Costa Rica National Parks

Well hello there, and welcome to Costa Rica. Today we'll go from one extreme to the next, with a locally guided tour of the Poás Volcano National Park – which includes a chance to see the summit – followed by a walking tour in San José: Costa Rica's magnificent capital city. First things first though, it's time to meet your Contiki crew…

We'll rise bright and early this morning to make our way to Puerto Viejo (with a sweet lil stop-off along the way…). We'll head to Turrialba (also known for its volcano, and actually named after the ‘white smoke' said volcano used to emit), we'll bask in the area's sprawling natural beauty, and then visit the Guayabo National Monument for a healthy dose of ancient architecture.

This evening, we'll arrive at the Caribbean coastal town of Puerto Viejo – known for its surf-savvy beaches, rainforests, wetlands and jaguar conservation efforts. You're free to explore with your Contiki crew, and your Trip Manager will give you a brief orientation tour to help you on your way.

Today we'll spend the whole day exploring Puerto Viejo – and boy does this town deserve it. We'll go hiking in Cahuita National Park (one of the most famous national parks in Costa Rica, where you might just see sloths IRL) and check out some of the best beaches in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica and indeed the world too.

Wakey wakey. It's Day 4. We have another full day in Puerto Viejo today, and some truly epic optional activities await. With river kayaking, surf lessons and a visit to a sloth sanctuary on today's menu, there's something for just about everyone. Also, we won't be offended if you choose to spend today doing your own thing, or just kicking back on the coast (those white sand beaches are pretty moreish, after all).

All aboard! Today we'll take a boat trip through canals and rivers to reach Tortuguero – another of the unmissable national parks in Costa Rica. Does it get more picturesque than this? We don't think so. Once we set foot back on dry land, we'll have a turtle-y awesome afternoon/evening waiting for us. That's right, we'll visit a sea turtle conservancy on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience… followed by the unique opportunity to go turtle-spotting at night!

Wondering what else to do tonight in Tortuguero? Fear not – your Trip Manager will give you a brief orientation tour, pointing out all the unmissable viewpoints and food spots.

Sure, Tortuguero is known for its sea turtles, but there's way more wildlife to spot here – and that's exactly what we'll do today. We'll take a boat trip along the winding canals, keeping our eyes peeled for monkeys, birds and more animals, not forgetting spectacular views.

Tonight, after checking out one of the world's more beautiful national parks, you'll have another free night to explore.

Tortuguero, you've been tantalising. We're all better and more well-rounded people now, but sadly it's time to make our way back to where the adventure began… And that… is… that. We've spent one week in Costa Rica. You're back in San José, where you're free to explore for a while longer or make your way back to the airport. Whichever path you're choosing, we're pretty sure this won't be the last time you'll be seeing your new Contiki crew.