Classic Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Wildlife | Culture

Costa Rica's incredible natural highlights

15 days Ask us for pricing This is the price per person for a private tour (based on 2 people travelling) excluding international flights. Contact us for pricing for other group sizes including individuals.
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Intro, Dates & Prices

Intro

Delve into the incredible scenery and nature of Costa Rica on this enthralling tour of the country's spectacular highlights, as well as some hidden gems. Begin your tour in the bustling capital city of San José and explore some of its fascinating museums before making your first foray into nature at the imposing Irazú Volcano. Head into the wilderness of Tortuguero National Park, where turtles, sloths and monkeys are among the inhabitants waiting to greet you. Then, travel south through lush countryside to visit a family-run pineapple plantation before continuing your journey to the spectacular Arenal Volcano National Park. Enjoy views of the perfectly conical volcano and explore the national park, then take time to relax in the area's famous thermal springs. Recharged, continue your exploration of Costa Rica in the foothills of the towering Rincón de la Vieja Volcano - one of the country's most active. Your next stop is one of Costa Rica's most important private reserves, Monteverde Cloud Forest, where there are chances to spot the iconic quetzal bird. Take a tour that showcases Costa Rica's coffee, chocolate and sugarcane production, then travel south to your final stop, the spectacular Manuel Antonio National Park, for some of your final wildlife-spotting opportunities in Costa Rica. On your final day, either relax on the white-sand beaches or explore the mangroves on an optional tour.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Costa Rica's tallest volcano, the imposing Irazú
  • The former capital city of Costa Rica, Cartago
  • Wildlife and lush waterways of Tortuguero National Park
  • Imposing Arenal Volcano and the surrounding fertile landscape
  • One of Costa Rica's largest conservation areas, Rincón de la Vieja National Park
  • Incredible biodiversity of Monteverde Cloud Forest
  • Concentrated flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio National Park

Places Visited

San José - Cartago - Tortuguero National Park - Arenal Volcano - Rincón de la Vieja National Park - Monteverde Cloud Forest - Manuel Antonio

What's Included

Arrival & departure transfers
Ground transport with driver
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks

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Itinerary
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Day 1 : Arrival in San José

Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport, San José, where you will be met by a Travel The Unknown representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore San José at your own pace.

Overnight in Hotel Presidente, San José

Meal plan: n/a

The capital city of Costa Rica, San José is located in the Central Valley region with the Talamanca Mountains to the south and volcanoes to the north. Although on first glance the city seems to be all concrete blocks and thunderous traffic, scratch beneath the surface and you will discover fascinating museums, colonial architecture and a thriving gastronomy scene.

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Day 2 : San José - Irazú Volcano - Orosi Valley - San José

This morning after breakfast, head east out of the city for Irazú Volcano, ascending all the way to the crater. Irazú, the highest volcano in Costa Rica, provides great spots from which you will enjoy spectacular views of its four craters and, on a clear day, see views of both the Pacific and Caribbean plains. A stop at the first museum of vulcanologic studies will complement your trip to Irazú and provide more information on the behaviours and history of these geologic formations.

This tour also includes a visit to the beautiful Orosi Valley where lunch can be taken in a local restaurant, and a short stop in the old capital of Costa Rica, Cartago.
 
In the afternoon, visit the San Jose National Theater and Gold Museum. Discover the culture and history of Costa Rica’s capital city. Also visit its historic residential areas, such Barrio Amón and the local parks surrounding it, the metropolitan cathedral and the central market.

Overnight in Hotel Presidente, San José

Meal plan: Breakfast

Located in Costa Rica’s Central Volcanic Conservation Area, Irazú Volcano National Park spans 23 km2 around the active Irazú Volcano. At 3,432 metres above sea level it is Costa Rica’s tallest, and at its summit both Caribbean and Pacific coasts can be seen. Referred to by locals as 'El Coloso' (The Colossus), Irazú has remained relatively dormant since 1962. However, its geological features, including two dramatic crater lakes - Principal and Diego de la Haya - illustrate the power and strength Irazú holds.

Nestled in the foothills of the Irazú Volcano is the city of Cartago. Founded in 1563 as the first capital of Costa Rica, it retains little of its colonial architecture due to damage from several earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. However, the remains of the Santiago Apostol Parish and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels still stand, with the latter drawing large numbers of pilgrims during the summer months. It is also home to the Lankester Botanical Gardens and its award-winning collections of orchids and epiphytes.

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Day 3 : San José - Tortuguero National Park

Early in the morning, you will depart for the Tortuguero area. On the way, pass through the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a flora and fauna sanctuary covered by an emerald-green mass of vegetation. From the comfort of your vehicle, see open pasture lands and small farming towns, and notice a change in the climate as it becomes warmer and more humid, but very pleasant. Breakfast is included on the way in a local restaurant.
 
