Day 1: Arrival Transfer From Sjo Airport To San José City
Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), you will be greeted by one of our local representatives, who will assist you with any necessary information and ensure a smooth start to your journey. Departure on your private land transfer to your first hotel
Day 2: Regular Transfer From San José To Tortuguero
Duration: 3 hours on route & 1 hour and 30 minutes on boat approx.
* The provided time is approximate and may vary depending on the port where guests board or disembark.
Early Departure to Tortuguero
At the scheduled time, meet at the hotel reception for a semi-collective transfer to the breathtaking Tortuguero region, located in Costa Rica’s North Caribbean. Renowned as one of the country’s top ecotourism destinations, Tortuguero National Park was established in 1970 to protect endangered sea turtles that nest along its shores. Its intricate network of canals, rivers, and lagoons showcases a remarkable fusion of rainforest, freshwater, and marine ecosystems, making it a true haven for research and ecotourism.
Along the way, enjoy a stop in the town of Guápiles for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a local private restaurant before continuing to the pier. There, you will board a boat to Tortuguero—a journey that serves as a stunning introduction to the heart of the rainforest. As you navigate the winding canals, immerse yourself in the lush scenery, where vibrant shades of green and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable experience.
Welcome to Tortuguero
Upon arrival at the lodge, check in, settle into your room, and savor a delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, meet your local guide for an excursion to the charming Tortuguero Village. This unique town, home to approximately 500 residents, is nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the tranquil canals. With no cars and only footpaths, Tortuguero offers an authentic glimpse into the relaxed Caribbean way of life. Stroll through its colorful streets, interact with the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this remote yet captivating community.
Note: The order of activities in Tortuguero may vary based on hotel operations.
Day 3: Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour & Guided Walk Through The Lodge's Private Trails.
Rise early for an unforgettable morning immersed in nature. Meet your guide for a boat tour at sunrise through the breathtaking canals of Tortuguero National Park (entrance fee included), where the jungle awakens with the sounds of wildlife. Capture stunning photos as you glide through the waterways, exploring a vast network of canals, lagoons, and dense rainforests with an expert naturalist guide.
Tortuguero is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, sloths, caimans, toucans, and other exotic creatures that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
After this magical experience, return to the lodge to enjoy a well-deserved breakfast.
At the appropriate time, the guide will take guests on a guided walk through the lodge's private trails. Along the way, guests may encounter monkeys, sloths, toucans, frogs, and a diverse array of exotic plants. This walk is perfect for nature lovers seeking an up-close encounter with the beauty and wonder of the Costa Rican rainforest.
Rest of the day at leisure in order to enjoy the last afternoon in Tortuguero.
Day 4: Departure To La Fortuna, Arenal
Regular transfer from Tortuguero to Guápiles village
Duration: 02 hours approx.
* The provided time is approximate and may vary depending on the port where guests board or disembark.
After breakfast, check out and prepare to continue your adventure. Board a shared transfer by boat and land from Tortuguero to Guápiles, where you will enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant.
Self-drive from Guápiles to La Fortuna, Arenal
Duration: 02 hours approx.
After lunch, meet the Car Rental Representative, who will provide you with your rental vehicle and all necessary information for your self-drive journey to La Fortuna, Arenal, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Meeting point for the car collection
At the restaurant located in Guápiles, where the guests will enjoy the lunch. Around 13h.
The representant will arrive at the restaurant to drop off the car.
Journey to La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano
Before December 2010, Arenal was among the world’s ten most active volcanoes, regularly spewing molten rock and ash into the sky. While its lava eruptions have paused, the volcano remains an awe-inspiring sight, with occasional smoke and ash emissions from its summit.
Upon arrival in La Fortuna, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax and unwind, enjoying the hotel’s facilities and the surrounding natural beauty.
Day 5: Explore & Enjoy Arenal At Your Own Pace
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by free time to relax or explore the Arenal region at your own pace. Whether you prefer soaking in natural hot springs, hiking Arenal Volcano trails, visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, white-water rafting on the Balsa River, or ziplining through the forest, there's something for everyone. La Fortuna offers a perfect mix of nature and adventure as an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica's most scenic areas.
Day 6: Explore & Enjoy Arenal At Your Own Pace
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by free time to relax or explore the Arenal region at your own pace. Whether you prefer soaking in natural hot springs, hiking Arenal Volcano trails, visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, white-water rafting on the Balsa River, or ziplining through the forest, there's something for everyone. La Fortuna offers a perfect mix of nature and adventure as an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica's most scenic areas.
