
Costa Rica
Costa Rica - With Flair
Costa Rica - With Flair
Duration
16 days
Start/End
Saint Joseph
Tour type
Individual · Group
Level
Simple
Accommodation
stylish hotels and lodges
Overview
This trip gives you time: hikes on Irazú Volcano and over old lava flows at Arenal, boat trips through the canals of Tortuguero, cloud forest in Monteverde, a horse ride at turquoise Río Celeste and paddling in the Curú nature reserve – with handpicked accommodation.
Experience Costa Rica in style and tranquility: This 16-day tour combines the most beautiful national parks – Tortuguero, Monteverde, and Tenorio – with carefully selected accommodations and relaxing days on the Nicoya Peninsula. You'll hike on the Irazú and Arenal volcanoes, glide by boat through the canals of Tortuguero, ride horses along the turquoise Rio Celeste, and paddle in the Curú Nature Reserve.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Arrival
Flight to San Jose
You fly to San José and arrive in the capital on the same day. After collecting your luggage, you meet your tour guide, who will take you directly to your hotel. You spend one night in San José.
Arrival
Day 1
Flight to San Jose
You fly to San José and arrive in the capital on the same day. After collecting your luggage, you meet your tour guide, who will take you directly to your hotel. You spend one night in San José.
Day 2
San José – Turrialba
Trip to Turrialba • Relaxing at the hotel
Today your journey begins in Turrialba, an idyllic spot offering peace and relaxation amidst rolling hills of sugarcane and coffee plantations. The resort is also ideal for close-up birdwatching. Explore the hotel's hiking trails or unwind by the pool with its stunning mountain views. 2 nights in Turrialba. (B) (Distance: approx. 85 km; Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
San José – Turrialba
Day 2
Trip to Turrialba • Relaxing at the hotel
Today your journey begins in Turrialba, an idyllic spot offering peace and relaxation amidst rolling hills of sugarcane and coffee plantations. The resort is also ideal for close-up birdwatching. Explore the hotel's hiking trails or unwind by the pool with its stunning mountain views. 2 nights in Turrialba. (B) (Distance: approx. 85 km; Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Day 3
Irazu Volcano
Hike on the Irazú volcano • Visit to an abandoned hospital
Today, Costa Rica's highest volcano is on your itinerary. The Irazú Volcano stands at an impressive 3,432 meters. Upon arrival at the national park, you'll hike along the unique crater. You can visit a viewpoint located even higher up, where, weather permitting, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama (accessible on foot or by car). The views will captivate you time and time again! Afterward, you'll experience something truly extraordinary. During a visit to an abandoned hospital, your guide will explain the history of this fascinating place, and together you'll feel transported back in time. (F) (Per trip: Distance: approx. 45 km; Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Irazu Volcano
Day 3
Hike on the Irazú volcano • Visit to an abandoned hospital
Today, Costa Rica's highest volcano is on your itinerary. The Irazú Volcano stands at an impressive 3,432 meters. Upon arrival at the national park, you'll hike along the unique crater. You can visit a viewpoint located even higher up, where, weather permitting, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama (accessible on foot or by car). The views will captivate you time and time again! Afterward, you'll experience something truly extraordinary. During a visit to an abandoned hospital, your guide will explain the history of this fascinating place, and together you'll feel transported back in time. (F) (Per trip: Distance: approx. 45 km; Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Day 4
Turrialba – Tortuguero
Boat trip to Tortuguero National Park • Visit to the village of Tortuguero
Today you'll begin with a special highlight in Costa Rica: Tortuguero National Park. After a bus ride and a 90-minute boat trip, you'll reach your lodge and enjoy lunch. Afterwards, you'll explore the nearby village of Tortuguero, home to just 700 people. Your guide will provide you with comprehensive information about the origins and history of this village. Two nights in Tortuguero. (B/L/D) (Distance: approx. 160 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)
Turrialba – Tortuguero
Day 4
Boat trip to Tortuguero National Park • Visit to the village of Tortuguero
