Costa Rica & Nicaragua Express - 7 Days

Liberia - Rincon de la Vieja. Once you have arrived at Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia, known for its proximity to Pacific beaches and the volcanic landscapes of northern Guanacaste, you will be met by your guide before you head north to the edge of Rincón de la Vieja National Park. The 40-minute drive along the Pan-American Highway offers views of the Guanacaste savannah.

You will pass through the quiet village of Curubande before reaching your accommodation. The rest of the day is yours to relax at leisure.

This morning, you’ll explore one of Costa Rica’s most captivating natural sites on a guided hike to La Leona Waterfall, set just outside the quiet town of Curubandé near Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.

Your journey begins at Don Rafa’s Farm, where you’ll follow a forest trail for around 45 minutes. The route runs alongside the striking blue waters of the Río Blanco and includes stretches of wading and swimming through a series of caves and natural pools. Along the way, you’ll encounter dramatic rock formations carved by water over time.

Once you have arrived, you will enjoy spectacular views of La Leona Waterfall—its vivid turquoise waters cascading inside a cave warmed by underground volcanic springs. It’s a striking example of the region’s raw geothermal power and beauty.

Rincon de la Vieja (Costa Rica) - Laguna de Apoyo (Nicaragua) - Masaya - Granada. Today, you will depart for the Costa Rica and Nicaragua border as you make your way north into Nicaragua. After crossing the border, your first stop will be Laguna de Apoyo, a protected reserve built around a stunning sapphire-blue crater lake, formed within the caldera of an extinct volcano. This area is vital for the preservation of Nicaragua’s tropical dry forest ecosystem.

You will then visit the town of Masaya to explore its renowned crafts market, where you can browse traditional handmade items and experience local artisan culture.

Later in the day, you’ll head to Masaya Volcano National Park for a dramatic view of its five craters. If volcanic activity permits, you’ll witness the sunset from the rim of the main crater, with a chance to see the glowing lava below—an unforgettable experience.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Granada, one of Latin America's oldest colonial cities, celebrated for its colourful buildings, historic charm, and lakeside setting.

After breakfast, you will embark on a city tour of Granada in a horse-drawn carriage, where you will explore the main sights of this colonial city. You will then head to the Doña Elba cigar factory, where cigars are carefully made by hand using traditional techniques.

After, you will visit a community-run hammock workshop operated by street children—a meaningful initiative that supports local youth through craft and skill-building.

Later, you will enjoy a boat trip through the Isletas of Lake Nicaragua, a chain of small islands scattered just off the Asese Peninsula. These islets were formed by a powerful landslide from the slopes of nearby Mombacho Volcano, which sent stone and mud into the lake. The Asese Peninsula itself marks the edge of this ancient volcanic flow, offering a dramatic and scenic setting to end the day.

Granada (Nicaragua) - Liberia (Costa Rica) - Tamarindo. This morning, you’ll travel south towards the Costa Rican border. As you cross into a new country, the scenery begins to shift—passing volcanic highlands, open plains, and rural villages en route to the Pacific coast. You'll soon enter the tropical dry forests and sweeping savannahs of Guanacaste Province, a region known for its warm climate and cowboy culture.

After around three hours on the road, you’ll reach Liberia, the provincial capital. From here, your journey continues across a mix of paved and unpaved roads as you make your way towards the Nicoya Peninsula. About an hour later, you’ll arrive in Tamarindo—a lively coastal town renowned for its consistent surf, golden beaches, and relaxed atmosphere.

Once in Tamarindo, you can choose to unwind at your hotel or head out on a sea kayaking and snorkelling adventure. Paddle along the coastline from Tamarindo Beach to the white sands of Capitán Island, where you can dive into clear waters to discover coral reefs and colourful marine life beneath the surface.

Today, you will have the morning at your leisure to enjoy the surroundings and make the most of your hotel’s setting. You might take a gentle walk along the beach or relax in the sun with a fresh fruit juice in hand.

In the afternoon, you’ll head out on a sunset catamaran cruise along the Pacific coast. This relaxed sailing experience includes time for snorkelling and soaking up the coastal scenery, with the chance to spot marine wildlife such as dolphins, turtles, manta rays, or even whales, depending on the season.

On board, you can enjoy an open bar and a selection of light bites, including fresh fruit, dips, and a signature chicken burrito. It’s a laid-back experience designed for you to unwind, take in the views, and enjoy the beauty of Guanacaste from the water.

Please note: The catamaran sailing tour may take place in the morning, depending on weather conditions.

Tamarindo - Liberia. After your final breakfast, depending on your departure flight time, you may have some time for some last-minute shopping, exploring or relaxation before your onward transfer to Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia, where the tour will conclude. Safe travels!