Costa Rica Highlights
Walk among the natural wonders of Costa Rica
Wander through the stunning and diverse landscapes of Costa Rica as you explore verdant rainforests, impressive volcanoes, and mysterious clouded jungles. Enjoy a boat ride to and from Tortuguero National Park, hike Arenal Volcano to soak in the hot springs near the top, and keep an eye out for native mammals while trekking through the jungle of Monteverde.
What's Included
- Roundtrip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- 1 night in San Jose at the Sleep Inn Paseo Las Damas, or similar
- Ground & boat transportation from San Jose to Tortuguero National Park
- 2 nights in the Tortuguero National Park area at the Laguna Lodge, or similar
- Visit to the Tortuguero Village and secondary canals
- Transfer from Guapiles (Tortuguero) to the Arenal Volcano area
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, or similar
- Half-day Arenal Volcano Hike & Tabacon Hot Springs
- Transfer from the Arenal Volcano area to the Monteverde area, including Arenal Lake crossing by boat
- 2 nights in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, at the Monteverde Country Lodge, or similar
- Half-day tour of Monteverde Cloud Forest Private Reserve
- Transfer from Monteverde area to San Jose
- 1 night in San Jose at the Autentico Hotel, or similar
- Daily breakfast, 3 lunches & 3 dinners
Great Ways to Explore
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Start and end your amazing journey in San Jose, coming full circle through a variety of surroundings.
- Board a boat to Tortuguero National Park and spend your time on the island sailing along the canals and visiting Tortuguero Village.
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Hike up Arenal Volcano to the natural hot springs waiting for you at the top.
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Enjoy the lush surroundings of dewy rain forest, arid volcanoes, and mysterious cloud forest.
-
Get a deeper understanding of the various ecosystems that live harmoniously among one another within the region.
Enter the vibrant life that inhabits Costa Rica on this 8 night adventure. Begin in San Jose with a quick overnight, then move on to Tortuguero, admiring the lush jungle waterfalls, banana farms, and volcano ranges as you make your way to the docks.
Tour Tortuguero National Park, watching turtles, birds and small mammals, and identifying rare and unique greenery that is protected over the island. You'll also get to cruise along the smaller canals and visit Tortuguero Village. Next, you'll move from humid jungle to steamy volcanoes.
Engage in an invigorating hike up Arenal Volcano to the hot springs at the top, passing through vegetation and cooled lava rock formations on the way. After your hike, you'll get a chance to relax in the springs.
From your sulfurous stay, you'll move on to misty, cloudy forest packed with dense vegetation and majestic trees. Monteverde is home to a plethora of animals and offers the chance to see the difference between a cloud forest and a rain forest. With so many varied and unique ecosystems so close to one another, this trip brings you the best that Costa Rica has to offer.
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.
- Roundtrip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- 1 night in San Jose at the Sleep Inn Paseo Las Damas, or similar
- Ground & boat transportation from San Jose to Tortuguero National Park
- 2 nights in the Tortuguero National Park area at the Laguna Lodge, or similar
- Visit to the Tortuguero Village and secondary canals
- Transfer from Guapiles (Tortuguero) to the Arenal Volcano area
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, or similar
- Half-day Arenal Volcano Hike & Tabacon Hot Springs
- Transfer from the Arenal Volcano area to the Monteverde area, including Arenal Lake crossing by boat
- 2 nights in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, at the Monteverde Country Lodge, or similar
- Half-day tour of Monteverde Cloud Forest Private Reserve
- Transfer from Monteverde area to San Jose
- 1 night in San Jose at the Autentico Hotel, or similar
- Daily breakfast, 3 lunches & 3 dinners
-
Start and end your amazing journey in San Jose, coming full circle through a variety of surroundings.
- Board a boat to Tortuguero National Park and spend your time on the island sailing along the canals and visiting Tortuguero Village.
-
Hike up Arenal Volcano to the natural hot springs waiting for you at the top.
-
Enjoy the lush surroundings of dewy rain forest, arid volcanoes, and mysterious cloud forest.
-
Get a deeper understanding of the various ecosystems that live harmoniously among one another within the region.
Enter the vibrant life that inhabits Costa Rica on this 8 night adventure. Begin in San Jose with a quick overnight, then move on to Tortuguero, admiring the lush jungle waterfalls, banana farms, and volcano ranges as you make your way to the docks.
Tour Tortuguero National Park, watching turtles, birds and small mammals, and identifying rare and unique greenery that is protected over the island. You'll also get to cruise along the smaller canals and visit Tortuguero Village. Next, you'll move from humid jungle to steamy volcanoes.
Engage in an invigorating hike up Arenal Volcano to the hot springs at the top, passing through vegetation and cooled lava rock formations on the way. After your hike, you'll get a chance to relax in the springs.
From your sulfurous stay, you'll move on to misty, cloudy forest packed with dense vegetation and majestic trees. Monteverde is home to a plethora of animals and offers the chance to see the difference between a cloud forest and a rain forest. With so many varied and unique ecosystems so close to one another, this trip brings you the best that Costa Rica has to offer.
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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Day 1. Welcome to San Jose!
Touchdown in sunny Costa Rica to meet with your representative who will supply you with all necessary documentation and your itinerary, as well as any other information you might need. Then you'll be transferred to your hotel to check-in for one night in preparation for the rest of your trip!
