Costa Rica’s North Pacific Coast

Highlights

  • Get off the beaten track and see the local side to Costa Rica most tourists miss
  • Discover incredible wild spaces like dense jungles and pristine beaches
  • Thrill at adventures like ziplining, surfing and quad-biking in stunning settings
  • Meet the locals, try their food, and see how life really is in Costa Rica
From £2155 pp*
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10 Nights

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Room #
Adults
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Children
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What you'll do

Overview

Explore the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica, uncovering pristine coastline, lush, tangled jungle with amazing wildlife, characterful towns and rural villages where you can really immerse yourself in the Costa Rican way of life.

Summary:

Day 1: San Jose
Day 2 and 3:  Abangaritos
Day 4 – 6: Santa Teresa
Day 7 and 8: Central Pacific Coast
Day 9 and 10: Jaco

You’ll start your adventure from Alajuela, and head straight for the place you’ve come for, the North Pacific coastline of Costa Rica. The country prides itself on a brand of tourism that is eco-friendly and socially sustainable, and this will be very much the focus of the ten-day tour, as well as experiencing Costa Rica’s highlights on this stunning stretch of coastline.

You’ll be visiting local, rural communities like an eco-farm in the Puntarenas Province on your first day, where you’ll be immersed in rural Costa Rican culture, getting to know how the farm runs and learning how to cook real, authentic Costa Rican cuisine.

Then, you’ll be off to Ensenada Wildlife Refuge, a must-visit destination on any wildlife holiday in Costa Rica, a stunning stretch of protected mangrove forest that offers some of the best bird watching in the world, as well as the opportunity to see crocodiles and howler monkeys as you cruise your way through the otherworldly forests by boat.

From surfing at the world-renowned Santa Teresa one day, to soaring on a zip-wire through the steaming air, the jungle canopy stretched out beneath you, there are magical waterfalls, atmospheric little towns, and stunning beaches to be found all the way to Jaco, where your once in a lifetime adventure ends.

As well as the adrenaline-pumping activities, incredible food and stunning scenery that you’ll experience, this tour offers an opportunity to really get under the skin of Costa Rica and see the hidden gems, off the tourist trail, that you would otherwise miss.

Thanks to your local drivers and guides, you’ll meet and interact with local people and stay in their homes, get to know their way of life and establish human connections that create long-lasting memories, from spending a day with fisherman in the islands of the Nicoya Gulf to making wonderful, sociable meals at Betty’s house.

*From price based on travel for 2 people in 2024 during the low season (between May and June and August to November). For larger groups, solo travellers or children cost please enquire directly to hello@nitgb.com

Please note: this is a private itinerary but on some experiences throughout the tour you may join a small group.

Arrive in Costa Rica

Arrive in San Jose airport, where you will be picked up and driven to your first accommodation. Recover from your long journey and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Accommodation: Country Inn and Suites by Radisson

Meals: None

 

 

Head to the Coast and Get Off the Beaten Track

On your second day in Costa Rica, fully-refreshed and ready to explore this incredible country, you will be collected by your driver and will head towards the wild Pacific coast, stopping at a Zapotal de Miramar, your first taste of authentic, rural Costa Rica.

In this community of just 100 people, visit an eco-farm where you’ll learn just how ingenious the Costa Rican people are at making the best of their natural surroundings, whilst working harmoniously with them.

You will learn about the wastewater purification process, and all about the organic garden with medicinal plants, but most importantly, you’ll learn how to use the fruits of this fertile land to cook proper Costa Rican cuisine.

Then, you’ll continue your journey to the tropical dry forest of Ensenada Wildlife Refuge. A private refuge with a family-run lodge, this lush, biodiverse area is legendary for its birdwatching and mangrove forests . Relax in the peaceful atmosphere here, with views over the Nicoya Gulf, the Mangroves and  salt marshes.

Accommodation: Hacienda La Ensenada

Meals: Breakfast

Explore Unique Eco-Systems

 

On your third day in Costa Rica, you’ll begin exploring this magical landscape by boat, slipping silently through the dappled sunlight beneath the twisting mangroves. The mangrove forests, for which this area is renowned, work to create a unique ecosystem and environment, as they act as a water purifier and as a nursery for all kinds of native wildlife.

Spot roseate spoonbills, hawks, black-bellied whistling ducks, and egrets over your two-hours gliding through the shade of the trees.

Accommodation: Hacienda La Ensenada

Meals: Breakfast

Ferry to Surfers Paradise

The next day, you’ll be heading to the Nicoya Peninsula by ferry, then crossing it to the west coast and the stunning little town of Santa Teresa.

A surfer’s paradise, it combines sea, sand and beautiful trails winding inland to create the perfect spot for nature lovers. The town of Santa Teresa sits snugly on the long line of palm-fringed beaches, and exudes a deliciously laid-back, surfer town kind of vibe. Pair this with great restaurants, cafes and bars and you’ve got yourself the perfect base for exploring the North Pacific coast.

