💦Caribbean Sunrise to Pacific Sunset
13D / 12N
Itinerary
For families and nature lovers, the «Caribbean Sunrise to Pacific Sunset Tour» offers the perfect blend of adventure and wildlife exploration, creating unforgettable moments to share with relatives or friends.
Travel from coast to coast, experiencing Costa Rica’s breathtaking biodiversity through boat safaris, scenic hikes, and thrilling zip-lining adventures. Along the way, encounter monkeys, toucans, crocodiles, turtles, iguanas, sloths, and more, as you immerse yourself in the country’s most stunning landscapes.
This tour is an extraordinary journey across diverse ecosystems, allowing you to witness the natural beauty of both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts in one unforgettable experience.
Description of activities and areas to visit
Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel at your own pace. Take this time to settle in, relax, and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead in this beautiful tropical paradise.
Overnight at Hilton Garden Sabana or similar.
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Irazú Volcano, the highest in Costa Rica, standing at 3,432 meters above sea level. Hike to its enormous main crater and experience the thrill of walking through an almost lunar landscape, shaped by centuries of volcanic activity.
✔ Unparalleled Views – On a clear day, witness the rare phenomenon of seeing both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans from the summit.
✔ Breathtaking Scenery – Mist often rolls over the barren terrain, creating a mystical and surreal atmosphere.
✔ Unique Flora & Fauna – Despite the extreme conditions, observe resilient vegetation and high-altitude bird species.
🏛 Afternoon: Orosi Valley – History, Coffee & Scenic Beauty
Continue your journey through the picturesque Orosi Valley, a region known for its colonial heritage, coffee plantations, and stunning landscapes.
✔ Visit the Church of San José de Orosi, the oldest functioning church in Costa Rica, where traditional architecture and a small museum offer a glimpse into the country’s colonial past.
✔ Explore Rolling Coffee Plantations – Learn about the coffee cultivation process, from harvesting to roasting, in one of Costa Rica’s most important coffee-producing regions.
✔ Relax at Lake Cachí – This tranquil reservoir, surrounded by lush mountains, is perfect for:
• Enjoying a peaceful walk along its scenic shores.
• Capturing stunning panoramic photographs.
• Savoring traditional Costa Rican dishes in local restaurants with breathtaking views.
This day offers a perfect mix of adventure, history, and relaxation, showcasing some of Costa Rica’s most iconic landscapes and cultural treasures.
🌿 Pura Vida! 🇨🇷
Overnight at Hilton Garden Sabana or similar.
🌿 Trip to Cahuita National Park and Punta Cocles After breakfast, an exciting road trip begins through some of the most stunning landscapes of Costa Rica. Your first stop is Cahuita National Park, where you will explore its scenic trails in search of monkeys, toucans, trogons, lizards, and other fascinating wildlife. This coastal paradise features pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant marine life, making it an ideal destination for both hiking and relaxation.
🚗 Scenic Drive Through Braulio Carrillo National Park On the way to the Caribbean coast, you’ll cross the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a spectacular expanse of towering mountains, dense rainforests, and countless waterfalls. This region, which receives 4,500 mm of rainfall per year, is home to deep canyons, high-gradient slopes, and rich biodiversity. Key highlights along the route include: ✔ The Río Sucio, an unusual orange-colored river caused by mineral deposits. ✔ Two extinct volcanoes—Barva & Cacho Negro, featuring stunning lagoons and lakes, including the Danta Lagoon, the largest in the area with a 1,500-foot diameter.
🌊 Explore Cahuita & Continue to Punta Cocles Cahuita is a beach lover’s paradise, offering crystal-clear waters, exotic flora and fauna, and excellent surf conditions. After soaking in its beauty, you’ll continue your journey to Punta Cocles, Limón, your home for the next two nights, where the Caribbean charm and natural wonders await.
Overnight at Overnight at Almonds and Corals or similar.
🌴 Experience the Vibrance of Puerto Viejo & the Caribbean Coast
Without a doubt, Puerto Viejo is the perfect reflection of Afro-Caribbean culture, bursting with color, flavor, music, and gastronomy. This coastal paradise embodies the dream of tropical beaches, where coconut palms, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife create an unforgettable atmosphere.
🌿 Wildlife Refuge & Caribbean Adventure
Today, immerse yourself in nature with a visit to a Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll have the opportunity to encounter the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica’s Caribbean region. Afterward, continue exploring the breathtaking coastline, soaking in the relaxed vibe and natural beauty of this unique destination.
🏝 Explore Punta Cocles Beach
Just steps from your hotel, Punta Cocles Beach offers a stunning spot to walk, relax, or enjoy the waves. Whether you prefer to swim, sunbathe, or simply take in the scenery, this is the perfect place to end the day in harmony with nature.
Visiting two opposite coasts in one trip is a rare experience, making this Caribbean adventure even more special!
Overnight at Overnight at Almonds and Corals or similar.
