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Best of both worlds!

Costa Rica & Nicaragua Highlights

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12 Nights
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Explore the treasures of Central America

This 12-night vacation offers the best of Central America in one vacation! Fly into Costa Rica and see San Jose, Arenal and Monteverde before heading to its neighbor up north. In Nicaragua, enjoy stays in San Juan del Sur, Granada and Leon. 

What's Included
  • Round-trip economy class airfare into San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO) and out of Managua, Nicaragua (MGA)
  • Airport transfer upon arrival
  • 1 night in San Jose at the Sleep Inn San Jose Downtown, or similar
  • Automatic 4x4 car rental for 4 nights (Suzuki Grand Vitara or similar)
    • Pick up: San Jose Hotel on Day 2
    • Drop off: Peñas Blancas (Costa Rica/Nicaragua border) on Day 6
  • 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at Hotel Lomas del Volcan, or similar
  • 2 nights in the Monteverde area at Trapp Family Lodge, or similar
  • Automatic 4x4 car rental for 7 nights (Suzuki Grand Vitara or similar)
    • Pick up: Peñas Blancas (Costa Rica/Nicaragua border) on Day 6
    • Drop off: Managua International Airport on Day 13
  • 3 nights in San Juan del Sur at El Caite, or similar
  • 2 nights in Granada at Alhambra Hotel, or similar
  • 2 nights in the Leon area at Austria Hotel, or similar
  • Breakfast daily

Not included (and payable in destination):
  • Tourist Card (purchased at airport) = $10 per person
  • Airport Exit Tax = $45 per person
    Great Ways to Explore

    • Soak in the hot springs near the base of Arenal, an active volcano!

    • Zip line across incredible flora and fauna in Monteverde.

    • Relax beachside in the laidback Nicaraguan town of San Juan del Sur.

    • Feel history come alive in Granada, Nicaragua's oldest city!

    • End your journey in the colonial city of Leon.

    Package Overview

    This two-country vacation will take you through breathtaking natural wonders, charming colonial cities and so much more. Arrive in Costa Rica's capital of San Jose for the night before picking up your rental car and driving to Arenal, home to an impressive active volcano. On the way, stop as much or as little as you'd like.

    Next, you will head to Monteverde, a sprawling cloud forest home to monkeys, birds of every shade, and a sea of green foliage. Take your pick of exciting outdoor activities, from zip lining to walking across a hanging bridge!

    The second part of your journey will have you exploring Costa Rica's sister country, Nicaragua. Rest and relax in the beach village of San Juan del Sur on the Pacific Ocean before moving on to Granada, one of Latin America's most beautiful colonial cities. This ancient town on the shores of mighty Lake Nicaragua is full of history and Spanish colonial charm, and is one of the oldest European settlements in the western hemisphere.

    Further up north you’ll have the chance to visit Leon, Nicaragua's colonial former capital, founded in the early 17th century and home to more than 12 colonial period churches, each one unique in its design - from tiny parish-size chapels to the mighty Cathedral, Central America's largest church. 

    Important car details:
    • When traveling from Costa Rica to Nicaragua, you will need to exchange your rental car at the Peñas Blancas Border (between Costa Rica and Nicaragua). You will leave the car rental that you used in Costa Rica and change to another vehicle for use in Nicaragua. The car exchange, border crossing and immigration process takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the season and time of day.
    • Once at the border point, you will have to return the car rental back to the Costa Rica car rental staff. Then you will proceed on your own through immigration and customs. After the immigration process is completed on the Costa Rican side, then you will have to walk approximately 650 feet (with your luggage) to a point call LA AGUJA. From there, you will need to walk another 900 feet to the Nicaraguan immigration building to get your passport stamped, and here you’ll be asked to pay the local fees. You’ll then proceed to the rental car office, located in front of the Nicaraguan immigration building at Aerocigar Building, another 300 feet away, to pick up your Nicaraguan rental car.

    Car rental details:
    • Minimum age to rent a car is 25
    • Valid driver’s license and passport required at check-in
    • Mandatory daily insurance must be paid directly by the traveler at the time of rental, in destination
    • A mandatory deposit is required to be paid by credit card at time of rental (American Express, Master Card & Visa accepted). Deposit will be refunded when car is returned.
    • Rates include free mileage, and second driver at no cost
    • Car must be returned with a full tank of gas

    Helpful links for travel to Nicaragua:

    Visa & Passport/Travel Advisory Info

    Vaccines & Medications Info

    Helpful links for travel to Costa Rica:

    Visa & Passport/Travel Advisory Info

    Vaccines & Medications Info

    Show Detailed Itinerary

    Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.

