Pure Costa Rica

The adventure of a lifetime starts here! Once you've landed at the airport, we'll transfer you to the hotel. Enjoy some chill time before meeting up as a group for the first time in the evening.

Get to know the iconic sites of San José on our walking tour with a local guide this morning, then say goodbye to the capital as we make our way to the hidden gem of Sarapiquí, famed for its stunning emerald scenery and wildlife biodiversity. Enjoy a stop at the Pierella Ecological Garden along the way, where you can observe the colourful birds, butterflies, frogs and maybe even your first sloth!

Nothing screams adventure like white-water rafting! Kickstart this morning with this adrenaline rush of an activity, riding down the river surrounded by jungle views. Slow down this afternoon by learning how tiny leaf-cutter ants are the lifeblood of Costa Rica's famous rainforests. Discover more wildlife on our night safari walk, keeping our eyes peeled for sleepy and nocturnal animals hiding in the treetops.

It's the people you meet who make travelling so magical. So this morning, we'll visit a local farm outside of La Fortuna and meet the family who have lived here for generations. Enjoy one of the most delicious lunches of your life, featuring harvested fruits and vegetables, plus a cup of home-grown coffee. Then this afternoon is all yours to chill out and explore La Fortuna as you like.

Ready for your next adventure? This morning, we're hiking across La Fortuna's famous hanging bridges. There's no better way to experience Costa Rica's wildlife than up in the air, after all! Keep your eyes peeled for all kinds of creatures, plus if we get lucky, a view of Arenal Volcano. Afterwards, we'll soak in the steamy, mineral-rich waters of the natural hot springs. Can life get any better than this?

La Fortuna is a tropical paradise, so today we'll explore an incredible waterfall hidden within its rainforest. Enjoy a free afternoon to keep the adrenaline rolling with some optional activities like ziplining or bungee jumping, or kick back by the poolside for some chilled time.

After arriving in Samara, today is all yours to explore the wide stretches of white sand brushing against the sapphire ocean. Or how about some beach volleyball?

Learn to surf like a pro this morning, then experience the pure magic that the Guanacaste Province has to offer. Between the swaying palm trees, the sunkissed sand, the bright blue skies and calm waters, the Guanacaste Province is a fantasy come to life. Later, we'll take part in a salsa class!

Today's completely free for you to discover Samara at your own pace. Samara is made for lazy beach days, yet this gorgeous destination has so much more to offer beyond that. If you're in the mood for relaxation, then a zen yoga class could be your vibe. For something more active, a surfing class or sea kayaking with snorkelling included is an incredible choice. Whatever you get up to, there's no denying that the views here are the definition of paradise.

Enjoy one final morning unwinding on Samara's heavenly stretches on sand, before we head south for Esterillos after lunch. We'll take a scenic drive as part of our journey, with a sunset view along the way.

Manuel Antonio is one of those rare places that offers it all to travellers, from alluring rainforests to glistening beaches and a beckoning ocean. It's practically made for days out hiking, snorkelling, or simply relaxing and taking in the mini world around you. Now's your chance to see howler monkeys and sloths hanging in the treetops or spot monkeys on the sand, as we search for wildlife. Today's an adventure you'll never forget!

Before arriving in San José, we will stop off for a Cacao making class, where we will discover how chocolate is created from bean to bar. Then get ready for some farewell drinks tonight.

And just like that, our amazing time together in Costa Rica has come to an end. Breakfast is included, and travellers are welcome to depart at any time. For any assistance in arranging return airport transfers or onward travel, your trip leader will be happy to help.

If you are interested in visiting Costa Rica and a few more destinations, then check out the 30-day and 40-day options for our Best of Central America and Epic Central America trips!