Costa Rica Highlights, 10 days

Costa Rica Highlights, 10 days

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10 Days From

$3359

$3199

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Tour Overview

Embark on a 10-day adventure through the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica, exploring its vibrant cities, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. Begin your journey in San Jose, the lively capital, where you can explore cultural landmarks and charming neighborhoods. Venture to Tortuguero National Park, home to green sea turtles and diverse wildlife, before heading to Arenal to witness its iconic volcano and rich biodiversity. Discover the unique cloud forests of Monteverde, a haven for endangered species and fascinating flora. Finally, unwind in Tamarindo, a bustling beach resort perfect for surfing and enjoying the local cuisine. With guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and opportunities for leisure and exploration, this tour offers an unforgettable experience of Costa Rica's natural and cultural wonders. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • San Jose: Explore Costa Rica’s vibrant capital with its cultural and historical landmarks, including the European-inspired National Theatre.

  • Tortuguero: Discover the nesting grounds of green sea turtles and enjoy spectacular beaches and wildlife spotting.

  • Arenal: Visit one of Costa Rica's most beautiful volcanoes and explore its park filled with trails and wildlife.

  • Monteverde: Experience the unique cloud forest, home to many endangered species and fascinating plant life.

  • Tamarindo: Enjoy the lively beach resort known for its surfing, nightlife, and bustling restaurant scene.

  • Tortuguero National Park: Take a guided boat tour through the canals and rainforests, home to diverse wildlife.

  • Arenal Volcano National Park: Go on a guided hike to see the lush landscapes and spot local wildlife.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : ARRIVAL SAN JOSE

Location: San Jose

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Park Inn or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Upon arrival to bustling San Jose, our representative will meet and greet you and then direct you to your private transport, which will drop you off at your hotel in San Jose for your night in Costa Rica.


Overnight in San Jose.



Day 2 : SAN JOSE – TORTUGUERO (135km – 4 hrs by road / 2 hrs by boat)

Location: San Jose, Braulio Carrillo National Park, Guapiles, Tortuguero National Park, Tortuguero

Accommodation Name: Turtle Beach Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your day begins early with a pick up at the hotel approximately 6.30 am. Embark on the shared bus transfer and travel through the Braulio Carrillo National Park towards the Caribbean plains to enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery and quaint villages. Indulge in a tasty breakfast en route at around 8.30 am in a restaurant in Guapiles and continue through the jungle by boat, cruising the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. Arrive at your eco-lodge in time to enjoy a tasty lunch. After lunch, your guide will invite you to go for a hike around Tortuguero town. Visit the Turtles Museum ($1 donation) and come back for dinner at your hotel. 


Overnight in Tortuguero.


Day 3 : TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK

Location: Tortuguero National Park

Accommodation Name: Turtle Beach Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Make most of your stay in Tortuguero! After breakfast, at 9 am join a tour for 2 hours boat trip on the Tortuguero canals, an essential activity while in Costa Rica. Discover its network of canals, lagoons and dense rainforests through a boat tour guided by an expert naturalist guide. Abundant wildlife inhabits Tortuguero, including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. 

Rest of day at leisure or possibility to join some optional tours available in the destination. Dinner is served at the hotel.

Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 4 : TORTUGUERO – ARENAL (210km – 5 hrs by road / 2 hrs by boat)

Location: Tortuguero, Guapiles, Arenal

Accommodation Name: Arenal Springs Resort or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we depart Tortuguero at approximately 9 am, by shared boat and land transfers back to Guapiles, where we stop for lunch in a local restaurant at around 1 pm. After a tasty meal, you will be picked up by a shared transfer and taken to the Arenal area. Arrive at Arenal at 5 pm for check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.


Overnight in Arenal.


