Eco Tour
Ecological tour in Costa Rica: Minimum footprint, maximum adventure!
Costa Rica is a country that, with only 51,100 km2 of land (0.03% of the world's surface area) and 589,000 km2 of territorial sea, is considered one of the 20 most biodiverse countries on the planet. Its geographical position, its two coasts and its mountain system, which offers numerous and varied microclimates, are some of the reasons for this natural wealth, both in terms of species and ecosystems. The more than 500,000 species that are thought to be found in this small territory represent approximately 4% of the total number of species estimated in the world.
In Costa Rica, tourism represents approximately 8.2% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP). It generates a total of 15.5% of the country's jobs, including direct and indirect jobs.
When creating this eco-tour, the most important thing for us was to choose hotels and tours that really fit what we wanted: to have a great experience, without polluting and without affecting our country, so that tourism can continue to exist and support the people who live from the tourism sector.
Why did we choose these hotels?
The hotels we have chosen for this tour are hotels that meet the ecological expectations we are looking for. They ensure that they have the least possible impact on ecosystems and that most of their employees are from the region. This guarantees an increase in employment and production in the region, this is the most important if we are looking for sustainable tourism.
Why did we choose an electric car?
When choosing between a gasoline car, a diesel car or an electric car, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions play a key role in our environmental responsibility. Let's take the example of a gasoline car that travels 583 kilometers (the total km of this tour); in this case, approximately 112.11 kg of CO2 are emitted. A more efficient diesel vehicle emits approximately 104.05 kg of CO2 over the same distance.
The story seems to take an interesting turn when we consider an electric car, which initially records approximately, 1457.5 kg of CO2 over the same distance. However, the key to understanding the true eco-efficiency of electric vehicles lies in the source of electricity generation. If the electricity comes primarily from renewable sources, the carbon footprint of an electric car is significantly reduced, making it a more environmentally friendly option. As we move towards a more sustainable energy infrastructure, electric vehicles are emerging as a promising choice to significantly reduce overall emissions and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
What will be the economic and social impact of this tour?
Partnering with hotels and cultural experiences that employ local people not only contributes to the economic growth of the community, but also enriches the traveler’s experience. By employing local staff, hotels can offer authentic and personalized knowledge of local culture, traditions and attractions. In addition, this approach promotes job creation within the community, strengthens social ties and promotes sustainability by directly reinvesting in local development. Thus, working with hotels that value and employ local residents is not only beneficial for the local economy, but also offers visitors an authentic immersion in the cultural and human wealth of the region.
With this tour, you will contribute directly and indirectly to the support of approximately 265 people from the areas.
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.
Turrialba
Tortuguero
Arenal
Rincón de la Vieja
Tamarindo
This program includes
This program doesn't include
Program itinerary
Welcome at the airport by your local English-speaking guide.
Private transfer to your hotel in San Jose, the capital of the country.
The capital of Costa Rica, 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 today a city that attracts visitors from all over the world, a city full of places of interest, faces and colors 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 best examples of early 20th century urban planning. There are a large number of European-inspired houses and buildings, built with a strong sense of Costa Rican style.
Upon arrival, you will check in at the hotel.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
After breakfast at the hotel, we set off to begin our first adventure in Costa Rica! After picking up your electric car, we start our trip to Turrialba.
Turrialba is a town in the province of Cartago. This picturesque town is located about 50 kilometers east of the capital, San Jose. Turrialba is known for its stunning natural environment, which includes mountainous landscapes, rivers and lush vegetation.
The town is famous for being home to the Turrialba volcano, an active volcano that has attracted the attention of scientists and tourists alike. In addition to its natural beauty, Turrialba has a rich cultural and architectural history, represented by its churches and ancient buildings.
The region is also famous for its agricultural production, especially of products such as coffee, which gives it an important role in Costa Rica’s agricultural economy.
Our first activity begins en route: We will visit the Lankaster Garden, located in Cartago, and internationally known for its collection of orchids. The garden is administered by the University of Costa Rica and owes its name to Charles H. Lankester, a British botanist who dedicated much of his life to the study and conservation of Costa Rica’s orchids.
Stroll along paths that wind through themed gardens, admiring the beauty and diversity of these fascinating plants. In addition to orchids, the Lankester Botanical Garden houses a collection of other tropical plants, bromeliads and ferns, offering visitors an immersive experience of Costa Rica’s lush flora.
