San José is located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. It’s surrounded by majestic volcanoes and lush green mountains. It was founded almost three centuries ago, which means it holds a great amount of history, be it buildings, museums and monuments.

The architecture varies as you walk around. In the northern side, you’ll find clear examples of early 20th- century urban planning, however, they still hold a deep sense of Costa Rican style.

The National Park Poás Volcano

After picking up your rental car, you’ll begin the drive to Poás Volcano National Park. This will be a self-guided visit, where you’ll hike toward the mountain’s peak, and if the weather is clear, you’ll be able to see the crater, which is 300 meters deep (984.2 feet) and one of the largest in the world.

La Paz Waterfall

After that stop, you will head to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, one of Costa Rica’s most beloved nature parks.

After lunch, you will take a self-guided tour through the waterfall trails, where you will be able to walk past five spectacular waterfalls, hidden away inside pristine forests. If you want, you will also be able to see the wildlife exhibits that are within the property, including: a butterflly observatory, hummingbird gardens, a jungle cat rescue center, and more.

After this, you will head back to San José for your final night on the capital.

From San José to Boca Tapada: A Journey Into Pristine Tropical Elegance

In the morning, you’ll drive towards Costa Rica’s northern border, heading to the secluded and little-known region of Boca Tapada. This is paradise for eco-travelers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers.

Far away from the hustle and bustle of the most touristic places, this area is encircled by primary rainforest, wetlands and protected reserves such as Maquenque Wildlife Refuge, which is famous for being one of the few remaining nesting sites for the great green macaw, an endangered species emblematic of Costa Rica’s conservation efforts.

Upon arrival, you’ll have to check in at your eco-lodge, which is designed to blend in seamlessly with the natural enviroment, and each cabin offers direct access to the trails, wildlife observation decks, peaceful riverfront views.

You’ll then have the afternoon to wander around through the forest or just relax on a hammock.

After breakfast, you will have a guided our through one of the most scenic and biodiverse waterways in northern Costa Rica. Dense rainforest, overhanging trees and the sounds of the tropical wildlife will accompany you through the whole trip.

This river houses alligators, otters, turtles, herons, kingfishers, and even howler mokeys swinging about on the trees above.

This tour takes you almost all the way to the border with Nicaragua, and you can enjoy the remoteness while learning about the cultural and natural significance of the area.

After the tour, return to the lodge for lunch

From Boca Tapada to Arenal: Journey Into the Heart of Volcano Country

After enjoying the breakfast, you will drive south towards La Fortuna, where the Arenal Volcano is located, one of the many iconic and vibrant destinations in Costa Rica.

This volcano was once of the most actibe in the world, until it came almost to a halt in recent years. It rises dramatically over the tropical landscape, which creates a stunning backdrop of verdant forests, cascading waterfalls and sparkling lakes.

La Fortuna is enchanting enough on its own, though. Full of culture, excellent dining options and the lively atmosphere come together to give way to their lifestyle.

The first aventure of the day: Explore the  1968´s park

Upon arrival, you will have a self-guided tour through the 1968 Volcano Trail, which showcases the aftermath of the volcanic eruption that took place on 1968, this trail features old lava fields, secondary forests, and vantage points of panoramic views of the volcano and the nearby Lake Arenal.

Aerial tram & ziplines tour

Start the day with an exciting aerial tram tour through the lush canopy of the Arenal rainforest. Gently glide above the treetops. This tour offers a peaceful way to experience the volcano, Lake Arenal and the surrounding forest.

Then, get your adrenaline fix with a mind-blowing zipline tour. Feel the thrill of flying over the treetops, surrounded by wildlife and splendid views.

Then, you will have the afternoon to leisurely explore La Fortuna, where, if you want, you could sign up for activities such as horseback riding, waterfall visits, or spa treatments.

Day pass at Paradise Hot Springs

On the evening, you will have a chance to unwind at the renowned Paradise Hot Springs, where you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich thermal pools set in a peaceful tropical garden.

Arenal Awaits: The Adventure Continues

Safari float

After breakfast, you will have a safari float tour down the Caño Blanco River, a peaceful and scenic journey through the heart of Costa Rica’s lush wetlands and tropical rainforest.

Drifting, gently on a flat-bottom boat, where you will observe a variety of wildlife along the riverbanks, including exotic birds, monkeys, sloths, alligators and turtles.

The tour offers a lot of opportunities to photograph and learn about the unique flora and fauna of this outstanding habitat.

Arenal to Manuel Antonio: Luxe Escape

After breakfast, you will head to the Pacific Coast, to the astounding destination of Manuel Antonio.

This is a renowned for its breathtaking combination of dense rainforest, pristine white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife.

The centerpiece of the area is Manuel Antonio National Park, a small but incredibly biodiverse protected area where tropical forest meets the ocean. You can hike well-maintained trails that wind through dense jungle, spotting howler monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and iguanas along the way, before emerging onto some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. The park’s calm turquoise waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and simply soaking up the sun.

Tárcoles river crocodile boat tour

Along the way, stop at the Tarcoles River for a crocodile watching boat tour. You will see American crocodiles along the riverbanks.

Whale watching tour

Start your day with an exciting whale watching and wildlife tour along the Pacific coast.

During this guided boat excursion, you’ll have the chance to spot majestic whales

(depending on the season), dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of marine birds. The tour also includes opportunities for snorkeling in calm, crystal-clear waters, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter tropical fish up close.

Self guided visit to Manuel Antonio National Park

In the afternoon, embark on a self-guided visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most famous protected areas. Wander along well-marked trails through lush rainforest where you may encounter sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and a wide array of colorful birds.

The park’s pristine beaches offer the perfect spot to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

Manuel Antonio/San José

After breakfast drive back to San José. Enjoy the changing scenery as you travel across the country.

Lunch en route (not included unless part of your selected meal plan).

Upon arrival in San José, drop off your rental car and take a private transfer to the airport for your departure.