Costa Rican Jewels Coast to Coast
Experience Costa Rica’s breathtaking beauty with this 10-day Coast to Coast tour, from Tortuguero’s lush canals to Manuel Antonio’s pristine beaches. Begin in vibrant San Jose before heading to Tortuguero National Park, where you’ll spot diverse wildlife and experience the culture of a Caribbean village. Then, journey to Arenal for thrilling activities, including hiking the Mistico Hanging Bridges and relaxing in thermal hot springs. In Monteverde, explore the magical cloud forest and Costa Rican traditions at a coffee farm. Finally, unwind at Manuel Antonio, with its stunning beaches, tropical forests, and snorkeling adventures.
- 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 San Jose, Costa Rica
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 30 minutes private transfer to your hotel.
- Location:
San Jose City
- Hotel:
Grano de Oro (or similar)
- Duration:
1 Night
- Meals:
N/A
- Service:
Transfer Airport – hotel – Overnight Staying
Day 02: San Jose - Tortuguero
In the morning, prepare for the approximately 3-hour drive to the La Pavona Boat Pier, breakfast will be included enroute.
At around 10:30 AM, board the boat that will take you through the scenic Tortuguero Canals to your lodge.
You’ll arrive just on time for lunch.
In the afternoon, explore the charming Tortuguero town and the Chocolate Tour.
Visit to Tortuguero Village
Join us for a village tour to explore the rich history of Tortuguero and discover why this town holds such significance for Costa Rica. Tortuguero Village, nestled on the Caribbean coast, began as a small fishing community and has since blossomed into a vibrant cultural hub. Rich in Afro-Caribbean heritage, it is celebrated for its eco-conscious spirit. Since the 1950s, locals have championed sea turtle conservation, attracting tourists from around the world. This eco-tourism has shaped the village’s social life, creating a unique blend of local culture and global influences.
As we stroll through the streets, you’ll experience the local culture and the warm hospitality of the community firsthand. You’ll have the chance to explore the beach, find a special souvenir, savor delicious Caribbean cuisine, and take in the charming sights and sounds of this unique town.
In the afternoon, continue to the Chocolate Tour
Casa Cecropia Chocolate Tour
We start visiting our orchard (right next to the lecture room – almost no walking), to see the cocoa trees, its flowers and fruits. We will review the tree natural history and its cultural importance for Tortuguero and Costa Rica.
Inside the Caribbean style house and around our working table, we explain the artisanal process of harvesting, fermenting and drying the cocoa beans. It is a trip back in time to the ancient cultures of the Mayas, Aztecs and other Central American people, where cocoa was used as a ceremonial drink and as currency. It is a tour full of Colonial and Caribbean pirate stories, aromas and degustation of the “food of the gods” bean-to-cup and bean-to-bar. You will be “hands on” tasting the cocoa fruit, roasting the beans, separating the husk, grinding the beans on the table stone the indigenous way, and enjoying the indigenous and colonial chocolate beverage. We will talk about the industrial process; the cocoa butter; the dark, milk & white chocolate; the artisanal craft chocolate factories. By the end you will grind your own artisanal chocolate on the table stone.
Notes: The Turtle Nesting Tour (between July and October) and the Early Morning Boat Tour are not included.
- Location:
Tortuguero National Park
- Hotel:
Aninga Lodge
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Service:
Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour, Tortuguero Village, Cano Palma Tour, Chocolate Tour, entrance fee to the National Park
Day 03: Tortuguero National Park
Today, two activities are included:
Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour
Tortuguero is home to incredible biodiversity, with three species of monkeys, over 400 species of birds, as well as reptiles and amphibians such as iguanas, American crocodiles, caimans, freshwater turtles, and a wide variety of mammals. Among the monkeys, you can find the mantled howler, the white-faced capuchin, and the Central American spider monkey—three of the four types that inhabit Costa Rica’s forests.
The boat tour is in the mornings, the duration of the tour is two hours approximately.
