Costa Rica: Jungles and Java
Experience the land of "Pura Vida"
This 8-night vacation is Costa Rica in a nutshell - rolling green hills, rainforests, volcanoes, and tropical beaches. Add in friendly inhabitants, outstanding coffee, and tasty food and you have one of the best experiences south of North America!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in Naranjo at Chayote Lodge, or similar
- Half-day Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation Tour
- Transfer from Naranjo to Arenal Volcano area
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Arenal Manoa Resort, or similar
- Visit to Tabacon Springs
- Transfer from Arenal Volcano area to Manuel Antonio
- 3 nights in Manuel Antonio at the Si Como No Resort, or similar
- 1 night in San Jose at the Presidente Hotel San Jose, or similar
- Daily breakfast and 1 dinner
Great Ways to Explore
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Taste some of the best coffee in the world at a coffee plantation in Costa Rica's fertile central valley.
- Soak in healing thermal water at Tabacon Hot Springs, bordered by Arenal Volcano at one end and Arenal Volcano National Park on the other.
-
Get your adrenaline pumping on a thrilling zip line tour through the Arenal rainforest or walk across a gravity-defying hanging bridge!
-
Enjoy both sides of the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park: golden beaches and lush tropical rainforest.
-
Sample typical Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and casado, and don't forget guaro (Costa Rica's national drink).
"Pura Vida" is not just a saying in Costa Rica...it's a way of life! Experience the "pure life" in this Central American country, from picking your own coffee beans to hanging with Capuchin monkeys by the beach.
Begin your adventure in Costa Rica's fertile and hilly Central Valley, where most of the country's prized coffee is produced. Visit a coffee farm to learn about the fascinating process, then travel to the northern lowlands where you'll relax at hot springs underneath the imposing Arenal Volcano! Get in touch with your wild side in Arenal, where adrenaline junkies will go nuts over zip lining, hiking, and biking.
Your next destination is on the central Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio National Park. Sunbathe on its extensive white-sand beaches, then meet a few furry friends on a nature hike through the evergreen rainforest. End your Costa Rica adventure in the capital of San Jose before bidding the country goodbye.
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)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in Naranjo at Chayote Lodge, or similar
- Half-day Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation Tour
- Transfer from Naranjo to Arenal Volcano area
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Arenal Manoa Resort, or similar
- Visit to Tabacon Springs
- Transfer from Arenal Volcano area to Manuel Antonio
- 3 nights in Manuel Antonio at the Si Como No Resort, or similar
- 1 night in San Jose at the Presidente Hotel San Jose, or similar
- Daily breakfast and 1 dinner
-
Taste some of the best coffee in the world at a coffee plantation in Costa Rica's fertile central valley.
- Soak in healing thermal water at Tabacon Hot Springs, bordered by Arenal Volcano at one end and Arenal Volcano National Park on the other.
-
Get your adrenaline pumping on a thrilling zip line tour through the Arenal rainforest or walk across a gravity-defying hanging bridge!
-
Enjoy both sides of the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park: golden beaches and lush tropical rainforest.
-
Sample typical Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and casado, and don't forget guaro (Costa Rica's national drink).
"Pura Vida" is not just a saying in Costa Rica...it's a way of life! Experience the "pure life" in this Central American country, from picking your own coffee beans to hanging with Capuchin monkeys by the beach.
Begin your adventure in Costa Rica's fertile and hilly Central Valley, where most of the country's prized coffee is produced. Visit a coffee farm to learn about the fascinating process, then travel to the northern lowlands where you'll relax at hot springs underneath the imposing Arenal Volcano! Get in touch with your wild side in Arenal, where adrenaline junkies will go nuts over zip lining, hiking, and biking.
Your next destination is on the central Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio National Park. Sunbathe on its extensive white-sand beaches, then meet a few furry friends on a nature hike through the evergreen rainforest. End your Costa Rica adventure in the capital of San Jose before bidding the country goodbye.
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:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to San Jose!
