Costa Rica Essentials Plus Manuel Antonio Experience
This 10-day tour starts in San José and finishes at Juan Santamaría International Airport, offering a fantastic mix of wildlife, adventure and relaxation. You’ll explore the lush canals of Tortuguero National Park, hike the dramatic lava trails of Arenal Volcano and unwind in natural hot springs. The journey continues through the misty cloud forests of Monteverde before heading to the stunning Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio. Expect to kayak along pristine shorelines, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and soak up the laid-back beach vibes. With a great balance of nature, culture and active experiences, this trip showcases the best of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
10 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
R 42 888,75
R 5 000,00
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 in the city, where you will spend your first night in Costa Rica. Settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead. Overnight in San José.
Day 2 - San Jose - 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 included lunch before joining a guided walk around Tortuguero village. Visit the Turtles Museum, where a small donation is appreciated, then return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3 - Roxana
After breakfast, we set out at 9:00 am for a two-hour boat tour through the Tortuguero canals, a highlight of the 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. The rest of the day is yours to relax at the lodge or join optional local tours. Lunch and dinner are included, with overnight accommodation at the hotel in Tortuguero.
Day 4 - Tortuguero - Arenal - San Carlos
After breakfast, we leave Tortuguero at around 9:00 am, travelling by shared boat and land transfers back to Guapiles. We stop for lunch at a local restaurant at approximately 1:00 pm, which is included. Following the meal, you will be collected by shared transfer and taken to the Arenal area. We expect to arrive in Arenal by 5:00 pm for check-in, after which you can enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 5 - San Carlos
After breakfast, we collect you from your hotel to begin a guided hike along the lava trails of Arenal Volcano. Your expert guide will share insights into the volcano’s history, its periods of activity, and point out notable landmarks formed by past eruptions. Along the way, you’ll observe the unique vegetation and local wildlife that thrive in this environment. After the hike, return to the hotel to unwind in the natural hot springs. Nestled at the base of Arenal Volcano, these geothermal pools offer a tranquil setting surrounded by rainforest, providing a perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 6 - Monteverde
After an early breakfast, check out of your hotel and meet your guide at around 7:30 am for the transfer to Monteverde. Travel down to Lake Arenal, where you will board a boat to cross the lake, arriving at the opposite shore by approximately 11:30 am. From there, a vehicle will take you up to Monteverde, ascending to 1,200 metres above sea level. This journey reveals the shift from rainforest to cloud forest. Monteverde, in Puntarenas province, is known for its misty cloud forests, coffee plantations, and abundant wildlife. The nearby town of Santa Elena offers a charming atmosphere with artisan shops and welcoming restaurants. You will have the remainder of the day at leisure to explore or relax. Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 7 - Monteverde
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day at leisure to relax or explore the remarkable Monteverde Cloud Forest at your own pace. This unique environment offers a chance to discover diverse flora and fauna amid misty cloud forest surroundings. Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 8 - Monteverde - Manuel Antonio - Quepos
After breakfast, we will collect you for a shared transfer to your next stop, the charming village of Manuel Antonio on the Pacific coast. Known for its golden beaches and warm climate, Manuel Antonio offers a relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Upon arrival, you can take some time to explore the area or enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters just steps from your hotel. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 9 - Samara
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off for an exciting coastal adventure. We travel by bus to Pez Vela Marina in Quepos, where you will embark on an open-seat ocean kayak tour along the stunning Manuel Antonio coastline. Paddle through the clear waters to Biesanz Bay, a natural gem where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and savour local snacks. Your guide will lead you to prime snorkelling spots among vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Continue kayaking towards Manuel Antonio National Park, with your naturalist guide pointing out favourite nesting sites and areas rich in marine life. After your active morning, relax over a hot lunch featuring traditional Costa Rican flavours at a popular beachside restaurant before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 10 - Manuel Antonio - San Jose
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and at the arranged time, board your transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport for your onward flight. This concludes your journey through Costa Rica.
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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