Welcome to Costa Rica!

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)  is located in Alajuela, in close proximity to the capital San José.  When you arrive at the airport, our driver will be waiting for you with a sign in his hand, and will take you to your first accommodation. If you arrive early in the morning and would like to do an early check-in,  we will be happy to arrange this for the corresponding additional charge of one night.  The regular check-in time starts at 14:00.

Note: The maximum waiting time is 2 hours after the scheduled arrival time. Drivers keep track of the arrival time and will pick you up at the airport even if there are delays, as long as it fits with their next transfers. In the case of slight delays, there may be an additional cost for exceeding the 2-hour waiting time, this extra must be paid directly to the driver. If the flight is diverted or the delay is more than one hour after the scheduled arrival time, the driver may not be able to wait and a new transfer may need to be paid for.

The vibrant heart of Costa Rica!

The lively capital San José is nestled in the Central Valley at an altitude of 1100 meters.  Is the cultural and financial center of the country with lots of shops and street stalls. In the city center, various places invite you to linger, such as the “Parque Morazan”, "el paseo de las Damas", "Parque España", "la Escuela Metálica", the Metropolitan Cathedral and of course, the "Plaza de la Cultura” in the center of the capital, with the historic National Theatre, a replica of the Vienna Opera. Whether in the Gold Museum, the Jade Museum or the National Museum, exciting testimonies and treasures of Costa Rica's history are displayed everywhere. On “Avenida Central”, you can shop and browse through countless shops.

In the eastside of the city, in the trendy “Barrio Escalante”, lies the culinary heart of San Jose. Try traditional or modern Costa Rican cuisine, vegan or international dishes — there's something for everyone here!

The city is easy to explore on foot during the day, and we recommend taxis for the evening hours.

Heading to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano!

Travel time approx. 3 hours

The majestic Arenal Volcano is already waiting for you. You can see its impressive, cone-shaped form from far away, while you are getting closer. However, the giant often hides behind clouds, so you are lucky if you get to see it in its full beauty!
Around the volcano, there are many natural sights to discover: waterfalls, old lava flows, huge trees, and hot springs heated by volcanic veins.

How about a hike at the foot of the volcano, followed by pure relaxation in one of the thermal springs? There are activities for all ages: from peaceful quiet to exciting adventure, there is something for everyone.

Until 2010, the volcano was regularly active, with frequent smoke and glowing rocks. This active phase began with a major eruption in 1968, and continued with smaller eruptions until 2010. Since then, Arenal Volcano has been in a resting phase with very low activity – a normal process for active volcanoes.
The volcano and the town of La Fortuna are popular stops for many tourists, offering plenty of hotels, restaurants, shops, and a wide range of activities.

Hike over the suspension bridges and to the impressive La Fortuna waterfall!

Included Activity

Experience an unforgettable adventure high above the rainforest canopy. This tour follows a scenic 3.2 km (2-mile) trail designed for a comfortable and enjoyable walk, with well-maintained paths that allow you to focus fully on the surroundings. Along the way, you’ll cross a total of 14 bridges: 8 solid fixed bridges ranging from 8 to 22 meters, and 6 suspension bridges stretching between 48 and 98 meters, from where you can admire beautiful jungle settings from the canopy perspective.

The Park has over 250 hectares of lush rainforest, with spectacular panoramic views of the jungle and the majestic Arenal Volcano. Keep an eye out for wildlife, you may be lucky enough to spot spider monkeys, sloths, and a variety of tropical birds in their natural habitat.

After your walk, the journey continues to the famous La Fortuna Waterfall, an impressive 70-meter cascade where you can take a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear pool, depending on water conditions. Please note that reaching the waterfall requires descending (and later climbing back up) a considerable number of steps, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.
Following this rainforest experience, you’ll stop at a nearby restaurant to enjoy a well-deserved meal before returning comfortably to your hotel.

• Duration: approx. 6 hours
• Tour in regular basis, sharing with other clients.
• Included: Transfer, entrance fees, bottle of water, Guide & lunch.
• Order of activities may vary

Journey into the Mystical Cloud Forest!

Travel time approx. 3.30 hours

Today, your journey takes you to the highlands of the Puntarenas province. An adventurous curvy road (via Guacimal village) marks the final stretch of your trip into the world-famous Monteverde Cloud Forest. At altitudes ranging from 900 to 1,680 meters, misty clouds drift through the treetops, enveloping the magical foggy forest in a mystical atmosphere. Exotic flowers, giant ferns, bromeliads, mosses, and lichens are part of this “evergreen forest”. In this unique environment, you will find countless plant species to explore, including nearly a thousand orchid varieties in all shapes and colors.  Birdwatchers will be captivated by the dazzling hummingbirds and the elusive Quetzal, the sacred bird of the region.