After arriving at Juan Santamaria Int’l Airport (SJO), a Swiss Travel representative will meet you and provide information about your trip. From the airport, drive through the Central Mountain Range heading to your first destination in Naranjo.
After check in, enjoy the rest of the day and evening at leisure in Costa Rica's Central Valley.
Transfer to Naranjo hotel
Check-in - Chayote Lodge
Immerse yourself in greenery and escape to peace, serenity, and the true beauty of Costa Rica. Chayote Lodge presents a new lodging concept, where the unique combination of culture and nature meet to share with its guests one of the most valuable treasures of Costa Rica: its authentic lifestyle and culture. It features only 12 spacious bungalows, each with a private terrace, WiFi, and breathtaking views of the Poas, Barva, and Iraza Volcanos, as well as the Central Valley and the Nicoya Gulf in the Pacific Ocean, seen on clear days.
Inspired by the rich coffee culture of the region, each nook of the property resembles a piece of the coffee picker's story and their lifestyle. Moreover, Chayote Lodge's architecture and design integrates the most noteworthy elements of the coffee culture. For instance, the bungalows will look like the traditional Coffee Receiving Stations known locally as "Recibidores". The main building of the lodge offers an intimate fireplace, a fusion cuisine restaurant that mixes local flavors with international dishes, a terrace cafe and a popular bar where guests have the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their traditions.
Indulge in mouthwatering Costa Rican cuisine while gazing out at picture-perfect views of Central Valley and its volcanic range, the Gulf of Nicoya, and the green mountains that surround the property. Feel welcomed by the warm atmosphere of Quelites Restaurant, or enjoy the pleasant breeze at the terrace cafe! After dinner, cozy up around the main fireplace, unwind with a drink, and look through priceless photos from your day.Â
Day 2. Naranjo
Wake up this morning with a delicious Costa Rican breakfast and fresh coffee, then go deep into the history and culture of this ancient beverage on a tour of a coffee plantation. See how coffee was once transported on a traditional carreta!
Later in the afternoon, take an ecological walk along the paths of the hotel as you admire the flora and fauna.
Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation Tour (half-day)
Ever wondered where your daily cup of joe comes from? At the Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation in Naranjo, you'll learn all about coffee (and get to try some too). Surrounded by over 600 acres of top quality coffee plantations, Espiritu Santo (meaning "Holy Spirit") offers visitors a full immersive experience into growing, harvesting and roasting coffee beans. Learn the traditional methods that transform the small reddish fruits into one of the most popular beverages in the world. After the tour, stop by the souvenir shop and pick up a bag of beans to take home!
Day 3. Naranjo - Arenal Volcano
Mid-morning you will transfer to the northern lowlands, passing through the towns of Zarcero, San Carlos, and Florencia. Depending on the season, you will see pineapple, banana and sugar cane crops on your drive.
Arrive at La Fortuna Village in the late afternoon where the mighty Arenal Volcano will welcome you with its impressive perfect conic shape. This volcano has been active since 1969 and it has become one of the world’s most active volcanoes and one of Costa Rica’s main highlights. In the evening, visit the Tabacon Hot Springs to relax in the mineral-rich thermal waters.
Transfer to Arenal Volcano area
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.Â
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.Â
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.
Set at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, Volcano Lodge & Gardens offers comfortable accommodations in a lush tropical setting. Float away your stresses in the natural hot springs, then enjoy an adrenaline-packed adventure like white water rafting, hiking, ATV tours, ziplining and more. Easily book a tour from the hotel and explore the richness of this unspoiled region.
Rooms at Volcano Lodge feature a terrace, air conditioning, private bathroom, cable TV, and more. Wake up to the peaceful serenity of the Costa Rican countryside. Choose a relaxing deep massage at the Volcano Spa then enjoy a meal at Sura Bar & Bistro. Volcano Lodge is committed to sustainable tourism, so you can feel good about your stay.
