This trip will take you through some of Costa Rica’s most famous National Parks: Poas, Arenal and Manuel Antonio. You’ll spend your days actively engaged in many activities that represent the best of the best the country has to offer!
Day 01 Arrival / San Jose
Upon arrival to San Jose, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Located in the center of the country, San José is a bustling city full of culture, great restaurants, and lively nightlife. A great place to start your vacation! Lodging at El Rodeo Hotel in San José
Day 02 Poas Volcano, Doka, Grecia & Sarchi Oxcart Factory (B, L)
As we ascend towards the volcano we stop for a brief explanation on our golden bean, coffee, and then continue our trip through fern, flower and strawberry farms. At the Poas Volcano we will have time to enjoy the impressive main crater with its sulfur fumaroles, and hike on a trail to the beautiful Botos Lagoon. After visiting the volcano, we will have time to enjoy a delicious lunch in one of the typical restaurants of the area. Our next stop is the town of Grecia. Considered one of the cleanest towns of Latin America, it is home to the only Metal Church in Central America. In order to catch a glimpse of local lifestyle we will also visit the central market area. Our last stop is Sarchi, known as the Cradle of Costa Rican Artisans because of its fine workshops. Here we will have time to enjoy the artistic work of the local artisans as they create the famous typical oxcart; you will be able to shop for souvenirs to take home. Lodging at El Rodeo in San José
Day 03 San José / Arenal (B, D)
After breakfast, you will be transferred to La Fortuna area, home of the famous Arenal Volcano. Before 1968, when it made an explosive eruption, nobody knew it was a volcano! Now, it’s one of the most active volcanoes in the country. On clear nights, it’s possible to see the lava and ash flowing from its fiery crater. Additionally, La Fortuna area offers many more attractions and activities: hot springs, nature hikes, rafting, boat and lake tours among many others. In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a tour that features a nature hike in the Arenal surroundings and then a relaxing swim in the hot springs. Buffet dinner is included. Lodging at the Arenal Volcano Inn in Arenal
Day 04 Peñas Blancas Safari Float / Hanging Bridges (B)
In the morning, you’ll enjoy a peaceful float down Peñas Blancas River. Along the way, watch for all the animals that you might encounter: caimans, iguanas, sloths, monkeys and birds. In the afternoon you’ll have a hike in the Arenal Hanging Bridges. The total trail is about 3 km long, and along the way you’ll encounter 15 bridges of different heights and lengths. This will allow you to see the forest and the volcano from a different angle. Lodging at the Arenal Volcano Inn in Arenal
Day 05 Arenal / Manuel Antonio (B)
Today you’ll be transferred to Manuel Antonio, in the Central Pacific area. This spectacular national park and beach destination is a vital stop during your vacation to Costa Rica. Famous for its light sand, great hiking spots, and astonishing wildlife, Manuel Antonio will surely be an experience you never forget. Here you can kayak, zip-line, go horseback riding, scuba dive, fish, and a lot more! Spend the afternoon at your leisure. Lodging at the Costa Verde Hotel in Manuel Antonio
Day 06 Mangrove Kayaking / Canopy Tour (B, L)
In the morning, get to know the impressive ecosystems that are the tropical mangroves. In this unique setting you will learn about how the animals and trees have adapted to this cyclic and ever changing environment. The mangroves are excellent spots for wildlife viewing, especially aquatic birds. In this tour, you will peacefully paddle at your own pace in the tranquil waters amidst the mangroves. In the afternoon, experience the excitement of gliding through the forest’s canopy…a true adrenaline rush! Luckily you’ll encounter some of the wild monkey species that live in this forest, like the endangered squirrel monkey, the smallest species in Costa Rica. Lodging at the Costa Verde Hotel in Manuel Antonio
Day 07 Manuel Antonio National Park / San Jose (B)
In the morning, you will have a guided hike through this famous protected reserve. Your guide will share his knowledge about natural history and will show you the exotic wildlife that abounds in the park! At the end, you’ll have some time to enjoy the wonderful beaches inside the park. To swim in such pristine waters is a one in a lifetime opportunity! Then you’ll be transferred back to the hotel. After check out around noon, you will be transferred back to San Jose. Lodging at El Rodeo in San José
Day 08 Departure (B)
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport.
