Volcanoes, Rainforest & Beach Escape

DAY 1: ARRIVAL TO COSTA RICA
Reception at the airport and transfer to the hotel in San José. Accommodation.

DAY 2: SAN JOSE – LA TIGRA (NORTHERN REGION)
‍Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, head toward La Tigra Rainforest Lodge in the northern region. Upon arrival, explore the private reserve trails, swim in natural pools, and visit the on-site permaculture garden. In the evening, enjoy an included guided night walk in the rainforest. Dinner included. Accommodation.

La Tigra is a nature sanctuary dedicated to conservation and environmental education. Through immersive experiences, guests are invited to become part of a growing movement of nature protectors.

DAY 3: LA TIGRA – TREE PLANTING • Late departure to Arenal
Breakfast at the hotel. Start the day with a guided walk and tree planting activity in the La Tigra Biological Reserve. This is a hands-on way to contribute to local reforestation and sustainability efforts.

The Tree Plantation Tour near La Fortuna offers more than just a chance to explore the breathtaking beauty of the rainforest – it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Step into the heart of Reserva Bosque La Tigra and discover firsthand the importance of reforestation in Costa Rica’s ecosystem. As you journey through the verdant landscape, our guides will introduce you to the diverse flora and fauna that call this sanctuary home. Learn about the vital role that trees play in mitigating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and supporting local communities.

After lunch at the lodge, continue your journey to La Fortuna, home of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Accommodation.

‍DAY 4: ARENAL VOLCANO – SELF-GUIDED VISIT
Breakfast at the hotel. Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Arenal Volcano National Park with self-guided access included. Explore lush trails through tropical forest and old lava fields with stunning views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.

Other optional activities: Tenorio Volcano & Río Celeste, Caño Negro wetlands (for birdwatching and wildlife boat tours), canopy tours, hanging bridges, aerial tram with panoramic views of Arenal Volcano and Lake, La Fortuna Waterfall (guided or self-guided), kayaking on Lake Arenal, rafting on the Balsa or Sarapiquí Rivers, canyoning, hot springs, and sustainable experiences like chocolate, sugar cane, and coffee tours. You can also visit La Marina Wildlife Rescue Center, Ecocentro Danaus Biological Reserve, or take a sunset nature walk at Mistico Park. Accommodation.

DAY 5:  ARENAL – BOCA TAPADA
Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, travel to Boca Tapada, a lesser-known paradise just 2.5 hours from Arenal. Overnight stay at Laguna del Lagarto Lodge, a lodge nestled in the rainforest surrounded by 500 hectares of protected land.

Expect to see monkeys, crocodiles, red-eyed frogs, coatis, and over 350 species of birds—an ideal setting for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Explore the forest by foot, horseback, or boat. Accommodation.

DAY 6: BOCA TAPADA – SAN CARLOS RIVER BOAT TOUR
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a morning boat tour with local guide Jose Luis along the San Carlos River. Spot crocodiles, basilisks, turtles, and aquatic birds as you cruise toward the Nicaraguan border. Stop to visit Boca San Carlos, a remote river village where you can see the majestic San Juan River and glimpse Nicaragua’s Indio Maíz Reserve. Duration: approx. 3 hours. Accommodation.  

‍DAY 7: BOCA TAPADA – RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA
Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, continue west toward the volcanic landscapes of Rincón de la Vieja National Park. This unique destination blends dry and cloudy forests with geothermal activity. Visit bubbling mud pools, steam vents, and scenic waterfalls such as La Cangreja. Accommodation.

‍DAY 8 : PRINCÓN DE LA VIEJA
Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park on your own (entrance included). Note: the park is closed on Mondays.

Self-guided visit: Rincón de la Vieja is a volcanic wonderland where tropical forest meets geothermal energy. Walk among fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and waterfalls while discovering the region's biodiversity. Accommodation.

DAYS 9 & 10: RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA – PLAYA SÁMARA (PACIFIC COAST)
Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Playa Samara, a peaceful white-sand beach on Guanacaste. It is ideal for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing beneath the palm trees. Accommodation.

DAY 11: GUANACASTE – INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
‍Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Juan Santamaria International Airport. Return your rental car and check in for your international flight. ¡Pura Vida!