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?
15+ Day Costa Rica Itineraries
8 Tours
20 - 30 Max Group Size
When do you want to go?
2026
I'm flexible
Passengers
Adults (18+)
Children (0 - 17)
Pura Vida Unhurried: 15+ Days Across Costa Rica
Settle into Costa Rica’s nature, coast, and wildlife with a longer multi-stop trip.
Costa Rica is a strong choice if you want more than a quick stop and prefer enough time to travel comfortably between regions. These 15+ day trips combine beaches, rainforest and wildlife parks at a relaxed, well-spaced pace, so you can enjoy the scenery rather than simply ticking off highlights. You will find guided tours, shared group trips and self-drive holidays, which makes it easier to match the level of support, structure and independence you prefer. On one day you might wake up in a surf town on the Pacific coast, then travel inland for cloud forest walks and hanging bridges, with a cooler climate and a very different feel. Later in the trip, you could finish with a boat ride through jungle canals and keep an eye out for sloths, monkeys and bright birds along the banks. Many itineraries stay entirely in Costa Rica, although some longer routes extend into Mexico or Panama for a broader Central America experience.
Best 15+ day itineraries
Santa Teresa Nature Experience
This 15-day tour starts in Liberia and finishes back there, offering a fantastic blend of beach time, wildlife, and cultural experiences across Costa Rica. You’ll explore laid-back coastal spots like Tamarindo, Samara, and Santa Teresa, perfect for relaxing or surfing. Inland, discover the lush rainforests of Tortuguero and Sarapiqui with boat safaris and wildlife spotting. Adventure awaits near Arenal Volcano with guided walks and optional activities like canopy tours or hot springs. Finally, immerse yourself in the cloud forests of Monteverde, enjoying hikes and coffee tours. It’s a well-paced journey showcasing stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and vibrant local culture.
Tour Highlights
Tamarindo: This busy beach resort is great for a night out, surfing, and exploring the eclectic dining scene.
Samara: A relaxed beach town great for soaking up the sun and enjoying the breezy atmosphere.
Santa Teresa: Located on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, this beautiful beach getaway is about as far away from the big city as you can get.
San Jose: Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city was founded in the mid-18th century, boasting great cultural and historical landmarks. Visit its museums, the European-inspired National Theatre, and stroll the charming alleys of its historic neighbourhoods.
Tortuguero: This park is home to the nesting grounds of the green sea turtles, offering spectacular beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds.
Sarapiqui: Neighbouring the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a great area for animal spotting, this magnificent region is known for its kayaking and white-water rafting.
Arenal: Admire one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the country and its mesmerising park, dotted with trails and rich in wildlife.
Monteverde: Settled by American Quakers in the 1950s, this primary cloud forest is made up of six unique ‘life zones’ and is home to many endangered species and an enormous variety of plant life.
Complete Costa Rica Journey
This 15-day tour starts and ends in San José, taking you on a vibrant journey through Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes. You’ll explore the lush rainforests and canals of Tortuguero, unwind on the Caribbean beaches of Puerto Viejo, and soak in the natural hot springs near Arenal Volcano. The adventure continues with thrilling zipline rides and visits to La Fortuna Waterfall, followed by the mystical cloud forests of Monteverde. Finally, you’ll relax on the stunning Pacific shores of Manuel Antonio before returning to San José. Expect a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and relaxation throughout this unforgettable trip.
Tour Highlights
Tortuguero: This park is home to the nesting grounds of the green sea turtles, offering spectacular beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds.
Arenal: Admire one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the country and its mesmerising park, dotted with trails and rich in wildlife.
Monteverde: Settled by American Quakers in the 1950s, this primary cloud forest is made out of six unique ‘life zones’, hosting many endangered species, as well as a variety of fascinating plants.
Manuel Antonio: This picturesque national park is the smallest one in Costa Rica but it is full of wild animals, lush vegetation, and beautiful beaches.
Tambor Nature Experience
This 15-day tour starts in Liberia and finishes back there, offering a fantastic blend of beach time, wildlife, and adventure. You'll kick off with relaxing beaches in Tamarindo and Samara, enjoy a thrilling ocean safari, then unwind in the tranquil fishing village of Tambor. The journey continues to San Jose and the lush Tortuguero National Park, where you can spot turtles and tropical wildlife. Explore the rainforest around Sarapiqui with optional rafting or canopy tours, then head to Arenal for volcano views and hot springs. Finally, discover the cloud forests of Monteverde before returning to Liberia. A perfect mix of nature, culture, and chill time.
