Mini Adventures in Costa Rica
15 days from £4,350
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
You will be met at the airport by our local representative who will accompany you on the 45-minute drive to your hotel in the hills above San Jose.
Xandari Resort & Spa is tucked away in the hills above San José but is only a 10-kilometre drive from the airport. Set within 40 acres of tropical gardens and with birds flitting from tree to tree, it makes a relaxing base for those wishing to avoid a stay in the congested capital.
The hotel has clusters of boldly decorated villas, each one well-appointed and housing one or two large guestrooms and a private terrace with impressive views over the Central Valley particularly at night. Their décor is far from bland and features vibrant original works of art, stained glass windows and colourful mosaics.
The open-air restaurant serves a varied farm-to-table menu with much of the produce grown onsite. There are three swimming pools and a good quality spa, and guests can explore the 4km of private nature trails which meander through the property’s gardens past waterfalls.
Recover from your international flight with a relaxing day at leisure to enjoy your hotel’s extensive facilities. Unwind by one of the three swimming pools, treat yourself to a spa session, or head into the hotel’s private forest reserve for birdwatching or hikes to waterfalls.
Xandari Resort & Spa is tucked away in the hills above San José but is only a 10-kilometre drive from the airport. Set within 40 acres of tropical gardens and with birds flitting from tree to tree, it makes a relaxing base for those wishing to avoid a stay in the congested capital.
The hotel has clusters of boldly decorated villas, each one well-appointed and housing one or two large guestrooms and a private terrace with impressive views over the Central Valley particularly at night. Their décor is far from bland and features vibrant original works of art, stained glass windows and colourful mosaics.
The open-air restaurant serves a varied farm-to-table menu with much of the produce grown onsite. There are three swimming pools and a good quality spa, and guests can explore the 4km of private nature trails which meander through the property’s gardens past waterfalls.
Return to San José airport for a 30-minute flight on a small aircraft to Tortuguero, a national park on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Established in 1970 to protect a key nesting site for the Atlantic green sea turtle, Tortuguero’s extensive network of rivers and canals has made it one of the country’s best destinations for wildlife spotting.
Mawamba Lodge’s wooden cabins are simply but attractively furnished and surrounded by lush tropical gardens. There is a large pool and hammock lounge as well as a floating restaurant.
Excursions include a guided visit of the lodge’s two butterfly farms and frog garden, as well as a boat tour of the park’s waterways. Other activities, such as night hikes, canoeing, kayaking and watching sea turtles nest (July – September) can be booked locally.
Set off on an early morning boat trip through the mangrove forests of Tortuguero National Park, gliding silently along the waterways as you observe a variety of wildlife.
Look out for three species of monkeys – spider, howler, and white-faced – along with three-toed sloths, river otters, caimans, iguanas, river turtles, lizards, colourful poison dart frogs and over 300 species of bird.
In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to Tortuguero village and the Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor Centre, followed by a guided walk through the lodge’s own grounds.
Mawamba Lodge’s wooden cabins are simply but attractively furnished and surrounded by lush tropical gardens. There is a large pool and hammock lounge as well as a floating restaurant.
Excursions include a guided visit of the lodge’s two butterfly farms and frog garden, as well as a boat tour of the park’s waterways. Other activities, such as night hikes, canoeing, kayaking and watching sea turtles nest (July – September) can be booked locally.
Return to La Pavona dock by boat (1 hour), then continue by private transfer to La Fortuna, a town in the shadow of Arenal Volcano (3 hours).
Rising to a modest 1,674 m, Arenal Volcano is an impressive conical peak that dominates the landscape. The volcano last erupted in 1998, and while eruptions and lava flows are now rare – there has been no significant activity since 2010 – the region remains a highlight of any visit to Costa Rica.
Today, it’s an adventure playground, offering hikes to waterfalls, kayaking, white-water rafting, ziplining, and canyoning.
Arenal Manoa is a resort in the foothills of Arenal Volcano, a 10-minute drive from the town of La Fortuna and 20 minutes from the national park. With good quality accommodation and a range of facilities, as well as impressive views of the volcano throughout the property, it’s a great place to stay.
The resort is spread out and surrounded by beautifully maintained tropical gardens, attracting a lot of birdlife and ensuring the 80 rooms retain a sense of privacy. Accommodation is spacious and bright and comes with air-con and a private terrace with either garden or volcano views.
