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Beach and Rainforest Honeymoon
Overview
Introduction
Costa Rica, a haven for honeymooners who adore nature, boasts a captivating blend of untamed landscapes and breath taking scenery. Imagine dense forests teeming with wildlife, majestic volcanoes rising from the earth, rolling highlands painted in vibrant hues, and not one, but two stunning coastlines. It's a destination that redefines the concept of a romantic getaway.
While the typical image of a honeymoon often involves idyllic beaches and leisurely strolls, Costa Rica offers an alternative for couples seeking a touch of adventure. This Central American gem is rapidly gaining popularity as a premier destination for those who crave excitement and exploration, complemented by moments of serene relaxation by the ocean.
Romance in Costa Rica can be found in secluded hideaways nestled within mist-shrouded forests, at the foot of awe-inspiring volcanoes, or on hidden peninsulas that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. However, it's through shared experiences and exploration that truly unforgettable memories are forged. Picture yourselves unwinding in natural hot springs, surrounded by lush greenery. Imagine soaring through the rainforest canopy, hand-in-hand, as you gain a unique perspective of the world below. Envision trekking through national parks, where vibrant birds flit through the trees and sleepy sloths hang from branches, creating a sense of wonder and awe.
Costa Rica's allure lies not only in its natural beauty but also in the opportunity it provides for couples to connect with each other and the environment. It's a place where you can escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary, creating a honeymoon experience that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast, Full BoardAgenda
Day 1 - Day of arrival
On arrival you will have a private transfer (approximately 50 minutes) to the Hotel Xandari in the Central Valley with accommodation in a Prima Plus Villa for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.
We have featured the Xandari hotel ever since we started our Latin America programme over 20 years ago. This hotel is one of our firm favourites. It is set in the magnificent landscape of the Central Valley in 40 acres of coffee plantation and tropical gardens. All the 24 bungalows have contemporary, colourful furniture and a large, walled terrace which ensures privacy but also panoramic views. There are three swimming pools, a private trail through the estate and a waterfall. The spa offers massages, jacuzzi and yoga. Much of the food in the restaurant comes from the Xandari’s own gardens and greenhouse. A special property. The Central Valley is very lush with a mild and dry year round climate. The valley is surrounded by four main volcanoes - Poas, Barca, Irazu and Turrialba and represents over a fifth of the country’s area. Two rivers dominate, the Tarcoles to the west and the Reventazon to the east.
Overnight stay at Xandari Hotel in Central Valley
Pool, Xandari hotel in Central Valley
Day 2 - Central Valley - Full day guided tour
Today you will have a private guided full day tour to Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfalls including lunch. The Poas volcano is an active 2,708 metre stratovolcano. The crater of the volcano is over a mile across. Visitors are allowed a maximum of 40 minutes in the park. 10 minutes for the trek to the crater, 20 minutes at the crater and 10 minutes for the return walk. La Paz waterfalls gardens has 5 waterfalls, safe hiking trails, aviary with numerous species of birds, insect exhibition, butterfly observatory, hummingbird garden and serpentarium.
Overnight stay at Xandari Hotel in Central Valley
Day 3 - Transfer and raft on the Pacuare river
An early morning group transfer to the Pacuare Jungle Lodge. This includes a rafting trip to the Lodge. The journey in total will take approximately 4 hours. Your stay is on a full board basis for 2 nights. National Geographic rank the Pacuare as among the top river experiences in the world. The River plunges down the Caribbean slope through a series of spectacular canyons with tranquil pools after each stage. All around is tropical forest. On the final day at the Lodge, you will raft through the last section of the river (Class III and IV rapids). If you are staying at the Lodge you should have a certain level of fitness and be able to swim and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for rafting up to Class IV. This is a unique lodge with 20 comfortable cabins set on the banks of the Pacuare river. It is also possible to access the Lodge by a rough road. The staff act as boatmen, cooks, waiters and chambermaids/men. Pacuare is a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World and it certainly lives up to its name. This is luxury, not like a 5 star hotel but luxury in wooden jungle cabanas. There is a pool, bar and restaurant. Some of the cabins have their own plunge pool. Views are either overlooking the river or to the lush gardens. A special and very romantic place!
