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Tour Details

Pura Vida Costa Rica - Premium Adventure

The best of Costa Rica from the Caribbean to the Pacific

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Tour Code : AHP

The journey is provided by

Destinations : Costa Rica

Tour Starts : San José

Tour Ends : San José

Group Size : 4 - 14

Ages : 16+

Activity :

13 days from

NOK 74 400

Overview

The best of Costa Rica from the Caribbean to the Pacific

Costa Rican culture can be encapsulated by the saying pura vida, meaning pure life. Costa Ricans believe in living life to the full, as well as taking time to slow down and appreciate nature. Join us for a taste of the pura vida lifestyle on this tropical adventure, while staying at handpicked premium hotels. Discover the vast network of canals and wildlife-rich waterways of Tortuguero, hike along the flanks of Arenal volcano and swim in the therapeutic natural pools of Rio Perdido – the Lost River – an ancient indigenous gathering place with dramatic topography. We finish at Tamarindo on the Pacific coast, arguably the best beach in the country. Costa Rica will not disappoint, and our team of naturalist guides couldn’t be more excited to welcome you.

Highlights

Enjoy the lush rainforest, cloud forest, mangroves, volcanoes and beaches of Costa Rica
Float down the Tortuguero waterways searching for monkeys, caiman and birds
Take a rainforest volcano hike in Arenal 1968 park, passing eerie lava fields
Spend two nights at the beautiful Rio Perdido riverside jungle lodge and swim in natural thermal pools
Stay in the Tamarindo Diria beachfront hotel and enjoy sundowners with the best view along the Pacific coast

Key Information

Accommodation: 10 Premium nights (hotels), 2 Superior nights (lodge)
Travel by private air-conditioned bus and on open-sided boats around Tortuguero National Park
Group normally 4 to 12 plus tour leader. Minimum age: 16

Included

All breakfasts, three lunches, seven dinners
Two boat tours of the waterways in Tortuguero National Park
Guided hike in Arenal 1968 Park
Guided hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
Selvatura Park's treetop hanging bridges excursion
Guided nature walk in Monteverde Cloud Forest
Guided nature walk in Rio Perdido private reserve
Access to hot springs at Arenal Springs Hotel
Access to thermal pools at Rio Perdido
Sundowners at the Tamarindo Diria
Tipping for all hotel, drivers and local staff
Named tour leader, chosen for their expertise and great customer feedback
Free arrival and departure transfers to/from San Jose Airport

Not included

International flights
Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations
Tipping for the naturalist guide

