10 Days: San Jose, Tortuguero, La Fortuna, Monteverde & Guanacaste

Tour overview:

Experience the best of Costa Rica, from the wildlife-filled canals of Tortuguero and the volcanic landscapes of Arenal to the cloud forests of Monteverde. End your journey with a relaxing stay on the beautiful Pacific beaches of Guanacaste.

Day 1 - ARRIVE IN SAN JOSE

Upon arrival at San José International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your private guide and transferred to your hotel in the capital city. Along the way, enjoy a brief panoramic tour that offers a first glimpse into Costa Rica’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and scenic urban landscapes, framed by the mountains that surround the Central Valley.

As the day comes to a close, gather for a welcome dinner, an ideal opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and begin your Costa Rican adventure. Surrounded by the warmth and hospitality for which the country is renowned, this first evening sets the tone for an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica’s extraordinary natural wonders and rich biodiversity.

Meal Included: Dinner

Day 2 - SAN JOSE – TORTUGUERO

After an early breakfast, depart towards Costa Rica’s lush Caribbean lowlands, a region renowned for its rich biodiversity and tropical scenery. As the journey unfolds, watch the landscape transform from the Central Valley’s rolling hills to expansive rainforest and waterways teeming with life. Continue by boat through the enchanting canals of Tortuguero, one of Costa Rica’s most important wildlife sanctuaries. Surrounded by dense rainforest, this scenic navigation offers excellent opportunities to observe the region’s remarkable flora and fauna, including monkeys, sloths, caimans, river turtles, and a variety of colorful bird species in their natural habitat. Upon arrival at the lodge, receive an introduction to the area and its unique ecosystem before settling into your surroundings. Enjoy included lunch and dinner while immersed in the tranquility of this remote natural paradise, where the sights and sounds of the rainforest create an unforgettable experience. 

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner



Day 3 - TORTUGUERO

Begin the day with breakfast at the lodge before setting out on a guided exploration of Tortuguero’s renowned canal system, often referred to as the "Amazon of Costa Rica." Gliding silently through the waterways, you will discover one of the country’s most biodiverse ecosystems, where lush rainforest meets a network of serene canals.

Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, keep an eye out for an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including monkeys swinging through the treetops, colorful tropical birds, reptiles basking along the riverbanks, and an abundance of exotic plant life. Every turn of the canal offers new opportunities to connect with nature and appreciate the incredible biodiversity that makes Tortuguero a true wildlife haven. Return to the lodge to enjoy included lunch and dinner, with time to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this remarkable rainforest destination.

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 - TORTUGUERO – LA FORTUNA

After breakfast, depart Tortuguero by boat, retracing the region’s scenic waterways one final time while taking in the sights and sounds of the rainforest. This journey offers a last opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary natural beauty of one of Costa Rica’s most important wildlife refuges. Upon reaching the mainland, continue with a private guided transfer towards La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano. Along the way, enjoy a lunch stop in Guápiles and take in the ever-changing landscapes that characterize Costa Rica’s countryside. Vast agricultural plantations, rolling green hills, tropical forests, and rural communities provide a fascinating glimpse into the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

Arrive in La Fortuna and check in to your hotel, nestled in a region celebrated for its volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and lush tropical scenery. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before gathering for an included dinner at the hotel.

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 - LA FORTUNA

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Arenal region with a day dedicated to exploring its extraordinary rainforest landscapes and volcanic scenery. Begin with a guided visit to the Hanging Bridges, where a network of trails and suspended walkways offers a unique perspective of the rainforest canopy. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, discover the rich biodiversity of the area while searching for tropical birds, monkeys, sloths, reptiles, and a remarkable variety of plant species that thrive within this vibrant ecosystem. Continue to the spectacular La Fortuna Waterfall, where crystal-clear waters cascade dramatically through a lush canyon surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. This stunning natural setting provides excellent opportunities to appreciate the beauty and power of Costa Rica’s rainforest environment. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the foothills of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Walk along historic lava trails that reveal the geological forces that shaped the region, while enjoying panoramic views of the volcano and the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, learn about the area's volcanic history and the ecological regeneration that has transformed former lava fields into thriving habitats. The day concludes with a relaxing soak in natural hot springs, where mineral-rich thermal waters emerge from the volcanic heart of Arenal. Surrounded by tropical gardens and rainforest scenery, this peaceful experience offers the perfect opportunity to unwind before enjoying an included dinner.

