Journeys: Highlights of Costa Rica - 9 Days

From £1,345£149 per day Save 27%

Who is this trip for

Genders

  • Female51%
  • Male49%

Average age

52
12 Min100 Max

Start / End

  • San José
  • San José

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 16

Meals included

11

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Summary

Home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and an astonishing diversity of wildlife, Costa Rica has long been a leader in conservation and the protection of natural heritage. Experience this gorgeous Central American nation on a fun-filled adventure, taking you from the foot of an active volcano to the misty highlands and Pacific coast. Hear from a researcher at the National Geographic–supported Monteverde Institute, learn the art of tortilla-making with a local family, and seek out the country’s unique creatures—from blue morpho butterflies to howler monkeys—on hikes through the forest.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    San José

    If you arrive early enough, you'll have time to head into the city to visit a museum, shop, or visit the main plaza in the city centre.

    The plaza is a good place to people-watch. A mime, juggler, marimba band, magician, or storyteller may be performing for whatever is collected when the hat is passed. Artisan booths are common, creating a regular arts and crafts fair atmosphere.

  • Day 2

    San José/La Fortuna

    Awake in the Costa Rican capital and take a tour of a the tour operator–supported coffee cooperative. Meet local farmers, observe shade-grown coffee plants, and gain insight into the process of coffee production, from bean to cup. After a typical lunch—accompanied by an aromatic cup of coffee—continue to the town of La Fortuna, situated at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. This evening, we’ll visit a local home to learn how to make tortillas. Chat with your welcoming hosts and dig into a traditional Costa Rican meal of black beans, plantains, and your own handmade tortillas.

  • Day 3

    La Fortuna

    Spend the day on your own, exploring La Fortuna and its surrounding areas. In 1968, the Arenal Volcano erupted after centuries of laying dormant, converting this quiet agricultural town into a hot spot for adventure travel. Choose to go stand-up paddleboarding on the tranquil waters of Lake Arenal; relax in the shadow of Arenal Volcano at a naturally heated outdoor spa; take a boat tour of Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, one of the world’s most important wetlands; and more.

  • Day 4

    La Fortuna/Monteverde

    Travel from La Fortuna to the leafy cloud forests of Monteverde—a nature lover’s paradise. This afternoon, choose to discover Monteverde’s breathtaking wilderness on a zip-lining adventure in the birthplace of the canopy tour, gliding high above the treetops or zooming through the misty foliage at exhilarating speed.

  • Day 5

    Monteverde

    Set out on a hike in the stunning Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, treading past giant ferns and vibrant orchids. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the resplendent quetzal—a sacred bird in Maya and Aztec cultures. Afterward, visit the Monteverde Institute, a research and educational organization supported by National Geographic. Hear from a researcher about some of the institute's conservation initiatives, including a successful reforestation project.

  • Day 6

    Monteverde/Manuel Antonio

    Leaving the cloud forest behind, head to Costa Rica’s sweeping Pacific coast and settle into your hotel in the seaside village of Manuel Antonio. Soak up the laid-back atmosphere of the area, and opt to go surfing, or sailing. You can also spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach.

  • Day 7

    Manuel Antonio

    The park has fabulous beaches, abundant wildlife, and a great trail system for those who want to spend the day hiking. Look for monkeys, armadillos, coatimundis, sloths, and some 350 species of birds that are present in the park.

  • Day 8

    Manuel Antonio/San José

    Return to San José. Tonight, choose to join the group for a farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant.

  • Day 9

    San José

    Depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hotels – 8?nts.

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 8, Lunches: 2, Dinners: 1

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    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

    Arrival Only

    An airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.

  • Wifi

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

Dates & Prices

  • Oct 25

    from £1,345
  • Nov 25

    from £1,900
  • Dec 25

    from £1,615
  • Jan 26

    from £2,017
  • Feb 26

    from £1,714
  • Mar 26

    from £2,017
  • Apr 26

    from £1,900
  • May 26

    from £1,794
  • Jun 26

    from £1,794
  • Jul 26

    from £1,900
  • Aug 26

    from £1,900
  • Sep 26

    from £1,794
  • Oct 26

    from £1,794
  • Nov 26

    from £1,900
  • Dec 26

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  • Jan 27

    from £1,794
  • Feb 27

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  • Mar 27

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  • Apr 27

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  • May 27

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  • Jun 27

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  • Jul 27

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  • Aug 27

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  • Sep 27

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  • Oct 27

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  • Nov 27

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  • Dec 27

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  • Save 27%
    Sat 4 Oct 2025 > Sun 12 Oct 2025Guaranteed Departure
    £1,849Best offer£1,345
    Solo Room from +£843
  • Save 27%
    Sat 18 Oct 2025 > Sun 26 Oct 2025Guaranteed Departure
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    £1,849Best offer£1,345

Customer reviews & ratings

(4.79 out of 5)
Based on 417 reviews
  • Amazing, educational, and simply one of the best trips we have ever taken. Hassle free trip. All transportation, luggage handling, and experiences were taken care of by our fantastic guide! Made great friends, felt like we really got to experience Costa Rica, it's people, natural beauty, wildlife, and great food.

    Jodi Oct, 2024 Verified
  • Experiences and discussions of culture, history, agriculture, tourism, and environmental priorities gave outsiders a deeper understanding of beautiful Costa Rica! If you love nature and enjoy the outdoors, this Costa Rica tour is perfect for you.

    Patricia Oct, 2024 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

  • What is the main focus of the "Journeys: Highlights of Costa Rica" tour?

    The tour focuses on experiencing Costa Rica's lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, with an emphasis on conservation and natural heritage.
  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?

    You can expect to encounter a wide array of wildlife including blue morpho butterflies, howler monkeys, resplendent quetzals, other monkeys, armadillos, coatimundis, sloths, and various bird species on hikes through the forests and during guided excursions.
  • Are there any opportunities for cultural immersion or local experiences?

    Yes, the tour includes a visit to a tour operator-supported coffee cooperative to learn about coffee production, and a unique experience learning to make tortillas with a local family followed by a traditional Costa Rican meal.
  • What kind of adventure activities are available during the tour?

    The tour offers various adventure activities such as exploring the Arenal Volcano area, optional stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Arenal, relaxing at naturally heated outdoor spas, boat tours of Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, zip-lining in Monteverde, and optional surfing or kayaking in Manuel Antonio.
  • What can I expect regarding accommodation on the tour?

    The tour uses hotels for all 8 nights. Accommodations may vary and in some natural beauty areas like Monteverde, hotels might be outside the main town and may not have air conditioning due to the cooler, humid cloud forest climate. Hot water shortages and power outages can also occasionally occur.
  • What is the physical rating for this tour?

    This tour has a physical rating of 2, meaning an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers should be able to walk without aid, climb stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.
  • How many meals are included in the tour price?

    The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.
  • What is the maximum group size for this tour?

    The maximum group size for this tour is 16 participants.
  • How should I prepare for the weather in Costa Rica?

    Costa Rica has diverse ecosystems and rain is common regardless of the season, especially in rainforests and cloud forests. It's advisable to come prepared for the possibility of wet weather and variations in temperature.
  • What is the connection to National Geographic on this tour?

    This is a National Geographic Journeys tour, and it includes a visit to the Monteverde Institute, a research and educational organization supported by National Geographic, where you'll hear from a researcher about conservation initiatives.
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