Costa Rica: an intrepid adventure
Embark on a seven-day Costa Rican adventure, immersing yourself in a blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and serene natural explorations. Begin by conquering the exhilarating Pacuare River rapids, then journey northwest to the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano. Witness its splendour with a guided hike, relax in natural hot springs, and traverse the cloud forest of Monteverde on a unique jeep-boat-jeep ride. Engage in a canopy adventure on hanging bridges and zip-lines amidst the lush landscape. You'll have time to slow your pace as you enjoy leisurely strolls through San José to explore cultural sites, vibrant markets, and local cuisine. Each day of this trip brings diverse experiences, promising an unforgettable expedition through Costa Rica's natural wonders and heritage.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1
San Jose
Experience the thrills of San José
Day 2
San Jose - Pacuare River
Take to the waters of the Pacuare River
Day 3
Pacuare River - La Fortuna
Journey to the mighty Arenal Volcano
Day 4
La Fortuna - Arenal - La Fortuna
Hiking in the shadow of Arenal
Day 5
La Fortuna - Arenal - Monteverde
Surreal boating & horseback experiences
Day 6
Monteverde
Up in the treetops of Monteverde
Day 7
Monteverde - San Jose
Return to San José
Day 8
San Jose
The adventure comes to an end
Detailed Itinerary
San Jose
Day 1: Experience the thrills of San José
Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon your arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport, meet and greet your local representative and take a private transfer to your accommodation in San José.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, where traditional Costa Rican cuisine is high on the menu, then venture out to explore cultural Downtown hotspots, from theatres to public plazas. Return to your accommodation for an overnight stay.
San Jose - Pacuare River
Day 2: Take to the waters of the Pacuare River
Early morning, depart for the banks of the Pacuare River, from where you'll embark on an incredibe white-water rafting adventure. Safety instructions and equipment will be provided before you begin this high-adrenaline, incredible immersion into the local landscape.
Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying a self-guided walk to waterfalls and wild swimming pools, or simply relaxing in a hammock overlooking the river. Come evening, dine under the stars, surrounded by the vibrant sounds of the jungle, before returning to your accommodation for a local overnight stay.
Pacuare River - La Fortuna
Day 3: Journey to the mighty Arenal Volcano
Today you'll head deep into the rainforest on an unforgettable hike led by an expert naturalist guide, who will help you discover the secrets and wild riches this landscape has to offer.
In the afternoon, pack up and continue your journey northwest by private transfer, to the epic Arenal Volcano National Park - enjoying picturesque views of the Costa Rican wilderness en route. Arrive into La Fortuna, gateway to the iconic Arenal, for an overnight stay.
La Fortuna - Arenal - La Fortuna
Day 4: Hiking in the shadow of Arenal
Spend your morning at leisure in La Fortuna, where you could get to know the town's markets or rest at your accommodation, all the while enjoying the pleasant local ambiance. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to conserve enough energy for a guided hike through Arenal Volcano National Park - this excursion will be filled with wildlife observations and learnings about the area's fascinating volcanic history.
Soothe weary muscles with an evening visit to natural thermal springs near the volcano, where you can sink into total relaxation for a while, before returning to your accommodation for an overnight stay.
La Fortuna - Arenal - Monteverde
Day 5: Surreal boating & horseback experiences
Today, travel by jeep-boat-jeep across Lake Arenal, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and impressive volcano itself as you slice through its tranquil waters. Upon your arrival into Monteverde, saddle up for a gentle horseback ride through the serene cloud forest, guided by local experts. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in Monteverde, where you'll have an overnight stay.
Monteverde
Day 6: Up in the treetops of Monteverde
Today, take to the treetops of Monteverde as you set out on a guided excursion across its hanging bridges, where unique perspectives of the diverse cloud forest ecosystem can be explored. You'll also enjoy the thrills of a zip-lining experience through the forest canopy, spotting diverse flora and fauna from above. The views you'll witness today are particularly enchanting, and will stay embedded in your memory long after you've headed back onto solid ground.
Monteverde - San Jose
Day 7: Return to San José
Today you'll return to San José, experiencing the whirlwind transition from nature back to city life. Spend the afternoon getting to know the city a little more, visiting its museums and historical sites. Make sure to stroll along Avenida Central, one of the busiest avenues here, for a chance to interact with the capital's residents, enjoy an authentic slice of local living, and seek out great culinary options for your final night in Costa Rica.
San Jose
Day 8: The adventure comes to an end
This morning, enjoy one last leisurely stroll around the capital, perhaps picking up some last-minute souvenirs or indulging in local delicacies. You'll then take a private transfer to the airport for departure, bidding farewell to Costa Rica and concluding your adventure-filled trip.
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