Jungles & Beaches
Costa Rica: Jungles, Volcanoes & Beaches
Overview
Welcome to Costa Rica, a natural paradise in the heart of Central America! This small but amazingly diverse country is known for its rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, paradisiacal Caribbean and Pacific beaches, active volcanoes, tropical rainforests and a warm and welcoming culture. This itinerary pairs the Arenal Volcano region with the beaches and rainforest of Manuel Antonio.
Trip Highlights
- Poás Volcano, Café Doka coffee plantation and La Paz Waterfall Gardens
- Arenal Volcano hike, La Fortuna Waterfall and natural hot springs
- Guided walk through Manuel Antonio National Park
- Evening catamaran cruise with snorkeling along the Pacific coast
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in San José
Pure life! A warm welcome to this beautiful country, full of exuberant nature, paradisiacal beaches and friendly people. Upon arrival at San José airport, a representative will accompany you on your transfer to the hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2
Full-Day Poás Volcano, Café Doka and La Paz Waterfalls Tour
Breakfast at the hotel. A journey towards the Central Mountain Range to visit an authentic Costa Rican coffee plantation, learning about the production, harvesting, processing and roasting of coffee, before continuing to Poás Volcano. Ascending towards the volcano, notice the change in temperature and vegetation — coffee plantations, ferns, flowers and strawberry farms. At Poás, admire the impressive main crater with its sulfur fumaroles and learn about the park’s different ecosystems, before continuing to La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
Day 3
San José and Transfer to Arenal
Breakfast at the hotel. After enjoying the urban and cultural energy of San José, head to La Fortuna in the Arenal Volcano area — a scenic drive of approximately 3 to 3.5 hours through green valleys and typical Costa Rican villages.
Day 4
Full-Day Arenal Volcano Hike and La Fortuna Waterfall
Breakfast at the hotel. A guided tour of Arenal Volcano National Park, hiking trails through ancient lava flows and rainforest with views of the iconic volcano, learning about its volcanic history and biodiversity. Continue to La Fortuna Waterfall, a 70-metre cascade where you can descend more than 500 steps to cool off in the natural pool, followed by a typical Costa Rican lunch (a “casado”) and a relaxing soak in nearby hot springs.
Day 5
Arenal to Manuel Antonio
Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to the Central Pacific coast to Manuel Antonio, one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations for its white sandy beaches, tropical rainforest and abundant wildlife — approximately 3–4 hours through varied landscapes, with strategic stops for photos. The rest of the day is free to relax, enjoy the pool or take a first walk around the area.
Day 06
Full-Day Manuel Antonio Park, Evening Catamaran and Snorkeling
Breakfast at the hotel. A guided walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most famous parks for its biodiversity — an easy, scenic 2-mile trail observing monkeys, sloths, birds, reptiles, orchids and butterflies, with a stop at the beautiful Third Beach. In the afternoon, board a catamaran cruise along the Pacific coast, passing islands and nesting grounds, with snacks and beverages onboard and a stop for snorkeling where you may spot colorful tropical fish and dolphins.
Day 07
Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer from the hotel to San José Airport.
Hotels Included
- San JoséModerate: Barceló Hotel, Superior room · Deluxe: Crowne Plaza San José, Double std
- ArenalModerate: Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, Junior Suite · Deluxe: Mountain Paradise Spa, Villa room
- Manuel AntonioModerate: Alma Vida Hotel, Std double room · Deluxe: Costa Verde Hotel, Efficiency room
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Private transfer SJO Airport to hotel
- SIC transfers
- SIC tours
- Bilingual guide on each tour
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation at selected hotels with daily breakfast
- 6 x Breakfast
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Bank transfer or credit card fees
- Meals, beverages, tours, and transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry
- Tips and gratuities
- Visa
- Travel insurance
- City taxes
Important Notes
- Check-in 3:00–4:00 PM, check-out 11:00 AM; breakfast served 7:00–9:30 AM (may vary by hotel).
- Children aged 1–10 are considered children; guests over 10 are counted as adults.
- Rates are based on a minimum of 2 passengers travelling together and are subject to availability.
- Package validity: until December 31, 2026. Not available during Carnival, December holidays, or public holidays in South America.
- Payment terms: 25% deposit at booking, 50% due 60 days prior to travel, balance due 45 days prior.
- Cancellation: 25% fee at 60+ days; 50% at 59–45 days; 100% within 44 days or no-show.
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