Day 5 : ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK

Location: Arenal Volcano National Park, Mistico Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, Ecotermales Hot Springs, Arenal

Accommodation Name: Arenal Springs Resort or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today after breakfast, meet your guide at approximately 8.00 am, to start a 4-hour guided walking tour in Arenal Volcano National Park. During the tour, the guide will explain the periods of activity the once very active volcano experienced. Enjoy the verdant landscapes and the backdrop of the now-dormant volcano, as you keep a lookout for the wild animals living in this national park. You will have the chance to spot sloths, howler monkeys, anteaters and many others. Afterwards, return to the hotel at 12.30 pm and spend the afternoon at leisure or participate in an optional activity: 

Naturalist Guided Walk at Hanging Bridges of Mistico Park: Enjoy a magical experience visiting the hanging bridges. This is a great combination of suspension bridges and platforms built in the forest that offers you an opportunity to explore the forest canopy in a safe and easy manner. An expert guide will take you through the natural history and open for you the doors of a fascinating and colourful tropical rainforest world. You will not forget the imposing vistas of the Arenal Volcano from the hanging bridges. Duration approx. 2.5 hours. 

La Fortuna Waterfall: This tour begins by descending the 500-meter trail to the magnificent Waterfall, renowned for its 60 meter (197 feet) high falls and its crystal-clear waters. Along the trail, you will observe plants, trees and animals which inhabit the area. You can choose to swim in its refreshing waters, take amazing photographs, or simply relax and take in all of the beauty of the La Fortuna Waterfall. When you visit the La Fortuna Waterfall you not only get to enjoy this marvellous natural wonder, you will be helping to Support the Development Association of the community as 100% of the entrance fee goes towards social projects to benefit schools, nutritional centres, the orphanage, roads and more. Duration approx. 3 hours. 

Ecotermales Hotsprings with Dinner: Live the experience of Ecotermales Hotsprings which has pools and a river of thermal waters coming from the veins of the majestic Arenal Volcano that predominate in the place. Explore the wonders of the tropical forest surrounding this beautiful resort and enjoy mineral waters with different temperatures, surrounded by warm waterfalls and tropical gardens. Ecotermales Hot Springs are recognized worldwide, and undoubtedly immersing yourself in them will make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated due to the mineral presence in volcanic waters. Duration approximately 4 hrs. Start time: 5 pm

Overnight in Arenal.

Day 6 : ARENAL – MONTEVERDE (60km – 2.5 hrs by road / 45 min by boat)

Location: Arenal Lake, Monteverde, Santa Elena

Accommodation Name: Poco a Poco or similar 3*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin the day with an early breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out and then meet your guide at approximately 7.30 am to head towards Monteverde. Transfer down to Arenal Lake where you will board a boat that will take you across towards Monteverde, where you will arrive at approximately 11.30 am. Once on the other side, a vehicle awaits to take you up to Monteverde. Admire the transition of the rainforest to the cloud forest where you will reach an altitude of 1,200 metres above sea level. Located in the Puntarenas province, Monteverde is a place of cloud forests and mist, coffee plantations, monkeys and friendly locals. The town of Santa Elena is small and quaint, filled with inviting restaurants and folksy artisan shops, while the nearby rainforest hosts a remarkable amount of biodiversity. Enjoy the rest of day at leisure.


Overnight in Monteverde.


Day 7 : MONTEVERDE

Location: Monteverde

Accommodation Name: Poco a Poco or similar 3*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a nourishing breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide between 7 and 7.30 to start the hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Founded in 1972, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is world-famous for its outstanding biodiversity, conservation actions and contributions, as well as scientific research. The reserve is home to 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, and it is one of the most important private reserves, not just in Costa Rica but the world. It hosts hundreds of species of mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, insects and arachnids, as well as a large variety of flora, such as mosses, vines or the autochthonous trees of the cloud forest. The hike lasts for 4 hours and you will be back at the hotel at approximately 12.00 pm. Rest of day at leisure.


Overnight in Monteverde.