Return to the lodge for lunch.
Canoieng or Kayaking Caño Palma
In the afternoon you can join one of the options tours offered at the lodge and that EDT has included as a part of your itinerary, you can choose between the Canoeing or the Kayaking at Caño Palma.
Kayaking or Canoeing through the Caño Palma Canal in Tortuguero is a unique, immersive experience that takes you deep into the natural wonders of Costa Rica. This narrow canal, shaded by dense palms, is known for its dark, tannin-rich waters that flow under a canopy of tropical vegetation. It’s an ideal route offering many opportunities for spotting abundant birdlife, including herons, egrets, and other aquatic species. The peaceful pace of paddling allows visitors to observe wildlife up close, often catching glimpses of monkeys, sloths, and caimans along the shores.
- Location:
Tortuguero National Park
- Hotel:
Aninga Lodge
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Service:
Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour, Tortuguero Village, Cano Palma Tour, Chocolate Tour, entrance fee to the National Park
Day 04: Tortuguero National Park – Arenal Volcano
Start your day with an early breakfast, then board the boat for a scenic journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes back to the local pier. Upon arrival, you’ll be comfortably transferred to the town of Guápiles, where a delicious lunch awaits.
After lunch, continue your journey for about 2 hours to the stunning Arenal Volcano region.
Expect to arrive in Arenal in the late afternoon.
- Location:
Arenal Volcano
- Hotel:
Arenal Manoa. (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Lunch
- Service:
Mystico Hanging Bridges-EcoTermales Hot Springs
Day 05: Arenal Volcano
After breakfast, start the exciting journey to the Mistico Hanging Bridges, where adventure and nature await.
Mystico Hanging Bridges
Located in Arenal, Mystico offers an unforgettable experience with a network of suspension bridges set amidst lush rainforest. As you stroll through the treetops, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Arenal Volcano, while keeping an eye out for diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and vibrant birds. The system of trails enhances the adventure, allowing visitors to explore various ecosystems while learning about Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the hanging bridges provide a unique perspective on the enchanting landscape, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with nature in this breathtaking region.
Return to your hotel, or visit the town of La Fortuna on your own.
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.
Evening
Ecotermales Fortuna (Shared)
After an adventurous day, EcoTermales Hot Springs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is ideal for relaxing in natural, mineral-rich pools warmed by the Arenal Volcano. Founded by the Hidalgo family two decades ago, this intimate hot springs complex was established to share their private sanctuary with visitors, offering a tranquil, nature-centered experience. The geothermally heated pools cascade like a river through the lush rainforest, starting at 105°F and cooling as they flow downstream, giving guests a variety of soothing options. Dedicated to sustainable tourism and preserving local wildlife, Eco Termales also provides opportunities to spot species like howler monkeys and toucans in the surrounding forest.
Guests begin at reception to receive locker keys and access dressing rooms with showers. A bar offers smoothies and cocktails (at an additional cost), and a Costa Rican buffet meal rounds out the relaxing experience.
Important Notes:
Children are encouraged to alternate between hot and cool pools for safety.
The restaurant operates in 2 schedules for visitors (10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.) with maximum guest allotments to guarantee an exclusive and relaxed environment.
Duration: 3-4 hours.
Includes: Locker, towel, access to the hot springs and typical buffet dinner.
- Location:
Arenal Volcano
- Hotel:
Arenal Manoa. (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Dinner
- Service:
Mystico Hanging Bridges-EcoTermales Hot Springs
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-Selvatura Hanging Bridges & Zipline- Monteverde Cloud Forest Nature Walk.
Day 07: Monteverde Cloud Forest
A full day of adventures in Monteverde awaits.
After breakfast, prepare to experience the mystic cloud forest with your Guide!
Selvatura Hanging Bridges & Zipline
The Selvatura experience offers a breathtaking journey through the heart of Costa Rica’s cloud forest, combining thrilling zip lines and peaceful hanging bridges. The adventure begins with a high-flying zipline course of 13 cables and 15 platforms, taking you through the canopy for a thrilling view of lush valleys and towering trees. For an added rush, there’s even an optional “Tarzan Swing” for a free-fall experience!
