Classic Costa Rica

Duration 10 days
Price guide
From
  PP
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Immerse yourself in Costa Rica's natural wonders on this 10-day luxury trip, beginning in San Jose and venturing to Tortuguero, Arenal and Manuel Antonio. Experience the biodiversity of Tortuguero National Park with exclusive boat tours and lavish riverside lodges. In Arenal, luxuriate in panoramic views of the volcano, adrenaline-pumping activities and private hot spring relaxation. Finally, unwind in Manuel Antonio with private guided tours of the national park. Throughout this trip, you'll enjoy personalised experiences put together exclusively for you, by our team of travel experts.

Trip highlights

  • Spot endangered green sea turtles in Tortuguero
  • Go white water rafting and get adventurous in Arenal
  • Cross the Arenal Reserve's hanging bridges
  • See swinging monkeys, sloths and toucans in Manuel Antonio National Park

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Privately guided tours
  • Private transfers
  • Meticulously selected experiences
  • Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
  • Days 1-2 San Jose
  • Days 2-4 Tortuguero
  • Days 4-7 Arenal
  • Days 7-10 Manuel Antonio
Classic Costa Rica
Price guide
  PP
  • Days 1-2 San Jose
  • Days 2-4 Tortuguero
  • Days 4-7 Arenal
  • Days 7-10 Manuel Antonio

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1-2

An introduction to Costa Rica's capital city

In the heart of the Central Valley, San Jose, the vibrant capital city of Costa Rica, is a captivating blend of culture, history and modernity. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history through its landmarks, including the majestic National Theater, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and the historic Barrio Amón, known for its beautifully preserved colonial buildings. Art enthusiasts will delight in the city’s numerous galleries and museums, such as the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of indigenous artifacts. Beyond its cultural treasures, San Jose offers a thriving culinary scene, with an abundance of restaurants serving up traditional Costa Rican dishes as well as international cuisine.

 

 

 

Days 2-4

Two nights in Tortuguero

Embark on exciting adventures in Tortuguero where lush rainforests, tranquil waterways and abundant wildlife await exploration. Kayak through winding rivers, spot colourful birds and elusive wildlife with knowledgeable guides. Enjoy fishing expeditions, witness endangered sea turtles laying eggs and venture on rainforest treks discovering the ins and outs of the region. Wildlife excursions in small boats offer up-close encounters with caimans, river otters and howler monkeys, promising unforgettable adventures in one of Costa Rica’s most captivating destinations.

 

 

 

Days 4-7

Three nights in Arenal

At the forefront of Arenal’s allure is its namesake volcano, a towering colossus that looms over the landscape, shrouded in mist and mystery. Though no longer actively erupting, its symmetrical cone and rugged slopes provide a dramatic backdrop for exploration and photography.

Venturing beyond the volcano, you will discover a wealth of outdoor activities. Hike through the dense rainforest of Arenal Volcano National Park, where trails wind past steaming vents, lava fields and hidden waterfalls. Embark on a zip-lining tour through the treetops, soaring above the canopy with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Or, for a more leisurely experience, take a dip in the natural hot springs that bubble up from the earth, providing relaxation and rejuvenation in equal measure.

Get active

White water rafting

Zip-lining

Suspension bridges

Rushing rapids in Arenal

Prepare for an exhilarating white water rafting adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Arenal.

Feel the adrenaline surge as you navigate through the rushing waters of pristine rivers, surrounded by lush rainforest scenery.

With expert guides leading the way, you’ll tackle thrilling rapids and conquer challenging stretches of the river, each bend offering a new rush of excitement.

As you paddle through the heart of nature, keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the diverse wildlife that calls Costa Rica home – from playful monkeys swinging through the trees to colourful birds soaring overhead.

A zip-lining canopy adventure

Experience the exhilaration of this aerial escapade as you begin from a towering platform standing at an impressive 13 meters (43 feet) high.

Glide effortlessly along eight galvanized stainless steel cables, ranging from 80 meters (262 feet) to an astounding 750 meters (2460 feet) in length, with an average height of 38 meters (125 feet) above the forest floor.

Reach speeds exceeding 60 kilometers per hour (37 mph) as you soar through the canopy! Strategically positioned at various heights, all 14 platforms, including five ingeniously crafted within the trees themselves, offer unparalleled vantage points for observing the rainforest from diverse angles.

Experience Arenal's hanging bridges

Feel the rush of adrenaline as you traverse suspended bridges high above the forest canopy, offering breathtaking of the the surrounding landscapes.

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the tropical wilderness, as you encounter exotic wildlife and vibrant flora at every turn.

The trails in the reserve have been designed for all levels of trekkers and cover about 3100m (10,170 feet) of the mountainous zone.

Days 7-10

A grand finale in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio stands out as the nation’s premier coastal getaway, and it’s not hard to see why. With its thoughtful development, protected marine areas, expansive national parks and pristine white-sand beaches, it offers an unparalleled experience. Here, you can bask in the tranquility of secluded spots or dive into an array of exhilarating water activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, and even dolphin watching.

A trekking adventure through Manuel Antonio National Park

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park and delve into one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking natural reserves. Accompanied by a seasoned guide, you’ll traverse through this vibrant ecosystem teeming with diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for various monkey species, sloths, coatimundis and an array of other fascinating creatures.

Established in 1972 to safeguard the lush forests and pristine beaches, Manuel Antonio boasts a rich biodiversity, serving as a sanctuary for many of Costa Rica’s endangered species.

Despite its modest size, this park is renowned as one of the country’s finest, offering visitors an unforgettable immersion into its unparalleled natural beauty.

“Costa Rica‌”

We chose to travel to beautiful Costa Rica with Jacada Travel and it was the best decision we made! Having found them on google even though they had fabulous reviews I was still apprehensive as I didn’t know anyone else who’d heard of them and being a country we weren’t familiar with and taking our three young boys, I was…

Published 24th January 2019 on Trustpilot
Lucy Hawkins

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