A Luxury Adventure in Costa Rica
Trip highlights
- A luxurious night in the cosmopolitan city of San Jose
- River rafting and hot springs expeditions
- Three nights at the remote Pacuare Lodge
- Hiking around the volcano in Arenal
- A waterfall rappelling adventure.
- Relaxing on the beach on the Guanacaste Coast
Our bespoke trips include
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 2–5 Pacuare Reserve
- Days 5–8 Arenal
- Days 8–11 The Guanacaste Coast
- Days 1–2 San Jose
- Days 2–5 Pacuare Reserve
- Days 5–8 Arenal
- Days 8–11 The Guanacaste Coast
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.
Overnight in vibrant San Jose
Enjoy your evening in Costa Rica’s metropolitan capital city of San Jose, relaxing in the comfort of an exclusive hotel after your flight. This is a small city, full of art and history.
Where you could stay
The Coffee Valley
Highlights
- Organic coffee plantation
- Suites and villas available
- Chemical-free swimming pool
- Farm-to-table food
- 100% local staff
Overview
Finca Rosa Blanca is the sort of place that’s difficult to leave once you’ve settled in. Mornings are spent sipping fresh Costa Rican coffee, grown right here on the plantation, overlooking the lush forest that surrounds the lodge, while by night you can gaze out to see the twinkling lights of San Jose in the distance, listening to the sounds of the Costa Rican wilderness around you.
The architecture of this lodge is immediately striking, with its round turrets and vaulted ceilings clad with solid wood, and inside the decor brings a little bit of the jungle indoors with hand-painted murals and leafy lounge areas. Activities abound here: soak in the indoor pool or the patio hot tub, take a tour of the plantation, go whitewater rafting or explore the enchanting cloud forests beyond the lodge’s doors.
When you return to the lodge after a day’s exploring, there’s excellent farm-to-table food on offer in the restaurant, and more of that fresh Costa Rican coffee to finish off a fine meal.
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- The carbon-neutral hotel sits on an 11-hectare permaculture and coffee farm, prioritising environmental protection in every detail. The main structure, renovated using traditional methods, preserves Costa Rican culture and history. The property uses natural, non-toxic paints, harvests rainwater, and implements a comprehensive waste management and composting system. Guests can explore the sustainability efforts through guided tours with staff members.
- Finca Rosa Blanca staunchly supports and safeguards local history, culture, and heritage. As a 100% locally staffed establishment, it offers intimate cultural tours, fostering economic benefits for local communities and encouraging cross-cultural understanding.
- A leader in sustainability in Costa Rica, Finca Rosa Blanca stands as a model hotel for best practices and sustainability according to the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. Their exceptional efforts have earned them the highest five-leaf accreditation and an unprecedented 100% score from the Certification for Sustainable Tourism, showcasing their commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism.
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 moreThe Coffee Valley
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 moreTransfer to Pacuare Lodge by raft
The scenic journey to Pacuare Lodge takes just over 1.5 hours by raft. 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 battling surging waters down miles of rapids fed by crystal-clear waterfalls.
A luxury rainforest stay
Your adventure begins in the Pacuare Reserve where Pacuare Lodge will be your home for the next three nights. This magical hideaway in the jungle is the perfect place to experience the beauty of the rainforest. During your stay, you’ll zip line through the canopy and spend time hiking and birdwatching.
Pacuare Lodge is also a wonderful place to simply unwind with great food and drink and a spa that offers a range of relaxing treatments. Falling asleep to the sound of the forest is a feeling few others match – a few days here is a real tonic after the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Accommodation in Pacuare Reserve
Pacuare Reserve
Highlights
- 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
Overview
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.
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- Pacuare Lodge was created with a commitment to environmental preservation. Located on the Pacuare River, it harnesses hydropower for energy, avoiding tree cutting for construction. The buildings utilise lumber sourced from a reforestation project run by small farmers, brought in via raft.
- The lodge has acquired 340 hectares (840 acres) of primary rainforest along the Pacuare River for conservation, representing the first initiative of its kind in the country.
- 100% of Pacuare Lodge’s staff come from local communities such as Nairi Awari Indigenous Reserve, Bajos del Tigre, Linda Vista, Santa Marta, and nearby areas between Turrialba Town and Siquirres. The lodge offers direct or indirect employment, providing a formal income source in communities previously without such opportunities. This close collaboration offers guests a unique glimpse into indigenous culture while actively involving the local community in sustainable tourism and conservation.
Pacuare Reserve highlights
Learn about Indigenous culture
The Cabécar are Costa Rica’s largest indigenous group. In Cabécar culture, small family groups are scattered across the jungle, which has helped them to maintain a traditional way of life. Take a short hike through the forest to a meet the son of a local shaman who will introduce you to his culture and customs and show you around a traditional settlement.
