Costa Rica Explorer Upgrade
Discover Costa Rica's hidden treasures
On this 11-night self-drive vacation, explore all of Costa Rica's hidden treasures! Visit exotic beaches, rainforests, cloud forests, waterfalls, and volcanoes in Central America's tropical playground. This upgraded Costa Rica vacation package includes upgraded hotels in each location!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Airport arrival transfer
- 1 night in San Jose at the Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose hotel to Tortuguero National Park; boat transfer to hotel
- 2 nights in Tortuguero at the Pachira Lodge, or similar
- Lunch and dinner daily while in Tortuguero
- All ground and boat transportation while in Tortuguero
- Tour the secondary Tortuguero Canals
- Visit to Tortuguero Village
- Automatic 4x4 car rental for 8 nights including unlimited mileage (Compact SUV - SsangYong Korando MT, or similar)
- Rental car will be brought to you on Day 4, return to SJO on Day 12
- 1 night in Bajos del Toro at the El Silencio Lodge & Spa, or similar
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort, or similar
- 1 night in the Celeste River area at the Hideaway Rio Celeste, or similar
- 3 nights in Guanacaste/Tamarindo at the Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort, or similar
- 1 night in San Jose at the Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 3 lunches & 2 dinners
Great Ways to Explore
Spend your first night in the bustling capital city of San Jose, known for its vibrant art, fascinating architecture and delicious cuisine!
- Watch turtles nest at Tortuguero National Park, then tour its canals and village!
-
Explore the secret waterfalls and rainforests of Bajos del Toro, one of the most beautiful areas in the country.
-
Hike, bike, and see the elusive Resplendent quetzal bird at Arenal Volcano and its national park.
-
Learn to surf in Guanacaste, a northwestern province on the Pacific known for its pristine beaches and perfect waves!
In Costa Rica, "pura vida" is the law of the land. Meaning pure life, it's not simply a phrase you'll hear a lot in Costa Rica, but a way of life! Embrace the optimistic attitude and natural beauty of this Central American jewel as you drive from city to rainforest to beach.
After a night in San Jose, your adventure begins in one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, Tortuguero National Park. Virtually untouched by man and only accessible by plane or boat, this rainforest region is one of the principal turtle nesting spots in the world. Tour its freshwater canals and lagoons by boat, zipline through a maze of tangled trees, and meet a few locals at the colorful Tortuguero village.
Then pick up your rental car and make your way to Bajos del Toro, an off-the-beaten-path town in Central Costa Rica. On the slopes of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, the town is home to a misty cloud forest reserve and the awe-inspiring Cataratas del Toro waterfall. Enjoy a range of outdoor activities from hiking to bird watching.
You will continue exploring the country as you drive towards the northern lowlands. There, discover two incredible natural attractions: Arenal Volcano and the Celeste River. Tour the diverse volcano region then see the river that winds through the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Admire the river's bright blue hue, which gets its shade from volcanic minerals!
Your final Costa Rican destination is on the North Pacific Coast in Guanacaste. Explore exotic beaches, learn to surf, or go hiking at the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Return to San Jose and spend one last night before saying goodbye to this tropical paradise.
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.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Airport arrival transfer
- 1 night in San Jose at the Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose hotel to Tortuguero National Park; boat transfer to hotel
- 2 nights in Tortuguero at the Pachira Lodge, or similar
- Lunch and dinner daily while in Tortuguero
- All ground and boat transportation while in Tortuguero
- Tour the secondary Tortuguero Canals
- Visit to Tortuguero Village
- Automatic 4x4 car rental for 8 nights including unlimited mileage (Compact SUV - SsangYong Korando MT, or similar)
- Rental car will be brought to you on Day 4, return to SJO on Day 12
- 1 night in Bajos del Toro at the El Silencio Lodge & Spa, or similar
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort, or similar
- 1 night in the Celeste River area at the Hideaway Rio Celeste, or similar
- 3 nights in Guanacaste/Tamarindo at the Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort, or similar
- 1 night in San Jose at the Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 3 lunches & 2 dinners
Spend your first night in the bustling capital city of San Jose, known for its vibrant art, fascinating architecture and delicious cuisine!
- Watch turtles nest at Tortuguero National Park, then tour its canals and village!
-
Explore the secret waterfalls and rainforests of Bajos del Toro, one of the most beautiful areas in the country.
-
Hike, bike, and see the elusive Resplendent quetzal bird at Arenal Volcano and its national park.
-
Learn to surf in Guanacaste, a northwestern province on the Pacific known for its pristine beaches and perfect waves!
