Costa Rica: 11 Days of Adventure and Ecotourism

DAY 1

San José

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), our professional driver will be waiting to provide you with a safe and private transfer to your hotel. During the ride, you may ask any questions about your trip or request to be connected with our offices for personalized assistance.

The Juan Santamaría International Airport is conveniently located just about 17 km from San José.

San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a city that blends culture, history, and modernity. Small yet vibrant, it invites you to stroll through its boulevards, explore the Gold Museum and the Jade Museum, and enjoy the Plaza de la Cultura, the country’s cultural hub. Don’t miss the Central Market of San José, where you can taste exotic fruits, try authentic Costa Rican cuisine, and experience the warmth and smiles that define Costa Ricans.

Traveling to Costa Rica begins with an unforgettable welcome. Enjoy your arrival and get ready to explore a country filled with nature, adventure, and culture.

Hotel D´Sabana (or similar) - 1 night

Breakfast

Transfer Airport - San José

DAY 2

Discover Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica

Tortuguero National Park is one of the most iconic and visited destinations in Costa Rica, famous for its tropical rainforest, incredible biodiversity, and exclusive access either by air (with an additional cost) or by water. Getting here is a unique experience: the boat ride through the Tortuguero canals immerses you in a natural paradise filled with birds, wildlife, and lush vegetation.

Sea turtle nesting season: From July to October, thousands of green sea turtles come ashore to nest on the beaches of Tortuguero, making it one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles in the world.

Tortuguero Tour Itinerary

• Early departure with transportation and a certified guide, crossing Braulio Carrillo National Park.

• Traditional Costa Rican breakfast in Guápiles.

• Scenic drive through banana plantations and picturesque towns until reaching the dock.

• Boat navigation through the Tortuguero canals, enjoying the region’s unique flora and fauna.

• Arrival at the Lodge with a fresh fruit cocktail and welcome reception.

• Buffet lunch included.

• Guided visit to the village of Tortuguero, a car-free town with a charming Caribbean atmosphere.

• Tour of the Turtle Museum and the nesting beach.

Important: Tortuguero is a small village, so you won’t find pharmacies or specialized items.

Remember: Tortuguero is the perfect destination for nature lovers, wildlife observation, and authentic experiences in Costa Rica.

Pachira Lodge (or similar) - 2 nights

Full Board (alcoholic drinks or bottled water not included)

Land and boat transfer (San José - Tortuguero - Guápiles)

Visit to Tortuguero National Park and Tortuguero village

Bilingual guide

DAY 3

Explore the Wildlife of Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica

Wake up to the unmistakable sounds of howler monkeys, the songs of toucans, and the natural symphony of the tropical rainforest. Your guide and captain will take you on a boat tour through Tortuguero National Park, one of the most biodiverse destinations in Costa Rica.

During the journey, you may spot up to three different monkey species: howler monkeys, spider monkeys, and white-faced capuchins. You’ll also have the chance to observe herons, egrets, toucans, and with some luck, sloths, anteaters, and neotropical river otters.

After the tour, you’ll have time to relax by the lodge’s pool or, if you prefer, join optional activities such as a kayak ride through the canals or a guided jungle hike.

Unique Experience: From July to October, you can join a night tour to witness the nesting of green sea turtles on the beaches of Tortuguero National Park. This natural spectacle (with an additional cost) is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Costa Rica.

Tortuguero is a true paradise for ecotourism, ideal for travelers seeking adventure, nature, and a deep connection with wildlife.

Canals Tour by boat

DAY 4

From Tortuguero to the Majestic Arenal Volcano

After enjoying your final breakfast in Tortuguero, you will begin the journey back through the canals, once again surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and abundant wildlife. By mid-morning, a boat will take you to the dock, where your ground transfer to the Guápiles area begins. Here, you’ll enjoy lunch before continuing your adventure.

From the Caribbean lowlands, you’ll head toward the Arenal Volcano region, one of the most iconic destinations in Costa Rica. As you approach, you’ll be captivated by the majesty of its rainforest, the calls of toucans, the echo of howler monkeys, and of course, the imposing silhouette of the volcano itself.

Arenal Volcano National Park and its surroundings offer a complete experience:

• Natural hot springs to relax after a day of exploration.

• Pristine waterfalls hidden in the rainforest.

• Thrilling rivers for rafting and adventure activities.

• Scenic trails for birdwatching and nature observation.

The perfect base to explore this region is La Fortuna, a vibrant town located just 17 km from the entrance of the national park. With its wide variety of hotels and restaurants, it is the ideal place to rest and continue enjoying your journey through Costa Rica.

Important: Schedules and activities may vary depending on weather conditions and wildlife behavior, always ensuring the best possible experience.

Arenal Kioro Hotel (o similar) - 2 nights

Breakfast

Rental car for 7 days (Unlimited Mileage, authorization for 2 drivers, full coverage insurance)

DAY 6

Monteverde: Cloud Forests and Nature at Its Best

The Monteverde region, located in northwestern Costa Rica, is one of the country’s most iconic destinations and a true paradise for ecotourism lovers.

Famous for its cloud forests and extraordinary biodiversity, this natural gem sits right on the Continental Divide of the Americas, offering unique landscapes, a fresh climate year-round, and experiences that capture the hearts of travelers from all over the world.

Monteverde has something for everyone: from thrilling adventures like ziplining, hanging bridges, and guided jungle hikes, to peaceful walks perfect for spotting exotic birds such as the majestic quetzal. Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from boutique hotels to cozy family-run lodges.

Traveler’s Tip: Take time to explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve and experience the magic of walking among the clouds.

El Establo Hotel (or similar) - 2 nights

Breakfast

DAY 8

Manuel Antonio: Dream Beaches and Wild Nature in Costa Rica

The Manuel Antonio region is one of the most iconic destinations in Costa Rica, famous for its white-sand beaches, warm turquoise waters, and sunsets that will take your breath away. Imagine relaxing in a hammock, feeling stress melt away as the sun gently touches your skin.

Between the town of Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ll find several beaches surrounded by lush jungle, where monkeys leap from branch to branch, iguanas bask in the sun, and sloths rest peacefully.

Here you can enjoy a variety of activities: hiking along the park’s trails, surfing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or simply relaxing while watching a postcard-perfect sunset.

Manuel Antonio is also one of only two places in Costa Rica where you can spot all four monkey species: howler, white-faced capuchin, spider, and the endangered squirrel monkey. It’s also a privileged spot for observing wild sloths in their natural habitat.

Important: Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesdays.

Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio Hotel (or similar) - 3 nights

Breakfast

DAY 11

Return to San José and Vehicle Drop-Off

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Manuel Antonio, you will begin the journey back to San José, the capital of Costa Rica.

Upon arrival, you will return your rental car at the Rent a Car offices located near Juan Santamaría International Airport.

This final drive will give you the chance to relive the breathtaking landscapes, adventures, and unforgettable experiences you enjoyed throughout your journey across the land of pura vida.

Car Rental Delivery