Costa Rica Classic - Natural Costa Rica

The Destination background

Costa Rica is Central America‘s jewel, an ecotourism heaven, making it one of the best places to experience the tropics with minimal impact. San Jose, its capital is a bustling metropolis and a surreal welcome compared to the rest of the country.

Toruguero, often referred to as the "Amazon of Costa Rica" for its rich vegetation is bustling with wildlife, the Arenal volcano and its perfect conical shape has been exceptionally active since 1968.

Monteverde with its zip lines which criss cross the cloud forest and Manuel Antonio Park, with its expansive white sandy beaches backed by an evergreen forest that grows right up to the high tide line.

Full Itinerary

• Day 1. San Jose

  Arrive in San Jose, the country’s capital. After being met on arrival, transfer to your hotel.

• Day 2. San Jose – Tortuguero (B, L, D)

  Early morning departure and drive through the spectacular cloud forest of the Braulio Carrillo National Park. Continue the journey by riverboat to your lodge in Tortuguero. En route visitors may spot West Indian manatee, caimans and spider monkeys.

• Day 3. Tortuguero (B, L, D)

  Explore the national park on foot and by boat. The park is home to the most important green sea turtle nesting grounds in the Western Caribbean. The park contains a series of canals, mangroves, swamps and lagoons which create perfect opportunities to study the vegetation and wildlife.

• Day 4. Tortuguero – Arenal (B, L)

  Depart Tortuguero and drive to the northern plains region of San Carlos and arrive in the small town of La Fortuna. From the town enjoy the spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano, a perfect cone over 5000 feet high and one of the most active in the world.

• Day 5. Arenal (B, D)

  Drive to the beautiful La Fortuna Waterfall and walk to the glorious pools below to enjoy swimming. In the evening visit the hot springs, powered by the volcano, for a relaxing dip while looking at the crimson lava oozing from the volcano. Enjoy dinner at the hot springs in this magical atmosphere.

• Day 6. Arenal – Monteverde (B)

  Travel to Monteverde (small group transfer) by car and boat to explore this beautiful cloud forest. Founded in the 1950s the forest is home to more than 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals and 2500 species of plant. Transfer to your hotel.

• Day 7. Monteverde (B)

  In the morning explore the forest with your guide on foot. In the afternoon enjoy the Monteverde Canopy Tour through the trees for a bird’s-eye perspective of life in the forest.

• Day 8. Monteverde – Jaco Beach (B)

  Travel to the Carara Biological Reserve, where the dry tropical forest meets the northern, greener forest. Enjoy a walk in the reserve before continuing to Jaco Beach, a beautiful volcanic sand beach, and your hotel.

• Day 9. Manuel Antonio National Park (B, L)

  Full day excursion to Manuel Antonio National Park where your guide will lead you along trails to discover the numerous pristine beaches and the local wildlife including the white-faced monkeys. Return to your hotel.

• Day 10. Jaco Beach (B)

  Free day to enjoy the wonderful beach and Pacific coastline.

• Day 11. Jaco Beach – San Jose (B)

  Free morning before travelling to San Jose for your overnight stay.

• Day 12. Depart San Jose (B)

  Transfer to the airport for you international flight.

End of our services.

Tour Prices

• US$2295.00 - based on two people sharing.
• Single supplement (2 or more people – not a single traveller): USD $450

Tour Price Includes:

• A private, exclusive tour.
• All Accommodation.
• Meals as per the itinerary.
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for transfers & sightseeing tours, except shared transfer to Monteverde.
• Services of English speaking guides.
• All entrance fees as per the itinerary.

Tour Price Does Not Include:

• International flights.
• Tortuguero Park Entrance – approx USD $10
• Travel Insurance.
• Visas.
• Expenses of a personal nature (telephone, laundry, drinks, gratuities etc.)
• Optional activities.

Hotels

San Jose

Best Western Irazu Hotel. (Subject to availability.)

Tortuguero

Pachira Lodge. (Subject to availability.)

Arenal

Lomas del Volcan. (Subject to availability.)

Monteverde

El Establo. (Subject to availability.)

Jaco Beach

Best Western Jaco Beach Hotel. (Subject to availability.)