You'll fly to San José. You'll arrive in the capital on the same day. There, you'll receive a warm welcome and be taken to your accommodation in San José. Settle in and get ready for the coming weeks. 3 nights in San José. (Distance: approx. 20 km; travel time: approx. 45 minutes)

After breakfast, you'll explore the sights of the capital on foot. This includes the lively central market, where you'll find exotic fruits and vegetables, as well as household goods and fashion. The market also offers your first interesting opportunities to meet the "Ticos," as the inhabitants of Costa Rica affectionately call themselves. Wander through the narrow aisles and immerse yourself in their daily life. The city tour continues past impressive buildings such as the historic post office, built in 1917 in the neoclassical style. Of course, a visit to the city's landmark, the National Theatre on Plaza de la Cultura, is a must. This building, too, is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. Opened in 1897, the theatre is renowned for its impressive facade, magnificent interiors, and superb acoustics. Many famous artists have graced its stage, delivering unforgettable performances. The Parque Nacional is also well worth a visit. This green oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle. Afterwards, you'll stop at a typical "soda"—a small, local restaurant—and enjoy a traditional lunch. The menu wouldn't be complete without the popular casado: the name means "married" and describes the combination of rice and beans, which, together with fresh salad and optionally a piece of meat, create a harmonious dish. Refreshed, you continue your tour of the city. In the late afternoon, after a short break at your accommodation, you'll discover the historic Barrio Escalante. Your guide will lead you through this vibrant neighborhood, showing you its hidden gems. Stroll past bars and popular restaurants and decide spontaneously if you'd like to stop for a delicious drink. (B/L) If your arrival in San José falls on a Saturday, days 2 and 3 will be swapped, as the central market is closed on Sundays. All included services remain unchanged.

Today you'll get your first glimpse of Costa Rica's impressive natural diversity. Right at the start, you'll encounter one of the country's most famous natural highlights: the Poás Volcano. This active stratovolcano is among the most well-known places in the country and offers a truly unique experience. Located in the heart of Costa Rica, it is particularly impressive for its enormous main crater, which measures approximately 1.5 kilometers in diameter. During a roughly 45-minute walk along the crater rim, you can enjoy the view of the shimmering emerald-green crater lake – weather permitting. The steaming fumaroles, from which hot gases and vapors escape, also make this place a fascinating natural spectacle. Now you'll return to the village. Your tour guide will be happy to recommend one of the local restaurants in the area for your lunch break. In the afternoon, you'll look forward to visiting the traditional Doka coffee plantation, owned by the Vargas Ruiz family. Founded in 1940, the plantation has remained in the family ever since. More than half a million coffee plants thrive here on over 10 hectares – exclusively Arabica, which, thanks to the volcanic soil and ideal climate, is among the best coffees in the country. During your tour, you'll learn how and where this everyday beverage is produced and discover fascinating details about the history of "black gold." Of course, you'll have the opportunity to taste this aromatic specialty yourself. (F) (Distance: approx. 108 km; Travel time: approx. 3 hours)

Today your journey takes you to the famous Tortuguero National Park, a true natural paradise on the Caribbean coast. Covering approximately 77,000 hectares, it boasts dense rainforests, lagoons, canals, and beaches – especially renowned for the sea turtles that come ashore here every year to lay their eggs. Early in the morning, you leave San José and travel through small villages and past extensive banana plantations towards the coast. Along the way, you stop for a traditional second breakfast before completing the final leg of your journey by boat. During the approximately 1 to 1.5-hour trip through the lushly vegetated canals, you might be lucky enough to spot caimans, monkeys, or exotic birds. Arrive at the lodge at your leisure, settle into your room, and enjoy a hearty lunch. In the afternoon, a small boat will take you to the charming village of Tortuguero. Among the small houses, colorful bars, simple shops, and the village school, you'll gain insight into the daily lives of the residents. You'll also learn about the dedicated conservation projects for the sea turtles that lay their eggs on the beaches from July to September. Take a leisurely stroll along the one long street and stop at the shops or bars whenever you like. In the evening, dinner awaits you back at the jungle lodge. Enjoy a relaxing end to the day together. 2 nights in Tortuguero National Park. (B/L/D) (Distance: approx. 100 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

