Travel to Costa Rica During the Green Season
Our Top Itinerary

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Your private driver will meet you atJuan Santamaria International Airport , near San José, at an elevation of 1,150 meters, in the heart of the valley.

Overnight stay at a charming hotel in the Alajuelaregion .

This morning, you’ll pick up your rental car and hit the road toward Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, about a 2-hour drive away, where the forests serve as a refuge for tapirs, sloths, coatis, and various species of monkeys.

Cultural Tour Focusing on Palm Hearts

On the way, you’ll stop at Maria’s farm, where she grows palmitos (palm hearts). You’ll tour the plantation, sample raw palm hearts, and then enjoy a traditional meal featuring palmitos.

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

You’ll then have approximately a 2-hour drive to the northern part of the country, near the border with Nicaragua, in the San Carlos Valley, where you’ll spend the night.

Overnight stay at a charming ecolodge surrounded by Costa Rican nature, where you can go canoeing on the lagoon.

Floating Safari on the San Carlos River

You’ll set out on a rafting trip accompanied by a naturalist guide on the San Carlos River, where you can focus on the surrounding nature and enjoy the relaxing sounds of the area. You’ll peacefully observe waterbirds and other animals along the riverbank.

Approximate duration: 4 hours.

Encounter with Nocturnal Animals

To round out the day, you’ll set out to discover the region’s wildlife ona night hike. Your nature guide will help you spot alligators, snakes, spiders, frogs, and other nocturnal species…

Approximate duration: 1.5 hours.

Overnight stay at a charming ecolodge surrounded by Costa Rican nature, where you can use the canoes on the lagoon

Jungle Hike with a Guide

You’ll set out to explore the tropical rainforest of the Boca Tapada region and the various animal and plant species found there ona 3-kilometer hike accompanied by a naturalist guide. Among other things, you’ll be able to see monkeys, iguanas, numerous birds, snakes, and exotic insects…

Approximate duration: 2.5 hours

Spend the night in a charming ecolodge surrounded by Costa Rican nature, where you can go canoeing on the lagoon.

Drive from Boca Tapada to Arenal

Today you’ll head to the La Fortuna region and the majestic Arenal Volcano (1,635 meters), about a 2-hour drive away.

Cooking class and dinner at sunset.

Enjoy a unique culinary experience by visiting an organic garden to harvest aromatic herbs, then help prepare a traditional Costa Rican dish cooked over a wood fire. The activity includes making a palm-leaf tortilla, a dinner featuring a choice between Casado or Olla de Carne, as well as dessert, chorreado coffee, and a traditional toast with a glass of sugarcane juice. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide throughout the experience.

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Spend the night in a charming bungalow with the Arenal Volcano as a backdrop.

Sloth Safari

Today, set out to discover Costa Rica’s iconic symbol: the sloth. You’ll also have the chance to observe the flora and fauna of the Arenal region. A naturalist guide will accompany you to help you spot these fascinating animals, and you’ll be able to enjoy a snack while chatting with the guide about your observations.

Approximate duration: 3 hours.

Sunset Walk on the Suspension Bridges.

To enjoy the end of the day, set out on a 3-kilometer trail through a primary forest in the Arenal region. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll cross about fifteen suspension bridges high above the canopy, offering breathtaking views of the tropical vegetation and Arenal Volcano at sunset!

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Spend the night in a charming bungalow with Arenal Volcano as a backdrop.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Arenal

Try stand-up paddleboarding on picturesque Lake Arenal! On this calm body of water, facing the volcano, you’ll glide along while standing on a board similar to a large surfboard. You’ll propel yourself with a long paddle and may spot various types of birds while taking in the magnificent scenery. Get ready to walk on water! If you’re a beginner, no worries—this activity is perfect for all adventure seekers!
Approximate duration: 4 hours.

Relaxation Guaranteed in the Hot Springs

At the end of the day, you’ll enjoy a relaxing moment at the Ecotermales hot springs resort, in an intimate setting. The hot waters come directly fromthe hotspringsof the Arenal Volcano,without ever coming into contact with the magma.

