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Natural Paradise

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Category
  • Groups
  • Small Groups
  • Fully Guided
  • Shuttle
Style
  • Adventure
  • Beach
  • Birdwatching
  • Highlight

Itinerary

San Jose
day 1

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.

Surrounded by mountains and volcanoes!

The majority of the Costa Rican population lives in the Central Valley. The lively capital of Costa Rica has many beautiful corners that are waiting to be discovered. Whether it's the parks or one of the numerous museums, the city has a lot to offer.

If you are looking for the original Costa Rica, you should visit the small neighbouring valleys with towns such as Ciudad Colón or Santa Ana. At the weekend, you can marvel at the variety of fruit and vegetables at a weekly market and get to know one or two exotic fruits.

On the mountain slopes of the active Poás volcano you will find coffee plantations and pastures with large herds of cattle. Here you can enjoy the beautiful nature of big trees, bromeliads, lichens and mosses.

The climate in the central valley is particularly pleasant and mild. At night, the mountain slopes offer a unique view of the sparkling sea of lights of the entire valley.

Duration: 1 day
Included: Bed and Breakfast
La Fortuna
day 2 to 3

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.

Duration: 1 day
Included: Bed and Breakfast

In Search of Sloths!

Included Activity

Today, you will embark on a unique tour! You will be picked up at your hotel and set off in search of the ever-smiling tree inhabitants. The local guide knows the area inside and out and will take you to the usual sloth hiding spots. The Arenal area is known for its diverse wildlife, including the two species of sloths that live in Costa Rica. In addition to sloths, you may also spot toucans, frogs, hummingbirds, iguanas, and monkeys.

Breakfast or a snack is included and will be arranged according to the tour schedule. After the tour, you will return to the hotel.

  • Duration 3 hours
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Tour in regular basis, sharing with other clients.
  • Sloth hotspots are reached by bus, with a short walk on site (depending on the starting point).
  • Included: Transfer, English speaking guide, binoculars, entrance fees, water, and breakfast or snack (depending on the tour start).

Note: If you do not see a single sloth, you will receive a full refund of the tour price!

Adventure and Adrenaline While Canyoning!

Included Activity

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! In the morning, you will be picked up at the hotel and driven to the canyon outside La Fortuna. From there, you’ll continue your journey up the mountain in a 4x4 vehicle, offering stunning views of the surrounding towns and the mighty Arenal Volcano.

Once you arrive at the canyon, your expert guide will provide you with all the necessary equipment and safety instructions. Then, you'll embark on a short hike through the rainforest, a preview of the incredible adventure that lies ahead. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife — with a bit of luck, you may spot toucans, sloths, monkeys, and other incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

At the highest point of the trail, the real fun begins! Prepare yourself for three thrilling waterfall descents and an exhilarating climb along a rock face. For an extra burst of adrenaline, you'll zoom through the treetops on the Monkey Drop, a unique experience that will make you feel like a monkey swinging through the jungle!

  • Duration: approx. 4 hours
  • Tour in regular basis
  • Included: Transportation, English speaking Guide, equipment & Lunch
  • What to bring: Quick-drying clothing (surf shorts, functional outdoor hiking clothing),sandals with tread (suitable for hiking), sneakers or light hiking boots,a change of clothes and towel.
Duration: 1 day
Included: Bed and Breakfast
Manuel Antonio
day 4 to 5

To Manuel Antonio on the Beautiful Central Pacific Coast!

Travel time approx. 5 hours

Today, your journey takes you to the Central Pacific, to the southern province of Puntarenas. Here lies the town of Manuel Antonio, renowned for its national park and some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Close to the coast, you'll find a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys and sloths. Be sure to keep your food well-secured, as the local wildlife is known to be quite curious, and could take food from the visitors!

Due to the popularity and the highlight of Manuel Antonio, the area has a wide variety of hotels and restaurants, though prices can be higher than in other parts of the country.  Most of the accommodations and dining spots are located on hillsides, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Get ready to experience the perfect combination of natural beauty and relaxation in this stunning destination!

Duration: 1 day
Included: Bed and Breakfast

Hike in Manuel Antonio National Park!

Included Activity

The famous Manuel Antonio National Park is perfect for exploring on a guided tour. Together with your guide, you will go in search of monkeys, sloths, birds and butterflies and observe them up close through a telescope. The hike of approx. 3 kilometres also takes you past beautiful beaches that invite you to cool off. Experience the lush rainforest, the light-coloured beaches and the clear blue water during a stay on the beach.  

  • Half Day Tour
  • Tour in Regular Basis sharing with other clients
  • Includes:  Transfer, English speaking Guide, Entrance Fee.
  • Bring:  Sunscreen, Walking shoes, swimsuit, small towel, hat.

Important:   If you want to bring a water bottle, it must be a reusable bottle. Disposable bottles are not allowed in the Park.  The National Park is closed on Tuesdays. 

Duration: 1 day
Included: Bed and Breakfast
Golfo Dulce
day 6 to 8

Far from the stresses of everyday life!

Travel time approx. 3.30 hours (+ 45 minutes boat ride)

The Osa Peninsula is surrounded by a breathtaking rainforest and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Prepare for an exclusive nature adventure. Here you'll find the same flora and fauna as in Corcovado National Park, secluded beaches, and a unique jungle experience. The Peninsula itself is home to over 500 tree species, and around 160 mammmals. Birdwatchers will be in their element in this region. Hummingbirds, king vultures, and scarlet macaws are just some of the highlights this region of Costa Rica has to offer. Important: Remember to bring insect repellent. This tropical paradise is very popular not only with tourists but also with mosquitoes.

Duration: 1 day
Included: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Playa Nicuesa Activities!

Explore our 165-acre coastal rainforest preserve, a sanctuary teeming with vibrant wildlife, hidden trails, and lush landscapes. Discover the magic of untouched nature as you hike through dense jungle, spot exotic species, and embrace the serenity of this unspoiled tropical paradise.

At Nicuesa you will have the chance to hike on the hotel private trails on a self-guided loop to admire the impressive nature of the area.  Other additional activities included are the free use of snorkeling, kayaks and Paddle boards to take the day at your own pace.

At additional cost, you can also do a variety of Rainforest activities such as guided hikes, Whale and Dolphin Watch, Sunset Boat tour, or take a therapeutic massage to relax after a day of activities.

Duration: 2 days
Included: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
San Jose
day 9

Back to the Pulsating Heart of Costa Rica!

Unfortunately, your vacation is slowly coming to an end.

After breakfast you will leave paradise to return to San Jose.  A boat ride will take you back to Golfito, where you will take a domestic flight to San Jose.  Upon arrival  there, your transportation will take you to your hotel.

Duration: 1 day
Included: Bed and Breakfast
day 10

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!

Duration: 1 day

Legal Information

Accommodation and services are subject to availability. If the accommodation is no longer available at the time of booking, we will look for an alternative of the same standard. Prices are subject to tax changes by the legislator. Prices for transfers are subject to fuel price changes.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and international health insurance.

Important to know: The specified journey time may vary due to road conditions and traffic volume.

Due to differing cancellation policies of the hotels, the cancellation fee could vary from the terms and conditions of Kalkonu Travel.

Natural Paradise
San Jose, Costa Rica
Natural Paradise
Travel time 10 days
  • Hilton Garden Inn Santa Ana
  • Lomas del Volcan Hotel
  • Parador Resort & Spa
  • Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge