🌴»From the Caribbean to the Pacific: An Unforgettable Adventure» 9D/8N

Itinerary

The “Caribbean Sunrise and Pacific Sunset” tour is the perfect combination for families and nature lovers who want to explore Costa Rica at its best.This unforgettable journey will take you from coast to coast, from magical sunrises over the Caribbean Sea to spectacular sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you will live unique experiences designed to connect with nature and share special moments with family or friends.

Embark on boat safaris through canals surrounded by lush vegetation, where you may spot caimans, exotic herons and turtles gliding through the water. Explore the rainforest on guided hikes, discovering the country’s impressive biodiversity.

The adventure continues with a visit to the imposing Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most emblematic natural wonders. Explore its trails surrounded by solidified lava, soak in natural hot springs and marvel at the perfect silhouette of this active colossus that dominates the landscape. From its slopes, you will enjoy spectacular views and a unique connection with the force of nature. For the more adventurous, the excitement intensifies with a zipline tour, gliding over the treetops and enjoying unparalleled panoramic views.

Each day will bring new adventures, from exploring paradisiacal beaches to relaxing in the middle of nature. An unforgettable experience that combines adventure, relaxation and the amazing natural spectacle of Costa Rica.

Description of activities and areas to visit

🏨 Day 1. The Adventure Begins – Welcome to Costa Rica!

Upon arrival at the International Airport, our team will be waiting to greet you with a warm welcome and personalized assistance. From the moment you step into Costa Rica, you will feel the hospitality and vibrant energy that make this country so special.

🚗 Comfortable Transfer to Your Hotel – Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive, taking in your first views of Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes while our team provides you with important information about your upcoming adventure.

✨ Get ready for an unforgettable experience, where adventure, nature, and culture come together in the heart of Costa Rica!

Overnight at Hilton Garden Sabana or similar.

🌊 Day 2. Route to the Caribbean – Journey to Tortuguero National Park

🚗 Morning: Scenic Transfer Through Braulio Carrillo National Park
Begin your adventure with a breathtaking journey through the Braulio Carrillo National Park, one of Costa Rica’s largest and most biodiverse reserves. As we travel through this lush rainforest and towering mountains & deep canyons, shaped by intense rainfall of up to 4,500 mm per year.

🍌 Exploring Banana Plantations & Boarding the Boat
Before reaching the dock, we will pass through vast banana plantations, where you will:
✔ Learn about the importance of banana cultivation in Costa Rica’s economy and culture.
✔ Gain insight into the production process and its impact on local communities.
From here, we will board a boat to continue our journey through the Tortuguero Canals, a network of waterways surrounded by lush jungle, home to incredible biodiversity. Keep an eye out for monkeys, caimans, river turtles, and tropical birds as we navigate these peaceful waters.

🏡 Afternoon: Visit to the Village & Sea Turtle Museum
Upon arrival in Tortuguero, immerse yourself in its vibrant Caribbean culture and deep connection to nature conservation.
✔ Stroll through the picturesque village of Tortuguero, learning about the local way of life.
✔ Visit the Sea Turtle Museum, managed by the Caribbean Conservation Corporation, where you will discover:
• The life cycle of sea turtles and their incredible nesting process.
• The challenges they face, including climate change and poaching.
• The conservation efforts that make Tortuguero one of the most important nesting sites for Green Sea Turtles in the Western Hemisphere.

🌿 Evening: Rest & Relaxation in Nature and reflect on the day’s experiences, surrounded by the tranquility of Tortuguero unique ecosystem.

This journey provides a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and conservation, making Tortuguero one of Costa Rica’s must-visit destinations!

Overnight at Mawamba Lodge or similar.

🚤 Day 3. Canal Adventure – Exploring the Wild Beauty of Tortuguero

🌅 Morning: Sunrise Boat Safari Through the Tortuguero Canals
Start the day with an early morning boat tour, gliding through the serene and mist-covered canals of Tortuguero. This is one of the best times to witness the rainforest awakening, as wildlife is most active at dawn.
✔ Spot colorful toucans and other exotic birds perched among the trees.
✔ Observe howler and white-faced capuchin monkeys moving through the canopy.
✔ Look for sloths lazily resting on high branches.
✔ Watch caimans and river turtles silently navigating the waters.
The tranquil atmosphere and the reflections of the jungle on the water create a magical and immersive experience.
After this unforgettable safari, return to the lodge for a delicious breakfast, recharging energy for the next adventure.

