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Day 1
Arrival in San Jose
Upon arrival to bustling San Jose, our representative will meet and greet you and then direct you to your shared transport, which will drop you off at your hotel in San Jose for your night in Costa Rica. Overnight in San Jose.
Hotel ( Superior): Park Inn 4* (or similar) -
Day 2
San Jose - Tortuguero
Your day begins early with a pick up at the hotel approximately 6:30 am. Embark on the shared bus transfer and travel through the Braulio Carrillo National Park towards the Caribbean plains to enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery and quaint villages. Indulge in a tasty breakfast en route at around 8:30 am in a restaurant in Guapiles and continue through the jungle by boat, cruising the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. Arrive at your eco-lodge in time to enjoy a tasty lunch (included). After lunch, your guide will invite you to go for a hike around Tortuguero town. Visit the Turtles Museum ($1 donation) and come back for dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Tortuguero.
Hotel ( Superior): Laguna Lodge 4* (or similar) -
Day 3
Tortuguero National Park
Make most of your stay in Tortuguero. After breakfast, at 9:00 am join a tour for a 2-hour boat trip on the Tortuguero canals, an essential activity while in Costa Rica. Discover its network of canals, lagoons and dense rainforests through a boat tour guided by an expert naturalist guide. Abundant wildlife inhabits Tortuguero, including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. Rest of day at leisure or possibility to join some optional tours available in the destination. Lunch included and dinner served at the hotel. Overnight in hotel in Tortuguero.
Hotel ( Superior): Laguna Lodge 4* (or similar) -
Day 4
Tortuguero - Arenal
After breakfast, we depart Tortuguero at approximately 9:00 am, by shared boat and land transfers back to Guapiles, where we stop for lunch in a local restaurant at around 1:00 pm (included). After a tasty meal, you will be picked up by a shared transfer and taken to the Arenal area. Arrive at Arenal at 5:00 pm for check-in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Arenal.
Hotel ( Superior): Arenal Manoa 4* (or similar) -
Day 5
Arenal - Monteverde
After breakfast, you will be picked up at your hotel to start Hiking Lava Trails. Explore the Arenal Volcano on a hike along the lava trails of this giant. During the hike, the expert guide will explain you all about the volcano: its activity periods, a little bit of history related to it and will show you some landmarks that were left over the years. Admire its particular vegetation and watch some wildlife. Return to the hotel and relax in the hot springs. Escape to a natural paradise at the hotel with all the necessary services to make you feel relaxed surrounded by the peace and serenity of the rainforest. Sheltered by the impressive Arenal Volcano, enjoy the natural hot springs thanks to the geothermal activity of the volcano. Immerse yourself in the rainforest and live an experience of a sanctuary of relaxation, privacy and tranquillity. Overnight in Arenal.
Hotel ( Superior): Arenal Manoa 4* (or similar) -
Day 6
Arenal - Monteverde
Begin the day with an early breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out and then meet your guide at approximately 7:30 am to head towards Monteverde. Transfer down to Arenal Lake where you will board a boat that will take you across towards Monteverde, where you will arrive at approximately 11:30 am. Once on the other side, a vehicle awaits to take you up to Monteverde. Admire the transition of the rainforest to the cloud forest where you will reach an altitude of 1,200 metres above sea level. Located in the Puntarenas province, Monteverde is a place of cloud forests and mist, coffee plantations, monkeys and friendly locals. The town of Santa Elena is small and quaint, filled with inviting restaurants and folksy artisan shops, while the nearby rainforest hosts a remarkable amount of biodiversity. Enjoy the rest of day at leisure. Overnight in Monteverde.
Hotel ( Superior): Monteverde Gardens 4* (or similar) -
Day 7
Monteverde
Breakfast at the hotel, and rest of day at leisure to relax or discover on your own the incredible Monteverde Cloud Forest. Overnight in Monteverde.
Hotel ( Superior): Monteverde Gardens 4* (or similar) -
Day 8
Monteverde - Samara
Begin your last day in Monteverde with a delectable breakfast. Then, at the appropriate time, you will be picked up by shared transfer to your next destination. Arrive in Samara Beach, in the North Pacific Coast of Guanacaste Province (check-in around 3:00 pm), and enjoy free time at Samara and its surrounding environment offering you an ideal place to relax and have a good time. With its ideal location along the Pacific Ocean, Samara boasts countless aquatic and outdoor entertainment. Horseback riding, stand up paddleboarding, sport fishing, surfing, canopy tours, yoga and kayaking are just a few of the fun activities you can try out (own expense). Overnight in Samara.
Hotel ( Superior): Sol Samara 3* (or similar) -
Day 9
Samara
Today, after a tasty breakfast at the hotel, you will go 2 to 10 miles offshore from Samara beach where one can feel the ocean breeze while gazing at the coastline scenery during our search for these playful animals. You could be lucky enough to see spotted dolphins, Central American Spinner dolphins, Common Bottlenose Dolphins, and Humpback whales (seasonal from August to November). Along the way back to the coast, we will anchor near the shores of Isla Chora, the delightful white-sand beach full of hermit crabs and iguanas. You can cool off in the clear blue sea while continuing your search for underwater life. Beneath the surface teems a lively, colourful world normally hidden from view. Snack some fruits before heading to shore and be dropped off back at your hotel. Overnight in Samara.
Hotel ( Superior): Sol Samara 3* (or similar) - Day 10 Samara - Return After one last breakfast, at the agreed time, pick-up at your hotel in Samara to transfer you to Juan Santamaria Airport Rica to continue your trip.
