
Costa Rica Volcano Caribbean Journey
This 9-day tour starts and ends in San José, offering a fantastic blend of nature, wildlife, and culture. You’ll explore the stunning Arenal Volcano region with its lush national park and optional hot springs, then cruise through the waterways of Tortuguero National Park to spot exotic wildlife. The adventure continues along the Caribbean coast in Puerto Viejo, where you can snorkel vibrant coral reefs and hike through Cahuita National Park’s tropical forests. With plenty of free time to relax and soak up the local atmosphere, this trip perfectly balances active exploration with laid-back moments in some of Costa Rica’s most captivating settings.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
9 daysHotel Rating
-5 star hotelsStarts
San JoseEnds
San JoseMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Costa Rica that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Country
Costa RicaPassengers
$5,617.50
$2,808.75
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 30
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Group Size
Min 1 / Max 30Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Group ToursAccommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Itinerary
Day 1 - San Jose
Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José, you will be met and guided to your transport. Enjoy a comfortable drive to your hotel in the city, where you will spend your first night in Costa Rica. This allows time to settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead. Overnight in San José.
Day 2 - San Carlos
After an early breakfast at the hotel, we travel northwest from San Jose to the scenic La Fortuna region, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities or to join one of the optional activities on offer. A popular choice is a visit to the nearby Tabacon Hot Springs, where you can unwind in naturally heated volcanic waters surrounded by rainforest and views of the volcano. The hot springs feature well-designed pools, waterfalls and wet bars, providing a memorable experience. Please note that the visit to Tabacon Hot Springs is not included. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 3 - San Carlos
After breakfast, we take a guided walking tour of Arenal Volcano National Park. Your guide will explain the volcano’s active periods and the geological history of this once very active site. As we explore the lush surroundings beneath the now-dormant volcano, keep an eye out for wildlife such as sloths, howler monkeys and anteaters that inhabit the park. After the tour, return to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon. You may choose to relax or join one of the optional activities available. A popular option is the Arenal Nature Night Hike, which offers a chance to discover the rainforest’s nocturnal creatures—amphibians, reptiles and insects—guided by an experienced naturalist. This night hike is not included. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 4 - Tortuguero
We begin early with a road journey to the town of Guapiles, enjoying a delicious breakfast along the way. From there, we continue by boat through the lush jungle, cruising the scenic rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. Upon arrival, we check in and have lunch at our eco-lodge. Later, we take another boat trip to visit the charming Tortuguero village. Here, you can stroll along its neatly arranged streets, explore the tranquil beaches and meet the local community. During the turtle hatching season—from September to December—we will watch for baby turtles making their way to the sea. The remainder of the day is yours to relax at the lodge, surrounded by tropical forest and abundant wildlife. Overnight in Tortuguero.
Day 5 - Tortuguero
Today offers a leisurely morning to relax by the pool before embarking on a three-hour guided tour of Tortuguero National Park. We will explore the park’s rich biodiversity, spotting over 350 protected species including birds, monkeys, crocodiles and sloths amid lush tropical vegetation. During the July to September season, you may choose to join an optional Late Night Turtle Nesting Tour, available to purchase at the lodge, to witness turtles nesting on the beach. Alternatively, adventure seekers can opt for the Tortuguero Canopy Tour, which features 11 platforms, four suspension bridges, seven cables, a climbing wall and a Tarzan swing. Both optional tours are not included. You will spend a second night at the eco-lodge in Tortuguero.
Day 6 - Tortugero - Guapiles - Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Rise early and travel by boat back to Guapiles, where you will transfer to a local restaurant for a delicious lunch. Afterwards, take a shared transfer to the charming Puerto Viejo area. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, soaking up the vibrant Caribbean atmosphere and exploring the rich Afro-Caribbean culture that defines this region. Overnight in Puerto Viejo.
Day 7 - Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting out for an active day exploring Cahuita National Park. Begin with a snorkelling tour aboard a small boat, accompanied by a captain and guide, to discover Costa Rica’s most significant coral reef. You’ll spend around two hours observing a variety of coral species and marine life, including tropical fish, sharks, eels, and sea urchins. All snorkelling equipment—mask, fins and snorkel—is provided. After the underwater adventure, refresh with a tropical fruit snack and water. Then, embark on a guided 3.5-kilometre hike through the park, from Cahuita Point to the town of Cahuita. Your naturalist guide will point out local wildlife such as snakes, sloths, white-faced and howler monkeys, anteaters and armadillos. The tour concludes with a delicious Caribbean lunch. Afterwards, return to your hotel where you can relax and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of the Southern Caribbean coast. Overnight in Puerto Viejo.
Day 8 - San Jose
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast before transferring back to San Jose in the early afternoon for your final night in Costa Rica. You can spend the evening unwinding at your hotel or exploring the charming streets of San Jose at your leisure. Overnight in San Jose.
Day 9 - San Jose
Enjoy a final breakfast in San Jose before your private transfer to Juan Santamaria International Airport. This marks the end of your time in Costa Rica as you prepare to board your flight home or continue to your next destination. Breakfast is included.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Reviews
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.

Accommodation Standard
Prices
Prices & Dates
'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices (if available) are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room.
Can't find a date that works for you?
Looking for a date not yet released?
Similar Tours
Explore more exciting tours in Costa Rica to discover even more unforgettable adventures!

On The Go Tours
Our agents are waiting to chat to you...
Are you a Travel Agent or Customer?
Do you have an booking reference?