Overnight stay at Pacuare Lodge
Rafting on the Pacuare river
Day 4 - At Pacuare
Today you are at leisure in a wonderful spot. Activities at the Lodge can be booked and paid for locally and include a canopy tour through the rainforest, horse riding and a hike to a Cabecar Indian community.
Overnight stay at Pacuare Lodge
Pacuare Lodge on Pacuare river
Day 5 - Raft and transfer to Arenal
Raft out of the lodge and then by a private transfer to the 4 star Nayara Resort (approximately 5 1/2 hours in total) for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis. The Nayara shares facilities with its neighbour and sister property Nayara Springs (adults only). We have been informed that more than 15 sloths have taken up residence in their grounds. A sensitively designed hotel where the screened windows of the suites and villas manage to bring nature into the room itself. This luxury boutique hotel and spa is an ideal honeymoon retreat. It is located amongst tropical rainforest with views towards one of the most beautiful volcanoes one could wish to see. The bungalows, all of different size and dotted in different locations within the resort, are furnished in wood and local materials. They have outside as well as indoor showers, terraces and are furnished with colourful local materials. There are the two wonderful spas, swimming pool, four restaurants and private hot tubs scattered around the gardens.
Overnight stay at Nayara Gardens
Arenal volcano
Day 6 - Arenal - Private half-day guided tour
Today includes a half day guided tour of Arenal’s Hanging Bridges, the best way to appreciate the tropical lushness which surrounds the most spectacular cone of Arenal Volcano. Explore the local area at leisure. Howler monkeys, macaws and brilliant butterflies flourish among the heliconias and cascading waterfalls. A multitude of activities are on offer in this tropical rainforest wonderland but one that must be appreciated is a swim and relaxation in the Ecotermales hot springs. This is a great area for walking, horse-riding and birdwatching.
Overnight stay at Nayara Gardens
Hanging gardens (suspension bridges) in Arenal
Day 7 - Transfer to Piedras Blancas National Park
Private transfer to San Jose Airport (approximately 3 hours) for a flight to Puerto Jimenez or Golfito in in the far south of the country (approximately 45 mins) and then transfer by boat (45 minutes) to Playa Cativo for 3 nights on a full board basis.
This delightful National Park was created in 1993 and consists of 35,000 acres of tropical rainforest and mangroves. It has been steadily purchased with help from the Austrian government and the renowned classical Austrian violinist Michael Schnitzler. It has now been donated to the Costa Rican government. It is located across the bay from from the Osa peninsula and Corcovado National Park. The perfect romantic spot. Playa Cativo is a smart lodge located in an idyllic setting on the shores of the Golfo Dulce. There is a restaurant, bar, freshwater outdoor swimming pool, library and organic farm. The beautiful and lush gardens are abundant with butterflies , birds, small mammals and exotic birds. If you are interested in bird watching then you could not find a better place. The National Park surrounding the Lodge accommodates 750 species of trees, 140 species of mammals, 367 species of birds and 117 species of reptiles.
Overnight stay at Playa Cativo
Playa Cativo in Piedras Blancas National Park
Day 8 & 9 - Piedras Blancas National Park
Apart from just relaxing there is much to do in this heavenly spot. You can hike, take self-guided walks, nature tours, fish, kayak, whale and dolphin watching, snorkel, paddle board, yoga and experience the rainforest at night (all tours are payable locally except for kayaks, paddle boards and snorkelling gear which are included in room rates).
