Costa Rican Volcanoes & Light Blue Rivers
Explore Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes with the Costa Rican Volcanoes & Light Blue Rivers package. Over 10 days, guests will venture through iconic volcanoes, pristine rivers, and rich wildlife. Begin at Rincón de la Vieja for volcanic hikes and hot springs, then enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting on the Tenorio River and the breathtaking turquoise waters of Río Celeste. Experience Arenal’s adventure sports, Monteverde’s lush cloud forests, and cultural insights at the traditional Sugar Mill. Conclude with relaxing beach days in Samara, featuring kayaking, snorkeling, and dolphin watching. This journey blends adventure, nature, and authentic Costa Rican experiences.
- Location:
San Jose City
- Arrival:
Juan Santamaria International Airport
- Departure:
Juan Santamaria International Airport
- Duration:
10 Days/9 Nights
- Category:
Travels and more…
ITINERARY:
Day 01: Arrival in Liberia, Costa Rica – Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
After passing through Immigration and Customs, please proceed to meet your EDT Representative, who will be warmly awaiting you with a sign displaying your name. Our team is here to ensure you feel welcome and at ease from the moment you arrive. Your representative is ready to assist you with any questions, guide you to your next steps, and ensure a smooth start to your adventure.
Start the approximate 50 minutes private transfer to your hotel.
Hacienda Guachipelin is a captivating destination nestled at the base of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in Costa Rica. This eco-friendly resort offers an authentic taste of Costa Rican culture, surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Visitors can explore the expansive property through various adventure activities, including horseback riding, zip-lining, and hiking to stunning waterfalls. The nearby hot springs provide a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration. Additionally, the hacienda’s commitment to sustainability and conservation makes it an ideal spot for eco-conscious travelers seeking adventure and tranquility in nature.
- Location:
Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
- Hotel:
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)
- Duration:
2 Nights
- Meals:
N/A
- Service:
Transfer Airport – hotel – Overnight Staying – Horseback Riding to Las Pailas Trails
Day 02: Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
After breakfast, you’ll begin an exciting tour to Las Pailas.
Explore the Las Pailas Trail on Horseback
Hiking at Rincon de la Vieja Volcano is a must-do Costa Rican adventure! This Guanacaste day tour blends hiking and horseback riding. From Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin, ride friendly ranch horses for 45 minutes through a forest trail to the Las Pailas entrance. Las Pailas, meaning “the cauldrons,” showcases the power of Rincon de la Vieja, the largest active volcano in Guanacaste. Witness steam and sulfur vents, hot volcanic pools, and bubbling mud pits.
The 2.5-mile Las Pailas loop trail takes you through dry forest, offering stunning views of the volcano and its volcanic activity. The path crosses rivers, passing small waterfalls, and is home to over 300 bird species and wildlife like monkeys, armadillos, iguanas and the famous Tamandua (anteater).
- Location:
Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
- Hotel:
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Dinner
- Service:
Transfer Airport – hotel – Overnight Staying – Horseback Riding to Las Pailas Trails
Day 03: Rincon de la Vieja Volcano – Tenorio Volcano
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and get ready for an exciting adventure to the Tenorio River, which can also be switched to a floating experience. This trip includes lunch.
Tenorio River Experience
The Tenorio River features thrilling class III and IV rapids, challenging both seasoned and novice rafters. All participants must be in good physical condition. Be sure to wear swim trunks and comfortable clothes, along with rubber-soled shoes that can get wet. Don’t forget sunblock, secure sunglasses, and a snug-fitting hat, as well as a change of dry clothes and shoes.
Upon arrival, your river guides will provide safety equipment, including lifejackets, helmets, and paddles, along with a comprehensive safety briefing. The river adventure lasts about two hours and concludes with a snack of fresh fruit, cookies, and beverages. Afterward, we’ll drive less than an hour to the restaurant for a delicious hot lunch, with restroom and changing facilities available.
The Tenorio River offers a range of exciting challenges, including a unique 12-foot drop (class V), which may vary depending on weather and water levels. Participants can opt to skip the drop or any rapids they find intimidating. Experience breathtaking scenery and amazing wildlife on this unforgettable journey!
