A fantastic combination of adventure and nature in three of Costa Rica’s most visited regions: the Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest and the Manuel Antonio National Park in the Central Pacific. We have designed this 10-day / 9-night Costa Rica vacation package to feature some of Costa Rica’s highlights such as lush rainforest, active volcanoes, hot springs, and the mystical Cloud Forest. You will be able to observe wildlife, spend time on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and enjoy signature adventures in nature such as white water rafting, canyoning and canopy tours (zip lining). Our pricing reflects three hotel combinations in the economical, deluxe and luxury categories. Our Costa Rica travel experts are ready to customize this package, suggesting other possible hotels, modifying the activities or the mode of transportation.
Day 1: San Jose Arrival
Arrive at the San Jose International Airport. Upon clearing immigration and customs, exit the airport where you will be met by your driver who will transfer you to your San Jose hotel. Check in and explore the dining, and entertainment options that the capital of Costa Rica offers.
Day 2: San Jose - Arenal
At a time TBD, your driver will pick you up at the hotel to transfer you to the Arenal Volcano Region. Head northeast on the Interamerican highway and then up the mountains towards San Ramon. The weather will change somewhat abruptly as you enter a region that is covered with primary and secondary forest. The drive will then continue through the fertile region of San Ramon, leading to the San Carlos flatlands, home to some of Costa Rica’s top agricultural products, including oranges, papayas and cassava. Arrive in the Arenal Volcano Region and check into your hotel. Consider a visit to one of the renowned hot springs resorts in the evening (included for packages staying in Tabacon Grand Spa).
Day 3: Rafting in Arenal
After an early breakfast, you will be picked up at the hotel by the staff of the rafting company to embark on a full day white water rafting (class III) expedition down the Sarapiqui River. Enjoy the 90 minute drive to the river, followed by a safety talk and receive the required gear. Enjoy the expedition down the rapids and take in the beautiful scenery. Experience the adrenaline rush of the class III + rapids, and relax during the calm stretches of this amazing river. Complete the adventure and return to your hotel.
Day 4: Safari Float In San Carlos
Half day Safari Float in the Penas Blancas River. A great way to experience the rainforest and see the wildlife of the Northern Region. Upon return to your hotel, relax at the facilities or embark on another half day activity in the region.
** possible tour substitutions include hikes in the Arenal Hanging Bridges and the Arenal Volcano National Park, tours on horseback to the Fortuna Waterfalls and visits to the Cano Negro Wildlife Reserve **
Day 5: Arenal - Monteverde by land / boat
Start this adventurous day with a splendid Costa Rican breakfast buffet at your hotel. Later, embark on a 15-minute boat ride across Arenal Lake, followed by a ride up the mountains to Monteverde. Witness the changes in vegetation and climate as you ascend from 900 meters to 1600 meters above sea level. Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the Cloud Forest.
Day 6: Canopy Tour (Zip Lines) and hike in Monteverde
Following an early breakfast, experience the thrill of the Sky Trek Canopy adventure or hike across the hanging bridges of the Sky Walk. The Sky Trek is a signature canopy adventure that consists of a series of platforms and lines that allow you to glide through the forest. The Sky Walk consists of a guided hike over suspended bridges spanning the Cloud Forest. Take in spectacular views of the cloud forest from three distinct perspectives: the ground level, the mid section and from above. In the afternoon, enjoy free time or embark on another activity in the Monteverde Region.
Day 7: Monteverde - Manuel Antonio
Time to relax at the beach! Board the private transfer van for the four-hour journey through the mountains towards the Pacific Coast. Your drive will take you down the southern face of the mountains towards the Interamerican Highway. You will then veer south and travel parallel to the Pacific Ocean, past the towns of Puntarenas, Jaco and Parrita. Upon arrival in the Manuel Antonio Region, check into your hotel room.
Day 8: Hike in Manuel Antonio National Park
Following an early breakfast, you will be picked up at the lobby of the hotel for the short drive to the Manuel Antonio National Park. Enjoy this guided tour of one of the jewels of the Costa Rica National Park System. Spot three species of monkeys, sloths, iguanas, coatimundis and a wide range of birds and reptiles. Relax at one of the country’s prettiest beaches—we recommend staying at the beach in the park until closing time at 4:00 pm. Upon conclusion, return to the hotel.
Day 9: Free days in Manuel Antonio
Free day in the Manuel Antonio Region. We recommend the following activities (not included):
Quepos is home to some of the world’s best sport fishing. Boats with experienced crews and great service can be reserved on site.
Experience sea or estuary kayaking in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, and get a great workout at the same time!
Marvel at the unspoiled beaches of Manuel Antonio and the mysterious islands that lay just offshore as you sail on a 37-foot catamaran off the Central Pacific waters. Jagged rock formations and towering cliffs are host and nesting grounds to countless marine birds and their young. Search for spotted dolphins and keep an eye out for giant sea turtles and migrating humpback whales. The tour will stop in one of the many protected jungle coves to swim, snorkel and enjoy lunch or dinner.
Explore the mangroves guided by experts. This tour presents a unique opportunity to spot local wildlife while traveling by boat through this pristine ecosystem. Expect close encounters with white-faced monkeys, sloths and many bird species.
Join other horse lovers on a guided horseback tour through the Pacific Lowland Rainforest Reserves in Manuel Antonio to a spectacular waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the pristine lagoon.
Overnight at your Manuel Antonio hotel.
Day 10: Driveto San Jose and return home
Free morning to relax in Manuel Antonio and perhaps embark on another adventure in the region. Check out of the hotel and board the van for the 2 and 1/2 hour private transfer to San Jose International Airport for your return flight.
Package includes:
3 nights in the Arenal Volcano Region
2 nights in Monteverde
3 nights in Manuel Antonio
1 night in San Jose
Private transfer San Jose Airport – San Jose Hotel
Private transfer San Jose - Arenal
Private transfer Monteverde - Manuel Antonio
Private transfer Manuel Antonio – San Jose
Lake crossing transfer Arenal - Monteverde
Daily breakfast at the hotels
Sarapiqui White Water River Rafting
Safari Float in Arenal
Sky Trek / Walk Tour in Monteverde
Guided hike of Manuel Antonio Park
Hotel & sales Taxes
For travel during peak holiday season, including Christmas and Easter, please contact our Costa Rica vacations experts at (888) 928-3688. |