After our visit, we will stop for lunch at one of the best and most famous places in the region: La Posada de la Luna.
This magnificent restaurant opened its doors 60 years ago, when Mr. Hernán Luna wanted to open a restaurant that would transmit the warmth of Costa Rican culture and hospitality. Although it is now run by his children and grandchildren, the restaurant has not lost that charming family essence that we love so much.
Upon arrival, you can choose from a wide variety of typical Costa Rican dishes, including our highly recommended cheese tortilla: a handmade natural corn tortilla with a variety of cheeses in the dough. The taste is incomparable.
After this delicious and well-deserved stop, we continue on our way to the hotel.
We will have time to settle in and rest before embarking on our second adventure of the day: Guayabo National Park.
Guayabo National Park is located in the province of Cartago and is home to one of the most important archaeological sites in the country.
Guayabo National Park preserves the ruins of an ancient pre-Columbian city dating from around 1000 BC to 1400 AD. This archaeological site, known as Guayabo, is one of the most important in the country. This archaeological site, known as Guayabo de Turrialba, offers visitors the opportunity to explore paved causeways, aqueduct systems, petroglyphs and other architectural structures that provide a fascinating insight into the life of the indigenous society that inhabited the region.
During your visit to the park, you can hike trails through the lush rainforest, offering panoramic views and the opportunity to observe the region’s varied flora and fauna. Guayabo is famous for its biodiversity, and birds, mammals and butterflies are often spotted in the surrounding natural environment.
At the end of our visit, it is time to arrive at the hotel and rest.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
After breakfast at the hotel, we set off to begin our first adventure in Costa Rica! After picking up your electric car, we start our trip to Turrialba.
Turrialba is a town in the province of Cartago. This picturesque town is located about 50 kilometers east of the capital, San Jose. Turrialba is known for its stunning natural environment, which includes mountainous landscapes, rivers and lush vegetation.
The town is famous for being home to the Turrialba volcano, an active volcano that has attracted the attention of scientists and tourists alike. In addition to its natural beauty, Turrialba has a rich cultural and architectural history, represented by its churches and ancient buildings.
The region is also famous for its agricultural production, especially of products such as coffee, which gives it an important role in Costa Rica’s agricultural economy.
Our first activity begins en route: We will visit the Lankaster Garden, located in Cartago, and internationally known for its collection of orchids. The garden is administered by the University of Costa Rica and owes its name to Charles H. Lankester, a British botanist who dedicated much of his life to the study and conservation of Costa Rica’s orchids.
Stroll along paths that wind through themed gardens, admiring the beauty and diversity of these fascinating plants. In addition to orchids, the Lankester Botanical Garden houses a collection of other tropical plants, bromeliads and ferns, offering visitors an immersive experience of Costa Rica’s lush flora.
After our visit, we will stop for lunch at one of the best and most famous places in the region: La Posada de la Luna.
This magnificent restaurant opened its doors 60 years ago, when Mr. Hernán Luna wanted to open a restaurant that would transmit the warmth of Costa Rican culture and hospitality. Although it is now run by his children and grandchildren, the restaurant has not lost that charming family essence that we love so much.
Upon arrival, you can choose from a wide variety of typical Costa Rican dishes, including our highly recommended cheese tortilla: a handmade natural corn tortilla with a variety of cheeses in the dough. The taste is incomparable.
After this delicious and well-deserved stop, we continue on our way to the hotel.
We will have time to settle in and rest before embarking on our second adventure of the day: Guayabo National Park.
Guayabo National Park is located in the province of Cartago and is home to one of the most important archaeological sites in the country.
Guayabo National Park preserves the ruins of an ancient pre-Columbian city dating from around 1000 BC to 1400 AD. This archaeological site, known as Guayabo, is one of the most important in the country. This archaeological site, known as Guayabo de Turrialba, offers visitors the opportunity to explore paved causeways, aqueduct systems, petroglyphs and other architectural structures that provide a fascinating insight into the life of the indigenous society that inhabited the region.
During your visit to the park, you can hike trails through the lush rainforest, offering panoramic views and the opportunity to observe the region’s varied flora and fauna. Guayabo is famous for its biodiversity, and birds, mammals and butterflies are often spotted in the surrounding natural environment.
At the end of our visit, it is time to arrive at the hotel and rest.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
After breakfast at the hotel, we start the day with a visit to Tortuguero National Park!
