San José, Tortuguero Arenal & Guanacaste
Active pace with longer touring days. Expect intermittent walking at a moderate pace for 2–3 hours over a variety of terrain, including cobblestones, hills and uneven pavements. Must be able to negotiate stairs of varying heights, sometimes without handrails. Can tolerate periods of standing during guided tours and be able to climb in/out of various modes of transportation. Some days may include 5–7 km of walking over the course of the day.
We fly to San José and transfer to our hotel for a 3-night stay.
We begin with a tour of San José that includes viewing the commercial district, Metropolitan Cathedral, and National Theatre. We then visit the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, which offers a fascinating journey through history, ceramic artifacts and cultural insights. This evening is our Welcome Dinner.
Today we visit Poás Volcano, home to the world’s largest active crater. When the clouds lift, glimpse its emerald lake, steaming fumaroles, and perhaps a geyser soaring up to 800 feet. After a local lunch, we’ll dive into Costa Rica’s #1 export—coffee.
We start with a scenic drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park, with its lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. We board a boat to explore the tranquil canals, rivers, and lagoons that lead to the charming Pachira Lodge (NOVEMBER 2026) or our rustic lodge (JANUARY & MARCH 2027). We visit the village of Tortuguero and the Sea Turtle Conservancy Museum to learn about vital conservation efforts at one of the world’s most important sea turtle nesting sites.
We start this morning with a guided walk along the hotel's private trail, a perfect place to reconnect with nature. After lunch, we embark on a scenic boat tour, gliding through the serene canals of Tortuguero, spotting reptiles, birds, mammals and more.
We transfer first by boat to the river pier, then by coach to Arenal, staying in the town of La Fortuna, Spanish for “The Fortune”, named after its ample supply of tourist attractions and fertile lands. We will enjoy lunch en route before checking into our hotel
Here we’ll indulge in a culinary experience at the house of Doña Mara, who welcomes us into her home with open arms. We will enjoy fun cooking sessions, and a homemade traditional lunch cooked over a wood stove. We end the day at Ecotermales, soaking in the soothing volcanic hot springs, and enjoying a delightful dinner in this tranquil paradise.
Today we’ll experience the magic of the rainforest, crossing hanging bridges high in the treetops with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and chances to spot wildlife, reptiles, and insects. This afternoon, we’ll step into the world of organic chocolate and coffee, discovering their culture and production while surrounded by Costa Rica’s vibrant native flora and fauna.
NOVEMBER 2026: We travel to the Gulf of Papagayo, known for its pristine beaches and rich marine life. We’ll experience the unique Blue Zone lifestyle at El Sitio de Don Pedro, where we’ll learn the secrets of Guanacaste’s long-living traditions, from the history of Creole corn, to hands-on preparation of traditional rosquillas and empanadas. Arrive at the CC Beach Front Hotel, a serene retreat offering direct ocean access, spectacular sunsets, and ultimate relaxation. JANUARY & MARCH: We travel to the Gulf of Papagayo, known for its pristine beaches and rich marine life. En route we will stop for a traditional lunch and visit Palo Verde National Park, where a scenic riverboat safari along the Bebedero River brings us up close to crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas and vibrant birdlife. We arrive at the Wyndham Tamarindo, perched on a hillside overlooking Tamarindo Bay and features panoramic ocean views, convenient access to town and a local beach club.
NOVEMBER: We visit El Viejo Wetlands, where a scenic riverboat safari along the Tempisque River brings us up close to crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas, and vibrant birdlife. After a traditional lunch, dive into the world of rum-making at Hacienda El Viejo where we will witness the journey of premium rum from raw sugarcane to expertly distilled spirits. JANUARY & MARCH: Today spend the day at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities, explore Tamarindo town, or visit the included access to Langosta Beach Club, an exclusive oceanfront beach club featuring an infinity pool, restaurant and beach access.
NOVEMBER: Today we visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park, home to an animal sanctuary dedicated to the rescue, care, and conservation of native wildlife and rescued animals, from sloths and toucans to jaguars and monkeys. Connect with nature while gaining a deeper appreciation for wildlife protection in Costa Rica. JANUARY & MARCH: After a morning at leisure we'll experience the unique Blue Zone lifestyle at El Sitio de Don Pedro, where we'll learn the secrets of Guanacaste's long-living traditions, from the history of Creole corn, to hands-on preparation of traditional rosquillas and empanadas.
NOVEMBER: Float through the lush landscapes on a tour along the Corobicí River with a chance to spot incredible wildlife, from monkeys and crocodiles to tropical birds like kingfishers and ospreys and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Later, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch before returning to your hotel for a relaxing evening. JANUARY & MARCH: Morning at leisure. This afternoon, we will take a luxury catamaran tour, cruising along the beautiful Costa Rican coastline, snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. We’ll enjoy cocktails and delectable snacks as we view Guanacaste’s stunning scenery and incredible sunset.
Enjoy a day at leisure to relax at the beach, or enjoy the hotel facilities. A variety of optional experiences including zip lining, horseback riding, waterfall hiking and more will be offered.
NOVEMBER: Morning at leisure. This afternoon, we will take a luxury catamaran tour, cruising along the beautiful Costa Rican coastline, snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. We’ll enjoy cocktails and delectable snacks as we view Guanacaste’s stunning scenery and incredible sunset. JANUARY & MARCH: This morning we visit Hacienda El Viejo where we dive into the world of rum-making. We will witness the journey of premium rum from raw sugarcane to expertly distilled spirits. After a traditional lunch we enjoy a hands-on Guaitil pottery experience to learn the ancestral Chorotega techniques and create our own ceramic piece while connecting with Costa Rica's rich cultural heritage. This afternoon we will transfer to our hotel in Liberia for our Farewell Dinner.
Transfer to Liberia airport for our flight home.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (120 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
