Great for travelers flying in and out of the Liberia airport, this 4-day beach getaway takes you to the heart of Guanacaste. You'll have plenty of time to relax and soak up the unique landscapes and beaches of the region, with just the right amount of adventure thrown in.

Highlights

  • Go horseback riding and ziplining in Rincon de la Vieja National Park
  • Relax on the pristine beaches of Guanacaste
  • Take a catamaran cruise and watch the sunset over the Pacific ocean

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Liberia - transfer to Gulf de Papagayo Gulf de Papagayo
Day 2 Day of Adventure - Zipline, Horseback Riding, and Hot Springs Gulf de Papagayo
Day 3 Beach Day and Sunset Catamaran Sail Gulf de Papagayo
Day 4 Depart Costa Rica from Liberia  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Liberia - transfer to Gulf de Papagayo

Waterfall in Rincón De La Vieja National Park
Waterfall in Rincón De La Vieja National Park

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Liberia is a gateway town that welcomes visitors who pass through it seeking adventure and respite in the shimmering beaches of the Pacific or the misty rainforests of the country. The Daniel Oduber International Airport although small, offers modern facilities and from here it takes about 40 minutes to reach the coast where you will be spending the next few days.

Day 2: Day of Adventure - Zipline, Horseback Riding, and Hot Springs

Enjoy some horseback riding
Enjoy some horseback riding

You'll begin the day bright and early with a morning pick-up from your hotel. You will transfer an hour or so east to the foot of Rincón de la Vieja National Park. This is home to another active volcano, and like at Arenal, you'll find trails and waterfalls here. Upon arrival, get ready for your adventure to start.

First, you'll embark on a 40-minute horseback-riding excursion. Marvel at the surrounding views as you make your way higher and higher into the park. Your destination: the first of many zip-line platforms. All told you will whiz over the forest canopy on 12 different zip lines, including one that is 320-feet high.  

After the adrenaline rush of the zip line, it will be time for lunch at a local restaurant. After eating, relax in the natural hot springs before heading back to your hotel.

Plan your trip to Costa Rica
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Day 3: Beach Day and Sunset Catamaran Sail

Plenty of idyllic beaches in the area
Plenty of idyllic beaches in the area

Today is all about beach time. After breakfast at your hotel, get out and explore the coastline around Guanacaste. Maybe hit Playa del Coco, which is a popular fishing village with many salsa bars, restaurants, and nightlife. You could even try a little surfing. 

In the evening, you'll board a catamaran in the Golfo de Papagayo for a sunset sail. The boat will drop anchor in a calm bay and you'll enjoy some snorkeling while the crew prepares a dinner feast. While you eat, bask in the sunset over the horizon while making sure to keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, or even a breaching whale.

Day 4: Depart Costa Rica from Liberia

Liberia, Costa Rica
Liberia, Costa Rica

It's time to say adiós to Costa Rica! After breakfast, you'll begin the drive to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, in Guanacaste’s capital city of Liberia, for your return flight home.

Map

Map of Explore Guanacaste from Liberia - 4 Days
Map of Explore Guanacaste from Liberia - 4 Days
Emily
Written by Emily Strauss, updated Feb 18, 2021