Overview
9 Days
San Jose
San Jose
In-Depth Explorer
2.5 - 3.5 Star
Affordable
18-35 Years
30
Fully Guided
COST
Itinerary
Hola San José! After meeting up with your fellow Costa Rican explorers this morning we'll get straight on the road, bound for the biodiverse beauty of Sarapiquí. 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.
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.
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.
The bohemian atmosphere of Playa Tamarindo? Utterly infectious. Spend the day in the water snorkelling amongst the marine life, or stay above the waves and give surfing a try.
This afternoon, you can opt in for a catamaran cruise. Just another unique way to experience this beautiful ocean paradise.
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 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.
The adventures don't stop. And there's so much for you to choose from. First option? An exhilarating adventure at Selvatura Park for one of Costa Rica's most renowned ziplines. (Think: soaring through the misty treetops and catching unparalleled views of the forest below!). Looking for something a bit more tranquil? Choose to walk over the hanging bridges amongst the lush cloud forest. Wow.
Monteverde, it's been emotional, but we've got some beach hangs on our horizons. But first, we'll spend some time helping protect, preserve and regenerate the local forests with a tree planting experience. You'll even get to name your tree! Beachside Jacó 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.
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.
Jacó, you've been amazing. But it's time to make our way back to San José, where our trip will come to a close (sob). What an adventure it's been. Swap deets, we'll see each other on the road again soon.
Trip Inclusions
- Arenal: Grab your camera, as you're about to experience a live (and very photogenic) volcano in the Costa Rican rainforest.
- Insta-op! Trek around the jungle and admire this sparkling tower of water. Then cool off with a dip in the pool.
- Arenal: Once seen as a true “gift of the gods,” cacao has a big story to tell. You'll learn about different types of chocolate, how it's made, and most importantly - how cacao farming is evolving to support biodiversity and the environment. Oh, and of course, you'll help prepare (and taste!) plenty of chocolate, before heading off with a small souvenir bag of cacao beans to roast at home. This experience supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- Monteverde: Step onto a family-run coffee farm that champions the local Chorotega community. From seed to cup, you'll learn how micro batches, gourmet blends and specialty coffees are created — all while supporting Indigenous jobs and traditions. Expect a full sensory hit of aromas, flavours and lush Costa Rican scenery as you discover how this project boosts local producers and uplifts the wider community. This experience supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- Monteverde: A stroll through the misty upper level of the forest is an otherworldly experience. We're literally on cloud 9 with excitement (soz).
- Wanna do your bit to help the planet while out on the road? This is your chance to help support the local ecosystem. As you work, you'll learn all about the local trees, and the benefits that replanting them has for the ecosystem and the wildlife that lives here.
- Manuel Antonio National Park: Ah! The place of our wildest travel dreams. Lush jungle with sloths chilling in the trees. Paradise beaches just made for a relaxing beer.
- 3 Dinners (D)
- 8 Breakfasts (B)
- 8 nights in Hotels
- Expert Trip Manager
- Driver Team
- Local Guides
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Operator
For over 55 years we’ve been perfecting the secret formula to the perfect trip - we know you’re after unique experiences, local insight and accommodation that’s more than a place to sleep. We run over 350 trips across 6 continents, each one designed to get to the beating heart of a destination, understanding the local way of life, unearthing unforgettable experiences and creating lifelong memories. Real experiences, unique accommodation, local food, the best team and awesome people all deliver Contiki’s no regrets experience.
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Contiki Worldwide (2026-27)
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