Day 8 : MONTEVERDE – TAMARINDO (190km – 4 hrs)

Location: Monteverde, Tamarindo

Accommodation Name: Tamarindo Diria or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast, pick up at approximately 8.30 to head towards the stunning beachside destination in the mesmerising area of Guanacaste. After a 4-hour transfer arrive in Guanacaste area and spend the rest of the day to explore the surrounding, to stroll the beautifully arranged streets of Tamarindo, a lovely beach town in Guanacaste or to relax while enjoying hotel facilities. 


Overnight in Tamarindo.


Day 9 : TAMARINDO

Location: Tamarindo

Accommodation Name: Tamarindo Diria or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tamarindo is a lively destination where you can have some fun, enjoy the warm sun and relax on the spectacular beach. If you are feeling adventurous, jump on a board and try your hand at surfing Tamarindo's famous waves. Have the day at leisure to explore the area or relax at the hotel facilities.


Overnight in Tamarindo.


Day 10 : TAMARINDO – SAN JOSÉ (250km – 4.5hrs)

Location: Tamarindo, San José

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin your last day in spectacular Costa Rica with a delectable breakfast. Then, at the appropriate time, you will be picked up by shared transfer and taken to Juan Santamaria International Airport to catch your flight back home or on to your next destination. 


What's Included

  • Tour Guide

    Operated with English or Spanish-speaking licensed local guide on a shared basis for activities.

  • Transport

    Air-conditioned transportation as indicated in the itinerary on a shared basis, including shared transfer between the Airport and the Hotel and shared boat from Guapiles to Tortuguero and back.

  • Entrance Fees and Activities

    All monuments and visits as indicated: Guided visit to Tortuguero village, guided boat tour through Tortuguero National Park canals, entrance fee to Tortuguero National Park, guided hike in Arenal Volcano National Park, and guided hike in Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.

  • Other

    Meet and greet on day 1 and hotel taxes.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme.

  • Airport Taxes

    Airport taxes are not included.

  • Airport Porterage

    Airport porterage is not included.

  • Flights and Visa Fees

    International and domestic flight tickets or visa fees and local taxes are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for drivers and guides are not included.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours and activities are not included.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.  

Please Note

  • Please be advised that the airport departure transfer is a shared service with an estimated arrival at the airport between 12:30 and 13:30. If you need to arrive at the airport earlier, an upgrade to a private transfer is necessary (available at an additional cost)
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of package is not allowed
  • Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to tour contents without prior notice
  • Hotel early check in, late check out, connecting or adjoining rooms are subject to availability and are not guaranteed
  • Recommended departure time from 15:00 hrs. 

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1 San Jose:

  • Category Standard = Park Inn or similar 4*

Day 2-3 Tortuguero:

  • Category Standard = Pachira Lodge or similar Lodge Standard

Day 4-5 Arenal:

  • Category Standard = Arenal Springs Resort or similar 4* 

Day 6 - 7 Monteverde:

  • Category Standard = Poco a Poco or similar 3* 

Day 8-9 Tamarindo:

  • Category Standard = Tamarindo Diriá or similar 4* 

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1 San Jose:

  • Category Standard = Park Inn or similar 4*

Day 2-3 Tortuguero:

  • Standard Category = Turtle Beach Lodge or similar (Lodge Standard)

Day 4-5 Arenal:

  • Category Standard = Arenal Springs Resort or similar 4* 

Day 6 - 7 Monteverde:

  • Category Standard = Poco a Poco or similar 3* 

Day 8-9 Tamarindo:

  • Category Standard = Tamarindo Diriá or similar 4* 

Mode of Transport

Travel in air-conditioned comfort with shared transportation, including transfers between the airport and hotels, a shared boat journey to Tortuguero, and scenic drives through Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.

Accommodation

Enjoy 9 nights of comfortable accommodation in Costa Rica, staying at a mix of 3 and 4-star hotels and lodges, including Park Inn in San Jose, Turtle Beach Lodge in Tortuguero, Arenal Springs Resort, Poco a Poco in Monteverde, and Tamarindo Diria.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Tortuguero National Park?

