Tropical Costa Rica
9 Days Starting in San Jose, Costa Rica and ending in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Visiting: San Jose, Arenal, Monteverde, Guanacaste
Tour operator:
Tour code:
15255
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
8-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the lush landscapes of Costa Rica with the "Tropical Costa Rica" tour. Begin your adventure in the vibrant capital of San Jose before delving into the heart of the country's natural wonders. Experience the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano and explore the rich biodiversity of the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge on a riverboat cruise. Discover the secrets of Costa Rican coffee at a local plantation and immerse yourself in sustainable farming practices at Don Juan Finca Educativa. Traverse the Monteverde Cloud Forest from the treetop canopy, and unwind on the pristine beaches of Guanacaste. With opportunities for thrilling zip line adventures or serene hanging bridge walks, this tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, ensuring a memorable Costa Rican escape.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : San Jose, Costa Rica - Tour Begins
Location: San Jose
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari
Your trip to Costa Rica opens in the colorful capital city of San Jose, the perfect place to relax and soak up the sights as your adventure begins. As guests' arrival times will vary, we have not included any sightseeing or meals today.
Day 2 : San Jose - Coffee Plantation - Arenal
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Mountain Paradise Resort & Spa
Welcome to the Central Valley. Begin with a tour of a local coffee plantation highlighting the history and cultivation of this driver of the Costa Rican economy. This afternoon, check in for a leisurely 3-night stay at a lodge overlooking the majestic Arenal Volcano. Get to know the Costa Rican culture this evening.
Day 3 : Arenal - Cano Negro - Arenal
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Mountain Paradise Resort & Spa
Embark on a Cano Negro guided riverboat trip in a covered canoe known as a panga. These 20,000 acres are home to the largest viewable collection of indigenous wildlife in all of Costa Rica. Go in search of caimans, river otters, sloths, monkeys, river turtles, exotic birds and rare butterflies. Later, return to Arenal for the chance to relax at your resort.
Day 4 : Arenal
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Mountain Paradise Resort & Spa
Meals Included: Lunch
Today, explore a family-owned farm, getting a peek into the daily lives of the locals. 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.
Day 5 : Arenal - Lake Arenal Cruise - Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: El Establo Hotel
Enjoy a delightful cruise on Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest and most important lake. Then, it’s off to the secluded Monteverde Cloud Forest, a place you have to see to believe, where trees grow to heights of 100 feet! Set off on a nature walk through this spectacular ecosystem, where you’re sure to encounter many incredible species of flora and fauna.
Day 6 : Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: El Establo Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
It’s your choice! This morning, join an expert for a leisurely paced “Hanging Bridges” walking tour to gain a different perspective of the cloud forest’s lush ecosystem -OR- take an exhilarating ride on one of the longest canopy zip line tours in Costa Rica. No matter what you choose, we all come together to explore one of the world's largest butterfly gardens before lunch. Your afternoon is at leisure, or, if you would like to do both the hanging bridges and the zip line tour, you may purchase the second as an option on tour.
Day 7 : Monteverde - Guanacaste
Location: Guanacaste
Accommodation Name: Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows, Playa Carrillo
Today we make our way to breathtaking Guanacaste, known for its fine sandy beaches. Settle in for a relaxing 2-night stay at your resort and take in the mesmerizing ocean views.
Day 8 : Guanacaste
Location: Guanacaste
Accommodation Name: Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows, Playa Carrillo
Meals Included: Dinner
Fun in the sun is in store today as you explore the nearby beaches, or simply relax by the pool and take advantage of your resort’s lovely amenities. This afternoon, visit the delightful beach town of Samara for some local culture. Return to your hotel in time to catch a Costa Rican sunset and soak in the spectacular colors as the sun illuminates the natural landscape before your final dinner.
Day 9 : Guanacaste - Tour Ends
Location: Guanacaste
Today you depart for home with fabulous memories of your Costa Rican adventure.
What's Included
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Arenal Volcano Scenery
Enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding Arenal Volcano.
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Cano Negro Riverboat Cruise
Spot indigenous wildlife while on a Cano Negro riverboat cruise.
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Monteverde Cloud Forest Exploration
Take your journey to new heights and explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest from the elevated treetop canopy.
What's Not Included
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Day 1 Sightseeing and Meals
As guests' arrival times will vary, we have not included any sightseeing or meals on the first day.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours such as the second Monteverde activity (either hanging bridges or zip line) are not included and must be purchased separately.
