Essence of Costa Rica
Uncover the essence of Costa Rica's Central Valley
Discover the essence of Costa Rica on a journey that blends vibrant culture, scenic landscapes, and immersive nature experiences. Travel from the heart of the Central Valley into lush rainforest surroundings, where you’ll connect with local traditions and explore one of the country’s most iconic regions. With a mix of guided activities and free time, this vacation offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, culminating in a memorable escape in one of Central America's most biodiverse countries.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Arrival airport transfer from SJO to San Jose Hotel
- 1 night in San Jose at Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose to the Arenal area, including an immersive local coffee tour and traditional lunch
- 3 nights in the Arenal area at Hotel Faro Arenal, or similar
- Arenal 1968 Park Hike Tour
- Transfer from the Arenal area to San Jose, including a two-hour safari float on the Sarapiquí River and a traditional lunch
- 1 night in San Jose at Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Departure transfer from San Jose hotel to SJO
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
Fall in love with the luscious biodiversity of Costa Rica's rainforests.
Take an included safari float on the Sarapiquí River.
Walk on hanging bridges and hike around volcanic landscapes.
Spend nights near the Arenal Volcano park region.
Taste homemade coffee, from plant to cup.
Experience a well-rounded introduction to Costa Rica, beginning in the Central Valley, where you’ll live out the country’s culture and everyday easy living. The big highlight comes towards the center of your stay, where you’ll travel through scenic countryside to the beautiful landscapes of Arenal Volcano, with a stop along the way to learn about one of Costa Rica’s most important local traditions.
Once in Arenal, you'll take an informative 1968 Park Hike Tour as well as have plenty of time to explore on your own. Feel free to take your adventures far and wide, as you'll have unlimited access to hanging bridges, kayaking, animal spotting, hiking, and cliff diving. Whether you want to learn more about the rainforest habitats or truly test your adrenaline, there are options for everyone. On the way back to San Jose, you'll enjoy one last included activity — a two-hour safari float on the Sarapiquí River and a traditional lunch to seal off your guided tours of Central Costa Rica.
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)
- Arrival airport transfer from SJO to San Jose Hotel
- 1 night in San Jose at Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose to the Arenal area, including an immersive local coffee tour and traditional lunch
- 3 nights in the Arenal area at Hotel Faro Arenal, or similar
- Arenal 1968 Park Hike Tour
- Transfer from the Arenal area to San Jose, including a two-hour safari float on the Sarapiquí River and a traditional lunch
- 1 night in San Jose at Hotel Presidente, or similar
- Departure transfer from San Jose hotel to SJO
- Breakfast daily
Fall in love with the luscious biodiversity of Costa Rica's rainforests.
Take an included safari float on the Sarapiquí River.
Walk on hanging bridges and hike around volcanic landscapes.
Spend nights near the Arenal Volcano park region.
Taste homemade coffee, from plant to cup.
Experience a well-rounded introduction to Costa Rica, beginning in the Central Valley, where you’ll live out the country’s culture and everyday easy living. The big highlight comes towards the center of your stay, where you’ll travel through scenic countryside to the beautiful landscapes of Arenal Volcano, with a stop along the way to learn about one of Costa Rica’s most important local traditions.
Once in Arenal, you'll take an informative 1968 Park Hike Tour as well as have plenty of time to explore on your own. Feel free to take your adventures far and wide, as you'll have unlimited access to hanging bridges, kayaking, animal spotting, hiking, and cliff diving. Whether you want to learn more about the rainforest habitats or truly test your adrenaline, there are options for everyone. On the way back to San Jose, you'll enjoy one last included activity — a two-hour safari float on the Sarapiquí River and a traditional lunch to seal off your guided tours of Central Costa Rica.
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.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Upgraded hotels!
Day 1. Welcome to Costa Rica!
As the cultural, economic, and political core of the country, Costa Rica’s Central Valley is filled with fun things to do. You’ll be surrounded by evergreen mountains and a handful of explorable volcanic regions, so be sure to get a headstart on your stay by perhaps exploring around Arenal. Other options for your first big day are the nearby towns, nature reserves, and cafes. Costa Rica’s Central Valley serves as the country’s cultural, political, and economic core.
Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), you will be greeted just outside the arrivals area by an ST representative holding a sign with your name. They will provide a brief overview of your itinerary and share helpful tips about local customs, weather, and what to expect in the days ahead. Once you’re settled into your hotel, maybe consider visiting a museum in the evening?
