Wild Costa Rica 15 Days 2026
15 Days: San Jose, Pacuare River, Puerto Viejo De Limon, Tortuguero, Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio & Corcovado
Tour overview:
Experience the Best of Costa Rica: An Adventurous Journey through Nature’s Wonders. Embark on a thrilling 15-day adventure through Costa Rica’s most iconic landscapes, where nature’s beauty and exhilarating activities come together to create an unforgettable experience. This carefully curated itinerary takes you from the vibrant city of San José to the wild rapids of the Pacuare River, the sun-kissed beaches of Puerto Viejo, the lush rainforests of Tortuguero, and the mighty Arenal Volcano. Continue your journey to the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park before heading to the secluded paradise of Corcovado, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Each day brings new opportunities for exploration, from rafting expeditions and hiking tours to wildlife sightings and the relaxing hot springs. Perfect for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those looking to explore Costa Rica’s vibrant ecosystems, this journey will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Day 1 - SJO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – SAN JOSE
Upon your arrival at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), a ST representative will be there to warmly welcome you. They will provide you with all the necessary documentation for your trip, including your detailed itinerary, important contact information, and emergency phone numbers, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your adventure. Afterward, you will be transferred to the San José area, where you will spend your first night in Costa Rica, ready to begin your unforgettable journey.
Day 2 - SAN JOSE – PUERTO VIEJO DE LIMON
Costa Rica's geography reveals a diversity of soaring mountains, active volcanoes and hidden beaches, but one of the best kept secrets are their wild rivers draining into the Caribbean Sea or the Pacific Ocean. One of those rivers is the Pacuare River; catalogued as the most scenic in Costa Rica and one of the top rafting rivers in the world for those who seek a wildlife encounter and unforgettable white-water experience! The adventure begins from the hotel of your selection in San José, where an A/C Van/Bus will pick you up early in the morning for a two-hour transfer to the Caribbean Lowlands. There will be a stop halfway at the Adventure Center for a hearty breakfast before heading to the Pacuare River. Upon arrival to the river's heart, the expert guide will brief you with a full safety orientation talk, then you will be geared up with a life jacket, helmet, paddle, and then, it is time to take off the rapids! The adventure ends up in Siquirres area, where you can take a shower, change into dry clothes, and enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by the tropical gardens while you share with your new friends the great adventure you just experienced! Then, the journey will continue to the beautiful beaches of Costa Rica's South Caribbean, where its crystal-clear waters and paradise-like tropical rainforest will invite you to experience unforgettable days. (BL)
Day 3 - PUERTO VIEJO DE LIMON.
In the morning, you will awaken to the harmonious melodies of the waves and the sea breeze. This day will be at your disposal to explore the town of Puerto Viejo and its surroundings. The South Caribbean coast is a truly remarkable and unique part of the country. It has become a haven for those seeking relaxation on their vacation, offering beautiful beaches to unwind on. Additionally, it presents each visitor with a fascinating cultural blend, featuring rustic infrastructure, a diverse ethnic mix, and a cuisine that includes Afro-Caribbean dishes alongside flavors from other parts of the world. (B)
Day 4 - PUERTO VIEJO DE LIMON
Today, you will visit Cahuita National Park, home to the largest coral reefs in Southern Central America, along with excellent hiking trails teeming with wildlife. The excursion combines a boat ride, snorkeling, and hiking for a complete experience. Upon arriving at Punta Cahuita, you can put on your snorkel gear and explore the “underwater tropical forest,” where you'll encounter various species of corals and colorful fish. Afterward, you will embark on a guided rainforest hike, where you'll receive detailed information about this unique area. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, sloths, reptiles, frogs, and a variety of beautiful insects that call this place home. (BL)
Day 5 - PUERTO VIEJO DE LIMON – TORTUGUERO
Today, you will continue your journey to the northern Costa Rican Caribbean, passing through the town of Guapiles before heading to the local pier. From there, you’ll embark on a relaxing boat trip that lasts over an hour, traveling through the winding access channels to Tortuguero. Surrounded by lush rainforest, this scenic route allows you to enjoy the rich diversity of flora and fauna. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to spot various species of birds, reptiles, monkeys, and other wildlife. Upon arrival at your selected lodge, you will receive an overview of the activities planned for your stay and important recommendations to ensure you make the most of your time in this unique area. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the picturesque village of Tortuguero, where you’ll gain insight into the local way of life. In this small town, bicycles are the primary mode of transport, and tourism has become the main source of income for the community. You'll also learn about the vital conservation efforts supported by local NGOs, which aim to protect one of the Caribbean’s most important nesting sites for green, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles. From July to September, you can take part in an optional excursion (at an additional cost), coordinated directly with the lodge, to witness one of the most impressive natural events: the massive arrival of turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs along the 22 kilometers of protected beach. (BLD)
Day 6 - TORTUGUERO
