Costa Rica: Rio Celeste & Rincon de la Vieja
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Costa Rica with the "Rio Celeste & Rincon de la Vieja" tour. Begin your journey in San José, traveling to the mesmerizing sky-blue waters of Rio Celeste in Parque Nacional Volcan Tenorio. Experience the vibrant wildlife and volcanic landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park with guided hikes and a thrilling night walk. Enjoy free time to explore or partake in activities like ziplining and spa treatments. Conclude your trip on the stunning beaches of Playa Flamingo, where you can relax or opt for a catamaran excursion. With private transport and comfortable hotel accommodations, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: San José to Rincón de la Vieja
Location: San José, Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio, Rincón de la Vieja
Accommodation Name: lodge
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
After an early arrival and departure from San Jose, the group will travel to the famed ethereal blue waters of Rio Celeste. Set off on a CEO-led walk through the area with views of the river along the route before an included lunch. Continue onwards to the Rincon de la Vieja area where you will enjoy a welcome meeting and have dinner at the lodge restaurant, before a night walk on the nearby trails. ...more ...less
Additional Information: Please note that pre-nights are highly recommended to ensure your timely arrival for a 7:30am departure from the airport in San José.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and scan the scenery from a private vehicle between San José and Parque Nacional Volcan Tenorio, where Rio Celeste is located.
ACTIVITY: North of Lake Arenal lies another spectacular protected area called Volcán Tenorio National Park. We'll set off on foot from the main entrance and hike along jungle trails and down a series of stairways to the brilliantly blue Rio Celeste Waterfall. Take in the scenery and watch for wildlife like monkeys and birds in the canopy above before hiking out on the same trail.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private vehicle from the area where Rio Celeste is to the lodge in the Rincon de la Vieja area.
ACTIVITY: EVENING Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a walk on the trails of the lodge's property. Experience the richness of the tropical rainforest's nocturnal noises and wildlife. Walk along as your CEO points out flora and fauna, and you search for mother nature's nightly secrets. Listen to birds still singing and insects buzzing. Surrounded by the thick darkness of trees towering above you, this will be an entirely different experience than the daylight hours.
Day 2: Rincón de la Vieja National Park Area
Location: Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before transferring to Rincón de la Vieja National Park where you will embark on a hike in the area to gain a full sense of the tropical and volcanic landscape, while searching for resident wildlife. Travel back to the hotel in the afternoon for free time on the property. Activity options range from ziplining, hiking in the area, and various cultural experiences.
ACTIVITY: Set off on a 3.2km (2 mile) hike on the Las Pailas trail that cuts through tropical rainforest and weaves through various volcanic activity. The trail begins in an open area with few trees, where you will hear about the legend of the nearby volcano. Be on the lookout for volcanic bubbling mud, small craters, and see if you can smell sulfuric fumes. The rest of the trail is surrounded by dense vegetation and will provide possible opportunities to see wildlife.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: Between 2-3hrs
Distance: 3.5km (2.5 miles) total. It is a loop trail.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Take advantage of a free afternoon back at the lodge to partake in outdoor activities. Opt to zipline or hike on the trails round the property. It's the perfect way to gain a real sense of this volcanic and tropical rainforest area.
Day 3: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park Area
Location: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Accommodation Name: lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a full free day in the Rincon de la Vieja area with an abundance of optional activities to choose from. Between hiking, bird watching, or spa treatments and a soak in the hot springs, your day can be as leisurely or busy as you’d like.
Additional Information: Choose to pre-book the Jungle Waterslide for a fun adventure through the jungle.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY The area is an outdoor lover's paradise! Enjoy access to the lodge's amenities. Opt to swim in the pool, walk along the nearby trails, or partake in other activities on offer like, learning about the growing and artisanal process of sugarcane, or attending a Chorotega workshop, a ceramics unique to Central America—and representative of the region's Indigenous history. Other possibilities are, hiking to the nearby Salitral Waterfall, trying the onsite waterslide through the jungle, or focus on wellness with optional spa and thermal bath experiences. You have all day!
Day 4: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park Area to Playa Flamingo
Location: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Flamingo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast at the lodge the group will travel to Playa Flamingo on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast. Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk upon arrival to get to know this uniquely set up town, whose central area has remained a pristine beach protected by a large mangrove forest. Then, spend a free evening exploring on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk through the small beach town of Playa Flamingo. This popular local destination boasts fine white sand, clear blue waters, lagoons, and a variety of more secluded beaches with rocks reaching into the sea. Become acquainted with the layout as you walk through main area.