Evening Visit to Tabacón Hot Springs
Visit the world famous Tabacón Hot Springs! These natural hot springs feature a hot river that flows through a series of pools. From cascading falls to tropical gardens, the hot springs are the result of rainwater heated by magma in the Earth’s interior.
Once heated, the waters rise to surface, taking with them minerals found in the earth’s rocky crust; this way, waters become very beneficial to your body because of its temperature that helps to relax muscles, clean pores and rejuvenate the skin. Tabacón is a unique location full of must-see natural jewels that cannot be missed when visiting the Arenal Volcano area.
Day 4. Arenal Volcano
Today is yours to explore the area. We highly recommend a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park (extra cost). The attraction of this volcano has helped to develop the area as a prime destination in the country; formerly a small town of cattle and agricultural farms, it is now home to tour attractions, adventure activities, hot springs and water sports.
Day 5. Arenal Volcano - Manuel Antonio
Travel to your next destination on the central Pacific coast - the famous Manuel Antonio National Park. Pass through a scenic mountain road with various climates and elevations until reaching the town of Quepos.
Arrive at Manuel Antonio National Park where you will be greeted by magnificent beaches and Pacific ocean. Check into your resort and spend the rest of the day lounging by the pool or relaxing in your airy room.
Transfer to Manuel Antonio
Guests will be in paradise while enjoying two swimming pools, with a waterslide, hot tubs and swim-up bars. There are complimentary beach shuttles throughout the day, and the hotel is only a three-minute walk to dozens of local restaurants, bars, and shops. If travelers prefer to stay on the property, they can dine at two open-air restaurants at Si Como No Resort & Spa. Each guest room has a balcony overlooking the gardens or Pacific Ocean.
Parador Resort & Spa is one of Costa Rica’s most prestigious eco-hotels and is considered the epitome of sustainable luxury. Located on the Punta Quepos promontory, the resort is surrounded by 12 acres of wildlife-rich tropical rainforest with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. From the resort, easily access Finca Naturales Wildlife Refuge, ADR Adventure Park, and Manuel Antonio Beach.
This award-winning resort has three ocean-view pools, full-service spa, outdoor tennis court, several restaurants featuring diverse menus, multiple bars, and lounges. The 32 luxurious panoramic suites feature cable TV, mini- bars, coffee makers, A/C and ceiling fans, safety deposit boxes and more. Parador’s daily breakfast buffet is included in the price of all rooms or suites, plus free WIFI throughout the resort and complimentary golf cart service for guests.Â
Day 6. Manuel Antonio
Have a beach day! The two main beaches inside the park are Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio. The latter is best known for its spectacular views, but if you’re looking to escape the crowds, venture a bit further down the main trail to Playa Espadilla Sur.
The park's light sand beaches are popular for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and surf lessons.Manuel Antonio's beaches are also known for their stunning, brightly-colored sunsets, so stick around and be treated to a show.
A Tip For Your Trip: Keep in mind Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Mondays.
Day 7. Manuel Antonio
While it may be the smallest park in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio is home to an abundance of wildlife. Capuchin, Howler, and Squirrel Monkeys are some of the most social creatures of the park and you will likely meet a few along the way. Hike the main trail, a 1.3-mile flat, sandy trail that links the park’s beaches. A slightly more challenging trail is Punta Catedral, a beautiful 0.9 mile loop trail with a few steep inclines.
Day 8. Manuel Antonio - San Jose
Today you will be transferred back to San Jose where you will enjoy one final evening at your leisure. Thanks to an influx of artists, foodies, and entrepreneurs, San Jose has become less of a stopover and more of a destination. Head to the downtown area and stop in one of the restaurants to try casado, a dish of meat, rice, plantains and beans. Toast to your last night with a shot of guaro, Costa Rica's national drink!
Transfer to San Jose
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. Â
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.Â
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.
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 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 9. Depart San Jose
Your Costa Rican adventure ends today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to San Jose Int’l Airport for your departure flight back home.