Accommodation: Manala Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

A Day of Adventure and Adrenaline

Strap yourself in for a day of adventure, because today you’ll be jumping onto a zipline that carries you through the tropical dry forest canopy. As you soar through the cool coastal air, you will see the incredible landscape unfold beneath you, for one of the highlight activities of the tour.

Then, get your hiking shoes on and strike out through the jungle for the great Montezuma Waterfall. Nestled in the deep jungle, white water cascades into a deep blue lagoon totally surrounded by pristine nature.

Take a dip in the refreshing pool, or add more adventure to your trip by leaping from the heights of the waterfall into the water below.

Accommodation: Manala Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

Ride the Waves in Santa Teresa

You can’t visit this surfing haven without trying your hand at the most popular activity there. So on your final day here, you’ll be taking advantage of the perfect surf that comes rolling into the stunning beaches from the Pacific with a surf lesson from a local expert.

Learn to ride the waves and immerse yourself in the natural environment in the greatest way possible, and enjoy the freeing sensation of standing and surfing to shore in beautiful settings.

Accommodation: Manala Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

Glamping on a Remote Tropical Island

You’ll be heading back across the Nicoya Gulf today, and  travelling south towards Jacó. As you hop on the ferry, there is a beautiful little island in the gulf known as Jesusita Island and this will be your stop for two nights.

A glorious, untouched gem of lush green forest and golden sand beaches set in glistening blue waters, it’s an incredible place to get off the beaten track and experience nature at its purest.

During the day you can try your hand at artisanal fishing, your guide will take you to some of the best spots on the island and you can catch fish in the traditional way, spending a day getting to know the slow life of the local fishermen. In the afternoon relax and take in the sunset from your lounging deck, accompanied by only the sounds of nature, the gentle hissing of the surf and the call of tropical birds, in your own private paradise.

On one evening  you will have the opportunity to see  a rare natural sight on the ocean, as darkness falls and you take to a boat just off the coast where you will witness the amazing sight of bioluminescence!  In the dark waters surrounding Isla Chiquita there are high concentrations of  light-emitting plankton that create this magical effect. Upon being disturbed, the algae give off a burst of light, and as there are millions of them it looks like sparkles in the water. Depending on the number of algae it appears as bluish or greenish sparkles, and is a magical sight.

Accommodation: Isla Chiquita Glamping

Meals: Breakfast

Ferry to your beach stay at Playa Hermosa

Your ninth day will be spent travelling south by boat to beautiful Playa Hermosa.

Your hotel for the next two nights will be the Villa Caletas, a luxury boutique hotel located on a hilltop,  with a distinctive design and a large infinity pool overlooking the lush tropical jungle and coastline.The atmosphere here is enchanting, the views are amazing and the facilities and service are second to none.

One mile from the hotel, guests can enjoy the private Caletas beach, there is a daily, hourly beach transfer between 9:00 and 15:00 to the  wild and very private pebble beach equipped with sun beds, showers, restrooms and a snack bar to relax under the sun or the cool shade.

This one of kind place is so peaceful that you’re practically guaranteed to see wildlife like monkeys, coatis or even spot humpback whale in migration season.

Relax and enjoy your last days in Costa Rica, by the beach, at the pool or taking part in some of the activities close by the hotel in this surfers paradise.

Accommodation: Villa Caletas

Meals: Breakfast

 

 

 

 

Jungle Adventures in Jacó

Today, experience the thrill of exploring the wild, untamed jungle as you ride quad-bikes along the dirt trails and river beds, splashing through the forest on a unique journey through nature.

Enjoy a two hour guided white-knuckle ride (or something a little more tame – depending on your preference) through the spectacular forest and then take a cooling dip in a wonderful natural swimming pool surrounded by many species of indigenous flora and fauna,  a great way to refresh, you will swim immersed in nature at its richest and most vibrant.

Accommodation: Villa Caletas

Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to San José and Departure

It’s time to say goodbye and head back to San José and the airport, after an incredible ten-day journey around the beautiful, unspoilt North Pacific coast of Costa Rica.

Meals: Breakfast

What's included

Included

  • All transfers from to San Jose airport, between hotels and activities
  • 1 night San Jose - BB*
  • 2 Nights Albangaritos - BB
  • 3 nights Santa Teresa - BB
  • 2 Nights Central Pacific Coast - BB
  • 2 nights Jaco - BB
  • Visit to an eco-farm and cooking lesson
  • Boat ride through the mangroves
  • Visit to Ensenada Wildlife Refuge
  • Montezuma Forest Zip-line, canopy experience and waterfall hike
  • Surfing lesson
  • Boating Tour
  • Fishing Tour
  • Quad-bikes jungle ride
  • *BB - Breakfast Included

Accommodation

Country Inn and Suites By Radisson San Jose Aeropuerto - Standard Room (or similar)

Located is conveniently located near Juan Santamaria International Airport.

Guests may enjoy a complimentary breakfast every morning at the Mambi Restaurant which also serves authentic Costa Rican and international dishes throughout the day. The hotel also features two beautiful outdoor swimming pools and a fully equipped fitness centre.