In Costa Rica, "pura vida" is the law of the land. Meaning pure life, it's not simply a phrase you'll hear a lot in Costa Rica, but a way of life! Embrace the optimistic attitude and natural beauty of this Central American jewel as you drive from city to rainforest to beach.
After a night in San Jose, your adventure begins in one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, Tortuguero National Park. Virtually untouched by man and only accessible by plane or boat, this rainforest region is one of the principal turtle nesting spots in the world. Tour its freshwater canals and lagoons by boat, zipline through a maze of tangled trees, and meet a few locals at the colorful Tortuguero village.
Then pick up your rental car and make your way to Bajos del Toro, an off-the-beaten-path town in Central Costa Rica. On the slopes of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, the town is home to a misty cloud forest reserve and the awe-inspiring Cataratas del Toro waterfall. Enjoy a range of outdoor activities from hiking to bird watching.
You will continue exploring the country as you drive towards the northern lowlands. There, discover two incredible natural attractions: Arenal Volcano and the Celeste River. Tour the diverse volcano region then see the river that winds through the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Admire the river's bright blue hue, which gets its shade from volcanic minerals!
Your final Costa Rican destination is on the North Pacific Coast in Guanacaste. Explore exotic beaches, learn to surf, or go hiking at the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Return to San Jose and spend one last night before saying goodbye to this tropical paradise.
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.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
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Day 1. Welcome to San Jose!
Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) and meet a Swiss Travel representative who will provide you with all the necessary documentation, itinerary, and contact information. Then, transfer to San Jose where you'll spend your first night in Costa Rica.
Transfer to San Jose hotel
Check-in - Hotel Presidente
Located in San Jose's vibrant city core, Hotel Presidente is a 4-star hotel with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet, and try their luck at the hotel's casino. Guests can savor small plates, sip beverages, and dine indoors or al fresco at the hotel's on-site rooftop restaurant and bar.
Guest rooms have a private bathroom with a shower and hair dryer. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, phone, desk, in-room safe, wake-up service, and room service.
Nearby attractions include the Jade Museum and the Costa Rica National Museum, both within a 7-minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, the Costa Rican Art Museum is within a 17-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 2. San Jose - Tortuguero National Park
Get an early start with a strong cup of Costa Rican coffee as you head towards the Northern Caribbean lowlands. Admire the beautiful evergreen mountains at Braulio Carrillo National Park before arriving at the Caño Blanco Dock, where boats are waiting to transfer you to Tortuguero National Park. Enjoy a scenic boat ride through the canals, then tour Tortuguero village and meet some of the local inhabitants.
Transfer to Tortuguero National Park
Boat transfer to Tortuguero hotel
Check-in - Pachira Lodge
Pachira Lodge is a 4-star hotel located just minutes' away from Tortuguero National Park. On-site guests can enjoy exploring the rainforest, encounter wildlife, and witness unforgettable events such as sea turtle nesting.
Guests have access to the hotel's buffet-style restaurant that serves Costa Rican and Caribbean cuisine. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a bar, and spa services.
Guest rooms are bright and spacious, with views of the hotel's gardens. Amenities include a private bathroom, hair dryer, free Wi-Fi, and an in-room safe.
The hotel is conveniently situated facing the main lagoon, only a brief 5-minute boat ride from the National Tortuguero Park and just 3 minutes from the charming town that shares its name.
Secondary Tortuguero Canals Tour
Enjoy a scenic two and half hour boat ride through canals sheltered in the jungle of the Tortuguero rainforest. From the boat, admire the unique flora and fauna of this region. The maze of freshwater creeks and lagoons behind the beaches of Tortuguero are home to seven species of river turtles, crocodiles, otters, crustaceans, and over 50 species of freshwater fish. You are also likely to see at least three species of monkeys and dozens of species of birds!
Visit to Tortuguero Village
Visit the village of Tortuguero, a bustling and colorful town with strong Afro-Caribbean roots that's best known for attracting nesting sea turtles. Learn about the lifestyle of local residents and the significant conservation efforts that some NGOs have developed to protect turtles that come to spawn each year along the 22 miles of protected coastline.
Day 3. Tortuguero National Park
Spend the day touring this nature lovers' destination! Depending on weather conditions, enjoy a guided hike through the jungle and learn about the diverse flora and fauna.
Alternatively, explore the secondary canals and keep your eyes peeled for different species of monkeys, birds, and crocodiles. Much of the national park extends along unspoiled beaches that serve as refuge for nesting sea turtles, which lay their eggs between the months of July to September.
