Luxury Adventure in Costa Rica
The incredible Pacuare Reserve, majestic Arenal volcano and the beautiful Guanacaste Coast
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
-
River rafting and hot springs expeditions lead by specialist guides
-
Three nights in the incredible Pacuare Lodge
-
Hiking around the volcano in Arenal
-
Relaxing on the beach on the Guanacaste Coast
What's included
-
River rafting, volcano and hot springs expeditions lead by specialist guides
-
Private transfers
-
Meet and greet airport service
-
Full support from your Travel Designer and Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Costa Rica is one big outdoor playground with beautiful rainforest, volcanoes and an idyllic coastline. This 11-day trip lets you explore the country’s incredible landscapes in style with privately guided excursions and luxury accommodation throughout.
Your adventure begins in the Pacuare Reserve where Pacuare Lodge will be your home for the next three nights. Just getting here is an adventure – the lodge is reached by rafting down the Pacuare River! There is so much to do here and all shared excursions are included. You can learn about the Cabecar tribe, zip line through the canopy, hike and birdwatch, and of course there’s the simple joy of relaxing at the lodge, experiencing the sights and sounds of the rainforest.
After rafting back along the river, it’s time to head to Arenal. Here you’ll hike around the volcano and take a dip in the warm waters of the Tabacon Springs, spotting beautiful birds and incredible plant life along the way. Get the heart rate going with a rappelling adventure where you’ll go from waterfall to waterfall, climbing down the walls of a canyon.
Your final stop is the Guanacaste Coast where you can enjoy the warm Pacific climate and idyllic tropical beaches. Snorkel through the colourful underwater world, explore the Rancho Humo wetlands and horse ride along the coast and through the forest.
Example trip itinerary
San Jose
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in San Jose
Accommodation in San Jose
- 40 rooms
- Restaurant
- Spa (massages only)
- Two Jacuzzis
- Rooftop terrace
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.
- 24 villas
- Three swimming pools
- Restaurant
- Spa
- TV and DVD room
- Library
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.
Overnight in San Jose
Enjoy your evening in this metropolitan capital city, relaxing at your hotel after your flight.
Rafting transfer to Pacuare Lodge
Expert guides will explain safety precautions and provide you with the necessary rafting gear before the adventure begins. Once in the water, you’ll experience sheer exhilaration as you face the challenge of each wave, battling surging waters down miles of rapids.
The journey takes just over 1.5 hours as the river passes through scenic canyons where crystal clear waterfalls plummet down into the rapidly coursing river below.
Pacuare Reserve
Accommodation in Pacuare Reserve
- 20 bungalows and suites
- Restaurant and bar
- Wine cellar
- Massages
- Private plunge pools
- Fishing
- Nature trails and hiking
- Bird-watching
- White water rafting
- Waterfalls and canopy tours
- Horseback riding
- Visits to Cabercar Indian community
It could be Pacaure’s remote setting in 740 acres of primary rainforest or its luxury cabins emerging from the thick milieu of foliage that makes this a great place to stay: but the combination is what transforms it into a truly unique one.
There is no road access to the Lodge so guests have the chance to arrive in style by raft or helicopter.
The Pacuare Reserve is home to toucans, howler monkeys, and a large variety of birds meaning your stay here brings you intimately close to nature. Located on the banks of the Pacuare River the lodge has the advantage of offering a wealth of activities, such as expert wildlife and jungle expeditions all right from your canopy threshold.
Simply but sumptuously furnished with polished wood floors, Costa Rican art and open-plan living, the 20 bungalows and suites are constructed with local timber frames and palm thatch roofs that expertly embrace the tropical habitat and jungle lifestyle. The choice of rooms and suites range from luxury garden bungalows and riverside suites to tree-top honeymoon and Linda Vista suites that look out onto unparalleled views of the river and jungle. Some have their own private infinity plunge pools.