Tour Highlights
Tamarindo: This busy beach resort is great for a night out, surfing, and exploring the eclectic dining scene.
Samara: A relaxed beach town great for soaking up the sun and enjoying the breezy atmosphere.
Tambor Beach: Framed by a charming horseshoe-shaped bay, this secluded beach boasts beautiful, volcanic sands and an abundance of tranquillity.
San Jose: Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city was founded in the mid-18th century, boasting great cultural and historical landmarks. Visit its museums, the European-inspired National Theatre, and stroll the charming alleys of its historic neighbourhoods.
Tortuguero: This park is home to the nesting grounds of the green sea turtles, offering spectacular beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds.
Sarapiqui: Neighbouring the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a great area for animal spotting, this magnificent region is known for its kayaking and white-water rafting.
Arenal: Admire one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the country and its mesmerising park, dotted with trails and rich in wildlife.
Monteverde: Settled by American Quakers in the 1950s, this primary cloud forest is made up of six unique ‘life zones’ and is home to many endangered species and an enormous variety of plant life.
Santa Teresa Nature Self-Drive
This 15-day tour starts in Liberia and finishes back there, offering a fantastic blend of beach vibes, rainforest adventures, and cultural experiences. You’ll kick off with relaxing beach days in Tamarindo, Sámara, and Santa Teresa – perfect for soaking up the sun or catching some waves. Then, explore the vibrant capital, San José, before heading to Tortuguero’s lush canals and wildlife. The journey continues through Sarapiquí’s rainforest, Arenal’s volcano and hot springs, and the misty Monteverde Cloud Forest. Expect a great mix of nature, wildlife spotting, optional adrenaline activities, and plenty of time to unwind in stunning surroundings.
Tour Highlights
Tamarindo: This busy beach resort is great for a night out, surfing, and exploring the eclectic dining scene.
Samara: A relaxed beach town great for soaking up the sun and enjoying the breezy atmosphere.
Santa Teresa: Located on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, this beautiful beach getaway is about as far away from the big city as you can get.
San Jose: Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city was founded in the mid-18th century, boasting great cultural and historical landmarks. Visit its museums, the European-inspired National Theatre, and stroll the charming alleys of its historic neighbourhoods.
Tortuguero: This park is home to the nesting grounds of the green sea turtles, offering spectacular beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds.
Sarapiqui: Neighbouring the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a great area for animal spotting, this magnificent region is known for its kayaking and white-water rafting.
Arenal: Admire one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the country and its mesmerising park, dotted with trails and rich in wildlife.
Monteverde: Settled by American Quakers in the 1950s, this primary cloud forest is made up of six unique ‘life zones’ and is home to many endangered species and an enormous variety of plant life.
Tambor Nature Self-Drive
This 15-day tour starts in Liberia and finishes back there, offering a fantastic blend of beach time, wildlife, and adventure. You’ll unwind on stunning Pacific beaches like Tamarindo, Samara, and Tambor before heading to the vibrant capital, San José. Then it’s off to Tortuguero’s lush canals for wildlife spotting and village life. The journey continues through the rainforest of Sarapiqui with optional rafting and chocolate tours, followed by Arenal’s volcano views and thrilling canopy tours. Finally, explore the misty Monteverde Cloud Forest with its incredible biodiversity before returning to Liberia. Expect a perfect mix of relaxation, nature, and culture throughout.
Tour Highlights
Tamarindo: This busy beach resort is great for a night out, surfing, and exploring the eclectic dining scene.
Samara: A relaxed beach town great for soaking up the sun and enjoying the breezy atmosphere.
Tambor Beach: Framed by a charming horseshoe-shaped bay, this secluded beach boasts beautiful, volcanic sands and an abundance of tranquillity.
San Jose: Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city was founded in the mid-18th century, boasting great cultural and historical landmarks. Visit its museums, the European-inspired National Theatre, and stroll the charming alleys of its historic neighbourhoods.
Tortuguero: This park is home to the nesting grounds of the green sea turtles, offering spectacular beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds.
Sarapiqui: Neighbouring the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a great area for animal spotting, this magnificent region is known for its kayaking and white-water rafting.