Following the zipline, you’ll explore Selvatura’s impressive hanging bridges. This series of eight bridges stretches over 1.5 miles, each bridge varying in length (from 150 to 510 feet) and reaching heights of up to 180 feet. From the bridges, you’ll experience the cloud forest’s diverse ecosystems up close, with opportunities to spot exotic birds, colorful orchids, and playful monkeys that inhabit this biodiverse paradise. The Selvatura Tour is the perfect blend of adventure and serenity, letting you experience Monteverde’s natural beauty from exhilarating perspectives.
Return to your hotel for lunch on your own, or explore the area on your own (highly recommended!).
Santa Elena offers a blend of adventure and local culture. This is small town features a variety of restaurants and cafés serving delicious Costa Rican cuisine, along with shops selling unique souvenirs and local crafts. Supermarkets and other businesses provide convenience, making it a welcoming destination for all visitors.
After lunch time, prepare to experience the mystic cloud forest with your Guide!
After breakfast, prepare to experience the mystic cloud forest with your Guide!
Monteverde Cloud Forest Nature Walk
This experience takes you through a stunning ecosystem rich in biodiversity, rooted in the conservation efforts of the Quaker settlers from the 1950s. Home to one of the most beautiful birds in the world, the Resplendent Quetzal, this area offers a unique opportunity to encounter vibrant orchids, exotic birds, and other diverse wildlife amidst the enchanting mist of the cloud forest. As you stroll along well-maintained trails, your expert guide will share insights about the delicate balance of this extraordinary habitat and the importance of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in protecting it. This reserve not only serves as a sanctuary for endangered species but also fosters a strong relationship between the community and nature, making this an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica’s premier ecotourism destinations.
- Location:
Monteverde
- Hotel:
Poco a Poco. (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
Lake crossing from Arenal to Monteverde, Sugar Mill and Coffee Tour-Selvatura Hanging Bridges & Zipline- Monteverde Cloud Forest Nature Walk.
Day 08: Monteverde Cloud Forest - Manuel Antonio
In the morning, after breakfast, start the scenic transfer to the Central Pacific Coast.
Tarcoles River and Guacalillo Mangrove Boat Experience
Located on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, Guacalillo Estuary and the Tárcoles River offer the opportunity to observe one of the largest colonies of American Crocodiles in the world. The region also boasts the richest mangrove forest in terms of biodiversity along the coast and serves as a vital conservation area for the Scarlet Macaw, one of the most iconic species in the country. With its bright red, orange, blue, and yellow plumage, long tail, and pointed wings, the Scarlet Macaw is easy to spot while flying above the boat or perched in the mangrove trees that line the estuary.
As the boat moves along the mangrove, visitors can explore an impressive ecosystem made up of four mangrove species that provide a critical nesting and sheltering area for mammals, reptiles, and species like iguanas and basilisks. Birdwatchers will have the chance to spot a wide variety of waterfowl, including the boat-billed heron, roseate spoonbills, and raptors such as the crested caracara and mangrove hawk. At the end of this remarkable journey, a delicious lunch is included to round out the experience.
Following lunch, continue for a two-hour drive to the Manuel Antonio National Park region.
Expect to arrive at dusk.
Manuel Antonio National Park is a tropical paradise nestled along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife, this park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and adventure. Explore hidden coves, hike through scenic trails, and encounter playful monkeys, vibrant toucans, and even the elusive sloth. Discover the park’s diverse ecosystems, including the humid forest, mangroves, and dry tropical forest, creating a unique habitat for a wide range of species. With its stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
- Location:
Manuel Antonio
- Hotel:
Hotel Parador (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Lunch
- Service:
Crocodile Tour-Manuel Antonio National Park, Catamaran Tour
Day 09: Manuel Antonio
Today you will be mesmerized when visiting one of the most beautiful beaches of Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio National Park Nature Walk
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Manuel Antonio National Park, a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its lush rainforests and abundant wildlife. Led by an expert naturalist, explore scenic trails and encounter fascinating creatures like sloths, monkeys, and vibrant birds. Discover hidden viewpoints and pristine beaches, offering the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Learn about the park’s rich ecosystem and conservation efforts while immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature. This unforgettable experience combines adventure, education, and the thrill of discovery. After your hike, unwind on the park’s idyllic beaches.
