Costa Rica In Style

Suggested Itinerary

Overview

Costa Rica combines an enviable mix of spectacular nature, active pursuits and luxury eco-lodge accommodation. One of the smallest countries in Latin America, it makes up for its small size in rich biodiversity and some of the most pristine landscapes on earth. Beginning in San José, the country’s capital city, your journey takes you first into the magical beauty of the southern part of Costa Rica. On the way to your luxurious oceanside lodge in Piedras Blanca National Park, learn ...

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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Stay in some of the best ecolodges and properties in Costa Rica
  • Search out a staggering diversity of birds and mammals deep in the rainforest
  • Try your hand at surfing, abseiling and white-water rafting
  • Soak in the hot springs of an active volcano
  • Meet the indigenous Cabecar community of the Pacuare River
  • Spend a few days relaxing on the Pacific Coast’s Nosara Beach

Suggested Itinerary

This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.

EXPAND ALL ITINERARY DAYS
COLLAPSE ALL ITINERARY DAYS

DAY 1: SAN JOSE - ALAJUELA

DAY 1: SAN JOSE - ALAJUELA

You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel in Alajuela, the second largest province in Costa Rica, known as the “City of Mangos”. Your hotel for the night is Xandari Resort & Spa, a tropical paradise of individually designed villas nestled on a plantation overlooking the beautiful Central Valley of Costa Rica. Soak up the fantastic views from your terrace, the restaurant or the infinity pool. You can spend this evening being pampered at the spa or walking through the hotel’s scenic nature trails and waterfalls.

Xandari Resort & Spa

DAY 2: ALAJUELA - PUERTO JIMENEZ - PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK

DAY 2: ALAJUELA - PUERTO JIMENEZ - PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK

Breakfast will be served at the hotel before you are transferred to the airport for a flight to Puerto Jiménez in the southern part of the country. You will then enjoy two exciting activities, a gold tour and sugar mill tour. Begin with a visit to a small ranch, where Don Juan exhibits some historic tools and relics before he brings you to the river where he hunts for gold. Try catching gold using the artisanal technique with a traditional catcher and canoe. Then tour a traditional sugar mill where sugar cane candy is produced using oxen or horses. Take part in the whole process from cutting sugar cane to working the sugar mill and making delicious desserts. This afternoon, you will take a boat from Puerto Jiménez dock to Playa Cativo Eco Lodge in Piedras Blancas National Park.

Playa Cativo Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3: PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK

DAY 3: PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK

The South Pacific coast boasts incredible biodiversity, striking surroundings, exotic lodges and outstanding activities. Over the next two days you will make use of the fantastic activities of Playa Cativo Eco Lodge, set within 1,000 acres of private tropical rainforest reserve and nestled in the tranquil waters of Golfo Dulce. Luxury rooms, overlooking the rainforest or ocean, are constructed from reclaimed hardwood and tile works have been crafted by local artisans. Activities include rainforest hikes, kayaking at Golfo Dulce, yoga or snorkelling.

Playa Cativo Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4: PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK

DAY 4: PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK

Another day at leisure to enjoy this fantastic and romantic location and the holistic activities at the lodge.

Playa Cativo Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5: PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK - SAN JOSE - PACUARE LODGE

DAY 5: PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK - SAN JOSE - PACUARE LODGE

Following a boat ride to Golfito, you will fly back to San José and transfer by road to the magical jungle hideaway of Pacuare Lodge. Perched on the banks of the Pacuare River, the lodge sits beside a river that National Geographic listed as one of the world's top ten. Surrounded by luxuriant rainforest, this evening sees you soaking up this natural beauty and tranquillity. The Pacuare River begins at about two thousand metres in the Talamanca Mountain Range and empties into the Atlantic Ocean. The rainforest surrounding the river is home to the indigenous Cabecar community, as well as an abundance of flora and fauna. The powerful waters and topography of the river make this a dream area for adventure sports surrounded by the beauty of deep green forests, waterfalls and natural pools.

Pacuare Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: SIQUIRRES

DAY 6: SIQUIRRES

Waking up to bird song and the soothing sounds of the river, today sees you heading out on an adventure-packed excursion. A chance to truly appreciate the magnificent scenery and breathtaking views that make up part of the largest protected landscape in Central America, you'll hike, climb and abseil amongst the treetops, waterfalls and nearby canyons. There is also the option to go on a hike to a nearby indigenous Cabecar community or go on a sustainability tour to learn about the lodges' recycling program and efforts to protect endangered felines.

Pacuare Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7: SIQUIRRES - ALAJUELA

DAY 7: SIQUIRRES - ALAJUELA

The Pacuare River offers up some of the finest white-water rafting in Latin America; coursing its way through a pristine wilderness of dense vegetation and steep gorges that provides shelter to jaguars, ocelots, monkeys and sloths. After enjoying a morning's rafting excursion, you'll then transfer on to your next hotel, set amongst the rural community of Bajos del Toro, in the shadow of the Poas Volcano.

El Silencio
Breakfast

DAY 8: BAJOS DEL TORO

DAY 8: BAJOS DEL TORO

Today begins with a relaxing hike on one of the trails close to the hotel. Walk through beautiful cloud forest to reach the magical Hummingbird Garden. Then take a stroll through the rural community with rich traditions, unsurpassed landscapes, and intriguing flora. A highlight is Don Martin Porras's private garden. He will show you around his collection of over 400 orchid species, with some so small you need a magnifying glass to fully appreciate them. Finish the day at Doña Olga's Pulpería where you can palm fresh tortillas and buy local pastries.

El Silencio
Breakfast

DAY 9: BAJOS DEL TORO - LA FORTUNA

DAY 9: BAJOS DEL TORO - LA FORTUNA

Following breakfast, you will be transferred to La Fortuna, the base from which to explore the magnificent Arenal Volcano and national park. Naturally heated thermal springs originate from its depth, so several places in the area offer the chance to be surrounded by nature and waterfalls while soaking and relaxing in the mineral waters. Spend tonight at Tabacon Hotel & Thermal Resort for unlimited access to the hot springs here, as well as the private guest, adult-only section of the springs. Tabacon is a five-star, carbon-neutral resort located in Costa Rica's luscious northern region, at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano. In addition to soaking in the hot springs, you can enjoy a tempting treatment at the spa.

Tabacon Resort & Spa
Breakfast

DAY 10: ARENAL - RIO CELESTE

DAY 10: ARENAL - RIO CELESTE

Two crystalline streams come together to form the blue waters of the heavenly Rio Celeste, your next destination. Tinted by a combination of sulphur and calcium carbonate produced by the Tenorio Volcano, the river's length is scattered with hot springs, volcanic fumaroles and a dazzling array of flora and fauna. Home to tapir and the rarely seen puma, you'll take a short trek from the hotel up to the majestic setting of a unique waterfall, whose characteristics so typify the natural beauty of the area. Return to Rio Celeste Hideaway and its unique, luxurious casitas separated from each other by exuberant tropical landscaping.

Rio Celeste Hideaway
Breakfast

DAY 11: RIO CELESTE - PLAYA GUIONES

DAY 11: RIO CELESTE - PLAYA GUIONES

After breakfast this morning you'll be transferred on to your beach hotel on Playa Guiones, lying close to the Tico settlement of Nosara. A sweeping arc of white sand, the Nosara Beach runs for some seven kilometres, providing an ideal spot to enjoy some surfing or partake in a number of other optional activities that include horse riding, volleyball, kayaking, zip-lining and paddle-boarding.

Harmony Hotel
Breakfast

DAY 12: PLAYA GUIONES

DAY 12: PLAYA GUIONES

The following days have been set aside to make the most of this tranquil setting; relaxing on the beach or enjoying the wealth of more adventurous activities on offer.

Harmony Hotel
Breakfast

DAY 13: PLAYA GUIONES

DAY 13: PLAYA GUIONES

A day at leisure at your beach hotel.

Harmony Hotel
Breakfast

DAY 14: PLAYA GUIONES

DAY 14: PLAYA GUIONES

A day at leisure at your beach hotel.

Harmony Hotel
Breakfast

DAY 15: PLAYA GUIONES - SAN JOSE

DAY 15: PLAYA GUIONES - SAN JOSE

This morning transfer to Nosara airport and fly on to San José to catch your return flight home.

Breakfast

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.

GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED

15 days from £6,275

MEALS

As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.

TRANSPORT

Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers.

ENTRANCE FEES

Tours and admission fees, including tickets specified in the itinerary.

EXPERT TEAM

Licensed English-speaking guides and a support team available 24/7.

ACCOMMODATION

As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.

WILD MILES

This tour will earn you 10854 Wild Miles

ACCOMMODATION

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Wild Miles Club

When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:

Blue More than 10,000 points 2.5% discount
Bronze More than 30,000 points 5% discount
Silver More than 45,000 points 7.5% discount
Gold More than 60,000 points 10% discount

This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.

Positive Impact of this Trip

Tree
Ten trees are planted per passenger on this trip
Community
Supports Wild Frontiers Foundation community projects
Wind Turbine
A contribution to renewable energy projects

WHEN TO GO

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

WHY WILD FRONTIERS?

Meet the expert, Richard

Richard is our Latin America expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.

Speak to Richard by calling
1(833) 200-4640

Famous, yes. Well-travelled, yes. Yet Costa Rica continues to hide eco-gems, off-path mountain lodges set in private nature reserves that share biodiversity with divine reverence.

OTHER ITINERARIES IN COSTA RICA