Classic Costa Rica 15 nights
ABOUT THIS ITINERARY
Experience the vibrant essence of Costa Rica in this expertly curated 10-day escape that blends rainforest, volcanoes, and coastal paradise. Begin in San José’s cultural heart, then explore cloud forests and coffee country in the highlands. Venture to the Arenal region for hot springs and wildlife, and unwind on both Pacific and Caribbean coasts while staying in handpicked accommodation. All transportation, local guides, unforgettable experiences, and daily breakfasts (with many extras) are included.
Price Includes
International flights
Private transfers
Activities and tours as mentioned
All accommodation
24/7 support while you're away
UK airport transfers (conditions apply)
DAY 1-2
SANTA BARBARA DE HEREDIA
On arrival to San Jose international airport you will be met by a Tailored Journeys representative who will accompany you to your highly-rated boutique coffee plantation hotel in the central valley close to Costa Rica's capital.
Get a taste of Costa Rican culture and history on a walking tour through the colonial towns of Barva and Heredia. Stop by an artist’s studio to watch the evolution of handmade giant puppet costumes and visit the Roman Catholic Church of San Bartolome.
A third stop in the town of Heredia, the provincial capital founded in 1706, includes a stroll around the town center to view Heredia’s Spanish colonial-style landmarks.
After a light lunch, discover the intricacies of Finca El Jicaro’s peppercorn plants, and the cacao fruit from which chocolate is produced. You will be introduced to medicinal plants used in Costa Rica and meet the family who have created this eco-agricultural wonder.
Accommodation: Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Resort
DAY 3-4
TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Tourtuguero has no roads, no cars, no city noise, and is known as “the little Amazon in Costa Rica”.
You'll be transferred to Pavona dock where you'll take a boat to your eco-lodge boutique hotel set in the canal waterways of the tropical rainforest located on Costa' Rica's Caribbean Coast.
Head to the charming village of Tortuguero, a Caribbean corner full of culture. Walk through its colorful streets, before visiting the Turtle Museum, a space dedicated to the protection of these majestic creatures.
Immerse yourself in the magic of the forest with a guided walk along the exclusive private trails of the lodge. As you make your way along nature-surrounded trails, you will have the opportunity to observe playful monkeys, colorful tropical birds and a variety of species that inhabit this unique ecosystem.
Accommodation: Mawamba Lodge
DAY 5-7
LA FORTUNA
Sail once again through the fascinating canals of the National Park, where you will be met by Tailored Journeys and transferred to your boutique hotel located in the Arenal Volcano National Park.
Discover Costa Rica’s rainforest like never before on our exclusive night jungle walk in La Fortuna. This guided night hike takes place on a private conservation property and as night falls, the jungle awakens with sound and movement. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, you’ll explore trails as you search for the fascinating creatures that come alive after dark.
Time for white water rafting! Meet your expert guides and then climb aboard your raft to begin your adventure. Begin your rafting tour as you navigate thrilling rapids, as you paddle downstream keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife including sloths, monkeys, exotic birds, and a lot more.
You'll also have the opportunity to visit La Fortuna Waterfalls that stands at a height of 210 feet (64 metres). There is a fascinating viewpoint at the top of the valley and at the bottom of the river, there are natural pools where you can cool off after the walk.
Embark on a nature hike around the foothills of majestic Arenal Volcano before relaxing at a hot spring.
Accommodation: Lomas del Volcan Hotel
DAY 8-10
MONTEVERDE
Head to the charming town of St Elena in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Head out on a guided plantation visit on a family farm where you will have the opportunity to visit the coffee and sugar cane plantations and a cocoa greenhouse. You will learn the process that goes into creating artisan chocolate and you will be amazed by learning about coffee and its different processes.
Get a new perspective on the forest through the Sky Walk, Sky Tram, and the Sky Trek system of zip lines, trams and hanging bridges to admire the forest from the air. Spot different flora and fauna from the air, and admire the cloud forest, Arenal Volcano, Miravelles, and Orosi Volcanoes.
Spend the rest of your time in St Elena at your own leisure, a few things we recommend are:
Cloudforest ATV quad biking
Sunset horse riding
Visit a local cheese farm
Visit Monteverde National Park
Wildlife and birdwatching hikes
Accommodation: Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
DAY 11-15
MANUEL ANTONIO
Head to the warm ocean waters and sun-frenched tropical white sands in Manuel Antonio located on the Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. As well as hosting a great beach, Manuel Antonio is a great base for water sports, snorkelling, diving, whale and dolphin watching and more.
You have 3 days here to spend at your leisure, a few things we recommend are:
Exploring the town of Manuel Antonio and Quepos
Wandering around the Manuel Antonio National Park
Kayaking, Jet Skiing and Surfing
Visiting the 'Kids of the Rainforest' NGO
Mangrove channel boat trips
White water rafting
Accommodation: Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
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