At night the lodge is lit by candlelight, creating a magical honeycomb-like effect, and delicious food is served at the main restaurant along with wines from its own cellar. There is also a beautiful swimming pool, heated by special radiating tiles.
Three nights at Pacuare Lodge
Pacuare Lodge is a magical hideaway in the jungle and the perfect place to experience the beauty of the rainforest. All shared activities are included from canyoning and zip lining to birdwatching and hiking. The lodge itself is a wonderful place to simply unwind with great food and drink and a spa offering a range of relaxing treatments. Falling asleep to the sound of the forest is a magical feeling and a few days here is a real tonic after the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Cabecar tribe experience
The Cabécar Indians are Costa Rica’s largest tribe. They traditionally live in small family groups scattered across the jungle, which has helped them to maintain their way of life. Take a short hike through the forest to a meet the son of a local shaman who will introduce to his culture and customs and show you around a traditional settlement.
Canopy zip lining
The action begins with a safety orientation and donning of specialized equipment. You then begin an unhurried trek through tropical rainforest up to the first platform - this twenty-minute hike into the Pacuare Lodge’s private reserve will transport you into an unspoiled realm of gorgeous views and magnificent scenery; a haven for bird watchers and nature seekers, and offers an unprecedented glimpse of Costa Rica’s biological diversity.
Once strapped in, feel the adrenaline of dramatic views, rappelling down towering trees and sliding along cables from tree to tree as you descend the jungle cloaked mountain toward the Pacuare Lodge for a final thrilling rappel that leaves you just steps away from our main lodge. You will experience this excitement secure in the knowledge that you are safely anchored with a safety harness, providing a unique experience that no other tour of this type offers. Two hours of unforgettable adventure in the tree tops!
Rafting transfer from Pacuare Lodge
After breakfast you will raft out from the lodge to meet your onward transfer.
Transfer
Private transfer to Arenal
Arenal
Accommodation in Arenal
- 35 villas
- Private gardens and terraces
- Private plunge pools
- Spa and yoga pavillion
- Lap pool and swim-up bar
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.
- 50 rooms (mix of casitas and villas)
- Pool with three Jacuzzis
- Swim-up pool bar
- Wine and tapas bar
- Three restaurants
- Spa
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.
Three nights in Arenal
During your time in Arenal, there are a huge number of activities that we can arrange for you. There are adventure activities for the adrenalin junkies as well as options for those who want to enjoy the area at a more leisurely pace. Your travel designer will be able to guide you through the different options, so that you choose the excursions best suited to your interests.
Arenal waterfall rappelling tour
Explore the secrets that lie hidden in the depths of a tropical rainforest canyon. This adventure begins with a 4x4 drive to the site, after which you'll receive a short safety and rappelling explanation. It's then time to head to the first waterfall to descend into the canyon. There are five rappels ranging in height from 13m (25 ft) to 55m (165 ft.), including the Monkey Drop Zip Line which is approximately 25m (82 ft) long.
After rappelling down the first waterfall, you will climb up the side of the canyon wall ready to zip line across the canyon and rappel down to the canyon floor again. There are several trails that lead from waterfall to waterfall. After a short hike out of the canyon, you will travel by 4x4 vehicle back to the base office for a delicious Costa Rican lunch. Whilst here, you can stroll through the organic tropical gardens to spot birds and tropical plants.
Arenal volcano hike with Tabacon hot springs
The hike begins on one of the trails close to the volcano, and will take you through the forest over recent lava flows and the area destroyed in 1968, now in the process of regeneration. The walk will give you the chance to spot the forest’s activity and unique flora whilst your guide points these out to you and explains about the reserve's ecosystems, wildlife and the prominent effect of the volcano's activity on the area.
Transfer
Private transfer to the Guanacaste Coast
Guanacaste Coast
Accommodation in Guanacaste Coast
- 85 rooms
- Two Restaurants
- Spa and Gym
- Swimming pool
- Beach fronted
Even with 85 rooms El Mangroove still strikes a very boutique sort of style and atmosphere. Cool, contemporary design combined with a quiet position on the Papagayo Gulf, makes for a more personal alternative to the larger resorts of the area. It’s the epitome of relaxed barefoot chic.