In the morning, discovery of Tortuguero National Park, by boat and on foot.
This park is located along the northeast coast, in the flattest and most humid region of the country, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow strip of sand. Its isolation protects it from the ravages of civilization. Monkeys, sloths, iguanas, caimans, turtles and a multitude of colorful tropical birds can be seen in these peaceful channels of 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). No wonder “Tortuguero” comes from the Spanish name for turtles.
Your guide/naturalist will share with you his love and encyclopedic knowledge of the exceptional flora and fauna of Tortuguero. 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 the second adventure today: You will leave again for a short hike along the trails to discover the jungle of this splendid park, unique to this area of the country.
Return to the hotel for lunch.
Our guide will pick you up after lunch for a guided tour of the village of Tortuguero: Located on the lush northeast coast of Costa Rica. We will begin our tour by immersing ourselves in the network of canals that meander through this region, exploring the unique biodiversity that characterizes this tropical paradise.
Our expert guide will give us a glimpse of the varied flora and fauna that inhabit this area, from colorful tropical birds to caimans and monkeys darting through the dense vegetation. The tranquility of the canals offers the perfect opportunity to get close to nature and admire the majesty of this aquatic ecosystem.
We continue our journey to the famous Tortuguero beach, where sea turtles decide to nest. This natural spectacle is a moving and unique experience where you can witness the hatching of life. Our guide will provide you with valuable information about the conservation of these endangered species and the importance of preserving this vital habitat.
The village itself awaits you with its Caribbean charm, where the colorful houses and the hospitality of the locals create a welcoming atmosphere. A visit to the local conservation center will give you an insight into the efforts dedicated to wildlife conservation and environmental education in the region.
After today’s adventure, you will have time to enjoy the lodge and its facilities and, above all, to appreciate the exceptional flora and fauna that surrounds you.
You will also have time to recharge your batteries for tomorrow.
In the evening, you will enjoy a delicious dinner provided by the lodge.
After breakfast, it is time to take the boat to the Caño Blanco or La Pavona pier to begin our journey to La Fortuna and its natural icon.
Located near the majestic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna was created as the main economic center of the Arenal Volcano region after the tragic eruption of the Arenal Volcano in 1968, which destroyed three of the main towns in the region, and is the main entry point to the Arenal region.
On a clear day, the majestic Arenal Volcano dominates the skyline of this quiet town. There are banks and ATMs, as well as several tourist information centers, and the central park is a pleasant place to stroll around and discover local life.
On the way, we will visit Palmito Maria, in Sarapiqui: This plantation is a family business focused on rural tourism, where in addition to maintaining a close relationship between our Costa Rican customs and innovative dishes.
This plantation is a family business focused on rural tourism, in Palmitour maintain a concept of rural tourism, based on agriculture and the preparation of palmito food. palmito food.
During this visit, you will learn about the planting and production processes of the heart of palm. The heart of palm plantations are part of an ecological and sustainable production system, which uses compost as fertilizer, combined with fruit tree plantations that act as fertilizers.
The heart of palm plantations are subject to an ecological and sustainable production system, using compost as a form of fertilizer, combined with fruit tree plantations that act as an ecological barrier and oil palm plantations. The fruit trees act as an ecological barrier and at the same time attract birds and other wildlife.
After this magical experience, we arrive at the hotel to rest and recharge our batteries for the night.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we are off on one of our most adrenaline-filled adventures.
Today we will head to Coope San Juan for a mountain survival excursion: We will embark on our journey to the cooperative, which is located 1 hour from the Arenal region.
As a cooperative that aims to provide travelers with community experiences and lodging, Coope San Juan has found that their community’s income is increasingly coming from tourism rather than agriculture. This has provided families with more income to improve their quality of life. They have also been able to invest more in their agricultural initiatives. This investment has allowed the community to conserve their land and pay off the debts they had incurred on their land.
With the expansion of the tourism industry in Costa Rica, Coope San Juan decided to start a homestay business. This tourism project is managed by the women of the community cooperative.
Embark on an exciting day of learning and challenge in the heart of the mountain wilderness. This survival excursion will immerse you in a natural environment and provide you with the practical skills necessary to face difficult situations and make the most of the available resources.
The local guide will take you into the mountains to teach you some survival techniques using the available resources.
After the survival excursion, it’s time for lunch. But this time, we will cook!
On this occasion, we will have the opportunity to visit the cassava plantations, where we will learn how it is grown, how it is harvested and what is its current price in the market. In addition, the guide will give us more information about cassava.