Around noon, it’s time to begin your catamaran and snorkeling adventure.
Please note that dinner is included at the end of the tour, so we recommend having lunch (not included) beforehand to fully enjoy your experience.
Catamaran & Snorkeling Experience
Set sail on a catamaran for an unforgettable coastal adventure. Enjoy stunning views of pristine shorelines, lush rainforests, and secluded beaches as you glide across crystal-clear waters. Dive into a vibrant underwater world, teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and, if you’re lucky, playful dolphins. During peak seasons (July-October and December-April), keep an eye out for majestic humpback whales, migrating through Costa Rica’s warm waters to mate and nurture their young. Witness these gentle giants breaching, tail-slapping, or gracefully swimming by.
Relax on spacious decks, savor a delicious early dinner, and enjoy unlimited drinks as you soak in the beauty of the coastline. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this tour offers the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility.
Note: The National Park is closed on Tuesdays.
- Location:
Manuel Antonio
- Hotel:
Hotel Parador (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Dinner
- Service:
Crocodile Tour-Manuel Antonio National Park, Catamaran Tour
Day 10: Manuel Antonio- San Jose Airport
Meals included: Breakfast
At a convenient time, start the approximate 3 hours transfer to the San Jose Airport.
End of services
HOTELS
Hotel Grano de Oro
Located in San José combines Victorian charm with modern luxury. This boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, a rooftop jacuzzi, and a lush courtyard for relaxation. Its renowned restaurant features gourmet Costa Rican and international cuisine. Ideally located near museums, markets, and key attractions, it provides easy access to the airport and day-trip destinations. Perfect for a refined stay at the start or end of your Costa Rican journey.
Hotel Aninga
Hotel Aninga is a serene eco-lodge in the heart of Tortuguero, Costa Rica, surrounded by lush rainforest and tropical canals. This tranquil retreat offers comfortable, bungalow-style accommodations designed to harmonize with nature, each featuring private terraces that blend seamlessly into the landscape. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, a relaxing spa with local treatments, and an on-site restaurant serving fresh, traditional Costa Rican dishes. Ideal for nature lovers, Hotel Aninga provides easy access to guided tours of Tortuguero National Park, where visitors can observe wildlife, explore waterways, and experience Costa Rica’s unique biodiversity in a pristine, natural setting.
Hotel Arenal Manoa
Hotel Arenal Manoa is a relaxing oasis with breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, nestled in the lush landscapes of La Fortuna, Costa Rica. The hotel offers spacious, private suites that feature modern comforts and large terraces overlooking the volcano, perfect for unwinding in nature. Guests can indulge in two outdoor pools, including a thermal hot spring pool, or rejuvenate at the full-service spa. The on-site restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine with a focus on Costa Rican flavors. With nearby trails, adventure activities, and scenic gardens, Arenal Manoa combines comfort, natural beauty, and an unforgettable volcano experience.
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 Parador
Located in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, offers a luxurious retreat surrounded by lush rainforests and panoramic ocean views. Located near Manuel Antonio National Park, it features 129 rooms across multiple buildings, three swimming pools, a spa, gourmet dining, and nature trails teeming with wildlife. Guests can enjoy modern amenities like jacuzzis, swim-up bars, and private balconies, along with easy access to nearby beaches via complimentary shuttles. With its mix of Mediterranean charm and tropical beauty, the resort promises relaxation and adventure in an unforgettable setting.