Today, we will explore Tortuguero National Park, a true paradise that will captivate you with its incredible biodiversity. From the boat, you will experience an authentic connection with nature, as you glide through this lush sanctuary, home to over 2,000 plant species and 400 varieties of trees. You’ll also have the chance to observe some of the 405 bird species that call this area home. Among the diverse mammals, you may encounter white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys, and three-toed sloths. The park is also home to endangered species, including the jaguar, ocelot, and tapir—the largest land mammal in Latin America’s rainforests. You’ll also spot crocodiles, various turtle species, and an array of freshwater fish. Tortuguero promises to provide an unparalleled and unforgettable experience in nature. (BLD)
Day 7 - TORTUGUERO – ARENAL VOLCANO
By midmorning, we will board again from the selected lodge, departing from the local pier as we once again immerse ourselves in the rich biodiversity of the canals. Afterward, we will continue by road to the town of Guapiles, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch before heading toward Costa Rica’s northern plains. The scenic route will guide you through picturesque rural towns, ultimately bringing you to La Fortuna de San Carlos. If the weather is favorable, the majestic Arenal Volcano will greet you with its perfectly conical shape. This active volcano, which has been erupting since 1969, is one of the world’s most active and one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural attractions. Upon arrival, check-in at your selected Arenal Volcano hotel, where you’ll experience a unique blend of local hospitality and the warm tropical climate, making this the perfect getaway for the next three nights. (BL)
Day 8 - ARENAL VOLCANO
In the morning, you will visit the Sky Adventures Park, home to the renowned Sky Tram & Sky Trek. This exciting tour begins with an ascent to the top of the mountain via an aerial tram, offering breathtaking views of Arenal Lake and the surrounding landscapes. The descent will be equally thrilling as you zip through the famous canopy tour (Zip Lines), traveling from one mountain to another, filling you with adventure and fun. In the evening, you will visit the natural hot springs. These geothermal waters, fed by a hot river, flow through a series of serene pools. From cascading waterfalls to lush tropical gardens, the springs are a natural wonder, created when rainwater is heated by the Earth’s magma. As the water rises to the surface, it carries beneficial minerals from the rocky crust. The warm waters help relax muscles, cleanse pores, and rejuvenate the skin, offering a deeply therapeutic experience for your body and mind. (BD)
Day 9 - ARENAL VOLCANO – MANUEL ANTONIO
Today you will continue your journey to the beautiful and paradisiacal beaches of the Costa Rican Pacific, which are known throughout the world especially for their impressive combination of tropical forests and multicolored beaches. No doubt, you will have some unforgettable days where you can relax and enjoy your 2-night stay (suggestion) at the selected hotel. (B)
Day 10 - MANUEL ANTONIO
These days at leisure to rest, enjoy the sun and the beach and eventually explore on your own some of the optional excursions (extra cost) offered in the area. Some of these activities are hiking in National Parks, Canopy, boat tours and many other activities. (B)
Day 11 - MANUEL ANTONIO – CORCOVADO
After breakfast, we will continue to the South Pacific area of Costa Rica, specifically the area of Sierpe. Upon arrival, a boat will take you across the river and the sea to the selected Lodge. You will stay in the next three nights in Corcovado. This area of the South Pacific of Costa Rica is currently called "The Final Frontier" or "The Navel of Life”, as described by National Geographic as "the most biologically intense place on Earth". This region is home of 350 species of birds, 150 species of mammals, over 100 species of reptiles and amphibians, about 5500 insects, and 500 species of trees. Staying in this area will allow you to have a deeper contact with nature, especially for those seeking a unique and eco- tourism vacation. (BLD)
Day 12 - CORCOVADO.
After Breakfast, we will enjoy an excursion to Corcovado National Park, located in the Osa Peninsula. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the primary and secondary forest, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna. The boat trip to the ranger station takes approximately 30 minutes, but it depends on the weather and the sea. Whenever possible, as we approach the park entrance, your guide will try to show you the ocean whales, dolphins, or other marine species. The first part of the trail is a steep hill, through the secondary jungle. Large slabs of tree trunk are strategically located for an easier walk on the ground. Just before reaching the plateau, on your left side, there will be a viewpoint overlooking the resort and the Pacific Ocean. After the hike at San Pedrillo we will back to the hotel on time for your lunch time. (BLD)
Day 13 - CORCOVADO
This morning we will enjoy visiting Caño Island Biological Reserve, which is located just 12 nautical miles from the coastline. The boat ride to the island takes about 45 minutes, but it depends on the weather, sea and other conditions. The island, which is located 90 meters above sea level, rises to a wide plateau, which is covered with a forest of evergreen high. On the island, it is possible to observe the stone spheres made by the first civilizations that inhabited the area. Right in front of the ranger station, there is a beach area most often used to relax and have fun. The real beauty of Caño Island is not in their land, but underwater, as it is surrounded by five platforms of coral reefs, where experts have identified more than 15 species of stony corals. The dark volcanic rock is home to many impressive species of marine flora and fauna. The water is relatively shallow and suitable for snorkeling, allowing an excellent opportunity to become familiar with marine life surrounding Caño Island. (BLD)
Day 14 - CORCOVADO – SAN JOSE
The sea and land transfer will take you back to Drake airstrip, where you will take a domestic flight to San José. Upon arrival at the domestic terminal in San José, you will be transferred to the selected hotel. (B)
Day 15 - SAN JOSE - SJO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
After enjoying an unforgettable days in Costa Rica, a transfer is scheduled from your selected hotel in San José to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your return flight home. (B)