Day 4. Tortuguero National Park - Bajos del Toro
Mid-morning, transfer back to the local dock then head to Guapiles where you'll have lunch. Afterwards, collect your 4x4 vehicle which will be yours for the next eight days. You will be guided to your car pickup location.
From Guapiles, drive two hours to Bajos del Toro cloud forest, a misty valley located in the Central Mountain Range. As one of the most biodiverse areas in the country, Bajos del Toro sits approximately 4,500 feet above sea level between Poas Volcano and Juan Castro Blanco National Park. Its wet climate and cool air create the perfect conditions for spectacular scenery of moss-covered trees and violet orchids, plus waterfalls, streams and natural pools.
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature in this secluded part of Costa Rica!
Check-in - El Silencio Lodge & Spa
El Silencio Lodge & Spa is a 4-star establishment nestled within a 500-acre lush nature reserve. As a proud member of Relais & Châteaux in Costa Rica, this hotel serves as a captivating gateway to the ethereal beauty of the mystical cloud forest.
The hotel features a spa where guests can indulge in organic treatments including nail treatments, massage therapy, body treatments, facials, and more. Yoga classes by the creek and a daily breakfast with fresh fruits, pastries, and Costa Rican cuisine are available. The hotel offers four dining options: Las Ventanas for panoramic views and farm-to-table dishes, Toro Bohemio Bar for cocktails and wine, Rancho Orquideas for private dining, and Sofia's Cafe for coffee and pastries.
Guest rooms are designed with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open up to a private deck and heated whirlpool. There is a private bathroom with a hair dryer, bathrobes, and slippers. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, pillow-top beds, a minibar, in-room safe, a TV, and coffee maker. Additionally, room service is available.
Step right outside your door and dive into nature's playground! With guided hikes through lush cloud forests and thrilling wildlife encounters just moments away, the hotel activities promise unparalleled adventures.
Day 5. Bajos del Toro - Arenal Volcano
Today, explore the cloud forest on your own. Hike the different trails winding through the forest as you discover the innumerable species of plants, flowers and exotic birds.
In the afternoon, set out for the northern lowlands and pass towns like Venecia and Aguas Zarcas. Along the way, enjoy views of the mountains and agriculture. Depending on the season, you’ll see pineapple, banana and/or sugar cane crops.
Arrive late afternoon in La Fortuna Village, where the mighty Arenal Volcano will welcome you with its impressive conic shape. Check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Check-in - Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort
Enjoy spectacular views of Arenal Volcano at the Hotel Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs. Surrounded by gardens, pastures and animals, you will feel one with nature while staying at this hotel. Take advantage of the spacious gardens for walking and meditation and see the daily operations of a typical Costa Rican farm.
Hotel features include a full-service spa, outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi, fine dining restaurant, and more. Book one of several tours offered at the hotel including a visit to a nearby dairy farm, ziplining, hikes, canopy tours, and river rafting. Each of the rooms feature floor to ceiling windows and terraces for unparalleled views of the majestic volcano.
Day 6. Arenal Volcano
Today you have the entire day to explore the Arenal region at leisure. Pay a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the dormant Arenal Volcano. Once a small town of cattle and agricultural farms, it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica with an abundance of outdoor and adventure activities.
Tour Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, Venado Caves, La Fortuna Waterfall, or partake in one of many activities offered in the area, such as river floating, nature walks, hot springs, ziplining, canyoning, rafting, hiking, and horseback riding.
Day 7. Arenal Volcano - Celeste River
Get an early start today and drive to the Celeste River National Park, located near the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Spend a couple of hours in the park where you can see a cascading waterfall, look-out point and blue lagoon. Explore trails taking you to the idyllic “Teñideros” where the river merges with a small creek.
The river obtains its spectacular blue color from different volcanic minerals, and local legend says that when God finished painting heaven, he washed the brush in the Celeste River!
Check-in - Hideaway Rio Celeste
Tucked into a colorful rainforest just a few kilometers away from the Tenorio Volcano National Park, the 4-star Hideaway Rio Celeste is the perfect blend of natural beauty and luxurious vibrancy. By combining the elements of contemporary accommodations with mother nature's peaceful offerings, this resort offers something truly unique.
Become mesmerized by the bursting colors of the nearby rainforest, the electrifying blue waterfalls, and the lively décor made to honor Costa Rica's biodiversity. Rest well in one of the dozens of 'casitas' (small houses) offered by the resort, all of which are designed to help guests relax and unwind near nature, all without sacrificing comfort.
