PURA VIDA!
Costa Rica Explorer
From
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Per Person
11
Nights
Limited Time Special Offer
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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.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Airport arrival transfer
- 1 night in San Jose at the Autentico Hotel, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose hotel to Tortuguero National Park; boat transfer to hotel
- 2 nights in Tortuguero at the Laguna 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 Bosque de Paz Lodge, or similar
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, or similar
- 1 night in the Celeste River area at the Celeste Mountain Lodge, or similar
- 3 nights in Guanacaste/Tamarindo at the Wyndham Esplendor Tamarindo, or similar
- 1 night in San Jose at the Autentico Hotel, 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.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Airport arrival transfer
- 1 night in San Jose at the Autentico Hotel, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose hotel to Tortuguero National Park; boat transfer to hotel
- 2 nights in Tortuguero at the Laguna 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 Bosque de Paz Lodge, or similar
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, or similar
- 1 night in the Celeste River area at the Celeste Mountain Lodge, or similar
- 3 nights in Guanacaste/Tamarindo at the Wyndham Esplendor Tamarindo, or similar
- 1 night in San Jose at the Autentico Hotel, 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!
Package Overview
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.
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Package ID: PK-GC4P-SH-CRE-SJO
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
San Jose,
Costa Rica
1 of 4 hotels
The Autentico Hotel, a city property that offers a privileged location near downtown San Jose, remains true to its origins and preserves traditions together with an excellent quality of service. Rooms are elegant and simple, offering free WiFi, air-conditioning, and complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, restaurant, and bar. Nearby attractions include the Costa Rican Art Museum, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Theater of Costa Rica. The Juan Santamaria International Airport is only a 15 minute drive away.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
2 of 4 hotels
Experience luxurious comfort in the heart of San Jose at this contemporary, convenient hotel. Walk into the lobby and be greeted by bright colors, stylish decor, and a friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and find large, comfortable beds, free WiFi, plasma TVs, and tons of other modern amenities. Feeling a bit hungry? Raid the minibar, call room service, or grab a bite to eat at the elegant on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the outdoor pool! Jump in and make a splash, then lounge in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the gym, or explore the area. At the Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, you'll always feel the perfect balance of entertained and relaxed.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
3 of 4 hotels
Experience elegant luxury at the stylish Radisson San Jose, located less than 4 km from the city's bustling downtown area. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then admire the hotel's trendy decor as you walk to your room. Open your door to free WiFi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, bottled water, a refrigerator, and much more. Feel secluded in your cozy room that boasts blackout curtains, large comfy beds, and gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Unpack your suitcase and head to the outdoor pool! Lounge in the hot sun with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in and make a splash. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at either of the hotel's two on-site restaurants: Acuarelas Restaurant or Cafe Tropical. After dinner, dance the night away at buzzing Bar Jobo, the hotel's lively lounge that offers live music and handcrafted cocktails. Take a walk through the lush garden, then take in the pleasant breeze from the outdoor patio.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
4 of 4 hotels
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 - 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
Tortuguero,
Costa Rica
1 of 2 hotels
Get in touch with your wild side at Laguna Lodge in Tortuguero National Park, located on Costa Rica's northern Caribbean coast. In this verdant land, rivers, lakes, and wetlands shelter a lush jungle of primary forests and exotic plants where monkeys jump tree to tree and turtles nest. The lodge, built on a narrow strip of land between Tortuguero´s main lagoon and the Caribbean Sea, is only accessible by boat, much like the rest of the national park.
All of the 106 are rooms spread across six acres of beautiful gardens. Rooms are equipped to ensure a pleasant stay: private bath, ceiling fan, reading lamps, and a safety deposit box. Book one of many nature tours offered at the lodge including tours of the frog pond and botanical gardens.
Tortuguero,
Costa Rica
2 of 2 hotels
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Tortuguero, right inside the lush rainforest of Tortuguero National Park, is the cozy Evergreen Lodge. The hotel is set on the Laguna Penitencia canal and offers beautiful views.
Hotel amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, wellness center with spa, outdoor terrace, dining room with buffet meals, and a bar. Guests can book nature tours through the hotel or enjoy scenic hikes and other activities in the area.
Guest rooms are comfortably decorated with everything a traveler needs. Amenities include a seating area, ceiling fan, safe, and private bathroom with shower. Free Wi-Fi is also available.
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.
Tortuguero National Park • Costa Rica
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!
Zarcero,
Costa Rica
1 of 2 hotels
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this lush jungle paradise. Feel surrounded by cloud forests, vibrant greenery, bright flowers, crystal-clear waters, and tons of wildlife! In the mood to check out the buzzing capital city? Not to worry - San Jose is just under 90 minutes away.
As soon as you step on the grounds of Bosque de Paz, you'll feel all worries slip away. Open the door to your well-decorated room and fall into an instant state of peace and harmony. Find large cozy beds, ample space, flooding natural light, beautiful woodwork, local pottery, picture-perfect views, and much more. Take a walk through local orchids, hike scenic trails, then kick back and relax at the lodge's common areas. Socialize with other guests, watch some TV, play board games, or grab a book from the library. Sit on any of the outdoor terraces and enjoy the fresh, pleasant breeze.
