Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park
12 Days Starting and ending in San Jose, Costa Rica
Visiting: San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Tortuguero, San Carlos, Arenal, Playa Herradura, Manuel Antonio National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
15927
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 44
Age range:
8-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica's natural wonders with this immersive tour. Begin in San Jose, where the spirit of "pura vida" sets the tone for your adventure. Explore the lush landscapes of Tortuguero National Park, home to diverse wildlife and the world's first sea turtle research station. Experience the magic of the rainforest with a stay at a jungle lodge, and savor the rich flavors of cacao at a sustainable plantation. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano, with options to zip line through the canopy or hike across lava fields. Conclude your journey with a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, where verdant rainforests meet pristine beaches. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, showcasing the best of Costa Rica's vibrant ecosystem and local traditions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : San Jose, Costa Rica - Tour Begins
Location: San Jose
Accommodation Name: Doubletree by Hilton Cariari Hotel
Pura vida. In English, it translates to “the simple life.” But pura vida is so much more: it’s an attitude; a celebration of life in the moment. It’s time to experience what pura vida means to you. You’re on your way to explore a place that’s unlike anywhere else in the world, where pura vida is an unofficial motto and a way of life. Welcome to the emerald of Central America: Costa Rica.
Day 2 : San Jose - Tortuguero National Park
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Lodge
Seemingly endless mountain horizons. Complex evergreen forests. These are the wonders of Tortuguero National Park. Travel by boat* to your hotel before heading further down the rivers and canals to the world’s first sea turtle research station. Later, have time to explore Tortuguero town with your Tour Manager. Get away from it all and relax at your lodge set in the middle of the jungle, your home for the next two nights. From the morning calls of the monkeys to the gentle chatter of the birds, listen to the active sounds of the rainforest around you.
Day 3 : Tortuguero National Park
Location: Tortuguero
Begin the day on an excursion to search for the elusive green macaw and other unique winged creatures that flock to Tortuguero. Embark on a nature cruise, getting a glimpse into the habitat of jaguars, manatees, ocelots, and more. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy your Tortuguero resort. Tonight, a local will teach you about his village and share stories about life in Tortuguero’s remote town. Watch as he demonstrates how to harvest and prepare coconuts before sampling a local favorite: coconut candy.
Day 4 : Tortuguero National Park - Sarapiquí - San Carlos
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: Tilajari Hotel Resort
Take a boat back to the mainland and make your way towards Sarapiquí and Tirimbina Rainforest Center. Today will be an Impact Moment as you visit a cacao plantation at the Tirimbina Rainforest Center — an ecotourism destination that is vigilant of environmental, social, and economic impact. Learn the process of sustainably converting seed from bean to bar and taste for yourself why it’s called “the food of the gods.” Later, arrive at your secluded nature resort, nestled on the edge of the San Carlos River. Stroll the botanical garden lined with fruit trees, including lemon, soursop, guava, mango and tangerine.
Day 5 : San Carlos
Location: San Carlos
Explore the beauty of your surroundings on a Peñas Blancas River Safari. Paddle and float down the river on a peaceful adventure, taking in the sights and sounds of the rainforest as your naturalist guide describes the intricacies of the wildlife around you. Visit the finca of a local family and try homemade snacks such as banana bread, local coffee, and more. End your day with a guided walk through a private, primary forest reserve for a look at the various flora and fauna.
Day 6 : San Carlos - Arenal
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Hotel Lomas del Volcán
Today, suspended over the rainforest floor, relish a bird's-eye view of the jungle on a guided tour of Arenal’s famous hanging bridges. High above the jungle canopies, marvel at natural world around you. Later, settle into your resort where you’ll be surrounded by striking views of Arenal’s famous volcano for the next three nights.
Day 7 : Arenal
Location: Arenal
Today, it’s your choice! Since Costa Rica is the birthplace of zip lining, glide over the canopies on a mind-blowing rip through the jungle -OR- make your way across lava fields for an up-close-and-personal look at the volcano on a moderate hike along the trails formed by lava during the 1968 eruption. The afternoon is yours to spend as you please. Perhaps you’ll discover the town of La Fortuna or relax by the hotel’s pool. Also consider an optional excursion to a family-owned finca with an included farm to table lunch.
Day 8 : Arenal
Location: Arenal
In the shadow of Arenal Volcano, the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps, if you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll opt for an exhilarating white water rafting experience.** Or simply hang back at the resort, explore the grounds, and soak in the views.