Approximate duration: 3 hours.

Spend the night in a charming bungalow with the Arenal Volcano as a backdrop.

Route from Arenal to Bagaces

Set off on a 2-hour drive toward the province of Guanacaste, home to the Sabaneros—those proud and colorful cowboys—and the Palo Verde National Park area, famous for birdwatching and its wetland landscapes, unique to Costa Rica.

A refreshing oasis in the heart of nature

Just a few kilometers from Bagaces, a natural treasure awaits the most curious visitors. After parking your car and walking along a shaded trail, you’ll come face-to-face with a spectacular waterfall, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in the country. Standing 12 meters tall, it cascades gently into a natural pool, perfect for a refreshing swim. Dare to venture behind the curtain of water to discover the other side of this wild and enchanting setting.

Note: There is an admission fee (about $5) for parking, payable on site.

Spend the night in a uniquely designed lodge where the serenity of nature reigns.

Take in the experience of canyoning in a nature reserve!

The White River Canyon is the highlight of this zip-line adventure. This epic adventure will keep surprising you with: 15 platforms, a Tarzan swing, a 27-meter rope bridge, and… we won’t tell you everything!
A water stop halfway through the course is the perfect opportunity to cool off and take in the fresh air in this stunning setting.
Difficulty level: intermediate.

Approximate duration: 1.5 hours.

Explore the canyon by tubing

You’ll pass through sections of the canyon where the rock walls are narrow and daylight is scarce. If you stay quiet and pay close attention to the local guides, you’ll realize you’re not alone—all kinds of birds and monkeys are around.

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Spend the night in a uniquely designed lodge surrounded by the serenity of nature.

Birdwatching Hike

Early in the morning, you’ll set out with a local guide through the wilderness to discover the various bird species that inhabit the area. You’ll be amazed by all the species you’ll see in this region!

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Rincon de la Vieja National Park

From the entrance to the Santa Maria sector, you’ll have the opportunity to spot various birds and mammals native to the region, such as the agouti, the coati, and the peacock. Want to see a beautiful waterfall? Take the Catarata Bosque Encantado trail, which leads you to a small waterfall in the middle of the forest—perfect for a refreshing swim!

You can also enjoy the park’s famous hot springs—one of the area’s most popular attractions and completely natural. Finally, if you’re looking for a beautiful viewpoint, climb up to the Mirador for a splendid panoramic view of the entire region, from the plains of Guanacaste to the Miravalles volcano.

Spend the night in a uniquely designed accommodation where the serenity of nature reigns.

Route from Bagaces to Isla Jesusita

You’re heading to the Nicoya Peninsula to settle on this remote island, located about a 3½-hour drive away.

Enjoy your stay in the heart of the Gulf of Nicoya and soak up the peaceful, authentic atmosphere. We recommend using the kayaks provided to explore the surrounding islands. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding on the gulf.

A guided hike of 1 km (approximately 45 minutes) is included daily at 11:00 a.m. The hike departs from the hotel reception. Kayaks and paddles are available for free use. A small gift, reserved exclusively for our guests, awaits you upon arrival. 😉

Spend the night in a luxury tent on Costa Rica’s only island hotel

A Moment of Relaxation (Optional Activity—Not Included)

Enjoy 30 minutes of relaxation with a soothing massage at the hotel’s spa.

Bioluminescence Boat Tour

Our planet has special areas where an impressive natural phenomenon causes tiny lights to glow in the ocean on dark nights. Caused by a high concentration of light-emitting plankton, bioluminescence occurs in dark places and when the water is moving. This rare phenomenon can be seen around Jesusita Island, and thanks to this boat adventure, you’ll have the chance to witness it.

Approximate duration: 1 hour.

Overnight stay in a luxury tent on Costa Rica’s only island hotel

Artisanal Fishing (Additional Activity—Not Included)

Artisanal fishing is a key component of the region’s cultural and economic strategy. Traditions passed down from generation to generation are essential to the way of life of many local communities. A fisherman/guide will take you out on a small boat for a delightful expedition to the region’s best fishing spots. Local catches include snappers, groupers, and more.