Day 7: Self Drive From La Fortuna, Arenal To Monteverde
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to Monteverde, a magical cloud forest known for its misty atmosphere and rich biodiversity. This unique destination combines tranquility, adventure, and culture. Explore hanging bridges, zipline through the canopy, join cultural and culinary experiences, or discover nocturnal wildlife on a night walk. Monteverde offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
Day 8: Monteverde
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy a leisurely day exploring Monteverde at your own pace. Discover the cloud forest’s magic with ziplining, hanging bridges, cultural experiences, or a guided night walk. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, Monteverde promises a day full of wonder and unforgettable moments.
Day 9: Self Drive From Monteverde To Manuel Antonio
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to Monteverde, a magical cloud forest known for its misty atmosphere and rich biodiversity. This unique destination combines tranquility, adventure, and culture. Explore hanging bridges, zipline through the canopy, join cultural and culinary experiences, or discover nocturnal wildlife on a night walk. Monteverde offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
Day 10: Manuel Antonio
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy free time to explore Manuel Antonio at your own pace.
Hike through the national park to spot wildlife and enjoy pristine beaches, or choose from activities like kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, or a catamaran tour. For a more laid-back day, relax on the beach and soak in the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.
Day 11: Manuel Antonio
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy free time to explore Manuel Antonio at your own pace.
Hike through the national park to spot wildlife and enjoy pristine beaches, or choose from activities like kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, or a catamaran tour. For a more laid-back day, relax on the beach and soak in the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.
Day 12: Arrival To Puerto Jimenez, South Pacific
Nestled in the heart of the Golfo Dulce, Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is a truly unique eco-lodge surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and jade-colored waters. Here, nature takes center stage: giant elephant-ear leaves, dazzling blue butterflies, playful monkeys, vibrant toucans, iguanas, and even dolphins can all be spotted in this pristine paradise.
Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Playa Nicuesa offers it all. Guests can enjoy kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, rainforest hikes, and wildlife viewing right at the doorstep. For a slower pace, yoga sessions and soothing massages provide the perfect balance.
Stay in private jungle cabins or uniquely designed lodge rooms that blend seamlessly with nature. At the treehouse-style restaurant, indulge in an authentic Costa Rican culinary experience with freshly caught fish, locally grown vegetables, and tropical fruits, all while overlooking the lush forest canopy.
Sustainability is at the core of Nicuesa: the lodge was thoughtfully built using naturally fallen wood, recycled materials, and powered by solar energy. Its secluded location adds to its charm—the lodge is only accessible by boat, ensuring exclusivity and tranquility.
Access:
The easiest way to reach Nicuesa is by driving to Golfito (approx. 3 hours from Manuel Antonio) and continuing to Marina Bahía Golfito. You can return your rental car at the marina. From there, a Nicuesa representative will meet guests and transfer them by boat across the Golfo Dulce (about 30 minutes).
Please note: Nicuesa’s transfer boat service operates only until 1:00 p.m.
Day 13: Wildlife Encounters
Wake up to the sounds of the rainforest and the ocean at your doorstep. Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in this unique eco-lodge, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Golfo Dulce and the lush Piedras Blancas National Park.
You may choose to relax on the secluded beach, practice yoga, or simply unwind in a hammock while listening to the symphony of nature. For those seeking activity, the lodge offers optional experiences such as kayaking in turquoise waters, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, guided hikes, or wildlife observation right on the property’s trails.
Whether you prefer adventure or pure relaxation, Playa Nicuesa Lodge offers the perfect setting to connect with nature in its most authentic form.
Day 14: Wildlife Encounters
Wake up to the sounds of the rainforest and the ocean at your doorstep. Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in this unique eco-lodge, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Golfo Dulce and the lush Piedras Blancas National Park.
You may choose to relax on the secluded beach, practice yoga, or simply unwind in a hammock while listening to the symphony of nature. For those seeking activity, the lodge offers optional experiences such as kayaking in turquoise waters, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, guided hikes, or wildlife observation right on the property’s trails.
Whether you prefer adventure or pure relaxation, Playa Nicuesa Lodge offers the perfect setting to connect with nature in its most authentic form.
Day 15: Farewell To The South Pacific – Domestic Flight To San José
After breakfast, enjoy your last moments surrounded by the tranquility of the rainforest and ocean views. At the scheduled time, check out from the lodge and transfer to the local airstrip for your domestic flight back to San José.
During the short but scenic flight, admire the stunning aerial views of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes — from the lush South Pacific coast to the Central Valley. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in San José for your final overnight stay in Costa Rica, with time to relax and prepare for your international departure the following day.
Day 16: Departure Day
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out. At the scheduled time, transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your departure flight.
We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s natural beauty, adventure, and warm hospitality. Safe travels and hasta pronto!