Each room comes with massive windows overlooking either the garden or the forest, a flat screen TV, Wi-Fi, room service, mini fridge, and a stunning outdoor open-air shower reminiscent of a luxury spa. Fall asleep to the sounds of nature, with occasional visits by local wildlife such as monkeys playing on the roof.
Get easy access to the rainforest's best scenery via a direct walkway leading to the gorgeous natural attraction. Hiking, biking, and other activities with optional tours are available; many guests find themselves taking extra gear to swim or dive in the waterfalls. Guests may enjoy local delicacies and gourmet cuisine right at the resort itself, serving food from breakfast all the way to a late evening dinner.
Adults can take advantage of the on-site spa to treat themselves to a pampering day full of self-care, revitalizing treatments, and massages. A fitness facility is located near the spa for easy access.
Nearby activities of interest include visiting the Rio Celeste Waterfall, Arenal Volcano, and the Palo Verde National Park. More information about booking these excursions can be acquired by chatting with the concierge and/or tour desk staff.
Day 8. Celeste River - Guanacaste Beaches
In the morning, hike to Celeste River or visit Bijagua Village for a taste of true Costa Rican rural life. The village, around rolling hills and creeks, is full of plantation fields and cheese factories.
Then, continue your drive to the Papagayo Gulf on the North Pacific Coast. On the route, enjoy panoramic views of Miravalles Volcano until you reach the Pan-American Highway. Here you will begin to notice the change from rainforest into tropical dry forest that characterizes the entire Guanacaste Province. Get your first glimpse of the beautiful, world-famous beaches set amidst jungle landscape, and watch the sunset as you end the day.
A Tip For Your Trip: You may want to stop at the Hanging Bridges along the way (20 minutes from Celeste area). Allow approximately 2 hours for the visit.
Check-in - Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
As the recipient of a handful of awards in recent years, the Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort is a 4-star tropical oasis nestled along the stunning shores of Tamarindo, Costa Rica. The resort offers an unparalleled experience blending luxury with the natural beauty of the region.
Standard guest rooms are designed for comfort and style, featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private balconies overlooking lush gardens or the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
Guests may indulge in culinary delights at the resort's diverse dining options, including beachfront seafood at Matapalo, authentic Italian cuisine at Nari, and tropical cocktails at the Sunset Bar. A breakfast bar is provided in the early morning hours for guests to help get a nourishing start to their day.
What sets Hotel Tamarindo Diria apart is its prime location, steps away from Tamarindo Beach's golden sands and vibrant surf culture. Guests can explore nearby attractions like the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge or embark on thrilling adventures such as zip-lining and snorkeling.
Back at the resort, relax and rejuvenate at the on-site spa, offering a range of massages and treatments inspired by Costa Rica's natural ingredients. Stay active at the fitness center or unwind by one of the resort's FOUR swimming pools, all surrounded by lush gardens.
Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort offers an unforgettable escape amidst the beauty of Costa Rica's Pacific coast.
Day 9. Guanacaste Beaches
Enjoy your first day in the Guanacaste province! Known for its dry weather, beautiful beaches and numerous national parks, Guanacaste is unlike any other part of Costa Rica. Located in the far northwest, the province is a wide, flat expanse of grasslands and dry tropical forest.
Spend the day relaxing on Playa Hermosa or get your adrenaline pumping with canopy/zip line tours, river rafting, horseback riding, forest hiking, or fishing.
Day 10. Guanacaste Beaches
Take your pick of one of the many national parks in Guanacaste. Visit Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica's first national park established in 1972. The park covers most of the Santa Elena peninsula and is perhaps most famous for La Casona, the nation’s most cherished historic monument.
You could also visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park, known for its namesake active volcano as well as several other volcanic peaks, waterfalls, lagoons and more.
Day 11. Guanacaste Beaches - San Jose
Today you will drive back to San Jose which should take you around 4 to 5 hours. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
At night, sample Costa Rican's national dish of gallo pinto, a simple dish of rice and beans.
Check-in - Hotel Presidente
Located in San Jose's vibrant city core, Hotel Presidente is a 4-star hotel with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet, and try their luck at the hotel's casino. Guests can savor small plates, sip beverages, and dine indoors or al fresco at the hotel's on-site rooftop restaurant and bar.
Guest rooms have a private bathroom with a shower and hair dryer. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, phone, desk, in-room safe, wake-up service, and room service.
Nearby attractions include the Jade Museum and the Costa Rica National Museum, both within a 7-minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, the Costa Rican Art Museum is within a 17-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 12. Depart Costa Rica
It's time to say goodbye to paradise. Return your car at Juan Santamaria International Airport then make your way to your departure gate for your flight home