Rainforests & Volcanoes
Costa Rica: Rainforests & Volcanoes
Overview
Welcome to Costa Rica, a natural paradise in the heart of Central America! This small but amazingly diverse country is known for its rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, paradisiacal Caribbean and Pacific beaches, active volcanoes, tropical rainforests and a warm and welcoming culture. With its national motto “Pura Vida,” this itinerary is designed to discover the best of the country, from exciting outdoor activities to relaxing moments in unique natural settings.
Trip Highlights
- Boat transfer through the canals to Tortuguero National Park
- Guided wildlife boat tours and a night tour spotting nocturnal animals in Tortuguero
- Arenal Volcano hike, La Fortuna Waterfall and natural hot springs
- Taxi-boat crossing of Lake Arenal to Monteverde
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and hanging bridge canopy tour
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in San José
Pure life! A warm welcome to this beautiful country, full of exuberant nature, paradisiacal beaches and friendly people. Upon arrival at San José airport, a representative will accompany you on your transfer to the hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2
San José — Tortuguero
Breakfast at the hotel. Early in the morning, depart for the Caribbean coast to Tortuguero — a scenic drive through lush countryside followed by a boat transfer through the canals. Check into your hotel, then explore Tortuguero Village in the afternoon and learn about its (seasonal) turtle conservation programs.
Day 3
Tortuguero National Park Exploration
Breakfast at the hotel. A full day exploring Tortuguero National Park — guided boat tours along the canals observing monkeys, sloths, toucans and caimans, short forest trail hikes to learn about local flora and fauna, and a night tour to spot nocturnal animals.
Day 4
Tortuguero to Arenal
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer back by boat and van to La Fortuna, home of the Arenal Volcano, enjoying scenic views of rural Costa Rica along the way. Check into your hotel and relax, or enjoy nearby hot springs.
Day 5
Full-Day Arenal Volcano Hike and La Fortuna Waterfall
Breakfast at the hotel. A guided hike in Arenal Volcano National Park through ancient lava fields and rainforest trails, learning about volcanic activity, local plants and wildlife. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall, descend to the base for a swim, and enjoy a typical Costa Rican lunch, ending the day relaxing in hot springs surrounded by tropical gardens.
Day 06
Arenal to Monteverde
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Monteverde via taxi-boat across Lake Arenal, enjoying scenic lake and mountain views, then continue by road to Monteverde. Optional evening tour: Monteverde Night Walk, a guided nocturnal wildlife tour.
Day 07
Monteverde Cloud Forest Exploration and Hanging Bridges
Breakfast at the hotel. A morning guided tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, walking misty trails spotting quetzals, toucans and other exotic birds, followed by a hanging bridge tour crossing suspended bridges high above the forest canopy. The afternoon is free to explore Monteverde town and its local shops.
Day 08
Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer back to San José Airport for your departure flight.
Hotels Included
- San JoséModerate: Sheraton San José Hotel, Std city view · Deluxe: Crowne Plaza San José, Double std
- TortugueroModerate: Mawamba Lodge, Std garden view · Deluxe: El Deseo Serendipity Hotel, Deluxe room
- ArenalModerate: Arenal Country Inn, Std double room · Deluxe: Hotel Magic Mountain, Junior Suite
- MonteverdeModerate: Cala Lodge, Junior Suite · Deluxe: El Establo Mountain, Manakin Suite
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Private transfer in/out
- Boat tickets included
- Seat-In-Coach (SIC) tours
- Bilingual guide on each tour
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation at selected hotels with daily breakfast
- 7 x Breakfast
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Bank transfer or credit card fees
- Meals, beverages, tours, and transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry
- Tips and gratuities
- Visa
- Travel insurance
- City taxes
Optional Add-Ons
- Monteverde Night Walk tour — $45 per person, shared
Important Notes
- Check-in 3:00–4:00 PM, check-out 11:00 AM; breakfast served 7:00–9:30 AM (may vary by hotel).
- Children aged 1–10 are considered children; guests over 10 are counted as adults.
- Rates are based on a minimum of 2 passengers travelling together and are subject to availability.
- Package validity: until December 31, 2026. Not available during Carnival, December holidays, or public holidays in South America.
- Payment terms: 25% deposit at booking, 50% due 60 days prior to travel, balance due 45 days prior.
- Cancellation: 25% fee at 60+ days; 50% at 59–45 days; 100% within 44 days or no-show.
Explore More
Related South America Journeys