For an upgrade guests can stay in one of the ten Chato Suites with their own private plunge pool and a spacious deck replete with multiple lounging options as well as an outdoor shower, perfect for an afternoon’s relaxation after a morning full of adventure.
Facilities include a small complex of hot springs, two swimming pools, an open-air riverside spa and three on-site restaurants serving a la carte menus, pizza and sushi.
Get an up-close experience of the rainforest on a guided walk along the Mistico Hanging Bridges and discover wildlife and exotic plants.
This exciting 3 km trail features six impressive suspension bridges -some stretching nearly 100 m in length and rising 50 m above the forest floor – along with ten smaller fixed bridges. With a maximum incline of just seven degrees, the carefully designed path is accessible to most ages and fitness levels.
Keep your eyes peeled for snakes, frogs, lizards, and countless insects and birds, all while admiring views of Arenal Volcano in the distance.
Arenal Manoa is a resort in the foothills of Arenal Volcano, a 10-minute drive from the town of La Fortuna and 20 minutes from the national park. With good quality accommodation and a range of facilities, as well as impressive views of the volcano throughout the property, it’s a great place to stay.
The resort is spread out and surrounded by beautifully maintained tropical gardens, attracting a lot of birdlife and ensuring the 80 rooms retain a sense of privacy. Accommodation is spacious and bright and comes with air-con and a private terrace with either garden or volcano views.
For an upgrade guests can stay in one of the ten Chato Suites with their own private plunge pool and a spacious deck replete with multiple lounging options as well as an outdoor shower, perfect for an afternoon’s relaxation after a morning full of adventure.
Facilities include a small complex of hot springs, two swimming pools, an open-air riverside spa and three on-site restaurants serving a la carte menus, pizza and sushi.
The class II–III rapids of the Río Balsa provide an ideal introduction to white-water rafting for beginners and families (minimum age: 8 years). The put-in point for today’s adventure is just 30 minutes from La Fortuna. After a thorough safety briefing, you’ll paddle through crystal-clear waters, navigating rapids with names like Magnetic Rock and Dredges.
You’ll spend about two hours on the river, with plenty of calm stretches between rapids where you can sit back and enjoy the surrounding rainforest and its wildlife – toucans, sloths, and monkeys are often spotted – or take a refreshing swim in tranquil pools.
The trip concludes at a country estate, where you can shower, change, and have lunch before returning to your hotel.
Arenal Manoa is a resort in the foothills of Arenal Volcano, a 10-minute drive from the town of La Fortuna and 20 minutes from the national park. With good quality accommodation and a range of facilities, as well as impressive views of the volcano throughout the property, it’s a great place to stay.
The resort is spread out and surrounded by beautifully maintained tropical gardens, attracting a lot of birdlife and ensuring the 80 rooms retain a sense of privacy. Accommodation is spacious and bright and comes with air-con and a private terrace with either garden or volcano views.
For an upgrade guests can stay in one of the ten Chato Suites with their own private plunge pool and a spacious deck replete with multiple lounging options as well as an outdoor shower, perfect for an afternoon’s relaxation after a morning full of adventure.
Facilities include a small complex of hot springs, two swimming pools, an open-air riverside spa and three on-site restaurants serving a la carte menus, pizza and sushi.
It’s a short drive from your hotel to the shores of Lake Arenal, where a 30-minute boat ride takes you across the lake to Río Chiquito. From there, continue for another two hours along a bumpy road that winds through the cloud-forested hills to Monteverde, 1,400 m above sea level.
The Children’s Eternal Rainforest is the largest private reserve in Costa Rica, protected thanks to the efforts of children and adults, schools, and organizations in more than forty countries worldwide.
As dusk falls, the forest transforms – its atmosphere shifting as nocturnal creatures emerge while others settle in for the night. Armed with a flashlight, keep your eyes peeled for snakes, tarantulas, frogs, and countless other critters!
Koora Boutique Hotel enjoys a peaceful setting above Santa Elena and is well positioned for day trips to the Monteverde and Santa Elena cloud forest reserves which are just a short drive away.
The property features 24 suites and bungalows – suites are located in the main building, while bungalows are tucked into lush gardens connected by walkways. Rooms are decorated in soothing tones of green and blue, with warm wood furnishings for a cozy, natural feel. Couples looking to treat themselves can opt for a suite with a private plunge pool, while families will love the split-level layouts with mezzanines.