When it's time to eat, indulge in typical homemade Costa Rican dishes and taste the mouthwatering flavors of the country. In addition to delicious food, the lodge's restaurant offers a 180-degree view of the butterfly garden and surrounding forest. Enjoy endless complimentary coffee, a warm atmosphere, and unforgettable sunsets over the tropical beauty of Bosque de Paz.
San Ramon,
Costa Rica
2 of 2 hotels
Nestled within the lush tropical cloud forest of Los Angeles Private Biological Reserve, this eco-friendly resort boasts a spa and a functioning farm. The luxurious cabins offer picturesque jungle vistas and complimentary internet.
Designed to resemble a small hamlet, the expansive cabins at Villa Blanca feature an inviting fireplace and a veranda or terrace. Each abode is adorned with tasteful decor and handcrafted furnishings, including cozy rocking chairs.
Villa Blanca Hotel & Nature Reserve organizes both day and night tours of the awe-inspiring cloud forest. The courteous staff can also coordinate excursions to the Volcano Poás National Park, situated 31 miles away.
The resort's restaurant serves delectable Costa Rican cuisine made from homegrown organic produce while offering breathtaking jungle views. The charming lobby bar is equipped with comfortable sofas and a warming fireplace.
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.
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
1 of 3 hotels
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa is committed to 100% nature-loving consciousness, and the vision of being an ecotourism model. Located in the small, friendly town of Fortuna, it offers amazing, close views of the Arenal Volcano) one of the youngest and most active volcanoes in northern Costa Rica), Cerro Chato (an inactive volcano next to Arenal), and the majestic Los Perdidos, surrounded by mountains. The hotel boasts a distinctive design, with rustic colonial-type architecture.
Arenal,
Costa Rica
2 of 3 hotels
Get away to the exotic retreat of the Arenal Paraiso Resort and Spa, which offers its guests a complete spa and wellness center, with massages, 2 saunas, and a fitness center. Those at the Paraiso can also enjoy on-site restaurants and shops, buffet breakfast, free Wi-Fi available in shared spaces, 13 pools with thermo-mineral water, a standard swimming pool, and natural walking paths. Private parking and car rental services are also available.
Rooms all feature amazing views of the Arenal Volcano, as well as a terrace or balcony, a cable TV, a coffee maker, and a provate bathroom including a hairdryer and toiletries. This resort offers the serenity of nature, and is a 2-hour drive away from Juan Santamaria International Airport.
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
3 of 3 hotels
Hotel Arenal Springs is located near natural hot springs in Fortuna, a 20 minute drive from the Arenal Volcano site. Soak in rich mineral waters in the middle of Costa Rica's beautiful tropical rainforest! You'll never be bored because this hotel offers a wide variety of activities from zip lining to river rafting to mountain biking.
In addition to the hot springs, the hotel features three outdoor swimming pools including a children's pool. Unwind with a drink at one of the hotel's bars, including a poolside bar and a bar/lounge. Dine on international, Italian, and Japanese cuisine at three on-site restaurants. Bright and airy rooms feature flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, terraces, private bathrooms and views of the garden and Arenal Volcano and the garden.
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.
Arenal Volcano • Costa Rica
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!
Bijagua,
Costa Rica
1 of 3 hotels
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica at the Celeste Mountain Lodge, nestled in-between two majestic volcanoes. The lodge opens its doors to the spectacular Rio Celeste, and is right near the trail of the National Park Volcan Tenorio and Bijagua! Celeste Mountain Lodge is a bit of a jungle in itself, as vibrant exotic plants fill its common areas and hang from its ceilings. Walk through this unique lodge and find flooding natural light, huge windows, exposed wooden beams, suspended balcony walkways, and much more.
Open the door to your spacious room and be wowed by the amazing views of volcanoes, rainforests, valleys, or gardens. Who knew sunsets from your room could be so magical! Take a nap on your comfy bed, rejuvenate with a hot shower, and enjoy the lodge's free WiFi. Indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at the on-site restaurant, offering both delicious food and gorgeous garden views. Unwind with a drink on the outdoor terrace and enjoy the pleasant breeze as you watch the orange sun sink into the mountains.
Bijagua,
Costa Rica
2 of 3 hotels
The Heliconias Rainforest Lodge is a perfect place for nature lovers. The lodge is located in Bijagua and provides guests the opportunity to experience the rainforest and enjoy a surplus of activities like horseback riding, night tours, chocolate tours, and hot springs. The lodge also offers free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and parking.
Guest rooms are equipped with a private bathroom and shower. Additionally, rooms include a desk, towels, and a furnished patio.
The nearest airport is the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, which is approximately 35 miles away from the Heliconias Rainforest Lodge.
