Highlights of Costa Rica Escorted Tour Small Group Itinerary
Day 1 – Travel to San Jose – Costa Rica
On arrival in San Jose airport, we meet our guide and transfer to our hotel where we will spend the next night.
Day 2 – Discover Poas Volcano National Park & Coffee plantation
We explore the lush tropical countryside on our coach journey to Arenal. Our journey takes us through the picturesque Northern Highlands of Central Valley, passing through the captivating provence of Alajuela, the esteemed birthplace of Juan Santamaria. We make a stop to visit his monument and gain insights into his remarkable history.
Day 3 – Experience Costa Rica’s Biodiversity in Mistico Park
This morning we explore Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity at Mistico Park with an exhilarating walk across renowned hanging bridges. Join us in discovering the wonders of Mistico Park, where these bridges offer a unique perspective of the rainforest’s diverse layers- from treetops to the forest floor. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birds, mammals, butterflies, and more in this biodiverse corridor. This evening, we journey to some Hot Springs, where we indulge in a soothing soak in natural mineral waters, set in a lush tropical background. Unwind and absorb the rejuvenating benefits of the thermal waters.
Day 4 : Relax More in Arenal
Today, you have the freedom to explore your surroundings or simply unwind. Consider opting for an optional excursion to the Cano Nego Wildlife Reserve, renowned as one of Costa Rica’s prime spots for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Home to sloths, monkeys, caimans, bats, and a myriad of tropical plants, this reserve is dedicated to preserving wetlands and boasts diverse zoological groups. Glide silently on a boat, immersing yourself in the rich flora and fauna, and keep an eye out for the elusive sloths, playful monkeys, and stealthy bats expertly camouflaged in the trees. Join us this evening for a return transfer into La Fortuna. We have free time to explore and have dinner.
Day 5 – Transfer to Monteverde and Trapiche Tour
Embark on a scenic coach journey from Arenal to the elevated heights of Monteverde, nestled in the Tilaran Mountain Range at approximately 4300ft above sea level. Explore this unique and biodiverse haven, home to rare flora and fauna. If luck is on our side, we may catch sight of the elusive three-wattle bell bird and the legendary resplendent quetzal, renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful birds. Keep a keen eye out for sloths in the wilds of the cloud forest, ensuring an unforgettable and enchanting experience!
Day 6 – Monteverde Cloud Forest Walk
Today, we venture to the Monteverde Cloud Reserve at Curi-Cancha, a haven for bird watchers with more than 200 different species. This lush habitat is also inhabited by various other species, such as coatis, agutis, kinkajous, two-toed sloths, and monkeys, enhancing our nature-filled experience. Next, we enjoy a leisurely experience with the Sky Tram and Sky Walk at Sky Adventure. Take a scenic 15-minute ride above the tree canopy on an aerial gondola leading to a coffee shop, a walking trail, and an observation tower. The tram ride takes us to the highest mountain in Monteverde, offering views of the surrounding forest. After our thrilling ride we discover the Sky Walk trails and hanging bridges to further explore our surroundings giving us access to a completely different ecosystem that can only be discovered at the highest points of trees. The walk is a relaxed excursion on the trail is (2.5km) circuit with six hanging bridges, including the longest one in Costa Rica 236m long.
Day 7 – Transfer to Tamarindo, Northwest Pacific
The journey will take over 3.5 hours with comfort stops along the way. We arrive in the afternoon settle in and soak up the costal atmosphere.
Day 8 – Tamarindo – Soak up the Beach life
The next two days are yours to delve deeper into your surroundings, explore Tamarindo, or visit one of the nearby beaches. These days are yours to simply relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere.
Day 9 – Transfer By Coach to San Jose
We depart Tamarindo early in the morning and make our way back to where we started, San Jose. The journey will take approximately 6 hours with comfort stops along the way. Arrive in the evening and check into our hotel.
Day 10 – San Jose Return Home from Costa Rica