Included
Operated with English and Spanish-speaking local guides during the scheduled activities (
Day 2 3 5 9). Please note you will be accompanied by local guides for the activities only. There is no guarantee that you will be part of a group or part of the same group during the tour9 nights’ accommodation
9 Breakfasts
3 Lunches (
Day 2 3 4)2 Dinners (
Day 2 3)Snacks (
Day 9)Arrival and departure shared transfers from/to Juan Santamaria Airport
Air-conditioned shared transportation as indicated in the itinerary
Shared boat from Guapiles to Tortuguero and back (
Day 2 4)Boat to Samara waters (
Day 9)All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Tortuguero village guided visit (
Day 2) Tortuguero National Park canals guided boat tour (
Day 3) Lava trails hike Hotsprings at the hotel (
Day 5); Ocean Safari Dolphins Whales & Snorkelling (
Day 9)Meet and greet
Hotel taxes
Exclusions
Services not mentioned in the itinerary
International and Domestic flights
Departure taxes
Visa fees
Expenditures of a personal nature drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the programme
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks mineral water camera/video camera fee (if any)
Optional tours and activities
Porterage and gratuities
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays accidents etc.
Traveling to Costa Rica
A small paradise in Central America, Costa Rica captivates travelers seeking nature, adventure, and authenticity. Between tropical jungles, majestic volcanoes, and dreamlike beaches bordered by two oceans, the country fascinates with its extraordinary biodiversity and its unique way of life known as pura vida. With nearly a quarter of its territory protected as national parks or nature reserves, Costa Rica is a dream destination for anyone wishing to fully immerse themselves in the richness of the natural world.
Wildlife and nature enthusiasts will find an unparalleled playground here: howler monkeys, sloths, sea turtles, hummingbirds, and brightly colored frogs thrive in lush surroundings. Yet Costa Rica is not only about nature—it is also about the warmth of its people and a simple, joyful way of life that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
San José and the Central Valley
The capital city, San José, serves as the country’s main gateway. Often seen as a brief stopover, it nevertheless deserves a visit for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and its museums dedicated to pre-Columbian gold and jade. Surrounding the capital, the Central Valley unfolds with coffee plantations, charming villages, and impressive volcanoes such as Poás and Irazú, whose craters offer striking panoramic views.
The Caribbean Coast
On the Atlantic side, the province of Limón reveals a vibrant and multicultural identity shaped by Afro-Caribbean traditions. Here, calypso music sets the rhythm of daily life and spicy aromas fill the air. Tortuguero National Park is one of the country’s true gems, a network of navigable canals winding through dense jungle and serving as an important nesting site for sea turtles. Farther south, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca enchants visitors with its palm-fringed beaches and laid-back, bohemian atmosphere.
The Pacific Coast
Along the Pacific coast, landscapes shift constantly between cliffs, forests, and long stretches of golden sand. Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-see, where just a few hours of hiking offer encounters with capuchin monkeys, iguanas, and sloths. Farther north, the Nicoya Peninsula is known for its wild beaches, surf spots, and fishing villages. To the south, the Osa Peninsula is home to Corcovado National Park, widely regarded as one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet.
Volcanoes and Tropical Forests
In the heart of the country, Arenal Volcano towers over the town of La Fortuna and its natural hot springs. Nearby, the Monteverde Cloud Forest is an ecological wonder, where misty trails, suspension bridges, and the calls of rare birds create a truly mystical atmosphere.
Culture and Traditions
Costa Rica has had no army since 1948, a decision that reflects its commitment to education, healthcare, and peace. The Ticos, as Costa Ricans are called, are known for their hospitality and simplicity. Their favorite expression, pura vida, is more than a slogan—it is a philosophy that encourages people to embrace life as it comes and appreciate its simple pleasures.
What to Expect as a Traveler
Costa Rica is a safe and welcoming destination, though it can be more expensive than some of its Central American neighbors. Tourism infrastructure is well developed, and ecotourism lies at the heart of the experience. Travelers should be prepared for rain—after all, it is what nourishes the jungle—and for outdoor adventures at every turn. Hiking, zip-lining, rafting, diving, and surfing are all part of the Costa Rican experience.
Cuisine and Drinks
Costa Rican cuisine is simple yet flavorful. Everyday meals often feature gallo pinto (rice and black beans), fresh fish ceviche, and fried plantains. Costa Rican coffee, renowned worldwide, is a true national treasure. Tropical juices, smoothies, and local rum complete the culinary experience.
Practical Information
The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), although U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Spanish is the official language, and English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from December to April and a green season from May to November. The time difference is one hour behind Montreal in winter and two hours behind in summer. Electricity runs at 110 volts, using U.S.-style outlets.
When to Go
The best time to travel is from December to April, during the dry season, which is ideal for enjoying beaches and outdoor activities. The green season, from May to November, brings more rainfall but rewards visitors with even more lush landscapes and generally more attractive prices.
Name: Essentials with Guanacaste
Brand: tripcentral tours
Quality: First Class
Tour Type: Escorted
Start City: San Jose
End City: Samara
Vacation Overview:
Enjoy the many highlights of Costa Rica on this ten-day itinerary, including wonderful rainforests, volcano, cloud forests and sunny beaches. Discover a country of great natural beauty, whether you are watching the Arenal volcano whilst bathing in hot springs, walking in the canopy of Monteverde’s cloud forest, relaxing on the pristine jungle of Tortuguero. Enjoy a tropical stay at Samara, a sunny beach, with perfect landscapes and the environment that surrounds it offers an ideal place to relax and have a good time.