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    Package ID: PK-GC4P-SH-CRNH-SJO

    Please note that some elements called out in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check "What's Included" above for full details on inclusions. As we all go through the recovery together, the fluid nature of this event means some venues and attractions may have restrictions or closures. Please check online resources close to the time of travel to better plan your own day-to-day itinerary.

    Day 1. Welcome to San Jose, Costa Rica!

    Touch down in sunny San Jose and meet up with your welcoming guide, who will provide you with all of the necessary documentation you'll need on this trip, and then transfer you to your hotel for the night! 

    With a few parks, and some bars and restaurants right in the area, perhaps you'd like to take a stroll and see some of your surroundings!

    Transfer to San Jose hotel

    Check-in - Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

    San Jose, Costa Rica
    3 out of 5 stars

    Escape to this relaxing retreat in the heart of downtown San Jose! You'll forget you're staying in a bustling city, as the only things you'll feel at this hotel are peace and serenity. Just 20 minutes from the Juan Santamaria International Airport, this convenient hotel is surrounded by lush parks, nightlife, cultural attractions, restaurants, and more. Enjoy sweeping views of Paseo Las Damas Avenue, one of the most historic spots in San Jose!

    Check-in with the hotel's friendly reception team, then make your way up to your spacious room. Open the door to contemporary decor, complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a refrigerator, a microwave, LED TV, and much more. Realize you forgot something? Not to worry. Head down to the 24-hour convenience and souvenir shop! While you're down there, grab a cup of coffee, offered free all day and night. Work all your stresses away at the modern fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at the 24-hour Magnolia Restaurant, and save room for a complimentary breakfast buffet in the morning! Need a ride to the airport? You're in luck! Ask the helpful staff about the hotel's free airport shuttle.

    Day 2. San Jose - Arenal Volcano

    Pick up your rental car from your hotel and hit the open road! Follow the road signs and your itinerary throughout your trip.

    Today you're heading to the stunning Arenal Volcano. If you drive non stop, you'll reach your hotel in about 3 and a half hours. But those who enjoy the arts may want to stop by Sarchi, a charming city known for its beautiful artisanship. If you're a nature fan, stopping by Zarcero Park and church lets you see a wide variety of agricultural plantations, beautiful decorative plants, and even cattle ranches! With stops at both of these places, driving would take about 5-7 hours instead, so leave with plenty of time to explore!

    A Tip For Your Trip: Car rental includes free mileage but does not include mandatory insurance, guarantee deposits, fuel nor any other additional services.

    Check-in - Lomas del Volcan Hotel

    Fortuna, Costa Rica
    3 out of 5 stars

    Retreat to your cozy wood cabin at Lomas del Volcan Hotel, overlooking Arenal Volcano. Wake up to sights and sounds of the surrounding rainforest and explore the many hiking trails, thermal pools and nature tours. From this rustic lodge-style hotel, you will have all the comforts of a modern accommodation with the privacy of your own bungalow. Each of the wood cabins feature two decks, queen beds, WiFI, coffee makers and more. Cool off after a day of adventure at the swimming pool, relax in the jacuzzi, and enjoy local cuisine from the on-site restaurant. 

    Day 3. Arenal Volcano

    Today is yours to explore the lush life thriving on and around Arenal Volcano. You can hike the active volcano (keep an eye out for unique animals), wobble your way across suspended bridges threading through the treetops, go for a dip at the base of La Fortuna Waterfall, soak away your worries in the volcanic hot springs, and so much more!

    La Fortuna Waterfall

    La Fortuna Waterfall • Arenal, Costa Rica

    Day 4. Arenal Volcano - Monteverde

    Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before packing up and heading for the clouds, well, the Cloud Forest. 

    Drive over gravel roads to Monteverde, an area known for its stunning views of Arenal Lake, Arenal Volcano, and of course the untamed beauty of the jungle. You can also explore the highlands of the cloud forest, which is incredibly popular for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Check into your hotel and check out the small local settlements devoted to the land, raising crops and livestock to keep this area of the world beautifully green. 

