8 Day Costa Rica Tour

Caribbean Jungle & Cloud Forest
TOURCODE: CR1

Duration:
8 Days

Activity Level:
2

When To Go:
Feb, Nov

Countries Visited:
1

Arrive In / Depart From:
/

Max Group Size:
Never more than 18

Tour Style:
Cultural

Price From:

  Overnight in: San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde

Discover the country's true culture with the help of experienced local guides.

  • Small group sizes to help escape the beaten path.
  • All-inclusive with top-rated restaurants and hotels.
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Tour Overview
Tour Overview
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Countries Visited: 1 Activity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural

Get closer to nature with Costa Rica guided tours and never look at the natural world the same way again. It doesn't take long to come to understand the motivation behind the dedication to the conservation efforts in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is a nation in which a quarter of the country's total territory is protected within national parks and designated conservation areas. We head to one of the country's largest national parks in the initial stages of our Costa Rica adventures to witness the beauty, diversity and richness of a unique and striking natural environment.

We wander through verdant, mist-shrouded forests, spend time relaxing on paradisiacal gold-sand beaches, or in bubbling hot springs with the majestic Arenal volcano as a backdrop, cast off for a boat trip through untouched wilds along the canals of Tortuguero Park and become entranced by the magic of a glorious country whose nature comes second to none.

 


 

Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices

 

Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.

 

Select a date below to reserve your spot:

 

Optional Single Supplement: $650 USD (number of singles limited).

 


 

Full Itinerary
Full Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrival in San Jose
Today we arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica.

San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, is on a plateau in the Central Valley at 1200 m (3,700 ft), ringed by lush green mountains and valleys. The population of this city is probably half of the whole country! The main downtown area is a bustling collection of well-laid-out streets filled with bustling traffic and lined with eclectic, historic architecture. On the surface, it is a gritty downtown area, but you'll also find friendly people, quirky spots, and the historic side of San Jose which might just change your initial impression.

Overnight in San Jose.

Included Meal(s): Dinner



Day 2 San Jose - Boat to Tortuguero
This morning we travel by bus from San Jose through Braulio Carillo National Park, one of Costa Rica's largest. If season/harvest time permits, we will visit a working banana plantation and then pass through a region known for its cocoa production. We then board our riverboat* and spend the afternoon journeying through myriad interconnecting rivers and canals that take us finally to the Caribbean coast and Tortuguero Park.

The park is a water thoroughfare which is a 160 km (100 mile) stretch of natural rivers, lagoons and estuaries, and connecting man-made waterways that run almost to the Nicaraguan border. The canal is the main "highway" of the northern coastal region, complete with directional signs and branches from the main trunk route.

As we go along the canal, keep a keen lookout for views of pastel-coloured toucans and monkeys of various type; if we're lucky, a lazy sloth hanging from a branch, and maybe a coati or two roaming the forest. Stands of mangroves and water hyacinth appear here and there. Scattered along the way are people, too -- fishers and farmers whose dugouts serve all the purposes of pickup trucks elsewhere. Mostly the banks remain wild, and the calls of monkeys and whistles of birds predominate over the noises of humans.

* We strongly recommend that travellers bring a smaller bag to take to Tortuguero due to limited sapce on the boat and the lack of personnel to help you with baggage. Your luggage will be securely stored until we are reunited with it upon departure from Tortuguero.

Overnight in Tortuguero.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner



Day 3 Tortuguero: Forest Walk & Village
Tortuguero Park is a fascinating place to explore. An early morning boat ride offers an opportunity to observe an awakening coastal rain forest full of lush vegetation and unique bird life.

After lunch we visit the village of Tortuguero accessible only by river boat; you may choose to walk on the Caribbean beach where several turtle species lay their eggs each year. We will visit the Tortuguero Museum with its excellent displays pertaining to the ecology of the area and an informative video presentation specific to turtle conservation in Tortuguero and the entire Caribbean region (the Green Sea and Hawksbill turtles' nesting season runs from July to October with the peak in August, and the Leatherback turtles nest from February to April. It is possible to see individual turtles at any time of the year).