The hotel’s restaurant, Kire, serves local and international dishes, with much of the produce sourced from the on-site garden. On clear days, its terrace offers beautiful views stretching to the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Ocean. After dinner, gather around the fire pit for a hot chocolate or a nightcap under the stars.
The adjoining Aguti Wildlife Reserve, home to ancient trees, diverse flora and fauna, and its namesake agouti – a rodent related to the guinea pig – features a 4-kilometre network of trails to explore independently or with a naturalist guide.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve spans just 3,500 hectares, yet it harbours an astonishing 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity. Perched along the spine of the Cordillera de Tilarán, the reserve captures a constant flow of moisture that sustains its cloud-forest ecosystem.
Towering trees draped in orchids, bromeliads, ferns, vines, and mosses rise into the mist, sheltering more than 100 species of mammals, 1,500 plant species, and 400 bird species – including the Resplendent Quetzal.
Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you’ll explore a network of trails that crisscross this beautiful reserve.
Koora Boutique Hotel enjoys a peaceful setting above Santa Elena and is well positioned for day trips to the Monteverde and Santa Elena cloud forest reserves which are just a short drive away.
The property features 24 suites and bungalows – suites are located in the main building, while bungalows are tucked into lush gardens connected by walkways. Rooms are decorated in soothing tones of green and blue, with warm wood furnishings for a cozy, natural feel. Couples looking to treat themselves can opt for a suite with a private plunge pool, while families will love the split-level layouts with mezzanines.
The hotel’s restaurant, Kire, serves local and international dishes, with much of the produce sourced from the on-site garden. On clear days, its terrace offers beautiful views stretching to the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Ocean. After dinner, gather around the fire pit for a hot chocolate or a nightcap under the stars.
The adjoining Aguti Wildlife Reserve, home to ancient trees, diverse flora and fauna, and its namesake agouti – a rodent related to the guinea pig – features a 4-kilometre network of trails to explore independently or with a naturalist guide.
It’s a 1½-hour drive from Monteverde to the port of Puntarenas, where a local ferry departs several times a day for the one-hour crossing of the Gulf of Nicoya. Upon arrival in Paquera, you’ll be met by staff from Isla Chiquita staff and escorted on a short 10-minute water taxi ride to the island.
Isla Chiquita Glamping sits on a tiny island in the Gulf of Nicoya, just a 10-minute boat ride from Paquera on the eastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. If you’ve ever dreamed of camping on a deserted island, this friendly retreat could satisfy that curiosity —with elevated levels of comfort and style.
Each of the 19 tents is pitched on a wooden platform with a covered terrace and loungers. Spacious and furnished to a high standard, they feature comfortable beds, ceiling fans, and ensuite bathrooms. Upgrade options include tents with plunge pools and air conditioning. A tiered layout across the island ensures privacy, while those at the top enjoy sweeping views. This is a fun place for families to stay and the Family Tent with two tents connected by a large veranda is ideal.
There are two restaurants serving fresh seafood and a mix of local and international dishes. Both offer al fresco seating with Gulf views and a cooling breeze.
Although there’s a small stretch of beach, this isn’t a classic beach destination. For relaxation, visit the island’s spa, take part in a yoga class, or lounge in one of the beachfront cabanas and hammocks beneath the palms. There’s also a small swimming pool. For active guests, complimentary kayaks and paddleboards are available—it takes 1 ½ hours to circumnavigate the island—and a 45-minute Symbiosis trail winds through the island.
A particular highlight is a boat trip to witness bioluminescence—a magical natural phenomenon that makes the water sparkle at night. Other excursions, such as birdwatching, snorkelling, visiting a local oyster farm, and whale watching (August–October), can be booked locally for an additional cost.
After an action-packed 10 days in Costa Rica, it’s time to slow down with activities that will keep both children and parents happy. Lounge by the swimming pool or relax in one of the beachfront cabanas and hammocks scattered among the palm trees. Join a yoga class or indulge in a soothing spa treatment.
When you’re ready for more adventure, take advantage of complimentary kayaks and stand-up paddleboards – it takes about 1½ hours to circumnavigate the island – or explore the Symbiosis Trail that winds through its interior.
In the evening, you’ll have the chance to take a boat trip on the Gulf of Nicoya to witness bioluminescence, a natural phenomenon that makes the water sparkle at night.
