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Classic Costa Rica
Overview
Introduction
Costa Rica was the first country we visited when we started our programme to Latin America in 1995. In fact we were the first to feature Costa Rica as an independent fly-drive destination and many of our travellers still explore this pocket-book sized country in a hire car, allowing us to plan and pre-book their route. We appreciate others prefer to let someone else do the driving so we have developed a range of itineraries, based on private transfers and internal flights. The ‘Classic Costa Rica’ itinerary is our most popular, represents excellent value for money and allows for four nights beachfront relaxation at the end. It’s what Costa Rica packs into 19,700 square miles (approximately the size of Denmark) which is astounding. This tiny country of inland canals, rainforest, cloud forest, volcanoes and beaches harbours stunning flora, including 8,000 species of orchid and an amazing selection of wildlife including turtles, macaws, caiman, basilisks, monkeys, armadillos and sloths. 25% of the country is designated as national park or protected area. Costa Rica also boasts 78 rivers, of which the Pacuare is a river rafter’s dream.
Itinerary includes:
- Return International flights (Economy) from London Heathrow to San Jose International Airport
- Private transfers (Land & Boat)
- Guided tours (as detailed in the agenda)
- 1 night at Bougainvillea Hotel, San Jose (B&B)
- 2 nights at Pachira Lodge, Tortuguero National Park (Full Board)
- 3 nights at Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort, Arenal (B&B)
- 2 nights at Fondavela Mountain Hotel, Monteverde (B&B)
- 4 nights at Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas (B&B)
Agenda
Day 1 - Day of arrival - San Jose
Arrival at San Jose international airport.
On arrival, private transfer (approximately 40 minutes) to your hotel.
Overnight at Bougainvillea Hotel in San Jose.
Bougainvillea Hotel, San Jose
Day 2 - Transfer to Tortuguero
After breakfast, a group transfer (depart around 06:30) north to Guapiles (breakfast stop) in the heart of Costa Rica’s banana growing region in the Limon district and the gateway between the Caribbean coast and the central highlands. From Guapiles, the transfer continues by land across the banana plantations to the small pier where you will board the boat and start the journey (1.5 hours approx.) through exciting mangroves and waterways.
A short boat ride of 5 minutes to the tiny village of Tortuguero and to Tortuguero beach where, on moonlit nights in July to September, you can watch the Green Turtles labour their way up the beach in order to lay their eggs - a memorable experience.
Overnight at Pachira Lodge in Tortuguero National Park.
Tortuguero
Day 3 - Tortuguero (guided tours)
Before breakfast, depart for an early morning (05:30) group guided wildlife canal boat trip and begin your adventure in this enchanting paradise as we navigate through beautiful rivers, canals and lagoons. You’ll have the chance to observe a wide range of animals including monkeys, birds, mammals and reptiles.
After breakfast, you’ll have a guided nature walk to the lodge private trails discovering an array of wildlife, including moths, crickets, frogs and bats. In the afternoon, embark on another boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero.
Overnight at Pachira Lodge in Tortuguero National Park.
River otters, Tortuguero
Day 4 - Transfer to Arenal
After breakfast a boat and land transfer (approximately 4 hours 30 minutes) including lunch en route to Arenal experiencing Costa Rica’s countryside with views of the extensive pineapple plantation fields.
To see the perfect cone of the Arenal volcano rising at 1,670 metres from the surrounding tropical rainforest and lake below is a special experience. Howler monkeys, macaws and brilliant butterflies flourish among the heliconias and cascading waterfalls.
Overnight at Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort
Arenal
Day 5 - Private half day guided tour to Arenal hanging bridges
The private half day guided tour of the Arenal Hanging Bridges is yet another highlight to be remembered. The forest canopy is a world apart from what we are used to seeing in tropical rainforests and these suspension bridges (6 in total) which span the forest canopy, make it possible to view exceptionally beautiful plants and animals (for instance sloths and howler monkeys) which live in the canopy.
Here you are often 50 metres above the ground. Taking full advantage of the unique habitat there are many activities in and around Arenal from white water rafting to zip lining rides which can be booked locally.