Itinerary

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Day 1: Start San José
Pura vida Costa Rica! Today is our arrival day and our local team is waiting to welcome you. Most flights arrive in San José in the afternoon or early evening and there are free transfers to the hotel for all clients. Our centrally located premium hotel is full of historic charm with an excellent address on the pedestrian boulevard Avenida Central in the heart of San José. Premium accommodation: Gran Hotel Costa Rica (four-star)
Day 2: To Tortuguero National Park
Our adventure begins early this morning, leaving San José behind as we travel to the wildly beautiful Tortuguero National Park in northeast Costa Rica. Accessible only by boat or light aircraft, the vast network of waterways, canals and swamps in Tortuguero is remarkably tranquil, unspoilt and devoid of noise pollution. Immerse yourself in enchanting sights and sounds as we set off on a small motorboat for the 1hr 30min journey to our lodge, which is nestled on a tranquil strip of land in the main lagoon. Discover the picturesque surroundings and Tortuguero village. Tortuguero is probably most famous as a nesting site for the endangered green turtle, which can be seen arriving onto the beach to lay eggs from late July to October (as part of an optional excursion). Hawksbill, loggerhead and giant leatherback turtles also nest in this region, and during November to January, baby turtles hatch and make their way towards the ocean. Today's travel time will be in the region of six hours including a breakfast stop. Superior Accommodation: Aninga Lodge
Day 3: Boat tours around Tortuguero waterways
After breakfast, we discover the extraordinary flora and fauna of Tortuguero, passing serenely along the waterways of the national park by boat. Wildlife is usually at its most active in the early morning, and with the help of our expert guide we are likely to encounter monkeys, caiman, iguanas, butterflies and many of the 300-plus bird species recorded here. This afternoon, we explore the scenic waterways on a second boat trip along a different canal or relax at the lodge and make the most of the wonderful facilities. Alternatively, immerse yourself in nature and follow a short walking trail through the lush forest. Superior Accommodation: Aninga Lodge
Day 4: To La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano
We leave Tortuguero by taking a boat back to the main pier. Our transport will be at the pier waiting to drive us to the diverse region of Arenal, passing huge banana, pineapple and sugar cane plantations on the way. Today's travelling time is around 5hr 30min including a lunch stop. Arenal was the most active volcano in Costa Rica until 2010 when it entered a resting phase and stopped spitting ash, smoke and lava. However, there is still a lot of geothermal activity in the area, and our premium accommodation has hot springs to enjoy. Take a dip in the natural thermal pools, which are rich in mineral salts and ions, leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed. Surrounded by tropical plants and waterfalls cascading over river rocks, you will feel as though you’re soaking in the rainforest. Premium accommodation: Arenal Manoa (four-star)
Day 5: Volcano hike in Arenal 1968
Embark on a guided hike within the fascinating park of Arenal 1968, walking through secondary rainforest and passing lava fields formed by eruptions. Walking on the base and flanks of the volcano gives extraordinary views, and our expert leader explains the history and points out the remaining landmarks. Savour the views over Lake Arenal from the high vantage points on this walk and look out for the plentiful birdlife. This afternoon is free to join one of the optional activities in this region. Premium accommodation: Arenal Manoa (four-star)
Day 6: La Fortuna Waterfall hike; to Monteverde in the Tilaran Mountains
This morning, witness the immense La Fortuna Waterfall, a 215ft (65m) cascade plunging into an emerald pool. Waterfalls are abundant in Arenal, and their clear pools are perfect for a refreshing dip. We walk through verdant rainforest to a relatively steep set of steps that we must descend to reach the waterfall and then ascend to the exit – the hike/climb takes around 20 to 30 minutes and is within the capabilities of anyone with reasonable fitness. Reward your efforts with a dip in one of the natural pools dotted amongst the foliage to cool off. Alternatively, enjoy the beautiful views from the lookout point. Afterwards, we cross into the Tilaran Mountain Range, a Unesco World Heritage site in the Central Highlands, to experience the Costa Rican cloud forest. The journey provides incredible views of the Gulf of Nicoya and the islands below as we ascend the hills towards Monteverde, a forest-cloaked region whose name means Green Mountain. The high altitude supports a complex ecosystem where plants thrive, particularly orchids, of which there are 400-plus varieties here. Today's drive is around four hours — the last 25mi (40km) of road is gravel and can be bumpy, particularly following heavy rain. Premium accommodation: Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco (four-star)
Day 7: Visit Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve; treetop hanging bridges excursion
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a favourite destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, where the geographic, topographic and climatic conditions have allowed for a surprising biodiversity to thrive. A walk through the reserve will reveal huge old-growth trees covered in moss, while the surrounding mist permeates the atmosphere. Explore this impressive reserve on foot and witness the four ecological life zones that harbour different ecosystems for hundreds of species – mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, insects and arachnids. We can also see a variety of mosses, vines and trees typical of the cloud forest. The Monteverde Cloud Forest is also one of the few remaining habitats of the endangered resplendent quetzal. In the afternoon, we visit Selvatura Park, an extraordinary ecological park with 850 acres (345ha) of protected land dedicated to nature and adventure. Explore the forested park during a much-adored experience in Costa Rica – the treetop walkway. The system of walkways above the treetops has been designed to let you experience the beauty of the cloud forest and observe the many inhabitants. Premium accommodation: Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco (four-star)
Day 8: To Rio Perdido: the Lost River
This morning we travel towards our next destination, Rio Perdido (Lost River) in the Guanacaste province. Stood upon a raised rocky peninsula where two canyons converge, Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River has a vantage point overlooking the forest, canyon and river. Trees as tall as the canyon camouflage the river, which explains the name. This setting was once a gathering place for the Chorotega indigenous ethnic group, and many relics have been found here over the years. The private 600-acre (243ha) reserve surrounding the hotel has incredibly diverse flora and fauna thanks to the unique setting next to a thermal river – tropical dry forest, rainforest and rugged terrain all surround the property, giving way to a vast diversity of species. Families of howler monkeys and white-faced capuchin monkeys are regularly seen. This is an adventure seeker's paradise, where you can try thrilling optional activities such as zip lining, white-water tubing (subject to local conditions), mountain biking and hiking. Today's travelling time is around three hours. Premium accommodation: Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River (four-star)
Day 9: Rio Perdido guided walk; afternoon for optional activities
Explore 20mi (32km) of private trails, connected to the Rio Perdido Hotel by a 200ft (61m) hanging bridge, and go in search of exotic wildlife including mammals, reptiles, insects, amphibians and birds. We’ll discover the network of trails during an included guided hike and learn more about the different habitats in this unique location. Sink into one of the natural thermal mineral pools at the hotel and unwind with lush vegetation and the canyon walls as a backdrop. The eight registered springs give rise to pools of hot and cold mineralised water for prolonged relaxation and bathing. Alternatively, if you prefer to get the adrenalin flowing, try one of the optional activities from zip lining to white-water tubing (subject to local conditions) during our free afternoon. Premium accommodation: Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River (four-star)
Day 10: To Tamarindo
We wave goodbye to the magical Rio Perdido and travel to Tamarindo on the Nicoya Peninsula. Once a fishing village, Tamarindo was discovered by surfers in the late 1980s and has steadily grown a reputation as one of the best beach destinations in the country. Located in Guanacaste province, known for having good weather and predictable sunshine, Tamarindo has a great mix of facilities and retains an authentic, laid-back atmosphere. The big draw here is the long expanse of beach, with a curved bay backed by palms, cafes and restaurants. Soak up the sunshine, beach life and heavenly coastal views – a real contrast to our adventure so far. The waves are strong and loved by surfers, with swimmers mostly staying to the shallow surf breaking on the shore. Our beachfront hotel couldn’t be better located, with palm trees framing what is, in our opinion, the best Pacific view in Costa Rica. In the evening, be sure to catch the deep-orange sunsets that cast a warm glow over Tamarindo. Premium accommodation: Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort (four-star)
Day 11: Free day to enjoy the Pacific coast; sunset drinks
Make the most of leisure time today and enjoy the beachfront utopia of Tamarindo. There are plenty of excursions that can be organised locally: have a go at surfing, learn to stand-up paddleboard, book a massage at the hotel spa, or simply enjoy the beach and surroundings. This evening we celebrate with sunset drinks on the beach – a toast to our wonderful adventure. There are some fantastic restaurants in Tamarindo, and we highly recommend the seafood here. Premium accommodation: Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort (four-star)
Day 12: To San José
Spend a few hours this morning enjoying Tamarindo beach or the hotel facilities for the last time, before we check out and transfer back to San José, a journey of approximately 5-6hrs. Premium accommodation: Gran Hotel Costa Rica (four-star)
Day 13: End San José
The trip comes to an end today after breakfast and it's time to bid Costa Rica and the rest of the group goodbye. Free transfers to San José airport are available to all clients today.

