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Ultimate Costa Rica

Highlights

  • Spot sea turtles, monkeys, hummingbirds and more, in a country of richly diverse wildlife
  • Canopy walk and ride Latin America's longest zipline through the Cloud Forest
  • Experience Arenal volcano, rainforest, thermal springs and abundant wildlife
  • Visit one of the most biodiverse places on earth - the paradise that is Corcovado
From £4646 pp*
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16 Nights

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What you'll do

Overview

Discover mighty volcanos, lush cloud forest, incredible wildlife, stunning beaches, local hidden gems and quirky cultural experiences as you get under the skin of this unique country. Thanks to your local hosts and guides, you'll come away having not just seen Costa Rica, but having experienced it like a local.

Tour Summary

Day 1: San Jose
Day 2 and 3: Tortuguero
Day 4 and 5: La Fortuna
Day 6 and 7: Santa Elena
Day 8: Jacó
Day 9 – 11: Drake Bay
Day 12 – 16: Manuel Antonio
Day 17: Departure Day

Once you land in San Jose, relax and allow our expert local hosts take care of everything, from transfers to accommodation and activities and simply drink in one of the most exciting travel destinations on earth.

From hiking at the base of Arenal volcano and bathing in the hot springs, to watching nesting turtles on the black sand beaches on the coast, cooking traditional cuisine with the locals to zip-lining with tropical birds in the cloud forest canopy, it’s an action-packed two weeks with a few days to relax on the beach as your time comes to an end, and your final stay is at a charming, sustainable boutique hotel on an organic coffee plantation, which is a global leader in responsible tourism.

For lovers of outdoor activities there is the opportunity to surf on the wild Pacific coast, and wild swimming in crystal clear lagoons in the jungle.

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot exotic birds, sea turtles, sloths, monkeys, tapirs and more, all in their natural habitat whether it be the steamy jungle, the beautiful cloud forest or the tropical beaches on a wildlife holiday that takes you to the most biodiverse parts of Costa Rica.

This is a Costa Rican adventure holiday with a difference. As well as the natural highlights, you’ll get to properly know the cuisine, the culture, and the people of the country. Visit traditional workshops and try your hand at craftsmanship, learn to master Costa Rican cuisine with the locals, and explore rural villages and meet the people who make Costa Rica.

By the time you leave, the memories of the magical landscapes will certainly remain, but the thing that will stick with you the most is the incredible warmth and generosity of the local people.

*From price based on travel for 2 people in 2025 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.

Arrival Day

Arrive at San Jose International Airport and meet your driver, who will take you to your accommodation so you can relax, refresh, and get ready from your Costa Rican Adventure.

Accommodation: Parque del Lago Boutique Hotel

Meals: None

Journey to Tortuguero National Park

Today you’ll have an early start at 6am, diving straight into your once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Costa Rica.

After just twenty minutes of driving out from San José towards the Caribbean lowlands, you will have an early introduction to Costa Rica’s natural highlights, as you pass by the magnificent Braulio Carrillo National Park, with a rich variety of wildlife and through agricultural farmland with pineapple and banana plantations.

After another half hour, you will descend into the lowlands, and you’ll be able to notice the transition between two of Costa Rica’s key climates, the Cloud and the Rainforest.

Breakfast will be taken in a restaurant during your drive through the countryside. At around mid-morning, you’ll arrive at the pier to board a river boat taking you along the beautiful canals of the Tortuguero National Park,  one of the most important nesting sites in the world for the green sea turtle. Its territories protect not only the turtle-nesting beach, but also the surrounding forests, canals and lagoons. There is a  peaceful atmosphere which attracts nature lovers, yet the area never has the feeling of being touristy. It is the ideal place to start a trip to Costa Rica, with early opportunities to spot some of the most famous wildlife.

Along the way, your guide will talk you through the delicate eco-system of the area, giving you insight into how the waterways, the forest and the wildlife coexist so that you have an in-depth understanding of the environment you are experiencing.

Accommodation: Laguna Lodge Tortuguero

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Explore Tortuguero National Park

Today you have a full day to explore the Tortuguero area, you will take guided boat trip the  jungle-fringed waterways behind the beach are teeming with bird, animal and insect life. More than half of Costa Rica’s bird species can be found here along with monkeys, sloths and for the lucky alligators, tapirs, ocelots, peccaries and anteaters.