Canopy zip lining
An unhurried trek through tropical rainforest takes you to the first platform. Surrounded by Pacuare Lodge’s private reserve, you’re amid an unspoiled realm of gorgeous views and magnificent scenery. Once strapped in, the adrenaline kicks in as you slide along cables from tree to tree, descending the jungle-cloaked mountain toward the Pacuare Lodge. A final thrilling rappel leaves you just steps away from our main lodge.
Leaving Pacuare Lodge by raft
After breakfast on your last day at Pacuare, you will raft out from the lodge to meet your onward transfer. It’s an unforgettable way to leave an unforgettable place.
Adventure in Arenal
During your three nights in Arenal, there are a huge number of adventure activities on your doorstep – as well as options for those who want to enjoy the area at a more leisurely pace. Highlights include guided hikes around Arenal Volcano with a dip in the warm waters of the Tabacon Springs, spotting beautiful birds and incredible plant life along the way. You can get your heart rate going on a rappelling adventure from waterfall to waterfall, climbing down the walls of a canyon as you go.
Where you could stay
Arenal
Highlights
- Each tent has its own platform complete with an outdoor living area and a plunge pool
- Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at Ayla restaurant
- Wake up to incredible views of the Arenal Volcano
- Embark on either of the two in-property hiking trails
- Rejuvenate your soul with a daily yoga session
Overview
Set in Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park, Nayara Tented Camp is one of the only luxury tented camps in Central America and the sister property to the nearby Nayara Springs and Nayara Gardens. The immediate proximity to the surrounding rainforest and impressive views of the volcano make a stay here a one-of-a-kind experience.
There are a total of 29 luxuriously appointed tents within the camp, each blending harmoniously with nature. The camp is also designed with families in mind, featuring six family tents. These include an outdoor living space which is complemented by an oversized plunge pool. Dive into the cooling water, invigorated by the natural hot springs’ embrace, and let your worries melt away in its serene waves.
Nayara Tented Camp is also home to the signature Nayara tent, a tranquil oasis on stilts complete with a private pool, along with two residences. With panoramic views of the volcano, the residences have plenty of indoor and outdoor entertainment space.
Savour modern Mediterranean dishes with a Middle Eastern touch at Ayla restaurant, located in an elegant tent with incredible views of the infinity pool, the rainforest and the majestic Arenal Volcano. Afterwards, enjoy traditional cocktails and spirits at Henry’s Bar next door.
Admire the breathtaking forest view from the terrace or seek out the additional plunge pools, which are surrounded by dense forest and fed by the same mineral hot springs. There are a plethora of experiences to embark on during your stay, such as whitewater rafting, canyoning, ziplining, canopy tours, volcano hikes or just spot the sloths that call this area home.
→ Find out moreArenal
Highlights
- Open layout rooms with panoramic windows connecting you to the forest
- Suspended outdoor decks featuring heated whirlpools and hardwood Adirondack loungers
- Rainforest spa offering an array of wellness treatments and views of the forest canopy
- Complimentary daily yoga and meditation sessions high above the forest
- Mineral spring pools rich in restorative natural elements
- Adventure trails through Arenal Volcano's tropical jungle
Overview
Amor Arenal offers a luxurious, nature-immersed experience in the heart of Costa Rica, harmonising with the tropical forest of the Arenal Volcano and celebrating the sights, sounds, flavours and scents of the region.
The open layout rooms feature bold architecture with vaulted ceilings and panoramic windows that invite the dense forest inside. Each room boasts a suspended outdoor deck with a heated whirlpool and hardwood Adirondack loungers, perfect for soaking in the tropical forest jungle of Arenal Volcano.
Daily complimentary yoga high above the forest canopy and invigorating exercise sessions with cardio machines are just part of the resort’s offering of a holistic approach to well-being. The mineral springs, a hallmark of Costa Rica’s La Fortuna region, offer restorative natural elements and the resort harnesses these waters to offer three pools. The waters of the swim-up bar with in-water bar stools invite you to enjoy refreshing cocktails. The main cool-water mineralised pool is shrouded by the forest canopy with glimpses of Arenal Volcano. The lounging pool, a smaller retreat surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, is perfect for reading, napping and enjoying meaningful moments of relaxation and connection to nature.
→ Find out moreArenal
Highlights
- 50 spacious bungalows and villas with private terraces and Jacuzzis
- Take your stay one step further with the serene Rainforest Pool Villa
- Enjoy Latin American and Spanish drinks at the Nostalgia Wine Bar
- Embark on experiences such as white-water rafting on the Sarapiqui River
- Cleanse your soul with a treatment at the clifftop spa
Overview
Nayara Gardens, the original property in the hilltop trio that also consists of Nayara Springs and Nayara Tented Camp, is a fitting choice for those looking for a private getaway in Arenal. Situated in the green valleys at the foot of the spectacular Arenal Volcano are Nayara Gardens’ 50 spacious and private casitas (bungalows) and villas.