⛰ 9:00 AM – Hike to Tortuguero Hill (Cerro Tortuguero)
Next, begin a hike to Tortuguero Hill, the highest point in the region, offering:
✔ A challenging but rewarding ascent through dense tropical rainforest.
✔ Opportunities to spot unique flora and fauna along the trail.
✔ Breathtaking panoramic views from the top, where you can see the Tortuguero Canals, the endless rainforest, and the Caribbean Sea stretching beyond the horizon.
This hike provides a completely different perspective of Tortuguero, complementing the water-based experiences with an aerial view of the vast wilderness.

🌊 Afternoon: Exploring a New Canal
In the afternoon, embark on a second boat tour, this time exploring a different channel, where you will:
✔ Navigate through new waterways, discovering even more hidden corners of the jungle.
✔ Observe different species that thrive in these untouched environments.
✔ Experience the surprises of nature, as each turn of the river unveils new wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

This full day of exploration, from the depths of the canals to the heights of the rainforest, offers an unparalleled connection with Costa Rica’s natural wonders, making Tortuguero an unforgettable destination for wildlife lovers and adventurers alike.

Overnight at Mawamba Lodge or similar.

🌋 Day 4. On the Way to Fortuna – A Journey to Arenal Volcano

🚗 Morning: Scenic Drive to Arenal Volcano
After a delicious breakfast, we will begin our journey to La Fortuna, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural wonders.
✔ Arenal: A Perfect Stratovolcano – Rising 1,710 meters above sea level, this nearly symmetrical volcano was Costa Rica’s most active until 2010, with frequent eruptions.
✔ Arenal Volcano National Park – The volcano and surrounding Lake Arenal are part of a protected natural reserve, offering stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Arenal’s towering peak and lush surroundings.

💦 Afternoon: Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall (If Time Permits)
If time allows, take a scenic hike to La Fortuna Waterfall, one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
✔ Descend through lush rainforest, passing towering trees and diverse flora.
✔ Arrive at the stunning 70-meter waterfall, where crystal-clear waters crash into a natural pool.
✔ Swim in the refreshing waters, surrounded by an untouched tropical paradise.
✔ Learn about the local conservation project, which helps protect this unique ecosystem.

🌿 Night: Optional Visit to Arenal’s Natural Hot Springs (Not Included)
To end the day in total relaxation, choose to soak in Arenal’s natural hot springs, a perfect way to unwind after a day of travel and exploration.
✔ Immerse yourself in volcanic thermal pools, rich in minerals with therapeutic properties.
✔ Relax in a tropical oasis, surrounded by lush gardens and soothing waterfalls.
✔ Rejuvenate your body and mind, embracing the peaceful ambiance.

This day blends scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation, offering the perfect introduction to the wonders of Arenal!

Overnight in Arenal at Arenal Paraíso or similar

🌄 Day 5. Sky Adventure & Arenal Volcano Exploration

🚀 Morning: Sky Trek – A Canopy Adventure Above the Rainforest
Start your day with a delicious breakfast, fueling up for an adrenaline-filled adventure high above the rainforest canopy.
✔ Sky Tram: Begin with a scenic cable car ride to the highest point of the Arenal Reserve, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal.
✔ Sky Trek: Experience 8 thrilling zipline cables, stretching over 1.7 miles in total.
✔ Feel the rush! The ziplines range from 100 to 2,460 feet in length and reach heights of up to 660 feet, giving you a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the lush rainforest.
This canopy adventure is the ultimate way to experience the jungle from above, blending adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and nature immersion.

🌋 Afternoon: Hike Through Arenal Volcano National Park
After an exhilarating morning, explore the volcanic landscapes of Arenal Volcano National Park, hiking along the lava flow trail.
✔ Walk over ancient volcanic rock formations, learning about the 1968 eruption that reshaped the area.
✔ Get up close to Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural wonders.
✔ Spot wildlife, including monkeys, coatis, frogs, and a variety of tropical birds as you trek through the park’s rich biodiversity.

This perfect combination of adventure and nature makes for an unforgettable day in Arenal, showcasing its thrilling heights, geological wonders, and abundant wildlife.

