Jan
min : 15°C
max : 24°C
We love —
- Travelling from jungle canals to volcanic regions and coastal shores, with each destination offering a different perspective of the country.
- Experiencing the biodiversity of Tortuguero and Arenal, where wildlife, vegetation and natural sounds shape each moment.
- Ending the journey in Sámara, where slower days, ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere bring balance to the itinerary.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected for our members by our experts
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 7 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Moderate
Explore Costa Rica
Discover Costa Rica through a journey shaped by lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes and Pacific coastlines. From the winding canals of Tortuguero to the geothermal landscapes of Arenal, this itinerary combines wildlife encounters, natural immersion and moments of relaxation, before ending on the golden beaches of Sámara, where the rhythm slows and the ocean takes over.
Your 7-night road trip:
Day 1: Arrival in San José
Day 2: San José → Tortuguero
Day 3: Tortuguero
Day 4: Tortuguero → Arenal
Day 5: Arenal
Day 6: Arenal → Sámara
Day 7: Sámara
Day 8: Sámara → Departure from San José
By opting for the 8 to 21-night tour, you’ll extend your stay with extra nights in Sámara, offering more time to relax by the beach and explore the surrounding coastline at your own pace.
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
The freedom to explore:
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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 —
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SAN JOSÉ
Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), where you are welcomed and transferred to your hotel in San José. Settle in and take time to unwind after your journey, easing into the atmosphere of Costa Rica’s capital.
Included:
- Private arrival transfer
- Night in San José
DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ → TORTUGUERO (67 miles | 4h30)
Depart early from San José and travel towards Tortuguero, stopping en route in Guápiles for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast. Continue by boat through the canals, surrounded by dense rainforest. In the afternoon, visit Tortuguero Village with a local guide and discover its Caribbean character.
Included:
- Meals: Full board (excludes drinks)
- Shared transfer and boat transport
- Tortuguero Village tour (guide & transfers)
- Night in Tortuguero
DAY 3: TORTUGUERO
Begin the day with a sunrise boat tour through the Tortuguero canals, exploring the rainforest waterways with a guide. Keep an eye out for local wildlife while navigating through this natural environment. The rest of the day is at leisure at the lodge.
Included:
- Meals: Full board (excludes drinks)
- Tortuguero Canals tour (guide & entrance fee)
- Night in Tortuguero
DAY 4: TORTUGUERO → ARENAL (86 miles | 4h30)
After breakfast, travel by boat and road back to Guápiles for lunch. From here, collect your rental car and begin your self-drive journey towards Arenal. On arrival, check in and enjoy time at leisure at your hotel.
Included:
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Transfer Tortuguero → Guápiles
- Car hire (from Day 4)
- Night in Arenal
DAY 5: ARENAL
Spend the day discovering Arenal through a selection of included experiences, from morning birdwatching to a coffee tasting experience and an evening frog search
Included:
- Meals: Breakfast
- Morning birdwatching
- Coffee tasting experience
- Frog search
- Costa Rican cocktail experience
- Night in Arenal
Optional:
- Ecotermales Hot Springs
DAY 6: ARENAL → SÁMARA (140 miles | 4h30)
Drive from Arenal to the Pacific coast and Sámara. On arrival, check in and enjoy the relaxed coastal setting.
Included:
- Meals: Breakfast
- Car hire
- Night in Sámara
DAY 7: SÁMARA
Discover the region through the Sámara Trails hike, exploring the Werner Sauter Biological Reserve with a guide. The rest of the day is at leisure by the coast.
Included:
- Meals: Breakfast
- Sámara Trails hike (transport, guide, entrance fee, water, fruits & juice)
- 1 x bottle of wine during dinner at Nammbu Hotel
- Night in Sámara
DAY 8: SÁMARA → DEPARTURE FROM SAN JOSÉ (143 miles | 4h20)
Drive back to San José and return your rental car near the airport. A shuttle transfer will take you to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for departure.
Included:
- Meals: Breakfast
- Car hire return
- Departure transfer
You may extend your stay in Sámara for a total duration of up to 21 nights, allowing more time to enjoy the Pacific coast at your own 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 hotel —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in Standard Rooms in thoughtfully selected Superior hotels (or similar).
Superior hotels (or similar):
- San José: Four Points by Sheraton or Radisson Hotel
- Tortuguero: Pachira Lodge, Aninga Lodge or Evergreen Lodge
- Arenal: Tilajari Resort
- Sámara: Hotel Nammbu or Hotel Leyenda
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
The maximum capacity of the rooms is 2 adults + 1 child. Single rooms are available at an extra cost.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay with additional meals included during selected parts of the itinerary. From Day 2 to Day 3, enjoy a full board stay (excludes drinks), offering a more complete dining experience while in Tortuguero. From Day 4 to Day 8, the stay returns to a bed and breakfast basis, allowing greater flexibility to explore local dining options. If extending your stay in Sámara, you will continue to enjoy a bed and breakfast stay.
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 & 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.
Day 5: Ecotermales Hot Springs Experience
Unwind in the heart of nature with access to the Ecotermales hot springs, where a variety of natural thermal pools at different temperatures are set within lush tropical gardens.
Day 6: Ocean kayaking & snorkelling to Chora Island
Just off the coast of Sámara lies Chora Island, a true paradise of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. This kayaking and snorkelling excursion allows you to paddle easily to the island, where you can swim, snorkel and discover Costa Rica’s rich marine 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 —
San José
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.
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).
Sámara
Set on the sun-drenched Nicoya Peninsula, Sámara is one of Costa Rica’s most inviting coastal villages, a place where golden sands, calm Pacific waters and a relaxed, barefoot charm define the pace of life. Sheltered by a coral reef and lined with palm trees, Sámara Beach is known for its tranquil swimming conditions, gentle waves and family-friendly atmosphere. Surrounded by tropical forests, small offshore islands and local surf spots, Sámara offers a perfect balance of serenity and adventure on Costa Rica’s western coast.
Must-sees:
- Playa Sámara: A long, crescent-shaped beach ideal for swimming, kayaking and relaxed seaside days.
- Playa Carrillo: One of Costa Rica’s most beautiful undeveloped beaches, just minutes from Sámara.
Isla Chora: A small rocky island perfect for snorkelling and kayaking excursions. - Nosara: A nearby surf and yoga hub with a vibrant wellness scene.
- Werner Sauter Biological Reserve: A protected dry forest offering guided nature walks and birdwatching.
Culinary culture:
The cuisine in Sámara reflects the fresh, colourful flavours of the Pacific coast. Enjoy ceviche prepared with just-caught fish, grilled seafood, casados with plantains and rice, or tacos filled with mahi-mahi or shrimp. Beachfront restaurants offer sunset dining with ocean views, while local sodas serve comforting Costa Rican dishes rich in authenticity. Tropical fruits — mango, guava, pineapple and passion fruit — add a naturally sweet touch to every meal.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its beautiful beaches, Sámara invites deeper exploration. Try paddleboarding along the calm coastline, join a horseback ride at sunset, or explore hidden coves accessible only by kayak. The surrounding area is home to wildlife such as howler monkeys, iguanas, sea turtles and vibrant bird species. Inland, small rural communities reveal a quieter side of Costa Rican life, with artisanal shops, farmer’s markets and eco-tours that showcase the region’s rich biodiversity and traditions.
Good to know:
Sámara is located about 2 hours from Liberia Airport and 4 hours from San José by car. The best time to visit is from December to April, when sunny, dry weather creates ideal beach conditions. The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
