Explore Costa Rica Highlights: Manuel Antonio National Park, Beautiful Beaches & San Jose Adventure
Explore Costa Rica Highlights: Manuel Antonio National Park, Beautiful Beaches & San Jose Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day Costa Rica adventure, starting and ending in the vibrant San Jose. Traverse through the heart of Costa Rica's untouched beauty, from the soaring Arenal Volcano National Park to Monteverde's mystical cloud forests, and the breathtaking Manuel Antonio National Park. Connect with welcoming locals, explore diverse ecosystems, and unwind on serene beaches. Highlights include the cultural treasures of San Jose, the green sea turtle haven of Tortuguero National Park, the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano, the unique biodiversity of Monteverde, and the lush, wildlife-rich Manuel Antonio National Park. A dream journey for eco-travelers and adventure seekers.
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Set off on a thrilling 13-day expedition through the heart of Costa Rica, bookended by the vibrant atmosphere of San Jose. This adventure is a calling for those eager to discover the unparalleled natural splendor and biodiversity that positions Costa Rica as a premier destination. Be swept away by the splendor of Arenal Volcano National Park, delve into the enigmatic cloud forests of Monteverde, and revel in the untouched beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park, a pinnacle of global conservation efforts. Encounter an astonishing variety of wildlife, including vivid birds, intriguing insects, and lush flora. Interact with the hospitable local inhabitants, whose rich cultural heritage will enrich your adventure. Unwind on the idyllic shores of Manuel Antonio beach, located in a charming seaside village that epitomizes the ultimate retreat for eco-conscious travelers and explorers seeking to immerse themselves in nature.
Key experiences of the tour encompass:
- San Jose: Immerse yourself in the dynamic essence of Costa Rica's capital, discovering its rich historical tapestry. Tour the city's museums, marvel at the National Theater's European-inspired architecture, and stroll through historical neighborhoods.
- Tortuguero: Experience the untouched beaches critical to the nesting of green sea turtles, and embark on a wildlife viewing adventure to see a vast assortment of animals and birds in their natural settings.
- Arenal: Be captivated by the imposing beauty of one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes, surrounded by a national park teeming with diverse wildlife and picturesque trails.
- Monteverde: Explore a primeval cloud forest, originally settled by American Quakers in the mid-20th century, showcasing six unique ecological zones, endangered species, and a staggering variety of plant life.
- Manuel Antonio: Discover the allure of Costa Rica's most compact national park, a haven of biodiversity, verdant landscapes, and untouched beaches, crafting memories that will last a lifetime.
This enchanting Costa Rican journey promises a matchless blend of excitement and tranquility amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, sure to captivate and enrich every traveler.
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Itinerary
Discover Essential Costa Rica: A 13-Day Exotic Adventure
Uncover essential Costa Rica during this 13-day exotic adventure. Beginning and ending in the capital, San Jose, this tour offers you the chance to discover different aspects of this emblematic destination. Visit the most predominant natural areas of Costa Rica, including the Arenal Volcano National Park, and the cloud forest of Monteverde. Spend precious time visiting the Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most stunning conservation areas on the planet. During the trip, keep an eye out for a variety of animals, bugs, as well as plants and don’t forget to mingle with the friendly locals for a versatile experience. Enjoy a tropical nights at Manuel Antonio beach; a small Oceanside village with plenty of great places to stay tucked into nature. The region is a treasure for biodiversity, attracting nature buffs, eco-travelers and adventure-seekers alike.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
San Jose: Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city was founded in the mid-18th century, boasting great cultural and historical landmarks. Visit its museums, the European-inspired National Theater, and stroll the charming alleys of its historic neighborhoods.
Tortuguero: This park is home to the nesting grounds of the green sea turtles, offering spectacular beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds.
Arenal: Admire one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the country and its mesmerizing park, dotted with trails and rich in wildlife.
Monteverde: Settled by American Quakers in the 1950s, this primary cloud forest is made out of six unique ‘life zones’, hosting many endangered species, as well as a variety of fascinating plants.
Manuel Antonio: This picturesque national park is the smallest one in Costa Rica but it is full of wild animals, lush vegetation, and beautiful beaches.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Upon arrival to bustling San Jose, our representative will meet and greet you and then direct you to your transport, which will drop you off at your hotel in San Jose for your the night in Costa Rica. Overnight in San Jose.
