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> Signature: Costa Rica's Monteverde, Arenal & Guanacaste
Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 9 Day Signature: Costa Rica's Monteverde, Arenal & Guanacaste. Traverse the highlands of Costa Rica on an expedition from the cloud forests of Monteverde to the Pacific coast. Immerse yourself in the volcanic landscapes of Arenal, the mist of Bajos del Toro, and the dry tropical forests of Guanacaste. Guided by experts, explore a world where conservation, culture, and biodiversity converge.
Trip Length
9 Days
Trip Starts
San José
Trip Ends
Liberia
Departures
Jan 2027 to Dec 2027
Countries Visited:
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
National Geographic Signature
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
22
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
CRSLNS
Itinerary
Welcome to Costa Rica. Your expedition begins upon arrival at San José Airport, where you will be met and whisked away from the city toward the cool, mist-shrouded peaks of the Bajos del Toro region. Check into your comfortable lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the cloud forest. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers. An engaging presentation from a National Geographic Expedition Expert sets the scene for the biodiversity you will encounter, followed by a welcome dinner.
Accommodation:
Hotel El Silencio Lodge
Included Meals:
Dinner
Included Experiences
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
- Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group: Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included welcome dinner after the meeting.
Immerse yourself in the cloud forest silence on a morning walk to a dramatic waterfall. Guided by a naturalist, scan the moss-draped trees for birdlife while feeling the cool spray of the cascade. Later, connect with local traditions at a family home–feel the texture of the masa as you learn to shape corn tortillas by hand, then share a rustic lunch with your hosts. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the lodge trails before an evening talk on the geology of the Arenal Volcano.
Accommodation:
Hotel El Silencio Lodge
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Naturalist Guided Walking Tour: Depart with a Naturalist guide on a walking tour to waterfalls in Bajos del Toro, keeping eyes peeled for birds, insects, snakes, frogs, and plenty of additional flora and fauna as you make your way towards the waterfalls. Learn how El Silencio Lodge got its name, and take a moment in the forest to sit in silence and allow the sounds and smells of nature to sink in. Use this brief pause to wash away the tensions and anxieties of travelling to Costa Rica, and refresh yourself as you begin this relaxing and enlightening discovery of this peaceful place. Enjoy free time at the falls, listening to the rush of water and sounds of nature to cleanse your mind for the adventure to come.
- Home Made Tortilla Lunch with a Local Family: Gather at the home of a local family headed by Doña Olga. Join Doña Olga and some of her family to try your hand at making home made corn tortillas. Cook them the traditional way and then sample them with some traditional Costa Rican side dishes. Join the host family for a local lunch where you can share a meal together alongside a welcoming community of Ticos.
- Free Time: Enjoy the peace and tranquility the lodge provides by resting or reading. There are also activities on site, such as sound bathing, a spa and walking trails on the property.
Travel to La Selva Biological Station for a behind-the-scenes moment with a resident anthropologist, go beyond the visitor trails to inspect insect traps and observe real-time biodiversity monitoring. Continue to Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative to witness the transformation of the coffee bean, understanding its vital role in the local economy. Arrive in La Fortuna and settle into your hotel, ending the day with a soak in natural hot springs heated by the earth’s volcanic core.
Accommodation:
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- "The World of Insects" at La Selva Biological Station: The Organization for Tropical Studies invites you to experience “Science Behind the Scenes at La Selva Research Station” — a guided visit led by a resident anthropologist and taxonomist offering an insider’s look at how tropical biodiversity research happens at one of the world’s leading field stations. Discover the fascinating diversity of tropical insects through our Insect Collection and learn about innovative monitoring systems such as the Automated Monitoring of Insects project. Observe insect traps and hear how this data helps track biodiversity changes, with a short walk in the forest to connect research with field observation.
- Mi Cafecito Coffee Experience: Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative seeks to transport the essence of Costa Rican coffee through a sensory, educational, and emotional experience, with a focus on connection with local producers, cultural impact, and sustainability. Experience a live demonstration to understand the coffee-making process — from cherries to roasting — as well as a tasting featuring different varieties of coffee, as well as different brewing methods.
Trace the path of ancient eruptions on a guided hike through Arenal Volcano National Park. Walking over solidified lava flows, your guide reveals how the forest has reclaimed the rock, offering spectacular views of the volcano’s perfect cone. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps returning to the thermal waters. As night falls, follow the scent of woodsmoke to a hands-on cooking class at a woman-owned restaurant, preparing a traditional dinner over an open flame.
Accommodation:
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Arenal Walk and Guided Tour: Begin your tour in the northwest area of the volcano, which was the area with the most volcanic activity during the last period of eruptions. Walk along trails that pass through a regenerating forest and cross over a large block of petrified lava formed by past eruptions, with steep slopes and sandy soils. It is possible to observe a great variety of plants, wildlife, and magnificent rock formations. In addition to the volcanic landscape, the place offers a wonderful view of Lake Arenal. During the tour, your experienced guides will provide you with interesting and educational information about the history of the volcano, lithological cycles, forest formation processes, and general volcanology.
