Costa Rica Essentials Experience
This 14-day tour starts and ends in San José, offering a fantastic mix of wildlife, volcanoes, cloud forests and beach time. You’ll explore the lush canals of Tortuguero National Park, spotting abundant wildlife and visiting local villages. Then it’s on to the Arenal area to relax in natural hot springs and hike volcanic lava trails. Next, discover the misty cloud forests of Monteverde with visits to butterfly gardens and plenty of free time to soak up the unique atmosphere. Finally, unwind on the sun-soaked beaches of Tamarindo before returning to San José for your departure. A brilliant blend of adventure and relaxation.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
14 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
£4,995.00
£2,497.50
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 in vibrant San José, you will be met by our representative who will assist you to your shared transfer. This will take you directly to your hotel, where you will spend your first night in Costa Rica. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, settling in and preparing for the adventures ahead. Overnight in San José.
Day 2 - Tortuguero
We collect you from your hotel at around 6.30 am to begin the shared bus transfer through Braulio Carrillo National Park, offering impressive mountain views and glimpses of charming villages as we head towards the Caribbean plains. Around 8.30 am, we stop for a delicious breakfast at a restaurant in Guapiles before continuing by boat through the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. Upon arrival at your eco-lodge, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch. In the afternoon, we take a guided walk around Tortuguero village, including a visit to the Turtles Museum (a small donation of $1 is suggested). We return to the lodge in time for dinner and an overnight stay in Tortuguero.
Day 3 - Roxana
After breakfast, we set off at 9 am for a two-hour boat tour through the Tortuguero canals—an essential experience in this region. Guided by an expert naturalist, we explore the intricate network of waterways, lagoons and dense rainforest, home to a remarkable variety of wildlife including numerous species of amphibians, reptiles and mammals. Afterwards, we take another boat ride to Tortuguero village, where you can stroll through the town, observe local life and walk along the beach. Dinner is served back at the hotel. Overnight in Tortuguero.
Day 4 - Tortuguero - Arenal - San Carlos
After breakfast, we depart Tortuguero at around 9 am, travelling by shared boat and land transfers back to Guapiles. We pause for lunch at a local restaurant at approximately 1 pm. Following the meal, a shared transfer will take you to the Arenal area, where you will arrive by 5 pm for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your leisure. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 5 - San Carlos
After breakfast, spend the morning unwinding in the hotel’s natural hot springs. Nestled at the foot of the impressive Arenal Volcano, the springs are heated by the volcano’s geothermal activity, offering a tranquil setting surrounded by rainforest. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take time to relax in this natural sanctuary. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore or simply rest. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 6 - San Carlos
After breakfast, we will collect you from your hotel to begin a hike along the lava trails of Arenal Volcano. Your expert guide will share insights into the volcano’s history and periods of activity, pointing out notable landmarks formed over the years. Along the way, you’ll observe the unique vegetation and may spot some local wildlife. After the hike, return to the hotel to unwind in the natural hot springs, enjoying the peaceful rainforest surroundings and the hotel’s relaxing amenities. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 7 - Arenal - Monteverde
Begin the day with an early breakfast before checking out of your hotel. Meet your guide at around 7.30 am and transfer to Arenal Lake, where you will board a boat to cross to Monteverde. Arrive at approximately 11.30 am, then continue by vehicle up to Monteverde, ascending to 1,200 metres above sea level. Here, the rainforest gives way to cloud forest, a unique ecosystem known for its misty atmosphere, coffee plantations, and abundant wildlife including monkeys. The nearby town of Santa Elena is charming and compact, offering a selection of welcoming restaurants and artisan shops. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure to explore or relax. Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 8 - Monteverde
After breakfast, meet your guide for a visit to one of the largest butterfly gardens in the Americas. The garden spans 300 feet in length, 90 feet in width and rises 50 feet high beneath a specially designed dome that regulates the internal temperature. This environment supports over 30 butterfly species from various altitudes and climates across Costa Rica. As you explore the lush gardens and observe the butterflies up close, your knowledgeable guide will explain their life cycles, behaviours and share fascinating facts. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax or explore Monteverde independently. Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 9 - Monteverde
After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure in Monteverde. You may choose to relax at the hotel or explore the area independently, including the renowned Cloud Forest. Optional excursions are available if you wish to discover more of what Monteverde has to offer. Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 10 - Monteverde - Tamarindo
After breakfast, we collect you at around 8.30 am for the transfer to the beautiful Guanacaste region on the Pacific coast. The journey takes approximately four hours, bringing you to the vibrant beach town of Tamarindo. Upon arrival, you can spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets, enjoying the local atmosphere, or simply relaxing with the hotel’s facilities. Overnight in Tamarindo.
Day 11 - Tamarindo
Tamarindo offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can enjoy the warm sun and unwind on its stunning beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, try surfing the well-known waves that draw enthusiasts from around the world. Spend the day at your leisure, exploring the local area or relaxing with the hotel’s amenities. Overnight in Tamarindo.
Day 12 - Tamarindo
After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure in Tamarindo. You may choose to explore the vibrant town, relax on the beach, or make the most of your hotel’s facilities. Overnight in Tamarindo.
Day 13 - San Jose
After breakfast, we will collect you from your hotel and transfer you to your chosen accommodation in San José, marking your return to the capital. You will have the evening at leisure to relax or explore the city independently. Overnight in San José.
Day 14 - San Jose
Start your final day in Costa Rica with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. When the time comes, we will transfer you to Juan Santamaría International Airport for your onward flight, whether returning home or continuing your journey.
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.
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