Costa Rica Highlights - 10 Days

From £891£89 per day Save 10%

Who is this trip for

Genders

  • Female58%
  • Male42%

Average age

37
12 Min90 Max

Start / End

  • San José
  • San José

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

2 - 4

Meals included

9

Highlights

  • Whitewater Rafting & Jungle Lodge on the Pacuare River - Ride thrilling rapids through pristine rainforest, then unwind at an eco-lodge tucked deep in nature, surrounded by tropical birds and wildlife.
  • Caribbean Charm in Puerto Viejo - Explore the laid-back Afro-Caribbean and Bribri culture, enjoy soft white-sand beaches, and sample vibrant local cuisine on Costa Rica’s southern coast.
  • Arenal Volcano & Paradise Hot Springs - Marvel at Arenal’s perfect cone, trek through lush rainforest, and relax in soothing hot springs after a day of adventure.
  • Canyoning in the Lost Canyon - Rappel down waterfalls, leap into jungle pools, and discover the rainforest from a whole new perspective on this exhilarating experience.
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Canopy & Horseback Adventure - Glide through the misty treetops on zip lines and Tarzan swings, then ride scenic trails with breathtaking views across the Gulf of Nicoya.
  • Kayaking & Snorkelling at Isla Chora, Samara Beach - Paddle across turquoise waters to a pristine island, snorkel among colourful fish, and enjoy a tranquil Pacific beach finale.

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Summary

This is an adventure you'll never forget, taking in all of what Costa Rica has to offer. From volcanoes to waterfalls to beaches and coffee plantations. Maybe you'll enjoy swimming in lagoons, ziplining in national parks or spotting incredible wildlife in the cloud forest. You can't help but enjoy an incredible time especially as you'll be staying in beautiful boutique accommodation along the way.

This is one of our flexible tours, meaning you won't be with a set group and tour leader for the duration, instead, you will be met at your hotels by a driver and/or guide every step of the way, and will have the chance to meet new people on each daily tour or excursion. This gives you not only the flexibility of free time away from a set group, but also the opportunity to meet a new expert local guide at every step of your journey

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Welcome To Costa Rica

    Private Transfer from San Jose Airport To Your Accommodation.

    You’ve arrived in a land full of nature, culture, and Pura Vida. Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport, your private driver will welcome you with a sign and assist with your luggage before taking you to your hotel in San José. This private service ensures a smooth and safe beginning to your journey.

    Accommodation: Hotel in San Jose - 4 star

    Meals: None

    Activities: Private transfer from airport to hotel in San José

  • Day 2

    Transfer from San José to Arenal

    La Fortuna is home to the greater Arenal recreation area, the entire region is paradise on Earth for outdoor adventurers. Volcanic views grace the landscape and heat several geothermal hot springs. A lake and rivers beckon you toward aquatic adventure. Refreshing waterfalls reward you after hikes, offering crisp pools and spectacular views. 

    Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most notable natural features. Standing at 5,437 feet (1,657 meters), this volcano has been resting (i.e. not active) since 2010. However, it is no less majestic to behold, as it’s practically a behemoth against the region’s perfect skies. Rising above the rainforest that surrounds its base, Arenal Volcano frames the skyline with near-perfect symmetry.

    Accommodation: Hotel in Arenal

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Private transfer to Arenal

  • Day 3

    Hanging Bridges, Volcano Walk, La Fortuna Waterfall

    Enjoy a leisure day in La Fortuna. You can relax or book an optional excursion such as:

     Combo Tour: Arenal Hanging Bridges, Volcano Walk & La Fortuna Waterfall (with transportation, water, snacks, and lunch).  Canyoning in the Lost Canyon: Rappel waterfalls and hike through rainforest (lunch included).  Volcano Guided Walk & Paradise Hot Springs: Evening Walk with hot springs and dinner.

    Accommodation: Hotel in Arenal

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Optional tours available

  • Day 4

    Free Day in Arenal

    Another day to explore or relax at your pace. You may choose a different excursion or revisit your favorite spots from Day 3.