    Check-in - Trapp Family Lodge

    Monteverde, Costa Rica
    3 out of 5 stars

    Enjoy a stay at Trapp Family Lodge, the nearest hotel to the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Surrounded by a paradise of flora and fauna, you'll love the peaceful serenity of Monteverde's incomparable natural beauty from this homey abode.The wooden chalet-style architecture was designed by the owner to reflect the warmth of the region. From your spacious suite, enjoy views of the surrounding gardens and reserve then enjoy a candlelit dinner at the restaurant. 

    Day 5. Monteverde

    Rise and shine! Today is all about exploring Costa Rica's picture-perfect natural beauty in marvelous Monteverde Cloud Forest. Discover rare plants, rich biodiversity, amazing wildlife, and oh so much more. Adrenaline junkie? You've come to the right place! Consider thrilling activities such as the Sky Walk, a maze-like network of hanging bridges, horseback riding, or the Sky Trek Canopy Tour. Feel yourself flutter with excitement in the local butterfly garden and take tons of photos of the postcard-worthy landscapes that surround you.

    Bird watching

    Bird watching in Costa Rica

    Day 6. Monteverde, Costa Rica - San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

    Say goodbye to Costa Rica as you head to San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. The first part of your drive will take you up to Peñas Blancas (the Costa Rica/Nicaragua border), an estimated 4-hour drive. This journey is accompanied by incredible views of the Gulf of Nicoya and quaint rural villages, until you reach the Pan-American Highway, where you’ll notice the change between the tropical rain forest and tropical dry forest, which characterizes the province of Guanacaste.

    After you drop off your Costa Rican rental car and go through immigration and the border crossing on your own, you’ll obtain your new rental car. From there, drive to San Juan del Sur, approximately one hour away. 

    A Tip For Your Trip: Car rental includes free mileage but does not include mandatory insurance, guarantee deposits, fuel nor any other additional services.

    Check-in - Hotel El Caite, San Juan del Sur

    San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
    4 out of 5 stars

    Situated within two blocks of the stunning San Juan del Sur beach, the Hotel El Caite provides the perfect location for guests to enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, diving, surfing, or even taking a boat ride.

    Offering a comfortable experience, the hotel boasts eight furnished guest rooms, each with modern amenities including two matrimonial beds, television, air conditioners, ceiling fans, a safe box, and hot water.

    The on-site gourmet restaurant serves a fusion menu, blending local ingredients to create the perfect dishes. This unique combination of flavors and atmosphere provides guests with a high-quality culinary experience.

    Day 7. San Juan del Sur

    Enjoy a free day in San Juan del Sur! Consider taking a hike up to the Christ statue overlooking the bay of San Juan. Pay a small entrance fee to enter the chapel, then admire the breathtaking views from this perfect vantage point.

    Later today, you might want to head back into town or lay out on one of San Juan's beautiful beaches like Playa Maderas or Playa Marsella. End your day with a delicious Nicaraguan treat like quesillo, a thick corn tortilla stuffed with soft cheese, pickled onions and vinegar.

    San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

    San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

    Day 8. San Juan del Sur

    On your own, you can enjoy the different beaches close to San Juan del Sur, like Chacocente, Punta Sardinas, Popoyo, El Yanqui, La Flor and Majahual. Also located nearby are the La Flor Wildlife refuge and Playa Hermosa Surf Camp, situated in 2000 acres of virgin beach.

    Beach in San Juan del Sur

    Beach • San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

    Day 9. San Juan del Sur - Granada

    Today you will continue your adventure by driving to Granada (approximately a 2-hour drive). Granada is the oldest city in Central America, founded in 1524. This city also lies on the north shore of the Nicaragua Lake, the biggest in Central America. 

    Take time to stroll the beautiful city and find a local restaurant to settle in.

    You'll be in one of these hotels, or similar, depending on availability

    Hotel Alhambra

    Granada, Nicaragua
    3 out of 5 stars
    1 of 2 hotels

    Located on the west side of Granada's Central Park, this beautiful hotel boasts a unique blend of modern amenities in a colonial atmosphere. Enjoy all the things that make you feel right at home: free WiFi, cable TV, on-site dining, and comfortable beds, all while feeling like you're in an old, neoclassic mansion. As you walk up to your room, admire the Hotel Alhambra's architecture, which complements the style of Granada through its warm color scheme, gorgeous domes, and impressive columns. Just a short walk from Lake Nicaragua, museums, restaurants, and historical structures, Hotel Alhambra is perfectly positioned for an exciting, convenient stay in Granada.

