Colors of Costa Rica

"Colors of Costa Rica" is an exciting tour that immerses you in the rich natural and cultural diversity of this beautiful Central American country. Start your adventure in the bustling capital, San José, where you can explore the charming historic center, visit the National Museum, and enjoy authentic local cuisine in the markets and restaurants.

From San José, the journey continues to the Caribbean coast, and more specifically to Tortuguero, known as one of the main nesting sites for sea turtles. You will have the unique opportunity to observe the arrival of the turtles on the beach, a fascinating experience. In addition, you will be able to explore the navigable canals surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.

The next stop is the Arenal region, home to the mighty Arenal Volcano. Soak in the soothing hot springs, hike through the jungle to discover the diversity of flora and fauna, and admire the breathtaking views of the volcano that dominates the landscape.

Continuing your journey, you will arrive at Monteverde, a jewel located in the mountains. Explore the famous cloud forest, home to an incredible variety of bird and plant species. Venture onto the hanging bridges to enjoy the unique sensation of walking through the treetops.

End your experience in Manuel Antonio, located on the Pacific coast. This national park combines paradisiacal beaches and tropical forest. Hiking Trails

We have selected
5 destinations

These are the main destinations that are at the top of our list of activities and that we will visit throughout the trip.

This program includes

Breakfast
Airport/hotel/airport transfers, on arrival and departure
San Jose Airport Reception
Excursions and visits mentioned in the program
Hotel taxes and services
Accompanying guide, in your language
Transportation

This program doesn't include

International flights
The entrance fee to national parks, to be paid on site in cash in Dollars
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses and excursions
Assistance and repatriation insurance
Meals mentioned are free
Anything not mentioned in “THIS PROGRAM INCLUDES”

Program itinerary

Welcome at the airport by your local English-speaking guide.

Private transfer to your hotel in San José, the country’s capital.

Costa Rica’s capital, San José, is located in the Central Valley. It is a vast plain guarded by majestic volcanoes and green hills, confirming the natural wealth that exists throughout the country.

Founded in the first half of the 18th century, San José is now a city that attracts visitors from all over the world, a city full of places of interest, faces and colours that reflect the history of a people.

Its architecture is as varied as the people who walk its streets. The northern part of the city is home to some of the finest examples of early 20th-century town planning. There are a large number of European-inspired houses and buildings, built with a strong sense of Costa Rican style.

After your arrival, you can settle in to your hotel.

We encourage you to dine in a local restaurant, as there are several options to suit all tastes! (Not included)

After breakfast at the hotel, departure for the Caribbean Coast and its famous equatorial zone of Tortuguero also known as ¨Amazone tica¨ with its hot and humid climate. In the meantime, we will cross the first park created in Costa Rica, Braulio Carillo, which contains the largest primary forest near the Central Valley, before your transfer by boat.

Board boats at Caño Blanco or La Pavona (depending on the water level), to sail up the main channel to Tortuguero Village to reach your lodge. It takes about 01h30 to sail through the tropical flora and fauna before we arrive.

After settling in, you can enjoy one of the hotel’s delicious and varied dishes for lunch.

The guide will pick you up and take you on a tour of the hotel’s trails, where you can see many of the area’s animals, such as sloths, spiders, birds such as owls and some of the area’s typical birds. You will also be able to see a huge number of magnificent plants and flowers.

After a day of sightseeing and exploring, it’s time to head back to the hotel and have dinner to recharge our batteries for tomorrow’s adventures!

After breakfast at the hotel, we start the day with a visit to Tortuguero National Park!

 Morning discovery of Tortuguero National Park, by boat and on foot

This park is located along the north-east coast, in the flattest and wettest region of the country, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow strip of sand. Its isolation protects it from the ravages of civilisation. Monkeys, sloths, iguanas, caimans, turtles and a multitude of colourful tropical birds can be spotted along these peaceful canals, with their calm waters bordered by forest. The beaches of Tortuguero are the most important nesting site for green turtles in the Western Caribbean (July to October). So it’s hardly surprising that ‘Tortuguero’ is derived from the Spanish name for turtles.

Your guide/naturalist will share with you his love and encyclopaedic knowledge of Tortuguero’s exceptional flora and fauna. This is a unique opportunity to observe the natural habitat of many species of birds, butterflies, sloths, monkeys and even crocodiles.

Return to the lodge to begin today’s second adventure: you will once again set off on a short hike along marked trails to discover the jungle of this splendid park, unique in this part of the country.

Return to the lodge for lunch.

After recovering your energy, it’s time for a guided tour of the village of Tortuguero!

The guide will pick you up after lunch for a guided tour of the village of Tortuguero: located on the lush north-eastern coast of Costa Rica. We’ll begin our tour by immersing ourselves in the network of canals that wind through this region, exploring the unique biodiversity that characterises this tropical paradise.