Overnight stay at Playa Cativo
Playa Cativo in Piedras Blancas National Park
Day 10 - Transfer to Nosara (Nicoya peninsula)
Group transfer to Golfito airstrip (approximately 45 mins by boat), fly to San Jose (approximately 45 minutes) and then connect with a flight north-west to Nosara (approximately 40 minutes) followed by a private transfer to Lagarta Lodge (approximately 15 minutes) for a 3 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, this elegant boutique hotel is set on a hilltop overlooking the Nosara and Montana rivers, verdant subtropical vegetation and the Ostional coastline. A stay at the Lagarta Lodge is a fantastic end to your adventure and it enjoys stunning sunsets. There are 26 rooms; some with ocean view, some with partial ocean view and eleven with jungle/forest views. The rooms have large balconies or terrace. There are 2 infinity swimming pools, jacuzzi and spa. The Chirriboca restaurant and Gecko bar afford panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. Don’t forget to visit the Lodge’s own 90 acre biological reserve which is located below the hotel (steep steps down).
Overnight stay at Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge
Lagarta lodge in Nosara
Day 11 & 12 - Nosara
25 minutes from Nosara is the Ostional Pacific coastline, the world’s largest nesting ground for the Olive Ridley turtle. Between July and December at night there is the opportunity to view this primeval ritual of the turtles heaving themselves up the beach in order to lay their eggs. Nicoya is the largest peninsula in Costa Rica and interestingly is considered by the Quest network to be one of the Blue zones in the world where people commonly live active lives past the age of 100 ! What better recommendation!
Overnight stay at Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge
Nosara
Day 13 - Day of departure
Private transfer to San Jose Airport for your flight back to the UK.
Accommodation
Xandari Resort and Spa - Night 1 to 2
The Xandari Resort & Spa in Alajuela is set on a former coffee plantation, with the 40 acre reserve located only 25 minutes from the centre of San José. The 24 spacious villas and gardens have been designed and furnished with original paintings, mosaics, tapestries, stained glass and sculptures making the Xandari a truly unique experience.
The Xandari Resort & Spa in Alajuela is set on a former coffee plantation, with the 40 acre reserve located only 25 minutes from the centre of San José. Throughout the resort there are stunning views of Costa Rica's majestic Central Valley.
The 24 spacious villas and gardens have been designed and furnished with original paintings, mosaics, tapestries, stained glass and sculptures making the Xandari a truly unique experience. Each villa has a private terrace with views of the Central Valley and the mountains.
Xandari's terrace restaurant features a variety of healthy choices, from Costa Rican specialties to Mediterranean and Californian cuisines. The farm-to-table menu begins at breakfast and continues through lunch and dinner, featuring produce sourced from their own plantations using all-natural methods.
There are three swimming pools. The sunset pool has a hot tub and is a great spot to watch the fireflies at night and there are also two lap swimming pools.
A wide range of natural treatments from scrubs to massages are offered in five private, palm-roofed jalapas at the Spa Village, each featuring a hot-tub overlooking the forest and valley.
The private forest reserve with rivers, five natural waterfalls, and 2.5 miles of trails offers excellent hiking and bird-watching opportunities.
Costa Rican crafts and products are used and featured in all aspects of the resort. From the carved wood bowls, locally made furniture in the villas, the lotions and oils used at the spa, to the granola served at breakfast. This emphasis on authenticity to the culture supports the local artists, craftsmen and companies.
ACCOMMODATION
- 24 uniquely designed villas including Prima, Prima Plus, Ultra, Ultra Plus and Star Villas
AMENITIES/FACILITIES
- Restaurant with farm-to-table menus
- Bar
- Three swimming pools
- Two outdoor jacuzzis
- Spa Village
- Yoga
- TV room with internet access in main building
- Laundry service
- Wi-Fi
- Nature and birdwatching tours
- Four kilometres of scenic trails and natural waterfalls
Pacuare Lodge - Night 3 to 4
Pacuare Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge with 20 suites situated on the banks of one of the most scenic white-water wonders of the world, the Pacuare River. Thís unparalleled location, with its vibrant nature, offers a scenic backdrop to adventure, romance and wellness.
Pacuare Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge with 20 suites situated on the banks of one of the most scenic white-water wonders of the world, the Pacuare River. Thís unparalleled location, with its vibrant nature, offers a scenic backdrop to adventure, romance and wellness. Simple, and yet sophisticated, the indigenous Cabécar-inspired architecture, pristine rainforest, farm-to-table exquisite cuisine, and luxurious, well-appointed accommodations come together to offer an experience like no other.