Arrive to La Pavona where you will be transferred by boat to your lodge close to Tortuguero National Park. A two-hour boat ride will take you through the waterways surrounded by rainforest. From the boat, you will be able to admire the unique flora and fauna of this area. Upon arrival, there will be a short briefing on the lodge and the activities included during your stay, followed by lunch.
 
In the afternoon, visit the village of Tortuguero where you will learn about the lifestyle of local residents and the significant conservation efforts that some NGOs have developed to protect the sea turtles that come to spawn each year along the 22 miles of protected coastline.

Please note: Tours and transfers in Tortuguero National Park are shared with other passengers. Transfers may be shared with up to 40 passengers; tours may be shared with up to 20 passengers.

Overnight in Aninga Lodge, Tortuguero National Park

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Covering an area of over 300 km2 on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is one of the country's principal attractions. The park experiences exceptionally high rainfall and this, combined with the unique environment created by the combination of freshwater and seawater, makes the beaches, canals, lagoons and wetlands of Tortuguero areas of exceptional biodiversity. The protected beaches are home to a great number of nesting turtles, including green sea turtles, leatherbacks and hawksbill, and the forests host several monkey species, sloths, snakes and spiders.

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Day 4 : Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero is a great place for ecotourism lovers. During this day you can explore the secondary canals of this paradisiacal place with your guide, where you can see different species of mammals, birds and reptiles.
 
Tortuguero offers full contact with Mother Nature. Much of the National Park extends along its unspoiled beaches that serve as refuge for spawning sea turtles between July and September. After this tour, you will return to the lodge for a delicious lunch.
 
The afternoon is at leisure - you may wish to book optional tours at an extra cost.

Overnight in Aninga Lodge, Tortuguero National Park

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

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Day 5 : Tortuguero National Park - La Fortuna

At mid-morning the journey continues with a boat transfer back to the disembarking point in Caño Blanco. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Guápiles, where lunch will be served. Afterwards, continue towards the northern plains and visit a family-run pineapple plantation.
 
The Zuñiga family has been dedicated to pineapple production since 2004. The farm consists of over 200 acres; about 60% of the farm is dedicated to the protection of the natural affluent rivers that cross it, thereby providing a safe habitat for birds and other animals. At the Zuñiga farm, learn what elements create the perfect balance to produce the most delicious pineapples and how to pick a good pineapple in your local market when you return home.
 
Start the tour in a comfortable truck and enjoy an explanation about the planting, morphology, development and harvesting of this sweet golden fruit. Eat freshly-cut pineapple that is picked right in front of you. End the tour with a wonderful cool drink of field-fresh pressed pineapple juice. Relax and enjoy magnificent views of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
 
You will arrive in La Fortuna in the early afternoon to check in at your hotel and the rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in Lomas de Volcán, La Fortuna

Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch

North-west of San José lies the picturesque mountain town of La Fortuna. Nestled in the northern highlands, it sits before the mighty Arenal Volcano. Visible from almost every vantage point, the volcano provides the town’s quaint streets and colourful gardens a scenic and dramatic backdrop, as well as several hot springs. There are myriad walking trails around the town and volcano, many of which lead to waterfalls, hanging bridges and zipline activities.

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Day 6 : Arenal Volcano National Park & thermal springs

After breakfast, visit the Arenal Volcano National Park with your guide. Known worldwide for its near-perfect cone shape, Arenal Volcano has become a must-see destination when visiting Costa Rica. Its volcanic activity and surrounding natural beauty make this a very exciting hiking tour.
 
The afternoon is at leisure, then in the evening, get your bathing suit and be ready to visit Ecotermales La Fortuna.
 
Ecotermales La Fortuna will allow you to enjoy an experience that is completely orientated towards rest and relaxation, thanks to the natural hot springs that flow directly from Arenal Volcano. For your own comfort, you will be provided with a towel and a locker where you can place your valuables for safekeeping; you will be able to walk through trails in the forest and into five different natural hot spring pools, with water temperatures ranging from 98ºF to 107ºF. 
 
One of these pools has its own waterfall, where you can experience an amazing natural massage.