NOTE: The exact order of our activities in Tortuguero may vary depending on weather and other variables.

Overnight in Tortuguero.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner



Day 4 Tortuguero - Baldi Hotsprings - Arenal/La Fortuna Area
After an early breakfast we travel by boat 1½-hour to reunite with our land transport and then continue by road to the La Fortuna/Arenal area.

We travel through rolling hills covered with sugar cane fields to overnight near Arenal Volcano. We make a stop at the Baldi Hotsprings (located near Arenal and outside the Risk Zones established by the National Prevention of Risks and Emergency Commission). Here a geothermally-heated river flows through beautifully landscaped grounds featuring many plant and tree species and great birdlife. We will have time to relax in or around the various pools (bring a towel). The springs feature several hot pools with different temperatures fed by individual springs and three swim-up bars.

This evening (weather & volcanic activity permitting) we can view the volcano.

Overnight at Arenal/La Fortuna.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 5 Arenal - Monteverde Cloud Forest
Today we travel through a rustic rural countryside to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve area (+/- 4 hours).

Covered in a mantle of moss, ferns and orchids, this private reserve is home to over 400 species of birds and a great number of animals. The forest is created by the winds, particular temperature and moisture conditions, and mountainous topography which combine during the dry season to hold a steady cloud cover along the continental divide. The rains and the moisture in the air nourish trees and plants rooted in the ground, as well as many plants that live at the upper levels of the forest, and take their nutrients directly from the mist and dust that pass through the air. The result is an enchanted fairy-tale environment where trees are laden with orchids, bromeliads, mosses and ferns that obscure their branches, where the moisture and mild temperatures and sunlight filtered by the forest canopy encourage the exuberance of begonias, heliconias, philodendron and many other tropical plants in every available space on the ground.

This afternoon we have a guided tour of the "Butterfly Garden" where butterflies and other endemic insects are raised and protected in a controlled environment allowing scientists to study them -- their place in the food chain and their response to things like increased pollution and climate change.

Overnight in Monteverde.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 6 Monteverde Cloud Forest
We have a full morning exploring the cloud forest reserve with the help of a local naturalist guide. There is more to the forest than the trees and lesser plants. Of over 320 bird species, the most notable is the quetzal with its long arc of tail feathers. Assorted trogons in addition to the quetzal inhabit the reserve, along with more than 50 varieties of hummingbird. About 500 kinds of butterfly are found at Monteverde. Among the more than 100 mammalian species are howler, white-faced and spider monkeys, coatis and their cousins, raccoons; as well as the rarely observed pumas, ocelots, jaguars, tapirs, and kinkajous.

This afternoon you may choose to go on an optional "Canopy Walk" excursion, located within the cloud forest. Suspension foot-bridges are strung across deep gorges allowing one to get a bird's eye view of the forest from a totally different perspective than we experienced this morning. At a leisurely pace, one can complete this easy and fascinating walk in about 90 minutes. Your Tour Leader can help you plan this activity (your Tour Leader will advise re the current price while on tour).

REMEMBER: This can be a wet and windy place by definition; you should be prepared for varied conditions.

Overnight at Monteverde.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 7 Monteverde - San Jose
Today we return by road to San Jose.*

Time-permitting, we recommend a visit to the Gold Museum in downtown San Jose (optional), easily the country's best with thousands of different examples of Pre-Columbian gold artifacts (the museum closes at 16:30).

* Today's road transfer to San Jose will not be accompanied by your tour leader, who will be continuing with travellers who have chosen a longer tour option. Your evening meal and departure will be managed by a local guide in San Jose. If you'd like to consider an upgrade to the longer version, which also includes Nicaragua, please refer to tours CR2 and PA3 on our website.

Overnight in San Jose.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 8 Depart
Departure from San Jose.

BUEN VIAJE!

Included Meal(s): Breakfast

 


 

Trip Info
Trip Info

Inclusions
Breakfast and dinner daily (hotels and local restaurants).

All transport, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary.

Gratuities for local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, hotel porters (if available).

Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book both their air AND their extra hotel nights through us.