Transfer to hotel
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.
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.
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.
Day 2. San Jose - Tortuguero National Park
Rise early for a day of travel, beginning with a trip through the North Caribbean Plains where volcanic mountain ranges and jungle-enclosed waterfalls are on all sides, to the docks where you'll board a boat to sail to Tortuguero National Park, which sits comfortably on an island that can only be accessed by boat or aircraft.
Enjoy the leisurely boat ride through canals shaded by the rain forest as you make your way to Tortuguero. You'll have time to admire the unique birds that call the regional flora home before disembarking and making your way to the lodge where you'll spend the next two nights. You'll have the opportunity to stay in the lush national park, visit the village of Tortuguero to gain a deeper understanding of its colorful history, and learn about the the time and energy that goes into the conservation of the park, especially for the turtles that come to spawn each year.
Sail to Tortuguero National Park!
Transfer to hotel
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.
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.
Day 3. Tortuguero National Park
Today you'll get to navigate along the secondary canals by boat while experiencing a closeness to nature with your expert guides. Get the chance to encounter a variety of birds, reptiles, turtles, and forest mammals that call nearly 300 square miles of protected park home.
During certain times of the year, you can also choose to go on a separate nighttime excursion to watch newly-hatched baby turtles make their way to the water.
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.
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!
Day 4. Tortuguero National Park - Arenal Volcano
After breakfast, return to the mainland by boat and continue on through beautiful scenery and rural towns to La Fortuna de San Carlos. Look out to see the mighty Arenal Volcano standing over the town to welcome you. Check into your hotel and prepare for your upcoming adventure.
Transfer to boat
Sail to mainland
Transfer to Arenal Volcano
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.
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.
Day 5. Arenal Volcano
Take the morning to enjoy breakfast or sleep in, and then put on your hiking boots, because you'll be climbing through the Arenal Volcano trails to the Tabacon Hot Springs.
Hike past an amazing variety of flora and fauna as you climb among rocks that are composed of cooled lava. Enjoy the victory of climbing the volcano by soaking in the natural hot springs, then enjoying a delicious dinner before being transported back to your hotel.
Arenal Volcano
Spend the afternoon hiking up the active Arenal Volcano. While following the trails, you'll get the opportunity to see the wide variety of flora and fauna that thrives among the rich volcanic soil, as well as rock formations that have formed from lava that has cooled.
At the end of your hike, you will also get to soak in the natural Tabacon Hot Springs, and enjoy transportation back to the hotel.
Day 6. Arenal Volcano - Monteverde
Set out in the morning, waving goodbye to Arenal Volcano, and continue on to the next stop of your adventure, touring along the way.
Cross Arenal Lake, the largest and most important lake in Costa Rica, meander through the Tilaran Mountain Range, and finally enter the region known for its tropical cloud forests: Monteverde.
Stay two nights here, picking out activities in the area to try, like the Sky Walk, the Trapiche cultural tour, Horseback riding, the Butterfly Garden, and more.
Transfer from Arenal Volcano to Monteverde
Boat across Arenal Lake!
Located less than 10 minutes away from the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and within walking distance from downtown Santa Elena, Monteverde Country Lodge is the perfect option for those looking for cozy lodging and easy access to the stunning region. Providing guests with comfortable facilities and a warm environment, the lodge offers authentic Costa Rican hospitality. The grounds, neatly keep gardens, and cozy wood panelled rooms give the feel of a true mountain lodge.
Book a tour of the Monteverde Cheese Factory at the tour desk and dine on fresh cuisine at the restaurant. Guests of Monteverde Country Lodge can enjoy free access to facilities at it's sister property Hotel Poco a Poco, including an indoor pool, gym, hot tub and kids’ club.
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.
Arenal Volcano - Monteverde
Travel across Arenal Lake, through the beautiful scenery of the Tilaran Mountain Range, and finally arrive at the cloud forest of Monteverde.
This private sanctuary is known for its rich and diverse inhabitants, including majestic trees entangled with orchids, ferns, vines, and mosses, as well as a multitude of bird species and wildlife.
Day 7. Monteverde
Set out on a tour through Monteverde's Cloud Forest Private Reserve. Wander through and spot a beautiful array of bird species, stand in awe under majestic trees, and make your way through dense vegetation that provides a habitat for many animal species.
Learn about the different types of ecosystems in the region, the unique wildlife in the area, then spend the afternoon at leisure while mulling over your new information.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Private Reserve
Hike among a huge variety of plants, over 450 species of birds, and the solemn majesty of stoic trees as you discover the Monteverde Private Reserve for yourself. Providing a habitat for hundreds of species of flora and fauna, the reserve is an important link in the growing network of protected areas in Costa Rica.
Discover the amazing ecosystems that can thrive all within one region and admire the unique life that coexists with one another.
Day 8. Monteverde - San Jose
Make your way back to San Jose, traveling along sparkling coastlines, through imposing mountain ranges, and among thriving rain forest. Check into your hotel and spend your last full day picking out souvenirs and snapping photos!
Transfer to San Jose
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.
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.
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.
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.
Day 9. Depart San Jose
Pack your souvenirs safely and transfer to the airport for your flight home!
Transfer to airport
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.
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