Day 2: Your day begins early with a morning departure, traveling by bus 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 and continue through the jungle by boat, cruising the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. Arrive at your eco-lodge and enjoy a tasty lunch. Board the boat again for a visit to Tortuguero village, where you will get to walk around town, stroll along the beach, and experience the locals’ way of living. During the turtle hatching season, we will look for the baby turtles trying to find their way down to the ocean. Nesting is from July to September and hatching from September to December. Enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel, surrounded by the beautiful tropical forest and wildlife. Lunch and dinner included Overnight in Tortuguero.
Day 3: Today you will have some free time to relax by the pool and experience the Tortuguero National Park on a three-hour trip. Observe over 350 protected species of birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and sloths, as well as lush vegetation. During the July to September season, you can join an optional late night turtle nesting tour, purchasable directly at the lodge. Lunch and dinner included. Overnight in Tortuguero.
Day 4: Early in the morning depart by boat back to Guapiles. From there, take the ground transportation to the restaurant for lunch. After a tasty meal, you will be picked up in a shared transfer and taken to the Arenal area. Enjoy the day at leisure to explore on your own or join some of our optional activities. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 5: Today after breakfast, take a guided walking tour in Arenal Volcano National Park. During the tour, the guide will explain the periods of activity the once very active volcano experienced. Enjoy the verdant landscapes and the backdrop of the now-dormant volcano, as you keep a lookout for the wild animals living in this national park. You have the chance to spot sloths, howler monkeys, anteaters, and many others. Overnight in Arenal.
Day 6: Begin the day with an early breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out, and head towards Monteverde. Transfer down to Arenal Lake where you will board a boat that will take you across towards Monteverde. Once on the other side, a vehicle awaits to take you up to Monteverde. Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 7: After a nourishing breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 8: This morning after breakfast, head towards a stunning beachside destination, descending to Manuel Antonio National Park. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 9: After indulging in a delicious breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel to transfer to the Manuel Antonio National Park. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 10: Get to know Manuel Antonio Beach, in the Central Pacific Coast of Puntarenas Province. Overnight in a hotel in Manuel Antonio.
Day 11: Enjoy a full day at leisure to discover Manuel Antonio and its secluded beaches. Overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 12: After breakfast, transfer to your hotel in San José. Overnight in hotel in San José.
Day 13: Begin your last day in spectacular Costa Rica with a delectable breakfast and then, at the appropriate time, transfer to Juan Santamaria International Airport to catch your flight back home or on to your next destination. Breakfast included.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Operated with Spanish and English-speaking licensed local guides on a shared basis. 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 tour.
- 12 nights accommodation
- Accommodation options vary by location and include Standard, Superior, and Deluxe categories in San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio.
- 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches on days 2, 3, 4, and 2 dinners on days 2, 3
- Air-conditioned transportation as indicated in the itinerary on a shared basis
- Private transfer from/to the San Jose International airport
- Tour guides do not accompany guests during transport
- All monuments and visits as indicated: Guided visit to Tortuguero village plus guided boat tour through Tortuguero National Park canals and entrance fee to Tortuguero National Park, guided hike in Arenal Volcano National Park, guided hike in Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, guided hike in Manuel Antonio National Park
- Meet and greet on Day 1
- Hotel taxes
Exclusions
- Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme
- Airport taxes
- Airport porterage
- International and domestic flight tickets or visa fees and local taxes
- Gratuities for drivers and guides
- Optional tours and activities
Important Notes
Embark on a captivating 13-day journey through Costa Rica, starting and ending in the bustling capital of San Jose. This unique adventure takes you to breathtaking landscapes and showcases the rich biodiversity of the area. From the majestic Arenal Volcano National Park and the mystical cloud forests of Monteverde to the stunning natural beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park, experience the best of Costa Rica. Encounter diverse wildlife, engage with warm locals, and relax on the tropical beaches of Manuel Antonio.TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
- San Jose: Dive into the vibrant culture and history of Costa Rica's capital. Explore museums, the National Theater, and historic quarters.
- Tortuguero: Experience pristine beaches, nesting grounds for green sea turtles, and a chance to spot diverse wild animals and birds.
- Arenal: Marvel at one of Costa Rica's most beautiful volcanoes and explore its wildlife-rich park with scenic trails.
- Monteverde: Explore a primary cloud forest with six distinct 'life zones,' home to endangered species and a wide array of plants.
- Manuel Antonio: Visit Costa Rica's smallest, yet incredibly diverse, national park, known for its wildlife, lush scenery, and pristine beaches.
- Tour guides do not accompany guests during transport.
- No refund for unused services. Splitting the package is not allowed.
- Local conditions may result in modifications to tour contents without prior notice.
- Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Mondays.
- Hotel early check-in, late check-out, connecting, or adjoining rooms are subject to availability and not guaranteed.
Themes
Adventure
Cultural Immersion
Wildlife