursion)
• Overnight stays in Tamarindo

Day 12: TAMARINDO – SAN JOSÉ 

This morning, you'll head back to the capital, San José, for the final night of your tour. 

• Breakfast
• Transfer
• Overnight stay in San José

DAY 13: DEPARTURE

Today marks the end of your amazing Costa Rica adventure. After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, it'll be time to take your included roundtrip transfer to the airport for your departure flight home. 

Relax and unwind in the following hotels at each stage of your journey:

• San José: Barcelo San Jose 5* – Standard Room (or similar)
• Tortuguero: Laguna Lodge 3* – Standard Room (or similar)
• Arenal: Arenal Paraiso 3* – Standard Room (or similar)
• Monteverde: Country Lodge 3* – Classic Room (or similar)
• Tamarindo: Wyndham Tamarindo 4* – Standard Room (or similar)
   

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply. 

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.

Embark on a self-guided adventure through the treetops of Costa Rica’s largest forest on the Monteverde Suspension Bridges Tour, where eight expertly engineered bridges offer a safe and awe-inspiring way to explore the lush canopy.

Soar above the treetops on the only zipline tour built entirely within the cloud forest, offering an exhilarating flight through 4 kilometres of cables, 13 thrilling lines, and the optional adrenaline rush of the iconic Tarzan Swing.

Embark on an exciting ATV adventure through the lush tropical forests and mountains surrounding Tamarindo, where you’ll encounter wildlife and stunning views of Tamarindo Bay.

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.

San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is much more than just a gateway to the country’s famous jungles and coastlines; it’s a vibrant urban hub teeming with culture, colour, and charm. Nestled in the Central Valley and surrounded by majestic mountains, this city offers a perfect blend of history, art, and authentic Costa Rican lifestyle.

Must-sees:

• National Theatre of Costa Rica: An architectural gem in the heart of the city, the National Theatre showcases stunning neoclassical design and is a symbol of San José’s rich cultural scene. Catch a performance or simply admire the lavish interior and opulent frescoes.
• Museo del Oro Precolombino: Beneath the Plaza de la Cultura lies this treasure trove of pre-Columbian gold artefacts. It offers a fascinating insight into the country’s indigenous past and craftsmanship dating back centuries.
• Barrio Amón: One of San José’s most characterful neighbourhoods, Barrio Amón is a bohemian quarter dotted with colonial mansions, art galleries, and stylish cafés — perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploring.
• Mercado Central: For a dose of local life, head to this bustling indoor market. Sample traditional dishes like casado or gallo pinto, pick up handmade souvenirs, or just soak in the lively atmosphere.

Culinary Culture:

San José’s food scene celebrates bold flavours and local ingredients. Expect hearty dishes like olla de carne (a traditional beef stew), and tamales wrapped in banana leaves. Don’t miss fresh tropical fruits like mango, guava, and papaya sold on street corners. Pair your meal with locally grown coffee, some of the best in the world. A growing number of modern restaurants also offer farm-to-table menus, showcasing Costa Rica’s impressive biodiversity on the plate.

Dive Deeper:

San José is the perfect base to explore nearby natural wonders, think day trips to Poás Volcano, coffee plantation tours in the highlands, or visits to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Nature is never far away.

Back in town, dive into Costa Rica’s creative side by exploring the street art scattered throughout the city, or attending a live music event celebrating everything from marimba rhythms to contemporary folk.

Good to Know:

San José’s highland location gives it a pleasant, spring-like climate year-round. The city is safe and walkable, especially in the central districts. While Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Taxis are inexpensive, and Uber operates in the city, making it easy to get around. As the capital continues to grow in popularity, now is the time to experience its authentic charm before the crowds follow.