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Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica with the "Best of Costa Rica" tour. Begin your adventure in San José, then set off to explore the enchanting canals of Tortuguero National Park, where you'll encounter a diverse array of wildlife. Marvel at the iconic Arenal Volcano and immerse yourself in the lush beauty of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, home to exotic creatures like the resplendent Quetzal. Enjoy leisure time in vibrant San José, and experience the thrill of the Sky Tram and Sky Walk, offering breathtaking views of the cloud forest and beyond. With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transfers, this tour promises an enriching and hassle-free exploration of Costa Rica's natural wonders. ...more ...less
Highlights
Enjoy a boat tour along the canals of stunning Tortuguero National Park.
Discover exotic wildlife like turtles, sloths, iguanas, monkeys, birds, and frogs.
Marvel at the perfectly shaped Arenal Volcano.
Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, one of the most diverse tropical cloud forests in the world.
Experience the Sky Tram and Sky Walk in Monteverde for breathtaking views.
Spend leisure time exploring the vibrant city of San Jose.
Itinerary
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Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to the group hotel. Our Upon arrival to San Jose airport and after exiting the baggage claim area , you will meet a representative that will take you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight at Park Inn Hotel (or similar).
Day 2
:
To Tortuguero
Location: Tortuguero
Accommodation Name: Laguna Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
You will be picked up at your hotel and continue with a shared ground transfer to Tortuguero dock , on route you will have a delicious breakfast in a local restaurant. Upon arrival to Tortuguero dock you will board a comfortable boat that will take you to Laguna Lodge. As you travel along the Tortuguero Canals, let this extraordinarily paradise enchant you! Have a one-in-a-lifetime experience in this unique place surrounded by a great variety of flora and fauna, and learn interesting details about the different species you might see on the way. Overnight: Laguna Lodge (or similar).
Day 3
:
Tortuguero Canals
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: Laguna Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, we enjoy a guided boat tour along the canals of Tortuguero National Park. A jungle adventure of a lifetime! We visit the canals within the National Park to discover a large variety of birds and receive detailed information on the flora and fauna of the area. We return to the lodge for lunch. The lodge will then schedule a tour to the village in the afternoon. This tour will provide detailed information on its history, culture and work in favour of conservation of the sea turtles and the flora and fauna in general. Overnight: Laguna Lodge (or similar).
Day 4
:
Arenal
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Volcano Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic boat and bus transfer back to the town of Guapiles right in time for lunch. Enjoy a delicious lunch before a shuttle bus transfer to the Arenal area. Arenal’s perfectly symmetrical shape makes it a sightseer’s dream, while its abundance of outdoor activities makes it an easy place to check things off your “must-do in Costa Rica” list. So visit one of the nicest volcanoes in Costa Rica, cloud forests, a lake world-famous for windsurfing and an incredibly diverse population of wildlife is just part of what you will find in this amazing area of Costa Rica. Late afternoon arrival to our overnight accommodation in the Arenal area. Overnight: Volcano Lodge (or similar).
Day 5
:
Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: Trapp Family Lodge
This morning is free to enjoy the spectacular Arenal area. This afternoon we depart the hotel for the scenic lake crossing (boat-car) to Monteverde. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is one of the most diverse and rich tropical cloud forests in the New World and home to the resplendent Quetzal and the rare bell bird. Monteverde is not only interesting for the Cloud Forest Reserve’s inhabitants, but also for its founders, the Quakers. After check-in, there is time to explore your new surroundings. Overnight: Trapp Family Lodge (or similar).
Day 6
:
Monteverde Cloud forest and Sky Tram & Sky walk
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: Trapp Family Lodge
In the morning we will hike through the well-marked trails of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This highland forest experiences almost 100% humidity all through the year, caused by moisture cladden north-easterly trade winds which blow in from the Atlantic. As they are swept up to the highlands, they cool and condense to form clouds which bathe the forest in a soft mist. Close to four meters of rain falls in the forest each year. The forest exudes an eerie atmosphere, with high misty canopies surrounding you, laden with hanging vines and unusual noises abound. Spectacular wildlife includes the Jaguar, Ocelot, Baird´s Tapir, Three-wattled Bellbird, Bare necked Umbrella bird and the magnificent Quetzal. We then enjoy an afternoon adventure on the Sky Walk & Tram that will take you up to the Continental Divide and to one of the highest mountains in the area. Sky Walk is a guided tour, which combines trails and suspension bridges. The tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy the flora and fauna of the area, always joined by one of our specialist guides. Sky Tram is a guided tour where you can have the opportunity to observe the cloud forest outstanding biodiversity, the majestic Arenal Volcano and the Nicoya Gulf. Overnight: Trapp Family Lodge (or similar).