    Accommodation: Hotel in Arenal

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Optional tours available

  • Day 5

    Transfer from Arenal to Monteverde

    The trip combines comfortable door to door minivan transfers with a fun and scenic cruise across the tranquil Lake Arenal, where you will experience beautiful views of the majestic volcano and the forested Tilaran Mountain Range. You will also have the chance to see a variety of wetland birds such as kingfishers, flycatchers, waders and other exotic species that abound on the lakeshore.

    You will be picked up from your hotel in Arenal and be driven to the Lake Arenal dam, where you will board a covered boat. This is where the scenic 45-minute cruise across the lake begins. Next, you will begin the impressive 1.5-hour journey up the mountainside on a steep road offering stunning views of the lush, green valley. You will be driven directly to your Monteverde area hotel.

    Home to cool, misty cloud forests, and deep green foliage almost everywhere you look, there’s no mistaking that you’ve stepped away from everyday life. If spending time in nature is at the top of your travel to-do list, then you’ll get your fill of adventure in this part of Costa Rica’s Central Highlands. From zip-lining across a canopy to tours of coffee plantations, there are plenty of activities to keep you moving in the fresh air.  Monteverde is translated as “green mountain”, and once you’ve reached the mountaintop, you’ll first come upon the quaint town of Santa Elena. Here you’ll find gift stores, accommodations, a bus stop, restaurants, cafes, a supermarket, banks and much more. Though Monteverde proper does not have a town center, it is comprised of a dirt road that leads to the Cloud Forest Reserve. Spread out along this walkable road are hotels, cafes, restaurants, galleries, and excellent views

    IMPORTANT: Passengers should expect to carry their bags/luggage to and from the boat. Drivers will do their best to help if you have any problems with carrying heavy bags. Just let them know in advance.

    Accommodation: Hotel in Monteverde

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Private transfer to Monteverde

  • Day 6

    Free Day: Sky Tram / Sky Trek / Sky Walk

    Discover Monteverde’s natural wonders with an optional excursion such as:

     Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Tour  Canopy Zip Line Adventure: Including Tarzan swing and tree rappelling

    You will have the great opportunity to do three activities, Sky Trek, Tree Tram and Sky Walk.  At Trek in Monteverde, you ride the tram up the mountain, along a beautiful cloud forest ridge and allows for stops along the way to observe plant and animal life and learn from an experienced guide. Then to get back to the base you will have to ride the breathtaking ziplines, this famous

    Canopy tour consists of 9 zip line cables. Trek is also a great opportunity to have panoramic views at two observation towers that offer views to the Pacific on a clear day it is also possible to see the northern lowlands that stretch all the way to the Caribbean. The hike at Sky Walk offers a more peaceful introduction to exploring Monteverde Cloud Forest that goes through distinct levels of the wonderfully diverse ecosystem. Walk uses these trails and a series of suspension bridges for a one on one experience with the flora and fauna of the forest canopy. You will hike deep into these magical tropical forests to admire nature from a distinct perspective. Crossing hanging bridges with complete views of the forest canopy, and from the floor of the forest a naturalist.

    Accommodation: Hotel in Monteverde

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Optional tours available

  • Day 7

    Transfer from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio Beach

    Manuel Antonio is home to a namesake national park full of unspoiled beaches and world-class views. Enjoy adventures as diverse as snorkeling and jungle hikes. A great destination for families, there’s something for everyone whether you have young children or college-bound teens. See a variety of Costa Rica’s animals when you peek into tide pools and hike through forests; experience the subtle thrill of birding when you cross a variety of species off of your ‘seen’ list.

    Accommodation choices are plentiful, with some of the country's most inspired lodging options to choose from. Imagine the glittering, warm sand of a pristine beach; shimmering blue water laps along the shoreline, as the fresh ocean breeze dances across your skin. Rediscover what it means to have free time, and then spend it with your favorite people.