This tour can be EXTENDED to include beautiful Granada, Nicaragua and a stunning cruise on Lago Nicaragua - please refer to tour code CR2

Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour.

Tour Leader gratuity, lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), departure taxes, and international air taxes (if applicable).

Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance.

Seasonality and Weather
This tour is offered throughout the year. In the Central Valley, where the main centres of population are located, the average temperature is 22C (72F). In the coastal areas the temperature is much hotter and humid. The "green" season runs May-November; the warm drier season is Dec-May, though temperature differences between summer and winter are slight.

Transport and Travel Conditions
Road transport by private air-conditioned motor coach, 12-30 seats depending on ultimate group size (see 'group size'). Costa Rica's roads are generally good though we do have some long-ish (though scenic) road journeys with plenty of stops for refreshment en route.

As this is primarily nature-focused experience, most of our activities will occur outdoors and involve walks on uneven/rocky surfaces at a leisurely pace. You should be prepared with the right footwear and be capable of being on your feet for several hours in order to fully enjoy what this destination has to offer.

Our difficulty level "2" rating refers to the above-mentioned busy days, walking tours on uneven terrain, lack of handrails (public and elsewhere, ie shower stalls), and fatigue that can be caused by heat and humidity in coastal locations.

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.

Accommodation
Well-located, heated/air-conditioned, mid-range (3 star) hotels with en suite toilet and bathroom throughout. Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than doubles.

Hotel porter service is sometimes available (see 'inclusions') though you should be independent with your luggage. Some hotels have outdoor swimming pools.

Please click on the "Map & Hotels" link for more information.

Staff and Support
Tour Leader, driver/s, and local step-on guides at various locations.

Group Size
Maximum 18 (plus Tour Leader)

Tour Extensions
This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:

14 Day Costa Rica & Nicaragua Tour
FEB NOV
TOUR CODE: CR2
Tour Overview
18 Day Panama & Costa Rica Tour
FEB NOV
TOUR CODE: PA2
Tour Overview
Panama, Costa Rica & Nicaragua
FEB NOV
TOUR CODE: PA3
Tour Overview

 


 

Map & Hotels
Map & Hotels

Regions visited: Central America
Countries visited: Costa Rica


*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.


The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.


Sleep Inn
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: San Jose
Country: Costa Rica
The Sleep Inn® Paseo Las Damas hotel is in an excellent location in downtown San José, just 20 minutes from the Juan Santamaría International Airport, making our hotel a special place to ... and end your vacation in Costa Rica.
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Pachira Lodge
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Tortuguero
Country: Costa Rica
Strategically located in front of the main lagoon, just 5 minutes by boat from the National Tortuguero Park and 3 minutes from the picturesque town by the same name. 14 hectares (34 ... of full of exotic flora and fauna. 94 comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, hot water and ceiling fans. Available with one King or two double full size beds.
Read More
Baldi Hotsprings Resort
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Arenal
Country: Costa Rica
Honeymooners and everybody who wants to enjoy a peaceful getaway. Rest and relaxation in this heavenly setting at the base of the volcano. 25 Thermal Water Pools Amidst the tropical rainforest, these ... thermal water pools are filled by crystalline waterfalls, for the use and enjoyment of al visitors. The purity of the water will make you feel like you are floating in a oasis of healing, with birds singing all around and the sound of falling water that invites you to relax and recover your wellness and quality of life.
Read More

 


 

