Costa Rica is all about nature and you'll be able to feel it in the purity of the air the moment you land in this tropical country. A representative will meet you at the airport to help load your luggage into the vehicle and transfer you to your hotel. During the short drive to your hotel, you'll receive a brief introduction to Costa Rica and some recommendations for your trip. The guide will explain your itinerary in detail once you are settled. Tonight enjoy the incredible food and cultural experiences of the lively city of San Jose.

Overnight in San Jose
Meals included: None

The day begins early today. A representative will pick you up and take you to the area of Siquirres on the Caribbean slopes. On the way, you'll have the opportunity to admire the beautiful Braulio Carrillo National Park and then Guapiles with it's many banana plantations.

Once you arrive in Siquirres, a delicious breakfast will be waiting for you. Here, you'll taste the famous “Gallo Pinto,” truly the best breakfast for a day full of activity! After breakfast, you'll get ready to jump into the river. Your expert guides will proceed with the safety talk and technical instructions, and you'll have the chance to practice paddling on calm water. From there you'll explore the stunning river rapids and enjoy the majestic scenery that surrounds you. You'll pass by beautiful waterfalls and experience exhilarating rapids such as the Upper and Lower Huacas, Cimarron, and Dos Montañas. Once half of the river is conquered, you'll have lunch on the banks of the river to recharge your energy for the last part of your journey.

After the ride you'll continue traveling northwest to the northern plains of the country, where the stunning Arenal Volcano will welcome you. The Arenal Volcano was discovered after the volcanic explosion in July 1968 unleashed its full force. You'll arrive by late afternoon to the hotel in Arenal and the rest of the day will be free to rest and enjoy the hotel facilities. Please note, if you are traveling with a guest between the ages of 8-11 years old, you'll raft the Reventazon River (class II-III) instead of the Pacuare River.

Rafting time: 4 hours I Rafting distance: 19 miles
Overnight in the area surrounding the Arenal Volcano
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

Enjoy a leisurely morning, visiting the town of La Fortuna or relaxing at your hotel. Later you'll take a nature walk in the Arenal Volcano National Park where an expert guide will explain interesting facts about the volcano and its history. There are many chances to see wildlife on the hike and you'll get the opportunity to experience the volcano activity first-hand. The trail is easy and your guide will help point out wildlife as you walk. Finally, head to the relaxing thermal waters near the volcano where you can swim and relax in this naturally heated hot spring. Dinner is included at the hot springs restaurant so you can enjoy more time soaking and relaxing.

Hiking time: 2.5 hours (distance varies depending on trail)
Overnight in the area surrounding the Arenal Volcano
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

Today you'll travel to the inspiring cloud forest. Take a Jeep and boat across the Arenal Lake to get to Monteverde. You can enjoy spectacular views of the volcano and find different species of birds while you navigate through the tranquil lake. Monteverde has one of the most ecologically important cloud forests found in the world. There are just a few of these forests left and it's very important to conserve and protect the unique plants and animals found here.

You'll have the opportunity to explore the forest and meet the friendly locals who enjoy living in harmony with Mother Nature. In the mid-afternoon you'll enjoy a gentle horseback ride through the cloud forest. The ride begins on a real coffee plantation where you'll learn why this product is so important for the economy and culture of Costa Rica. This is a truly unique way to enjoy spectacular views of the Gulf of Nicoya.

Horseback riding time: 2 hours I Horseback riding distance: 6.2 miles
Overnight in Monteverde
Meals included: Breakfast

Today is full of adventure! You'll start by taking a guided nature walk over hanging bridges. This new way to see the forest will give you a unique perspective while protecting the fragile wildlife. Your guide will help you understand the history and ecology of the area, diving into the unique flora and fauna that inhabits this special place.

After this walking tour, enjoy one of the most popular activities in Costa Rica, the zip-line or "canopy tour" as it is called locally. Zip-line between trees and mountains while wearing a special harness designed to keep you safe and secure. While you “fly” through the dense cloud forest you can see and feel all the natural activity that is bustling within the treetops. Don’t forget your camera so you can capture the amazing views of the cloud forest!

Zip-lining tour: 2 hours
Overnight in Monteverde
Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll be picked up and transferred back to the city of San Jose for your last night in the country. The afternoon is free for you to spend as you wish. You can explore the city, visit museums or historical buildings, or visit the central avenue where you can interact with locals and learn a little more about their way of life.

Overnight in San Jose
Meals included: Breakfast

Say good-bye to Costa Rica and its beautiful people. A driver will pick you up at the hotel and take you straight to the airport, located just 15 minutes from the hotel. In Costa Rica you must be at the airport three hours before your departure time.

Meals included: Breakfast