Viva Costa Rica

Hola San Jose! After meeting up with your fellow Costa Rican explorers this morning we'll get straight on the road, bound for the biodiverse beauty of Sarapiqui. Renowned for its fertile lands and gorgeous scenery, we'll stop off here for our first taste of fresh Costa Rican air - and our first dose of adventure for those keen to get a little wet and wild. How to round off the first day of our adventure? How about catching our first glimpse of one of the most incredible volcanoes in Costa Rica, Arenal. This volcano is near perfectly formed and famed for its hot springs and healing properties.

Dinner tonight will be a group affair in town after an action-packed first day. And our accommodation for the night is something special, set within stunning gardens in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano. Take a dip in the pool or watch iguanas bask atop the trees. This is the life. (D) Stay: Hotel Arenal Montechiari (or similar)

Rappelling through a rainforest canyon will be the perfect wake up call this morning. Not keen? How about taking advantage of the regions geothermal properties with a visit to the hot springs this afternoon? Whichever you decide - adventure, wellness or both, the day is going to be one to remember. (B)

Leaving Arenal towering behind us this morning we'll move on for a taste of Costa Rican beach life. Playa Tamarindo has the reputation of being Costa Rica's numero uno surf and party destination, and for good reason. This northern beach town boasts tasty waves and golden sands dotted with lounge bars and awesome restaurants. We'll be staying right by the beach so early morning swims are high on the agenda. (B/D) Stay: Best Western Vista Villas Tamarindo (or similar)

The bohemian atmosphere of Playa Tamarindo is utterly infectious, and it won't take long to ease into the pace of life here. Spend the day in the water snorkelling or scuba diving amongst the marine life, or stay above the waves and give surfing a try.

This afternoon, why not take advantage of our catamaran cruise Add-On, another unique way to experience this beautiful ocean paradise. (B)

It's goodbye to the beach life for now as we pack up our towels and make for the mountains. Feel the clean air filling your lungs as we arrive at the misty forests of Monteverde - a sight guaranteed to take your breath away. This leafy wildlife hotspot is home to butterfly gardens, coffee plantations, countless monkey species and passionate locals who work hard to preserve the balance between nature and tourism.

We'll spend some time with our friends at SINAC, helping protect, preserve and regenerate the local forests with a tree planting experience. You'll even get to name your tree! We'll also learn about everyone's favourite caffeinated friend - coffee. One of Costa Rica's most famous exports, we'll learn how the plants are cultivated and the entire process of turning delicious little berries into invigorating coffee beans. (B) Stay: Hotel Montana Monteverde (or similar)

The adventures don't stop. If you're looking for something a bit more tranquil, take a stroll on the hanging bridges amongst the lush cloud forest. (B/D)

Monteverde, it's been emotional, but we've got some beach hangs on our horizons.  Beachside Jaco is known for its surfing, nightlife and its optimal location as a gateway to Costa Rica's national parks.

This afternoon it's time to check out the town or get right into some relaxing by the pool (or at the bar) whilst contemplating Costa Rican life, soaking up these last few days in paradise. (B) Stay: Hotel Amapola (or similar)

Rise and shine! This morning we'll head over to Manuel Antonio, a spectacular national park. Manuel Antonio serves up a dizzying mix of ancient rainforest, pristine beaches and dazzling coral reefs. Get your cameras ready and be on the hunt for wildlife as we walk through this hub of mind boggling biodiversity.

After a day of exploration, we'll arrive back at our hotel this evening for some poolside relaxation. (B/D)

After a final adventure op in Jaco (kayaking, anyone? ) we'll make our way back to San Jose where our trip will come to a close.  What an adventure it's been. Swap deets, we'll see each other on the road again soon. (B)