🌅 Early Morning: Departure to Tortuguero National Park, Begin your adventure with an early morning departure to Tortuguero National Park, a biodiversity hotspot often referred to as the «Little Amazon of Costa Rica» due to its meandering canals, dense rainforests, and rich wildlife.
✔ Scenic Boat Transfer – Upon arrival, board a boat that will navigate through the lush waterways, offering a front-row seat to nature’s wonders.
✔ Wildlife Watching – Spot monkeys swinging in the treetops, caimans gliding through the water, and an impressive variety of birds such as toucans, herons, and egrets.
✔ Immerse Yourself in Nature – Enjoy the serene and untouched landscapes, where water and jungle intertwine to create one of Costa Rica’s most remarkable ecosystems.
🍽 Noon: Lunch at a Jungle Lodge
Upon reaching Tortuguero, enjoy a delicious lunch at a lodge nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Take this moment to:
✔ Relax and take in the tranquil surroundings.
✔ Observe the sights and sounds of the jungle, with birds, butterflies, and tropical plants all around.
✔ Prepare for an afternoon of cultural and conservation experiences.
🏡 Afternoon: Discover Tortuguero Village & Conservation Efforts
✔ Explore the village of Tortuguero, a small yet vibrant community where you’ll learn about local traditions and the people’s deep connection with wildlife conservation.
✔ Visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy Museum, a leading research center dedicated to the protection and study of sea turtles.
✔ Learn about:
• The life cycle of sea turtles and their nesting habits.
• The conservation challenges they face and how local efforts are making a difference.
• The ecological significance of Tortuguero as a key nesting site for the Green Sea Turtle, one of the most important in the Western Hemisphere.
This day offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, and wildlife conservation, making Tortuguero a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
🌿 Pura Vida! 🇨🇷
Overnight in Arenal at Ever Green or similar
Sunrise: Boat tour through the canals of the Costa Rican jungle, a magical spectacle where the morning mist envelops the lush vegetation and wildlife awakens with the first rays of the 🌅 Sunrise: Boat Safari Through the Tortuguero Canals
Begin your day with an unforgettable sunrise boat tour, gliding through the mist-covered canals of the Costa Rican jungle. As the first rays of sun filter through the dense vegetation, witness the awakening of the rainforest, where wildlife activity is at its peak.
The serene beauty of the canals, combined with the rich biodiversity, makes this a magical and immersive experience.
🍽 Morning: Breakfast & Rainforest Hike
Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast, then prepare for an on-foot jungle adventure.
✔ Hike through the towering rainforest, surrounded by an incredible variety of flora and fauna.
✔ Listen to the chorus of birds and the distant roar of howler monkeys.
✔ Learn about the complex ecosystem, from towering trees to medicinal plants used by locals.
🌿 Noon: Lunch & Relaxation in the Heart of the Jungle
After the morning’s adventures, enjoy lunch in the tranquil jungle setting, taking time to rest before the afternoon excursion.
🚤 Afternoon: Explore a New Canal & Discover More Wildlife
In the afternoon, embark on another boat tour, this time venturing into a different canal, offering a new perspective on the diverse ecosystems of Tortuguero.
✔ Glide through calm waters, where the jungle reflects beautifully on the surface.
✔ Search for poison dart frogs, otters, and river turtles, hidden among the vegetation.
✔ Witness the jungle’s natural rhythms, where every turn reveals a new surprise.
This full-day expedition provides a deep connection to nature, making Tortuguero one of the best destinations for wildlife lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
Overnight in Arenal at Ever Green or similar
🚗 Morning: Scenic Drive to Arenal Volcano
After a delicious breakfast, embark on a journey to one of Costa Rica’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders—the Arenal Volcano.
✔ Arenal: A Legendary Stratovolcano – Rising 1,710 meters above sea level, this perfectly conical volcano was Costa Rica’s most active until 2010, frequently treating visitors to spectacular eruptions.
✔ Arenal Volcano National Park – Located within a vast protected area, the volcano and its surrounding landscapes boast rich biodiversity, hiking trails, and incredible views of Lake Arenal.
✔ Eruptive History – With a 7,000-year geological history, Arenal has shaped the region’s landscape, creating fertile soils, lush rainforests, and the famous hot springs.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Arenal’s towering peak and surrounding tropical forests.
🌿 Night: Optional Visit to Arenal’s Natural Hot Springs (Not Included)
End your day with the ultimate relaxation experience by visiting the natural hot springs of Arenal.
✔ Soak in volcanic thermal pools, enriched with healing minerals.
✔ Enjoy a serene atmosphere, surrounded by lush tropical gardens.
✔ Feel completely rejuvenated, as the warmth of the water melts away any fatigue from the journey.
This day perfectly blends adventure, breathtaking scenery, and relaxation, preparing you for the upcoming explorations in the Arenal region!