Hacienda La Ensenada - Single or Double Room (or similar)

La Ensenada Lodge is located on the Pacific Coast in the province of Puntarenas, it is an ideal place for horseback riding, bird watchers, nature lovers and photographers. The most important commodities on the ranch are cattle and horses, the production of salt and fruits. There is a swimming pool and restaurant onsite, containing a Italo Costa Rican menu.

A stay at the Hacienda is a unique and unforgettable experience, because it is family run and you have the opportunity to participate in the daily activities on the farm and become part of typical country family life of Costa Rica.

Manala Hotel - Bungalow (or similar)

Located in the small town of Santa Teresa and is within walking distance of the beach.

The hotel has an in-house restaurant serving light dishes including pizza and pasta. The bar serves a range of cocktails and tropical beverages. Guests may also relax at the beautiful outdoor swimming pool which is surrounded by lush vegetation.

Isla Chiquita Glamping - Tent Suite (or similar)

Located on the shores of Costa Rica’s Gulf of Nicoya, each of the 15 glamping tents features a king bed, a daybed lounger, and a spacious lounging deck with stunning ocean views.

The dining experience at Isla Chiquita brings together the best of two worlds; the stunning natural beauty of the Gulf of Nicoya and the freshest ocean-to-table seafood to be found in Costa Rica. Guests can enjoy a diverse array of excursions, from self-guided kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to bird watching, sports fishing and island hopping tours.

Villa Caletas Hotel - Standard Room (or similar)

Located directly on the beach with two outdoor pools and a restaurant serving Costa Rican and International cuisine, a bar, spa and fitness centre. There are 61 rooms with wonderful views overlooking the gardens, pools and the ocean. There are lots of activities to try close to the hotel such as kayaking, horse riding and rafting, or you could choose to spend your time relaxing and taking in the gorgeous views.

Your local host

Roberto

I was born and raised in Costa Rica and have lived here my entire life. And ever since I could, I’ve been travelling the world. Soon after I left school, I travelled around Costa Rica and discovered every single part of it! Although, we do have a fairly small country, there’s an insane amount to explore, and I’m still exploring it today, seeking out new hiking trails, new lagoons, different viewpoints, that take you to places you hadn’t even knew existed before, it really is fascinating.

Due that passion for discovery and exploring new places eating away at me, I started my immersive travel company with a friend (over 18 years ago to be exact) and began having way too much fun helping people discover my won... Read All

I was born and raised in Costa Rica and have lived here my entire life. And ever since I could, I’ve been travelling the world. Soon after I left school, I travelled around Costa Rica and discovered every single part of it! Although, we do have a fairly small country, there’s an insane amount to explore, and I’m still exploring it today, seeking out new hiking trails, new lagoons, different viewpoints, that take you to places you hadn’t even knew existed before, it really is fascinating.

Due that passion for discovery and exploring new places eating away at me, I started my immersive travel company with a friend (over 18 years ago to be exact) and began having way too much fun helping people discover my wonderful country and the countries around it, so as soon as the possibility came around I just grabbed it, and have worked in the industry ever since.

We choose destinations that are not the same as all the other tour companies out there, those that are emerging or have something special about them, that most people don’t know about, we work with local companies that employ real locals and we choose hotels that are sustainable and have a positive impact on their environment.

We always ensure the people we work with are committed to sustainability, it’s our mission to spread the wealth of tourism, to make sure that the money from tourism is kept in the local communities so that the destination can be developed and conserved as a beautiful place to visit.

 

Location

The tour begins in Alajuela, heading south through Abangaritos, Santa Teresa, the Central Pacific Coast and then down to Jaco.

All transport is provided, including all ferries and transfers from accommodation to accommodation, so you can simply relax and watch the stunning scenery unfold before you.

On your final day, you will be driven back to the airport in San Jose.

Your Stays on this Holiday
San Jose
Nicoya, Puntarenas
Santa Teresa
Jaco
San Jose

What our travellers are saying...

“From the cloudy rain forests with their hanging walkways to surfing at Santa Teresa within three hours. All the logistics all worked - great drivers who transported us and told us about the country… The holiday was great because we saw a lot of the beautiful country, staying in six places… We loved every minute.”

Natalie L

FAQs

What clothes do I need to bring?

Lightweight cotton and linen clothing is recommended for most of the year, with warmer clothes for cooler evenings. Waterproofing is necessary during the rainy season. Loose-fitting clothing is best. Wear neutral browns and greens for bird and wildlife viewing. Always bring mosquito repellent for both day and night.

Please let us know the following in "Free text" for each participant when booking:

Weight*
Height*

*To prepare your surf equipment

What ages are considered children for this holiday?

Children's ages are 12 and under.

Are there any ziplining restrictions?

Maximum weight is: 136 kg (300 lb).
Maximum waist size to fit the harness: 117 cm (46 in).

Zip lining is not suitable for anyone with health issues such as back, neck, bone, or muscle problems, surgeries within the past year, or heart conditions.

The minimum age to participate is 5 years old, provided that the harness and other equipment can be properly adjusted, and it is up to the guides discretion if the child can travel alone on the zipline.

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