Overnight at Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort
Hanging bridges, Arenal National Park
Day 6 - Day at leisure
There are a number of activities available in Arenal such as zip lining, treks and nature walks.
Overnight at Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort
Zip-lining, Arenal
Day 7 - Transfer to Monteverde
After breakfast, private transfer (approximately 4 hours) including a lake crossing from Arenal to Monteverde. You will board the boat across the scenic Arenal Lake, one of Costa Rica's largest man-made reservoirs.
Created in 1979, the lake plays a vital role in the country's hydroelectric system, contributing to the production of clean that helps Costa Rica generate approximately 97% of its electricity from energy renewable sources. This crossing is one of the most scenic transfers of your holiday. Last section of the journey includes a private land transfer onward to Monteverde and Santa Elena Village. Please note: the crossing time is approx. 25 minutes - important to mention there are no facilities on board. It's a simple journey though relaxing, peaceful and scenic with views of Arenal Volcano. Life jackets are provided to wear for the journey.
Overnight at Fondavela Mountain Hotel in Monteverde.
Arenal Lake
Day 8 - Monteverde - Private half day guided tour to the reserve
At 1400 metres above sea level the Monteverde cloud forest is swept by mists heavily laden with moisture which nourishes the unique environment where a multitude of species flourish. Founded by American Quakers in the 1950’s - The Cloud Forest Reserve was established in 1972 and now covers 35,089 acres.
The forest harbours the greatest number (420) of orchids in one place in the world. There are six ecological zones, 90% of which are virgin forest. The biodiversity is enormous, with 2,500 plant species, 100 species of mammals, 400 bird species and 120 reptilian and amphibian species. You might even catch a glimpse of divinity in the form of the resplendent Quetzal. After breakfast there is a private half day guided tour to the reserve and in the afternoon, you are free to explore further or book one of the many activities that are available in the area.
Overnight at Fondavela Mountain Hotel in Monteverde.
Quetzal bird, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
Day 9 - Transfer to Nicoya Peninsula
Your private transfer from Monteverde to the southern Nicoya Peninsula will take approximately five hours, including a scenic ferry crossing across the Gulf of Nicoya. As you descend the Pacific slopes of the Monteverde mountains, you will be treated to magnificent panoramic views of the gulf and its many islands.
Among them is the iconic San Lucas Island, once home to Costa Rica's most notorious maximum-security prison and today a protected national wildlife refuge. The combination of mountain landscapes, coastal scenery, and the relaxing ferry ride makes this one of the most enjoyable transfer days of your holiday. Please note the tide can be strong in the area so please check before swimming.
Overnight at Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas, Nicoya Peninsula
Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas, Nicoya Peninsula
Day 10 - Private half day guided tour Curú Biological Wildlife Reserve
This is one of the highlights of the Nicoya Peninsula, Curú is privately owned and part of a large farm that combines sustainable agriculture and forest management with the protection of wildlife and nature. Curú protects tropical dry forest, humid forest, mangroves, estuaries, pristine beaches, coral reefs, and coastal habitats, making it one of the most biologically diverse areas on the Nicoya Peninsula.
The refuge is home to 232 bird species, 78 mammal species, 87 reptile species, and more than 500 plant species. Curú played an important role in the successful reintroduction of the endangered Scarlet Macaw to the Nicoya Peninsula
Overnight at Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas, Nicoya Peninsula
Scarlet Macaw, Nicoya Peninsula
Day 11 & 12 - Days at leisure on Nicoya peninsula
The area has much to offer and activities can all be booked locally. The Nicoya Peninsula on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is 80 miles long and is known for its magnificent beaches and long dry season. Water sports and wellness are popular activities here.
There are many hidden beaches to explore. Kayaking, boating and surfing are all activities to be sampled. It is possible to extend your itinerary and head further north to Playa Bejuco and Nosara. The Ostional coastline is the world’s largest nesting ground for the Olive Ridley turtle between July and December. Or alternatively - just relax!