Day 9 : Arenal - Playa Herradura
Location: Playa Herradura
Accommodation Name: Marriott Los Suenos
This morning, wake up and smell the coffee at a local farm that produces some of Costa Rica’s well-known beans. Take a tour with local plantation workers and have a chance to discuss what life is like for these coffee farmers. In the afternoon, head to Playa Herradura and settle into your resort for the next two nights. As the day draws to a close, watch the sun set over the Pacific alongside birds in every color of the rainbow.
Day 10 : Playa Herradura - Manuel Antonio National Park - Playa Herradura
Location: Manuel Antonio National Park
Welcome to Manuel Antonio National Park, home to verdant rainforests and white sand beaches. In this natural wonderland, traverse the trails where the wild things are, or go for a swim in the turquoise waters as wildlife rummages in the canopies. This evening is at leisure.
Day 11 : Playa Herradura - Tárcoles - San Jose
Location: San Jose
Accommodation Name: Doubletree by Hilton Cariari Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
See wild crocodiles among the mangroves of Tárcoles’ Rio Grande. On this exhilarating jungle crocodile safari, you’ll boat beneath the towering jungle, looking along the river banks for a glimpse of these incredible creatures. Then say goodbye to the coast and hello to San Jose. Toast to the pura vida of Costa Rica tonight over a farewell dinner.
Day 12 : San Jose - Tour Ends
Location: San Jose
Bid Costa Rica farewell as your tour comes to an end today.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at various hotels and lodges including Doubletree by Hilton Cariari Hotel, Evergreen Lodge, Tilajari Hotel Resort, Hotel Lomas del Volcán, and Marriott Los Suenos.
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Guided Tours
Enjoy guided tours such as a nature cruise in Tortuguero National Park, a guided walk through a private forest reserve, and a tour of Arenal's hanging bridges.
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Culinary Experiences
Participate in culinary experiences like tasting cacao, learning to cook with coconut, and enjoying a farm-to-table lunch.
What's Not Included
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as white water rafting and a visit to a Costa Rican farm are not included in the base package.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for the Tour Manager, driver(s), and local guides are not included unless departing from Australia & New Zealand.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
Experiences
- Learn about Costa Rica’s ecosystem and local culture.
- Visit the world’s first sea turtle research station.
- Stay in Tortuguero National Park and find yourself surrounded by wildlife.
Options
The minimum age to participate is 8 years old.
It is recommended to bring a bathing suit, t-shirt, sunscreen, change of clothing, secure shoes such as water shoes or sports sandals, and a $1 to $2 per person cash tip for your rafting guides, at your discretion. Changing rooms are available at the river.
Arenal: Costa Rican Farm Envelop yourself in Costa Rican culture at Finca Don Juan. Explore this family-owned farm, getting a peek into the daily lives in this part of Costa Rica. During a tour of the gardens, learn how the plants are organically grown through the concept of sustainability. The farm considers itself a “classroom without borders.” Taste the exotic fruit harvest and experience the traditional way to process sugar cane. Enjoy a sip of cane liquor before engaging in a culinary demonstration and a farm-to-table lunch. Duration approximately 3.5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 8 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Culinaries
- Taste for yourself why cacao is called “the food of the gods” and observe the process of converting this seed from bean to bar.
- Learn how to cook using a coconut before tasting some delicious local candy.
Must See
- Explore Arenal during a captivating 3-night stay.
- Hop aboard a river boat for a jungle crocodile safari and bird watching excursion.
Choice Highlights
Cooking Demonstration
Sarapiquí This is located in the province of Heredia in north central Costa Rica, lying between the coastal wetlands region and the central highlands, and is Costa Rica’s largest area of tropical rainforest. The main products that come from Sarapiquí are coffee, bananas and cacao beans. It is always rainy season here which helps feed the rivers and streams that are popular with white-water rafters and kayakers. The Estacion Biologica La Selva, a research preserve, is located here.
Tirimbina Rainforest Center Tirimbina Rainforest Center is a non-profit organization working to conserve the biodiversity of the rainforest through research, education, and eco-tourism.
Chocolate-Making Demostration & Tasting On your journey to the Sarapiquí region, an experience for the senses awaits you during a stop at a cacao plantation. A delicious endeavor into the origins of modern-day chocolate-making, you’ll learn the history of cocoa agriculture, and a fascinating demonstration illustrates the high art of converting this magical seed, bean to bar. Afterward, taste for yourself why cacao is coined “food of the Gods.”