Our expert guide will give us an insight into the varied flora and fauna that inhabit this area, from colourful tropical birds to the caimans and monkeys that weave their way through the dense vegetation. The tranquillity of the canals provides the perfect opportunity to get close to nature and admire the majesty of this aquatic ecosystem.

We’ll continue our journey to the famous beach of Tortuguero, where sea turtles choose to nest. This natural spectacle is a moving and unique experience where you can witness the hatching of life. Our guide will provide valuable information on the conservation of these threatened species and the importance of preserving this vital habitat.

The village itself awaits you with its Caribbean charm, where the colourful houses and hospitality of the locals create a welcoming atmosphere. A visit to the local conservation centre will give us an insight into the efforts devoted to wildlife preservation and environmental education in the region.

We finish our visit by immersing ourselves in the surrounding lush rainforest, exploring the trails.

After visiting the village of Tortuguero, our guide will take you to the fascinating Turtle Museum.

Visit to the Turtle Museum (Pay on site $2): This is a natural museum where you can learn first-hand about the different species of turtle that live in the different regions of Costa Rica and arrive throughout the year. It’s a place where you can remember that this is an endangered species, so it’s important to take remarkable care of it.

This not-for-profit organisation is the oldest and most recognised sea turtle protection association in the world. Here you can see how the turtles are counted, the work of the volunteers and a short video to give visitors a better idea of how the turtles lay their eggs.

After today’s adventure, you’ll have time to enjoy the lodge and its facilities, and above all to appreciate the exceptional flora and fauna that surrounds you.

You’ll also have time to recharge your batteries for tomorrow!

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner hosted by the hotel.

After breakfast, it’s time to take the boat to the Caño Blanco or La Pavona pier to begin our journey to La Fortuna and its natural icon.

Situated close to the majestic Arenal volcano, La Fortuna was created as the main economic centre of the Arenal region following the tragic 1968 eruption of the Arenal volcano, which destroyed three of the region’s main villages, and is the main point of entry to the Arenal region. On a clear day, the majestic Arenal volcano dominates the skyline of this peaceful town. There are banks and ATMs, as well as a number of tourist information centres, and the central park is a pleasant place to stroll and discover local life.

Did you know that the banana is one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world?

Today, en route, we’ll have the opportunity to take a cultural tour of an organic banana plantation. This tour is ideal if you’re passionate about culture and history.

We’ll learn interesting facts about the banana, such as its origins in Costa Rica, during an educational talk. What’s more, we’ll have the chance to walk inside the farm to discover all the processes involved in the world’s largest herbaceous plant. And don’t think the adventure stops there! At the end of the visit, you’ll enjoy an exquisite tasting of typical Costa Rican dishes, which you’ll prepare yourself.

After this great adventure, you’ll continue on your way to your hotel in La Fortuna, Arenal.

After your arrival, you can settle in and relax at the hotel.

 Full board: Dinner at the hotel

Half board: Dinner not included

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, today’s adventure takes us to Park 1968:

 Park 1968 in La Fortuna, Arenal, is a true haven of peace nestled in the heart of Costa Rica’s lush nature. This self-guided tour invites you to explore its winding paths and discover the incredible diversity of its flora and fauna.

As you stroll along, you’ll spot an impressive variety of animal species, including howler monkeys, peaceful sloths and a multitude of brightly-coloured birds. Photography enthusiasts will be delighted by the unique opportunities to capture the natural beauty of this enchanting place.

The park’s panoramic viewpoints offer spectacular views of the Arenal volcano and its surroundings, creating breathtaking backdrops. You can also visit the butterfly garden, where colourful species twirl around you in a magical display.

As you explore Park 1968, you’ll be plunged into the heart of Costa Rican nature, with its lush rainforest and striking volcanic landscapes. A self-guided tour that promises an immersive and unforgettable experience for all nature and adventure lovers.

After this activity, it’s time for lunch at the Qué Rico restaurant, which offers several options for different tastes and a beautiful view of the Arenal volcano.

After the activity, you’ll return to the hotel for a little rest before heading off at the end of the day to Paradise Hot Springs. Comprising four thermal pools with different temperatures, the coolest being 91º F (32 C) and the hottest 105º F (41 C), one of the pools has a waterfall so you can enjoy the water to relax. The restaurant retains its colonial architecture and family atmosphere.

Full board: Dinner at the hotel

Half Board: Dinner at Paradise Hot Springs

After breakfast at the hotel, we’re ready for our next adventure: Monteverde!

Monteverde, a treasure of Costa Rica’s highlands, offers a unique experience that combines the majesty of nature with the thrill of adventure. This destination, located in the Cordillera de Tilarán, is famous for its Biological Reserve and the Monteverde Cloud Forest, which allow visitors to immerse themselves in a magical, living forest environment.

The heart of Monteverde is its cloud forest, where mist mingles with trees and orchids to create a mystical and enchanting atmosphere. Here, suspension bridges offer panoramic views, allowing you to walk between the treetops and observe the unique biodiversity that inhabits the heights.