Overnight at Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas, Nicoya Peninsula
Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Day 13 - Day of departure
After breakfast you will have a private transfer to San Jose airport (approximately 5 hours including a ferry crossing) for your return flight back to the UK.
Accommodation
Bougainvillea Hotel - Night 1 to 1
Surrounded by 10 acres of lush tropical gardens, Hotel Bougainvillea is just 30 minutes from San Jose yet located in a charming, peaceful area called Santo Domingo de Heredia. This region has kept its rural charm, with colonial adobe houses and beautiful churches.
Surrounded by 10 acres of lush tropical gardens, Hotel Bougainvillea is just 30 minutes from San Jose yet located in a charming, peaceful area called Santo Domingo de Heredia. This region has kept its rural charm, with colonial adobe houses and beautiful churches.
Hotel Bougainvillea has the charm of a family-owned and operated hotel. Every detail of the hotel and restaurant is personally supervised by owner Hans van der Wielen, who brought his experience and style when he came to Costa Rica in 1961. A real value for families, honeymooners or special interest groups alike, the hotels homely feeling and friendly staff make this a wonderful way to begin your Costa Rica holiday.
All rooms have a private balcony offering stunning views and incrdeible sunsets, a flat-screen TV, telephone, safety deposit box, Wi-Fi, and ceiling fan. Guests can choose between Mountain or Garden views with views towards the Central Valley and the surrounding mountains or the beautiful colourful gardens. These gardens are award-winning as a showcase of the Central Valley’s biodiversity, featuring important crops from Costa Rica that have historically impacted development, a variety of different kinds of bromeliads, and of course the signature flower of the hotel, the bougainvilleas. There are also several small ponds where the work of preserving endangered frog species, such as Forreri’s Leopard frog, the Blue-sided tree frog, and the Brilliant forest frog.
The gourmet Vitrales Restaurant features both traditional Costa Rican and international cuisine with lovely views of the gardens. Guests can make use of the outdoor swimming pool, the sauna, fitness centre and two tennis courts.
Costa Rica is a favourite destination for nature lovers from all over the world. Its diverse bird population is one of its main attractions. More than 850 species of birds have been identified so far. The hotel's garden is particularly attractive to birds because of its abundance of trees, flowers and shrubs. Frequently spotted birds included, blue crowned motmots, palm tanagers, hummingbirds, tropical kingbirds and boat-billed flycatchers.
ACCOMMODATION
- 81 rooms including 77 Standard Rooms and 4 Junior Suites
FACILITIES/AMENITIES
- 10 acres of botanical gardens
- Restaurant and Bar
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Tennis courts
- Gym
- Complimentary WiFi
- Free parking
Pachira Lodge - Night 2 to 3
Pachira Lodge is located only 5 minutes away from the Tortuguero National Park. Surrounded by a network of scenic canals, this is considered one of the most exotic regions of the world, characterised by its rich flora and fauna. The lodge is built on a 14 hectare private reserve – no roads, just waterways so access to the hotel is only by boat or air which adds to the ambience.
Pachira Lodge is located only 5 minutes away from the Tortuguero National Park. Surrounded by a network of scenic canals, this is considered one of the most exotic regions of the world, characterised by its rich flora and fauna. The lodge is built on a 14 hectare private reserve – no roads, just waterways so access to the hotel is only by boat or air which adds to the ambience. Pachira was built to blend in with the surroundings and have minimal impact on the rainforest and those who live here.
Surrounded by lush vegetation, the rustic, comfortable rooms offer a truly immersive experience in nature. The rooms are naturally ventilated with silk screens and fans, allowing for a constant flow of fresh air, eliminating the need for air conditioning. There are no televisons in the rooms as guests have the sights and sounds of nature on their doorstep! Local and international meals are served in the restaurant, using fresh, local and organic ingredients of the highest quality for a buffet-style meal with stunning views of nature.
One of the highlights of staying here is that it is adjacent to one of the largest green sea turtle nesting sites, and from July to October there are tours each night down to the beach to watch adults laying their eggs or hatchlings heading for the ocean.