- Free Time: Choose to explore downtown La Fortuna for lunch, or return to the hotel to take advantage of the hot springs on property.
- El Fogón de Chela Cooking Class: At El Fogón de Chela, you’ll be welcomed in true tico style — with a refreshing drink and a genuine smile. Then, you’ll choose which traditional dishes to prepare from the family recipe book, filled with stories and flavors passed down through generations. As you cook over the warmth of the wood fire, share anecdotes, laughter, and feel the true spirit of Costa Rican cuisine. It’s not just about learning recipes, but about living a genuine experience full of aromas, textures, and emotions. At the end, enjoy together what you've prepared, accompanied by natural juices and the charm of the countryside.
Navigate the waters of Lake Arenal by private boat, watching the landscape shift from volcanic lowlands to the rolling green hills of the divide, before ascending into the cool air of the Monteverde cloud forest. Visit the Monteverde Institute, a research and educational organization supported by National Geographic. Learn how they balance community growth with conservation, including a fascinating look at the impact of artificial light on nocturnal wildlife.
Accommodation:
Monteverde Lodge and Gardens
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Boat: Board a private boat to cross Arenal Lake toward the Monteverde side. There is very little wake, so sit back and enjoy the peaceful ride.
- Monteverde Institute Visit: The Monteverde Institute promotes social, ecological and economic sustainability by integrating community initiatives with education, research and conservation. During this visit, you will be at the intersection of wildlife conservation and research, innovation, and community. Artificial light at night (ALAN) affects wildlife, human health and night sky visibility – learn about these issues with a presentation summarizing relevant research, and collaborative local and national initiatives to address them. From intentional design and product selection to retrofitting existing lighting, discover existing and proposed solutions, and offer your ideas! After some local coffee and refreshments, you’ll contribute to local efforts to monitor effects of ALAN in the biology lab, create affordable solutions in the Community Innovation Lab (e.g. streetlight shades), or promote astrotourism as a form of community tourism from our Center for Community Initiatives. By participating in this activity, you are contributing to the search for solutions to sustainability challenges in Monteverde and around the world.
Enjoy exclusive early-access to the canopy on a private, morning tour of the hanging bridges, experiencing the forest’s tranquility before it opens to the general public. Suspended high above the forest floor, watch the mist clear and listen for the waking calls of howler monkeys. Continue the search for wildlife in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, treading softly on fern-lined trails in hopes of spotting the brilliant emerald plumage of the resplendent quetzal. Enjoy a free afternoon before dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation:
Monteverde Lodge and Gardens
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Private Canopy Tour: Join a Naturalist guide on a private tour of the hanging bridges of Treetopia Monteverde. Enter the hanging bridges before the crowds and witness the forest come alive as it wakes up and greets the day. With luck, you may hear the famous bell bird with its distinct call. The private experience on these famous bridges gives you the chance to truly absorb the size and scope of this unique cloud forest environment. Your later visit to the Santa Elena Reserve will be dedicated to spotting specific creatures at a closer distance.
- Naturalist Guided Tour in Santa Elena Reserve: Named one of the 25 most magical forests in the world, Santa Elena Reserve and the cloud forest region of Monteverde is home to over 200 species of birds. Additionally its host to a stunning array of diverse flora: orchids, bromeliads, ficus, monkey tail ferns and much more. Join a Naturalist guide to attempt to spot the incredibly elusive Quetzal. The males, in particular, with their striking long green tails and iconic tuft of green feathers atop their heads are often a once-in-a-lifetime spot for many avid birders.
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon to rest or take in additional sites in Monteverde, like the cheese factory, bat jungle, or frog pond.
Leave the clouds behind and descend toward the dry tropical forests of Guanacaste. Stop in Rincón de la Vieja National Park to witness clean energy in action at a geothermal project, surrounded by the hissing steam of volcanic vents. Keep an eye out for wildlife adapting to this rugged and lush terrain. Pause at the Rio Negro Waterfalls for a gourmet picnic lunch in the shade of the canyon before completing the drive to your hotel on the Pacific coast.
Accommodation:
JW Marriot Guanacaste
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Santa Maria Wind Project: Learn about Costa Rica's focus on wind power generation, witnessing the massive wind turbines from an observation point. Hear from an expert about the environmental impact the wind project is having on the country's energy grid.
- Picnic Lunch at Rio Negro Waterfalls: Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, with the falls as your background.
- Las Pailas Geothermal Energy Site Visit: Follow a guide through the geothermal plant, which harnesses the power of the Rincón de la Vieja volcano, to learn about the history of the project and its contribution to Costa Rica's national energy system. Hear about its environmental impact, mitigation measures, and carbon offset strategies.