Other optional excursions, such as snorkeling, visiting a local oyster farm, and whale watching (August–October), can be arranged locally for an additional cost.
Isla Chiquita Glamping sits on a tiny island in the Gulf of Nicoya, just a 10-minute boat ride from Paquera on the eastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. If you’ve ever dreamed of camping on a deserted island, this friendly retreat could satisfy that curiosity —with elevated levels of comfort and style.
Each of the 19 tents is pitched on a wooden platform with a covered terrace and loungers. Spacious and furnished to a high standard, they feature comfortable beds, ceiling fans, and ensuite bathrooms. Upgrade options include tents with plunge pools and air conditioning. A tiered layout across the island ensures privacy, while those at the top enjoy sweeping views. This is a fun place for families to stay and the Family Tent with two tents connected by a large veranda is ideal.
There are two restaurants serving fresh seafood and a mix of local and international dishes. Both offer al fresco seating with Gulf views and a cooling breeze.
Although there’s a small stretch of beach, this isn’t a classic beach destination. For relaxation, visit the island’s spa, take part in a yoga class, or lounge in one of the beachfront cabanas and hammocks beneath the palms. There’s also a small swimming pool. For active guests, complimentary kayaks and paddleboards are available—it takes 1 ½ hours to circumnavigate the island—and a 45-minute Symbiosis trail winds through the island.
A particular highlight is a boat trip to witness bioluminescence—a magical natural phenomenon that makes the water sparkle at night. Other excursions, such as birdwatching, snorkelling, visiting a local oyster farm, and whale watching (August–October), can be booked locally for an additional cost.
Continue by private transfer to Santa Teresa (1½ hours), a lively beach town on the southern shores of the Nicoya Peninsula, renowned for its surf, laid-back vibe, and beautiful sunsets
Nantipa derives from the indigenous Chorotegan word for blue, a fitting name for a property which sits facing the Pacific ocean and where you needn’t feel far from the natural soundtrack of the sea breeze and shore.
The native vegetation of the region has been allowed to proliferate in the grounds and gardens which feel natural rather than over-manicured. Life might indeed feel like a beach here: close to nature without compromise on comfort or quality. The informality of the restaurant, with tables virtually on the sands and beneath a traditional palm-thatch shelter, belies its sophisticated menu. In contrast to the rustic flavour of the hotel’s setting, the 15 guest bungalows and suites are ultra-contemporary. Discreetly tucked away within the grounds is a small swimming pool, while the laid back beach town of Santa Teresa is close enough to walk to if you fancy a change of scene.
Spend your time unwinding by the pool, strolling along endless sandy beaches, exploring tidal pools, or learning to surf.
It’s a one-hour drive from Santa Teresa to the ferry dock in Paquera, where a local ferry departs several times a day for the one-hour crossing of the Gulf of Nicoya. Upon arrival in Puntarenas, continue by road to San José airport (2 hours), allowing plenty of time to catch your international flight home.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Costa Rica - San Jose, central highlands and central valleys
The cultural and geographical heart of Costa Rica, where volcanic landscapes, coffee plantations, fertile valleys and historic towns surround the country’s busy capital. Central Highlands Costa Rica holidays and San José city break itineraries both tend to start here, combining culture, nature, cuisine and easy access to many of the country’s highlights.
Costa Rica - Caribbean coast
Volcanic-sand beaches, dense tropical rainforest, banana plantations and wildlife-filled waterways create a completely different atmosphere from the country’s Pacific shores on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. From the canals of Tortuguero National Park to laid-back Caribbean beach communities, this stretch of Caribbean Coast Costa Rica offers exceptional wildlife encounters and rich Afro-Caribbean culture.
Costa Rica - Arenal and the north
One of Costa Rica’s most iconic regions, where a perfectly conical volcano rises above rainforest, wildlife-rich reserves, hot springs and adventure-filled landscapes. From Arenal Volcano to cloud forest, hanging bridges and rushing rivers, this is Costa Rica at its most classic – and Arenal Volcano holidays remain some of the country’s most memorable.
Costa Rica - Monteverde and the cloud forest
Monteverde holidays offer the chance to explore one of Costa Rica’s richest cloud forests, where mist drifts through moss-covered trees and orchids thrive amongst abundant wildlife. Famous for its atmospheric scenery and spring-like climate, Monteverde is also one of the best places in Central America to spot the resplendent quetzal.
