Best of Costa Rica (Small Group)

8 Days San Jose Return
Best of Costa Rica (Small Group)
Best of Costa Rica (Small Group)
Best of Costa Rica (Small Group)

Overview

Contiki
Trip Operated By:
 (81) Reviews
Total No. of Tours 233
Costa Rica’s wildest experiences come together in one trip: rainforests, volcanoes, surf breaks and hot springs. Zipline over misty forests in Monteverde, hit the surf in Jaco and spot sloths in Manuel Antonio National Park. Add coffee, chocolate, wildlife and pura vida energy for the full hit of Costa Rica.
Our Price From
A$2,122 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Check Availability
Trip Length
8 Days
Trip Starts
San Jose
Trip Ends
San Jose
Trip Style
In-Depth Explorer
Accommodation
2.5 - 3.5 Star
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
18-39 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
YCOST
Countries Visited:

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. Known for fertile land and seriously gorgeous scenery, Sarapiquí will serve up our first taste of fresh Costa Rican air — and our first hit of adventure for anyone keen to get a little wild.

We'll round off day one with our first glimpse of one of Costa Rica's most iconic volcanoes. Near-perfect in shape and famous for its hot springs, Arenal will make a strong first impression. Dinner will be with the group in town, then we'll settle into our stay surrounded by lush gardens in the shadow of the volcano. Feel free to take a dip in the pool or watch iguanas bask atop the trees. Not a bad start, right?

Accommodation: Hotel Arenal Montechiari (or similar)
Included Meals: Dinner

This morning, we'll have the chance to wake up with a rainforest canyon rappelling adventure. Prefer to slow it down? How about soaking in the region's geothermal hot springs? There'll also be the option to visit a local chocolate farm to discover a sweeter side of Arenal.

Accommodation: Hotel Arenal Montechiari (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast

We'll leave the towering Arenal behind this morning and head for a taste of Costa Rica's beach life. Playa Tamarindo has the reputation of being Costa Rica's numero uno surf and nightlife destination, and for good reason. This northern beach town boasts tasty waves and golden sands dotted with lounge bars and awesome restaurants. And we'll be staying right by the beach - so early morning swims are high on the agenda.

In the afternoon, you have the option to visit a local chocolate farm (and grab a bite of a choccie or two).

Accommodation: Maravida Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast

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.

Accommodation: Maravida Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast

Say goodbye to beach life. The mountains are calling. Fresh air, misty forests and a whole new vibe — Monteverde will be a total switch-up in the best way. This leafy wildlife hotspot is home to butterfly gardens, coffee plantations, curious monkeys and a community deeply connected to the land. On the way, we'll join a tree planting experience to help protect and regenerate the local forest. And yes, you'll even get to name your tree!

Accommodation: Hotel Don Taco (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Don Taco (or similar)

Rise and shine! This morning we'll head over to Manuel Antonio, a spectacular national park. Parque Nacional 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. Beachside Jacó is all about surf, coastal energy and easy access to some of Costa Rica's best natural spots. After a full day of exploring, you'll have the option to grab a final dinner with the crew.

Accommodation: Amapola Resort (or similar)

We know, it's hard to leave Jacó. But good all things come to an end. After breakfast, we'll make our way back to San José. What a ride! Swap deets, relive the highlights, and call it a trip — until next time!

Included Meals: Breakfast

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.
  • 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.

  • 5 Breakfasts (B)
  • 1 Dinner (D)

  • 7 nights in Hotel

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
 
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Dates & Pricing

Saturday 16 Jan 2027 16 Jan 27 San Jose
Saturday 23 Jan 2027 23 Jan 27 San Jose
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,165
A$2,122
Save $43
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 23 Jan 2027 23 Jan 27 San Jose
Saturday 30 Jan 2027 30 Jan 27 San Jose
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
A$2,625
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Saturday 30 Jan 2027 30 Jan 27 San Jose
Saturday 06 Feb 2027 06 Feb 27 San Jose
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,275
A$2,229
Save $46
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Contiki. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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