DAY 1: ARRIVE IN SAN JOSE

You will be met on your arrival at San Jose Airport and transferred to our hotel. Later in the evening, we meet our guide for dinner and orientation meeting. 
Overnight in San Jose.

 

DAY 2: LA PAZ WATERFALL GARDENS, COFFEE TOUR

Today we visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park, featuring 5 famous waterfalls and the largest animal sanctuary in Costa Rica. Wander through the park’s well-maintained trails, taking in panoramic views of the falls and surrounding tropical landscape.

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Along the way, we visit Doka Estate, the oldest humid coffee processing plant that works with hydraulic power. Doka Estate has been declared an Architectural Heritage for Humanity. We learn about the vital role coffee has played in forging democracy in Costa Rica, as well as cultivating a national identity. The introduction of coffee provided a product suitable for export along with bananas and pineapples. Today, they remain the most important crops in Costa Rica. The coffee tour is packed with great tips to help make your next cup of coffee your best. You will also learn how to properly store coffee to keep it fresh and tasty.

Dinner and overnight in San Jose.

 

DAY 3: SANTA MARIA DE DOTA

Today we journey to the scenic Santa María de Dota region, nestled in Costa Rica’s lush Central Valley and known for its highland beauty and coffee culture. Along the way, we stop in the historic city of Cartago to visit the impressive Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, a major pilgrimage site, and explore the atmospheric ruins of the old parish church. After soaking in the local history, we enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch before continuing to Santa María de Dota. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and settle in for a relaxing evening in the cool mountain air.

Dinner and overnight in Santa Maria de Dota region.

 

DAY 4: SANTA MARIA DE DOTA

We begin our day with an unforgettable Quetzal observation tour, where we'll have the chance to spot the stunning Resplendent Quetzal, the sacred bird of the ancient Maya. This visit will take us through lush cloud forests, offering a rare glimpse of this magnificent creature in its natural habitat.

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After lunch, we’ll visit Finca la Lucha sin Fin, a historica site in the pivotal 1948 revolution. It was planned and led by Pepe Figueres, the commander of the National Liberation Army. This revolution, which ultimately led to the abolition of Costa Rica’s military, reshaped the nation’s future.

Dinner and overnight in Santa Maria de Dota region.

 

DAY 5: TO CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK

Today we embark on a scenic drive to the picturesque Sierpe River embarkation point on our way to Corcovado National Park. We will navigate the river, which is full of mangrove trees, until we arrive at the river’s mouth by the Pacific Ocean before continuing on to Corcovado Wilderness Resort. We may have the chance to spot dolphins or on occasion, depending on the season, humpedback whales.
Dinner and overnight in Corcovado National Park region.

 

DAY 6: CORCOVADO - SAN PEDRILLO RANGER STATION

Set sail by boat to the stunning San Pedrillo Ranger Station in Corcovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Upon arrival, embark on a guided nature hike through the park’s lush rainforest, where you'll spend about two hours exploring its incredible wildlife and vibrant ecosystems. As you wander along scenic trails, keep your eyes peeled for tropical birds, monkeys, and sloths. After the hike, enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the beauty of nature, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and the Pacific breeze.
Dinner and overnight in Corcovado National Park region.

 

DAY 7: CORCOVADO - CAÑO ISLAND AND SNORKELING

Today we embark on a full-day excursion to Caño Island, just 45 minutes off the coast. This paradise destination is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. We spend the day snorkeling in the warm, turquoise waters, where you'll have the chance to swim among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. We may see turtles, rays, or perhaps a dolphin or two. We time to unwind on the pristine beach, soaking in the sun and tranquil surroundings. A delicious picnic will be provided. 
Dinner and overnight in Corcovado National Park region.

 

DAY 8: CORCOVADO TO ARENAL VOLCANO

After a short flight from Corcovado back to San José, we’ll begin our drive to the majestic Arenal Volcano. As we make our way through the heart of Costa Rica, you'll be treated to a beautiful landscape, passing by vast cattle farms and lush plantations of yuca, plantains, and papayas. This journey offers a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural richness of the region, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Arenal Volcano, one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks. 
Dinner and overnight in Arenal.

 

DAY 9: ARENAL HANGING BRIDGES AND HOT SPRINGS

Today we visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges with our guide. This project sits within a 250-hectare (618 acre) reserve of fully recovered secondary rainforest. A visit to Arenal Hanging Bridges consists of traversing 16 bridges (8 hanging) from 5 to 100 meters long that cross the rainforest and a 3 km circuit of interpretive trails.