The hotel’s range of suites have been decked out in a contemporary yet natural style, spread over three floors, affording every level a new tier of views of the surrounding mangrove trees. The property also fronts a dark-sand beach almost exclusively enjoyed by its guests, or you can take to relaxing on the sun loungers and cabanas surrounding its outdoor pool and lovely gardens.
There are a good variety of activities from fishing to yoga and surfing, and El Mangroove has two restaurants serving some excellent farm- and ocean-to-table dishes, ranging from Peruvian to Argentinean.
- 289 rooms and 21 suites
- Swimming pool
- Four restaurants and two bars
- Direct beach access
- Spa
- Fitness Centre
This spacious hacienda-style resort on the Guanacaste coast combines exclusive five-star luxury with beautiful seaside surroundings. Courtyards slung with hammocks, red brick and dark furniture give the hotel a local feel, and the 289 rooms and 21 suites have a typically “Tico” feel with marble bathrooms, and stunning views out over the beach and ocean.
With four restaurants, two bars and a coffee and ice cream shop, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to dining. Enjoy Italian-style dishes at Azul Grill, savour international cuisine made with local ingredients at Mansita Restaurant, satisfy your craving for something hearty at Sabanero Steak House, and treat yourself to contemporary Asian flavours at Tamarine. Azul Pool Bar specialises in refreshing natural cocktails and healthy light meals, and Nau Lobby Bar is the idea place to raise a glass at the end of a busy day. For a quick Costa Rican coffee or indulgent Italian ice cream, pop into Waves and Cream.
After a day of exploring, indulge in a treatment or two at the spa, take a dip in the swimming pool or stroll down to the beach. There are a variety of activity options for active guests. Head out into the countryside and go biking, hiking or horseriding, or spend your day at the beach jet skiing, kayaking, snorkelling sailing or surfing.
- 57 rooms, suites and casitas
- Infinity pool
- Restaurant and two bars
- Private beach
- Spa
- Gym
An impressive resort with a luxurious collection of accommodation categories, Punta Islita also has its own private beach and is well connected to the local villages.
Situated on the beautiful Guanacaste coast and western side of the Nicoya Peninsula this hotel comes with all the extensive facilities and modern amenities one expects yet avoids the insular feeling you sometimes get from other resorts. There are 57 rooms, suites and casitas to choose from. Deluxe rooms are spacious and have their own terrace with hammocks, the suites are similar but have their own deck with Jacuzzi and if you want an ocean view in either, you’ll have to specify this. The casitas are really quite charming and ideal for couples or for those looking for that extra bit of privacy with their own garden, plunge pool, and terrace.
As well as the choice of staying in the hotel’s casitas or villas, there is the private Islita beach with sun loungers and a frequent shuttle service to the Corozalato village and other local towns for guests who want to discover the region and perhaps indulge in some local artisanal shopping. The villas tend to be privately owned but rented out by the hotel with either two or three bedrooms, terraces, private plunge pool, garden and are a great option for families, groups or extended stays.
Stylish Pacifico Restaurant showcases the rich textures, vibrant colours, and flavours of Costa Rica, and the menu features fresh local ingredients reflecting the region’s diversity. For a laid-back meal, take a table at Los Cocos Beachfront Club.
There is a plentiful amount of local expeditions, adventure activities and workshops to enjoy and a spa, golf course and tennis courts to indulge in.
Three nights on the Guanacaste Coast
With its stretches of golden sand beaches, wildlife reserves and ultra-easy-going atmosphere, the Guanacaste Coast is the perfect place to kick back and relax for a few days. Nicknamed the 'gold coast', it stretches all the way from the Nicaragua border south to the Nicoya Peninsula. There is lots to do here from surfing and snorkelling to horse riding and kayaking.