FREE TIME: EVENING Spend a free late afternoon and evening in Playa Flamingo. Go to the beach, visit some of the local shops, or find a nearby restaurant to try out for dinner.
Day 5: Playa Flamingo
Location: Playa Flamingo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Spend a full free day in paradise. Opt to prebook a Catamaran excursion to get out onto the water for a whole new view of the Playa Flamingo area. Or choose to enjoy the beach on your own with swimming and sunbathing.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY The whole day is yours in Playa Flamingo. Choose to spend it out on the water by pre-booking a catamaran experience, or choose to lie on a fluffy white-sand beach with mangroves gently rustling in the distance. From beach town vibes to secluded lagoons this place is a true taste of Costa Rica's northwestern coastline.
Day 6: Playa Flamingo
Location: Playa Flamingo
Depart at any time.
Please note that while your tour ends in Playa Flamingo, there are taxis/shuttle services available to the Liberia airport. These services depart from the town of Potrero which is 10 minutes from your Finish Point Hotel. It takes one hour to get to the airport in Liberia from Potrero.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (5 nts). -
Welcome Moment
Your Welcome Moment includes a Welcome Meeting where you meet your CEO and group.
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Rio Celeste Visit
The tour includes a visit and short hike at Rio Celeste.
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Night Walk
Participate in a night walk on the trails near the lodge in Rincon de la Vieja.
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Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Entrance and guided hike in Rincon de la Vieja National Park are included.
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Orientation Walk in Playa Flamingo
An orientation walk in Playa Flamingo is part of the tour.
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Free Time
Enjoy free time in the rainforest area and Playa Flamingo.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
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Group Size
The maximum group size is 16.
What's Not Included
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Meals
Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options.
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Solo Traveller Supplement
Solo travellers joining group trips are paired in shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement.
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Departure Ticket Requirement
Costa Rica requires proof of a departure ticket to enter the country.
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Rain and Temperature Preparedness
Be prepared for rain and lower temperatures during the winter season in Costa Rica's central valley.
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Luggage Handling
Properties with only two stories may not have elevators, requiring luggage to be carried up stairs.
Transport
Private vehicle, walking.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 5 nights, providing a relaxing retreat after your daily adventures in Costa Rica.
Meals Included
3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
Group Size
Max 16
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with private vehicles and enjoy scenic walks, ensuring a seamless journey between destinations and activities.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1. Costa Rica will not be allowing anyone to enter the country without proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.). If you are travelling through a few countries in Central America, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination. Please print the itinerary and voucher and bring it with you.
2. Be prepared for rain and lower temperatures during the winter season (June-November), especially in Costa Rica's central valley.
3. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying and handling your own luggage. ...more ...less
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife might I see during the tour?
During the tour, you might see wildlife such as monkeys and birds in the canopy above while hiking near Rio Celeste. In Rincon de la Vieja National Park, you may encounter various resident wildlife while exploring the tropical and volcanic landscape.
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What activities are available during the free time in Rincon de la Vieja?
During your free time in Rincon de la Vieja, you can choose from activities such as ziplining, hiking, bird watching, spa treatments, soaking in hot springs, learning about sugarcane processing, attending a Chorotega ceramics workshop, or trying the onsite waterslide through the jungle. ...more ...less
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What is included in the night walk activity?
The night walk activity includes a guided walk on the trails near the lodge in Rincon de la Vieja. You will experience the richness of the tropical rainforest's nocturnal noises and wildlife, with opportunities to listen to birds and insects and search for nocturnal flora and fauna. ...more ...less
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What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 16 people.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation during the tour includes hotels for 5 nights.
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What transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation during the tour includes private vehicles and walking.
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What should I know about the departure from San José?
It is recommended to arrive in San José early, as the tour departs at 7:30 am from the airport. Pre-nights are highly recommended to ensure timely arrival for the departure.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Costa Rica: Rio Celeste & Rincon de la Vieja
6 Days Starting in San José, Costa Rica and ending in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica
Visiting: San José, Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio, Rincón de la Vieja, Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Flamingo ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26184
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
