Costa Rica Itinerary

You’ll be up early, thanks to the jet lag and the chorus of very noisy birds, ready to begin Phase One of your adventure. You’ll head off to explore the stunning volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs of the Arenal Volcano National Park, all easily accessed from La Fortuna, where you’ll stay for your second night.

La Fortuna is a charming town, dominated by the towering Arenal Volcano that provides the dramatic backdrop for numerous hikes and adventures. Your first stop will be a beautiful waterfall, where you’ll have the chance to swim in a crystal-clear jungle swimming hole, complete with a thrilling Tarzan swing. Afterward, you’ll head toward the volcano for a hearty two-hour hike (with a gentle incline) to explore old lava beds and catch breath-taking views of Lake Arenal below.

After a day full of adventure, you’ll return to La Fortuna to freshen up before enjoying a delicious supper, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Get ready for a full day of adrenaline as you sign up for the thrilling zip wire challenge.  This is your chance to soar through the sky, high above the cloud forest, feeling the wind rush past you as you zip from platform to platform. The views are nothing short of spectacular as you glide through the treetops, looking out over the misty landscape below.

For the daring, you’ll be encouraged to adopt the "Superman pose" and stretch out with your arms in front, as if you’re flying. If that wasn’t enough, you’ll also have the option to try the Tarzan swing - a heart-pounding experience that will have you swinging through the forest like a true adventurer. It’s an experience that will get your heart pumping, but don't worry, all these activities are optional for those who prefer to take a more relaxed approach.

It’s an incredible opportunity to challenge yourself and experience the cloud forest from a whole new perspective, all while having fun and feeling the rush of adventure.

In the morning, you’ll leave Monteverde and head down to the Nicoya Peninsula. After stopping for lunch, you’ll catch the ferry and then drive out to find Hacienda Ario - a 4,700-acre family-owned coastal ranch on the Pacific Coast. This stunning property is home to mountains in primary forest, fertile river valleys, rolling hills, and mangrove forests along a 3.5 km stretch of pristine, untouched beaches. It’s a truly breath-taking place, made possible by the vision of Nathaniel Grew Parkinson, who purchased the ranch in 1973 with the goal of preserving the land through conscientious, responsible, and sustainable stewardship for future generations.

Mr. Grew’s relentless desire to transform the ranch into an "educational campground" for students, scientists, families, and individuals inspired his daughter, Caroline, and her husband, Tucker, to start Cirenas (Center for Investigation of Social and Natural Resources) in 2008, which continues to carry out this mission today.

The result is a stunning lodge, from which you’ll have the chance to explore and contribute to their projects, which vary depending on when you visit. In May, you’ll help prepare the turtle hatchery for the upcoming season of Olive Ridley, Black Turtle, Hawksbill, and Leatherback turtles who return each year to nest on this beach. You’ll also contribute to their permaculture projects, which aim to make the ranch self-sufficient.

Upon arrival, you’ll take a gentle walk around the ranch to get your bearings before enjoying a delicious supper, reflecting on the beauty and purpose of this incredible place.

You’ll spend the morning at Cirenas, where you can either complete your ongoing projects or head out on a hike to further explore the ranch and its stunning landscapes. Afterward, you’ll transfer to Santa Teresa, a cool, laid-back town known for its hipster vibe, where beautiful people gather to embrace yoga, healthy living, and surfing. 

To fully immerse yourself in the beach vibe, you’ll be staying at Jakera, a charming guesthouse run by your host Chris and his family. You’ll arrive in time for lunch, giving you plenty of time to explore the town, take a refreshing swim, and simply unwind on the beach.

Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a delicious supper before heading to a salsa dance class at Jakera, where you can embrace the rhythm of the local culture. 

You’ll begin the day early, eager for an unforgettable adventure as you set off on a stunning 12-kilometre hike that will take you through some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and untouched landscapes. The trek starts at the Tango Mar waterfall, where you’ll be surrounded by lush forest and the sound of rushing water, setting the tone for the day ahead.

As you hike, you’ll make your way through dense jungle and along pristine, deserted beaches, with each step offering a new view more breath-taking than the last. You’ll pass by hidden plunge pools tucked away in the jungle, perfect for a refreshing dip to cool off and take in the serenity of your surroundings.

The remote beaches along the way will offer moments of solitude, where you can pause, soak in the beauty, and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.

The hike culminates at the iconic Montezuma waterfalls, one of Costa Rica’s most stunning natural features, hidden deep in the jungle. Here, you’ll have time to marvel at the cascading falls, take a swim in the pools below, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before starting your return journey.

This full-day hike will leave you with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s natural beauty, from its diverse wildlife to its secret waterfalls and serene beaches. Simply stunning.

After an unforgettable adventure, you’ll begin your journey back to San José, where you’ll catch your international flight home.

The morning will be yours to savour a final glimpse of Costa Rica before you head to the airport. Whether it’s reflecting on the amazing memories you’ve made, sharing stories with fellow travellers, or simply soaking in the last moments of this beautiful country, it’s a time to appreciate all that you’ve experienced.

As you board your flight, you’ll carry with you the memories of a truly awesome journey through one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Safe travels.