8-21 night road trip: Pura Vida Jungle & Beach Escape - Tortuguero - Up to 70% off | Voyage Privé

Irresistible offers on inspirational holidays, exclusively for our members.

Every day, irresistible holiday offers, for members only

We Love

  • Gliding along Tortuguero’s misty canals, spotting howler monkeys and tropical birds framed by the soft morning light, while the rainforest hums with life.
  • Admiring the dramatic peaks of Arenal Volcano breathing in the rich scent of rainforest and volcanic earth, and listening to the symphony of birds around us.
  • Soaking in the golden sun on Sámara’s tranquil beaches and watching the sky melt into vivid shades of pink and orange at sunset.

New Voyage Privé

Carefully selected by our experts especially for you

Your itinerary in brief

Embark on a 9-day adventure through Costa Rica’s vibrant landscapes, where emerald rainforests, mist-shrouded volcanoes, and golden beaches create a living tapestry of wonder. Travel from San José to Tortuguero’s tranquil canals, gliding along misty waterways and watching monkeys, birds, and other wildlife stir with the sunrise.

 

From there, wander Arenal’s volcanic peaks and verdant forests, where hidden trails meander through lush greenery and the air is rich with the scent of tropical blooms. Conclude your journey on the soft, golden sands of Samara, where the Pacific waves lap gently beneath the sun.

 

Choose the length of your stay:

 

8 night tour:

Day 1: San José

Day 2: San José → Tortugero

Day 3: Tortugero

Day 4: Tortugero → Arenal 

Day 5: Arenal

Day 6: Arenal → Samara

Day 7: Samara

Day 8: Samara

Day 9: Samara → San José - Departure 

 

Enhance your journey with an additional 1 to 13 nights in Samara, allowing more time to soak in the golden beaches, gentle waves, and tranquil coastal charm of this seaside paradise.

 

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

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SAN JOSE

Arrive at San José International Airport and meet your driver for a transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, giving you time to settle in and gently ease into the rhythm of Costa Rica before your journey begins.

 

  • Overnight in San José

 

 

DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ → TORTUGUERO

 

After an early check-out, embark on a shared transfer towards the lush Caribbean lowlands. Stop in Guápiles for a colourful Costa Rican breakfast featuring fresh tropical fruits and local flavours.

 

Continue towards the pier and board your boat to Tortuguero, gliding along serene canals framed by dense rainforest and abundant wildlife.

 

In the afternoon, explore Tortuguero Village with your guide, discovering its Caribbean heritage, vibrant houses, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

 

  • Overnight in Tortuguero
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

 

 

DAY 3: TORTUGUERO

 

Begin the day with a sunrise boat tour through Tortuguero’s mystical canals. As the morning mist lifts, look out for monkeys moving through the canopy, colourful birds emerging from their nests and the golden reflections dancing on the water.


Return to the lodge for breakfast, then enjoy the rest of the morning at leisure or simply relax and take in the sounds of the rainforest.

DAY 4: TORTUGUERO → ARENAL

DAY 4: TORTUGUERO → ARENAL

 

After breakfast and check-out, travel by boat along Tortuguero’s shimmering canals before continuing by road through lush rainforest scenery towards Guápiles, where a traditional Costa Rican lunch awaits.


There, meet your rental car representative and begin a beautiful drive towards La Fortuna, passing green highlands, rolling hills and peaceful rural villages before arriving at your hotel at the foot of the iconic Arenal Volcano.

 

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

 

  • Overnight in Arenal 
  • Breakfast & lunch included

 

 

DAY 5: ARENAL

 

Today, enjoy three exclusive nature-focused experiences included with your stay at Tilajari Eco Resort:

 

  • Morning birdwatching (6:00 am) – Join a naturalist guide for a peaceful sunrise walk through the resort’s gardens, observing the vibrant birdlife that thrives in this tropical environment.
  • Coffee tasting experience (2:00 pm) – Learn about Costa Rica’s coffee-growing traditions as you sample freshly brewed varieties and explore their aromas, textures and flavours.
  • Frog search excursion (6:00 pm) – At dusk, follow your guide into the hotel’s lush grounds to discover colourful tropical frogs and witness the rainforest come alive after dark.