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 - LA FORTUNA – MONTEVERDE

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before a leisurely morning in La Fortuna. Take time to explore the charming town at your own pace, browse local shops, experience everyday Costa Rican life, or simply relax while admiring the views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes. After lunch at a local restaurant, begin a scenic journey towards the mystical cloud forests of Monteverde. Cross the tranquil waters of Lake Arenal by boat, surrounded by spectacular views of the volcano, rolling hills, and the lush countryside that defines this remarkable region. On the other side of the lake, continue through picturesque rural communities and forested mountains as you ascend into the higher elevations of Monteverde. As the climate changes and clouds begin to drift through the treetops, the landscape transforms into one of Costa Rica’s most unique and biodiverse ecosystems. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and settle into the peaceful atmosphere of the cloud forest region. Surrounded by nature and cool mountain air, enjoy an included dinner as you prepare for the adventures that await in this extraordinary destination.

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 - MONTEVERDE

After breakfast, venture into one of Monteverde’s most renowned private reserves for a guided exploration of the remarkable Curi Cancha Reserve. Known for its exceptional biodiversity and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, this protected area offers an intimate encounter with the unique cloud forest ecosystem that makes Monteverde famous worldwide. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, walk along scenic forest trails surrounded by towering trees draped in mosses, orchids, bromeliads, and other fascinating epiphytes. The reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities to spot colorful toucans, motmots, hummingbirds, and, with a bit of luck, the resplendent quetzal. Along the way, keep an eye out for monkeys, coatis, and other wildlife that inhabit this extraordinary environment. Enjoy included lunch before spending the afternoon at leisure. Those wishing to further explore Monteverde may choose from a variety of optional experiences, including thrilling canopy adventures through the treetops, immersive coffee plantation tours, visits to butterfly and hummingbird gardens, or additional walks along hanging bridges suspended high above the forest floor. Dinner is included, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on a day spent immersed in one of Costa Rica’s most captivating natural landscapes.

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 - MONTEVERDE – GUANACASTE

After breakfast, depart with your private guide towards Costa Rica’s sun-drenched Pacific coast, leaving the misty cloud forests behind as the landscape gradually transforms into the warm, tropical scenery of Guanacaste. Along the way, enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills, cattle ranches, traditional rural communities, and dry tropical forests that characterize this unique region of the country.

Upon arrival in Tamarindo, check in to your beachfront resort and settle into the relaxed atmosphere of one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated coastal destinations. Known for its golden-sand beaches, spectacular sunsets, and vibrant Pacific shoreline, Tamarindo offers the perfect setting to unwind after days of exploring the country’s rainforests and mountains.

The remainder of the day is free to enjoy the resort’s facilities, stroll along the beach, or simply relax while listening to the sounds of the ocean. Your All-Inclusive plan allows you to make the most of your stay, combining comfort, leisure, and the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (ALL INCLUSIVE)

Day 9 - GUANACASTE

Wake up to a leisurely breakfast at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa and enjoy a full day at leisure in one of Costa Rica’s most exclusive beachfront settings. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific coast, this is the perfect opportunity to slow down, relax, and enjoy the comforts of the resort at your own pace. Spend the day unwinding by the expansive swimming pool, strolling along the beach, or simply soaking in the warm tropical atmosphere. The surrounding coastline offers stunning ocean views, spectacular sunsets, and a peaceful environment where nature and luxury blend seamlessly. For those seeking a more active experience, a variety of optional activities are available nearby, including water sports, catamaran cruises, wildlife encounters, horseback riding, and other adventures that showcase the beauty of Guanacaste’s coastal landscapes. Your All-Inclusive plan allows you to fully enjoy the resort’s facilities and dining experiences throughout the day, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay on Costa Rica.

Meal Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (ALL INCLUSIVE)

Day 10 - DEPARTURE – LIBERIA AIRPORT

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel, taking in the last moments of Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and beautiful natural surroundings. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time to relax and reflect on the unforgettable experiences, diverse landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife encountered throughout your journey. At the appropriate time, meet your private guide and driver for a comfortable transfer to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia. As you travel through the scenic landscapes of Guanacaste, bid farewell to Costa Rica’s rainforests, cloud forests, volcanoes, waterways, and pristine beaches—memories of a country celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity and commitment to nature conservation. Depart with a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica’s natural wonders and the unforgettable experiences that make this destination truly unique.

Meal Included: Breakfast