For adrenalin-seekers, Monteverde offers thrilling experiences in the canopy. Glide through the treetops on thrilling zip-lines and experience the thrill of being suspended in mid-air while enjoying the lush landscape from a unique vantage point.

Birdwatchers will find Monteverde a veritable paradise, as the region is home to a wide variety of species, including the famous resplendent quetzal. As you explore the winding trails, you’re likely to encounter a wide variety of wildlife, from colourful frogs to exquisite butterflies.

The charming village of Santa Elena, near Monteverde, offers a vibrant community with welcoming cafés, craft shops and restaurants serving local specialities.

En route, we’ll take a self-guided tour of the Curi-Cancha Reserve: a natural gem nestled in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest. This experience is an enriching journey through the biodiversity and beauty of the rainforest.

We begin our visit on the reserve’s well-maintained paths, where you can get to know the flora and fauna that surround us. With every step, we’ll discover towering trees, exotic plants and the constant murmur of the wildlife that inhabits this ecosystem.

One of the highlights of the visit is the bird watching. From hummingbirds to majestic quetzals, each bird will captivate us with its presence. As we progress, we’ll reach strategic viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the jungle and, on a clear day, the surrounding mountains.

The Curi Cancha reserve is also home to a wide variety of wildlife. With the guide’s help, we may be lucky enough to spot playful monkeys, colourful frogs or even the elusive sloth resting between the high branches.

After visiting this magnificent reserve, we’ll stop again along the way for lunch at one of the best restaurants in the area: Restaurant Mar y Tierra, a restaurant that celebrates the perfect fusion between the freshness of the ocean and the quality of the meats. You’ll find exquisite choices ranging from succulent cuts of meat to delicious creations based on fresh fish. A feast for lovers of sea and land flavours in a pleasant and elegant atmosphere.

Arrival at the hotel, where you can settle in and relax.

Full board: Dinner at the hotel

Half board: Dinner not included

After breakfast today, we’re off to our next destination: Manuel Antonio, on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, and its famous park, listed as the first most visited park in the country.

Manuel Antonio National Park is a natural conservation area covering 1,983 hectares of land and 55,000 hectares of sea. The beauty of its clear sandy beaches and emerald waters is one of the region’s greatest attractions. According to Forbes (2012), Manuel Antonio is the eighth most beautiful beach in the world.

The park is nestled in a patch of tropical rainforest where you can easily spot a large number of wildlife species. The park is home to 329 species of birds, 109 species of mammals, a variety of marine fauna and 254 species of flora, including howler and white-faced monkeys, sloths, deer and coatis, numerous species of birds and the squirrel monkey (Saimiri oerstedii citrinellus), endemic to Manuel Antonio. The marine fauna is just as surprising: moray eels, angelfish, sea urchins and starfish are just some of the representatives of this protected area.

The park also protects 12 islands that are refuges for several species of seabird and boasts some excellent beaches: Espadilla Sur, Manuel Antonio, Punta Catedral and Puerto Escondido.

On the way, we’ll stop off at the Tarcoles bridge to watch the crocodiles from the ferry and enjoy a typical lunch at the Doka Tarcoles restaurant before continuing on to Quepos- Manuel Antonio.

On arrival at the hotel, you’ll have time to rest and settle in to recover your energy for our next adventure!

Full board: Dinner at the hotel

Half board: Dinner not included

After breakfast at the hotel, visit Manuel Antonio Park: the park concentrates great biodiversity through jungle trails, revealing secrets about the rich flora and fauna of this tropical paradise.

Passports are required for this visit, as it is a National Park.

The tour begins at the park entrance, where the whisper of the jungle and the promise of adventure envelop you. We’ll walk along shady paths, exploring the dense vegetation that is home to playful monkeys, relaxed sloths and an amazing variety of tropical birds. We’ll arrive at the white sandy beaches of Manuel Antonio, where the waves of the Pacific caress the shoreline.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy strategic vantage points that offer panoramic views of the ocean and neighbouring islands, giving us the chance to spot playful dolphins and majestic whales, depending on the season. The highlight will be exploring the summit of Punta Catedral, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and surrounding jungle.

After visiting Manuel Antonio National Park, we’ll have lunch at Soda Sánchez, a typical restaurant in the area, giving us a chance to get to know our surroundings and culture even better.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. Enjoy the sunset from Quepos beach, close to the park entrance.

Full board: Dinner at the hotel

Half board: Dinner not included

After breakfast, take advantage of this final morning to visit the Quepos marina before setting off again for our final destination. On the way, we recommend a stopover in Orotina at the El Jardín restaurant, which offers a magnificent buffet.

Having satisfied our appetites, we head back to the airport, taking with us memories of the cultural and natural riches we have come to know during our stay in Costa Rica. The incomparable beaches, volcanoes and forests are waiting for you to return, but above all the people!   With every step, we bid farewell to Costa Rica with the promise of returning, carrying in our hearts the natural beauty and vibrant flavours of this corner of the world.

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