Venture into the mangroves of Las Baulas National Marine Park on a guided boat excursion. Drift quietly through the Tamarindo Estuary, scanning the tangled roots for crocodiles and watching for iguanas and squirrel monkeys in the branches above. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or walking the beach. In the evening, regroup for a final expert talk summarizing the week’s discoveries, followed by a celebratory farewell dinner with your travel companions.
Accommodation:
JW Marriot Guanacaste
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Tamarindo Estuary Excursion: Embark on a fully guided excursion within the Marino las Baulas National Park at the Tamarindo Estuary. The estuary and its brackish water provides food, shelter and breeding grounds for diverse wildlife. You will have the opportunity to observe different types of birds such as Blue Herons, Tricolored Herons, and Night Herons, in addition to Hawks and Fishing Eagles. While on board the boat, travel through the estuary and observe the American Crocodile, Iguanas, Squirrels and learn about the mangrove ecosystem. During the excursion, you can also disembark for a short walk to observe the Howler Monkey, the Guanacaste Tree (National Tree of Costa Rica), the Ceiba Tree (National Tree of Guatemala), and The Thorny Cedar (one of the most expensive wood materials).
- Free Time: Have lunch at your leisure, with plenty of time to enjoy the beach or pool this afternoon.
Your expedition to Costa Rica concludes today. After a final breakfast overlooking the Pacific, transfers are provided to the Liberia airport at any time during the day.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Departure Transfer: You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Trip Inclusions
- Go behind the scenes at a leading research station to track tropical insects with experts.
- Trace the journey of coffee from bean to cup at a sustainable community-run cooperative.
- Meet researchers at the Monteverde Institute to learn how they protect the cloud forest.
- Walk the hanging bridges of Monteverde before the crowds watching the forest wake up.
- Visit a local family home to learn the art of making traditional corn tortillas by hand.
- Your G for Good Moment: Mi Cafecito Coffee Experience, Alajuela
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Bajos del Toro
- Your Local Living Moment: Home Made Tortilla Lunch with a Local Family, Bajos del Toro
- Signature Moment: "The World of Insects" at La Selva Biological Station, Sarapiquí
- Your Foodie Moment: El Fogón de Chela Cooking Class, La Fortuna
- Signature Moment: Monteverde Institute Visit, Monteverde
- Arrival transfer
- Naturalist Guided Walking Tour in Bajos del Toro
- Arenal Volcano Lecture
- Arenal Walk and Guided Tour
- Private Canopy Tour in Monteverde
- Naturalist Guided Tour in Santa Elena Reserve
- Visit to Las Pailas Geothermal Project I & II
- Santa Maria Wind Project
- Picnic Lunch at Rio Negro Waterfalls
- Tamarindo Estuary Excursion
- Free time in Bajos del Toro, La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Guanacaste
- Departure transfer
- Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert Throughout
- Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles
- Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private vehicle, motorized boat, walking
- National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout
- Hotels (4 Nights), Lodges (4 Nights)
- 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: National Geographic Signature
These ultra-premium journeys combine deep cultural immersion with five-star comfort and the authority of National Geographic. Created in collaboration with G Adventures, each experience offers rare access, meaningful connections with communities, and expert insight from leading specialists.
With world-class service, thoughtfully curated inclusions, and unforgettable Signature Moments throughout, these journeys are designed for travelers who seek refined luxury without losing a sense of purpose or discovery.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Saturday
09 Jan 2027
09 Jan 27
San José
Sunday
17 Jan 2027
17 Jan 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$8,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
06 Feb 2027
06 Feb 27
San José
Sunday
14 Feb 2027
14 Feb 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$8,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
06 Mar 2027
06 Mar 27
San José
Sunday
14 Mar 2027
14 Mar 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$8,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
27 Mar 2027
27 Mar 27
San José
Sunday
04 Apr 2027
04 Apr 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
10 Apr 2027
10 Apr 27
San José
Sunday
18 Apr 2027
18 Apr 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
01 Jun 2027
01 Jun 27
San José
Wednesday
09 Jun 2027
09 Jun 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$8,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
05 Jun 2027
05 Jun 27
San José
Sunday
13 Jun 2027
13 Jun 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$8,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
24 Jul 2027
24 Jul 27
San José
Sunday
01 Aug 2027
01 Aug 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$8,899
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
09 Oct 2027
09 Oct 27
San José
Sunday
17 Oct 2027
17 Oct 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$8,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
06 Nov 2027
06 Nov 27
San José
Sunday
14 Nov 2027
14 Nov 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
20 Nov 2027
20 Nov 27
San José
Sunday
28 Nov 2027
28 Nov 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
11 Dec 2027
11 Dec 27
San José
Sunday
19 Dec 2027
19 Dec 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
18 Dec 2027
18 Dec 27
San José
Sunday
26 Dec 2027
26 Dec 27
Liberia
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
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 Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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 Inquire. 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 G Adventures. 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.
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 G Adventures. 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.