Day 7
:
Return to San Jose
Location: San Jose
Accommodation Name: Park Inn Hotel
This morning is at your own leisure. In the afternoon return to San Jose on your shuttle transfer. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure to explore San Jose. Overnight at Park Inn Hotel (or similar).
Day 8
:
Trip concludes in San Jose
Location: San Jose
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast there will be a group transfer to the airport.
What's Included
Accommodation on a twin-share basis
Accommodation is provided on a twin-share basis.
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Meals are included as indicated in the itinerary.
All guide fees and entrance costs
All guide fees and entrance costs are included.
Shuttle bus transfers / internal transport
Shuttle bus transfers and internal transport are included.
Local guides
Local guides are provided, but there is not one guide escorting you throughout.
All activities are on a shared service basis
All activities are conducted on a shared service basis.
Specialist guides in National Parks
Specialist guides are provided in National Parks.
Airport Transfers on first and last day of the trip
Airport transfers are provided on the first and last day of the trip.
Medical Kit
A medical kit is included.
What's Not Included
Drinks of any kind
Drinks of any kind, such as bottled water, soft drinks, and beers, are not included.
Items of a personal nature
Items of a personal nature, such as laundry and phone calls, are not included.
International airfares and airport taxes
International airfares and airport taxes are not included.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
Tips
Tips are not included.
Visas
Visas are not included.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc.
Grading
These are our least demanding trips. These journeys of discovery involve little extended activity and are suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health. The itinerary may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and may involve long travel days on various types of transport. Sightseeing may be conducted on foot and all participants should be capable of carrying their own luggage from vehicle to hotel rooms. Extended walking is available for those wanting something more demanding. * Suggested preparation: Once or twice a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour, for at least 2 -3 months prior to departure.
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Wildlife
The wilderness areas of Costa Rica are populated by a vast variety of plant and animal species attracting nature lovers from all over the world. Costa Rica’s birdlife is incredibly large with 850 species being recorded. The country boasts 50 species of the hummingbird alone. There are over 600 species of butterflies, 1,200 species of orchids and 200 species of mammals including monkey, sloth, armadillos, coatis, peccaries, skunks and otters. This trip aims to view these animals in their natural habitat.
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Mode of Transport
Enjoy shuttle bus transfers and internal transport, including scenic boat rides through Tortuguero Canals and a lake crossing to Monteverde, ensuring a seamless travel experience throughout Costa Rica.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable accommodations including the Park Inn Hotel in San José, Laguna Lodge in Tortuguero, Volcano Lodge in Arenal, and Trapp Family Lodge in Monteverde, offering a mix of modern amenities and natural surroundings.
Check out our Q&As
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including turtles, sloths, iguanas, monkeys, birds, frogs, and more. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is home to species such as the Jaguar, Ocelot, Baird's Tapir, Three-wattled Bellbird, Bare necked Umbrella bird, and the magnificent Quetzal.
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Will there be a guide with us throughout the tour?
Local guides will be available at various points during the tour, especially in National Parks. However, there is not one guide escorting you throughout the entire trip.
What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided boat tour along the canals of Tortuguero National Park, a visit to the village in Tortuguero, a scenic boat and bus transfer to Arenal, a hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and an adventure on the Sky Walk & Tram.
Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the trip.
What should I carry in my daypack during the tour?
In your daypack, you should carry a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables, and personal items such as sunscreen and lip balm.
What level of fitness is required for this tour?
The tour is suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health. It involves little extended activity, but participants should be capable of carrying their own luggage and may engage in extended walking if desired.
