Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or a family that is thirsty for a new adventure, your customizable, best of Costa Rica tour celebrates the diversity of the landscape and the mysteries of the wildlife. Soar above the wilderness on a zipline and discover the sounds of the jungle in the early morning. Traverse the cloud forest canopy on hanging bridges and glide across rivers where you can find caiman and roseate spoonbills. Adventurous trails lead to spectacular, volcanic panoramas...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
San Jose – Arrive in the Capital of Costa Rica with an Introductory Tour
The capital of Costa Rica moves at its own pace, capturing the essence of the country’s distinct culture as it spreads throughout the mixture of captivating museums, enchanting architecture, famous art galleries, and bustling night life. The Central Market will embody the country’s traditions with over 200 vendors that sell bright produce that is harvested from around the country. The museums will showcase the heritage of Costa Rica with exhibits focusing on marvelous jade and gold artifacts.
Your private transfer will meet you at Juan Santamaria International Airport upon your arrival and escort you to a gorgeous hotel San Jose. After settling into the comforts of your luxury accommodation, your guide will greet you in the lobby eager to introduce to the cultural history of San Jose at Barrio Amón. The distinct neighborhood will represent the lavish customs of former coffee barons who erected homes around the turn of the twentieth century. The pleasant ambiance derives from the revitalized mansions that are painted with tropical colors and depict a variety of architectural aesthetics, including Victorian and art deco styles. New restaurants, cafes, and boutique hotels have given the neighborhood a fresh, youthful vibrancy for locals to enjoy.
What's Included:
Day 2
Corcovado – Transfer to the Rainforest for an Immersive Experience
Day 3
Corcovado – Enjoy a Guided Hike in Corcovado National Park
Day 4
Corcovado – Discover Natural and Historical Treasures at Cano Island
Day 5
Arenal – Travel to Arenal and Relax in the Thermal Springs
Day 6
Arenal – Explore the Remarkable Foothills of Arenal Volcano
Day 7
Arenal – Delight in an Expedition into the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge
Day 8
Monteverde – Venture to Monteverde Cloud Forest to Tour the Reserve
Day 9
Monteverde – Traverse the Treetops of Monteverde with a Canopy Tour
Day 10
Monteverde – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Explore the fascinating biodiversity of Costa Rica in one of the most celebrated and remote areas with a hike in Corcovado National Park
- Dive into the warm Pacific Ocean along the shoreline of Cano Island for a snorkeling excursion in search of whitetip reef sharks and manta rays
- Soar through the trees on a zipline adventure as you fly like a bird between the towering cloud forest canopies in Monteverde
- Relax in the soothing waters of natural thermal springs in Arenal with pools that reach up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit
- Traverse the captivating lowlands of Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge near the border of Nicaragua for sightings of brown-throated, three-toed sloths
- Enjoy a tranquil hike along the hanging bridges of Monteverde Cloud Forest while learning about the distinctive wildlife and thriving plant life
- Enjoy the opportunity to see the rare and endangered quetzal on a walking tour through the trails of the Cloud Forest
- Delight in a captivating view of the expansive lava fields and harmonious peak of the Arenal volcano on a guided hike of El Silencio Trail
- Sample the incredible flavors of Costa Rican coffee on a tour of a working coffee plantation along the fringes of the Central Valley
Detailed Description
You will indulge in beauty, charm, and intrigue during your 7-day tour through Costa Rica, embracing the best of the wildlife, scenery, and culture. Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure or the peaceful ambiance for which the rainforest canopy is known, you will find the perfect blend of modern luxury and rugged discovery as it is embodied in the quintessential phrase of Pura Vida, meaning “pure life.” You will discover the spirit of Costa Rica within the friendly welcome, captivating scenery, and relaxing environment that is celebrated as one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world.
Your captivating tour of Costa Rica will begin with your arrival in San Jose. A night in the nation’s capital will provide insight into the contemporary culture that is accentuated with vibrant night life, lavish shopping centers, and charming neighborhoods that connect the city’s past with its evolving present. The plantations outlining the Central Valley will boast spectacular coffee crops that offer delicious tastings, personifying the ideal flavors of locally produced coffee. You will enjoy a scenic journey to a gorgeous resort where you will stay for three nights. This resort neighbors Corcovado National Park. The pristine rainforest borders the waters of the Pacific Ocean and will offer chances to view some of the world’s most distinct wildlife including scarlet macaws and spider monkeys. You will enjoy guided hikes, fantastic views, and a sensational snorkeling tour to the coral reefs bordering the secluded uninhabited Cano Island, where whitetip reef sharks and manta rays often retreat.
Arriving in Arenal will offer three nights of soothing thermal baths and views of the majestic peak of the Arenal Volcano. Surrounded by plains, plantations, and primary tropical forest, Arenal will become a gateway to wild exploration that features the marvelous lava fields of El Silencio Mirador Nature Reserve and active wildlife such as caiman, toucans, sloths, and jaguars. Monteverde will become the last branch of your Costa Rican tour for two nights. During these two nights, it will showcase the impressive biodiversity for which the country is known. You will traverse the protected parks on trails, walk along hanging bridges, and fly on ziplines that will provide different ways to experience the natural splendor of Costa Rica. The unique ecosystem supports 120 different amphibians and reptiles, 100 species of mammals, and 500 resident bird species, including the endangered quetzal.
Make sure your perfect Costa Rican vacation is an unforgettable one by seeing additional Costa Rica travel ideas.
Starting Price
$3,000 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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