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Essential Costa Rica with Guanacaste


  • National Theatre of Costa Rica - Lumle holidays
  • costa-rica-lake
  • turtle-costa-rica
  • Arenal

Essential Costa Rica with Guanacaste

 Costa Rica

11 days from $3174pp return flights
Now $1569pp Save $1605pp-51%

Discover the Essence of Costa Rica on this immersive 10-day adventure that reveals the true beauty and spirit of this incredible destination.

At a Glance

  • Costa Rica adventure covering must-see spots
  • Explore Tortuguero, Arenal Volcano, and Monteverde
  • Stay 9 nights in handpicked accommodations
  • Includes 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners
  • Guided by English- and Spanish-speaking local experts
  • Air-conditioned transport and private airport transfers
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Discover the Essence of Costa Rica on this immersive adventure that reveals the true beauty and spirit of this incredible destination. Beginning and ending in the vibrant capital of San Jose, this carefully curated tour invites you to explore the iconic landscapes and diverse wildlife that make Costa Rica a dream destination. Experience the breathtaking Arenal Volcano National Park, the enchanting cloud forest of Monteverde, and the lively, sun-kissed shores of Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated beaches. Embrace the local culture and adventurous atmosphere while enjoying this unforgettable journey.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

San Jose: Explore the cultural heart of Costa Rica, founded in the mid-18th century. Wander through museums, marvel at the European-inspired National Theatre, and stroll the historic neighborhoods filled with charm and character.

Tortuguero: Discover the magical nesting grounds of green sea turtles in Tortuguero National Park. This unique area offers pristine beaches and is an ideal place to spot diverse wildlife and bird species.

Arenal: Experience one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes, surrounded by lush trails and diverse wildlife. Arenal Volcano National Park offers endless opportunities for exploration and awe-inspiring views.

Monteverde: Enter the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, settled by American Quakers in the 1950s. This unique ecosystem, comprised of six different “life zones,” is home to endangered species and a wide range of fascinating plant life.

Tamarindo: A lively coastal town famous for its bustling surfing scene and energetic atmosphere. Tamarindo is the perfect place to enjoy beach life, fine dining, and an authentic taste of Costa Rica’s vibrant culture.

The short itinerary

Day 1 : DEPART NEW YORK / ARRIVAL SAN JOSE
Day 2 : SAN JOSE – TORTUGUERO (135KM – 4 HRS BY ROAD / 2 HRS BY BOAT)
Day 3 : TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Day 4 : TORTUGUERO – ARENAL (210KM – 5 HRS BY ROAD / 2 HRS BY BOAT)
Day 5 : ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK
Day 6 : ARENAL – MONTEVERDE (60KM – 2.5 HRS BY ROAD / 45 MIN BY BOAT)
Day 7 : MONTEVERDE
Day 8 : MONTEVERDE – PACIFIC COAST (190KM – 4 HRS)
Day 9 : PACIFIC COAST
Day 10 : LEISURE DAY, RELAX OR EXPLORE SAN JOSE AT YOUR OWN PACE
Day 11 : PACIFIC COAST – DEPART SAN JOSE (260KM – 4.5 HRS)

Day 1 : DEPART NEW YORK / ARRIVAL SAN JOSE

Depart NEW YORK. Upon arrival to bustling San Jose, our representative will meet and greet you and then direct you to your transport, which will drop you off at your hotel in San Jose for your night in Costa Rica.

Overnight in San Jose.

Day 2 : SAN JOSE – TORTUGUERO (135KM – 4 HRS BY ROAD / 2 HRS BY BOAT)

Your day begins early with a morning departure, travelling by bus through the Braulio Carrillo National Park towards the Caribbean plains to enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery and quaint villages. Indulge in a tasty breakfast en route and continue through the jungle by boat, cruising the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. Arrive at your eco-lodge and enjoy a tasty lunch. Board the boat again for a visit to Tortuguero village, where you will get to walk around town, stroll along the beach, and experience the locals’ way of living. During the turtle hatching season, we will look for the baby turtles trying to find their way down to the ocean. Nesting is from July to September and hatching from September to December. Enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel, surrounded by the beautiful tropical forest and wildlife. Lunch and Dinner included.

Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 3 : TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK

Today you will have some free time to relax by the pool and experience the Tortuguero National Park on a three-hour trip. Observe over 350 protected species of birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and sloths, as well as lush vegetation. During the July to September season, you can join an optional late-night turtle nesting tour, purchasable directly at the lodge. Lunch and dinner included.

Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 4 : TORTUGUERO – ARENAL (210KM – 5 HRS BY ROAD / 2 HRS BY BOAT)

Early in the morning depart by boat back to Guapiles. From there, take the ground transportation to the restaurant for lunch. After a tasty meal, you will be picked up in a shared transfer and taken to the Arenal area. Enjoy the day at leisure to explore on your own or participate in an exciting optional activity.

Termas de Tabacón Option: Live the Tabacón experience that has swimming pools and a river of hot springs that come from the veins of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Explore the wonders of the tropical forest surrounding this beautiful resort and enjoy mineral waters with different temperatures, surrounded by warm waterfalls and tropical gardens. The Tabacón hot springs are recognized worldwide, and without a doubt, immersing yourself in them will make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated, due to the minerals present in the volcanic waters.

Includes: transportation, bilingual guide, entrance, dinner

Ecotermales Hot Springs Option: Escape to the natural paradise, with all the necessary amenities to make your experience a memorable experience, surrounded by the peace and serenity of the rainforest, and protected by the impressive Arenal Volcano, which heats and nourishes the waters of Ecothermal. During your stay, you will enjoy the pleasure of feeling the natural energy coming from the veins of the Arenal Colossus, heating the fountains where thermal water pools are born, ranging from 37 °C to 41 °C (99 °F to 106 °F). When combined with the pool and the cold water waterfall, they perform a relaxing massage throughout the body.

Includes: transportation, bilingual guide, entrance, dinner

Departure approx: 15:00 hrs | Duration approx: 6 hrs

Overnight in Arenal.

Day 5 : ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK

Today after breakfast, take a guided walking tour in Arenal Volcano National Park. During the tour, the guide will explain the periods of activity the once very active volcano experienced. Enjoy the verdant landscapes and the backdrop of the now-dormant volcano, as you keep a lookout for the wild animals living in this national park. You have the chance to spot sloths, howler monkeys, anteaters, and many others.

Afterwards, return to the hotel with the afternoon at leisure to participate in an optional activity, either adventure or nature.

Optional extras:

Zipline Adventure: Costa Rica zip line tour is a genuine must in a vacation. You will have doses of fun and adrenaline-filled adventure that you will remember forever. You will start the tour as you arrive at the base of the Ecoglide Arenal Park and your professional guide gives you instructions and some safety tips. The zipline tour consists of 13 cables of two wires traveling in parallel and 15 platforms, most of which are in the trees so that visitors can have more contact and closeness with nature, flora, and fauna of the rainforest. Within the tour, you will also discover the Tarzan Swing where you will swing from a platform into the forest feeling the adrenaline rising.

Inclusions: Transportation, Bilingual Guide, Entrance Fee, Equipment

Departure approx: 07:40 hrs / 09:40 hrs / 11:40 hrs / 13:40 hrs / 15:20 hrs | Duration approx: 3 hrs.

La Fortuna Waterfall: This tour begins by descending the 500-meter trail to the magnificent Waterfall, renowned for its 60-meter (197 feet) high falls and its crystal-clear waters. Along the trail, you will observe plants, trees, and animals, which inhabit the area. You can choose to swim in its refreshing waters, take amazing photographs, or simply relax and take in all the beauty of the La Fortuna Waterfall. When you visit the La Fortuna Waterfall you not only get to enjoy this marvellous natural wonder, you will be helping to support the Development Association of the community as 100% of the entrance fee goes towards social projects to benefit schools, nutritional centres, the orphanage, our roads and more.

Inclusions: Transportation, Bilingual Guide, Entrance Fee

Departure approx: 08:00 hrs / 13:00 hrs | Duration approx: 3 hrs.

Overnight in Arenal.

Day 6 : ARENAL – MONTEVERDE (60KM – 2.5 HRS BY ROAD / 45 MIN BY BOAT)

Begin the day with an early breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out and head towards Monteverde. Transfer down to Arenal Lake where you will board a boat that will take you across towards Monteverde. Once on the other side, a vehicle awaits to take you up to Monteverde. Admire the transition of the rainforest to the cloud forest where you will reach an altitude of 1,200 metres above sea level. Located in the Puntarenas province, Monteverde is a place of cloud forests and mist, coffee plantations, monkeys, and friendly locals. The town of Santa Elena is small and quaint, filled with inviting restaurants and folksy artisan shops, while the nearby rainforest hosts a remarkable amount of biodiversity. Enjoy the day at leisure to explore on your own or participate in an exciting optional activity like the Selvatura Treetop Walkway guided tour, which includes a 3-hour hike along a network of trails and suspension bridges in the cloud forest of Monteverde. Be on the lookout for birds, monkeys, sloths, insects, and interesting plants of all shapes and sizes. The Selvatura Treetop Walkway guided tour takes you through and above the rainforest. A series of eight suspension bridges, connected by trails for a total 3 km in length, provides a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest canopy!