This afternoon we'll head to the hot springs where you can unwind and soak in the warm, soothing waters. These natural hot springs are heated by the region’s geothermal activity. We will enjoy a delicious lunch afterwards.
Dinner and overnight in Arenal.

 

DAY 10: TO SARAPUIQUI, ZIP LINE AND CHOCOLATE TOUR

Today we travel to the Sarapiqui region where we can enjoy a thrilling zip line tour. This optional activity offers a thrilling bird’s-eye view of Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity as you glide from platform to platform through the treetops. You will experience some of the most beautiful tropical forests in Costa Rica. Staying above the canopy forest, once arriving at each platform, the professional guides will explain about the beautiful landscapes and properties you are seeing and about the significance of these forests for everyone. 

Next, indulge your senses at a charming chocolate plantation, where you’ll uncover the secrets of one of the world’s most beloved foods. Learn about the entire process—from bean to bar—and enjoy a delicious tasting of fresh, artisanal chocolate.
Dinner and overnight in the Sarapiqui region.

 

DAY 11: SARAPIQUI RAFTING ADVENTURE AND PINEAPPLE TOUR

This morning, get ready for an adrenaline-pumping river rafting experience on the thrilling Class III rapids! As you navigate the river’s exciting twists and turns, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Arenal rainforest. The rush of the rapids is only part of the adventure—keep an eye out for the vibrant wildlife and tropical birds that call this lush region home. (Rafting is an optional activity, but it’s a great way to combine adventure with natural beauty in one unforgettable experience.)

Afterwards we visit a sustainable pineapple plantation near Sarapiquí. Learn how one of the country’s most iconic fruits is grown, harvested, and exported, all while exploring the rich agricultural traditions of the region. Enjoy a guided walk through the fields and a fresh taste of pineapple straight from the source!
Dinner and overnight in the Sarapiqui region.

 

DAY 12: TO TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK

This morning we depart La Fortuna and head towards Tortuguero National Park. 

Three species of monkeys (spider, howler and white- faced), three-toed sloths and river otters are frequently seen along the natural inland waterways and canals. Caiman, iguanas, river turtles, basilisk lizards and poison dart Dendrobates frogs inhabit the area. 320 species of birds including all 6 species of king fishers, 3 species of toucans, 8 species of parrots and other neo-tropical species such as the slaty-tailed trogon, white-collared manakin, purple-throated ruitcrow and white-fronted nunbird all inhabit the area. We will have the opportunity to observe them during our ride through the creeks of Tortuguero National Park over the next few days. 
Dinner and overnight in Tortuguero.

 

DAY 13: WILDLIFE OF TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK

Today we travel by boat to explore the canals of Tortuguero and Cano Harold (Harold’s Canal) in Tortuguero National Park. During our visit to Cano Harold, we
have the opportunity to see bare-throated tiger herons, snowy egrets, boat billed herons and other species which are known to nest here.

We also visit the Atlantic Green Sea Turtle Museum founded by the Caribbean Conservation Corporation. The late Dr. Archie Carr began to study and tag the thousands of Atlantic green sea turtles that every year from June through October come to Tortuguero Beach to lay their eggs. Originally intended to protect a major nesting beach of the Atlantic green sea turtle, Tortuguero National Park now protects 51,870 acres, one of the last large areas of tropical rainforest in Central America.
Dinner and overnight in Tortuguero.

 

DAY 14: TORTUGUERO TO SAN JOSE

Today, we bid farewell to the enchanting canals of Tortuguero as we begin our scenic journey back to San José. Enjoy a picturesque boat ride through the waterways, where you may still catch glimpses of wildlife along the way, including monkeys, birds, and more. From the boat dock, we'll continue by road, passing through the lush landscapes of Costa Rica’s Caribbean lowlands and winding through charming towns and tropical forests. This drive offers a beautiful contrast to the wildlife haven you've just experienced, as we make our way toward the vibrant capital city of San José. Upon arrival, you'll have the evening to relax and reflect on your incredible adventure through this diverse and captivating country.
Farewell dinner and overnight in San Jose.

 

DAY 15: DEPART SAN JOSE

Transfer to San Jose International airport for your homeward flight.