After your rafting adventure and lunch, continue your journey to the Tenorio Volcano Region, arriving in the mid-afternoon.
Tapir Valley Night Walk
In the evening, enjoy a unique nocturnal experience in the Tapir Valley. This tour offers an unforgettable rainforest adventure for nature enthusiasts and future conservationists. Whether in the morning or evening, no two tours are the same. You’ll encounter fascinating creatures like frogs, snakes, spiders, and possibly nocturnal animals like kinkajous and sleeping birds. While sightings of the endangered Baird’s tapir are rare, the thrill of finding evidence of its presence at night is unmatched.
Guided by an expert naturalist, this tour is customized to your group’s interests, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone. As your eyes adjust to the darkness, you’ll begin spotting even the tiniest creatures in this truly immersive journey into nature.
- Location:
Tenorio Volcano
- Hotel:
Celeste Mountain Lodge (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Service:
Rafting on the Tenorio River-Tapir Valley Night Tour
Day 04: Tenorio Volcano – Arenal Volcano
After breakfast, begin your day with an exploration of Rio Celeste (Light Blue River), a major regional highlight.
Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park
On this approximate 3-hour guided tour, discover why Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park are celebrated biodiversity hotspots in Costa Rica. The park features remarkable trails that lead through varied habitats, including Rainforest, Cloud, and lowland tropical forests.
With these diverse ecosystems, you’ll have many chances to spot wildlife such as howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, and butterflies. Your guide will lead you through the lush forest, revealing Río Celeste’s famous turquoise waters — a truly mesmerizing sight. The journey ends at the stunning Río Celeste waterfall, a natural wonder worth the hike.
Note: Tenorio National Park has trails of varying difficulty. The 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) round-trip hike takes about 30 minutes from the park entrance to the waterfall. This tour suits travelers in good physical condition, free of knee, hip, or heart conditions.
After your visit to Rio Celeste, enjoy lunch at your own expense at one of the local dining spots nearby.
Following lunch, you’ll continue your journey to the Arenal Volcano region, approximately a 2-hour drive away. Before arriving at your hotel, there will be a stop at La Fortuna town. La Fortuna, once a quiet farmland, transformed into a vibrant tourist destination following the dramatic eruptions of Arenal Volcano in 1968. Today, it offers stunning views of the volcano and lush surroundings. The town features a variety of restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and supermarkets, making it a lively hub for visitors in a marvelous blend of locals and enthusiastic visitors.
Expect to arrive in Arenal in the late afternoon.
Notes: National Park entrance fee is included.
- Location:
Arenal Volcano
- Hotel:
Hotel Los Lagos (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
Rio Celeste River & Waterfall Hike.
Day 05: Arenal Volcano
Arenal Lake Land & Water Adventure
After breakfast, explore the best of Arenal Lake with our 4-in-1 Lake & Water Adventure Combo, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, a boat ride, and hiking in Arenal National Park. Arenal Lake, Costa Rica’s largest, was created in 1974 for hydroelectric power and is home to diverse bird species and occasional mammals. The Lake & Water adventure allows you to choose your activities or enjoy all four at your own pace. This self-drive experience requires you to meet at the Blue Pass location by the lake, entries and national park fee are included.
Lunch is on your own in La Fortuna.
Aguas termales Baldi con cena
Finish your day by relaxing in the hot springs at Baldi Resort, located at the foot of Arenal Volcano. The resort features 25 geothermally heated mineral pools, ranging from 93 to 152°F, a waterslide, and tropical gardens. Kids will love the Baldi Kids attraction with shallow pools and small slides. While not included, the resort offers spa treatments and dining options. Your entrance includes a buffet dinner with a natural drink. You can arrive at Baldi as early as 4:00 PM if you’d like to enjoy more time. Dinner is available at 7:00 PM.
- Location:
Arenal Volcano
- Hotel:
Hotel Los Lagos (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Dinner
- Service:
Rio Celeste River & Waterfall Hike.