Today you'll begin with a special highlight in Costa Rica: Tortuguero National Park. After a bus ride and a 90-minute boat trip, you'll reach your lodge and enjoy lunch. Afterwards, you'll explore the nearby village of Tortuguero, home to just 700 people. Your guide will provide you with comprehensive information about the origins and history of this village. Two nights in Tortuguero. (B/L/D) (Distance: approx. 160 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)
Day 5
Tortuguero-National Park
Wildlife observation in the hotel garden • Boat tour through the national park
Early in the morning, you have the opportunity to participate in an optional boat tour (optional, bookable on-site, approx. USD 60 per person) to experience the wildlife of Tortuguero National Park during its active morning hours. Upon your return, a hearty breakfast awaits you at your accommodation. Afterward, you will stroll with your guide through the lodge's tropical garden, where you will gain fascinating insights into the diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, you will embark on a boat tour through the national park's canals. Encounter many unique animal and plant species as you slowly cruise along the waterways, listening to the sounds of the animals. Afterward, you will have free time to enjoy the lodge's amenities, explore the surrounding area on your own, or simply relax by the pool before dinner is served. Please note: The order of activities in Tortuguero National Park may vary. (B/L/D)
Tortuguero-National Park
Day 5
Wildlife observation in the hotel garden • Boat tour through the national park
Early in the morning, you have the opportunity to participate in an optional boat tour (optional, bookable on-site, approx. USD 60 per person) to experience the wildlife of Tortuguero National Park during its active morning hours. Upon your return, a hearty breakfast awaits you at your accommodation. Afterward, you will stroll with your guide through the lodge's tropical garden, where you will gain fascinating insights into the diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, you will embark on a boat tour through the national park's canals. Encounter many unique animal and plant species as you slowly cruise along the waterways, listening to the sounds of the animals. Afterward, you will have free time to enjoy the lodge's amenities, explore the surrounding area on your own, or simply relax by the pool before dinner is served. Please note: The order of activities in Tortuguero National Park may vary. (B/L/D)
Day 6
Tortuguero – La Fortuna
Trip to La Fortuna • Relaxation in thermal springs
Your journey continues towards La Fortuna. The majestic Arenal volcano is particularly famous for its perfect cone shape. Weather permitting, you'll catch a glimpse of this imposing giant even before you arrive in La Fortuna. After the eventful past few days, you've earned some relaxation in the hot springs this evening. Enjoy the Ecotermales hot springs with a cocktail in hand, away from the main tourist crowds. Overnight in La Fortuna. (F) (Distance: approx. 155 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)
Tortuguero – La Fortuna
Day 6
Trip to La Fortuna • Relaxation in thermal springs
Your journey continues towards La Fortuna. The majestic Arenal volcano is particularly famous for its perfect cone shape. Weather permitting, you'll catch a glimpse of this imposing giant even before you arrive in La Fortuna. After the eventful past few days, you've earned some relaxation in the hot springs this evening. Enjoy the Ecotermales hot springs with a cocktail in hand, away from the main tourist crowds. Overnight in La Fortuna. (F) (Distance: approx. 155 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)
Day 7
La Fortuna – Monteverde
Hike at the foot of the Arenal volcano • Drive to Monteverde
Together with your guide, you'll explore the area around the Arenal Volcano today. You'll pass through solidified lava fields and enjoy the impressive views (easy, 2 km, walking time: approx. 1.5 hours, +/-40 meters elevation gain/loss). Afterwards, your journey continues around the breathtaking Lake Arenal to Monteverde, nestled in the cloud forest region. You'll spend the next two nights there. (B) (Distance: approx. 120 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)
La Fortuna – Monteverde
Day 7
Hike at the foot of the Arenal volcano • Drive to Monteverde
Together with your guide, you'll explore the area around the Arenal Volcano today. You'll pass through solidified lava fields and enjoy the impressive views (easy, 2 km, walking time: approx. 1.5 hours, +/-40 meters elevation gain/loss). Afterwards, your journey continues around the breathtaking Lake Arenal to Monteverde, nestled in the cloud forest region. You'll spend the next two nights there. (B) (Distance: approx. 120 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)