If adventure is not something you are interested in, join the interesting Don Juan Coffee Tour to understand Costa Rica’s coffee, chocolate and sugar cane production (with the emphasis on coffee!). The tour offers an interesting opportunity to learn about coffee and its production as well as to get close to the fascinating Costa Rican folklore.

The optional tours are not included

Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 7 : MONTEVERDE

After a nourishing breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Founded in 1972, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is world-famous for its outstanding biodiversity, conservation actions and contributions, as well as scientific research. The reserve is home to 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, and it is one of the most important private reserves, not just in Costa Rica but the world. It hosts hundreds of species of mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, insects and arachnids, as well as a large variety of flora, such as mosses, vines or the autochthonous trees of the cloud forest. You can enhance today’s experience by joining one of the memorable tours you missed yesterday. Whether you choose to explore the cloud forest during the Selvatura Treetop Walkway guided tour, or you prefer getting closer to the fascinating Costa Rican culture while on the Don Juan Coffee tour, your day will be unforgettable. Selvatura Treetop Walkaway and Don Juan Coffee tours are not included.

Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 8 : MONTEVERDE – PACIFIC COAST (190KM – 4 HRS)

This morning after breakfast, head towards a stunning beachside destination, in the mesmerising area of Guanacaste. On arrival, take the rest of the day to explore the surroundings, stroll the beautifully arranged streets of Tamarindo, a lovely beach town in Guanacaste, or relax while enjoying hotel facilities.

Overnight in Pacific Coast.

Day 9 : PACIFIC COAST

Tamarindo is a lively destination where you can have some fun, enjoy the warm sun, and relax on the spectacular beach. If you are feeling adventurous, jump on a board and try your hand at surfing Tamarindo's famous waves. Have the day at leisure to explore the area or relax at the hotel facilities.

Overnight in Pacific Coast.

Day 10 : LEISURE DAY, RELAX OR EXPLORE SAN JOSE AT YOUR OWN PACE

Today is yours to unwind at your own pace, soaking in the warmth of Costa Rica's tropical charm. Take time to relax, reflect on cherished memories from your journey, and let the experiences settle in. If you’re feeling adventurous, the day invites you to venture out and explore the surrounding area at your own rhythm. Whether you choose to savour some peaceful downtime or dive into one last discovery, today is all about embracing Costa Rica's magic in your own unique way.

Breakfast included.

Day 11 : PACIFIC COAST – DEPART SAN JOSE (260KM – 4.5 HRS)

Begin your last day in spectacular Costa Rica with a delectable breakfast. Then, at the appropriate time, transfer to Juan Santamaria International Airport to catch your flight back home or on to your next destination.

Breakfast included.

What's included

  • FLIGHTS: Return flight from NEW YORK
  • TOUR GUIDE: Operated with Bilingual Spanish and English-speaking licensed local guides on a shared basis. Please note you will be accompanied by local guides for the activities only. There is no guarantee that you will be part of a group, or part of the same group during the tour.
  • ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights' accommodation
  • MEALS: 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches on days 2, 3, 4 and 2 dinners on days 2, 3
  • TRANSPORT: Air-conditioned transportation as indicated in the itinerary on a shared basis; Private return transfer from/to the San Jose airport; Tour guides do not accompany guests during transport
  • ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES: All monuments and visits as indicated: Guided visit to Tortuguero village plus guided boat tour through Tortuguero National Park canals and entrance fee to Tortuguero National Park, guided hike in Arenal Volcano National Park, guided hike in Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.
  • OTHER: Meet and greet on Day 1; Hotel taxes