Snorkelling the Guanacaste Coast
Your guide will introduce you to the underwater world, where you'll discover the beauty that lies beneath the Pacific Ocean. Learn about the different creatures and species that inhabit these waters and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and turtles.
Horse riding
Enjoy picturesque trails on this horse riding tour, during which you will see a variety of plants and animals and enjoy beautiful vistas of the coast and rainforest. This horseback ride is appropriate for riders of all skill levels.
Transfer
Private transfer to Liberia airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
Other trips you may be interested in
Get in touch
Luxury Adventure in Costa Rica
How we work
Costa Rica is one big outdoor playground with beautiful rainforest, volcanoes and an idyllic coastline. This 11-day trip lets you explore the country’s incredible landscapes in style with privately guided excursions and luxury accommodation throughout. Your adventure begins in the Pacuare Reserve where Pacuare Lodge will be your home for the next three nights. Just getting here is an adventure – the lodge is reached by rafting down the Pacuare River! There is so much to do here and all shared excursions are included. You can learn about the Cabecar tribe, zip line through the canopy, hike and birdwatch, and of course there’s the simple joy of relaxing at the lodge, experiencing the sights and sounds of the rainforest. After rafting back along the river, it’s time to head to Arenal. Here you’ll hike around the volcano and take a dip in the warm waters of the Tabacon Springs, spotting beautiful birds and incredible plant life along the way. Get the heart rate going with a rappelling adventure where you’ll go from waterfall to waterfall, climbing down the walls of a canyon. Your final stop is the Guanacaste Coast where you can enjoy the warm Pacific climate and idyllic tropical beaches. Snorkel through the colourful underwater world, explore the Rancho Humo wetlands and horse ride along the coast and through the forest. | Whats included?
|
Days 1-2 |
San Jose |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in San Jose |
|
|
Accommodation in San Jose
•
Grano de Oro - $$$$$
This traditional and elaborate mansion in the city’s downtown district is surprisingly...
•
Xandari - $$$$$
Its innovative design and fun tropical decoration is what makes Xandari quite a one-off hotel...
|
|
| Overnight in San Jose Enjoy your evening in this metropolitan capital city, relaxing at your hotel after your flight. |
|
| Rafting transfer to Pacuare Lodge Expert guides will explain safety precautions and provide you with the necessary rafting gear before the adventure begins. Once in the water, you’ll experience sheer exhilaration as you face the challenge of each wave, battling surging waters down miles of rapids. The journey takes just over 1.5 hours as the river passes through scenic canyons where crystal clear waterfalls plummet down into the rapidly coursing river below. |
|
Days 2-5 |
Pacuare Reserve |
|
Accommodation in Pacuare Reserve
•
Pacuare Lodge - $$$$$
It could be the remote and unrivalled seclusion of Pacuare Lodge’s setting in 740 acres of...
|
|
| Three nights at Pacuare Lodge Pacuare Lodge is a magical hideaway in the jungle and the perfect place to experience the beauty of the rainforest. All shared activities are included from canyoning and zip lining to birdwatching and hiking. The lodge itself is a wonderful place to simply unwind with great food and drink and a spa offering a range of relaxing treatments. Falling asleep to the sound of the forest is a magical feeling and a few days here is a real tonic after the hustle and bustle of everyday life. |
|
| Cabecar tribe experience The Cabécar Indians are Costa Rica’s largest tribe. They traditionally live in small family groups scattered across the jungle, which has helped them to maintain their way of life. Take a short hike through the forest to a meet the son of a local shaman who will introduce to his culture and customs and show you around a traditional settlement. |
|
| Canopy zip lining The action begins with a safety orientation and donning of specialized equipment. You then begin an unhurried trek through tropical rainforest up to the first platform - this twenty-minute hike into the Pacuare Lodge’s private reserve will transport you into an unspoiled realm of gorgeous views and magnificent scenery; a haven for bird watchers and nature seekers, and offers an unprecedented glimpse of Costa Rica’s biological diversity. Once strapped in, feel the adrenaline of dramatic views, rappelling down towering trees and sliding along cables from tree to tree as you descend the jungle cloaked mountain toward the Pacuare Lodge for a final thrilling rappel that leaves you just steps away from our main lodge. You will experience this excitement secure in the knowledge that you are safely anchored with a safety harness, providing a unique experience that no other tour of this type offers. Two hours of unforgettable adventure in the tree tops! |
|
| Rafting transfer from Pacuare Lodge After breakfast you will raft out from the lodge to meet your onward transfer. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Arenal |
|
Days 5-8 |
Arenal |
|
Accommodation in Arenal
•
Nayara Springs - $$$$$
This boutique hotel encompasses all things luxurious, with views overlooking the grand Arenal...