Monteverde and Santa Elena, were founded by American Quakers who left the United States to avoid being drafted into the Vietnam War.  They established at the peaceful Monteverde, which has become one of the most important nature lovers destinations. Santa Elena is the main village, and offers all the services you may need, such as supermarkets, restaurants, bars, shops, combined with wooden mountain beautiful lodges and hotels. 

From Monteverde and Santa Elena, you can easily access several Cloud Forest Reserves to discover the amazing nature of this ecosystem. For those seeking a bit more adventure, ziplining across the treetops like Superman is an exhilarating option, or you can take a more relaxed stroll across the hanging bridges that wind through the canopy.

Important: Due to the elevation and humidity, temperatures can drop at night, so be sure to pack long pants and a jacket to stay comfortable.

Afternoon Don Juan's fabulous world of coffee!

Included Activity

A very special tour awaits you in the highlands of Monteverde. As soon as you arrive at Don Juan's plantation, the guide will explain all the details about the cultivation of the coffee plants through to the roasting process. You will feel, taste and smell coffee beans at every stage of processing. You will also learn a lot about the different coffee-growing regions and gain an insight into the history of coffee. Don Juan will explain the economic, social and cultural importance of coffee in Costa Rica.

Don Juan's plantations also grow cocoa beans, and you will have the chance to learn about the traditional production and processing of the small chocolate beans and try making your own chocolate.

Snacking allowed! Sugar cane is one of the most important foods in the world. Watch the traditional method of extracting sugarcane juice, and then taste the fresh, pure juice for yourself. At the end of the tour, enjoy one of the best coffees in the world with a view over the plantation.

• Half Day Tour (morning or afternoon)
• Tour in regular basis sharing with other clients
• Includes: English speaking Guide, coffee, sugar cane and chocolate tasting.

Hiking in the Curi-Cancha Reserve!

Included Activity

Embark on an exciting adventure as you immerse yourself in the captivating world of the cloud forest in the Curi-Cancha Reserve. A 3-hour guided hike awaits you, accompanied by an expert guide who knows this breathtaking private reserve.

The Curi-Cancha Reserve is a hidden gem of biodiversity, a place where nature thrives in its purest form. As you hike through the lush forest, you will witness the impressive variety of animals and plants that have found refuge here. Colorful birds sing in the canopy, exotic orchids bloom in the treetops, and who knows which curious mammal friend might be watching you from the shadows.

Your knowledgeable guide will not only reveal the secrets of the cloud forest but also share fascinating stories about the animals and plants that live there.

• Half Day Tour (morning or afternoon)
• Own transportation
• Tour in regular basis sharing with other clients.
• Includes: Entrance fee and English speaking Guide.
• Please bring: Closed shoes, long pants, water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket.
• A valid form of identification (passport, driver's license, or ID card) must be presented at the start of the tour.

Journey to the Nicoya Peninsula to Playa Sámara!

Travel time approx.  4.30 hours

Playa Sámara on the Central North Pacific invites you to linger. The small town with its idyllic bay is known for its beautiful sandy beach and is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.  At high tide, you can even learn how to surf here.

In front of the bay lies the small island of Isla Chora, where you can snorkel on the reef. The small town itself is a hive of activity with numerous bars, restaurants and stores. Here you can enjoy a wonderful vacation and end the day with magnificent sunsets.

After arriving in Samara, take your first short walk along the beach or stroll through the small town and discover the small stores, bars and restaurants.

Explore Chora Island and its Marine Life from Samara!

Included Activity

Just off the shores of Sámara lies the beautiful Chora Island, a tropical gem known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. This guided kayaking and snorkeling tour offers a fun and relaxing way to reach the tiny island, paddling at an easy pace suitable for all experience levels.

Before setting off, your guide will provide a short safety briefing and basic kayaking instructions, making this adventure accessible even for beginners. Once at the island, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in its calm waters and discover its marine life.

Once you get to the island, you can simply relax on the peaceful beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy refreshing drinks and fresh fruit while enjoying the surroundings.

• Duration: 3 hours (low tide)
• Tour in regular basis with other clients
• Includes: Transfer from hotels in the Sámara–Carrillo area, kayaking and snorkeling equipment, English speaking Guide, Water, Juice and fresh fruits.
• Bring: Bathing Suit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camara, water shoes.

Back to the Pulsating Heart of Costa Rica!

Travel time: approx. 5 hours

Unfortunately, your vacation is slowly coming to an end.

Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to your last accommodation. Due to traffic in the Central Valley, delays are common. You can take the advantage of the city to buy your last souvenirs before your departure.

Adiós, Costa Rica!

Today, it’s time to say goodbye to the tropical paradise of Costa Rica. A transfer service will pick you up from your hotel based on your flight time and take you to the airport. With wonderful memories of your journey in your luggage, you’ll board your flight home.

We wish you a safe and pleasant flight!