Natural Splendours of Costa Rica

Costa Rica: Rainforests, Volcanoes & Wildlife

Overview

Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is one of the most ecologically rich countries on the planet. This journey explores the country’s diverse habitats—including volcanoes, lakes, cloud forests, rainforests, and winding canals—while offering a chance to see its extraordinary wildlife up close.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to San José

• Depart from London (regional connections available) to San José with British Airways
• Transfer to the Crowne Plaza Corobici Hotel for a 2-night stay
  Meals: None

Day 2: Volcano Tour

• Morning visit to either Poas Volcano or Irazú Volcano
  • Enjoy views of the crater and surrounding landscapes
• Afternoon at leisure to explore the capital
  Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Journey to Tortuguero

• Travel by overland transfer to Caño Blanco on the Caribbean coast
• Cruise through lush canals and backwaters to Tortuguero
  • Spot monkeys, sloths, birds, and more
• 2-night stay at Mawamba Lodge (or similar)
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Exploring Tortuguero

• Full day of guided local excursions by boat and on foot
• From July to September, optional turtle nesting tour in the evening
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: To Arenal via La Selva Biological Station

• Return to Caño Blanco by boat
• Drive to Arenal, stopping at La Selva Biological Station
  • Learn about rainforest conservation and research
  • Short guided walk in the protected reserve
• 2-night stay at Arenal Paraiso, with views of Arenal Volcano
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Caño Negro Wetlands

• Full-day guided tour to Caño Negro, a vital wetland habitat teeming with birdlife and other fauna
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Lake Arenal • Monteverde

• Shared boat transfer across Lake Arenal, with stunning views
• Continue to Monteverde and stay 2 nights at Fonda Vela Hotel
• Afternoon visit to:
  • Selvatura Butterfly Garden
  • Hanging Bridges through the treetop canopy
    Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Monteverde Cloud Forest & Local Culture

• Morning guided tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
  • Chance to spot the rare and colourful quetzal
• Afternoon visit to a family-run farm to learn about coffee and sugar cane production
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Sarchí • Return to San José

• Drive to San José via Sarchí, known for its handicrafts and painted oxcarts
• Overnight at the Crowne Plaza Corobici Hotel
  Meals: Breakfast

Days 10–11: Return to London

• Transfer to San José Airport for flight to London with British Airways
• Arrive the following day
  Meals: Breakfast (Day 10), None (Day 11)