Costa Rica: Coast to Coast

9 Days San Jose to Guanacaste
Costa Rica: Coast to Coast
Costa Rica: Coast to Coast
Costa Rica: Coast to Coast

Overview

Globus
Trip Operated By:
 (830) Reviews
Total No. of Tours 375
Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour of Costa Rica! From tropical rainforest canopies to captivating city sights, your Central American tour of Costa Rica is rich in countless ways. Explore the untouched beauty of jungle ecosystems, with expert naturalist guides, to discover mangrove trees, rivers, coastlines, nature preserves, and national parks in the country’s colorful landscapes and legendary villages. This tour of Costa Rica is by no means roughing it, however! You’ll return to the relaxation and rejuvenation of your hotel or lodge each day to find all the read more creature comforts of home in luxurious style! This is a Small Group Discovery tour to awaken the senses, naturally!
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Our Price From
A$4,519 per person
Price shown based on twin share
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Trip Length
9 Days
Trip Starts
San Jose
Trip Ends
Guanacaste
Trip Style
Small Group Discovery
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
5-99 Years
Max. Group Size
24
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
SC
Countries Visited:

Itinerary

Your Small Group Discovery tour begins!

Welcome to San José!

Welcome to The Jungle!

Take a morning drive to Guacalillo for a tropical mangrove cruise on Tárcoles River. Enjoy lunch before continuing south to the town of Quepos, home of Manuel Antonio National Park in the Central Pacific region of the country. Scenic drive to the Pacific shore to Manuel Antonio for a free evening.

LOCAL FAVORITE - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Explore the Tárcoles River by boat, home to the largest colonies of crocodiles in the world, recorded as having between 80 and 240 individuals per mile of river. Travel along the mangrove, an extraordinary ecosystem featuring four different species of mangrove trees, providing an important nesting site for birds, including the beautiful scarlet macaw, and a shelter and nutrient spot for many fish and invertebrates. As the boat approaches the riverbanks, get a close-up look at wild crocodiles, each up to fifteen feet long. In addition to the scarlet macaw, the estuary also hosts over 250 different kinds of birds, including kingfishers, roseate spoonbills, great herons, anhingas, night herons, and much more!

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Explore, Relax, Rediscover

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park with your guide this morning then return to the resort for lunch followed by a free afternoon and evening.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Join your small group for a guided walk in search of sloths, toucans, monkeys, and more in the natural sanctuary of Manuel Antonio National Park. Your guide will take you for a hike through the paths of this beautiful park where you will be able to see many species of birds and mammals, and at the end you will have chance to enjoy some time in one of the beaches into the park, all of them recognized into the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Tropical Treasures

Depart the Costa Rican coast for the rainforests. Visit the outdoor adventure hub of La Fortuna for free time before continuing to Arenal. Free time this afternoon to experience the resort's pool and hot spring-fed jacuzzi or consider a walk on a nearby nature trail.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: Immerse yourself in lush tropical gardens, the sound of crashing waterfalls, and striking views of Costa Rica's famed Arenal Volcano. Feel as though you have been transported into the middle of a hidden rainforest jungle, while enjoying all the comforts and amenities of a well-tended retreat. Experience the magic of your resort's pool and hot spring or enjoy a cup of coffee on the patio while listening to the sounds of the jungle inhabitants, including frogs, monkeys, birds, and other small animals native to the area.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Rainforest Canopies & Thermal Springs

Morning at leisure. This afternoon, join a Naturalist Guide for a tour of the Arenal Hanging Bridges, which combines trails and suspension bridges through the canopy of rainforest, to search for flora and fauna. This evening, drive to nearby famous Eco Termales Hot Springs for a dip in the curative and relaxing pools before dinner at the hot springs.

LOCAL FAVORITE - WONDERS OF NATURE: Towering high above, Arenal Volcano is a perfect conical shape. It was once the most active volcano in Costa Rica with its lava flowing and gas consistently flowing from the crater amazing visitors of the area. In 2010, it entered a resting phase. But, because of the seismic activity of the area, you will find some of the best natural thermal hot springs.

ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: with your morning at leisure to consider an optional horseback ride or float trip, or simply relax while enjoying your resort's amenities or walk along the shaded trails nearby. Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Lava Love

On a guided visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, see lava trails and how nature has found a way to recover from past lava flows in this dramatic landscape. Next, a walking tour of the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos, offering spectacular views of the active Arenal Volcano. Return to the resort for a free evening.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Ever since the 1500s, locals considered Arenal to be a mountain. However, everything changed on the morning of July 29, 1968, when what appeared as a peaceful mountain suddenly erupted. The eruptions continued non-stop for several days, covering more than 15 square kilometers with lava, rocks, and ash, affecting crops, livestock, and properties across three towns. From that time until 2010, Arenal Volcano was quite active, often spewing out rocks, lava, ash, and smoke. Join your small group for an up-close view of this dramatic landscape on a guided visit to the park.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Unplug & Recharge

Bid farewells to the rainforest, as we depart for the beautiful beaches of Costa Rica. Start the journey with a scenic drive around Arenal Lake before descending the Tilaran Mountain range to reach the plains of Guanacaste's countryside and finally to the golden sands of Tamarindo Beach. The evening is at leisure to relax or take in the sunset.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: The Tamarindo Diriá Beach & Golf Resort, your home for the next two nights, is surrounded by exotic, lush, beautiful tropical gardens and with direct access to the beach, a stunning sunset is only a stroll away. Soak in the beauty of Costa Rica than with a lazy evening on the beach. Ask your Tour Director for the best spots on the sand to stretch out for pure relaxation on the pristine shore.

Included Meals: Breakfast

A Day at Leisure

Full day at leisure to relax at the poolside, go explore the town on your own, take an optional adventure, or visit the beach and enjoy the sun and the waves. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner to celebrate your Costa Rican adventure with your fellow travels.

ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: Exciting ways to spend your free time in Guanacaste include rainforest canopy tours, zipline, river rafting or floating down the Corobici River, horseback riding, and fishing. Snorkel in the Pacific Ocean, or just relax on the beach. Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Safe travels until we meet again!

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trip Inclusions

  • Scenic cruise along the [LF] Tárcoles River through mangrove forests with crocodile and bird sightings
  • Guided hike in Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Stay at a rainforest resort in Arenal with views of the volcano, nature trails, hot spring fed jacuzzi, and more
  • Guided tour of Arenal Hanging Bridge's canopy trail to spot flora and fauna
  • Evening soak and dinner at [LF] Eco Termales natural hot springs near Arenal
  • Guided sightseeing includes a hike in Arenal Volcano National Park and a walking tour of La Fortuna
  • Scenic drive around Lake Arenal and through the Tilaran Mountain range
  • 2-night stay in Guanacaste with ample free time for optional excursions, beach time, or other ocean activities

  • 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners

  • San Jose: Doubletree Cariari (Superior First-Class):
    This sustainable Costa Rica hotel is typical of San Jose colonial hacienda architecture and offers spacious, comfortable guestrooms and suites with the latest amenities. Enjoy total convenience in its location, personalized services, delicious cuisine, and facilities like the pool and fitness center. Let the friendly staff help you relax while catering to your needs and helping you see all that Costa Rica has to offer.
  • Manuel Antonio: Parador Resort & Spa (First-Class):
    Uniquely set among luxuriant coastal rainforest overlooking Costa Rica's famous Manuel Antonio National Park, Hotel Parador Resort & Spa sits atop a 400-acre secluded peninsula surrounded by wild beauty. Amenities include five restaurants, three bars, a spa, four pools, fitness center, tennis court, mini golf, nature trails, business center, gift shop, and an activities desk.
  • Arenal Area: Volcano Lodge & Gardens (First-Class):
    With an exceptional location and views of Arenal Volcano, this hotel surpasses expectation in comfort, service, and class. Guests will feel at ease with modern room amenities, clean lines, and tasteful décor. Dining options, spa services, and a choice of pool and lounge settings make your stay in Arenal unforgettable, as well as its convenient access to the wildlife and nature surrounding it.
  • Guanacaste: Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort (First-Class):
    This stunning property is a paradise along the shores of Northern Costa Rica. Elegant and modern accommodations are accented with local flare, while the hotel's facilities and features exceed expectation. The Tamarindo Diria Resort provides beach access, soothing pools surrounded by vegetation, and a variety of options to try local cuisine, all constant reminders that you are far away in a tropical escape.

  • Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
  • Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.

Operator

Globus
Total No. of Tours375
At Globus, we’re not just hooked on travel as a destination, but on the way it makes you feel. Our promise is to craft adventures that you’ll want to re-live forever. We’ve been creating wonder-filled first class touring for more than 90 years; we have the experience and local knowledge globally to craft more immersive adventures that make Globus travellers feel alive. Not only can you expect to see the big sites, we’ll also take you deeper in each location, right to the beating heart of each new discovery.

At Globus, we understand that your holiday is your treat – a gift from you to you. Let us connect you with a new world of people, places and experiences that will ignite your imagination.
Sightseeing & VIP Access
Sightseeing & VIP Access

Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more

Culture Through Cuisine
Culture Through Cuisine

Globus has the recipe for a great holiday. Savour the flavours of South America through its regional cuisine. Read more

Expert Local Guides
Expert Local Guides

Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of South America. Read more

Superior Hotels
Superior Hotels

Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more

We handle the Details
We handle the Details

Globus takes care of the components that make your tour unforgettable, so just sit back and relax. Read more

Local Favourites
Local Favourites

Experience South America like an insider with Local Favourites that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more

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Download Brochure

Globus Small Group Discoveries (2026-27) Brochure

Globus Small Group Discoveries (2026-27)

Discover the difference with Globus Small Group Discovery tours – where fewer travellers mean more authentic experiences. Go beyond the guidebooks with exclusive access, behind-the-scenes moments and seamless service, all in the company of a small group for a more personal connection to every destination.

Enjoy front-row views of legendary sites more such as the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Tetons and Nagoya Castle. Skip the queues with VIP entry, and immerse yourself in stories that bring rich history and vibrant cultures to life. With nearly 100 years of expertise, hand-selected hotels, expert Tour Directors and worry-free travel, Globus delivers the ultimate touring experience – now with the added benefit of smaller groups for bigger discoveries. This is Touring. Beyond. Don’t just see the world. Tour it with Globus Small Group Discoveries.

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Friday 22 Jan 2027 22 Jan 27 San Jose
Saturday 30 Jan 2027 30 Jan 27 Guanacaste
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A$5,969
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Friday 29 Jan 2027 29 Jan 27 San Jose
Saturday 06 Feb 2027 06 Feb 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $5,059
A$4,665
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Friday 12 Feb 2027 12 Feb 27 San Jose
Saturday 20 Feb 2027 20 Feb 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $5,299
A$4,898
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Friday 19 Feb 2027 19 Feb 27 San Jose
Saturday 27 Feb 2027 27 Feb 27 Guanacaste
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A$6,029
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Friday 12 Mar 2027 12 Mar 27 San Jose
Saturday 20 Mar 2027 20 Mar 27 Guanacaste
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Friday 19 Mar 2027 19 Mar 27 San Jose
Saturday 27 Mar 2027 27 Mar 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $5,109
A$4,713
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Friday 26 Mar 2027 26 Mar 27 San Jose
Saturday 03 Apr 2027 03 Apr 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $5,109
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Friday 16 Apr 2027 16 Apr 27 San Jose
Saturday 24 Apr 2027 24 Apr 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $5,109
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Friday 14 May 2027 14 May 27 San Jose
Saturday 22 May 2027 22 May 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $4,909
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Friday 09 Jul 2027 09 Jul 27 San Jose
Saturday 17 Jul 2027 17 Jul 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $5,059
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Friday 01 Oct 2027 01 Oct 27 San Jose
Saturday 09 Oct 2027 09 Oct 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $4,909
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Friday 22 Oct 2027 22 Oct 27 San Jose
Saturday 30 Oct 2027 30 Oct 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $4,909
A$4,519
Save $390
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Friday 19 Nov 2027 19 Nov 27 San Jose
Saturday 27 Nov 2027 27 Nov 27 Guanacaste
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Was: $5,059
A$4,665
Save $394
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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 Globus. 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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