Classic Costa Rica
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
- 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.
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.
Where you could stay
San Jose
Overview
This traditional and elaborate mansion in the city’s downtown district is surprisingly cosy, but naturally classy and luxurious.
Grano de Oro is a grand and tropical Victorian casona, very familial in feel with its heavily embellished interiors strewn with antiques, faded family photos, original art pieces, dark woods, deep carpets and stone tiles.
Lit by the warm glow of wall lanterns, its forty rooms are well equipped with TVs and internet. Choose a standard room for comfort and a more modern style. Both the views and decor improve with the category rank. The Vista de Oro suite is wonderfully decorated in period ceramic floor tiles, wood panelling, with rich rugs and throws. The Garden Suite is similarly adorned but also has its own private garden and patio.
On the ground floor is the restaurant with half its tables set in the hotel’s charming atrium circling a Spanish-tiled fountain surrounded by stained glass windows and the shuttered corridor balconies spilling over with vivid green plant life. The chef is French, the menu extensive, and its tables are often frequented by locals as well as guests. At night the rooftop terrace is a great place to relax, have a drink or try out the Jacuzzi.
Set in the heart of San Jose in the Barrio don Bosco neighbourhood, this is a delightful hotel; a great place for exploring the city or stopping over on your way further into Costa Rica or flying out.
→ Find out moreSan Jose
Overview
Its innovative design and fun tropical decoration is what makes Xandari quite a one-off hotel in Costa Rica’s Central Valley.
Set in 40 acres of plantation gardens and only twenty minutes from San Jose international airport, this is an ideal hilltop hideaway if you’re just beginning or ending your trip. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the terraces offer spectacular views of the majestic Central Valley.
With an architect and artist for owners, Xandari has definitely felt the force of their creativity and the hotel is adorned with extraordinary sculptures, tropical colours that imitate the fiercely vivid flora, tapestries, mosaics, paintings and stained glass. Its 24 spacious terraced villas offer stylish seclusion, vibrant comfort, beautiful valley views, and come with kitchenettes and a small garden.
The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff immensely friendly. Xandari’s grounds have four kilometres of trails filled with native birds to watch, and there’s also an orchid house, greenhouse, orchards, and organic gardens supplying the hotel’s restaurant. The farm-to-table menu includes a variety of healthy choices from Costa Rician specialities to Mediterranean and Californian dishes.
Massages, facials and mud wraps are just some of the treatments on hand at the hotel’s well-appointed Spa village.
Guests are invited to plant native trees during their stay at Xandari. Trees, bushes and flowers which especially attract, feed and provide shelter to the various types of birds and butterflies are chosen to be added to the gardens.
→ Find out moreTwo 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.
Where you could stay
Tortuguero
Highlights
- Plant-based meal options
- Caribbean flavoured local produce
- Infinity pool overlooking the river
- Baby turtle hatching experiences
- Kayaking on the Tortuguero River
Overview
A laid back, tranquil riverside retreat, this lodge just a mile north of Tortuguero town has the edge on most properties in the area: it’s the only one with its own private nature reserve. That means you can take boat trips with a naturalist or head out on foot with a guide right from your doorstep – and getting outdoors really is a must, as this place is wild, with turtles, brightly coloured frogs and myriad birds to meet.
Staying around the lodge has its benefits, too, though. Set within a series of brightly painted buildings, with colours ranging from turquoise to pink, the airy bedrooms are a comfortable place to relax – especially thanks to those with Tortuguero River views from your private balcony.
There’s an infinity pool overlooking the river, fishing poles to use to see what you can catch, and swaying hammocks that invite lazy afternoons in the sun by the Caribbean Sea. The Green Turtle Restaurant offers a taste of the Caribbean, with dishes like rice and beans or rondón stew, and their plant-based menu has tacos, plantain rolls and poke bowls.
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- Collectively, the Böëna Wilderness Lodges, including Lapa Rios Rainforest Lodge, Pacuare Lodge, Tortuga Lodge, Monteverde Lodge & Gardens, and Cloud Forest Lodge, own and protect over 800 hectares of primary and secondary forest in vulnerable areas near national parks and crucial biological corridors.
- Tortuga Lodge celebrates local Caribbean culture through cultural tours, room names honouring community members, and support for the local Caribbean School of Music. Monthly donations enable over 30 children and adolescents to learn Caribbean-style music, encouraging them to spread culture and art in Tortuguero and San Francisco.
- Tortuga Lodge excels in sustainability, sourcing 55% of its energy from 55 solar panels with efficient distribution. Active digesters produce kitchen methane, and advanced water purification negates bottled water use. The lodge opts for salt over chlorine in pools, employs eco-friendly products, and actively manages waste through recycling and cleanups. Emphasising reduced single-use plastics and reusable containers, the lodge transforms restaurant compostable waste into nutrient-rich compost for its gardens.
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
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.
Where you could stay
Arenal
Highlights
- 103 rooms and suites
- Two restaurants
- Four bars
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- Communal thermal springs
- Gym
Overview
Tabacon is a beautiful and serene luxury hotel, located at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. It is set within 900 acres of lush, tropical grounds through which Costa’s Rica’s largest network of hot springs flows.