The turtle-shaped pool is ideal for cooling off and sunbathing after exploring the canals of Tortuguero National Park and the spa offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature while pampering your body and mind with a range of massage and body treatments. There is also a private dock to watch the Caribbean sunrise or enjoy a good book in the comfortable, relaxing hammocks.
Navigate the canals of Tortuguero National Park, explore the wildlife and scenery of the jungle on private trails and discover the beautiful corners of the town of Tortuguero. Each tour is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and you will be accompanied at all times by our local guides.
ACCOMMODATION
- 88 standard rooms and 6 bungalows
FACILITIES/AMENITIES
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- 24 hour self-service coffee
- Wi-Fi in common areas
- Tortuguero village visit
- Tour of green turtle conservation museum
- Guided walks through lodge trails
- Tortuguero canal tour
- Sea turtle nesting tour (seasonal)
- Canal tour at dawn
- Kayak tour
- Canopy tour
- Fishing trips
Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort - Night 4 to 6
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort is one of the top-rated hotels in La Fortuna for relaxation and comfort. The resort features a variety of beautifully appointed suites nestled within lush tropical rainforest.
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort is one of the top-rated hotels in La Fortuna for relaxation and comfort. The resort features a variety of beautifully appointed suites nestled within lush tropical rainforest. The natural hot springs pools and ponds are fed by mineral-rich thermal waters known for their therapeutic properties.
Every suite is more than just a room, it’s your personal retreat surrounded by nature. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the suites offer the ideal balance of comfort and tropical charm. Wake up to stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, unwind in beautifully designed spaces, and enjoy access to natural hot springs and tranquil mineral ponds. From romantic escapes to family holidays, each suite type is tailored to your travel style.
Hidden deep within the tropical forest, the Hot Springs ponds offer a quiet and intimate retreat. Small natural-style thermal ponds are tucked among the trees, creating a peaceful space where nature takes centre stage.
The resort offers a varied array of restaurants and dining experiences. Start the day with an energising breakfast at La Saca to set you up for the adventures of the day. Relax by the pool with snacks, sushi and cocktails and end the day with an elegant and romantic meal, or a casual evening at the oven-fired pizza restaurant.
The Riverside Spa offers a peaceful wellness experience surrounded by the sights and sounds of the tropical forest. Nestled among the trees and beside a gently flowing river, this tranquil space invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. Treatment cabanas are open to the natural environment, allowing you to relax while listening to the river, the birds, and the soft movement of the forest around you.
ACCOMMODATION
- Chato Suites, Premium Suites, Superior Suites, Junior Suites and Luxury Villas
AMENITIES/FACILITIES
- Hot Spring Ponds
- Hot Spring Pool area
- Riverside Spa
- La Saca Restaurant - serving breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Ohashi Sushi
- Alambique Pizzeria
- Room service
- Laundry service (payable locally)
- Activities/ Tours include - Ziplining, whitewater rafting, bird watching and canyoning (payable locally)
Fondavela Mountain Hotel - Night 7 to 8
The rooms all have hot water and showers. The main restaurant specialises in Costa Rican cuisine and the ingredients come straight from their organic garden.
The rooms all have hot water and showers. The main restaurant specialises in Costa Rican cuisine and the ingredients come straight from their organic garden. There is also a smaller more intimate restaurant (best booked in advance) and an indoor pool and two Jacuzzis.
The grounds of the Fondavela Mountain Hotel contain many high avocado trees, a favourite of the Quetzal.
Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas - Night 9 to 12
Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas is located 3km south of Tambor village, a 40 minute drive from the ferry terminal. This is an attractive, romantic and remote beachfront resort.
Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas is located 3km south of Tambor village, a 40 minute drive from the ferry terminal. This is an attractive, romantic and remote beachfront resort.
The extensive facilities include a swimming pool, nine-hole golf course, two floodlit tennis courts and stables. It has a variety of beachfront rooms, different suites and large villas with air-conditioning, fans, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe deposit box, large showers and picture window balconies. Some rooms do not have an ocean view. Lovely spot and great value.
Route Map
Best time to go
- JAN
- FEB
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- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
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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Average temperature
Average rainfall
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