Overnight in Arenal at Arenal Paraíso or similar
🌋 Morning Hike: Lava Flow Trail & Arenal Volcano National Park
Start your day with a scenic hike along the Lava Flow Trail in Arenal Volcano National Park or the Ecolago Reserve. These trails take you through lush tropical forests, home to majestic trees like the Ceibo and Guarumo, where numerous bird species nest.
Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of ancient lava flows and Arenal Lake, making this an ideal spot for wildlife observation, birdwatching, and unforgettable photography.
💦 Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall & Swim in its Crystal Waters
Next, take a short but steep hike down to the famous La Fortuna Waterfall, a 70-meter cascade plunging into a gorgeous emerald-green swimming hole. Surrounded by lush rainforest and protected by a local conservation project, this is one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Take a refreshing swim in its cool waters or simply soak in the stunning scenery.
🌿 Afternoon at Leisure
After your morning adventures, choose to:
✔ Explore the town of La Fortuna, known for its local charm and artisan shops.
✔ Relax at your hotel, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and natural beauty of the area.
A day filled with adventure, nature, and relaxation, offering an unforgettable experience in Arenal!
Overnight in Arenal at Arenal Paraíso or similar
🚗 Journey to Guanacaste with a Stop at Río Celeste
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive toward the northern Pacific of Costa Rica. But before reaching your destination, make sure to visit one of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders—Río Celeste.
💦 Hike to the Stunning Río Celeste Waterfall
Enjoy a beautiful nature walk along a 2 km trail that winds through the lush rainforest, leading to several points of interest:
✔ The breathtaking Río Celeste Waterfall, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters.
✔ The Blue Pool, a mesmerizing natural lagoon with an intense blue hue.
After immersing yourself in this magical setting, return along the one-way path and continue your journey to the Guanacaste province, where new adventures await.
Afternoon arrival to Hacienda Guachipelin
Overnight at Hacienda Guachipelin or similar.
🌋 Morning Hike: Las Pailas Trail & Oropéndola Waterfall
Start your day with a hike along the spectacular Las Pailas Trail in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you’ll witness the fascinating transition from rainforest to dry tropical forest. Along the way, explore bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles, clear signs of the volcano’s geothermal activity.
Keep your eyes open for wildlife, as this area is home to:
✔ Monkeys (howler, white-faced capuchins, and spider monkeys).
✔ Agoutis, coatimundis, and other small mammals.
✔ Tropical birds, including the vibrant turquoise-browed motmot.
💦 Refreshing Swim at Oropéndola Waterfall
After the hike, head to the Oropéndola Waterfall, a hidden gem just a 15-minute walk from the trail, crossing a suspension bridge. The stunning turquoise pool at the base of the waterfall offers the perfect spot for a refreshing swim in nature’s beauty.
🌿 Afternoon Relaxation at Río Negro Hot Springs
Around 3:00 PM, unwind at the Río Negro Hot Springs, where you can soak in naturally heated volcanic waters surrounded by lush tropical scenery. Let the warm, mineral-rich waters provide a perfect end to a day of adventure.
Overnight at Hacienda Guachipelin or similar.
🌿 Morning Hike to Chorreras Waterfall & Journey to Flamingo Beach
Start your day with a hike to Chorreras Waterfall, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and the breathtaking Río Blanco Canyon. This scenic spot offers the perfect opportunity for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
As you walk, you’ll pass through spiny cedar tree plantations and a small patch of Tropical Dry Forest, a unique ecosystem that contrasts with the lush rainforests found elsewhere in Costa Rica. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore secondary trails leading to additional hidden blue pools, making this hike even more magical.
🏝 Transfer to Flamingo Beach – The Gold Coast of Costa Rica
After soaking in the beauty of the dry forest, continue your journey to Flamingo Beach, located on Costa Rica’s famous Gold Coast in Guanacaste. On the way, visit the ophiolitic complex, a fascinating geological formation that tells the story of the country’s ancient volcanic past.
☀️ Free Afternoon in Flamingo Beach
Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Flamingo Beach, known for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets. Whether you choose to swim, relax by the shore, or explore the charming beach town, this is the perfect place to unwind and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Overnight in Arenal at Margaritaville or similar.
🏖 Day at Leisure: Relax or Explore
Enjoy a day at your own pace—whether you prefer to unwind by the beach or set out on an adventure along Costa Rica’s stunning coastline.
For those looking for extra activities, you can:
✔ 🏄 Rent a surfboard and ride the waves at nearby surf-friendly beaches.
✔ 🚴 Rent a bike and explore hidden beaches and tidal pools, riding as far as you wish along scenic coastal trails.
Whether you choose relaxation or adventure, this is the perfect opportunity to embrace the beauty and freedom of Guanacaste’s Gold Coast.
Overnight in Margaritaville or similar.
At the scheduled time, transfer to Liberia International Airport for your return flight to Syracuse. Take with you unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and incredible adventures
¡Hasta pronto y buen viaje! 🇨🇷✨
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