There are no roads to Pacuare Lodge, so access is via the river. The majority of guests arrive at the lodge after rafting on one of the world’s top whitewater rivers. If you’re not comfortable rafting into the lodge, don’t worry. You can get there by land, too. Arrival by ground combines a 4x4 transportation and crossing the river on a hanging gondola that carries you above the river via a 100-metre cable running from riverbank to riverbank.
The lodge is unique; designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, with the main palm-thatched lodge overlooking the river, boasting solid teak floors and candlelit by night. The bungalows and suites offer simplistic luxury; with hardwood flooring and spacious bathrooms. The larger River View cabins have a private veranda, king sized beds with Egyptian cotton sheets and a balcony; while the Linda Vista suites and secluded Canopy Honeymoon Suite are incredibly spacious; with private plunge pools and decks with hammocks. The Canopy Honeymoon Suite even has a hanging bridge leading to an observation platform. Hot water is provided by solar power, so be prepared for a slight delay, and at night the cabins (like the main lodge) are all lit by candles.
Jawa Juü Spa offers a holistic retreat for the mind, body, and soul with a range of massage and body treatments, blending the rainforest’s natural energy with ancient healing practices.
At the open-air Nairi Awari Restaurant the ingredients used are locally sourced, organic, and of exceptional grade. The world-class menu changes with the seasons and ensures each dish is prepared with the finest and freshest products available.
Pacuare Lodge is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or family holiday, with great variety of adventurous and cultural experiences. During your stay, you can choose to partake in a range of on-site activities such as a canopy tour, tropical canyoning tour, bird-watching, Cabécar indigenous hike, ancient trail and hidden waterfall hike, sustainability tour, rural experience and 'the loop' hike.
ACCOMMODATION
- 20 Suites and Villas. All suites and villas are simple, refined, and elegant. Each guest room has expansive open areas to better experience the natural ambiance, and the interior living spaces are screened and protected from the elements.
FACILITIES/ACTIVITIES
- Infinity pool
- Jawa Juü Spa
- Nairi Awari Restaurant
- Wine Cellar
- Electric golf carts
- Wi-fi throughout the lodge and in rooms via fiber optic cable
- Brewery
- Laundry service (additional cost)
- Pacuare Canopy Adventure Experience
- Tropical Canyoning Experience
- Birdwatching at Dawn Experience
- Ditsö Cultural Experience
- Emerald Rainforest & Waterfall Experience
- Ríos Waterfall Experience
- Cábecar Indigenous Experience
- Bajos del Tigre Rural Experience
- Nocturnal Experience
- Sustainability Experience
- Hammock Experience
- Jaguar Project Presentation
Nayara Gardens - Night 5 to 6
Nayara Gardens is an elegant hotel with beautifully decorated casitas and suites and incredible views of the majestic Arenal volcano. Paths wind through lush gardens filled with tropical flowers to a pool with a swim-up bar and attractive open-sided restaurant above.
Set within the larger Nayara Resort, where you can roam between a further two sister hotels, Nayara Tented Camp and Nayara Springs, Nayara Gardens is an elegant hotel with beautifully decorated casitas and suites and incredible views of the majestic Arenal volcano. Paths wind through lush gardens filled with tropical flowers to a pool with a swim-up bar and attractive open-sided restaurant above.
Each of the Casitas and Villas are free-standing bungalows and have been designed to provide the utmost in comfort and style while maintaining a close connection with the natural surroundings, nestled in lush tropical gardens. Each casita and villa boasts canopied beds, a large deck with a plunge pool and hammock and has private twin outdoor showers.
Nayara Gardens has an outdoor swimming pool which features a swim-up bar (the Kali Kali Pool Bar) where guests can order cocktails and snacks while enjoying unobstructed views of the Arenal Volcano on clear days.
At the Nayara Spa, each treatment pavilion overlooks the ravine and includes a Jacuzzi and outdoor shower. In addition to classic massages and facials, treatments include scrubs and wraps with organic coffee, volcanic mud, and chocolate clay.