    In Tortuguero National Park, you can expect to see a diverse range of wildlife including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. The park is known for its abundant wildlife and offers opportunities to spot various animals during the guided boat tour through its canals. ...more ...less

  • What activities are included in the Arenal Volcano National Park visit?

    During the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, you will participate in a 4-hour guided walking tour where the guide will explain the volcano's periods of activity. You will also have the chance to spot wildlife such as sloths, howler monkeys, and anteaters while enjoying the verdant landscapes and the backdrop of the now-dormant volcano. ...more ...less

  • What is the experience like in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve?

    The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers a 4-hour guided hike where you can explore one of the most important private reserves in the world. The reserve is home to 2.5% of the world's biodiversity, hosting hundreds of species of mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and arachnids, as well as a large variety of flora. ...more ...less

  • What can I do in Tamarindo during the tour?

    In Tamarindo, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere, relax on the spectacular beach, or try surfing on Tamarindo's famous waves. The area offers a chance to explore the surroundings, stroll through the beautifully arranged streets, or simply relax and enjoy the hotel facilities. ...more ...less

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities available during the tour. For example, in Arenal, you can participate in a naturalist guided walk at the Hanging Bridges of Mistico Park, visit La Fortuna Waterfall, or enjoy the Ecotermales Hotsprings with dinner. These activities offer additional experiences to explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica. ...more ...less

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

Reviews of this operator

Brian  

Exotic Costa Rica

12-Feb-2022

We were delayed a couple of times in getting to Costa Rica and our tour operator, Roy, was extremely accommodating of the changes. The trip was partially guided, so though lodging and transportation were covered there were a few days where I could have used help coordinating afternoon activities. ...more ...less

Peter Herbert  

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste

11-May-2022

A little aprehensive on 1st day with no tour leader... but ran better that clockwork, a few natural obstacles overcome. Good hotels, transport , drivers AND OUTSTANDING GUIDES.....A THEN THERE WAS THE WILDS OF COSTA RICA AND ITS PEOPLES ....

Jean Walsh  

Exotic Costa Rica

17-Mar-2022

This trip was much anticipated and lived up to all of our expectations. We had a wonderful experience. If we had questions, Andres was immediately responsive. It was such a nice feeling to know we could reach him.

Susan Langton  

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park

06-Jan-2022

Our trip was well organized, all of the service providers ( transfers, guides, accommodations) we friendly and professional, and each location was as promised. A bit more local information would have been useful in preparing for the trip, but nothing that wasn't able to be accommodated on the fly. ...more ...less

Marianne Brownell  

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park

03-Oct-2022

Terrific experience!

Debra R  

PURAVIDA CR

26-Jun-2023

Great staff taking care of us along the way! Hotel choices were unique and beautiful and accommodating.

Keith  

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste

08-Mar-2022

A good tour with 4 completely different ecosystems. A couple of long travel days.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Sunday

May 09, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 10, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 11, 2025 - May 20, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

May 12, 2025 - May 21, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

May 13, 2025 - May 22, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 14, 2025 - May 23, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

May 15, 2025 - May 24, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

May 16, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 17, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 18, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

May 19, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

May 20, 2025 - May 29, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 21, 2025 - May 30, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

May 22, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

May 26, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

May 27, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Wednesday - Friday

May 28, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

May 29, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

May 30, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 09, 2025
$3359 $3199 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$160 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

Costa Rica Highlights, 10 days

10 Days Starting and ending in San Jose, Costa Rica

Visiting: San Jose, Braulio Carrillo National Park, Guapiles, Tortuguero National Park, Tortuguero, Arenal, Arenal Volcano National Park, Mistico Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, Ecotermales Hot Springs, Arenal Lake, Monteverde, Santa Elena, Tamarindo, San José ...more ...less

Tour code:

307308

Guide Type:

Partially Guided

Group size:

10 - 15

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

10-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

Activities:

Sightseeing, Surfing, Walking

From: $3359 $3199 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$160

NB: Prices correct on 10-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

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