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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.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Costa Rica are not included.
Experiences
- Take your journey to new heights and explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest from the elevated treetop canopy.
- Put your feet up and relax during a 2-night stay in Guanacaste known for the country’s most beautiful beaches.
Options
The hanging bridges consist of 1.9 miles (approximately 3 kilometers) of trails that cross through the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Although the tour is leisurely paced, it can be a strenous hike for some due to the hills, stairs, uneven surfaces and sporadic handrails. Guests with fear of heights should not participate in this option. It is recommended you bring light clothing, long pants, totally closed shoes or hiking shoes, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent and a raincoat.
Monteverde Cloud Forest: Canopy Adventure Experience the unique sensation of flying through nature! For nature lovers, the greatest adventure of all is to take a Zip Line Canopy Adventure Tour. Selvatura Adventure Park and Canopy Tour is one of the best soft adventures in Costa Rica. Canopy Tour guides start by outfitting you with the appropriate equipment; then they take you through each of the 12 cables and 19 platforms and through the Tarzan Swing (optional). Selvatura Park is one of the longest Canopy Tours in Costa Rica, and is the only zip line canopy tour located inside the actual virgin cloud forest of Monteverde. Feel pure adrenaline and excitement of flying up to 35 miles per hour, viewing magnificent landscapes. Zip lines ranging from 120 to more than 2,000 feet in length and 60 to 400 feet in height let you experience the cloud forest from a whole new perspective. The tree top canopy tour not only offers a great adventure but also an opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Trained personnel (accredited by the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism) accompanies you throughout the tour. If you are looking for a fun adventure and amazing rides, this canopy tour is your best choice. Duration approximately 3 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 2 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Please note: This option must be booked at least 30 days prior to departure and is non-refundable within 15 days of departure. This adventure is NOT recommended for clients who have high blood pressure, back or heart problems or women who are pregnant.
General conditions: All guides and equipment used is certified by the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism (ICT). For security, children under 8 years old cannot take the tour. Clients over 100 kilograms weight (217 pounds) must be evaluated by the technical staff (according to his/her height and physical condition) upon arrival. Staff will determine if those guests can participate in this tour. We recommend wearing long pants, hiking shoes, camera, binoculars, insect repellent, and a raincoat.
Guanacaste: Dolphin Watching & Snorkel Experience Get a different perspective of the Costa Rican wildlife when you venture into the natural habitat of a dolphin family. With a guide, get a firsthand look at these elegant creatures and watch as they play along the water’s surface. Home to an abundance of animals, keep an eye out for other creatures as well. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some whales or turtles! Afterwards, try your hand at fishing as you cast your line into the blue waters of the Pacific. You’ll also get a chance to swim and snorkel in the warm waves along the coast, getting a closer look at the sea life. Duration approximately 4 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Activity is dependent on ocean and weather conditions. This tour often runs at the same time as the Mangrove Kayaking on the Ora River due to the tide schedule. Therefore, you can only book one of these options.
Suggestion: Bring sunblock, bathing suit, towel, and sunglasses.
Guanacaste: Mangrove Kayaking on the Ora River Branches reaching out into the swamp, creatures bustling through the undergrowth, and long-necked birds wading into the cloudy water. The mangroves of Costa Rica are not only essential to the larger ecosystem but also function as an ethereal waterway that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to another world. Mangrove trees live in swamps where saltwater meets fresh water, creating a flourishing home for a wide variety of animals. On your kayak, discover an intimate look at the local wildlife as you gently paddle down the Ora River. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys and explorative iguanas scurrying up the trees. Follow your guide as you coast along the water, making your way along the winding river and taking in the nature all around you. Duration approximately 3 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Availability is based on river or sea conditions and cannot be guaranteed. This tour often runs at the same time as the Dolphin & Snorkel Adventure due to the tide schedule. Therefore, you can only book one of these optional tours, not both.
Suggestion: Bring a camera, sunblock, bathing suit, and sandals. In the event the Ora River does not have suitable conditions, guests will enjoy sea kayaking. Departure time is dependent upon high tide.
Culinaries
- Discover the history of coffee in Costa Rica during your visit to a coffee plantation.
- Learn about local farming practices and learn to make tortillas while having lunch at Don Juan Finca Educativa.
Must See
- Enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding Arenal Volcano.
- Spot indigenous wildlife while on a Cano Negro riverboat cruise.