Perhaps you'll be awakened by the sounds of the jungle in the early morning hours, before your day begins with a boat trip through the canals of Tortuguero National Park. Accompanied by the diverse sounds of the rainforest, you'll glide past dense palm groves, ferns, and majestic trees whose roots reach deep into the water. With a bit of luck, you might spot turtles, iguanas, or one of the many bird species. The park's rich monkey population is particularly impressive – including white-fronted capuchins, mantled howler monkeys, and spider monkeys, which nimbly swing from branch to branch. After a hearty breakfast at your lodge, you'll embark on a second boat trip through the water labyrinth, discovering the rainforest from new perspectives. The exact departure time for this tour depends on weather conditions. At the end of the boat tour, a hike on the Jaguar Trail awaits you. This approximately 1.5-hour trail runs parallel to Tortuguero Beach and offers you the opportunity to experience the diverse flora and fauna of the region up close. Along the way, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the tropical landscape. Back at the lodge, lunch awaits you. Afterwards, your guide will accompany you through the expansive grounds. In the lush garden, you'll find tropical plants, colorful butterflies, and tiny frogs. Direct beach access allows for relaxing walks along the miles of coastline – pure idyll. Now you can spend the afternoon entirely as you wish: relax by the pool, swing in one of the hammocks, or enjoy the tranquility of the tropical surroundings. You end the evening with a relaxing dinner at the lodge. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to the tropical scenery of Tortuguero National Park. You'll glide back to the pier by boat through the long waterways before continuing your journey by bus to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí. Along the way, you can stop for a short lunch break – if you wish – and enjoy some local specialties. For a delicious dessert afterward, you'll stop at one of the colorful street stalls: your tour guide knows the best spots and will choose a stall where you can sample fresh fruit. A juicy mango or a sweet banana tastes so much better here than at home, anyway. Once you arrive in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, the afternoon is yours. Let nature work its magic on you at your lodge. As dusk falls, you'll take a guided evening walk along the lodge's trails. Equipped with flashlights, you'll search for the rainforest's nocturnal inhabitants – perhaps a frog will glow in the light, its camouflage sure to be excellent. Those who wish and are still in the mood for a local dinner can join the tour guide at "Restaurante Pollo Ranchero." Here you'll find classic dishes such as the casado from the first day in San José or "Spaghetti Pura Vida." 2 nights in Sarapiquí. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 90 km; Travel time: approx. 2 hours)

In the morning, you'll set off for the Tirimbina Reserve. A long suspension bridge will take you right into the heart of the lush rainforest. On an easy hike (approx. 4 km, walking time: about 2.5 hours), you'll explore the verdant vegetation, listen to the birdsong, and keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and other forest inhabitants. Here, the full diversity of the tropical habitat unfolds before you. Next, you'll delve into one of Costa Rica's most famous products: cacao. On a small cacao plantation in the heart of the reserve, you'll learn how delicious chocolate is made from this bitter fruit. From roasting to grinding, you'll learn each step and, of course, have the opportunity to sample the different varieties. For lunch, you'll be a guest at Finca Ecorganica Sarapiquí. A walk along the farm's paths will give you fascinating insights into the sustainable cultivation of various products, and you'll have the opportunity to sample fresh produce right there. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some of the birds or frogs that inhabit the fields during your stroll. You can spend the evening as you wish. Enjoy a relaxed dinner in your lodge or return to the "Restaurante Pollo Ranchero," where you can choose from a variety of typical dishes. (F/M) (Distance: approx. 40 km; Travel time: approx. 2 hours)

Today you continue your journey through the idyllic landscape of Costa Rica to La Fortuna. This small town is picturesquely situated at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano, whose almost perfect cone shape rises impressively from the landscape. Together with your guide, you'll choose one of the many hiking trails suitable for your small group and explore the national park surrounding the volcano. You'll experience the breathtaking natural scenery up close – and perhaps a detour to the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall will tempt you, plunging some 70 meters into the depths amidst dense vegetation. Your guide knows the exciting trails and where to find the best spots for a wonderful view of the volcano or pure tranquility in the heart of the rainforest. As you continue your journey towards La Fortuna, there are plenty of opportunities to stop at various viewpoints, from which you can enjoy spectacular views of the volcano – weather permitting. Have your camera ready, as Arenal Volcano is one of the most famous photo subjects in the country! The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. How about a soak in the hot springs for which La Fortuna is famous? The mineral-rich water, fed by the geothermal energy of the volcano, is perfect for relaxation and has always been valued for its soothing effects. In the evening, you have the option of participating in a guided night walk in the Arenal Oasis Wildlife Reserve. Armed with flashlights, you'll immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of the rainforest and experience the fascinating world of its nocturnal inhabitants (optional, bookable on-site, from approximately USD 50 per person). 1 night in La Fortuna. (B) (Distance: approx. 85 km; Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)

After breakfast, you'll set off for Rincón de la Vieja. The drive takes you through diverse landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities for short photo stops – whether it's a sweeping view across lush green plains or a glimpse of small villages typical of this region. You might even spot a sloth or two along the way and pull over for a quick photo. You'll also stop at a local shop to pick up some snacks for later. In the afternoon, you'll enjoy a leisurely hike (easy, approx. 1.5 km, approx. 1 hour) to the Chorreras Waterfall. Here, a picturesque waterfall cascades side by side into a turquoise natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation – an ideal spot to cool off or simply soak up the atmosphere. Enjoy your packed snacks in this idyllic setting and linger until the light begins to change and the sun sets. 2 nights in Rincón de la Vieja. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 156 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