You will have free time to hike to Tortuguero Hill for a spectacular view of the area – the walk is a short but sharp climb, with a serious reward at the top.

Or paddle out on a canoe, exploring the canals to really get in touch with the incredible nature the park boasts. Visit the little town of Tortuguero with its museum dedicated to the green turtle, and explore the miles of pristine Caribbean beaches to see-when in season- nesting green turtles, the world’s second largest sea turtle. The turtles nest here between July and October. (Turtle nesting tour can be arranged locally at extra charge from 1st July – 31st October only).

Accommodation: Laguna Lodge Tortuguero

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Local Farm Visit, Volcanoes and Hot Springs

After breakfast today you will leave the beautiful Caribbean coast via the beautiful rivers of the North Caribbean, and arrive back at the pier to jump into the bus for your drive to the northern plains.

After lunch, you will visit a local farm that works in symbiosis with nature to produce organic pineapples, sugar cane and a great variety of agricultural products. You will experience a tour of the working farm and get to know the rural life of Costa Rica, the local culture and a very interesting example of how sustainable tourism can open up doors for rural families in the country.

In 1968 the Arenal Volcano, which until then was unassuming and dormant, erupted and the lava and ash completely buried the community of Pueblo Nuevo. Little by little, the spectacular eruption attracted tourists and La Fortuna has transformed from a simple agricultural area to a tourist hot spot. Arenal is a large symmetrical volcano built upon layers of ash, rock and lava and is almost 1700 metres high. Although it is now dormant, the underground heat from the volcano produces natural hot springs – perfect for swimming in and enjoying the gorgeous warm waters.

Spend the afternoon basking in the waters, drinking in the spectacular landscape around you – before heading to your accommodation for the evening, the resort village of Arenal Manoa with its extensive gardens and marvellous views of the Arenal Volcano, located on a working dairy farm.

Accommodation: Arenal Manoa Resort

Meals: Breakfast

Waterfalls and Local Lunch

Today you will explore Arenal Volcano and enjoy the amazing La Fortuna Waterfall.

The day starts late in the morning at 11am, so you have time to enjoy a nice breakfast, explore the surroundings of the hotel and relax a little before your pick up.

Wear your swimming gear and take a leisurely hike down 500 steps that lead the way to a magnificent waterfall. On the way down, your guide will point out the various examples of the stunning wildlife that can be found, as you stroll easily, taking you time to drink in the gorgeous views ahead of you. At the bottom of the steps, enjoy a refreshing dip in the lagoon, splash under the waterfall and enjoy one of the most beautiful swimming experiences of your life.

After you’ve dried off, your lunch will be a truly authentic experience with the Rodriguez Family. They will host and cook you an unforgettable, traditional lunch that you can enjoy relaxing on the riverside, experiencing local culture and of course a delicious and freshly brewed cup of Costa Rican coffee.

Round off the day by visiting the imposing Arenal Volcano National Park, where you will set off on a stunning guided hike around its base while learning everything there is to know about the iconic Costa Rican landmark, from the eruptions and the old lava flows. Take in the bizarre sight of the rainforest reclaiming the old, dried-up lava flows, and try to spot some of the rainforest wildlife, before being driven back to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Arenal Manoa Resort

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Lake Cruise and Travel to Montverde

Today you will travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde, crossing the Arenal Lake. First you’ll travel by land to the lake, where you’ll board a boat for a one-hour cruise to Monteverde. This is the fastest way to travel, but it is also an incredibly scenic journey where you can admire beautiful views of mountains, sky and the colossal Arenal volcano.

When you reach the other side of the lake, you will be picked up and driven to your hotel in Monteverde. It might be a transfer, but it’s also an adventure!

Once you get to the 1440 meters above sea level mountain, on top of Costa Rica’s continental divide, you will feel the much cooler weather of Monteverde and Santa Elena. The mountains are a popular destination for eco-tourism and adventure seekers, offering activities, such as zip lining, hiking and hanging bridges tours through the cloud forest. The town itself is small and charming, with a laid-back but lively atmosphere.

Enjoy a free afternoon to visit the shops, ice cream parlors, cheese factories, coffee houses or local micro breweries of Monteverde.

Accommodation: Koora Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

Forest Canopy tour, Ziplining and Cuisine

In the morning, you will have the experience a canopy tour with an added adrenaline rush as you swing from platform to platform on the longest zipline in Latin America!