Transfer from airport to hotel
Check-in - Hotel Presidente
Located in San Jose's vibrant city core, Hotel Presidente is a 4-star hotel with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet, and try their luck at the hotel's casino. Guests can savor small plates, sip beverages, and dine indoors or al fresco at the hotel's on-site rooftop restaurant and bar.
Guest rooms have a private bathroom with a shower and hair dryer. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, phone, desk, in-room safe, wake-up service, and room service.
Nearby attractions include the Jade Museum and the Costa Rica National Museum, both within a 7-minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, the Costa Rican Art Museum is within a 17-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 2. San Jose - Arenal Volcano
Today, travel from San José toward the Arenal Volcano region. On the way over, you'll have your Sarchí Coffee Tour.
Later, continue to La Fortuna, located at the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Known for its lush rainforest surroundings and wide range of outdoor activities, the area sets the stage for the more adventurous portions of your stay.
Stop in the town of Sarchí for an immersive coffee experience that highlights Costa Rica’s rich coffee heritage. With the help of a local guide, you’ll learn about coffee’s historic as well as cultural importance to Costa Rica, all while observing each stage of the production, including planting, harvesting, and roasting. The visit concludes with a traditional Costa Rican lunch prepared with fresh, regional ingredients.
Transfer from San Jose to Arenal Volcano area hotel (with tour)
Check-in - Hotel Faro Arenal
Located in the lush heart of La Fortuna, the Hotel Faro Arenal is a peaceful hotel designed to be in harmony with the surrounding rainforest. Found just a few minutes away from the town center, the La Fortuna waterfall, and the best hot springs in the area, this hotel is the perfect place to settle your Central Costa Rican explorations. Guests are immersed in a landscape rich with birds, sloths, and tropical vegetation, featuring expansive garden pathways specifically designed for peace and relaxation.
The hotel is intimate, featuring 15 charming cabañas that provide a serene stay within a secure and gorgeous environment. On-site amenities include two outdoor swimming pools, a dedicated children’s pool, and a scenic terrace for taking in the views. Visitors can enjoy a highly-rated daily breakfast and fresh local cuisine at the hotel restaurant. Accessing the Arenal National Park and volcano are easy, making tours and other activities all the more accessible.
Day 3. Arenal Volcano
Today, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel with a fueling lunch. You'll want to have energy for your guided hike on the Arenal 1968 Volcano View Lava Trail!
Once you return, watch the sunset dip over the rainforest from your hotel room.
Set out on a guided hike along the Arenal 1968 Volcano View Lava Trail. This walk offers striking views of the Arenal Volcano, along with its historic lava flows and the surrounding rainforest. As you explore, your guide will explain the region’s volcanic history and point out the diverse plant and animal life that thrives in this unique environment. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience one of Costa Rica’s most recognizable natural landmarks up close.
Day 4. Arenal Volcano
After all the guided exploring, it's time to take some time to roam around on your own. Spend a full day in Arenal with a variety of activities suited to different interests, from relaxing in hot springs and visiting nearby waterfalls, to even ziplining through rainforest canopies. Don’t forget to walk on the hanging bridges for an even more exciting view of the surrounding area.
Arenal Rainforest Waterfall
Day 5. Arenal Volcano - San Jose
Today, you’re back to your guided exploration! Leave in the early morning from Arenal for a scenic transfer back to San José, passing through lush rainforest and agricultural landscapes. On the way through, you'll have your last included activity of this journey: a two-hour safari float on the Sarapiquí River.
Spend the rest of the evening however you see fit – whether it's simply dining at a local cafe in San Jose, or taking another tour of your choosing on your last day in Costa Rica!
Transfer from Arenal Volcano area to San Jose hotel (with tour)
Check-in - Hotel Presidente
Located in San Jose's vibrant city core, Hotel Presidente is a 4-star hotel with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet, and try their luck at the hotel's casino. Guests can savor small plates, sip beverages, and dine indoors or al fresco at the hotel's on-site rooftop restaurant and bar.
Guest rooms have a private bathroom with a shower and hair dryer. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, phone, desk, in-room safe, wake-up service, and room service.
Nearby attractions include the Jade Museum and the Costa Rica National Museum, both within a 7-minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, the Costa Rican Art Museum is within a 17-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 6. Depart Costa RIca
Your time in Costa Rica has sadly come to an end. Gather all your luggage and memories of this iconic essential trip, and take your transfer to the airport to board your flight home.
Transfer from hotel 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.
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