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Reviews from travellers on this tour
M. Perlman(Florida, USA)
Best of Costa Rica
16 Jan 2019
Great way to travel - great price, easy, relaxed travel with everything taken care of, super enjoyable.
Leonie Keogh(Caringbah, NSW Australia)
Best of Costa Rica
27 Jun 2023
We had the best time on our Costa Rica trip. I was worried about the coordination, but all went smoothly. The communication was fantastic and and when little things happened they were always available on Whatsapp for updates and reassurance. They were very flexible when I wanted to change things slightly at the last minute towards the end of the trip. I would highly recommend this company.
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I. Lindsay(NSW, Australia)
Best of Costa Rica
15 May 2019
The Best of Costa Rica was a great overview of some of the country's highlights with accommodation and travel organised for you and the freedom to add destinations if wished.
Susan Eason(Frenchs Forest, NSW Australia)
Best of Costa Rica
28 Feb 2023
The first half of the tour was excellent (Tortuguero). The Arenal component was just an overnight hotel stay of minimal value. The Monteverde segment was good, however, the hotel was the furthest point from the town so we only saw things through organised tours
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David Le Ban(Frenchs Forest, NSW Australia)
Best of Costa Rica
11 Apr 2023
Tortuguero & Monteverde were fantastic. Many surprises including poison dart frog and a quetzal! Transport (shared) delays cost us time in Arenal (we only had 2 hours of daylight). Pre-book a 4WD and drive yourself
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of
400 GBPper person
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Best of Costa Rica
8 Days Starting and ending in San Jose, Costa Rica
Visiting:
San José, Tortuguero, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal, Monteverde, San Jose
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Have a one-in-a-lifetime experience in this unique place surrounded by a great variety of flora and fauna, and learn interesting<br/>details about the different species you might see on the way.<br/>Overnight: Laguna Lodge (or similar).","lat":"10.542484","lng":"-83.502355"},{"title":"Day 3: Tortuguero Canals","name":"Tortuguero National Park","description":"After breakfast, we enjoy a guided boat tour along the canals of Tortuguero National Park. A jungle adventure of a lifetime! We visit the canals within the National Park to discover a large variety of birds and receive detailed information on the flora and fauna of the area. We return to the lodge for lunch. The lodge will then schedule a tour to the village in the afternoon. This tour will provide detailed information on its history, culture and work in favour of conservation of the sea turtles and the flora and fauna in general.<br/>Overnight: Laguna Lodge (or similar).","lat":"10.448877","lng":"-83.506923"},{"title":"Day 4: Arenal","name":"Arenal","description":"After breakfast, enjoy a scenic boat and bus transfer back to the town of Guapiles right in time for lunch. Enjoy a delicious lunch before a shuttle bus transfer to the Arenal area. Arenal’s perfectly symmetrical shape makes it a sightseer’s dream, while its abundance of outdoor activities makes it an easy place to check things off your “must-do in Costa Rica” list. So visit one of the nicest volcanoes in Costa Rica, cloud forests, a lake world-famous for windsurfing and an incredibly diverse population of wildlife is just part of what you will find in this amazing area of Costa Rica. 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We then enjoy an afternoon adventure on the Sky Walk & Tram that will take you up to the Continental Divide and to one of the highest mountains in the area. Sky Walk is a guided tour, which combines trails and suspension bridges. The tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy the flora and fauna of the area, always joined by one of our specialist guides. Sky Tram is a guided tour where you can have the opportunity to observe the cloud forest outstanding biodiversity, the majestic Arenal Volcano and the Nicoya Gulf.<br/>Overnight: Trapp Family Lodge (or similar).","lat":"10.297332","lng":"-84.82551"},{"title":"Day 7: Return to San Jose","name":"San Jose","description":"This morning is at your own leisure. In the afternoon return to San Jose on your shuttle transfer. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure to explore San Jose. <br/>Overnight at Park Inn Hotel (or similar).","lat":"9.928069","lng":"-84.090725"},{"title":"Day 8: Trip concludes in San Jose","name":"San Jose","description":"After breakfast there will be a group transfer to the airport.","lat":"9.928069","lng":"-84.090725"}]