Choice Highlights
Coffee Plantation Coffee has always been one of Costa Rica’s top exports, grown in the central plateau since the mid 18th century with plants brought from Ethiopia. Costa Rican coffee is very high in caffeine and is considered among the best in the world. You will visit the coffee plants themselves and learn about the cultivation process and then how the beans are roasted and processed.
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.
Cano Negro Refuge This is a wetland refuge in north central Costa Rica created in 1984. The only access to the 25,000 acre area is by boat. The boats are small and most are covered. The refuge is home to several endangered species, including cougars, jaguars, ocelots, tapirs and several kinds of monkey. The Rio Frio runs through the refuge and allows good wildlife viewing. In the dry season (November to April) millions of migratory birds from North and South America spend the winter here.
Lake Arenal Cruise Lake Arenal is the largest lake in Costa Rica, and was created as part of a hydroelectric project in 1979. The present town of Arenal on the lake is new – the original town is at the bottom of the lake after the enlargement in 1979. The lake is about 30 km long and 5 km wide and is 100 to 200 feet deep. From the lake, there are spectacular views of the volcano and the surrounding forest.
Farm Tour and Lunch
Monteverde Cloud Forest This is a nature reserve located on the central volcanic mountains in northern Costa Rica and contains 26,000 acres of cloud forest, 90% of it virgin forest. Cloud forest is defined as having constant or frequent low-level cloud cover that creates unique humid conditions. A group of Quaker farmers from Alabama bought land here in 1951, moving to Costa Rica to avoid the Korean War draft, and they named it Green Mountain (Monteverde) because it was green all year round. Scientists began to notice how special it was in species diversity in the ‘60s and ‘70s, and the first bits were purchased as a reserve in 1973. There are over 160 kinds of amphibians living here including the golden toad, and many birds including the Resplendant Quetzal.
Choice on Tour You may chose between two options while in Monteverde: The hanging bridges walking tour consists of a series of walkways suspended near the tops of the trees in the cloud forest, giving you the ability to 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. You will also explore one of the world's largest butterfly gardens -OR- take the exhilirating zip line. Secured by a system of cables and platforms in the canopy of the rainforest, you will glide above the forest as you take in the breathtaking views.
Guanacaste This is a province in the northwest part of Costa Rica bordering the Pacific Ocean, and it gets its name from the national tree of Costa Rica, the Guanacaste tree (ear pod tree). Nicaragua, which borders Costa Rica, possessed the province in the 19th century and wants it back now. Guancaste has a very dry climate and is very hot during the North American winter season, so has become a very popular beach resort area. The rest of the local economy is based on cattle farming.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes a guided riverboat trip in a covered canoe at Cano Negro, a cruise on Lake Arenal, and transportation to various locations such as Monteverde and Guanacaste, with options for additional tours including zip line and dolphin watching.Accommodation
Stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari in San Jose, enjoy a 3-night stay at Mountain Paradise Resort & Spa overlooking Arenal Volcano, relax at El Establo Hotel in Monteverde, and unwind at Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows in Guanacaste.Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Cano Negro riverboat cruise?
During the Cano Negro riverboat cruise, you can expect to see a variety of indigenous wildlife including caimans, river otters, sloths, monkeys, river turtles, exotic birds, and rare butterflies.
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What activities are available in Monteverde Cloud Forest?
In Monteverde Cloud Forest, you have the option to join a 'Hanging Bridges' walking tour for a unique perspective of the ecosystem or take an exhilarating zip line tour. Both options allow you to explore the cloud forest and its wildlife.
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What can I learn at the coffee plantation visit?
At the coffee plantation, you will learn about the history and cultivation of coffee, which is a significant part of Costa Rica's economy. The tour will cover the process from growing the coffee plants to roasting and processing the beans.
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What is included in the farm tour in Arenal?
The farm tour in Arenal includes exploring a family-owned farm where you will learn about sustainable farming practices, taste exotic fruits, experience traditional sugar cane processing, and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch.
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What can I expect during the Lake Arenal cruise?
During the Lake Arenal cruise, you will enjoy views of Costa Rica's largest lake and the surrounding forest, with spectacular sights of the Arenal Volcano.
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What are the options for activities in Guanacaste?
In Guanacaste, you can relax on the beautiful beaches, enjoy resort amenities, or visit the beach town of Samara for local culture. Optional activities include dolphin watching and snorkeling or mangrove kayaking on the Ora River.
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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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