Volcanoes, Beaches, and Wildlife: A Costa Rican Odyssey

Upon your arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport, your Costa Rican adventure begins seamlessly. After disembarking, follow the signs to the immigration area where you’ll have your passport checked and stamped. Once through, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage, with complimentary carts available to assist you. After gathering your bags, pass through customs, placing your luggage on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening and handing over your completed customs form. Once cleared, you’ll exit the terminal, where it’s best to avoid taxi solicitations and instead look for your Green Planet Expeditions driver, who will be waiting to ensure a smooth transfer to your destination. Settle into your luxury accommodation in San José, where you can relax and unwind after your journey, enjoying a restful night before the next day’s adventures. Overnight at Grano de Oro

After breakfast Your adventure begins as a private driver picks you up at Grano de Oro and transfers you to the local airport for a short scenic flight from San Jose to Tortuguero- The Amazon of Costa Rica offering stunning aerial views of Costa Rica’s lush landscapes. Upon landing, a lodge representative will greet you and take you on a scenic boat ride through the canals of Tortuguero National Park, surrounded by a lush jungle teeming with wildlife. Upon arrival, check into Tortuga Lodge & Gardens, where you’ll enjoy a gourmet lunch before heading on a guided tour of Tortuguero Village. Visit the local school (during the school year), the Sea Turtle Conservancy center, artisan shops, and Afro-Caribbean neighborhoods, learning about the community’s transformation from turtle hunting to conservation. Overnight at Tortuga Lodge & Gardens.

Start with an early breakfast at the lodge, then join a three-hour boat tour through Tortuguero National Park with a local naturalist guide. Explore remote creeks and lagoons, observing Howler monkeys, Northern Jacana waterfowl, caimans, and otters. Each tour provides a unique glimpse into the rainforest’s morning activities. In the evening, experience a two-hour guided walk in Tortuga Lodge’s private nature reserve. Equip yourself with rubber boots, a rain poncho, and a flashlight. Dress in long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and apply insect repellent. Venture into the coastal rainforest to observe nocturnal species and the unique Strawberry Poison Dart Frog. Return to the lodge by 7 p.m. for a delightful dinner. Overnight at Tortuga Lodge & Gardens.

After breakfast, take a scenic boat transfer back to Caño Blanco Dock, where your exclusive naturalist guide will join you for the remainder of your journey, sharing fascinating insights about Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems. Your 4.5 to 5-hour drive to Arenal showcases lush jungles, banana plantations, and rolling hills, culminating with the majestic Arenal Volcano on the horizon. Upon arrival at Amor Arenal, settle in and explore the resort’s beautiful trails or relax in its amenities. In the evening, your adventure continues with a visit to Ecotermales Fortuna, renowned for its natural volcanic thermal pools. These rejuvenating pools, heated by the geothermal activity of Arenal Volcano, offer a soothing experience with therapeutic benefits. The warm, mineral-rich waters are ideal for relaxing tired muscles, improving circulation, and promoting overall wellness. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hot springs, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and illuminated by soft, ambient lighting. Your guide will be on hand to provide insights into the volcanic processes that create these unique thermal features and their health benefits, making for a memorable and enriching evening. Overnight at Amor Arenal.

Your day begins with a visit to the iconic La Fortuna Waterfall, where your naturalist guide will lead you on a scenic hike through lush rainforest, pointing out native plants and wildlife along the way. As you descend the 500 steps to the base of the waterfall, be mesmerized by the sheer beauty of the 70-meter cascade of water plunging into a turquoise pool below. Once at the base, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters surrounded by towering trees and vibrant tropical plants. Your guide will explain the area’s fascinating ecology, the river’s role in the local ecosystem, and share stories of Costa Rica’s unique biodiversity. After this invigorating experience, you’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch at a traditional restaurant, offering you a taste of Costa Rica’s rich culinary heritage. Feast on fresh ingredients from the region, from savory plantains to tender meats and farm-to-table vegetables. In the afternoon, your adventure continues with a guided tour of the Arenal 1968 Lava Flow, a significant site that showcases the power and beauty of volcanic activity. As you explore the trails of hardened lava from the 1968 eruption, your guide will share captivating stories about Arenal Volcano’s history, including its eruptions, and explain the impact it has had on the surrounding landscape. You’ll learn about the regeneration of the forest, volcanic rock formations, and the rich diversity of plant and animal life that has adapted to this dynamic environment. As you walk along the lava fields, admire panoramic views of Arenal Lake and the impressive volcano looming above. Your naturalist guide will deepen your understanding of the region’s geology and ecosystem, creating a day rich in both adventure and discovery. Return to your hotel in the evening, feeling inspired by the natural beauty and volcanic forces that define Arenal. Overnight at Amor Arenal.

Bid farewell to the misty cloud forest as you make your way toward Costa Rica’s breathtaking Pacific Coast. Along the scenic drive to Manuel Antonio, your guide will point out fascinating highlights—from crocodile-inhabited rivers to charming local villages brimming with culture. Upon arrival, check in at Arenas del Mar, an eco-luxury beachfront resort offering direct access to a pristine private beach. Spend your afternoon unwinding by the ocean, exploring the surrounding rainforest trails, or immersing yourself in Manuel Antonio’s vibrant culinary scene. This upscale beach town exudes an enchanting, almost storybook-like ambiance, where tales of tropical escapes come to life. Food and drink play a central role in the local culture, with a diverse gastronomic scene that ranges from traditional Costa Rican staples like gallo pinto, plantains, and fresh seafood to world-class fusion cuisine. As the sun begins to set, indulge in a gourmet seaside dinner with panoramic ocean views, capping off a day of relaxation and indulgence. Overnight at Arenas del Mar.

Today’s included adventure is a kayaking tour through Isla Damas Mangroves, a unique ecosystem teeming with monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Paddle through the serene waterways as your guide shares insights into the delicate balance of this coastal habitat. The rest of the day is yours to customize with a variety of options:

• Manuel Antonio National Park: Spot monkeys, iguanas, and sloths along scenic trails leading to pristine beaches.
• Horseback Riding: Explore hidden beaches and jungle trails on a guided horseback adventure.
• Quepos Cultural and Social City Tour
• Night walk in the tropical rainforest
• Leisure Time: Simply relax and soak up the sun at the resort’s private beach.

Your guide will ensure the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, making the most of your last full day in Costa Rica. Overnight at Arenas del Mar.

On your final day in Costa Rica, your dedicated naturalist guide will join you one last time for the journey from Manuel Antonio to San José. As you travel through the breathtaking scenery of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes, your guide will share fascinating insights into the regions you pass through—pointing out the transition from the coastal forests to the mountainous terrain, and the agricultural fields of the Central Valley. This scenic 3 to 3.5-hour drive offers a final opportunity to soak in Costa Rica’s natural beauty, with a chance to spot wildlife along the way and reflect on your adventure. Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport, your guide will ensure a smooth drop-off and assist with any last-minute details, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your time exploring Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity and landscapes. Be sure to arrive at least three hours before your departure for a seamless and stress-free check-in process. Safe travels and we hope to welcome you back to Costa Rica soon!