Today you'll spend the day in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, one of Costa Rica's most fascinating nature reserves. The expansive area is characterized by impressive geological diversity and exceptional scenic beauty. At the heart of the park rises the volcano of the same name, its summit reaching 1,916 meters and towering majestically over the surrounding landscape. During your walk along the park's trails, you'll discover not only rushing waterfalls and lush vegetation, but also the park's unique geothermal activity. Steam rises and bubbles abound: bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and hot fumaroles make the immense forces beneath the earth's surface palpable, creating a unique, almost mystical atmosphere. With a bit of luck, you might encounter the park's animal inhabitants along the way. Playful monkeys, leisurely dozing sloths, or colorful exotic birds ensure that the hike remains exciting not only in terms of scenery but also wildlife. In the afternoon, relaxation takes center stage: You'll visit the Rio Negro Hot Pools, natural thermal springs nestled amidst lush tropical greenery. Fed by the volcanic energy of Rincón de la Vieja, the mineral-rich water offers pure rejuvenation after the adventures of the past few days. Several pools at varying temperatures invite you to bathe – surrounded by dense vegetation and accompanied by the gentle murmur of the river. Perhaps you'll even treat yourself to a soothing mud wrap before rinsing off in the clear water and starting your evening feeling completely refreshed. To round off the day, the hotel grounds offer a particularly beautiful spot to admire the sunset. Relax and enjoy the evening, then look forward to the next day when you'll explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park with its volcanic landscape. Your tour guide has brought a small bottle of the local spirit, Cacique. It's traditionally served with tamarind juice and lime. Perhaps you'd like to try it and round off the day in style. (F)

After breakfast you will have some free time – you can start the morning at your leisure or explore the surroundings on your own. Afterwards, you continue your journey to Monteverde, known for its mysterious cloud forests and unique biodiversity. Upon arrival at your accommodation, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Perhaps you'll take the opportunity for a first visit to nearby Santa Elena. Stroll through the charming streets of this mountain town, browse the shops selling local products, or treat yourself to a coffee made with beans from the surrounding vineyards in one of the cozy cafes. Homemade ice cream is also a wonderful way to experience Monteverde's relaxed atmosphere. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the tranquility of your accommodation and prepare yourself for the nature adventures of the coming days in the cloud forest. 2 nights in Monteverde. (B) (Distance: approx. 138 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

Early in the morning, you have the opportunity to participate in an optional birdwatching tour in the Curi Cancha Reserve (optional, bookable on-site, approx. USD 140 per person). You'll stroll at a relaxed pace along the well-maintained trails of the Curi Cancha Reserve. With a bit of luck, you'll spot hummingbirds, toucans, tanagers, motmots, and, with a great deal of luck, the legendary resplendent quetzal. Afterwards, a special experience awaits: Together with your tour guide, you will hike across a system of suspension bridges in Monteverde National Park (easy, approx. 3.5 km, walking time: approx. 2.5 hours). From the suspended bridges, you will enjoy fascinating views of the cloud forest canopy – a sea of ferns, orchids, climbing plants, and moss-covered branches. This afternoon you also have time to explore the village of Santa Elena on your own. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit one of the charming cafes, or browse the shops selling local products. Your tour guide will surely have another good suggestion for dinner, and perhaps you'll feel like going out to eat together in the small group again. (F) (Distance: approx. 20 km; travel time: approx. 45 minutes)

In the early morning hours, you leave Monteverde and finally head to the stunning Pacific coast. Your first destination is Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most famous and beautiful national parks in the country. It protects not only picturesque beaches with golden sand and turquoise water, but also the rainforest behind them – a fascinating interplay of jungle and sea. Together you decide whether you want to explore the park or jump straight into the cool waves. Those who choose to explore the park can follow the narrow paths through lush green vegetation on an easy hike. With a bit of luck, you might spot coatis, sloths dozing high up in the trees, and cheeky squirrel monkeys swinging through the branches. Over 350 plant species and more than 300 mammal and bird species make the park a true natural paradise. Of course, there will also be time to relax on one of the idyllic beaches. In the afternoon, you continue your journey and reach Dominical, a relaxed coastal town known for its beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Here you can unwind after an eventful day in a tropical setting. 2 nights in Dominical. (B) (Distance: approx. 270 km; Travel time: approx. 5 hours)

Today begins in a relaxed manner – or, if you prefer, with a special experience: an optional whale watching tour in Marino-Ballena National Park (optional, bookable locally, approx. USD 110 per person, minimum 2 people). During the boat trip, you'll explore the coastline around Ballena Island and the impressive Ventanas sea caves. With a bit of luck, you might even spot dolphins. Please note that the whale watching season runs from July to mid-November and from mid-December to April, and the tour is conducted exclusively with an English-speaking guide. In the afternoon, you'll meet up again with your small group and tour guide for one last time: pura vida on the beach. You'll visit various stretches of coastline around Dominical, each unique and picturesque. Perhaps you'll sink your feet into the warm sand, refresh yourself in the waves, or simply enjoy the tropical scenery. To conclude the day, a typical Costa Rican experience awaits you at Playa Dominical. You'll sit on the beach with your fellow travelers in a relaxed atmosphere and enjoy a delicious hot dog, almost like the locals would. A perfect moment to reflect on the past few days. (F/S)

Your transfer back to San José airport will be waiting for you at the appropriate time. From there, you'll fly home with countless memories. (F) (Distance: approx. 210 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

With many images of volcanoes, rainforests and Pacific beaches in your head, you land back in Germany.