    Accommodation: Hotel Playa Espadilla or similar (4 star)

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Private transfer to Manuel Antonio

  • Day 8

    Manuel Antonio National Nature Walk

    Explore the coast or enjoy the beach at your leisure. Optional tours:

     Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour  Sea Kayak & Snorkeling Tour: Includes snack and lunch

    Accommodation: Hotel in Playa Espadilla

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Optional tours available

  • Day 9

    Shuttle Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San Jose

    Private transfer back to San José for your final night in Costa Rica.

    Accommodation: Hotel in San Jose

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Private transfer to San José

  • Day 10

    Private Transfer OUT from Hotel in SJO to Airport

    It’s time to say goodbye to Costa Rica. Your private driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the airport. Please be ready 3 hours before your flight. We truly hope to see you again soon so you can continue experiencing the PURA VIDA that only Costa Rica can offer.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Activities: Private transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport

    Thank you for choosing us and see you next time!

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    1 night Country Inn & Suites by Radisson San Jose or similar 3 nights Country Inn or similar 2 nights Monteverde Country Lodge or similar 2 nights Hotel Playa Espadilla 1 night Country Inn & Suites by Radisson San Jose

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 9, Lunches: 0, Dinners: 0

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Partially Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Airport Transfers

    Included
  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Sep 25

    from £1,180
  • Oct 25

    from £1,180
  • Nov 25

    from £929
  • Dec 25

    from £929
  • Jan 26

    from £959
  • Feb 26

    from £959
  • Mar 26

    from £959
  • Apr 26

    from £959
  • May 26

    from £891
  • Jun 26

    from £891
  • Jul 26

    from £935
  • Aug 26

    from £891
  • Sep 26

    from £891
  • Oct 26

    from £891
  • Nov 26

    from £914
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Customer reviews & ratings

(5 out of 5)
Based on 84 reviews
  • Operator Review

    e would like to thank you for all the efforts to organize our trip . We are impressed by the places we visited. The tours and the guides were perfect . Special thanks to Crystal the tour guide in Arenal , the team of Iguana tours for the rafting . We really enjoyed every minute of our stay and will recommend your services to our friends in Bulgaria!!! Keep the good work !!!

    Couples Dec, 2023 Verified
  • Operator Review

    Everything from the greeting at the airport, to the hotels, transfers, and excursions was on point. Also, they are super responsive and pleasantly easy to work with. Special shout to Dennis and Veronica who were my points of contact. You're terrific!

    Akira Jul, 2023 Verified

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • How long is the trip?

    It’s a 12-day, 11-night adventure covering San José, Pacuare River, Puerto Viejo, Arenal, Monteverde, and Playa Sámara.
  • What’s included in the price?

    Accommodation, most breakfasts, some lunches and dinners, airport transfers, ground transport, and all listed activities (rafting, canyoning, zip line, wildlife walks, kayaking, etc.).
  • What type of accommodation is provided?

    Comfortable 3–4★ hotels and eco-lodges, all with private bathrooms. Properties may vary but will be of similar quality.
  • What meals are included?

    10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners are included. Other meals are free for you to enjoy local cuisine.
  • How active is this trip?

    It’s moderately active, featuring rafting, canyoning, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and zip-lining. A basic level of fitness and confidence in water are recommended.
  • Do I need previous experience for the activities?

    No — professional guides provide all training and equipment.
  • Are activities safe?

    Yes, all excursions are led by certified local guides with appropriate safety gear.
  • What’s the best time to travel?

    Costa Rica is great year-round. The dry season (Dec–Apr) offers more sunshine, while the green season (May–Nov) means lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
  • What should I pack?

    Light, breathable clothes, swimwear, rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle.
  • Is this trip suitable for children?

    Yes, for children aged 11+ who enjoy nature and light adventure.
  • Is there an upper age limit?

    No, as long as you’re in good health and comfortable with moderate activity.
  • How will we travel between destinations?

    By private transfers, comfortable shared shuttles, and a scenic boat ride across Lake Arenal.
  • Are airport transfers included?

    Yes, private pick-up and drop-off are part of the package.
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