Approximate duration: about 2 hours.

Curu Reserve (Additional-cost activity—not included)

Embark on an adventure in Costa Rica’s first private wildlife refuge. You’ll explore the beautiful trails on a guided hike to observe a magnificent variety of birds. Ideal for connecting with mammals and reptiles: nature at its finest!

Approximate duration: 4 hours.

Overnight stay in a luxury tent on Costa Rica’s only island hotel

Route from Isla Jesusita to Manuel Antonio

You’ll leave this remote island by boat to return to the mainland and your vehicle, then take a ferry from Paquera across the Gulf of Nicoya to Puntarenas. From there, head to Manuel Antonio and its famous national park.

Approximate travel time: 5.5 hours (includes ferry travel time)
Note: You’ll take the ferry from Paquera to Puntarenas.

A treat for your taste buds!

Rediscover the authentic flavors of vanilla, cacao, and cinnamon…You’ll explore the spice plantations at a local finca and learn all about how they’re produced. You’ll wrap up this experience with a tasting featuring vanilla, chocolate, and cinnamon… A truly exhilarating moment with a wonderful view!

Approximate duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Overnight stay at a charming boutique hotel in Manuel Antonio.

Visit to Manuel Antonio National Park.

Heading to Manuel Antonio National Park this morning, which combines magnificent beaches with a coral reef and a wide variety of flora and fauna: swimming in crystal-clear waters, relaxing on fine sandy beaches, strolling through the tropical vegetation…The park is an ideal spot for spotting many animals, such as sloths and squirrel monkeys.

Drive from Manuel Antonio to Puerto Jiménez.

You’ll then head to the Osa Peninsula, with an approximate drive time of 3 hours. You’ll return your rental car in Puerto Jiménez, where your lodge will pick you up and take you to the heart of the Golfo Dulce.

During your stay at the lodge, you’ll have free access to the following activities:
– Use of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and diving equipment.

– A guided tour of the tropical rainforest.

– A signature cocktail-making class.

– Daily yoga sessions.

– Access to self-guided hiking trails around the reserve.

Check out the rest of the activities with your travel designer:
Kayaking and bioluminescence tours, marine wildlife watching in Golfo Dulce, a delicious tropical brunch… the choice is yours!

Terra Caribea is committed: It’s in Golfo Dulce that the Raising Coral association, with whom we collaborate, works to preserve Costa Rica’s fabulous coral reefs. Feel free to check out their website: https://www.raisingcoral.org/

Overnight stay at an exceptional lodge with an incredible view of Golfo Dulce.

Dolphin and Whale Tour (Additional Activity—Not Included)


Golfo Dulce isone of only four tropical fjords in the world. It is home to a wide variety of fish, corals, and large mammals. It features vast areas of mangroves and river mouths that flow into the gulf from the surrounding tropics, and the ocean is rich in minerals. It provides a reliable food source for dolphin species, humpback whales (from July to October), manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles that live in or visit this incredible environment. A unique experience awaits you!

Approximate duration: 2 hours.

Overnight stay at an exceptional lodge withan incredible view of the Golfo Dulce.

Tropical Brunch (Additional-cost activity—not included)

Enjoy a serene and peaceful setting right on the beach, complete with cold drinks, lounge chairs, hammocks, and tapas freshly prepared by our chefs. Relax under the palm trees to the sounds of the ocean, surrounded by vibrant nature, a panoramic view, and the warm, calm waters of Golfo Dulce.

Approximate duration: 1 hour.

A Magical Spectacle (Optional activity—not included)

Before sunset, you’ll set out in a kayak into the heart of Golfo Dulce to witness a spectacular natural phenomenon. Once it’s dark enough, marvel as each stroke of the paddle leaves behind a swirl of light.

Approximate duration: 1 hour and a half.

Overnight stay at an exceptional lodge withan incredible view of Golfo Dulce

You will take a domestic flight to San José.

Your lodge will take you to Golfito so you can reach the domestic airport. The flight takes about 1 hour; the exact schedule will be provided at the time of booking.

Then head to the international airport for your return flight home!