Overnight in Arenal at Arenal Paraíso or similar

🌅 Day 6. Path to the Sunset – Journey to Manuel Antonio

🚗 Morning: Scenic Transfer to Manuel Antonio National Park
Today, we travel to the Central Pacific coast, heading towards Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most famous natural treasures. On the way, we will make a special stop at the Tárcoles River, home to one of the largest populations of American crocodiles in the wild.
✔ Crocodile Watching: Get an up-close look at these impressive reptiles, some growing up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) long, as they bask on the riverbanks or glide silently through the water.
✔ Birdwatching Paradise: With over 50 species of birds recorded, keep an eye out for the majestic scarlet macaw, one of Costa Rica’s most emblematic birds, as well as herons, egrets, and other migratory waterfowl.
✔ Boat Safari Experience (Optional): Cruise along the river to spot sunbathing iguanas and the fascinating «Jesus Christ lizards», known for their ability to run on water.

🏖 Afternoon: Arrival & Relaxation in Manuel Antonio
After this incredible wildlife encounter, continue the journey to Manuel Antonio, where you will:
✔ Check into your hotel, nestled in the lush rainforest with ocean views.
✔ Relax and unwind, enjoying the serene coastal atmosphere.
✔ Prepare for upcoming adventures, including pristine beaches, wildlife encounters, and rainforest exploration.

With a mix of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation, this day sets the stage for an unforgettable experience on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

Overnight at Parador or similar.

🌊 Day 7. Beach Day – Exploring Manuel Antonio National Park

🌿 Morning: Discover the Natural Beauty of Manuel Antonio
After a delicious breakfast, set out to explore Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking destinations. Though compact at 682 hectares, this biodiversity hotspot features pristine beaches, dense rainforest, and stunning coastal views.
✔ Hike the well-marked trails, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
✔ Encounter incredible wildlife, including:
White-faced capuchin monkeys, known for their playful antics.
Rare squirrel monkeys, unique to this region.
Two-toed and three-toed sloths, resting high in the treetops.
Howler monkeys, whose deep roars echo through the forest.
Curious coatis, always on the lookout for food.

🏖 Relax on Manuel Antonio’s Stunning Beaches
After the hike and wildlife encounters, unwind at one of four white-sand beaches within the park, where you can:
✔ Swim in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush rainforest.
✔ Relax under the shade of almond trees, enjoying the pristine tropical setting.

🌅 Afternoon: Leisure Time at the Hotel
After leaving the park, return to the hotel to enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace, whether by the pool, the beach, or exploring nearby attractions.

This perfect blend of adventure and relaxation makes Manuel Antonio an unforgettable destination, offering some of Costa Rica’s best wildlife encounters and most beautiful beaches.

Overnight at Parador or similar.

🚗 Day 8. Return to San José – The Final Stretch of an Unforgettable Journey.

11:00 AM – Scenic Transfer to San José
After soaking in the beauty of the Central Pacific, begin your journey back to San José, traveling through picturesque coastal landscapes and the rolling mountains of the Central Valley.

✔ Enjoy the Scenic Route – Pass through charming rural towns, coffee plantations, and cloud forests, witnessing Costa Rica’s diverse geography one last time

🏨 Arrival in San José
Upon reaching the capital, you will be transferred either to your hotel for your last night in Costa Rica or directly to the airport, depending on your flight schedule.
This marks the end of an unforgettable adventure, but the memories of Costa Rica’s incredible landscapes, rich biodiversity, and warm hospitality will stay with you forever.

Overnight at Hilton Garden Sabana or similar.

✈️ Day 9. Goodbye, Costa Rica – Safe Travels!

At the indicated time, transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport for your return flight home.
✔ Enjoy the final scenic views of Costa Rica as you head to the airport.
✔ If time allows, take the opportunity to shop for last-minute souvenirs at duty-free stores.
✔ Savor one last cup of authentic Costa Rican coffee, a perfect farewell to this incredible journey.
¡Feliz viaje y hasta la próxima aventura! 🌿🇨🇷✨

Margaritaville-Beach-Resort-Playa-Flamingo

📩 Contact Us to Plan Your Perfect Family Trip!

Let us create a memorable, stress-free vacation tailored for you and your loved ones!

✔ Custom itineraries designed for all ages and interests.
✔ Exciting activities like wildlife safaris, beach days, adventure tours & cultural experiences.
✔ Private transportation & expert guides for a smooth journey.
✔ Family-friendly accommodations in the best destinations.

🌿 Start planning today and create unforgettable memories in Costa Rica! Pura Vida! 🇨🇷