Photos

Important Information

The trip destination

Accommodation: 10 Premium nights (hotels), 2 Superior nights (lodge)
Travel by private air-conditioned bus and on open-sided boats around Tortuguero National Park
Group normally 4 to 12 plus tour leader. Minimum age: 16

Food

All breakfasts, three lunches and seven dinners included. Hotel breakfasts are normally buffet-style. Vegetarian and vegan options are limited but food is plentiful and tasty – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. Costa Rican specialities include gallo pinto, a black bean and rice dish and a staple part of the local diet. Soups and stews are also common, and fresh fruit is abundant and will no doubt be one of the highlights of your time in the tropics.

Weather

Costa Rica is 10 degrees north of the equator and has a tropical climate. The average annual temperature is around 26C (79F) in the lowlands and 10C (50F) in the highest mountain regions. However, it’s essential you prepare for the time of year in which your departure takes place.

Dry season (December to April): This is the driest period of the year and can get incredibly hot; on the Pacific side, temperatures may exceed 37C (98F). If passing through areas of dry tropical forest it can be hot, dusty and dry. Prepare for some rain even during this time of year.

Rainy season (May to November): Expect daily downpours, although these are usually quite short and there is still plenty of sunshine. Typically, there are sunny conditions until approximately 1pm-2pm and then a build-up of cloud from around 3pm, resulting in late afternoon rain (most likely showers between 3pm-5pm). Usually, the sky clears by 6pm.

Is this trip for you?

This trip is graded Activity Level 1 (Easy). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

Most of the roads we travel on are good quality. However, the road that leads to the river on the way to and from Tortuguero has a poor surface and this can result in slow driving times, particularly following heavy rain. There are also some longer drives on the itinerary; when rest stops and meal breaks are taken into account, a 4-hour drive may take 6-7 hours in total.

There are some nature walks on the itinerary, which occasionally involve walking on rough paths. During times of heavy rain, trails can be muddy and slippery and extra care should be taken. Many of the areas visited on the trip are hot and humid and there is the chance of heavy rain year-round – this is why Costa Rica is so green.

Please note, the sea in the Tortuguero region has very strong rip currents and is not suitable for swimming from the beach.

Prices / Dates

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sdsd AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	Single room supplement	TRAVEL STATUS
Sat, 11 Jan 2025 / Thu, 23 Jan 2025	NOK 74 400	On request	Not available	Available
Sat, 08 Feb 2025 / Thu, 20 Feb 2025	NOK 74 400	On request	Not available	Available
Sat, 08 Mar 2025 / Thu, 20 Mar 2025	NOK 74 400	On request	Not available	Available

AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT	TRAVEL STATUS
Sat, 11 Jan 2025 / Thu, 23 Jan 2025	NOK 74 400	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 08 Feb 2025 / Thu, 20 Feb 2025	NOK 74 400	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 08 Mar 2025 / Thu, 20 Mar 2025	NOK 74 400	On request	Not available	On request

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