Highlights
- Conquer the rapids on a rafting trip down the Pacuare River
- Go on a canyoning excursion, nature walk, and hot springs soak in Arenal
- Tour the cloud forest of Monteverde on horseback and via zipline
- Go ocean kayaking and snorkeling or take a surfing lesson in Sámara Beach
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in San José | San José |
| Day 2 | Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River & Transfer to La Fortuna | Arenal/La Fortuna |
| Day 3 | Canyoning, Arenal Nature Walk & Hot Springs | Arenal/La Fortuna |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Monteverde, Horseback Riding in the Cloud Forest | Monteverde |
| Day 5 | Zipline Fun in the Cloud Forest | Monteverde |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Playa Sámara | Sámara |
| Day 7 | Ocean Kayaking or Surfing Lessons | Sámara |
| Day 8 | Transfer to San José, Explore | San José |
| Day 9 | Depart San José |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in San José
Welcome to Costa Rica! The country is all about nature. You can feel it in the purity of the air the moment you land in this tropical paradise. Right after you go through immigration and customs, a travel representative will meet you at the airport exit to load the luggage into a vehicle and transfer you to the hotel. The hotel for tonight is close to San José—just 15 minutes away from the airport.
During the short drive, you'll receive a brief introduction to Costa Rica and some recommendations for your trip. The guide will explain your itinerary in detail once you arrive at the hotel. Tonight, enjoy a nice dinner and explore the lively culture of the city. San José offers a variety of dining options and different cultural experiences, including theaters, historical sites, and public plazas in the downtown area.
Day 2: Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River & Transfer to La Fortuna
In the morning, have breakfast, and a driver will pick you up at the hotel to transport you to the Río Pacuare (Pacuare River) area, about three hours away. On the ride, get ready to experience an incredible Costa Rican rafting adventure. Upon arrival at the river, the expert guides will proceed with the safety talk and technical instructions, and you'll have the chance to practice paddling on calmer waters.
From here, explore the stunning river rapids and enjoy the gorgeous scenery all around. Some of the most exciting rapids are the Upper and Lower Huacas, Cimarron, and Dos Montañas, but the waterfalls next to the river are an added bonus to the whole experience. Once half the river is conquered, have lunch on the banks of the river to recharge your energy for the last part of the rafting tour.
After this trip, continue traveling northwest to the northern plains of the country to the La Fortuna area, where the stunning Arenal volcano welcomes you. Arenal was discovered after a full-force volcanic eruption in July 1968. It has also erupted in 1975, 1993, and 1998 but is currently inactive. Arrive by late afternoon at the hotel in the Arenal area, and the rest of the day is free to rest and enjoy the hotel facilities.
Day 3: Canyoning, Arenal Nature Walk & Hot Springs
After breakfast at the hotel, head out on an exciting rappelling (or "canyoning" )tour of the Lost Canyon Waterfalls. A comfortable motorcoach will take you to the entrance of a stone path. Then, ride the "forest limousine" up the mountain for about 15 minutes until you reach the center of operations. Listen to the safety briefing, collect your equipment, and start the adventure. Expect to rappel down huge waterfalls while jumping into pools of slow-moving water. Zip your way down with a guide, tracing the river along the canyon as you rappel the ravine walls and river boulders, and hike up through the rainforest.
Pause for a delicious lunch, which is included after the adventure. Then, transfer back to your hotel.
In the afternoon, enjoy more of the rainforest and relax in the natural hot springs near the volcano. Begin with a nature walk in Arenal Volcano National Park, where an expert guide will explain interesting facts about the volcano and its history. There are many chances to see wildlife on the hike and, of course, experience the volcanic activity firsthand. The trail is easy, and your guide will help with spotting and pointing out wildlife as you walk. Next, reach the thermal waters near the volcano, where you can swim and relax in the naturally heated hot springs. Dinner is included at the hot springs restaurant, so you can enjoy more time soaking and decompressing.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Transfer to Monteverde, Horseback Riding in the Cloud Forest
After breakfast, travel to the inspiring Montverde Cloud Forest in a particularly unique way. Board a Jeep-Boat-Jeep across Lake Arenal to get to Monteverde. Enjoy spectacular views of the volcano and find different species of birds while you navigate through the tranquil lake; the staff will point out the many birds and other animals you may see.