Dining options at Nayara Gardens include the open-sided La Terraza restaurant serving a mix of Costa Rican and international dishes, Asia Luna mixes Peruvian and Asian flavours and Nostalgia, a beautiful wine and tapas bar which also offers tasting menus matched with Latin American wines.
This central region of Costa Rica is one of the world’s most topographically diverse and plays host to a range of exciting outdoor activities such as white water rafting, trekking, horseback riding, hot springs, canyoning, kayaking, zip lining and canopy tours.
The Arenal area is a bird watcher's paradise. Few places in the world can boast of having so many species of birds and Costa Rica has identified over 850! Popular birds to spot in Nayara’s bird-watching tour at dawn include toucans, hummingbirds, trogons, and hawks.
ACCOMMODATION
- Fifty Casitas and Villas each with canopied beds, a large deck with a plunge pool and hammock and private outdoor showers
FACILITIES/AMENITIES
- Wine & Small Bites Bar
- La Terraza Restaurant
- Asia Luna Fusion Restaurant
- Wine pairing experiences
- Award-winning full-service spa with outdoor treatment areas
- Daily Yoga sessions
- Pool
- Cooking classes
- Adventurous and ecological activities
- Private tour guides and exclusive experiences
- Complimentary WiFi
Playa Cativo Lodge - Night 7 to 9
Nestled between a tropical rainforest and a one-mile private beach, this luxury eco-lodge is a hidden slice of paradise in one of Costa Rica’s most overlooked regions. Surrounded by Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, named “the most biologically intense region on earth” by National Geographic, the resort is only accessible by boat and is encompassed within 1,000-acre of Private Nature Reserve in Golfo Dulce amidst Piedras Blancas National Park.
Nestled between a tropical rainforest and a one-mile private beach, this luxury eco-lodge is a hidden slice of paradise in one of Costa Rica’s most overlooked regions. Surrounded by Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, named “the most biologically intense region on earth” by National Geographic, the resort is only accessible by boat and is encompassed within 1,000-acre of Private Nature Reserve in Golfo Dulce amidst Piedras Blancas National Park.
There are 18 rooms in total, including 16 spacious “casitas” tucked away throughout the property, each with a private wraparound deck and plunge pool. Additional ocean view guest rooms are available on the top floors of the main lodge, where the restaurant and bar are also located. All the rooms are made from reclaimed wood and are tastefully decorated with local Costa Rican artwork and artisanal tile, creating a real sense of place.
There is a freshwater outdoor swimming pool, library and organic farm. The beautiful and lush gardens are abundant with butterflies, birds, small mammals and exotic plants.
The culinary program is overseen by Chef Eduard Alonso Méndez, a native Costa Rican who was trained in Madrid. An organic on-site farm supplies over 35% of the ingredients used at El Gavilán, the hotel’s acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant, which offers an a la carte menu accompanied by a premium wine selection. Most of the remaining ingredients sourced from nearby communities of Golfito, Puerto Jimenez, and the Central Valley of Costa Rica. That means every dish, from the seasonal produce to local seafood, is incredibly fresh.
There are over a dozen nature-based excursions offered at Playa Cativo. They range from day trips that require boat transfers—including hiking in Corcovado National Park, surfing in Matapalo, and deep sea fishing charters—to on-site hikes and tours that explore the hotel’s 1,000-acre private nature reserve and Golfo Dulce. There are outdoor yoga classes taught outside on the beachside pavilion beneath the rainforest canopy twice per day and complimentary for all guests. There are also a range of treatments and healing modalities on offer at The Lotus Spa, from classic massages and facials to Reiki energy work and sound baths.
At Playa Cativo, conservation and community are at the core of their identity. They have a deep responsibility to protect and support the natural ecosystem, as well as a desire to give back to the people of Golfo Dulce. To date, Playa Cativo has helped fund Turtle nesting projects, Golfito street scope improvements, and a coral protection and restoration project.