 

Optional (extra cost): Ecotermales Hot Springs

Relax in naturally heated volcanic pools surrounded by tropical vegetation, the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

 

  • Overnight in Arenal 
  • Breakfast included

 

 

DAY 6: ARENAL→ SAMARA

 

After breakfast, begin your scenic self-drive from the misty landscapes surrounding Arenal Volcano toward the sunlit Pacific Coast. Travel through cloud forest, open countryside and charming rural towns as the scenery gradually shifts to palm trees, coastal breezes and warm tropical light.


Arrive in the laid-back seaside village of Sámara, where golden sands, calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere invite you to slow down and enjoy the rhythm of coastal life.

 

  • Overnight in Arenal 
  • Breakfast included

DAY 7: SAMARA

DAY 7: SAMARA

 

Today, enjoy your included excursion into the Werner Sauter Biological Reserve, home to one of Central America’s rare tropical dry forests. Follow your naturalist guide along the Samara Trails, discovering a remarkable ecosystem shaped by centuries of adaptation.

 

As you walk, observe unique vegetation, colourful birdlife and the fascinating wildlife that thrives in this sun-drenched environment, an intimate encounter with one of Guanacaste’s most exceptional natural treasures.

 

  • Overnight in Samara
  • Breakfast included

 

 

DAY 8: SAMARA

 

 

Spend a full day at leisure to embrace the gentle rhythm of Sámara. Relax on the beach, explore the village’s laid-back cafés and boutiques, or simply unwind by the pool.

 

Optional excursion (extra cost): Ocean Kayaking & Snorkelling – Chora Island

Paddle across calm turquoise waters to Chora Island, where a guided snorkelling session reveals vibrant marine life and tranquil hidden coves. A scenic and refreshing way to enjoy the Pacific coast.

 

  • Overnight in Samara
  • Breakfast included

 

 

DAY 9: SAMARA → SAN JOSE - DEPARTURE 

 

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive back to San José, tracing parts of the Pacific coastline before crossing rolling countryside and small traditional villages.

 

Upon arrival, return your rental car to the designated office near the airport, then take the shuttle transfer to your terminal for your departure flight, marking the end of your Costa Rican adventure.

 

  • Breakfast included

 

Enhance your journey with 1 to 13 additional nights in Sámara, giving you more time to enjoy its golden beaches, gentle waves and tranquil coastal charm, the perfect way to savour the pura vida lifestyle a little longer.

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
Just for you:

Hand-picked just for you

Throughout your tour, you’ll be accommodated in meticulously selected hotels, offering a perfect blend of comfort, quality, and charm (or similar):

 

San JoséSleep Inn Paseo Las Damas

Tortuguero: Evergreen Lodge

Arenal: Tilajari Resort

Samara:  Hotel Sol Samara 

 

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

Your dining choices

You will enjoy the following board basis:
  • Day 1: no meals included
  • Days 2 and 3: full board (drinks not included)
  • Day 4: breakfast and lunch (drinks not included)
  • Days 5 to 9: breakfast

 

If you extend your stay in Samara, breakfast will be included.

Your included extras

3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier

Your included extras

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

Kayaking and Snorkelling Excursion to Chora Island

Your optional excursions

Set off from the coast of Sámara on a guided kayaking and snorkelling adventure to the tranquil Chora Island.

Ecotermales Hot Springs

Your optional excursions

Discover natural serenity at Ecotermales Hot Springs, a peaceful haven surrounded by the lush rainforest of La Fortuna.

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).

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).

In more detail

Practical information about your trip:
This tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Pets are not permitted.
Your stay may be subject to an additional city or tourist tax payable directly to the hotel, which is not included in our nightly rate. Please check with hotel directly for further information.

Rates and times are indicative and are subject to change. Some facilities/services are subject to a surcharge, payable locally. General terms and conditions of sale apply.

 

The price includes:

  • Meals as per your itinerary, with daily breakfast and dinner on nights 2 and 3
  • Suzuki Vitara or similar car hire included for 6 says (with basic insurance)
  • Visit to Tortuguero Village
  • Visit to Tortuguero Canals with entrance fee included
  • -Tilajari Resort excursions: 
  • Morning birdwatching excursion
  • Coffee tasting experience
  • Guided frog search excursion
  • Guided walk on Samara Trails
  • Shared roundtrip airport transfers 
  • Inter-hotel transfers
  • Complimentary mobile internet data during your stay

 

The price does not include:

  • Services not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Excursions not mentioned in the itinerary 
  • Meals and Alcoholic drinks not mentioned in the itinerary 
  • Personal expenses, extras, and tips 

A warm welcome

We offer you a warm welcome to your holiday destination, and our partners are committed to ensuring your well-being.