Enjoy the unique, spectacular panoramic views that can only to be seen from this lofty perch.

A walk through a cloud forest in Monteverde reveals a lush garden of mosses, ferns, flowers and epiphytes growing thickly on every tree. Clouds drift in and settle among the slopes, providing the plants with the continuous moisture that they require. Dangling roots and vines sweep across the trails, while the sounds of birds and other creatures echo throughout the forest, this is the magical cloud forest experience on foot and in the air!

Today you will visit the small and charming town of Santa Elena, filled with tasty restaurants and folksy artisan shops,

The afternoon will begin with a coffee – you will learn all about the wonderful history of coffee in the world, and in Costa Rica, how coffee influenced the development of the country, you see all the processes involved in the production of coffee, from the seed to the delicious final product. You will also learn about chocolate production in Costa Rica, and the traditions surrounding it, and then you’ll learn about the less familiar sugar cane; growing, harvesting and production through the centuries.

Of course, there will be delicious tastings of all the products!

Accommodation: Koora Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

Tarcoles River Crocodiles Tour

Today you will make your way from Monteverde to Villa Caletas on the Central Pacific coast is a journey filled with scenic contrasts. The drive takes you through dense cloud forests, past picturesque villages, and down to the tropical coastline. Along the way, you can marvel at Costa Rica’s diverse flora and fauna. Arriving at the Villa Caletas, perched high on a cliff with breathtaking ocean views, provides a perfect conclusion to this remarkable trip.

Make a stop over at Tarcoles River to see the big crocodiles! Jump in a boat and venture out to experience an exciting adventure spotting crocodiles, exotic birds, and jungle wildlife like monkeys, iguanas, and basilisks. Navigate through dense mangrove forests and lush jungles while enjoying in the breathtaking tropical scenery. The knowledgeable captain and bilingual guide will provide you with fascinating insights into the fauna and flora of the river.

Accommodation: Villa Caletas

Meals: Breakfast

Journey to Drake Bay

After breakfast you will continue south and you’ll descend into the lush, verdant rainforests of the lowlands and pass through the mangrove swamps of Sierpe before finally reaching the Pacific coastline. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the stunning vistas and enjoy the beauty of each unique ecosystem. Finally, you will reach your next destination in Costa Rica, Drake Bay.

The legend tells that the bay was discovered by Sir Francis Drake during his journeys around the world in the 16th century, and that somewhere in this bay he hid his treasures. Even though one might not find gold and diamonds here, the area is truly home to some of Costa Rica’s natural treasures.

Drake Bay is part of Osa and Corcovado National Park, and is the true dream destination for adventurers and nature explorers. The area was called the most Biological Diverse Region of Earth by National Geographic. Here you can hike through the deep and verdant jungle spotting birds and animals. Drift away on the never ending deserted beaches or merge with the ocean while snorkeling, diving, kayaking or dolphin watching. Drake bay is the land of adventures waiting to be discovered.

Accommodation: Aguila de Osa

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Corcovado National Park

Today you will visit the Osa Península and Corcovado National Park.

These are considered the most biologically diverse places on Earth and the jewel on the crown of Costa Rica’s national parks! A must see for wildlife and nature lovers, Corcovado is one of the less accessible parks in Costa Rica, and this means less tourists visit this area, making it all the more appealing.

This wild, untamed region is home to the only tropical primary lowland rainforest in the world and is a sanctuary for many endangered flora and fauna. It protects over 140 different mammal species, 400 bird species, 20 of which are endemic, 116 amphibian and reptile species, 40 species of fish and at least 500 species of trees in its amazing and diverse habitats of beaches, mangroves, swamps, forest and palm groves.

Your guide will show you some of the best spots to admire the abundant biodiversity of Corcovado, and see animals like the tamandua, the tapir or the peccary.

Accommodation: Aguila de Osa

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Sail to Caño Island

Today you’ll take a boat trip to the wonderful, untouched Caño Island  the gem of the South Pacific of Costa Rica! The waters around Cano island are renowned as one of the worlds best snorkelling and diving areas, with amazing coral reefs and some of the most abundant and varied marine life in the world.

The island itself has Pre Columbian architectural remains and it is believed to have once been a pirate hideout and some say it was the inspiration for Robert Stevenson’s book ”Treasure Island”

As you sail to the island you have the opportunity to see dolphins, whales, sea turtles, rays and other magnificent marine animals and take the chance to snorkel amongst them if you wish!