River Safari Explore your surroundings on a Penas Blancas River Safair. As you paddle down the river, take in the sights and sounds of the rainforest as your naturalist guide explains the rich wildlife all around you.
Forest Reserve Guided Walk
Hanging Bridges These are walkways suspended near the tops of the trees in the cloud forest, so people can walk at treetop level, in the clouds. They are anchored, but not fixed, so there is some movement, but they have handrails and are quite safe. The longest one in Monteverde is 984 feet. About 90% of the organisms in the forest live near treetop level, so the bridges give access to much more than is visible from the ground. The bridges are linked by well-marked trails, and most of the way it is relatively flat.
Arenal Volcano What an impressive sight – the imposing Arenal Volcano – 7,000 years in the making and reaching over 5,000 feet! This live volcano is currently dormant but was active as recent as 2010. Its most active period began in 1968 and it stayed active until July 2010. Smoke plumes and lava flows were common occurrences for decades. Now, although quiet, it is still just as breathtaking. Rising high over the shores of the peaceful Lake Arenal and surrounded by lush forests, it is simply majestic. The volcano’s underground geothermal activity creates nature’s gift - hot springs. Spend time soaking in the soothing waters while gazing at this extraordinary sight.
Choice of Zip Lining or Volcano Lava Field Hike Costa Rica is the birthplace of zip lining. In the shadow of the Arenal Volcano, discover a new perspective of the rainforest as you glide over the canopies on an exhilarating ride through the jungle. If you’d prefer a perspective that’s a little closer to the ground but just as epic, head out with your guide on a moderate hike across the lava fields for an up-close-and-personal look at the Arenal Volcano.
Manuel Antonio National Park This is a small (about 4,500 acres) national park on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, known for its beaches and hiking trails through the tropical forests. It was created in 1972 and is the smallest national park in the country. Forbes Magazine listed it as one of the world’s 12 most beautiful parks. There are beaches suitable for swimming and also tidal pools for snorkeling. Animals found there include three- and two-toed sloths, monkeys, iguanas, coatis and 184 species of birds.
Jungle Crocodile Safari & Bird Watching The Tarcoles River flows from the central highlands to the Pacific Ocean, and the upper reaches are home to mangrove forests and a large biological preserve. The group will take a cruise through this ecosystem and be able to view American crocodiles as long as 13 feet, iguanas and many different kinds of birds, which can include macaws, parakeets, parrots, herons, egret and many others. The boats have covered seating areas.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Costa Rica's diverse landscapes by boat and road, including a river boat journey to Tortuguero National Park and a scenic drive to various destinations, ensuring a seamless and picturesque travel experience.Accommodation
Experience comfort and nature at its best with stays at the Doubletree by Hilton Cariari Hotel, Evergreen Lodge, Tilajari Hotel Resort, Hotel Lomas del Volcán, and Marriott Los Suenos, offering a blend of modern amenities and stunning natural surroundings.Check out our Q&As
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What unique wildlife can I expect to see in Tortuguero National Park?
In Tortuguero National Park, you can expect to see a variety of unique wildlife including green macaws, jaguars, manatees, ocelots, and several species of monkeys and birds.
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What activities are available at Arenal Volcano?
At Arenal Volcano, you have the option to zip line over the jungle canopies or take a moderate hike across the lava fields for an up-close look at the volcano. You can also enjoy a guided tour of the hanging bridges for a bird's-eye view of the rainforest.
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What can I learn about Costa Rican culture during the tour?
During the tour, you will learn about Costa Rican culture through various activities such as a cooking demonstration using coconuts, visiting a local coffee farm to discuss life with plantation workers, and exploring a family-owned farm to learn about sustainable farming practices.
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What is the significance of the cacao plantation visit in Sarapiquí?
The visit to the cacao plantation in Sarapiquí is significant as it provides an opportunity to learn about the sustainable process of converting cacao seeds from bean to bar, and to taste why cacao is called 'the food of the gods.'
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What is the experience like on the Peñas Blancas River Safari?
On the Peñas Blancas River Safari, you will paddle and float down the river, taking in the sights and sounds of the rainforest. A naturalist guide will describe the intricacies of the wildlife around you, providing a peaceful and educational adventure.
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What can I expect during the Jungle Crocodile Safari?
During the Jungle Crocodile Safari on the Tárcoles River, you will boat through mangrove forests and a biological preserve, looking for American crocodiles, iguanas, and a variety of birds such as macaws, parakeets, and herons.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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