Arenal: Admire one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the country and its mesmerising park, dotted with trails and rich in wildlife.
Monteverde: Settled by American Quakers in the 1950s, this primary cloud forest is made up of six unique ‘life zones’ and is home to many endangered species and an enormous variety of plant life.
Wonders of Central America
Discover the natural and cultural highlights of six Central American countries on this three-week tour which travels from Panama to Guatemala. Visit wildlife-rich national parks and remote islands, uncover ancient secrets in Mayan ruins and roam around colonial cities.
Tour Highlights
Panama City - Visit the famous Panama Canal and explore Central America's most cosmopolitan and wealthy capital
Boquete - Explore the heart of Panama's coffee growing region
Sarapiqui - Visit some of the wonderful national parks in the area or the Sarapiqui River
Monteverde National Park - Hike through the beautiful cloud forest, shrouded in a canopy of cloud and home to a wonderful array of flora and fauna
Leon - Explore this charming old Colonial town
Granada - Stroll around Central America's oldest Colonial city on the shore of Lake Nicaragua
Ometepe - Spend three relaxing days on this exquisite volcanic island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua
Copan - Take a guided tour of the world famous Mayan Ruins of Copan
Antigua - Guatemala's delightful colonial town
Masaya National Park – Visit Nicaragua's beautiful volcanic crater lakes and walk to the rim of the active volcano
Suchitoto - Take in El Salvador's captivating cultural capital
Mexico to Costa Rica Adventure
GROUP TOUR (FOR AGES 18 to 49): Journey from Playa del Carmen on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula to San Jose in Costa Rica on this 30-day tour that also takes in Belize and Guatemala. Take in some of Central America's best ancient treasures, including Chichen Itza, Tulum and Tikal. Hike up the Arenal and Acatenango volcanoes, spot wildlife in national parks like Manuel Antonio and Sarapiqui. Cruise Lake Atitlan, meet local families across the region, and enjoy guided sightseeing in cities like San Jose, Antigua. With plenty of time for relaxation and swimming on the beaches of Playa del Carmen, Caye Caulker, Samara and more!
Tour Highlights
Chichen Itza - See one of the New Seven Wonders of the World on an included tour, and swim in a nearby cenote
Tulum - Discover the historic Tulum ruins and relax on the beach with a day trip to this popular destination on the Yucatan
Caye Caulker - Snorkel in the pristine waters of the Belize Barrier Reef and unwind on the serene beaches of this peaceful island
Flores - Explore the vast, ancient Tikal ruins with the towering Temple of the Grand Jaguar offering a glimpse into the mysteries of the Mayan civilization
Coban - Delve into the eerie Candelaria Caves, an 80km-long system believed to be the entrance to the Mayan underworld and enjoy a scenic drive through mountainous landscapes to Coban
Panajachel - Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and explore the peaceful villages along its shores
Antigua - Hike up Mayan Face Mountain under the moonlight and enjoy a panoramic sunrise over Lake Atitlan, plus enjoy plenty of free time in this colonial town
Acatenango - Embark on a challenging 7-hour hike to the summit of Acatenango for spectacular views of the Fuego volcano and its fiery eruptions
San Jose - Join a guided walking tour of the Costa Rican capital, taking in all of the city's main landmarks with a local guide
La Fortuna - Hike over hanging bridges in the jungle and explore further on a night-time nature walk, relax in hot springs and meet a local family
Sarapiqui - Enjoy white water rafting, embark on a leaf-cutter ant tour and head out after dark on a guided wildlife walk
Samara - Relax on the stunning beaches of the Guanacaste coast, with a guided excursion to explore the area and a full day at leisure
Esterillos - Spend a day exploring this lesser-visited coastal town, with time to relax on the beach and go surfing
Manuel Antonio National Park - Spot sloths and other wildlife as we explore Costa Rica's most-visited national park
Central America Expedition
GROUP TOUR (FOR AGES 18-49): Explore Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and Costa Rica on this 40-day tour, starting in Mexico City with its Aztec heritage, and moving through Oaxaca's markets and mezcal distilleries. Journey through Sumidero Canyon and San Cristobal de las Casas, then visit Isla Holbox's beaches and Mayan sites like Chichen Itza and Tulum. Continue to Bacalar's lagoon, Belize's reefs, and Caye Caulker for snorkelling, before experiencing Mayan cooking in Guatemala and exploring Tikal and the Candelaria Caves. Embark on a 4x4 adventure into the highlands, followed by a hike and swim in blue pools, with a traditional Mayan lunch. Visit Chichicastenango and Panajachel by Lake Atitlán, then take a boat to San Marcos and San Juan La Laguna. Hike Mayan Face Mountain at sunrise, then trek Acatenango volcano before heading to Costa Rica. Explore San Jose, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano and Sarapiqui, before visiting Liberia, a pottery village, and Samara’s beaches. Conclude with a visit to Esterillos, Manuel Antonio National Park, the Crocodile Bridge, and San Jose.
