Costa Rica
9 Days, 8 Nights
Best Price $2,549
Let Us Handle Every Part of Your Travel
See multiple facets of this Central American gem in a weeklong stay, including its capital city, the Arenal Volcano, and the Manuel Antonio National park on its stunning Pacific coastline.
San Jose
Costa Rica's vibrant capital, nestled in the fertile Central Valley, serving as the nation's political, economic, and cultural heart, known for its rich history, diverse architecture, museums (Jade, Gold), bustling markets (Central Market), leafy parks (National Park), and as a gateway to volcanoes and nature, offering a blend of cosmopolitan flair and accessible Central American culture with pleasant, spring-like weather year-round.
Arenal
centers around the iconic, near-perfectly conical Arenal Volcano, a stratovolcano famous for its frequent eruptions from 1968 until its resting phase began in 2010, though it remains active
Manuel Antonio
a stunning Pacific coast destination famous for its Manuel Antonio National Park, a biodiverse hotspot where lush rainforest meets pristine white-sand beaches, offering incredible wildlife viewing (monkeys, sloths), hiking trails, and activities like snorkeling, making it a top spot for adventure and nature lovers
Ready to discover the natural wonders of Costa Rica? Arrive at your chosen departure airport and take-off for Central America. Land at Juan Santa maría airport and transfer to your hotel in San José. Spend the evening resting or exploring the city as you please! Overnight in San José.
Breakfast at the hotel. Get an informative briefing from your guide before a shuttle ride to Arenal (approx. 4 hours). An icon of Costa Rica, Arenal is an active volcano nestled in the green, forested north-central part of the country with oppourtunities to hike, bike, and swim abound. Transfer to your hotel and take some free time to rest and enjoy an independent lunch.
Meet your guide for a tour of La Fortuna, the main town in the region and a base for all further exploration. Get an insiders’ view with tips and hidden treasures, along with an included cup of local coffee to get your energy up! Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Arenal.
Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the morning at your leisure, further acclimating to your new surroundings. For those looking to relax on this trip, why not join an optional excursion to the Paradise Hot Springs?*
In the afternoon, meet with your guide for a tour of the Arenal Volcano. Begin in the northwestern section, which was known to be the most active during the last eruptive period. Hike across the regenerating forest and cross over petrified lava, a product of past eruptions. During the tour, our experienced guides will provide context regarding the history of the volcano, lithological cycles, forest formation processes, and general volcanology.
*Optional excursion to Paradise Hot Springs: Revitalize your mind and body with mineral waters naturally warmed by the Arenal Volcano. Enjoy beautiful views and landscaped gardens along with relaxing music. Enjoy an included Costa Rican meal to end your excursion.
Breakfast at the hotel. Today you have a free day to enjoy in Arenal as you wish. Not sure what to do? Try out one of our optional excursions! You could head to the La Fortuna Waterfall* or try a Tarzan tree-swinging zipline adventure.** Overnight stay in Arenal.
*Optional Fortuna Waterfall & La Finquita tour: Begin your day with a guided tour of La Fortuna Waterfall, which stands 150 feet tall and boasts crystal-clear waters. The falls cascade into a pool below perfect for swimming, playing, and taking pictures! Next, head to La Finquita (“the little farm” in Spanish) to learn more about the local farm-to-table movement and enjoy a freshly-made meal together.
**Optional Arena Canopy Adventure: Just 30 minutes away, visit the world-renowned Arenal Zipline Park and take a 1.2-mile journey through the sky! Observe multiple ecosystems from above, crossing forests, mountains, and canyons on your journey. Don’t worry: while this activity may sound intense, you’ll be accompanied by trained guides to keep you safe the entire time.
Breakfast at the hotel. Say goodbye to Arenal, it’s time to take your private transfer to the Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. On your drive, you may opt to stop at scenic viewpoints like the Tarcoles River Bridge–you might even spot the crocodiles!
Arrive at Manuel Antonio (approx. 5 hours) and check into your hotel. This relatively small reserve is known for its pristine beaches, rocky islets, hiking trails, and tropical wildlife. It's also one of Costa Rica's most popular destinations, with ziplines, snorkeling, and more! With the afternoon ahead of you, take advantage of free time to unwind on the beach or explore the picturesque surroundings of the hotel at your leisure. Overnight stay in Manuel Antonio.
Breakfast at the hotel. Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a tour of Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its biodiversity and beautiful beaches.
Head to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park for a guided hiking tour. The trail is almost flat and approximately 2 miles long, and your guide will be equipped with telescopes that you can use to observe wildlife from afar. You may encounter toucans, sloths, raccoons, coatis, snakes, various species of monkeys and much more! Halfway through the hike you will make a stop at a beach located within the National Park.
On finishing the tour, you will be provided with transportation back to your hotel. But you may also choose to stay behind and enjoy a sunset cocktail on the beach, although if you choose this option the return transfer will be arranged by you. Overnight stay in Manuel Antonio.
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy your final morning in Manuel Antonio at your leisure, soaking in your final hours in this natural paradise. In the afternoon, return to San José (approx. 3 hours) to spend your last night in Costa Rica. If you didn’t have the chance to explore the city's attractions before, you have some time now! Overnight in San José.
Breakfast at the hotel*. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport (approx. 40 minutes) to board your flight back to the US. Night on board.
*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
Touch down in the US and end your trip, filled with brilliant memories and feeling refreshed after your Costa Rican adventure!
Availability
Departures available until December 2026
Multiple fixed group departure dates to choose from
Extra Nights
We offer you the chance to extend the trip’s duration for several extra nights (the number of extra nights may vary). You will be able to add more nights during the checkout.
Private Tours
Ideal for families, friends or couples who want to travel in a private environment. Includes a personal expert local guide and private transfers along the whole trip.
Group Tours
Travel in small groups (up to 30 people) with guaranteed departures. Available only for 2 or more passengers.
Solo Travelers
Travel solo but not alone. Have your own private room and enjoy your trip as part of a group. The price includes a single room accommodation supplement
Travel Notes & Advisory
Departures From Main US airports.
International flights: US - Los Angeles - US
All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
Taxes, Drinks, Tips, And Any Other Services
not mentioned in what's included.
7 nights accommodatiom
Charm category hotels & 7complimentary breakfasts Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
Useful Information
Entry requirements Valid passport with at least one day beyond the date of entry to Costa Rica and proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or a ticket to another destination. A Visa is not required for stays less than 90 days. Currency Costa Rican Colon, Language Spanish, Electricity 110 V. Adapter required. Health Please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis. Time zone UTC - 06:00 Local emergency number: 128
Comprehensive Travel
Bilingual English/Spanish speaking guide during the excursions.
Tour Escorts
Please note that the times shown in the itinerary may be affected by operational reasons. Follow the guidance provided in-country by the local provider. Travel times in some areas may be longer due to factors like traffic, weather, or possible road closures that may occasionally cause delays. Hotels in Costa Rica may differ from standards in Europe and the United States. They are often more traditional, set in natural surroundings, and offer a unique charm. This is an independent tour with guided shared activities, not an escorted group tour. Some activities may be guided by a bilingual guide (English and Spanish) who provides explanations in both languages, depending on the composition of the group. Any hotel mentioned in the offer, whether the main one or an alternative, is as likely as each other to be confirmed. You will find your final hotel confirmation on your updated trip summary approximately 15 days before departure.