Overnight in Lomas de Volcán, La Fortuna

Meal plan: Breakfast

Arenal Volcano is a relatively young volcano that dominates the fertile landscape of Arenal Volcano National Park. Until 1968, locals had considered Arenal to be a mountain. However, everything changed on the morning of 29th July 1968, when the supposed mountain suddenly erupted. The eruptions continued non-stop for several days, covering more than 15 square kilometres with lava, rocks and ash, affecting three towns and its crops, livestock, and properties. From then until 2010, Arenal Volcano was relatively active, often spewing out rocks, lava, ash and smoke. It is now experiencing an indeterminate resting phase. The region surrounding Arenal offers myriad opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Small changes in altitude create unique micro-climates and ecosystems, making it a suitable home to a variety of exotic species, including howler monkeys, toucans and over 350 bird species.

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Day 7 : Arenal: day at leisure

Today is free for you to relax and explore at your own pace. We recommend a visit to the Mistico Hanging Bridges (not included), where several activities are available, including guided walks, birding tours and horse riding.

Overnight in Lomas de Volcán, La Fortuna

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 8 : Arenal - Rincón de la Vieja National Park

After breakfast, continue this exploration of the forests of Costa Rica and its wildlife, crossing rivers and volcanic mountain ranges as you head north to the Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a region that owes its name to the volcano located within it and that ancient locals used to say that was home to an old witch. 

In the afternoon, check in at your hotel and enjoy a guided walk through the hotel grounds with your guide, looking for wildlife. 

Overnight in Cañon de la Vieja, Rincón de la Vieja National Park

Meal plan: Breakfast

Rincón de la Vieja National Park is one of the largest conservation areas in Costa Rica. Stretching over 34,000 acres, from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic, it encompasses two volcanoes, dwarf cloud and montane ecosystems, as well as myriad lazy rivers, boiling mud pits and hot sulphuric springs in which visitors can bathe. The park also protects an endangered tropical dry forest, which offers pleasant trekking conditions, and provides refuge for rare emerald toucanets, blue-crowned motmots and a variety of mammals. such as monkeys, tapirs and even jaguars.

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Day 9 : Rincón de la Vieja National Park

Today you will explore the Rincón de la Vieja National Park with your guide, including a spectacular and breath-taking hike around the area of Las Pailas. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded to live within the park, such as emerald tucanets and long-tailed manakins. Amongst the numerous insects, you may see butterflies of the Morpho genus. Three different species of monkeys and other extraordinary animals also call this area home.
 
The park protects the largest population of wild purple orchids (Guarianthe skinneri), which is Costa Rica’s national flower. Twisted trees with many branches and epiphytes are also found here, including Matapalos of the Ficus genus, Guanacaste trees, Jumbo Limbos and many other different and glorious species surrounded by magnificent transitional forests.

Overnight in Cañon de la Vieja, Rincón de la Vieja National Park

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 10 : Rincón de la Vieja National Park - Monteverde Cloud Forest

After breakfast, depart for the Monteverde Cloud Forest area. Arrive in the area in time for lunch in a local restaurant (not included).
 
This afternoon you will get the chance to speak to a local guide, who will tell you more about the history of this incredible area. There will be time to visit the town of Santa Elena and browse the souvenir shops.

Overnight in Hotel Poco a Poco, Monteverde Cloud Forest

Meal plan: Breakfast

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to an incredible biological reserve of the same name, boasting 5% of the world's biodiversity in just 0.03% of the world's landmass. Within the protected area live over 2,500 species of plants, 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds and 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles. Wildlife you might spot includes the brightly coloured quetzal bird, the endangered three-wattled bellbird, tapir, sloths and howler monkeys. The community-run Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, also found in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, is a habitat for spider monkeys.

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Day 11 : Monteverde Cloud Forest

After breakfast, take a walk through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This four-hour tour will show you all the different types of ecosystems to be found in the region, as you learn more about the unique wildlife, much of which is endemic to the area. If you are lucky, you might be able to see the beautiful quetzal roaming the surrounding forest, the three-wattled bell bird or the black-faced solitaire. However, the most recognised animal in Monteverde is the golden toad, also endemic to the area. Equally impressive is the unique flora, such as orchids, bromeliads and strangler figs, which add to the forest’s already impressive beauty.
 
Then visit El Trapiche in Monteverde. This tour will give you the opportunity to visit a Costa Rican family-run business. The main part of the tour comprises a walk through a farm, offering beautiful views of sugarcane, coffee and banana plantations. You will also have a chance to see the entire coffee process from seed to cup. From drying through roasting, passing by the grinding and peeling of the beans, you will learn important details about how high-quality coffees are produced.

Then, ride an ox cart all the way to the sugar mill (or trapiche, in Spanish). You will see how the sugarcane is ground and how, at the end of the process, brown sugar is obtained. During this interesting tour you will be able to taste and enjoy several products made from sugarcane, and to taste a cup of top-quality coffee.
 
The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace or book an optional tour at an additional cost.

Overnight in Hotel Poco a Poco, Monteverde Cloud Forest

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 12 : Monteverde Cloud Forest - Manuel Antonio

After breakfast, begin the journey down to the central Pacific coast of the country, heading to the area of Manuel Antonio. This zone offers a very hard-to-find combination of ecosystems, since you will find rainforest, dry forest and aquatic ecosystems combined in a very small territory. You will enjoy the last three nights of your trip in this paradisiacal area.

After checking in at your hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace.

Overnight in Hotel Villabosque, Manuel Antonio

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 13 : Manuel Antonio National Park

No trip to Costa Rica’s mid-Pacific region is complete without a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park. Even though it is the smallest National Park in the country, it is one of the most popular ones for its stunning white sand beaches backed by evergreen tropical forests.
 
In Manuel Antonio you will enjoy a charming combination of tropical forest, beaches and coral reefs; all providing a home to sloths, iguanas, monkeys and millions of colorful marine creatures.
 
Your guide and driver will depart today and you will continue on your own in the area.

Overnight in Hotel Villabosque, Manuel Antonio

Meal plan: Breakfast

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the smallest, yet most spectacular, parks in Costa Rica. It is home to some of the most varied flora and fauna, boasting over 184 bird species as well as sloths, white-tailed deer and white-faced capuchin monkeys. Manuel Antonio is also famed for its expansive white sand beaches and lush evergreen forests.

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Day 14 : Manuel Antonio: Day at leisure

Today you will have a full day to explore independently or enjoy the beach. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Overnight in Hotel Villabosque, Manuel Antonio

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 15 : Manuel Antonio - San José and departure

At a suitable time, you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to San José for your departure flight.

Meal plan: Breakfast

Accommodation

Accommodation

All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.

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Hotel Presidente

San José (2 nights)

Located in the heart of downtown San José, close to the city's cultural and historic landmarks including the National Theatre, Gold Museum and Jade Museum, Hotel Presidente is a stylish and comfortable property. Each of the 92 rooms is tastefully decorated with local art and comes equipped with a flat screen TV, a safe and complimentary WiFi. There is a charming rooftop terrace for dinner and evening cocktails, and a comprehensive buffet breakfast is served in the hotel's main restaurant.

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Aninga Lodge

Tortuguero National Park (2 nights)

One of the smallest lodges close to Tortuguero National Park, Aninga Lodge is immersed in tropical vegetation typical of the region. The lodge offers 33 bright and spacious rooms, each equipped with two beds, a bath and hot water. Facilities at the lodge include a restaurant, bar, large swimming pool in the shape of a turtle and a spa. Aninga Lodge partners with the next-door Pachira Lodge so that guests may move freely between the two properties, allowing for additional dining and leisure options.

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Lomas de Volcán

La Fortuna (3 nights)

In Lomas del Volcán is one of the best situated lodges close to the Arenal volcano. You can enjoy nature, while resting in one of our bungalows. All rooms have two balconies with excellent views. The lodge also has the Hojarasca Restaurant, La Arboleda Bar & Lounge, pool and jacuzzi area and the Los Congos trail exclusively for our guests.

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Cañon de la Vieja

Rincón de la Vieja National Park (2 nights)

Located 30 minutes from Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Cañon de la Vieja has a beautiful location by the Colorado River. Guests can swim in the hotel's pools and waterfalls, and activities such as climbing and rafting are available. For those seeking a more relaxed time, walk the park's easy trails or make use of the hotel's spa and volcanic mud baths. Meals are served in the lodge's two restaurants, which offer responsibly-sourced Costa Rican cuisine. Rooms are simple but comfortable, each coming with a small terrace, air conditioning and a private bathroom with warm water.

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Hotel Poco a Poco

Monteverde Cloud Forest (2 nights)

With an excellent location just 10 minutes from the incredible Monteverde Cloud Forest, Hotel Poco a Poco offers convenience combined with comfort. The hotel provides 30 bright and modern rooms that are equipped with cable TV, a safe and comfortable orthopaedic beds. Facilities at the hotel include a heated swimming pool and whirlpool, an on-site restaurant serving local and international dishes, a spa and beauty salon, and a gym.

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Hotel Villabosque

Manuel Antonio (3 nights)

Hotel Villabosque is a small and charming hotel in the town of Manuel Antonio, close to the national park of the same name. The hotel offers just 20 simple yet comfortable rooms, all with air conditioning, cable TV and hot water. Facilities at the hotel include an on-site bar and restaurant, lounge area and complimentary WiFi. For those looking for some rest and relaxation, there is a small swimming pool with rainforest views, or the nearby white-sand Playa Espadilla.

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