Day 06: Arenal - Monteverde
Lake Crossing
Shared transfer service by land and water from Arenal to Rio Chiquito.
After breakfast, you’ll travel from Arenal to Monteverde by land-boat transfer. Depending on your location, you’ll drive briefly to the embarkation site at Arenal Lake. Once there, board the Lake Crossing Boat to Rio Chiquito, where you can spot birds such as cormorants, herons, and egrets. Upon arrival in Rio Chiquito, land transport will take you along rural roads to Monteverde.
Monteverde is famous for its stunning cloud forests and biodiversity. Initially settled by Quakers in the 1950s, the area has become a hub for ecotourism and conservation. It’s home to the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can explore trails, spot unique wildlife, and enjoy the misty landscape. Attractions like zip-lining, hanging bridges, and coffee tours offer adventure and local cultural experiences.
Upon arrival in Santa Elena, enjoy lunch at one of the town’s many dining options (at your own expense). Santa Elena offers a mix of adventure and local culture, with delicious Costa Rican cuisine and unique souvenirs.
Sugar Mill and Coffee Tour
In the mid-afternoon you’ll visit the Sugar Mill and Coffee Tour.
The visit to the Monteverde Sugar Mill will tell you the story that begging with Mr. Higinio Santamaría moved from San Ramón to Monteverde, a journey by ox cart that took 15 days. Thirteen years later, his son, Juan Santamaría Campos, partnered to buy a diesel-powered mill. Years later, the current owner, Juan de Dios Santamaría Hidalgo, transformed the farm into an agro-tourism site in 2005, showcasing Costa Rican culture. Visitors can explore coffee and sugar cane plantations, learn traditional processes, and create their own cane juice-based sweets.
Note: Crossing the lake is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of Arenal Volcano (on clear days) and the magical scenery surrounding the lake. The roads in the area are gravel, adding an authentic touch to this enriching journey through Costa Rica’s natural beauty. It’s worth noting that due to the tropical climate, strong winds can sometimes occur.
- Location:
Monteverde
- Hotel:
Hotel Poco a Poco (o similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
Lake crossing from Arenal to Monteverde, Sugar Mill and Coffee Tour
Day 07: Monteverde – Samara Beach
After breakfast, get ready for your adventure of the day.
Selvatura Hanging Bridges
This experience offers a breathtaking journey through the cloud forest canopy, featuring a complex of suspension bridges and rainforest trails that allow you to explore the lush surroundings from above. Spanning over 3 kilometers, the bridges provide stunning views of the vibrant flora and fauna while offering opportunities to spot wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds, in their natural habitat and the interesting process of the diverse epiphytic plants, including orchids, ferns, mosses, and aerial roots, enriches the forest’s charm. From the forest floor to the treetops, visitors uncover an intricate ecosystem thriving in the canopy, where plants compete for sunlight. This delicate interplay reveals the hidden wonders of nature, offering a deeper connection to the cloud forest. With its unparalleled beauty and commitment to conservation, Selvatura invites visitors to immerse in the wonders of the cloud forest.
After the Selvatura Adventure, you’ll have time for lunch (at your own expense) in La Fortuna or its surroundings. Following lunch, depart for the approximately three-hour drive to the Nicoya Peninsula, specifically to Playa Samara.
Expect to arrive in Samara in the late afternoon.
Playa Samara is a charming coastal village located on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, known for its stunning beach and laid-back atmosphere. The beach features soft golden sand and gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and water sports. Lined with swaying palm trees, Playa Samara offers a variety of amenities, including beachfront restaurants, cafes, and shops. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and horseback riding, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.
- Location:
Samara Beach
- Hotel:
Villas Playa Samara (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
Selvatura Park in Monteverde with Hanging Bridges and Zipline.
Day 08: Samara Beach
Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling
Experience the thrill of a low tide kayaking adventure to Chora Island! Paddle approximately 30 minutes each way across the pristine waters from the coast to Isla Chora. Once there, dive into crystal-clear waters and uncover vibrant coral reefs filled with colorful fish, playful sea turtles, and fascinating invertebrates. This 3-hour tour suits both beginners and experienced kayakers, offering a perfect way to connect with nature. As you paddle, soak in the breathtaking coastal views and the tranquil beauty of Samara’s stunning landscape.