Costa Rica - Nicoya Peninsula
Costa Rica’s laid-back Pacific paradise, where long stretches of golden sand, hidden bays and coastal villages create the perfect beach escape. Separated from much of the country by the Gulf of Nicoya and Guanacaste’s dry ranching landscapes, the Nicoya Peninsula Costa Rica keeps largely to itself, offering a peaceful, authentic side of the country.
Renowned as one of the most peaceful and stable countries in the world, Costa Rica is home to some of the friendliest people in Latin America. Its extensive network of national parks and well‑maintained trails makes exploring nature easy and accessible, and the country’s passion for the outdoors has placed it at the forefront of adventure tourism.
Your trip begins with a guided waterborne exploration of Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast, where turtles nest between July and October. Continue to La Fortuna, at the base of the Arenal Volcano, for a range of adrenaline‑pumping activities before heading into the mystical cloud forests of Monteverde. Conclude your adventure on the Pacific coast among the islands and beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Rosie Kay
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Summary of Nights
15 days, 14 nights: San José 2; Tortuguero 2; Arenal 3; Monteverde 2; Isla Chiquita 2; Santa Teresa 3.
- Accommodation
We’ve handpicked a range of accommodations – from jungle lodges and small resorts to glamping and a beachfront hotel.
- Transport
1 flight by light aircraft; 5 scenic road journeys (max. 3 hours); 2 ferry crossings
- Meals
Breakfast: daily
Full board: days 3 & 4
Lunch: day 7
- Guides
Our local, trusted and carefully selected partners understand the expectations of our customers very well, and their staff and guides are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return.
On this holiday, you will be joined by different guides for each activity and or region, ensuring you benefit from specialised expertise and knowledge, often from someone local to the area.
- Optional Excursions
As well as any included activities, most Private Journeys include some free time for optional excursions. As optional excursions are often subject to availability, we recommend you discuss and arrange them with your Travel Expert as early as possible before you depart.
- When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Despite its small size, Costa Rica has a number of distinct microclimates. The best time for wildlife lovers to visit Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast may be from July-August to watch nesting turtles. However, the wettest months are September to October. The rest of the country experiences a dry season Dec-April, when there is plenty of sun and temperatures are high, and a rainy season from May-Nov. However, this is variation between regions: for example, the rainy season often starts a month earlier in the south Pacific, while the northern areas, including the Guanacaste coast, are not as affected by the seasons and are generally much drier. The highlands and cloud forests have warm temperatures during the day but the high altitude means evenings are much cooler.
For more detailed information on the best time to visit Costa Rica, go to our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Costa Rica?
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish.
- What is the national currency of Costa Rica?
Colón is the national currency of Costa Rica. Notes can be withdrawn from the many ATMs using a UK credit or debit card. There is at least one in most main towns. You may have to authorise your bank first, and withdrawals may be limited to amounts lower than in the UK. US dollars cash can be exchanged in banks too. US dollars themselves are widely accepted.
- What is the time difference between Costa Rica and the UK?
The time difference between the UK and Cosa Rica is GMT -5 hours.
- Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations are recommended for visiting Costa Rica?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What places combine well with Costa Rica?
- How do I get to Costa Rica?
To get to Costa Rica there are flights from London to San José via US and European hubs.
- What are the cultural and sport events in Costa Rica?
Some of the cultural events that take place in Costa Rica include:
International Arts Festival in San José in March with music, dance, and film art exhibitions. Monteverde Music Festival takes place in Monteverde between Jan – Feb.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Look out over the enormous crater of Poas volcano, with its vivid turquoise lake and frequent bursts of steam.
An early-morning kayaking trip through the backwaters of Tortuguero offers the chance to watch the jungle awake.
Watch an extraordinary natural event take place on Tortuguero’s beaches as giant leatherback turtles arrive en masse to lay their eggs.
Cross wobbly hanging bridges on a 3km trail through the tropical rainforest.
Bathe in steaming pools of naturally warm water set into a verdant river gorge.
See the resplendent quetzal in its natural habitat on a jungle trail through the cloud forest.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
A cosy boutique-style hotel adjoining the Aguti Wildlife Reserve in Monteverde.
Luxury glamping on a tiny island surrounded by nature and sea.
This rustic lodge is set on a narrow strip of land between the wildlife rich canals of Tortuguero National Park and the Caribbean Sea, accessible only by boat.
Papagaio
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