An introduction to Costa Rica, it's rainforests, volcanoes, beaches and rich culture

Day 1 - Day of arrival

On arrival at San Jose International Airport, you will be transferred to the Bougainvillea Hotel on the outskirts of the capital. Where possible, Sunvil handpick locally owned and managed hotels and the Bougainvillea is no exception; this is one of the few independent hotels in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. The hotel also enjoys a tranquil setting amidst ten acres of botanical gardens, 15 minutes' drive from the centre; has a focus on customer service and places importance on the promotion of local gastronomy and heritage. As such the property is a firm favourite with the team and our guests.

Overnight at the Bougainvillea Hotel in San Jose (Bed & Breakfast).

Bougainvillea hotel, San Jose

Day 2 - Transfer to the Tortuguero National Park

After an early breakfast, you will be transferred east towards Costa Rica's Caribbean coast and to the Tortuguero National Park. This group transfer will cross the central highlands and the banana growing district of Limon by road before travelling by boat to your final destination, the Mawamba Lodge. This remarkable property is in the heart of the rainforest, where its only neighbour is the impressive local wildlife. There are no roads here, just pristine and protected nature interspersed by a network of navigable lakes, rivers and canals. For those hoping for the chance to see Capuchin, Spider and Howler monkeys, two and three-toed sloths, American crocodiles, caiman and more look no further.

This afternoon, a guided tour of the local village of Tortuguero is included. The visit will provide an insight into the sights, sounds and smells of local life, and will also enable you to engage with those who protect this region of outstanding natural beauty.

Overnight at Mawamba Lodge in Tortuguero National Park (Full Board).

Mawamba lodge, Tortuguero

Day 3 - Tortuguero National Park

Founded in 1975, Tortuguero National Park covers an area of approximately 26,000 hectares inland and 50,000 marine hectares and is best explored by boat. Today we have included a group guided wildlife canal boat trip and guided walk for your enjoyment. Keep your eyes peeled, you never know what you will see.

During your free time at Mawmba Lodge be sure to explore their butterfly and frog gardens and to learn about the property's sustainability projects. You can also borrow a hammock and relax on the beach (swimming is not permitted), lounge around the pool or book additional experiences: kayak tours, sunrise and sunset excursions, fishing trips and massages to name but a few.

Overnight at Mawamba Lodge in the Tortuguero National Park (Full Board)

Tortuguero

Day 4 - Transfer to Arenal

After breakfast, you will be transferred by boat and road to the Montana de Fuego Eco Resort and Spa in the foothills of the Arenal volcano. The nutrient rich soils and volcanic formations of the region have come together to create one of the most ruggedly beautiful areas in the country. Aromatic and colourful flowers border green fields, dense tree plantations reach high to the sky and the sound of nature can be heard all around. Waterfalls, volcanic craters, thermal pools and wildlife reserves are all waiting to be discovered and your hosts will be on hand to ensure that you get the most out of your stay.

Overnight at the Montana de Fuego Eco Resort and Spa in Arenal (Bed & Breakfast).

Montana de Fuego Hotel, Arenal

Day 5 and 6 - Free time in Arenal

Arenal is quickly becoming recognised as one of Costa Rica's leading destinations for outdoor pursuits. Sunvil can pre-book a host of activities in advance for our guests or experiences can be arranged locally. Choose from rainforest hikes, mountain biking, river tubing, zip-lining, horse riding and white water rafting to name but a few of the activities on offer. Our personal favourites include a relaxing bathe in the Ecotermales hot springs and the Hanging Bridges of Arenal, a series of six suspension bridges which take you high into the cloud forest. A stay here can be as relaxed or adrenaline-filled as you desire.

Overnight at the Montana de Fuego Eco Resort and Spa (Bed & Breakfast)

Arenal volcano

Day 7 - Transfer to the Nicoya Peninsula

After breakfast, transfer south to the Pacific coast and to the Nicoya Peninsula. This full-day transfer includes a 90 minute scenic ferry ride and will transport you to a region that has been identified as one of the world's five 'Blue Zones', where the local population live remarkably longer lives. Your accommodation for the next four nights is the Tango Mar beachfront boutique hotel and villas, and its location could seemingly have been taken from a romantic novel - golden sands bordered by the bluest of seas and the greenest of vegetation.

Overnight at the Tango Mar on the Nicoya Peninsula (Bed & Breakfast).

Tango Mar, Playa Quizales

Day 8, 9 and 10 - Days at leisure on the Nicoya Peninsula

Days at leisure at the Tango Mar and on the Nicoya Peninsula. Stay close to the hotel or venture further afield, independently or with a guide, the choice is yours. We'd highly recommend visiting the Curu reserve by boat, home to some 200 species of bird; exploring the rich underwater world using snorkels or by diving and taking a sunset cruise - after passing the southernmost point of the peninsula nothing stands between you and the horizon, a wonderous sight.

Overnight at Tango Mar on the Nicoya Peninsula (Bed & Breakfast).

Nicoya peninsula

Day 11 - Day of departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Sao Jose International Airport for your return flight to the UK (c. 5 hours).