Costa Rica: Wildlife, National Parks & Hidden Gems of the Northwest - 14 Days



Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female64%
- Male36%
Average age
Start / End
- San José
- Playa Flamingo
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
8Highlights
- Experience the Thrill of La Fortuna & Arenal: Dive into adventure with invigorating hikes around the majestic Arenal Volcano, cool off in the cascading La Fortuna waterfall, or get your adrenaline pumping with optional canyoning excursions amidst lush tropical landscapes.
- Immerse Yourself in Monteverde Cloud Forest: Soar through the verdant canopy on exhilarating ziplines, wander across suspended bridges for unparalleled views of diverse wildlife, and discover the nocturnal wonders of the cloud forest on an included guided night walk.
- Discover Paradise at Manuel Antonio National Park: Enjoy included entry to this spectacular national park, where pristine white-sand beaches meet lush rainforest. Spend your days swimming in the Pacific, kayaking through serene mangroves, and spotting monkeys and sloths in their natural habitat.
- Marvel at the Electric Blue Rio Celeste: Embark on a captivating walk to witness the otherworldly, vibrant blue waters of Rio Celeste, a natural phenomenon nestled within the Tenorio Volcano National Park, truly a sight to behold.
- Explore the Volcanic Wonders of Rincón de la Vieja: Hike through the dynamic tropical and volcanic landscapes of Rincón de la Vieja National Park, seeking out resident wildlife, and later unwind with optional spa treatments or a relaxing soak in natural hot springs.
- Unwind on the Golden Sands of Playa Flamingo: Conclude your adventure on the idyllic northern Pacific coast at Playa Flamingo, offering a tranquil escape with its pristine beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or a breathtaking catamaran excursion.
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Summary
Beloved by all travellers, Costa Rica is a small but mighty gem — and this 14-day adventure from San José to Playa Flamingo shows you why. You'll hit the highlights while veering off the beaten path to uncover local favourites. Soar through the jungle canopy of Monteverde, feel the spray of a waterfall in Manuel Antonio National Park, and marvel at the electric blue waters of Rio Celeste. With visits to three national parks, the gorgeous beaches of Guanacaste, and peaceful rainforest retreats, this trip strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Costa Rica like never before!
Itinerary
Day 1
San José
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.
Day 2
San José/La Fortuna
La Fortuna is an excellent base for adventure. Opt to hike the area’s nature trails, swim in chilly La Fortuna waterfall or go canyoning.
Day 3
La Fortuna
Spend the day getting your adrenaline pumping, viewing local wildlife, marvelling at the Arenal Volcano and getting to know more about Costa Rica in La Fortuna. There are enough activities here to keep you busy all day long.
Day 4
La Fortuna/Monteverde
Travel across Lake Arenal into the mountains and on to Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Arrive to spend time enjoying this nature-lover's paradise.
Day 5
Monteverde
Enjoy a free day to explore the cloud forest region of Costa Rica. Opt to fly across canopy ziplines, walk across suspended bridges through the forest canopy, or go horseback riding in the hills.
Day 6
Monteverde/Quepos
Travel to the Pacific Coast. Enjoy Quepos. Opt to swim, fish, kayak, surf or take a sailing trip.
Day 7
Quepos
Enjoy an included entrance into Manuel Antonio National Park. Then, take advantage of free time to explore. Opt to swim in the Pacific. Or choose to kayak through mangroves and relax on the beach.
Day 8
Quepos/San José
Pre-book the Manuel Antonio Catamaran Tour on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
Day 9
San José to Rincón de la Vieja
After an early departure from San Jose, the group will travel to the famed ethereal blue waters of Rio Celeste. Set off on a CEO-led walk through the area with views of the river along the route before an included lunch. Continue onwards to the Rincon de la Vieja area where you will have dinner at the lodge restaurant before a night walk on the nearby trails.
Day 10
Rincón de la Vieja National Park Area
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before transferring to Rincón de la Vieja National Park where you will embark on a hike in the area to gain a full sense of the tropical and volcanic landscape, while searching for resident wildlife. Travel back to the hotel in the afternoon for free time on the property. Activity options range from ziplining, hiking in the area, and various cultural experiences.
Day 11
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park Area
Enjoy a full free day in the Rincon de la Vieja area with an abundance of optional activities to choose from. Between hiking, bird watching, or spa treatments and a soak in the hot springs, your day can be as leisurely or busy as you’d like.
Day 12
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park Area to Playa Flamingo
After breakfast at the lodge the group will travel to Playa Flamingo on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast. Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk upon arrival to get to know this uniquely set up town, whose central area has remained a pristine beach protected by a large mangrove forest. Then, spend a free evening exploring on your own.
Day 13
Playa Flamingo
Spend a full free day in paradise. Opt to prebook a Catamaran excursion to get out onto the water for a whole new view of the Playa Flamingo area. Or choose to enjoy the beach on your own with swimming and sunbathing.
Day 14
Playa Flamingo
Please note that while your tour ends in Playa Flamingo, there are taxis/shuttle services available to the Liberia airport. These services depart from the town of Potrero which is 10 minutes from your Finish Point Hotel. It takes one hour to get to the airport in Liberia from Potrero.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (13 nts).
Meals
Breakfasts: 3, Lunches: 2, Dinners: 3
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Dec 25
from £2,239Jan 26
from £2,239Feb 26
from £2,049Mar 26
from £2,049Apr 26
from £2,239Jun 26
from £1,929Jul 26
from £2,049Aug 26
from £2,239Sep 26
from £1,929Oct 26
from £1,929Nov 26
from £1,929Dec 26
from £2,049
- Sat 26 Sep 2026 > Fri 9 Oct 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay MonthlyBest offer£1,929Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
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.
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