Accommodation: Aguila de Osa

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Journey from Drake Bay to Manuel Antonio

After breakfast you will take the boat back to Sierpe, you will visit the Sierpe Mangrove on boat. A nationally designated as a Forest Reserve in 1977 and registered as a Wetlands International RAMSAR site in 1995, the Sierpe Terraba Mangroves National Wetlands are located near the Osa Peninsula. The wetland reserve is a bird and nature tour attraction and host an important habitat of many species of birds, fish, shellfish, mammals and reptiles.

You will then make your 2 hour journey to Manuel Antonio on the Central Pacific Coast by minivan.

The beaches of the Manuel Antonio area are beautiful and popular, the National park is well known for its biodiversity in a small area where you can easily spot monkeys, sloths, coatis and others, so there is an optional visit for those who want to explore its trails. However, the white sand beach and the warm ocean will give you the opportunity to relax and enjoy the tropics at its fullest extent!

Free afternoon to enjoy the beach and the hotel.

Accommodation: Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge

Meals: Breakfast

Relax on the Beach

Enjoy a relaxing time at the beach.

Fill your time surfing, practicing yoga, or perhaps visit the village of  Ostional.

Located on the western coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, the small fishing village of Ostional is known for its unspoilt nature and fascinating nesting turtles.

Enjoy the crystal-clear waters lapping at the beautiful beaches, creating the perfect habitat for these protected animals. The beach of the Ostional Wildlife Reserve is a rare natural wonder, with thousands of sea turtles coming to lay their eggs in the black, volcanic sand between July and February. Three types of turtles inhabit the waters here; leatherbacks, green turtles, and most famously, the Olive Ridley sea turtles.

On one day experience the Rural Mountain Adventure tour accompanied by certified guides, immerse yourself in a journey of nature conservation and rural culture. Trek through the verdant slopes of the jungle, where two rivers are born, then plunge into a crystal-clear natural pool beneath a captivating waterfall and witness the fascinating wildlife.

Afterward you will enjoy a traditional Campesino-style lunch at the lodge, while gazing out at the breathtaking panorama of Manuel Antonio National Park and the vast Pacific Ocean.

Accommodation: Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge

Meals: Breakfast

Departure Day

Today, the time has come to fly home. You’ll be transferred to the airport and waved off by your driver.

We hope you’ve had an amazing time in Costa Rica, and really felt as if you know the country, its culture and its people intimately, and haven’t simply been a tourist, but have travelled like a local.

Meals: Breakfast

What's included

Included

  • Private transfers from and to the airport
  • 1 night San Jose - BB*
  • 2 nights Tortuguero National Park - FB* (includes tea, coffee and soft drinks)
  • 2 nights La Fortuna - BB
  • 2 nights Santa Elena - BB
  • 1 night Jacó - BB
  • 3 nights Drake Bay - FB
  • 5 nights Manuel Antonio - BB
  • Guided Tortuguero National Park Tour
  • Guided boat trip on the canals of Tortuguero National Park
  • Visit the Green Turtle Museum
  • Organic Pineapple and Sugar Cane farm visit in Finca Sura
  • Guided hike of Arenal Volcano National Park
  • Guided visit of La Fortuna Waterfall
  • Traditional lunch with a local family
  • Boat Cruise to Monteverde
  • Canopy Walk and Ziplining in the Cloud Forest
  • Guided Coffee/Coco/Sugar Cane Farm visit in Monteverde
  • Guided Tarcoles River Crocodiles Tour
  • Guided tour of Corcovado National Park
  • Boat trip and snorkel adventure at Cano Island including lunch
  • Guided Rural Mountain Adventure through the jungle in Quepos including lunch
  • Boat tour with a local guide through the Sierpe River
  • *BB - Breakfast Included
  • *FB - Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Accommodation

Parque del Lago Boutique Hotel - Executive Room (or similar)

Located 20 minutes from the Juan Santamaria International Airport and in close proximity to San Jose city. Your comfortable room will include air-conditioning and free Wifi, there is also a restaurant on site.

