Caribbean’s Treasure & Arenal Volcano Wonders
Take part in this immersive Costa Rica adventure package that transports you from vibrant cityscapes to lush rainforests and pristine coastlines. Begin with a scenic journey to Irazu Volcano and historic Cartago, then head to Puerto Viejo for beach relaxation, a guided hike in Cahuita National Park, and a cultural experience with the Bribri Indigenous community. In Tortuguero, explore tropical canals by boat and kayak, spotting diverse wildlife along the way. Continue to Arenal Volcano for thrilling night hikes, ziplining, and the striking blue waters of Rio Celeste. End your adventure at La Paz Waterfall Gardens and the renowned Doka Coffee Estate for a true taste of Costa Rica.
- Location:
San Jose City
- Arrival:
Juan Santamaria International Airport
- Departure:
Juan Santamaria International Airport
- Duration:
11 Days/10 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 welcomed 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 short private transfer to your hotel.
- Location:
San Jose City
- Hotel:
Hotel Bougainvillea
- Duration:
1 Night (Overnight)
- Meals:
N/A
- Service:
Transfer Airport – hotel – Overnight Staying
Day 02: City of San Jose – Irazu Volcano – Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
After breakfast, begin your adventure with a scenic drive to Irazu Volcano National Park, approximately 90 minutes away. As you ascend through the lush countryside, you’ll pass landscapes that vary with elevation, from coffee plantations to mist-covered ferns. At over 11,000 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level, the summit offers a stunning view of the crater, often filled with a lagoon of vibrant green water surrounded by jagged volcanic rock. On a clear day, the rare phenomenon of seeing both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts is possible.
After exploring the volcano, continue to the historic city of Cartago for a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, a pilgrimage destination. Travel through Turrialba’s serene countryside for lunch (at your own expense) before completing the journey with a three-hour drive to the Southern Caribbean Coast, arriving in the late afternoon.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca offers vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, stunning beaches, and wildlife exploration. Visitors can surf, snorkel, and interact authentically with locals while supporting small businesses. Nearby, the Bribri Indigenous Reserve welcomes travelers to learn about their heritage, traditional practices, and way of life. The town’s reggae rhythms, diverse cuisine, and warm community make it an unforgettable tropical getaway.
- Location:
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- Hotel:
Hotel Cariblue (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
San Jose City – Irazu Volcano – Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – Cahuita National Park – Bribri Indigenous Reserve Experience
Day 03: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Cahuita National Park Nature Walk
After breakfast, begin the day with a guided tour of Cahuita National Park. Enter through the White Beach sector and follow the trail toward Cahuita Point, passing along picturesque beaches. Along the way, a professional naturalist guide will use keen observation skills to spot wildlife. Common sightings include white-faced monkeys, sloths, raccoons, and many other species. After reaching the midpoint of the hike, about 2.5 km in, the group returns to the park entrance.
Lunch follows at a local restaurant in town (on own)
Bribri Indigenous Reserve Experience
In the afternoon, explore the Watsi Bribri Indigenous community for an immersive cultural experience. This region, known for its Afro-Caribbean influence, is also home to the Bribri people. Visitors can observe the process of making organic chocolate, crafted traditionally from plant to plate by a Bribri artisan. With a deep-rooted history of cacao cultivation in the Puerto Viejo area, the community offers travelers the chance to purchase chocolate and support their sustainable practices.
- Location:
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- Hotel:
Hotel Cariblue (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
San Jose City – Irazu Volcano – Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – Cahuita National Park – Bribri Indigenous Reserve Experience
Day 04: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Make the most of this free day by exploring the region’s stunning beaches, including nearby gems like Punta Uva and Gandoca-Manzanillo. While enjoying the scenery, engage with local businesses to connect with the community and sample traditional dishes, such as the beloved Rice & Beans, a flavorful Caribbean specialty, along with other regional delicacies.
- Location:
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- Hotel:
Hotel Cariblue (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
San Jose City – Irazu Volcano – Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – Cahuita National Park – Bribri Indigenous Reserve Experience
Day 05: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – Tortuguero National Park
In the morning, after breakfast, prepare for the approximately 3-hour drive to the La Pavona Boat Pier. At around 10:30 AM, board the boat that will take you through the scenic Tortuguero Canals to your lodge.
You’ll arrive just in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, explore the charming Tortuguero town
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.
- Location:
Tortuguero National Park
- Hotel:
Laguna Lodge
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Service:
Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour, Kayak Tour, entrance fee to the National Park
Day 06: Tortuguero National Park
Today, two activities are included:
Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour
The tour inside the canals of the National Park is the most important activity of your trip to Tortuguero.
You’ll enjoy the lush biodiversity of flora and fauna in this ecosystem which is the most complex and dynamic of Tropical America.
Accompanied by your naturalist guide and an experienced boatman in the area, you will appreciate the amazing variety of animal species the National Park shelter. Three species of monkeys, 400 species of birds, reptiles and amphibians, such as iguanas, American Crocodiles, caimans, turtles… And a large number of mammals.
