Your tailor-made holiday will be as unique as you are. These itineraries are just a starting point – a bit of inspiration to show what’s possible. Your own trip all starts with a conversation with one of our Costa Rica experts, who’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and design the perfect Costa Rica holiday to match.
This classic Costa Rica journey is a brilliant introduction to the country’s most iconic highlights – we’re talking wildlife, volcanoes, cloud forest and coast, all rolled into one easy-going adventure. It’s a great mix of soft adventure, natural beauty, with plenty of time built in to simply unwind.
Start in Tortuguero, where a network of jungle waterways is your first chance to spot monkeys, sloths and tropical birds as you drift through the flooded rainforest by boat. From there, you’ll head to Arenal, one of Costa Rica’s most famous spots, where you can hike through volcanic landscapes, unwind in natural hot springs, and fly through the treetops on a family-friendly zip line. Next, travel into the misty hills of Monteverde, home to hanging bridges, hummingbirds and the wildlife-packed cloud forest. You’ll finish your trip on the Pacific coast, where golden beaches and warm seas are the perfect spot for a well-earned dose of rest and relaxation. (While you’re lazing, howler monkeys will most likely be swinging through the trees and toucans flying ahead, of course.)
Whether it’s your first time in Costa Rica or you’re coming back for more, this route is packed with variety, adventure and laid-back charm – it’s our perfect all-rounder.
Here's a summary of what you might get up to day-to-day on this Costa Rica holiday. As always, this is just an idea. Every single day of your holiday will be tailored to suit you.
Today, you’ll land in San José, Costa Rica’s lively capital and your gateway to this biodiverse paradise. Once you’re safely off the plane, you’ll be met by our friendly team on the ground and transferred to your hotel to unwind after your long flight. If you have the time (and the energy), take a stroll through San José’s historic neighbourhoods, or enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant – there’s no shortage of delicious Costa Rican cuisine to sample!
Your adventure truly begins this morning as you leave the city behind, travelling by road and boat into the heart of Tortuguero National Park. This remote and wildlife-rich region, often called the ‘Amazon of Costa Rica’, is only accessible by water. Along the way, stop for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast before arriving at your jungle lodge in time for lunch. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of Tortuguero village, where you’ll learn about the area’s conservation efforts and enjoy an authentic insight into day-to-day life.
Wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys and exotic birds this morning, before heading into the thick rainforest on a guided nature walk. Your expert guide will help you spot colourful toucans, sloths, and tiny poison dart frogs as you weave through the dense jungle. Later, take a boat safari through the park’s winding canals, where you might just be lucky enough to encounter caimans, river otters, and even manatees. This is Costa Rica at its most wild and untouched.
This morning, you’ll leave Tortuguero by boat, gliding through its peaceful waterways one last time. After a stop for lunch, continue by road to Arenal, home to one of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes and a serious amount of adventure. The drive takes you through lush countryside and rolling hills, with the imposing Arenal Volcano coming into view as you approach your next hotel.
Start your day with a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, where well-marked trails will lead you through lava fields and dense rainforest, offering spectacular views of the volcano’s near-perfect cone. Keep an eye out for howler monkeys, coatis, and vibrant birdlife along the way. This afternoon, unwind at one of Arenal’s natural hot springs, where you can soak in geothermal pools surrounded by tropical gardens – the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.
Get ready for an adrenaline-fuelled morning as you visit one of Costa Rica’s top cloud forest adventure centres. Try your hand at ziplining, soaring through the misty treetops with incredible views over the rainforest. If you prefer a slower pace, take a stroll along the canopy walkways, where hanging bridges allow access to the upper levels of the cloud forest, offering a different perspective on this incredible ecosystem.
Today, take a scenic drive from Arenal to Monteverde, winding your way through mountains, coffee plantations, and lush valleys. Monteverde is famous for its high-altitude cloud forests and is home to a staggering array of wildlife. This evening, you’ll embark on a guided night tour in the Monteverde Reserve, a chance to spot nocturnal creatures such as armadillos, tree frogs, tarantulas and elusive ocelots as they come to life after dark.
Spend the morning exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve with your brilliant and knowledgeable guide, who will help you spot rare wildlife – maybe even the resplendent quetzal, one of the most beautiful birds in Central America. Next up, head to the canopy walkways for another chance to observe Costa Rica’s lush forests from above. If you missed out on ziplining in Arenal, you have another opportunity to give it a go here – Monteverde is home to some of the longest and highest ziplines in the country!
After days of adventure, it’s time to unwind on Costa Rica’s stunning Northern Pacific coast. Whether you’re staying near Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, or Santa Teresa, you’ll have plenty of time to kick back on golden beaches, swim in warm waters, and enjoy the laid-back beach town atmosphere. If you’re feeling active, you can go horse riding along the shore, take a surf lesson, or visit a nearby national park to see more of Costa Rica’s legendary wildlife.
After one last morning by the beach, it’s time to head to the airport for your flight back to the UK. From jungle adventures and volcanic landscapes to misty cloud forests and golden beaches, this trip offers a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation – a true Pura Vida experience.
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Dawn and Louise are dedicated to all things Costa Rica and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.
Costa Rica’s wildlife, landscapes and sense of adventure are what keep Dawn coming back. With a conservation-focused background and years of hands-on travel experience, she’s packed with ideas for making every trip feel special.
Our Lou’s been exploring Latin America for nearly 20 years, and Costa Rica is a firm favourite. She’s drawn to its wildlife, volcanoes and cloud forests – and knows how to shape a trip full of adventure that takes in all the best bits.
Speak to one of our travel specialists today.
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