Laguna Lodge Tortuguero - Standard Room (or similar)

Laguna Lodge Tortuguero Eco-lodge is built on a narrow strip of land 650 feet wide, between Tortuguero´s main lagoon and the Caribbean Sea, the Laguna Lodge rooms, reception, restaurants, bars and swimming pools are located in 15 acres of trees and exotic plants which are home to numerous birds and butterflies. There are amazing views of the lagoon and direct access to the beach.

Arenal Manoa Resort - Junior Suite (or similar)

There are 80 comfortable and spacious bungalows all with bright tropical décor, a small garden and private terrace. Nestled in the tropical gardens, the bungalows all feel very private and offer panoramic views of the Arenal volcano. Its large swimming pool is made up of 3 connected pools, and there a jacuzzi and a swim-up bar.

Arenal Manoa is a delightful place to relax, guests are encouraged to enjoy the peaceful gardens which are full of insects, lizards and abundant birdlife. The resort village of Arenal Manoa sits on a working dairy farm so take advantage of the daily tour of the dairy farm for an insight into the operations of a traditional Costa Rican farm, and even get chance to help with the milking!

With Costa Rican owners and authentic Costa Rican hospitality, Hotel Arenal Manoa is the eco destination with no artificial ingredients!

Koora Hotel - Forest Double Room (or similar)

The Eco Lodge Koora located in the heart of the cloud forest has just 10 cosy suites and bungalows within easy reach of the magical Aguti Wildlife Reserve and the bustling centre of Monteverde. You will sleep in the treetops, literally! With stunning treetop views only the natural beauty of Monteverde can provide, you will feel the magic of the cloud forest as you sip coffee or enjoy a late-night drink on your private balcony.

This boutique accommodation is the perfect nature retreat. The accommodation is seamlessly integrate with the surroundings and you’ll be able to gaze at this natural oasis from the floor to ceiling windows with the chirping and singing of birds as the soundtrack. There is a restaurant, bar and coffee shop on site. The rooms have handcrafted furniture made by local artisans, comfortable beds, hot showers.

Villa Caletas - Standard Room (or similar)

Villa Caletas is set upon a hilltop in the Central Pacific coast of Puntarenas, Costa Rica with views of coastline and the tropical rain forests.

The rooms are equipped with a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, TV, coffee maker, mini bar, hairdryer and safe. For guests enjoyment there are restaurants and bars, infinity swimming pool, boutique, spa, fitness centre, tour centre and a private beach.

For daily activities, guests can take a walk through the rain forest trail or spend a day swimming at the beach.

Aguila de Osa - Standard Room (or similar)

Nestled amid jungle covered hillside overlooking the tranquil waters of Drake Bay, Aguila de Osa is a jungle Eco Lodge close to  the beautiful Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Marine Reserve.

There are amazing wildlife spotting opportunities and many water and land based activities on offer. The large thatched wooden cabins are simply furnished and very comfortable with views of the surrounding lush jungle.

There is an open air restaurant serving delicious local dishes and there is a bar on site. The hotel works closely with the local community and to protect the environment, using water from its on site well, and composting food waste to use in the organic gardens.

Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge - Superior Room (or similar)

The Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge lodge is situated above Manuel Antonio National Park, on a jungle hilltop and has been awarded Costa Rica’s highest hotel sustainability rating.

There are 58 rooms, most with private balconies, only 1 tree was removed during the construction of the Lodge, and energy efficient light and heating are used throughout.

There is an outdoor swimming pool with swim up bar and a spa. Guests can dine at Claro que Si elegant seafood restaurant or at the casual poolside Bar & Grill.

Sitting in 10 acres of gardens on the jungle hillside and striking the perfect balance between design and comfort, the lodge connects guests with the surrounding tropical forest of Manuel Antonio and the spirit of Costa Rica.

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.

 

Roberto image

Location

You’ll be picked up from Juan Santamaria International Airport, before embarking on an incredible itinerary that takes in both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, the jungle interior of Montverde, and the mountains and villages of La Fortuna.

At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off back at the airport, and all transfers are taken care of.

1. San Jose
2. Tortuguero
3. La Fortuna
4. Santa Elena
5. Jacó
6. Drake Bay
7. Manuel Antonio

FAQs

What clothes should I pack?

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 birding and wildlife viewing. Always bring mosquito repellent for both day and night.

Is this package suitable for children?

Children can book onto this package, however certain experiences may not be suitable for certain ages. Please advise ages at time of enquiry so the relevant adjustments can be made (if applicable).

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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