Bijagua,
Costa Rica
3 of 3 hotels
Casitas Tenorio is a bed and breakfast and working farm. There is wildlife all around making for valuable and unique memories. Guests can take part in activities like hiking, bird watching, horseback riding and more. There is a morning farm tour where guests can feed the animals and milk the cows. Guests also have the opportunity to explore the rainforest. Casitas Tenorio offers homemade breakfast to guests as well.
Guest rooms are nestled in beautiful, tropical gardens. Amenities include a refrigerator, Wi-Fi, an in-room safe, private bathroom, coffee maker, and microwave.
While the hotel doesn't have any on-site restaurants, there are plenty that are easy to access in town. Nearby attractions include Tenorio Volcano National Park and Llanos de Cortez Waterfall.
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.
Tamarindo,
Costa Rica
1 of 3 hotels
Located in one of the most beautiful corners of Costa Rica, Wyndham Tamarindo offers relaxed and comfortable accommodations, where natural beauty, adventure and elegance combine to perfection. It features 104 bright and spacious seaview guestrooms decorated with unique elements of the region, outstanding local cuisine, exclusive access to the Langosta Beach Club, and a pampering wellness center providing a variety of refreshing treatments designed to create a perfect balance of mind, body and spirit.
Playa Hermosa,
Costa Rica
2 of 3 hotels
Bosque del Mar is located right on the beach in Playa Hermosa. Guest rooms are all suite-style and feature television, sitting area, and minibar with fridge.There is an onsite restaurant as well as a bar. The hotel features a beachfront property, gardens, and a swimming pool.
Guanacaste Beach,
Costa Rica
3 of 3 hotels
This gorgeous beachfront hotel is located on Playa Portrero. The hotel has two restaurants and Café de Sol which is a bakery, bistro, lounge, and rooftop bar all in one. In addition to that, the hotel has a swim up pool and snack bar, and a spa that offers massages and body treatments.
Guest rooms are spacious and many have a view of the ocean. Amenities include air-conditioning, a private bathroom with shower, TV, Wi-Fi, and minibar. There is also a coffee maker, safe, hair-dryer, and desk. Room service is also available.
Bahia de Sol is just minutes from some great attractions. Reserva Concal Golf Course and Las Baulas National Marina Park are both within a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Additionally, Tamarindo Airport is closest to the hotel, and Playa Flamingo is just a short 5-minute drive away.
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.
Guanacaste beach • Costa Rica
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.
Rincon de la Vieja National Park • Costa Rica
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.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
1 of 5 hotels
The Autentico Hotel, a city property that offers a privileged location near downtown San Jose, remains true to its origins and preserves traditions together with an excellent quality of service. Rooms are elegant and simple, offering free WiFi, air-conditioning, and complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, restaurant, and bar. Nearby attractions include the Costa Rican Art Museum, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Theater of Costa Rica. The Juan Santamaria International Airport is only a 15 minute drive away.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
2 of 5 hotels
Located just northwest of downtown San José, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica offers a modern retreat near local markets, restaurants, and shops. Land at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), and take our free shuttle to the hotel, where you can kick off your vacation beside our two outdoor pools or at the on-site Mambi Restaurant. Ready to explore? Delve into local history at the Pueblo Antiguo, or browse the stores at Plaza Real Cariari.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
3 of 5 hotels
Experience luxurious comfort in the heart of San Jose at this contemporary, convenient hotel. Walk into the lobby and be greeted by bright colors, stylish decor, and a friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and find large, comfortable beds, free WiFi, plasma TVs, and tons of other modern amenities. Feeling a bit hungry? Raid the minibar, call room service, or grab a bite to eat at the elegant on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the outdoor pool! Jump in and make a splash, then lounge in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the gym, or explore the area. At the Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, you'll always feel the perfect balance of entertained and relaxed.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
4 of 5 hotels
Experience elegant luxury at the stylish Radisson San Jose, located less than 4 km from the city's bustling downtown area. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then admire the hotel's trendy decor as you walk to your room. Open your door to free WiFi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, bottled water, a refrigerator, and much more. Feel secluded in your cozy room that boasts blackout curtains, large comfy beds, and gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Unpack your suitcase and head to the outdoor pool! Lounge in the hot sun with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in and make a splash. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at either of the hotel's two on-site restaurants: Acuarelas Restaurant or Cafe Tropical. After dinner, dance the night away at buzzing Bar Jobo, the hotel's lively lounge that offers live music and handcrafted cocktails. Take a walk through the lush garden, then take in the pleasant breeze from the outdoor patio.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
5 of 5 hotels
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 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
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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 https://www.greatvaluevacations.com/travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.
Tortuguero, Costa Rica
Laguna Lodge
Eco lodge nestled in Tortuguero National Park
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Zarcero, Costa Rica
Bosque de Paz Lodge
Culture-packed oasis in the heart of the jungle
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Fortuna, Costa Rica
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa
A vision of being an ecotourism-friendly hotel
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Bijagua, Costa Rica
Celeste Mountain Lodge
Pristine nature environment with unique contemporary design
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Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Wyndham Tamarindo
Combines natural beauty, adventure and elegance
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