Mother Nature!
Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Mangroves & Beaches
From
*
Per Person
8
Nights
Limited Time Special Offer
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Explore Costa Rica's incredible landscapes
Where else in the world can you see active volcanoes one day and lush mangroves the next? In this 8-night vacation, experience Costa Rica's stunning natural diversity with the freedom of your own car. From Poas Volcano to Tamarindo beach in Guanacaste, travel across Central America's jewel, discovering one natural wonder after another.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into San Jose (SJO), out of Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR)
- Automatic 4x4 car rental for 8 nights including unlimited mileage (Intermediate SUV - Hyundai Tucson or similar)
- 1 night in Naranjo at Chayote Lodge, or similar
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at Hotel Arenal Springs, or similar
- 2 nights in Puerto Humo at Rancho Humo, or similar
- Lunch and dinner daily while in Puerto Humo
- 3 nights in Guanacaste/Tamarindo at the Wyndham Esplendor Tamarindo, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches & 2 dinners
Great Ways to Explore
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Watch smoke and steam rise from Poas Volcano, one of Costa Rica's largest and most active volcanoes!
- Get your adrenaline pumping in the Arenal Volcano area which has an abundance of activities from zip lining to hiking.
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Explore ecological wetlands and mangroves at Rancho Humo and spot a variety of birds like egrets and herons.
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Explore the Guanacaste province and see why Northwestern Costa Rica truly has it all!
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Travel by car to the most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica, Llanos de Cortes, and take a dip in the pond.
Drive across Costa Rica and experience its many natural wonders, from steamy volcanoes to white sand beaches. See why Costa Rica is a top ecotourism destination and fall in love with the country's famously laid-back attitude and easygoing lifestyle.
Land in San Jose then drive about an hour to Naranjo, where you'll spend one night. Cruise along coffee and flower farms until you reach the bubbling Poas volcano, then explore the fascinating volcanic landscape. Continue your journey north to Arenal Volcano, another of Costa Rica's famous volcanoes. See Arenal's tropical rainforest as you catch 360 degree views of the dormant volcano.
You'll then continue to Rancho Humo, a private natural reserve home to the country's ecological wetlands and mangroves! Relax in this serene locale on the Tempisque River and see the region's varied wildlife peeking out of the trees.
Conclude your trip in Guanacaste province in Northwestern Costa Rica, home to volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches! See the stunning Llanos de Cortes Waterfall, lounge in peace at Playa Hermosa, and explore volcanic craters at Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
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 into San Jose (SJO), out of Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR)
- Automatic 4x4 car rental for 8 nights including unlimited mileage (Intermediate SUV - Hyundai Tucson or similar)
- 1 night in Naranjo at Chayote Lodge, or similar
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at Hotel Arenal Springs, or similar
- 2 nights in Puerto Humo at Rancho Humo, or similar
- Lunch and dinner daily while in Puerto Humo
- 3 nights in Guanacaste/Tamarindo at the Wyndham Esplendor Tamarindo, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches & 2 dinners
Great Ways to Explore
-
Watch smoke and steam rise from Poas Volcano, one of Costa Rica's largest and most active volcanoes!
- Get your adrenaline pumping in the Arenal Volcano area which has an abundance of activities from zip lining to hiking.
-
Explore ecological wetlands and mangroves at Rancho Humo and spot a variety of birds like egrets and herons.
-
Explore the Guanacaste province and see why Northwestern Costa Rica truly has it all!
-
Travel by car to the most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica, Llanos de Cortes, and take a dip in the pond.
Package Overview
Drive across Costa Rica and experience its many natural wonders, from steamy volcanoes to white sand beaches. See why Costa Rica is a top ecotourism destination and fall in love with the country's famously laid-back attitude and easygoing lifestyle.
Land in San Jose then drive about an hour to Naranjo, where you'll spend one night. Cruise along coffee and flower farms until you reach the bubbling Poas volcano, then explore the fascinating volcanic landscape. Continue your journey north to Arenal Volcano, another of Costa Rica's famous volcanoes. See Arenal's tropical rainforest as you catch 360 degree views of the dormant volcano.
You'll then continue to Rancho Humo, a private natural reserve home to the country's ecological wetlands and mangroves! Relax in this serene locale on the Tempisque River and see the region's varied wildlife peeking out of the trees.
Conclude your trip in Guanacaste province in Northwestern Costa Rica, home to volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches! See the stunning Llanos de Cortes Waterfall, lounge in peace at Playa Hermosa, and explore volcanic craters at Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
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-CRVM-SJO
Day 1. Welcome to San Jose!
Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) and pick up your rental car to start your Costa Rica adventure! From San Jose, drive to Naranjo and check into your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day or night at leisure.
Est. driving time: 1 hourÂ
Naranjo,
Costa Rica
1 of 2 hotels
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
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.Â
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 2. Naranjo - Arenal Volcano
See Poas Volcano if you didn't catch it last night, then begin the journey to Arenal Volcano (about a 2 hour drive). This route offers beautiful scenery accompanied by picturesque rural towns like Rio Cuarto, Aguas Zarcas and La Fortuna de San Carlos.