The boat tour is in the mornings, the duration of the tour is two hours approximately.
Return to the lodge for lunch.
Kayaking the Tortuguero Canals
Enjoy a kayak adventure through the wonderful Tortuguero National Park.
A unique opportunity to be in contact with nature among the imposing biodiversity that this spectacular destination offers.
Accompanied by a local guide, you will be able to appreciate the tropical rainforest on a tour that will last approximately 2 hours through exclusive water trails for canoes and kayaks.
- Location:
Tortuguero National Park
- Hotel:
Laguna Lodge
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Service:
Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour, Kayak Tour, entrance fee to the National Park
Day 07: 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.
Once you’ve checked in at your hotel, around 5:30 PM, get ready to embark on an exciting Night Tour adventure!
Arenal Night Tour
When it gets dark, a new world of sounds, sensations and colorful animals awakens
in the forest with things you can’t even imagine during the day.
We take you to the farm, a hidden gem just 10 minutes from La Fortuna, owned by
the Araya family, lovely locals inspired by environmental protection where they
pledged to protect a primary forest and reforestation area surrounding a river of
crystal clear waters that come from the hills to create a perfect ecosystem that you
can enjoy today. Our expert guides consider it the “sweet spot” to explore the
wonders of the jungle on an easy hike with stunning views of the lowlands full of
nature and guaranteed safety.
With all the necessary equipment provided by our local experts and the benefit of
being off the beaten path in a private experience, the chance to see many active
frogs, an interesting variety of insects, sleeping birds and many more animals in their
natural habitat makes these quiet trails open a door to a new perspective on the flora
and fauna of Costa Rica.
- Location:
Arenal Volcano
- Hotel:
Volcano Lodge (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Lunch
- Service:
Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna Night Tour, Ziplining, Aerial Tram and Hanging Bridges, Tenorio Volcano National Park Hiking Tour
Day 08: Arenal Volcano
Today, get ready for one of the most exciting adventures in Costa Rica
Sky Tram, Sky Trek and Sky Walk (Shared)
Meet your Spanish-speaking driver at your hotel lobby and drive to a private reserve on the north-facing slopes of the Cordillera de Tilarán. At the Tram site, you’ll meet your adventure guides and be fitted with safety equipment, including a harness, helmet, and gloves. The aerial Sky Tram rises 236 meters (780 feet) during a 1250-meter (4125 feet) ride, offering views of the volcano and surrounding rainforest. The tram, resembling a ski lift with gondolas, stops at points for photographs and wildlife spotting.
The Canopy Zip Line begins at the observation platform, featuring ten cables ranging from 30 to 200 meters (100 to 660 feet) in height and 200 to 750 meters (660 to 2475 feet) in length. Guides will provide a safety briefing and tips for braking. While zipping along nearly two miles (three kilometers) of cables, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the volcano and lake. Afterward, one of the guides will accompany you on the Canopy Walkway, a trail that ascends along some ravines and hills, permitting the visitor opportunities to spot wildlife while crossing through dense forest as well as light gaps.
Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours in the park plus approx 2 hours round trip transfers. Total 6 – 7 hours.
Lunch is not included; you may purchase lunch at the local cafeteria.
- Location:
Arenal Volcano
- Hotel:
Volcano Lodge (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast
- Service:
Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna Night Tour, Ziplining, Aerial Tram and Hanging Bridges, Tenorio Volcano National Park Hiking Tour
Day 09: Arenal Volcano
After breakfast, meet your Driver for the adventure of the day:
Rio Celeste (Tenorio Volcano National Park) Hiking Tour
Prepare for an approximately one-and-a-half-hour journey through the scenic lowlands around the Arenal area towards the Northern mountain ranges.
Upon arrival, embark on a 3-hour hike through the area’s main attractions. First, marvel at the impressive Blue Waterfall, followed by the Borbollones, where bubbling water rises from the ground in a mesmerizing display. Next, we’ll visit the tranquil Blue Lagoon—a peaceful spot where the calm river, with its striking blue water, forms a natural pool surrounded by dense rainforest. Finally, at the Teñideros section, where two rivers merge, you’ll witness the remarkable blue coloration of the Rio Celeste.
The Rio Celeste area is renowned for its wildlife, including the chance to spot a Central American tapir along the trails of the National Park. After completing this scenic 7-kilometer hike, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before beginning our journey back to your hotel near the Arenal Volcano.
Notes: This tour is recommended for travelers in good physical condition and is not suitable for those with hip, knee, or heart conditions.
For those who prefer a shorter experience or have specific physical needs, it’s possible to hike only halfway to the waterfall and then return.