    Once you settle into your luxurious room, unpack your swimsuit and take a refreshing dip in the sparkling swimming pool. Then, relax in the hotel's lush garden with a cold drink in-hand! When you work up an appetite, indulge in a delicious meal at Hotel Alhambra's on-site restaurant, which serves up local and international favorites in a relaxed, traditional setting.

    Hotel Patio del Malinche

    Granada, Nicaragua
    3 out of 5 stars
    2 of 2 hotels

    Take in the lush surroundings and colonial style of Hotel Patio del Malinche. A 45-minute drive from the airport will bring you to the historical town center where you can visit the sights of the city, observe the locals, or relax in the park. The sun-dried brick houses and old style designs of the hotel will transport you to another time. Walk the grounds to take advantage of the beautiful garden, swimming pool, and the impressive views of the natural beauty surrounding the property. 

    Day 10. Granada

    Spend the day at leisure as you enjoy the local atmosphere of Granada. Head first to Central Plaza, surrounded by the Cathedral, which is a perfect place to enjoy a delicious Nicaraguan coffee. Stroll past the beautiful neo-classical building of the Casa Pellas and the old City Hall, then visit Fortín de la Pólvora and San Francisco Convent. 

    Since you have a car, you also have the option of touring the area surrounding Granada including the islets and Mombacho Volcano.

    Cathedral Plaza

    Cathedral Plaza • Granada, Nicaragua

    Day 11. Granada - Leon

    Today, continue to the city of Leon. The scenic road to Leon borders Lake Managua with impressive views of Momotombo. The Spanish conquistadors founded the first city of Leon in 1524 at the slopes of the Momotombo Volcano. Due to constant earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in 1610, this city was later relocated 53 miles further north from Managua. Settle into your accommodation, then explore the city at your leisure.

    Check-in - Hotel Austria, Leon

    Leon, Nicaragua
    3 out of 5 stars

    The Hotel Austria is conveniently situated just a block away from the center of León, an enticing colonial city. This establishment began accommodating guests in May 1998, and its location is particularly ideal for travelers who seek to feast their eyes on the city's colonial buildings and splendid churches.

    The Hotel Austria boasts 35 cozy rooms including Junior suites, Mini-suites or Family rooms, and Standard rooms. Each of these rooms is equipped with an air conditioner, cable TV, a private bathroom with hot water and shower, telephone, wireless internet, and a safe box.

    Beyond these amenities, guests can also access other services such as laundry, fax, car rental, money exchange, a restaurant, terrace with a rooftop, round-the-clock security, and private parking.

    Day 12. Leon

    Have the day to yourself! You could visit the Cathedral of Leon, El Cavario Church, Sutiaba Church, Hervideros de San Jacinto, a rum distillery or Juan Venado Natural Reserve. Enjoy one last meal before flying home tomorrow.

    El Cavario Church

    El Cavario Church • Leon, Nicaragua

    Day 13. Depart Nicaragua

    Your two-country adventure ends today. Drive to Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport in Managua (approximately 2 hours away), drop off your rental car and head to your departure gate.

    A Tip For Your Trip: Please allow enough time to return your rental car and remember that travelers are required to check in at the airport at least two hours in advance of their flight time.

    Fly home!

    We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.

    Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.

    Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.

    Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.

    Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.

    Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.

    Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.

    Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.

    Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to /travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy. 
    Package Overview

    Costa Rica & Nicaragua Highlights

    Best of both worlds!

    Squirrel monkey First spot   
    San Jose, Costa Rica

    Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

    Contemporary comfort in downtown San Jose

    The Sleep Inn Hotel Downtown San Jose Next spot   On a full map
    Fortuna, Costa Rica

    Lomas del Volcan Hotel

    Rustic wood cabins overlooking Arenal Volcano

    Lomas del Volcan Hotel Next spot   On a full map
    Monteverde, Costa Rica

    Trapp Family Lodge

    Nearest hotel to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    Trapp Family Lodge Next spot   On a full map
    San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

    Hotel El Caite, San Juan del Sur

    2 blocks from the beach

    Hotel El Caite, San Juan del Sur Next spot   On a full map
    Granada, Nicaragua

    Hotel Alhambra

    A colonial gem in the heart of Granada

    Hotel Alhambra in Granada, Nicaragua Next spot   On a full map
    Leon, Nicaragua

    Hotel Austria, Leon

    Comfortable hotel near León center

    Hotel Austria, Leon Start over On a full map

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