If weather conditions are favorable, you'll be able to see one of the greatest natural attractions of the country: the impressive Arenal Volcano. Arenal has been the country’s most active volcano for the past 43 years!
Est. driving time: 2 1/4 hours
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
1 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.
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
2 of 3 hotels
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.
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
3 of 3 hotels
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
Day 3. Arenal Volcano
This day is yours to enjoy the tourist attractions around Arenal Volcano. If you're up for an adventure, head to Sky Adventure Park for the Sky Tram & Sky Trek. The tour combines ascending to the top of the mountain by Sky Tram with an exhilarating decline by zip line!
If you prefer a calmer excursion, pay a visit to Arenal Hanging Bridges, a collection of 16 hanging bridges immersed in the rainforest. Walk along the bridges as you admire magnificent views of Arenal Volcano, and keep your eyes peeled for mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and insects that live in the rainforest.Â
Arenal Volcano • Costa Rica
Day 4. Arenal Volcano - Puerto Humo
After breakfast, drive 3½ hours to Palo Verde National Park. On the way, enjoy panoramic views of Arenal Lake as you continue through the village of Cañas across La Amistad Bridge.
Est. driving time: 3 1/2 hours
A Tip For Your Trip: Plan to arrive at your accommodation around noon if you would like to have lunch. If you arrive later in the afternoon, your included lunch will be on day 6 instead.
Check-in - Rancho Humo Estancia
Nicoya,
Costa Rica
Experience the cultural accents of a safari lodge blended with the traditional luxury of a Guanacaste ranch. Escape to the Rancho Humo Estancia, a relaxing retreat filled with artsy furniture, lush jungle grounds, breathtaking views, and modern amenities. Explore nearby trails, watch unforgettable sunsets, and visit the on-site lagoon, home to birds, crocodiles, caimans, green iguanas, and more.
Open the door to your spacious room and find flat-screen TVs, WiFi, air-conditioning, a coffee-maker, and more. Take a nap on your large comfy bed, rejuvenate with a rain shower, and gaze out at beautiful views of vibrant greenery,
Take in the beauty of the vast countryside as you soak up the warm Costa Rican sunshine on the hotel's sundeck. Relax with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in the sparkling pool and make a splash! Pamper yourself with a decadent spa treatment, then unwind in the lobby lounge. Enjoy a complimentary tour of Rancho Humo's wetland reserve in the hotel's safari vehicle. Look out for goat, deer, cattle, and other friendly faces! Indulge in delicious cuisine at the trendy on-site restaurant, then feast your eyes on a picture-perfect sunset.
Day 5. Puerto Humo
Today, explore Rancho Humo's unique natural environment of wetlands and mangroves. Embark on a boat tour along Temp River to glimpse the wide range of flora and fauna like herons, martinets, hawks, ducks, roseate spoonbills, wood storks and the jabiru, the largest waterfowl in Latin America.
You could also pay a visit to Palo Verde National Park.
Mangroves • Costa Rica
Day 6. Puerto Humo - Tamarindo Beach, Guanacaste
In the morning continue your trip to the beautiful coast of Guanacaste in the North Pacific of Costa Rica, known for its jungle-covered beaches and warm waters. As you drive on the Panamerican highway, take notice of the picturesque rural villages and the change from rainforest to tropical dry forest that characterizes the province of Guanacaste.
Est. driving time: 1 3/4 hours
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
Day 7. Tamarindo Beach, Guanacaste
Enjoy your first full day in Guanacaste! There is much to do and see in Northwestern Costa Rica, from gorgeous beaches to mesmerizing national parks. One of the most well-known national parks is Rincon de la Vieja, an intriguing combination of volcanic geological wonders and pristine tropical forests. The main attraction is the steamy volcano Rincon de la Vieja (translating to "old lady’s nook"). Â
You could also visit Liberia, the rural capital of Guanacaste, that's adorned with charming colonial buildings.
Rincon de la Vieja National Park • Costa Rica
Day 8. Tamarindo Beach, Guanacaste
Continue to explore the Guanacaste region today. A highlight would be visiting Llanos de Cortes, the most stunning waterfall in Costa Rica. Walk down a short, steep trail to reach this spectacular waterfall then swim in the tranquil pond below the gushing falls.Â
Guanacaste's beaches are also a good bet for rest and relaxation. Head to the peaceful sheltered bay at Playa Hermosa, sprinkled with coconut palms and olive trees.Â
Llanos de Cortes • Costa Rica
Day 9. Depart Costa Rica
After enjoying an unforgettable stay in Costa Rica, it's time to say goodbye. Drive to Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia and return your car, then board your flight back home.Â
Est. driving time: 1 1/2 hours
Fly home!
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Naranjo, Costa Rica
Chayote Lodge
The perfect gateway to discover Costa Rica's national parks, waterfalls, coffee fields and local artisans
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Fortuna, Costa Rica
Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Resort and spa with natural hot springs
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Nicoya, Costa Rica
Rancho Humo Estancia
A modern haven in the heart of the jungle
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Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Wyndham Tamarindo
Combines natural beauty, adventure and elegance
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