ACCOMMODATION
18 rooms including Deluxe Ocean View, Premium Ocean View, Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View and Luxury Casita with plunge pool.
FACILITIES/AMENITIES
- El Gavilán farm-to-table restauarant
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Lotus Spa
- Outdoor Yoga classes
- A range of nature-based activities and excursions can be arranged by the lodge
Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge - Night 10 to 12
The Boutique Lagarta Lodge hotel in Nosara, on the undeveloped Nicoya Peninsula, enjoys an idyllic location overlooking two rivers, expansive sandy beaches, and forests on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. The eco-lodge borders a significant nature reserve.
The Boutique Lagarta Lodge hotel in Nosara, on the undeveloped Nicoya Peninsula, enjoys an idyllic location overlooking two rivers, expansive sandy beaches, and forests on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. The eco-lodge borders a significant nature reserve.
The property comprises 36 spacious suites each unique in their location and design and with their own veranda or terrace. A harmonious colour scheme, teak furniture, abstract and nature-inspired art, sustainability, and a connection to nature are reflected in the 10 suites and 26 junior suites. Virtually all bathrooms offer fantastic views of the outdoors. The bathrooms in the Panorama and Jungle Suites vary in their interior design. The understated elegance and connection to nature are reflected in the absence of televisions in the rooms. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and fans.
Meals are served at the al-fresco Chirriboca restaurant which focuses on local, organically grown produce, and the Gecko Lounge is perfect for a sundowner. Wherever you are in the hotel you will be treated to a breathtaking view.
This is an ideal place to spend relaxing and enjoying the scenic setting and facilities. There are two infinity pools, a pool with a wet bar, a children’s pool, and a jacuzzi, as well as a spa and yoga studio.
There are several beautiful beaches nearby which you can reach on foot or using the complimentary shuttle service. Playa Pelada, a sheltered bay with calm waters, is the closest and a 15-minute walk away. To the south is Playa Guiones, an impressive 7km long and a popular spot for surfing, and to the north is Playa Ostional, a nesting ground for olive ridley sea turtles. If you’re lucky, your stay may coincide with an ‘arribada’ when thousands of turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the beach.
Those feeling more active can explore the adjacent nature reserve, a unique subtropical dry forest, on their own or in the company of a naturalist guide. The walk takes two hours and mornings in particular offer good wildlife-spotting opportunities: howler monkeys, anteaters, coatis, raccoons, iguanas, butterflies, insects, and many species of birds. Other activities such as boat trips on the Rio Nosara and surf lessons can also be booked.
Since its reopening in 2017, Lagarta Lodge has gained worldwide recognition as one of the finest luxury hotels in Costa Rica. It was voted one of the best resorts in Central America by travelers from around the globe in the 2023 Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards. In the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards, it was even voted the third-best resort in Central and South America by UK travelers. It is also featured in the 2024 National Geographic Traveller (UK)
ACCOMMODATION
- 36 Suites - 7 x Flor Blanca Suites, 8 x Jungle Suites, 10 x Motmot and 11 x Panorama Suites
The Jungle Suites offer guests an idyllic view of unspoiled nature. The Panorama Suites boast magnificent panoramic views, including ocean views and, in some cases, additional river views. The beautiful, exclusive Flor Blanca Suites offer breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding area. The Motmot Suites, situated at the highest point of the resort, offer a majestic view across the jungle, river, and all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Their size and the inclusion of a second bedroom make them particularly suitable for families.
FEATURES/AMENITIES
- Al-fresco Chirriboca Restaurant
- Gecko Lounge
- Wine Cellar
- Two infinity pools
- Spa and Yoga studio
- Souvenir shop
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Mirador Observation Tower
- Nature Reserve
- Close to several beautiful beaches including Playa Pelada and Playa Guiones
- The Ostional coastline (25 minutes from Nosara) is the world’s largest nesting ground for the Olive Ridley turtle between July and December
Route Map
Best time to go
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Time Difference
GMT - 6 hours
Currency
Colon
Language
Spanish
Average flight times
11 hours 35 minutes BA direct flight to San Jose from London Gatwick
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