This rainforest retreat is tucked away on a winding road that climbs up from the small village of La Fortuna. There are 103 rooms and suites that look out over the rainforest and gardens. Decor is contemporary and elegant and feature artwork and furnishings from Costa Rican artists.
The River Tabacon feeds into waterfalls and warm pools lined with soft, black sand and guests staying at Tabacon will enjoy full use of the thermal mineral springs. The water is heated by the volcano and the temperature in the pools ranges between 72 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Head upstream and you’ll find the Shangri-La Gardens, an adult-only hideaway with six pools, cocoon-shaped cabanas and bar. The open-air spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, made all the more relaxing by the idyllic surroundings and sounds of the rainforest.
There are two restaurants offering a mix of Costa Rican and international cuisine, as well as four bars.
→ Find out moreArenal
Overview
This boutique hotel encompasses all things luxurious, with views overlooking the grand Arenal Volcano, beautiful villas and a state-of-the-art spa and yoga pavilion. Privacy is as well taken care of as luxury, sitting outside the Costa Rican town of La Fortuna, Nayara Springs provides the perfect amount of seclusion at around three hours from the capital, San Jose.
Each of the 35 villas is nestled among the floral gardens of the tropical rainforest and boasts its own personal pool, a spacious private garden with outdoor shower, a sumptuous four-poster bed, alongside both indoor and outdoor seating areas.
A rich array of natural wildlife awaits, and guests can enjoy it from their private terrace, or by taking a tour through the Arenal Volcano National Park. Guests can then unwind by indulging in a treatment at the spa, heading to the yoga pavilion or swimming pool, or enjoying a drink at the stylish piano bar.
Cuisine at Nayara Springs is served at the lovely poolside restaurant, Amor-Loco, where fresh fish, Latin American inspired sushi and organic home-grown vegetables all grace the menu.
→ Find out moreArenal
Overview
Voted one of South America’s most romantic hotels, the Nayara is a fitting choice for those looking for a private getaway in the Arenal.
Nestled in the green valleys at the foot of the spectacular Arenal Volcano are Nayara’s 50 luxury rooms -29 casitas and 21 rainforest villas. Large screened windows open up allowing for plenty of natural light. The decor is simple, but but neat with lashings of tropical orange, the greens of encroaching foliage, fine bed linen, dark wood furniture and polished floors. The privacy of the cottages and their amenities, with terrace, Jacuzzi and garden, makes this an ideal hideaway for the newly hitched or those after a romantic retreat.
Even though Nayara is a resort, the staff make every effort to treat you in a very personal manner and the service is impeccable. Also if you feel like getting out of your casita and enjoying some of the area’s activities and adventures you will be spoilt for choice. For relaxation, however, head to the hotel’s spa for a massage, coffee scrub or a volcanic mud bath. Perched atop a cliff and overlooking the forest, it’s the ideal place to unwind and rejuvenate.
→ Find out moreA 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.
Where you could stay
Manuel Antonio
Overview
Sitting in 11 acres of its own private nature reserve and bookended by the stunning Playa Espadilla and Playitas beach, Arenas del Mar is a superb hotel for enjoying the delights of Manuel Antonio National Park which is within walking distance.
The rooms, of which there are 38, are all well equipped with private balconies looking out onto the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastal islands. As a leader in the trend of sustainable hotels in this country, Arenas del Mar prides itself on its eco-conscious practices and ethos and the service is both friendly and efficient.
The two restaurants at the hotel place a strong emphasis on fresh, wholesome and local food. The menus showcase gourmet Costa Rican cuisine and responsibly-caught seafood. There are also delicious vegetarian and vegan options available.
There are a number of tours and activities to choose from so you can really take advantage of all that the area has to offer (and it offers a lot) or simply relax on the hotel’s private beach, at the poolside or indulge in a spa treatment or two.
→ Find out moreManuel Antonio
Overview
Describing itself as “a jungle getaway for discerning adults”, Makanda certainly delivers on luxury, uninterrupted seclusion and romance. Recent renovations have extended its accommodation offering and incorporated more natural materials like marble and wood into the design, and added bespoke artworks as features.
The 27 rooms and suites are fully immersed in a haven of southern Pacific rainforest between the fishing port of Quepos and the Manuel Antonio National Park. The décor is stylish, modern and typically tropical with the odd indigenous piece of art so as not to completely displace you from your rich flora surroundings and native appreciation.
All the accommodation is spaciously designed with lots of amenities, sea views, and terraces so that all you’ll need is right there in your room. Communal spaces are cosier, giving this hideaway a tranquil character. The villas are all individually decorated and are an even more secluded option with their own kitchens and mini Japanese gardens, perfect for honeymooners or couples.
Enjoy uncomplicated dishes featuring fresh local ingredients at Arbol Restaurant. Old recipes and familiar tastes are celebrated and reimagined. With amazing ocean views, the restaurant has been designed to make the most of its jungle setting.
→ Find out more
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…
Start planning
your adventure
How it works
- Simply click ‘Start Planning’ or give us a call.
- We’ll get in touch within 24 hours and work with you to perfect the details of your trip.
- Sit back and relax while we plan a bespoke itinerary for you.
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.