Large screened windows open up allowing for plenty of natural light. The decor is a call to the wildlife of Costa Rica with lashings of tropical orange and the greens of encroaching foliage, along with dark wood furniture. Boasting expansive garden decks, the casitas are further adorned with hammocks or Jacuzzis where you can unwind to the melodies of the rainforest, making this property an ideal hideaway for those after a romantic retreat.
For the utmost luxury, enjoy a stay in the uniquely designed Rainforest Pool Villa. Here light drips in from almost every angle due to the villa’s octagonal layout, and the lush rainforest seems within touching distance from the wraparound balcony. Relax in the cooling waters of your own private plunge pool as you gaze out across to the Arenal Volcano.
When you aren’t indulging yourself in the luxuries of your casita, head down to any of the four restaurants in order to savour rich Costa Rican flavours. Nayara Gardens also hosts a plethora of experiences which you can embark on with a private guide. Whip across the top of the rainforest canopy on a zipline or rappel down the side of one of Arenal’s waterfalls.
Alternatively, make your way to the property’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 moreArenal
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 highlights
Waterfall rappelling
Explore the secrets that lie hidden in the depths of a tropical rainforest canyon as you take on 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. There are several trails that lead from waterfall to waterfall. After a short hike out of the canyon, you will travel on by 4×4 vehicle to a delicious Costa Rican lunch.
Hiking to Tabacon 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.
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 Nicaraguan border south to the Nicoya Peninsula. There’s a warm Pacific climate perfect for surfing, kayaking or snorkelling, and you can explore the Rancho Humo wetlands or horse ride along the coast and through the forest.
Where you could stay
The Guanacaste Coast
Overview
Occupying the entire Papagayo Peninsula on Costa Rica’s northwestern Guanacaste coast this hotel’s facilities are extensive and feature four restaurants, three pools, a championship-size golf course, tennis courts, spa and a collection of stand-alone villas.
Papagayo is a vivid green spit of land that winds into the Pacific blue, decorated with idyllic golden beaches of which the hotel has direct access to two. The hotel’s 182 guest rooms, suites and villas are smart and luxurious, incorporating lots of Costa Rican and tropical style with the use of bamboo, rattan, solid wood furniture, shuttered windows and doors. Stone finishes and beige tones are broken up by the occasional vivid splash of colour.
There are three categories of accommodation; the guest rooms are housed in three small individual buildings on both sides of the peninsula and the hotel’s facilities and pools are a five-minute stroll away. The treehouse-like canopy suites are elevated for views over the dry tropical forest canopy down to the water and some have their own plunge pools. However, if you’re after privacy and tranquillity then the residences equipped like a proper home with kitchen, infinity pool and two or three bedrooms are ideal.
There’s also plenty to keep you entertained and much to help you unwind; a range of activities and private excursions direct from the hotel can be organised and the spa offers an array of body and facial treatments.
→ Find out moreThe Guanacaste Coast
Overview
Andaz Papagayo is a beautifully located boutique resort overlooking where Gulf of Papagayo meets the sapphire blue waters of Culebra Bay.
153 modern rooms and suites with private plunge pools, sit cascading down a verdant hillside between two secluded beaches. Settle into your room and enjoy the views of the ocean and forest. Woven textiles, solid wood furnishings and carved artefacts give the rooms a charming Costa Rican aesthetic.
When it comes to dining, there are three themed restaurants to choose from. Each uses unique flavours and ingredients to perfectly capture the essence of Latin America in each dish. Choose from the open-air Rio Bhongo, the Latin-influenced Chao Pescao, or seafood extraordinaire Ostra. Dine under the trees, watch the chef’s team in action in the open kitchens and feel truly at home and among friends.
Take a dip in the outdoor pools, get in a workout at the gym, unwind at the spa, or head down to the nearby beaches. Make the most of the clear water and participate in activities like kayaking, stand-up paddling and snorkelling. You can also enjoy fishing, water skiing, and surfing in the gentle bay waters
Nearby attractions include the Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a championship gold course and a number of adventure activities such as zip-lining, white water rafting and rock climbing.
→ Find out moreThe Guanacaste Coast
Overview
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.
The Guanacaste Coast
Overview
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.
→ Find out moreMake it mine
Water
Land
Snorkelling
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.
Horseback riding
Enjoy picturesque trails on a private horse riding tour, during which you will see a variety of plants and animals and enjoy beautiful vistas of the coast and rainforest.