Tour Highlights
Mexico City - Explore the ancient Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor and immerse in history at Chapultepec Castle, set within a sprawling park
Oaxaca - Wander through vibrant markets showcasing local crafts and textiles and discover the art of mezcal production at traditional distilleries
Tikal - Uncover the grandeur of ancient Mayan ruins, including towering Temples I and II, surrounded by lush jungle pathways
Caye Caulker - Snorkel in the pristine waters of the Belize Barrier Reef and unwind on the serene beaches of this peaceful island
Antigua - Stroll through the UNESCO-listed cobbled streets and visit the iconic Santa Catalina Arch and its surrounding historic churches
San Jose - Discover Costa Rica's cultural heart with a visit to the National Theatre and the Jade Museum, home to pre-Columbian artifacts
La Fortuna - Hike over hanging bridges in the jungle and explore further on a night-time nature walk, relax in hot springs and meet a local family
Panajachel - Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and explore the peaceful villages along its shores
San Marcos - Relax in the tranquil atmosphere of this bohemian town and immerse in the serene beauty of its nature reserve
Chichicastenango - Experience indigenous Mayan traditions in the town's vibrant market and visit the colourful church of Santo Tomás
Cobán - Discover the stunning Candelaria Caves and visit a traditional Mayan village for an authentic cultural experience
Sarapiqui - Enjoy white water rafting, embark on a leaf-cutter ant tour and head out after dark on a guided wildlife walk
Manuel Antonio National Park - Walk through lush jungle trails while spotting wildlife like sloths and monkeys, then relax on the park's stunning beaches
Costa Rica 15+ day itineraries at a glance
Trip and guiding style
15+ day Costa Rica trips come in several formats, ranging from fully guided tours to partly guided itineraries with local experts for key activities, plus self-drive options for travellers who enjoy planning their own days. Many are operated by trusted local partners, with a clear route, reliable logistics and support from start to finish.
Accommodation
Hotels and lodges vary by trip, and the accommodation mix can include 2–4 star stays, 3-star hotels and homestays, or 3–4 star hotels; some itineraries also list -3 star hotels or -5 star hotels depending on the route. If a listed property is unavailable, an alternative of a similar standard is typically arranged so the overall trip style stays consistent.
Trip pacing
Pacing can differ across itineraries, but many Costa Rica trips follow a moderate rhythm, balancing travel days with time for nature, beaches and local experiences. Faster-paced options may involve earlier starts, longer drives and a more structured schedule across the 15+ days, which can suit travellers who want to cover more ground.
Frequently asked questions
What can you do in Costa Rica on a tour of 15 days or more?
Trips of 15 days and up cover Costa Rica in depth or pair it with neighbours. Routes link the Guanacaste beaches, Tortuguero, Arenal and Monteverde across the country. The extra days add more coast and rainforest stops.
Is 15 days or more enough for Costa Rica?
This length covers the country thoroughly, from the Pacific beaches to the Caribbean canals. Some routes extend into neighbouring Central America. It suits a deep exploration.
Are 15 day plus Costa Rica tours guided?
They run as fully guided, partially guided and self guided trips. Group and private formats are both offered. The self guided option lets you travel independently between booked stops.
How active is a long Costa Rica tour?
The activity level ranges from easy to fairly demanding, with rainforest walks and active wildlife days. The pace runs from medium to fairly brisk. Groups are capped at around 30.
How long are the longest Costa Rica tours?
These extended itineraries run from around 15 days up to several weeks. The length allows the full country or a Central America extension. The route covers jungle, forest and coast.
Explore more countries like Costa Rica!
Discover other destinations that offer similar experiences to Costa Rica.