•
Nayara Hotel and Gardens - $$$$$
Voted one of South America’s most romantic hotels, the Nayara is a fitting choice for those...
|
|
| Three nights in Arenal During your time in Arenal, there are a huge number of activities that we can arrange for you. There are adventure activities for the adrenalin junkies as well as options for those who want to enjoy the area at a more leisurely pace. Your travel designer will be able to guide you through the different options, so that you choose the excursions best suited to your interests. |
|
| Arenal waterfall rappelling tour Explore the secrets that lie hidden in the depths of a tropical rainforest canyon. This adventure begins with a 4x4 drive to the site, after which you'll receive a short safety and rappelling explanation. It's then time to head to the first waterfall to descend into the canyon. There are five rappels ranging in height from 13m (25 ft) to 55m (165 ft.), including the Monkey Drop Zip Line which is approximately 25m (82 ft) long. After rappelling down the first waterfall, you will climb up the side of the canyon wall ready to zip line across the canyon and rappel down to the canyon floor again. There are several trails that lead from waterfall to waterfall. After a short hike out of the canyon, you will travel by 4x4 vehicle back to the base office for a delicious Costa Rican lunch. Whilst here, you can stroll through the organic tropical gardens to spot birds and tropical plants. |
|
| Arenal volcano hike with Tabacon hot springs The hike begins on one of the trails close to the volcano, and will take you through the forest over recent lava flows and the area destroyed in 1968, now in the process of regeneration. The walk will give you the chance to spot the forest’s activity and unique flora whilst your guide points these out to you and explains about the reserve's ecosystems, wildlife and the prominent effect of the volcano's activity on the area. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to the Guanacaste Coast |
|
Days 8-11 |
Guanacaste Coast |
|
Accommodation in Guanacaste Coast
•
El Mangroove - $$$$$
Even with 85 rooms El Mangroove still strikes a very boutique sort of style and atmosphere....
•
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa - $$$$$
This spacious hacienda-style resort on the Guanacaste coast combines exclusive five-star...
•
Hotel Punta Islita - $$$$$
An impressive resort with a luxurious collection of accommodation categories, Punta Islita...
|
|
| Three nights on the Guanacaste Coast With its stretches of golden sand beaches, wildlife reserves and ultra-easy-going atmosphere, the Guanacaste Coast is the perfect place to kick back and relax for a few days. Nicknamed the 'gold coast', it stretches all the way from the Nicaragua border south to the Nicoya Peninsula. There is lots to do here from surfing and snorkelling to horse riding and kayaking. |
|
| Snorkelling the Guanacaste Coast Your guide will introduce you to the underwater world, where you'll discover the beauty that lies beneath the Pacific Ocean. Learn about the different creatures and species that inhabit these waters and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and turtles. |
|
| Horse riding Enjoy picturesque trails on this horse riding tour, during which you will see a variety of plants and animals and enjoy beautiful vistas of the coast and rainforest. This horseback ride is appropriate for riders of all skill levels. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Liberia airport |