At the end of the plantation visit, it’s time to put your hands in the bag…. Literally! Today we will prepare “enyucados”, a typical Costa Rican dish based on cassava paste stuffed with minced meat or cheese, it’s fabulous!
After this adrenaline-filled and enlightening visit, it’s time to return to the hotel for some rest and a change of clothes, if we so desire.
After a moment of rest, we head to Paradise Hot Springs. Here, we will have the opportunity to relax our bodies and minds in the naturally hot thermal waters that originate from the Arenal Volcano.
From the moment you arrive, you will be immersed in a relaxing oasis surrounded by lush vegetation, with thermal pools of different temperatures offering a unique wellness experience. Sunbathe in the warm waters while admiring the breathtaking views of the volcano and the surrounding nature. You can admire the illuminated hot springs under a starry sky, creating a magical and relaxing atmosphere.
In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore the local biodiversity on short walks before or after your hot spring experience. In short, your visit to the Arenal Volcano hot springs will be a rejuvenating getaway that combines the serenity of the surroundings with the pleasure of immersing yourself in purifying hot springs.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we are off on one of our most adrenaline-filled adventures.
Today we will head to Coope San Juan for a mountain survival excursion: We will embark on our journey to the cooperative, which is located 1 hour from the Arenal region.
As a cooperative that aims to provide travelers with community experiences and lodging, Coope San Juan has found that their community’s income is increasingly coming from tourism rather than agriculture. This has provided families with more income to improve their quality of life. They have also been able to invest more in their agricultural initiatives. This investment has allowed the community to conserve their land and pay off the debts they had incurred on their land.
With the expansion of the tourism industry in Costa Rica, Coope San Juan decided to start a homestay business. This tourism project is managed by the women of the community cooperative.
Embark on an exciting day of learning and challenge in the heart of the mountain wilderness. This survival excursion will immerse you in a natural environment and provide you with the practical skills necessary to face difficult situations and make the most of the available resources.
The local guide will take you into the mountains to teach you some survival techniques using the available resources.
After the survival excursion, it’s time for lunch. But this time, we will cook!
On this occasion, we will have the opportunity to visit the cassava plantations, where we will learn how it is grown, how it is harvested and what is its current price in the market. In addition, the guide will give us more information about cassava.
At the end of the plantation visit, it’s time to put your hands in the bag…. Literally! Today we will prepare “enyucados”, a typical Costa Rican dish based on cassava paste stuffed with minced meat or cheese, it’s fabulous!
After this adrenaline-filled and enlightening visit, it’s time to return to the hotel for some rest and a change of clothes, if we so desire.
After a moment of rest, we head to Paradise Hot Springs. Here, we will have the opportunity to relax our bodies and minds in the naturally hot thermal waters that originate from the Arenal Volcano.
From the moment you arrive, you will be immersed in a relaxing oasis surrounded by lush vegetation, with thermal pools of different temperatures offering a unique wellness experience. Sunbathe in the warm waters while admiring the breathtaking views of the volcano and the surrounding nature. You can admire the illuminated hot springs under a starry sky, creating a magical and relaxing atmosphere.
In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore the local biodiversity on short walks before or after your hot spring experience. In short, your visit to the Arenal Volcano hot springs will be a rejuvenating getaway that combines the serenity of the surroundings with the pleasure of immersing yourself in purifying hot springs.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
Our day starts early: After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure at 8:30 am with the Nature Day Pass.
Enjoy the best nature excursion in Guanacaste. Observe the breathtaking nature and wildlife, the incredible volcanic activity and scenic beauty of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, and return home with amazing vacation memories after this combined excursion at Hacienda Guachipelin Hotel.
Explore the incredible Las Pailas trail in Rincon de la Vieja National Park and discover unique wildlife. Next, take a stroll to the Oropendola waterfall and take a dip in its exceptionally blue pool. Afterwards, get ready to enjoy the hot springs and relaxing volcanic mud baths. Finally, enjoy lunch at the hotel’s La Hacienda restaurant, where a buffet full of different options awaits you.
After lunch, we will have time to rest before heading to Rincon de la Vieja National Park: As you enter this park, you will witness a unique fusion of geothermal phenomena, tropical rainforests and an amazing variety of flora and fauna. Accompanied by expert guides, you will explore intricate trails that wind through lush rainforests, revealing an abundance of unique flora and fauna.
As you hike the well-maintained trails, you will discover ever-changing landscapes, from dense evergreen forests to volcanic mineral fields and fumaroles emanating from the earth.
The majestic presence of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano will become evident as you proceed, providing an impressive backdrop to your adventure. The park is also home to a rich diversity of flora, including colorful orchids and giant ferns that grow in harmony with the surrounding nature. In addition, activities such as zip-lining and rappelling add a thrilling touch to your visit.
Fumes of boiling mud, boiling water and steam resonate in the atmosphere. You can witness all this volcanic activity and visit a dry forest, a rain forest, a very humid forest and a cloud forest in just two hours.
The park has a network of trails ranging from 100% natural trails to slightly modified trails and sections adapted to allow accessibility for people with special mobility needs. All trails offer good opportunities for bird, mammal and reptile sightings.
After this visit to the impressive Rincón de la Vieja Park, we will return to the hotel to rest.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
Our day starts early: After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our adventure at 8:30 am with the Nature Day Pass.
Enjoy the best nature excursion in Guanacaste. Observe the breathtaking nature and wildlife, the incredible volcanic activity and scenic beauty of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, and return home with amazing vacation memories after this combined excursion at Hacienda Guachipelin Hotel.
Explore the incredible Las Pailas trail in Rincon de la Vieja National Park and discover unique wildlife. Next, take a stroll to the Oropendola waterfall and take a dip in its exceptionally blue pool. Afterwards, get ready to enjoy the hot springs and relaxing volcanic mud baths. Finally, enjoy lunch at the hotel’s La Hacienda restaurant, where a buffet full of different options awaits you.
After lunch, we will have time to rest before heading to Rincon de la Vieja National Park: As you enter this park, you will witness a unique fusion of geothermal phenomena, tropical rainforests and an amazing variety of flora and fauna. Accompanied by expert guides, you will explore intricate trails that wind through lush rainforests, revealing an abundance of unique flora and fauna.
As you hike the well-maintained trails, you will discover ever-changing landscapes, from dense evergreen forests to volcanic mineral fields and fumaroles emanating from the earth.
The majestic presence of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano will become evident as you proceed, providing an impressive backdrop to your adventure. The park is also home to a rich diversity of flora, including colorful orchids and giant ferns that grow in harmony with the surrounding nature. In addition, activities such as zip-lining and rappelling add a thrilling touch to your visit.
Fumes of boiling mud, boiling water and steam resonate in the atmosphere. You can witness all this volcanic activity and visit a dry forest, a rain forest, a very humid forest and a cloud forest in just two hours.
The park has a network of trails ranging from 100% natural trails to slightly modified trails and sections adapted to allow accessibility for people with special mobility needs. All trails offer good opportunities for bird, mammal and reptile sightings.
After this visit to the impressive Rincón de la Vieja Park, we will return to the hotel to rest.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the small village of Santa Cruz: Guaitil is a small town on the outskirts of Santa Cruz, the main center of Costa Rican folklore.
In this village, the community maintains the tradition of transforming clay into pottery; the whole process is done by hand.
Here you can make your own clay pots and paint them. The pottery is decorated with the natural colors of the earth pigments, preserving the stains of the earth and maintaining the artisanal process of the pre-Columbian art of the Chorotegas.
In this cultural experience, you will learn about the process of making clay pots and ceramics, as well as have the opportunity to take a course in the preparation of the famous and traditional shells, tamales and homemade bread.
Finally, for lunch you will taste the Gallina achiotada, a traditional Costa Rican dish distinguished by its vibrant flavor and distinctive color. This preparation uses achiote, a spice derived from the red seeds of the annatto tree, which gives it not only a distinctive orange hue, but also a unique aroma and flavor. Achiote chicken is cooked slowly so that the flavors blend and the meat absorbs the spices. Garlic, onions, chili peppers and various aromatic herbs can be added, increasing the complexity of the flavors. This dish is often served with rice and beans, making it a delicious and comforting combination.
After this rich cultural activity, it is time to return to the hotel to rest.
Full board: Dinner at the hotel
Half board: Dinner not included
After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for San José, the capital of the country.
Upon arrival, you will take a self-guided tour of the capital, visiting various places that are synonymous with culture.
After this tour of San Jose, you will have lunch at El Jardin restaurant (full board), Orotina, where you can choose from a variety of buffet options.