Day 8
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Monteverde Reserve • Hike in the Curi Cancha Reserve
A visit to the misty Monteverde Reserve is a must on your Costa Rica trip! Here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the 12,000-hectare cloud forest and observe all kinds of animals in their natural habitat. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the resplendent resplendent quetzal. In the afternoon, you'll take a hike in the Curi Cancha Reserve (easy, 3 km, approx. 2 hours). (F)
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Day 8
Monteverde Reserve • Hike in the Curi Cancha Reserve
A visit to the misty Monteverde Reserve is a must on your Costa Rica trip! Here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the 12,000-hectare cloud forest and observe all kinds of animals in their natural habitat. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the resplendent resplendent quetzal. In the afternoon, you'll take a hike in the Curi Cancha Reserve (easy, 3 km, approx. 2 hours). (F)
Day 9
Monteverde – Tenorio
Visit to a coffee farm • Continue to Tenorio National Park
Today you'll gain fascinating insights into the production and history of the so-called "grano de oro" (golden bean). As you stroll through Don Juan's plantation, you'll enjoy the pleasant aroma and the sight of the numerous coffee plants. You'll also learn more about the influence of this precious commodity on the development of the country. Of course, you can also have the opportunity to harvest coffee beans yourself (during harvest season) before continuing on to Tenorio National Park. Two nights there. (B) (Distance: approx. 110 km; Travel time: approx. 2.5 hours)
Monteverde – Tenorio
Day 9
Visit to a coffee farm • Continue to Tenorio National Park
Today you'll gain fascinating insights into the production and history of the so-called "grano de oro" (golden bean). As you stroll through Don Juan's plantation, you'll enjoy the pleasant aroma and the sight of the numerous coffee plants. You'll also learn more about the influence of this precious commodity on the development of the country. Of course, you can also have the opportunity to harvest coffee beans yourself (during harvest season) before continuing on to Tenorio National Park. Two nights there. (B) (Distance: approx. 110 km; Travel time: approx. 2.5 hours)
Day 10
Tenorio
Horse riding along the Rio Celeste • Leisure
Today you'll give your feet a rest and go for a horseback ride. The route will take you along the Rio Celeste, among other places. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. (F)
Tenorio
Day 10
Horse riding along the Rio Celeste • Leisure
Today you'll give your feet a rest and go for a horseback ride. The route will take you along the Rio Celeste, among other places. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. (F)
Day 11
Tenorio – Nicoya Peninsula
Tenorio National Park • Rio Celeste • Drive to Nicoya
Today you'll visit Tenorio National Park. Lush cloud and rainforests provide a haven for many animals. Enjoy the diverse landscape and keep your eyes peeled. The volcano has created a breathtakingly idyllic landscape of waterfalls. Perhaps the most famous attraction in the region is the light blue Rio Celeste, with its uniquely vibrant blue waterfall. Afterward, your journey continues to the Pacific coast. You'll spend the next three nights in a tropically situated hotel near the beach. (B) (Distance: approx. 135 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)
Tenorio – Nicoya Peninsula
Day 11
Tenorio National Park • Rio Celeste • Drive to Nicoya
Today you'll visit Tenorio National Park. Lush cloud and rainforests provide a haven for many animals. Enjoy the diverse landscape and keep your eyes peeled. The volcano has created a breathtakingly idyllic landscape of waterfalls. Perhaps the most famous attraction in the region is the light blue Rio Celeste, with its uniquely vibrant blue waterfall. Afterward, your journey continues to the Pacific coast. You'll spend the next three nights in a tropically situated hotel near the beach. (B) (Distance: approx. 135 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)
Day 12
Curú Nature Reserve
Exploring the reserve • Kayaking or hiking to Playa Quesera • Picnic on the beach
Today you'll explore the Curú Nature Reserve on the Nicoya Peninsula. First, you'll embark on a hike through the reserve, following the tracks of the resident monkeys, ocelots, coatis, and macaws (easy, 3 km, approx. 2.5 hours). Afterward, you'll choose between a kayaking trip or a hike to the beach. Your activity will be rewarded with a picnic of fresh fruit right on the beach. (B/L)