What's not included

  • VISAS: Any visa fees or travel permits required for entry into Costa Rica.
  • FLIGHT BAGGAGE: Checked in baggage
  • TRAVEL INSURANCE: Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended for all travelers.
  • MEALS: Meals other than those specified in the itinerary (additional lunches and dinners not listed under “What's included”).
  • OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES: Any optional tours or activities not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary.
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES: Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, telephone calls, and snacks.
  • GRATUITIES: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
  • OTHER EXPENSES: Any other costs not specifically listed under "What's included."
Start Date End Date Price Note AVAILABILITY Booking
Mon, 9 Dec, 24 Thu, 19 Dec, 24 $3555 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 13 Jan, 25 Thu, 23 Jan, 25 $2013 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 27 Jan, 25 Thu, 6 Feb, 25 $2013 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 3 Feb, 25 Thu, 13 Feb, 25 $2013 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 17 Feb, 25 Thu, 27 Feb, 25 $2013 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 3 Mar, 25 Thu, 13 Mar, 25 $2140 GUARANTEED Book Now
Tue, 1 Apr, 25 Fri, 11 Apr, 25 $2920 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 21 Apr, 25 Thu, 1 May, 25 $2793 GUARANTEED Book Now
Tue, 6 May, 25 Fri, 16 May, 25 $1759 Limited availability GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 19 May, 25 Thu, 29 May, 25 $1562 Limited availability GUARANTEED Book Now
Sun, 1 Jun, 25 Wed, 11 Jun, 25 $1759 Limited availability GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 7 Jul, 25 Thu, 17 Jul, 25 $2920 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 21 Jul, 25 Thu, 31 Jul, 25 $3047 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 11 Aug, 25 Thu, 21 Aug, 25 $3174 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 18 Aug, 25 Thu, 28 Aug, 25 $3174 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 8 Sep, 25 Thu, 18 Sep, 25 $1569 Limited availability GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 22 Sep, 25 Thu, 2 Oct, 25 $1759 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 6 Oct, 25 Thu, 16 Oct, 25 $1759 Limited availability GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 20 Oct, 25 Thu, 30 Oct, 25 $2158 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 3 Nov, 25 Thu, 13 Nov, 25 $2158 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 17 Nov, 25 Thu, 27 Nov, 25 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 1 Dec, 25 Thu, 11 Dec, 25 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 12 Jan, 26 Thu, 22 Jan, 26 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 2 Feb, 26 Thu, 12 Feb, 26 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 9 Mar, 26 Thu, 19 Mar, 26 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 20 Apr, 26 Thu, 30 Apr, 26 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 4 May, 26 Thu, 14 May, 26 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 1 Jun, 26 Thu, 11 Jun, 26 $1969 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 6 Jul, 26 Thu, 16 Jul, 26 $3682 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 3 Aug, 26 Thu, 13 Aug, 26 $3682 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 7 Sep, 26 Thu, 17 Sep, 26 $2285 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 5 Oct, 26 Thu, 15 Oct, 26 $2285 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 2 Nov, 26 Thu, 12 Nov, 26 $2285 GUARANTEED Book Now
Tue, 1 Dec, 26 Fri, 11 Dec, 26 GUARANTEED Book Now
If you wish to travel on any other date than dates above or have any other queries please call our office at 1-888-214-4856 or email to sales@lumle.com

A private departures on any day all around the year can be arranged for this trek/tour, for more details and dates E-mail sales@lumle.com

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

OPENED: This date is available and open for bookings.
LIMITED: There are very limited number of available places on this departure. Immediate booking.
GUARANTEED: We have reached minimum numbers and this trip is guaranteed to depart.
CLOSED: This date is currently unavailable. Please contact us, if you are interested in travelling on this date.

Your Program Duration = 11 Days
All the Prices are in USD ($) Per Person.

Please note:

  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed.
  • Recommended departure time from 15:00 hrs.
  • On day 10: drop off at San Jose International Airport around 12 pm. Please arrange your departure flight accordingly.
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems, security reasons, or Corona restrictions.

What do I need to bring?

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Costa Rica. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Accommodation:

City Standard Superior Deluxe
San Jose Sleep Inn Park Inn Hilton San Jose La Sabana
Tortuguero Pachira Lodge Evergreen Lodge Aninga Lodge
Arenal Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge Arenal Springs Arenal Kioro
Monteverde Monteverde Country Lodge Poco a Poco Fonda Vela Hotel
Tamarindo Seis Playas Hotel Wyndham Tamarindo Tamarindo Diriá
Package (2 nights in Tamarindo) Seis Playas Hotel Wyndham Tamarindo Tamarindo Diriá
Post-night in San Jose Sleep Inn Park Inn Hilton San Jose La Sabana

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Travel Info

    • Flight time 10 hours San Jose (via Panama City; Bogotá; São Paulo and Miami)
    • Time zone UTC -6
    • Recommended airlines Jet Blue, Avianca, Latam, United Airlines and American Airlines
    • Best season Sep-Nov (mild); Nov-Mar (warmest). There are two seasons in the Amazon Rainforest: wet (January to June) and dry (July to December).
    • Visa US citizens do not need a tourist visa. The information provided herewith at the current time can be subject to change at concise notice. It's your responsibility to ensure you meet entry requirements before you travel.
    • Capital San Jose

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