If booking as a solo traveller, room type is not guaranteed. You may be placed in a single, double or twin room, based on availability.

You may be asked to provide a credit/debit card deposit on arrival to cover any purchases made at the hotel.

Although we endeavour to provide up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all hotel facilities and services will be available during your stay, especially when travelling out of the main holiday periods.

Star rating standards may differ to that of the UK, depending on the country of travel.

The location shown on our map is to be used as a guide only and the actual location of the property may differ.

Your contact details may be passed on to the hotel so that they can make contact with you to discuss your booking in advance of your arrival.

Car hire:

Car Hire Details

 

Vehicle Type:


For both Standard and Superior categories: Suzuki Vitara 4x2, suitable for 3–4 people.

 

Capacity:


Maximum of 4 passengers per car.

 

Driver Requirements:

  • Minimum age: 21 years
  • Valid driving licence: must be current at the time of presentation
  • Passport: valid for at least six months
  • Credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or American Express) in the driver’s name; debit cards are not accepted

 

Collection:


On Day 2, your rental car will be delivered directly to your hotel, allowing you to begin your journey with ease.

 

Return:


On the final day of the programme, please drive the vehicle to the car rental office in Belén, near Juan Santamaría International Airport. A shared shuttle will then transfer you from the rental office to the airport for your onward flight.

 

Conditions:

 

  • Pick-up at the airport: No
  • Return to the airport: No, vehicle must be returned to the Belén office
  • Unlimited mileage: Yes
  • 24-hour roadside assistance: Yes
  • Airport surcharge: No
  • Public liability: No
  • Theft insurance (with excess): Yes
  • Damage/accident insurance (with excess): Yes
  • VAT included: Yes

 

Additional Costs:

 

  • Additional driver: Not included
  • Baby/child/booster seats: Available at USD $8 per day; must be requested in advance
  • GPS: Available at USD $15 per day; must be requested in advance
  • Other additional conditions or services, including assistance for disabled persons, may be available for a supplement if arranged in advance

 

Fuel Policy:


The driver is responsible for refuelling the vehicle and must return it with the same fuel level as at collection.

 

Excess:


A deductible applies depending on the coverage purchased.

Your contract

If you book a package that includes flights, your contract will be with Voyage Privé. The air holiday package(s) shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 10170.

If you book a package that does not include flights, then ATOL protection does not apply. Your contract will be with the provider of the accommodation and not Voyage Privé. Voyage Privé acts only as an agent for the accommodation provider.

Please read our booking conditions before confirming your holiday. 

The Voyage Privé Promise

  • A unique selection of high-end accommodation
  • Exclusive perks and discounts of up to 70% off
  • For all inquiries, refer to our help centre available 24/7
Show moreShow less

Carefully selected travel offers

Our offers are distinguished by their quality and the level of their services.

- Curated offers carefully selected by our travel experts.

- We are world recognised in the tourism industry.

- We are constantly improving the quality of our offers, thanks to on-going feedback from our members.


Exclusive prices and discounts of up to 70% off

Our flash sales guarantee our members the best rates on the market.

- The 7-day flash sales can be extended or restocked in exceptional circumstances, when we have the opportunity to offer more available dates.

- We negotiate the best rates thanks to our highly regarded reputation and our evergrowing database of members.

- An exclusive discount based on the reference price provided by our partners and suppliers (maximum price advertised for a room and board basis, on a specific time period), guaranteed by means of contract for each sale.

- We offer reliable, responsive, high-quality service.


Quality service: informative, reliable & responsive

Our goal: to provide members with a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

- A simple, inspiring and innovative service, both on your computer and your mobile.

- On-site professional support for your queries.

- Our Customer Service team are available to support you before, during and after your trip.

  1. Voyage Privé
  2. Luxury holidays
  3. 8-21 night road trip: Pura Vida Jungle & Beach Escape