Curú Nature Reserve
Day 12
Exploring the reserve • Kayaking or hiking to Playa Quesera • Picnic on the beach
Today you'll explore the Curú Nature Reserve on the Nicoya Peninsula. First, you'll embark on a hike through the reserve, following the tracks of the resident monkeys, ocelots, coatis, and macaws (easy, 3 km, approx. 2.5 hours). Afterward, you'll choose between a kayaking trip or a hike to the beach. Your activity will be rewarded with a picnic of fresh fruit right on the beach. (B/L)
Day 13
Perhaps
Leisure time • dinner together
Today is yours! Enjoy the tropical gardens and pool at your accommodation, soak up the sun on the nearby sandy beach, or ask your tour guide for tips on optional excursions to the surrounding national parks. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner together and reminisce about your exciting experiences. (B/D)
Perhaps
Day 13
Leisure time • dinner together
Today is yours! Enjoy the tropical gardens and pool at your accommodation, soak up the sun on the nearby sandy beach, or ask your tour guide for tips on optional excursions to the surrounding national parks. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner together and reminisce about your exciting experiences. (B/D)
Day 14
Quizales – San José
Return to San José • Farewell dinner
Your journey is slowly drawing to a close, and so you're heading back to the Central Highlands. After a 90-minute ferry ride across the Gulf of Nicoya, you'll reach Puntarenas and from there continue on to San José. A farewell dinner together will provide an opportunity to reminisce about the experiences of the past few days. You'll spend your last night in a hotel in San José. (B/D) (Distance: approx. 100 km; Travel time: approx. 2 hours)
Quizales – San José
Day 14
Return to San José • Farewell dinner
Your journey is slowly drawing to a close, and so you're heading back to the Central Highlands. After a 90-minute ferry ride across the Gulf of Nicoya, you'll reach Puntarenas and from there continue on to San José. A farewell dinner together will provide an opportunity to reminisce about the experiences of the past few days. You'll spend your last night in a hotel in San José. (B/D) (Distance: approx. 100 km; Travel time: approx. 2 hours)
Day 15
departure
Return flight from San Jose
You bid farewell to the lush greenery of Costa Rica and will be transferred to the airport in due time. From there, you will fly back home. Arrival the following day. (F)
departure
Day 15
Return flight from San Jose
You bid farewell to the lush greenery of Costa Rica and will be transferred to the airport in due time. From there, you will fly back home. Arrival the following day. (F)
Day 16
Arrival back home
Arrival
You land back in Europe.
Arrival back home
Day 16
Arrival
You land back in Europe.
Services
What's included
Scheduled flight in economy class to San José (SJO) and back, subject to availability, possibly plus flight surcharge.
14 nights in a double room with bath or shower/WC, some with air conditioning and pool
Daily breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 picnic, 4 dinners
All transport in air-conditioned vehicles (on days 4 and 6 shared with other travelers)
German-speaking local tour guide
All entrance fees and national park fees
Boat trip in Tortuguero National Park
Hiking at the Irazú volcano, the Arenal volcano and in the Curú nature reserve
Visit to a coffee farm including tasting
Horseback riding along the Rio Celeste
Small group with a maximum of 12 guests
Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 4 guests
What's not included
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
Personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Tips
Feeder flights, other departure airports or Rail&Fly (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Character of the trip
Fitness
Simple
Altitude
Gentle
Culture / nature
Nature-led
This trip is suitable for healthy travelers with a moderate level of fitness and allows plenty of time to settle in. The hikes, such as those at the Irazú volcano, across ancient lava flows at Arenal, and in the cloud forest of Monteverde, require some stamina in the tropical heat and high humidity. It is significantly cooler at Irazú and in Monteverde, so warm clothing for the altitudes should be packed. Sturdy footwear and light rain gear are essential.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Single room supplement from €2,050
For groups of 2 or more, private tours are also available on a date of your choosing; price on request.