Monteverde has one of the most important protected cloud forests found in the world. There are just a few of these forests; therefore, it is very important to conserve and protect the unique plants and animals inhabiting these lands. While visiting, explore the forest and meet the friendly locals who enjoy living in harmony with Mother Nature.
In the mid-afternoon, head to a private property to ride a horse through the cloud forest. The ride begins on a real coffee plantation, where you'll learn why this product is so important to the economy and culture of Costa Rica. The tour continues through dirt roads, trails, and some small rivers, all the while enjoying spectacular views of the Gulf of Nicoya.
Day 5: Zipline Fun in the Cloud Forest
After breakfast, head out to tackle one of the most popular activities in Costa Rica—the canopy tour, or ziplining, as it’s called locally. It consists of gliding between trees and mountains via wires and a harness specially designed for the movements. While you "fly" through the dense cloud forest, see and feel all the natural activity occurring within the treetops. Birds, insects, and some other mammals are easy to see with the help of your guides. Don't forget your camera, so you can capture the amazing views of the cloud forest on your own.
Following the excursion, the rest of the day and evening are at your leisure.
Day 6: Transfer to Playa Sámara
Following breakfast, head to the North Pacific area of Costa Rica. Take note of the change in landscape and temperature as you navigate to the beach.
Upon early arrival in Playa Sámara (Sámara Beach), check in and get settled, and then enjoy the entire afternoon on the beach. Your hotel will have everything you need to enjoy your stay. The beautiful beach produces small waves and is surrounded by tropical rainforests. Make sure to set aside some time to experience the stunning sunset.
Day 7: Ocean Kayaking or Surfing Lessons
After breakfast, you can choose between two adventures. If you want to explore underwater marine life, opt for ocean kayaking and snorkeling near Chora Island. Start paddling from Sámara Beach and continue across the bay to a deserted, white-sand beach. This island is a refreshing escape, and you are free to snorkel with tropical fish, splash and swim in clear waters, or simply sit and relax under the golden rays of the sun.
If you want to catch some waves, Sámara is the perfect beach to learn how to surf—or improve your surfing skills. The ocean has little-to-no rip currents, and the waves are small-to-medium-size, which is perfect for practicing your technique. Your experienced guides have been surfing all their lives and will show you all the tricks and tips.
Return to the hotel after either adventure, and the rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the beach and hotel facilities.
Day 8: Transfer to San José, Explore
After breakfast, it's time to travel back to civilization. A travel representative will take you back to San José to enjoy your last night in the country. In the afternoon, check into your hotel downtown and explore the city. Visit museums and historical buildings, and stroll Central Avenue, a place where you can interact with locals and learn a little more about Costa Rican culture.
With time, be sure to explore Barrio Amón, a historic neighborhood that is home to cafetalero (coffee grower) mansions built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of this area's historic buildings have been converted into hotels, restaurants, and galleries, making it a frequented bohemian district. For dinner, opt for a restaurant on the hills of Escazú. This elevated region on the western edge of the city offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. That said, San José's culinary offerings cover everything from traditional Costa Rican food to forward-thinking fusion cuisine.
Day 9: Depart San José
As they say, all good things must come to an end. After breakfast, say goodbye to beautiful Costa Rica and take with you all of the stunning memories from your adventure. A driver will pick you up at the hotel and take you straight to the airport, which is just 15 minutes away. Keep in mind that in Costa Rica, you must arrive at the airport three hours prior to your departure time. Have a safe flight!
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