- Location:
Arenal Volcano
- Hotel:
Volcano Lodge (or similar)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Lunch
- Service:
Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna Night Tour, Ziplining, Aerial Tram and Hanging Bridges, Tenorio Volcano National Park Hiking Tour
Day 10: Arenal Volcano – La Paz Waterfalls Gardens – Doka Coffee Tour - City of Alajuela
After an early morning breakfast, prepare for a scenic 90-minute journey from the Arenal area to La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
La Paz is a must-visit. This eco-park features stunning hiking trails, five breathtaking waterfalls, and a wildlife rescue center, showcasing the country’s largest privately-owned wildlife preserve, which includes wildcats like jaguars. Visitors can explore a remarkable butterfly garden, a frog pond, and enjoy interactions with hummingbirds and toucans. Nestled in the Central Highlands at elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 feet, the park’s lush biodiversity includes cloud and rain forest habitats, filled with vibrant flora such as bromeliads and orchids.
After your experience at La Paz Waterfalls Gardens and lunch included, continue to the nearby Doka Estate Coffee Tour.
Doka Estate Coffee Tour
Expert guides will lead you through Hacienda Doka’s rich coffee heritage, starting at the seedbed where the journey of every coffee bean begins. Explore diverse plant varieties and their growth cycles and learn about the local history that has shaped our coffee culture.
Recognized as an Architectural Heritage for Humanity in 2003, our processing plant is where coffee cherries undergo their remarkable transformation. Witness traditional de-pulping and fermenting processes that are crucial to crafting our premium coffee.
The heart of our tour lies in the Hacienda Doka Coffee roasting plant. Here, you’ll explore the art of roasting and learn about our variety of roasts.
Each blend tells a unique story, contributing to the distinct flavor and aroma of our coffee. Conclude your tour with a visit to our gift shop. Sample eight unique blends, each carefully crafted to represent the essence of Hacienda Doka’s coffee expertise.
Continue for approximately 30 minutes down to your hotel in Alajuela.
- Location:
Savegre
- Hotel:
Buena Vista Chic (Overnight)
- Duration:
N/A
- Meals:
Breakfast and Lunch
- Service:
N/A
Day 11: Departure
At a convenient time, departure transfer to the Airport.
End of services
HOTELS
Hotel Bougainvillea
Hotel Bougainvillea is a charming independent hotel nestled in the heart of Costa Rica’s Central Valley, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture. Spanning ten acres, the hotel features stunning botanical gardens filled with diverse flora, creating a tranquil oasis for guests. Its artistic ambiance is enhanced by various art installations, rocks, and minerals displayed throughout the property.
The on-site restaurant is popular among both locals and travelers, serving a delightful range of dishes that highlight Costa Rican flavors. Guests can relax by the swimming pool, engage in a game of tennis on well-maintained courts, or explore the lush gardens.
The hotel prides itself on its dedicated staff, who contribute to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making Hotel Bougainvillea a destination itself rather than just a stopover. With its convenient location near San José and major attractions, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich culture and natural wonders of Costa Rica.
Hotel Cariblue
Located in front of the golden sandy Cocles Beach, surrounded by lush tropical forests and a jungle teeming with wildlife, our comfortable rooms, bungalows and villas offer the perfect place to vacation in Costa Rica.
The resort includes 2 freshwater pools, 1 Jacuzzi, Surya Wellness SPA, Jungle restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and the Congo Wetbar where you can enjoy the best cocktails and happy hour at the resort’s main pool.
Whether you are looking for an adventure trip or a quiet and relaxing vacation, or a mix of both, we have the perfect place for you.
Laguna Lodge
Laguna Lodge, located in the heart of Tortuguero, Costa Rica, is an eco-friendly lodge set between the Caribbean Sea and Tortuguero Lagoon. Accessible only by boat, it offers a unique immersion into the lush tropical rainforest, surrounded by rich wildlife. The lodge features comfortable, rustic-style rooms, two refreshing pools, and a tranquil open-air restaurant serving local cuisine. Guests can explore Tortuguero National Park, embark on canal tours to observe exotic flora and fauna, and witness nesting sea turtles on nearby beaches. Laguna Lodge provides an authentic nature experience.
Volcano Lodge
Set in lush tropical gardens, at the foot of Costa Rica’s Arenal the Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience offers an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi zone. Air-conditioned rooms have a terrace. Each room features tiled floors and comes with a desk, coffee maker and cable TV. The private bathroom includes a hairdryer and shower. Breakfast is available at the lodge, and it is included on the rate. There is a bar, restaurant and snack bar. Room service is available. The lodge offers free parking. You can arrange excursions like a canopy tour or a visit to nearby hot springs.
Hotel Buena Vista Chic
Guests of Buena Vista Chic Hotel love our easy accessibility to and from San Jose International Airport – just a short 10 kilometers (6 miles ride). Once at the hotel, however, airport memories fade as a sense of tranquility sets in.
Nestled in a coffee plantation on a lush hilltop overlooking downtown San Jose, our hotel offers a secluded sanctuary of magnificently manicured gardens and grounds.
Charming architecture and cozy interiors decorated in modernist tropical style provide a warm, inviting refuge for business and leisure travelers. The personalized service from our friendly, engaging staff sets Buena Vista Chic Hotel as the ideal home away from home in the mountains above San Jose. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing place to stay before or after your flight, or just want to experience the beauty and serenity of Costa Rica, we offer a unique alternative to the larger branded hotels.
