NB: Prices correct on 04-Feb-2025 but subject to change.
This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry
Tour Overview
Embark on a 7-day adventure through the lush landscapes of Costa Rica with the "Tropical Costa Rica" tour. Begin your journey in San José, then explore the ecotourism haven of Tortuguero, renowned for its intricate network of canals, lagoons, and dense rainforests. Discover the vibrant biodiversity of Sarapiqui, home to numerous nature reserves and national parks. Finally, unwind in the wellness paradise of Arenal, famous for its stunning volcano views and rejuvenating hot springs. Enjoy comfortable 3-star accommodations, guided tours, and convenient transfers, including a scenic boat ride to Tortuguero. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
Highlights
Tortuguero: Discover its network of canals, lagoons, and dense rainforests.
Arenal: This region is considered by many to be one of the most spectacular ones in the country.
La Fortuna area is recognized worldwide for being one of the most prominent wellness tourism destinations.
Sarapiqui: A unique town and river area with incredible biodiversity and adventure.
Visit several nature reserves, protected areas, and national parks in Sarapiqui.
Hike along the base and flanks of the Arenal Volcano in the Arenal 1968 park.
Relax and enjoy the hot springs of the Baldi Spa.
Itinerary
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Welcome to San Jose, Costa Rica! Our representative will greet you at the airport; assist you with your luggage and transfer to the hotel in San Jose.
Overnight in San Jose.
Day 2
:
San Jose – Tortuguero (120Km – 3Hrs)
Location: Tortuguero
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Pachira Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
At the agreed time in the morning, transportation will pick you up at the hotel to transfer you to your next destination, Tortuguero, one of the most famous conservation areas in Costa Rica, located in the north Caribbean. Breakfast included en-route. Arrive at the dock to board a boat that will take you to the lodge in Tortuguero. Around midday, have a delicious lunch at the lodge. During the afternoon, discover its network of canals, lagoons and dense rainforests through a boat tour guided by an expert naturalist guide. Abundant wildlife inhabits Tortuguero, including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. In the evening, savour dinner at the lodge.
Overnight in Tortuguero.
Day 3
:
Tortuguero
Location: Tortuguero
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Pachira Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Meet your guide for a mid-morning walk along the trails and discover the tropical rain forest of Tortuguero. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting village of Tortuguero; the town a small population of around 500, no cars, and is located on a relatively narrow spit of land between the beach and a canal. Take a closer encounter with the Caribbean culture; discover its people and lifestyle walking through this colourful town.
Overnight in Tortuguero.
Day 4
:
Tortuguero – Sarapiqui (100Km – 2Hrs)
Location: Sarapiqui
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Breakfast included at the hotel and then proceed to check-out. Afterwards, be ready to continue your trip. Shared transfer by boat and land from Tortuguero to the Restaurant located in Guápiles, where you will enjoy lunch (included). Then, a transfer will take you to your next destination, Sarapiqui. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy hotel facilities and relax.
Overnight in Sarapiqui.
Day 5
:
Sarapiqui – Arenal (80Km – 1.5Hr)
Location: Arenal
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Arenal Paraiso Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast included at the hotel and then proceed to check-out. During the morning a private transfer will take you to your next destination, La Fortuna, home of the colossus Arenal Volcano and a place that gives to its visitors amazing views and a big range of attractions and beautiful nature. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy hotel facilities including the hot Springs, pools and beautiful gardens and relax.
Overnight in Arenal.
Day 6
:
Arenal (1-3Km Hike - 2Hrs)
Location: Arenal
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Arenal Paraiso Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast included at the hotel. Morning at leisure. Today enjoy the most extraordinary view of the Arenal Volcano on a hike along the base and flanks of this giant on the Arenal 1968 park (approximately 2 hours of walking, medium difficulty. It varies and depends on the trails that are hiked, it could be 1 to 3 kilometres). ). During the hike, the expert guide will explain to you all about the volcano: its activity periods, a little bit of history related to it and will show you some landmarks that have left over the years. Astonishing views, ear-catching information, unbelievable stories and the chance to meet the local wildlife, will remain your favourite memories of Costa Rica after this experience. Afterwards, you will visit the hot springs of the Baldi Spa, to relax and enjoy one of the best hot springs in the area, where you can experience the rejuvenating effects of the waters as well as the lush vegetation that make this place an unforgettable place. Then enjoy a splendid dinner on the hot springs (included).
Overnight in Arenal.
Day 7
:
Arenal – Departure San Jose (120Km – 3Hrs)
Location: San José
Meals Included: Breakfast
At the appropriate time, departure private transfer from your hotel to Juan Santamaria International Airport to take your flight back home.
What's Included
TOUR GUIDE:
Operated with English- and Spanish-speaking local guides during the scheduled activities (Day 2, 3, 6). Please note you will be accompanied by local guides for the activities only. There is no guarantee that you will be part of a group, or part of the same group during the tour.
ACCOMMODATION:
6 night’s accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 San Jose
Standard Hotel Category = Wyndham Herradura or similar 3*
Day 2, 3 Tortuguero
Standard Category = Turtle Beach Lodge or similar (Lodge Standard)
Day 4 Sarapiqui
Standard Category = Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge or similar (Lodge Standard)
Day 5, 6 Arenal
Standard Hotel Category = Arenal Paraiso Resort or similar 3*
MEALS:
6 Breakfasts
3 Lunches (Day 2-4)
3 Dinners (Day 2, 3, 6)
TRANSPORT:
Arrival shared transfer from Juan Santamaria International Airport (Day 1)
Shared transportation between SJO-Tortuguero and Tortuguero- Sarapiqui including land and boat ride to Tortuguero Day 2 & Day 4
Private transfer between Sarapiqui and Arenal on Day 5
Departure private transfer to Juan Santamaria International Airport (Day 7)
ENTRANCE FEES & ACTIVITIES:
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Tortuguero Canals boat guided tour (Day 2); Hiking tour and Tortuguero village visit (Day 3); Arenal Volcano trail 1968 hike; Baldi Spa hot springs (Day 6)
OTHER:
Meet & Greet
Hotel taxes
What's Not Included
Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included.
Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
Drinks
Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
Optional Tours
Optional tours, if any, are not included.
Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
are not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Costa Rica. Sun protection, sunglasses, bathing suit, hiking or tennis shoes, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
It is advisable to arrive no later than 20:00 in San Jose since pick-up day 2 is early in the morning around 05:30
Due to the scheduled private transfer to the airport, a set time for departure is not recommended. The transfer will be adjusted to the time of the flight. Otherwise recommended not to leave before noon
We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
Children can be added to the booking when sharing a room with at least 2 adults, if not they must be added to the booking with the adult rate. Maximum 2 children per room
Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
In many hotels in Costa Rica, the triple rooms are double rooms with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Please note a single room is available to book upon request.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 San Jose
Standard Hotel Category = Wyndham Herradura or similar 3*
Day 2, 3 Tortuguero
Standard Hotel Category = Pachira Lodge or similar 3*
Day 4 Sarapiqui
Standard Hotel Category = Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge or similar 3*
Day 5, 6 Arenal
Standard Hotel Category = Arenal Paraiso Resort or similar 3*
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with shared and private transfers, including a boat ride to Tortuguero, and private transfers between Sarapiqui and Arenal, as well as to and from Juan Santamaria International Airport.
Accommodation
Enjoy 6 nights of comfortable accommodation in Costa Rica, staying at the Wyndham Herradura in San Jose, Pachira Lodge in Tortuguero, Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge in Sarapiqui, and Arenal Paraiso Resort in Arenal, all rated 3 stars.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 San Jose
Standard Hotel Category = Wyndham Herradura or similar 3*
Day 2, 3 Tortuguero
Standard Category = Turtle Beach Lodge or similar (Lodge Standard)
Day 4 Sarapiqui
Standard Hotel Category = Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge or similar (Lodge Standard)
Day 5, 6 Arenal
Standard Hotel Category = Arenal Paraiso Resort or similar 3*
Check out our Q&As
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Tortuguero?
Tortuguero is home to abundant wildlife, including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals.
Will there be a guide during the activities?
Yes, the tour is operated with English- and Spanish-speaking local guides during the scheduled activities on Day 2, 3, and 6. However, you will be accompanied by local guides for the activities only, and there is no guarantee that you will be part of a group or the same group during the tour.
What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches (Day 2-4), and 3 dinners (Day 2, 3, 6).
What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes shared and private transfers, including a boat ride to Tortuguero, and private transfers between Sarapiqui and Arenal, as well as to and from Juan Santamaria International Airport.
What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?
You will enjoy 6 nights of comfortable accommodation in Costa Rica, staying at the Wyndham Herradura in San Jose, Pachira Lodge in Tortuguero, Sarapiqui Rainforest Lodge in Sarapiqui, and Arenal Paraiso Resort in Arenal, all rated 3 stars.
Are entrance fees and activities included in the tour?
Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included. This includes the Tortuguero Canals boat guided tour (Day 2), hiking tour and Tortuguero village visit (Day 3), Arenal Volcano trail 1968 hike, and Baldi Spa hot springs (Day 6).
What should I pack for the trip?
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended. Sun protection, sunglasses, a bathing suit, hiking or tennis shoes, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Is there any specific time I should arrive in San Jose?
It is advisable to arrive no later than 20:00 in San Jose since pick-up on Day 2 is early in the morning around 05:30.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, children can be added to the booking when sharing a room with at least 2 adults. If not, they must be added to the booking with the adult rate. A maximum of 2 children per room is allowed.
Are there any restrictions on the type of rooms available?
In many hotels in Costa Rica, the triple rooms are double rooms with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room. Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed.
Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Reviews of this operator
Brian
Exotic Costa Rica
12-Feb-2022
We were delayed a couple of times in getting to Costa Rica and our tour operator, Roy, was extremely accommodating of the changes. The trip was partially guided, so though lodging and transportation were covered there were a few days where I could have used help coordinating afternoon activities.
Peter Herbert
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste
11-May-2022
A little aprehensive on 1st day with no tour leader... but ran better that clockwork, a few natural obstacles overcome. Good hotels, transport , drivers AND OUTSTANDING GUIDES.....A THEN THERE WAS THE WILDS OF COSTA RICA AND ITS PEOPLES ....
Jean Walsh
Exotic Costa Rica
17-Mar-2022
This trip was much anticipated and lived up to all of our expectations. We had a wonderful experience. If we had questions, Andres was immediately responsive. It was such a nice feeling to know we could reach him.
Susan Langton
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park
06-Jan-2022
Our trip was well organized, all of the service providers ( transfers, guides, accommodations) we friendly and professional, and each location was as promised. A bit more local information would have been useful in preparing for the trip, but nothing that wasn't able to be accommodated on the fly.
Marianne Brownell
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park
03-Oct-2022
Terrific experience!
Debra R
PURAVIDA CR
26-Jun-2023
Great staff taking care of us along the way! Hotel choices were unique and beautiful and accommodating.
Keith
Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste
08-Mar-2022
A good tour with 4 completely different ecosystems. A couple of long travel days.
Destination Services Costa Rica requires a minimum deposit of
20%
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services costa rica charges.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Not what you're looking for?
People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
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