Classic Costa Rica
Independent tour
SAN JOSE | TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK | ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK | MONTEVERDE | TAMARINDO
This unforgettable journey through Costa Rica blends volcanic landscapes, lush cloud forests, and vibrant coastal life. From the steaming crater of Poás and the wildlife-rich canals of Tortuguero to Arenal’s dramatic peaks and Monteverde’s misty trails. The adventure ends with sundrenched days in Tamarindo, offering a perfect balance of nature, culture, and relaxation.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11-12
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Day 13
Day 1 : UK - San José
Upon arrival in Costa Rica, meet your friendly guide who will transfer you to your hotel in San Jose. The journey, usually around half an hour depending on traffic, takes you through the scenic Central Valley, dotted with rolling coffee plantations and forested hills.
Hotel: Hotel Studio - 2 nights
Day 2 : Poás Volcano, La Paz & Doka Estate
Begin your day at Doka Coffee Estate with a hearty breakfast and an immersive tour of a working coffee plantation. Then continue to Poás Volcano, where you’ll explore the dramatic crater and cloud forest trails. Peer into the steaming caldera and explore nearby cloud forest trails rich with unique flora. The afternoon is spent at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where jungle paths lead to a series of dramatic waterfalls. Alongside the falls, the reserve is home to a butterfly house, hummingbird garden and aviaries, it’s a superb introduction to the country’s biodiversity. (B,L)
Day 3 : Tortuguero
Set off towards Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast. After a scenic drive, board a boat that winds its way through a network of canals before reaching Tortuguero, a remote and wildlife-rich national park. (B)
Hotel: Mawamba Lodge - 2 nights (FB)
Day 4 : Tortuguero
Glide along tranquil waterways, shaded by towering rainforest and alive with wildlife: monkeys swing through the branches, brightly coloured toucans fly overhead, and caimans bask at the water’s edge. You’ll also visit the small village of Tortuguero, whose Afro-Caribbean culture adds a distinctive flavour to the region. Between July and October, the area becomes the world’s most important nesting site for the green sea turtle, with evening excursions offering the chance to witness this extraordinary spectacle.
Day 5 : Arenal
Journey inland to Arenal, where verdant landscapes and dramatic volcanic scenery await. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and take in the striking views of Arenal Volcano as you prepare for the natural adventures ahead.
Hotel: Volcano Lodge - 2 nights (B,L)
Day 6 : Arenal Volcano & Hanging Bridges
Spend the morning exploring Arenal Volcano National Park on foot, following trails across old lava fields and through secondary forest. The park offers spectacular views of the volcano itself, as well as of Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest lake. In the afternoon, venture into the canopy on the Mistico Hanging Bridges, a series of suspended walkways strung high above the forest floor. (B) With a naturalist guide to help spot wildlife, you may see anything from colourful orchids and butterflies to shy tree-dwelling mammals and vibrant birdlife.
Day 7 : Arenal
Today is free to relax or explore further. (B)
Day 8 : Arenal to Monteverde
Today’s transfer is part of the adventure. First, cross Lake Arenal by boat, enjoying panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding hills. Then continue by road, climbing into the misty highlands of Monteverde. The 3-hour journey takes you through rural communities and farmland, with a noticeable change in climate as you ascend into cloud forest terrain.
Hotel: Trapp Family Lodge - 2 nights (B)
Day 9 : Monteverde Cloud Forest
Venture into a tranquil cloud forest reserve with your guide. The trails reveal a world of lush ferns, bromeliads and mossclad trees, thriving in the perpetual mist. Birdwatchers will be in their element here, with the chance to spot the resplendent quetzal, a species considered sacred by the ancient Maya. Reach La Ventana viewpoint, where the Continental Divide creates a dramatic contrast of ecosystems shaped by moisture-laden Caribbean winds and drier Pacific breezes. A haven for nature lovers. (B)
Day 10 : Tamarindo
Travel west to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast and the lively seaside town of Tamarindo. This is your chance to unwind after days of adventure.
Hotel: Tamarindo Diria - 3 nights (B)
Day 11-12 : Tamarindo
Spend long afternoons on golden beaches, swim in warm tropical waters, or try surfing on waves suitable for both beginners and the more experienced. As evening falls, Tamarindo comes alive with its colourful sunsets – perfect to enjoy with freshly grilled seafood at a beachfront restaurant. Should you wish, there are plenty of optional excursions: snorkelling in nearby bays, kayaking through coastal estuaries, or visiting nature reserves to spot howler monkeys and iguanas. (B)
Day 13 : Return to San José - UK
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your international flight. Depart Costa Rica with unforgettable memories of cloud forests, volcanoes, wildlife, and warm hospitality.