Gallery

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
01. What is the maximum number of participants on a trip?
Most of our tours carry a maximum of 18 participants; some tours (ie hiking tours) top out at 16. In the event that we do not achieve our minimum complement by our 60-day deadline, we may offer group members the option of paying a "small-group surcharge" as an alternative to cancellation. If all group members agree, we will confirm the trip at existing numbers; this surcharge is refundable in the event that we ultimately achieve our regular minimum. If the small group surcharge is not accepted, we will offer a refund of your deposit or a different trip of your choice.
02. Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end? What about stopovers?
Yes, you can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end and we can book accommodation in our tour hotel. Stopovers are often permitted, depending on air routing. Stopovers usually carry a "stopover" fee levied by the airline.
03. How do I make a reservation? How and when do I pay?
The easiest way to make a reservation is via our website; during office hours, you are also more than welcome to contact us by telephone. A non-refundable deposit is payable at the time of booking; if a reservation is made within 60 days, full payment is required. Some trips require a larger deposit. If international airline bookings require a non-refundable payment in order to secure space or the lowest available fare, we will require an increase in deposit equal to the cost of the ticket(s). Early enrolment is always encouraged as group size is limited and some trips require greater preparation time. Once we have received your deposit, we will confirm your space and send you a confirmation package containing your trip itinerary, any visa/travel permit related documents, invoice, clothing and equipment recommendations, general information on your destination(s), and forms for you to complete, sign and return to us. Your air e-tickets (if applicable), final hotel list, final trip itinerary, and instructions on how to join your tour, will be sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
04. What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?
Please review our cancellation policy page for details.
05. I am a single who prefers my own room. What is a single supplement?
All of our tours have a single supplement for those who want to be guaranteed their own room at each location. This supplement is a reflection of the fact that most hotels around the world do not discount the regular twin-share rate for a room by 50% for only one person occupying a room. Most hotels will give a break on the price, but usually in the range of 25-30% of the twin-share rate. This difference, multiplied by each night, amounts to the single supplement. The conventional amount can also vary from country to country and some destinations are more expensive than others for single occupancy. In order to be "single friendly," the supplements we apply are not a profit centre for us and we do our best to keep them as reasonable as possible. On most tours we limit the number of singles available, not to be punitive, but rather because many hotels allow for only a limited number of singles; some smaller hotels at remote locations also have a limited number of single rooms available. Please note that most single rooms around the world are smaller than twin-share rooms and will likely have only one bed.
06. Do you have a shared accommodation program?
Yes! If you are single traveller and are willing to share, we will do our best to pair you with a same-gender roommate. On most of our tours, if we fail to pair you, we will absorb the single supplement fee and you will default to a single room at no extra charge. At some destinations, however, where single rooms are not significantly discounted, or not at all, we may apply a "mandatory" single in the event that we cannot find you a share partner. This is usually 50% of the usual supplement, but can be as much as 100%. If applicable, this proviso will be noted on each tour page on this website, on your invoice, and in our tour date/price book (available for download under "Resources").

 

What People are Saying
John B.
New Minas, NS - CA
Really enjoyed the times in Tortuguero and Monteverde. Stops along the way to see wildlife, eg. sloths, and farms (eg. bananas), made things memorable. The local guides in Tortuguero National Park, the Butterfly Park, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Park were all amazing! I expected a smaller bus, however, the big bus with lots of room gave everyone a window seat. Loved all the local food and menus. The fresh fruit was a treat. Wonderful trip of a bucket list destination.
Ernest G.
Surrey, BC - CA
All the activities were great. Jam packed days. Loved it. Laura, our tour leader, was very organized and considerate. This was a great group, everyone prompt and friendly. Laura did lists for all of us of all the animals and birds that we saw in the rainforest. Does she ever sleep? All in all, great trip!
Errol H
Calgary, AB - CA
He [Andres Fernandez] really is one of the best tour leaders we have had!
Irene L.
Parksville, BC - CA
I enjoyed the stay and the walk in the Rincon de la Vieja Park and the visit to the hot springs spa.
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Countries Visited: 1

Costa Rica.
Activity Level: 2

These are particularly busy tours that feature a lot of moving around, sometimes by train and short journeys on local transport. Walking tours of towns and cities are leisurely but you should be prepared to be on your feet for several hours. Some of our cultural trips that occur at high altitude and/or require greater independence with baggage handling (at hotels, airports, train stations) also fall into this category.
Tour Style: Cultural

These three- and four-star hotel-based, "soft adventure" trips concentrate on the culture, history, and natural attributes of our destination. Though there are no strenuous activities built into these tours, you need to be prepared for some full days with some early starts, plenty of walking on uneven surfaces through villages, cities and archaeological sites, and not a lot of "down time." Independence, reasonable fitness, and an ability to be steady on one's feet are critical in order for you to get the most out of these programs.
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