Costa Rica Adventure | Trip Itinerary

For map of Costa Rica Adventure Trip click here

Day 1:  Arrive to San Jose.  After welcoming you at San Jose airport your guide will bring you to a comfortable hotel in the city.  The evening is free to explore San Jose.

Day 2:  The adventure begins with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the “put in” on the Pacuare River for our two-day whitewater rafting adventure. We will run a total of 27 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids exploring the magnificent river valley. This afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, “El Nido del Tigre.” Nestled between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river, take time to explore the lush environment first hand looking out for toucans overhead or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the river. (B, L, D)

Day 3:  Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We maneuver through the exhilarating rapids and point out the intricacies of the rainforest at the river’s edge. Along the way we take time out to do some hiking to spectacular waterfalls and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” near the town of Siquirres we drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to Arenal Volcano.   (B, L)

Day 4: In the morning we enjoy a picturesque hike through the tropical rainforest. We will be around 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges with wonderful panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall which falls 120ft to a large natural swimming pool. The descent is steep through the undergrowth as we become immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. The falls spill over into smaller gentler pour overs and swim areas which are our natural playground before we begin our ascent. The afternoon may be spent exploring the town of La Fortuna or relaxing in your hotel. Thanks to the Arenal Volcano’s geothermal activity, there is a number of natural hot springs throughout the area. They are designed to be very much in tune with their natural environment and offer a fantastic way to relax in the warm and soothing mineral waters while enjoying spectacular scenery in close proximity, that’s why you will be transfer tonight at one of these amazing thermal waters where the entrance and a delicious dinner will be also included.. (B, D)

From Arenal you have two options:

Option #1: Exploring the Coastal Area-Manuel Antonio National Park
Days 5 & 6:  Today we leave Arenal and cross the country to the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica which is a treasure chest of natural beauty. Rainforest dramatically meets beach and the sea and Manuel Antonio is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach or the National Park. You will often be awakened by the local monkeys - howler, white-faced and squirrel are the most common in the area, as well as iguanas and land crabs. You will find many options for lunch, either on the beach itself or in the town and there are some unique restaurants to explore for dinner. (B)

Day 7:  BEACH / SAN JOSE. The morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the beach. After lunch, you will be transferred to San Jose (25 minute local flight is also an option at an additional charge). The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San José. (B)

Day 8:  You'll be transferred to the airport for your international departure flights. (B)

Option #2:  Monteverde Cloud Forest
Day 5:  ARENAL TO MONTEVERDE You have a choice of transportation for your journey to Monteverde:
a)  Horseback riding between the Arenal Volcano and Monteverde offers the best views of the volcano and lush mountains. Your luggage will either accompany you by packhorse or be transported by boat (weather dependent). If you are looking for a little adventure and a chance to get around in Costa Rica without having to take a bus or taxi then this is the way to go! (approximately 4 hours). Or
b)  For those not comfortable with a horseback ride, take a 30 minute boat ride across the picturesque Lake Arenal to the town of Río Chiquito on the south side of the Lake from where you will be transported by car to your hotel in Monteverde. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
Breakfast is included before you depart. You can choose your own spot for lunch and dinner in Monteverde. Please make your mode of travel preference clear (Options a or b) at the time of reserving your trip. (B)

Day 6:  MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST. There are a variety of optional activities in Monteverde: guided or solo hike through Monteverde or Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, Canopy Tour, a walk around the galleries and coffee houses of Santa Elena, Don Juan coffee tour, night tours, etc. (B)

Day 7: MONTEVERDE /SAN JOSE. You have some time this morning to continue to enjoy the Cloud Forest and have lunch before your pick up for the return journey to San Jose. The evening is free to enjoy the nightlife and restaurants of San Jose. (B)

Day 8:  You'll be transferred to the airport for your international departure flights. (B)
B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner

Costa Rica Adventure Map with option #1: