Totally Costa Rica
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Discover Costa Rica over eight brilliant days, starting and ending in San José. After a warm welcome in the capital, head into the Central Valley’s scenery en route to Arenal and La Fortuna, where you can hike volcanic trails, soak in hot springs, chase waterfalls or add adrenaline with zip-lines and rafting. Next, travel by boat across Lake Arenal to misty Monteverde for cloud forest walks, hanging bridges and coffee or chocolate experiences. Finish on the Pacific coast in Manuel Antonio, mixing laid-back beach time with wildlife-spotting and optional catamaran or mangrove cruises, before returning to San José for your flight home.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
8 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
San JoseEnds
San JoseMinimum age
8 years oldMaximum age
No max ageArrival Transfer
NoDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Services of English-speaking local guides for included sightseeing and activitiesCountry
Costa RicaMeals included
Breakfast: 7Passengers
$1,455.00
$400.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 6 / Max 6
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Services of English-speaking local guides for included sightseeing and activitiesGroup Size
Min 6 / Max 6Tranportation
N/ALanguage
EnglishLanguage
EnglishRange
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Group ToursTour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in San José
San José, Costa Rica’s capital, sits in the Central Valley, framed by green mountains and fertile landscapes. After clearing customs, you make your own way to the hotel, as arrival transfers are not included on this tour.Overnight in San José.
Day 2 - San José to Arenal
San Jose - Arenal Volcano National. Today we travel from San José to the Arenal region, crossing the Central Valley and passing plantations and cattle farms along the way.
We aim to arrive in La Fortuna around midday, with Arenal Volcano as the area’s iconic backdrop. The rest of the day is at leisure, or you can book an optional tour (time permitting).
Day 3 - Arenal at Leisure
Today is free to enjoy Arenal at your own pace in a spectacular natural setting. You may wish to book an optional tour - from volcano walks and rainforest experiences to hot springs and waterfall adventures.
Optional Activities
Mistico Hanging Bridges
A guided walk through a private rainforest reserve, using a series of hanging bridges and trails for canopy-level views and excellent wildlife spotting. Starts 8:00 am or 2:00 pm - approx. 4 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide, entrance fees and snacks.
Arenal Volcano National Park + Boat
A short boat ride followed by a guided walk on the ‘La Península’ trail, with viewpoints, birdwatching opportunities and areas regenerating after past volcanic activity, including historic lava-flow sections.
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge by Boat (incl. lunch)
A full-day river safari in a Ramsar-listed wetland known for birdlife and rainforest species such as monkeys, sloths, iguanas, turtles and caimans. Starts 7:30 am - approx. 8 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide, lunch and beverages.
Safari Float - Peñas Blancas River
A gentle float designed for wildlife viewing, with occasional light rapids for added fun. Starts 7:30 am or 1:00 pm - approx. 5 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide and snacks.
Arenal Volcano + Baldi Hot Springs (incl. dinner)
Arenal Volcano + Ecotermales Hot Springs (incl. dinner) - USD 175 per personA late-afternoon volcano walk focusing on the area’s natural and geological history, followed by time to unwind in thermal waters and enjoy dinner. Starts 3:00 pm - approx. 6 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide, entrance fees and dinner.
Horseback Riding to La Fortuna Waterfall
A guided ride through rainforest and pastures towards La Fortuna Waterfall, with the chance for an optional swim at the base. Includes a visit to the Maleku Indian Cultural Rescue Center.
Balsa River Rafting Class II-III (incl. lunch)
A half-day white-water experience with fun rapids and a stop for tropical fruit, finishing with lunch at a traditional countryside estate. Starts 10:00 am - approx. 6 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide, snacks, towel, beverages and lunch.
Rappelling - Pure Trek (incl. lunch)
A canyoning adventure featuring multiple rappels (including waterfalls), a zip line element and a rock-climbing section in a rainforest canyon. Starts 7:00 am or 12:00 pm - approx. 4 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide and lunch.
Sky Tram + Sky Trek
Ride the Sky Tram to a viewpoint over rainforest, lake and volcano, then continue with zip lines for an aerial perspective of the canopy. Starts 7:00 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am or 11:30 am - approx. 6 hours. Minimum age 8. Includes transport and bilingual guide.
Day 4 - Arenal to Monteverde
Arenal - Monteverde. We continue to Monteverde, travelling by road and then by boat across Lake Arenal before returning to land for the final stretch. We expect to arrive around midday. You then have free time to explore - or you may wish to visit the Cloud Forest, one of Costa Rica’s most distinctive habitats, known for its rich biodiversity. Optional tours are available (time permitting).
Optional Activities
Horseback Riding Tour Ride along mountain trails near the continental divide with wide views across the Monteverde region - and, weather permitting, towards Arenal Volcano. Wildlife spotting is often part of the experience. Approx. 2.5 hours (may be extended).
El Trapiche Tour A family-run experience combining sugar cane, coffee and chocolate, with tastings and a traditional cart ride. Starts 3:00 pm - approx. 3 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide and entrance fee.
Selvatura Hanging Bridges A guided canopy walk on trails and suspension bridges through cloud forest. Departures around 8:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm or 2:30 pm - approx. 2.5 hours. Includes transport, entrance fee and bilingual guide.
Don Juan Coffee TourA three-in-one experience covering coffee, chocolate and sugar cane, including demonstrations and tastings. Departures 8:00 am, 10:00 am, 1:00 pm or 3:00 pm - approx. 2 hours.
Frogs TourAn evening visit to see Costa Rica’s famous frog species in carefully recreated habitats - ideal for a rainy night. Starts 8:30 pm - approx. 1 hour. Includes transport, bilingual guide and entrance fees.
Children’s Eternal Rainforest Visit one of the country’s most significant private reserves, created through international conservation efforts, with guided walks focused on biodiversity and protection. Starts 5:15 pm or 7:15 pm - approx. 2.5 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide and entrance fee.
Night Walk - KinkajouA guided night walk to look for nocturnal wildlife such as sloths, armadillos, porcupines, opossums and kinkajous. Starts 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm or 8:30 pm - approx. 2 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide and entrance fees.
Day 5 - Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
Monterverde - Manual Antonio. Today we drive to Manuel Antonio, celebrated for its beaches, wildlife and easy access to outdoor activities. We expect to arrive around 1:30 pm.
The afternoon is free to relax, explore and enjoy the coastline - you may also choose an optional tour such as a mangrove boat trip around Damas Island, or a visit to a local sustainable spice plantation (time permitting).
Day 6 - Manuel Antonio at Leisure
A full day at leisure. You can take it slow on the beach, or you may wish to book an optional experience - from zip lining and horseback riding to guided time in Manuel Antonio National Park. Another excellent option is a catamaran tour for coastal views, marine life and, conditions permitting, snorkelling and sunset watching.
Optional Activities
Savegre River White Water Rafting (incl. lunch)
Operates May to February. A scenic drive to the river, followed by a guided rafting experience on class III rapids, with time to enjoy the surroundings between sections. Starts 8:00 am - approx. 5.5 hours. Minimum age 8. Includes transport, bilingual guide, fruits, snacks and lunch.
Naranjo River White Water Rafting (incl. lunch)
Operates May to December (not December to May). A more challenging route for adrenaline seekers, with class III rapids and occasional class IV in the rainy season. Starts 8:00 am or 11:30 am - approx. 4.5 hours. Minimum age 8. Includes transport, bilingual guide, fruits, snacks and lunch.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Please note the park is closed on Tuesdays. A guided walk on a mostly flat loop trail with strong chances of spotting wildlife, plus a short beach stop. Starts 7:30 am - approx. 3.5 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide, entrance fee and snacks.
Catamaran Tour (incl. lunch)
Cruise along the coastline from Quepos with opportunities to spot seabirds and marine life, plus time at anchor for snorkelling or relaxing onboard. Morning or afternoon departures - approx. 5 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide, snacks and lunch. Note - the afternoon tour does not operate May to November due to weather conditions.
Damas Island Mangrove Boat Tour
A calm boat trip through mangroves with wildlife watching and guiding on the ecosystem. Departure time depends on the tide - approx. 4 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide and lunch or dinner (depending on departure time).
Jungle Night Walk
A guided evening experience focusing on nocturnal rainforest life, including amphibians, reptiles and other night-active species. Starts 5:30 pm - approx. 3.5 hours. Includes transport, bilingual guide, lantern and snacks.
Day 7 - Manuel Antonio to San José
Manuel Antonia - San Jose. We return to San José today and the rest of the day is at leisure. If you would like to add an experience, optional tours are available.
Optional Activities
Classic San José City Tour
Starts 12:30 pm - approx. 4 hours. Visit key landmarks including the National Theatre, Gold Museum, Central Market and the Metropolitan Cathedral, with additional city highlights along the way.
Gourmet Coffee Tasting and Walking Tour
Operates Monday to Saturday only. Starts 3:00 pm - approx. 3 hours. Learn about Costa Rica’s specialty coffee regions and tasting methods, with different extraction styles sampled across several cafés.
Day 8 - Departure from San José
Today you make your own way to the airport for your return flight home, as departure transfers are not included on this tour.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Prices & Dates
'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers wanting the privacy of their own room.
Can't find a date that works for you?
Dates for 2027 haven't been released yet.
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