Afternoon at leisure.
- Location:
Samara Beach
- Hotel:
Villas Playa Samara (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
Selvatura Park in Monteverde with Hanging Bridges and Zipline.
Day 09: Samara Beach
Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
Join an unforgettable marine wildlife tour focused on dolphin spotting and snorkeling, with the bonus possibility of whale sightings during specific seasons—July to October and mid-December to March. While dolphin encounters and snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs are the tour’s main highlights, you may also have the chance to glimpse magnificent whales during these months. After observing the marine life, slip into the clear ocean to snorkel among tropical fish. Back on board, relax with refreshing drinks and fresh fruit in the boat’s shade. This experience combines adventure and stunning coastal views.
Afternoon at leisure.
- Location:
Samara Beach
- Hotel:
Villas Playa Samara (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
Selvatura Park in Monteverde with Hanging Bridges and Zipline.
Day 10: Samara Beach – Liberia Airport
Meals included: Breakfast
At a convenient time, start the approximate 3 hours transfer to the Liberia Airport.
End of services
HOTELS
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
The lodge is a nature-inspired retreat nestled at the base of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano in Costa Rica. This rustic eco-lodge offers comfortable rooms and suites designed with authentic Costa Rican charm, surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Guests can immerse themselves in adventure with horseback riding, zip-lining, and guided hikes to nearby waterfalls and natural hot springs. The hotel features a refreshing pool, spa, and a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine crafted from local ingredients. With breathtaking views, natural beauty, and a commitment to sustainability, Hacienda Guachipelin provides a unique, unforgettable experience in the heart of Guanacaste.
Rio Celeste Mountain Lodge
An eco-friendly haven located near the renowned Rio Celeste in Costa Rica’s Tenorio Volcano National Park. The lodge offers cozy, rustic accommodations that blend seamlessly with the lush rainforest surroundings, providing modern comforts alongside vibrant nature views. Guests can enjoy a restaurant with locally inspired cuisine, plus a lounge with panoramic views of the mountainous landscape. Adventure awaits with activities like guided hikes to the stunning blue waters of Rio Celeste, birdwatching, and exploring nearby trails. Rio Celeste Mountain Lodge is ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility, sustainable hospitality, and authentic Costa Rican beauty.
Hotel Los Lagos
This is a tropical paradise located near the Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica, offering spacious accommodations with scenic views and modern comforts. Set within lush rainforest, this resort is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy multiple pools with natural hot springs, thrilling waterslides, and a swim-up bar for ultimate relaxation. The hotel also features a spa, butterfly garden, and on-site restaurant serving fresh, local cuisine. With easy access to zip-lining, horseback riding, and guided nature tours, Hotel Los Lagos provides an ideal escape to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty, luxury amenities, and family-friendly fun.
Hotel Poco a Poco
This is a cozy boutique retreat nestled in the heart of Monteverde, Costa Rica, blending modern comfort with the charm of cloud forest surroundings. Its well-appointed rooms offer warmth and convenience, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration. Guests can enjoy an outdoor heated pool, a relaxing spa, and an on-site restaurant serving fresh, local flavors. With its lush gardens and close proximity to Monteverde’s famous cloud forest reserves, Poco a Poco offers access to birdwatching, canopy tours, and hiking. This eco-friendly hotel combines warm hospitality with nature’s beauty, perfect for an immersive Monteverde experience.
Hotel Villas Playa Samara
Villas Playa Samara is a beachfront paradise on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, offering spacious villas and suites surrounded by lush tropical landscapes. Each villa is designed for comfort, featuring full kitchens, living spaces, and terraces that invite guests to relax with ocean or garden views. Steps from Samara’s beautiful, tranquil beach, the resort provides easy access to water activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Amenities include an outdoor pool, a spa, and an on-site restaurant serving fresh, locally inspired cuisine. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, Villas Playa Samara delivers a serene escape where nature and comfort meet effortlessly.
