The Wild Heart of Costa Rica

Transfer from San Jose to San Gerardo de Dota

After a leisurely breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel lobby and privately transferred approx. 2 hours south to San Gerardo de Dota.

Introducing San Gerardo de Dota

Three hours south of San Jose is the sleepy hamlet of San Gerardo de Dota. Travellers are attracted to this quaint village for its natural beauty, where they can hike through pristine wilderness and enjoy some of the region’s most predominant flora and fauna, particularly the bird life. This is a much quieter alternative to other cloudforest areas in Costa Rica, and offers year-round sightings of the resplendent quetzal.

Regular Quetzales Tour

Pickup from hotel this morning.

This activity will offer you the chance to find and observe the spectacular Quetzal. The Aztecs believed the Resplendent Quetzal was the representation of “Quetzalcóatl”, which was their supreme god.

One of the expert guides will take you to the spots where the quetzal feeds on “aguacatillo” trees, which is their favourite fruit. One only needs a few seconds to admire the quetzal before understanding why it is considered one of the most beautiful species on the American continent. The guide will share important facts about their natural history and behaviour, so that you can learn all there is to know about this amazing species. Return to the hotel for breakfast.

Duration: 2 hours approximately.
Note: This tour operates on a small group basis with 10 guests per guide. There may be more than one group.

Birdwatching at Trogon Lodge

Pickup from hotel this morning.

San Gerardo de Dota offers excellent opportunities for bird watching. More than 170 bird species have been identified in the area so far, including Tanagers, Black Guans, Flycatchers, Hummingbirds (Colibri), Trogons, Emerald Toucanet and Sparrows, among many others.

Transfer from San Gerardo de Dota to Playa Nicuesa

This morning, a private transfer will take you around 4.5 hours to Golfito where you'll board a shared boat for the 30 minute scenic transfer to Playa Nicuesa Lodge on the Osa Peninsula. Sit back and relax as you take in the magnificent coastline with tropical vegetation; you may even be welcomed by the occasional school of dolphins!

Your board basis includes:

Three guided eco-sport activities and Nature/Wildlife tours. Each day choose one from the following activities (please coordinate the tour and pick up times at the lodge):
- Golfo Dulce Snorkeling/Kayak Tour
- Rio Esquinas Mangrove Jungle River Tour (kayak or motor boat)
- Rainforest Waterfall Hike
- Night Hike
- Golfo Dulce Paddle Board Tour
- Golfo Dulce Snorkeling Boat Tour
- Golfo Dulce In-Shore Fishing Tour – 2 hour tour
- The package also includes Unlimited Self-Guided Hiking on Lodge Preserve Trails, Unlimited Use of Kayaks, Snorkeling and Fishing Equipment for Self-Guided Activities.

Introducing the Osa Peninsula

Unspoiled and remote, the Osa Peninsula is one of the most biologically diverse natural reserves in the world, with pristine expanses of rainforest alive with rare animals and tropical birds, as well as some stunning palm-lined Pacific beaches. Corcovado National Park is the last remaining Pacific lowland rainforest of sustainable size in Central America. There are thirteen separate ecosystems, almost one hundred species of tree and nearly four hundred species of birds, thus it is no wonder that Corcovado has been called "the most biologically intense place on earth". Experience the truly unspoiled terrain of this tropical wonderland with activities which provide a magical insight to this remote region. Activities and excursions are adapted to suit all ages, fitness levels and interests.

Included Activities at Playa Nicuesa Lodge

Over the next two days, immerse yourself in the beauty and adventure that Playa Nicuesa Lodge has to offer. Engage in a variety of included activities and tours that allow you to explore the stunning natural surroundings, from guided hikes through lush rainforests to snorkelling in vibrant marine ecosystems. Each day presents new opportunities for discovery, whether you’re spotting exotic wildlife, kayaking along serene coastlines, or unwinding on pristine beaches. With expert guides to enrich your experience, you’ll create unforgettable memories while fully embracing the unique charm of this remarkable destination.

Transfer from Playa Nicuesa Lodge to Puerto Jimenez

Departure from Playa Nicuesa this morning.

Transfer by boat back across the mesmerising Golfo Dulce to Puerto Jimenez for the scheduled flight to San Jose. The transfer takes around 30-40 minutes.

Note - Luggage allowance is restricted to 40 lbs / 18kgs per person for the main bag and 10 lbs / 4.5 kgs for the hand luggage.

Transfer from San Jose to Arenal

On arrival at San Jose Airport, you will be met and privately transferred to your hotel in Arenal; a drive of approx. 3 hours. (This service is on a private basis.)

Introducing Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal is a spectacular region, named for the huge Arenal volcano which dominates the skyline on a clear day. The area is popular among adventurous travellers as the volcanoes and rainforests provide a range of exhilarating activities, from ziplining to trekking. Outside of the main tourist area lie acres of rolling countryside.

Arenal Volcano by the Lake - Small Group Basis

Pickup from your hotel this morning.

Today begins with a 20-45 minute journey to one of three sections of the National Park: Peninsula, Heliconia, or El Silencio. Upon arrival, you'll embark on a 1-1.5 km walk, passing observation bays with stunning views of Lake Arenal and the Tilarán Volcanic Range, weather permitting.

After the walk, a boat tour along the forested shores of Lake Arenal offers a chance to spot wildlife and capture scenic volcano photos if conditions are clear. You'll then cross the lake to El Castillo, where a local family business will welcome you with a snack of traditional food and drinks such as "café chorreado," "agua dulce," or natural juice, all while enjoying lake views.

Following this break, you'll board the boat again to return to the pier, where a minibus will take you back to your hotel.

Includes: Includes: Transportation, bilingual naturalist guide, National Park entrance fee, and snacks.

What to bring: Hiking or tennis shoes, comfortable clothes, a poncho or rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, money for snacks, souvenirs, or tips, and swimwear and towel (if adding hot springs).

Arenal Safari River Float

Pickup from your hotel this morning. You will be driven to the put-in of the Peñas Blancas river, to embark upon a river safari adventure. Board an inflatable raft and begin your relaxing cruise down the river. The forest along the river is known as the gallery forest, and it is a rich ecosystem where you can find different species of plants and animals, including monkeys, sloths, lizards, caimans, bats, turtles, lot of aquatic birds, among others. Your guide will be on hand sharing interesting snippets about the natural history of the flora and fauna.

After two hours of cruising on the river, you will be transferred to your hotel.

This tour operates on a small group basis.

It is highly recommended to wear quick dry clothing, and to bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, water shoes (no flip flops), insect repellent, camera, and binoculars.

Arenal Hanging Bridges Park: Natural History Walk

Pick-up from hotel lobby this morning.

Located within the bird migration corridor between North and South America, the trails and hanging bridges of this project will bring you as close as possible to the birds, plants and lush vegetation. The walk is a fun and educational activity to learn more about the forest and the local environment and enjoy close contact with nature. Follow three kilometres of nature trails and immerse yourself in the diverse fauna and flora with the help of your naturalist guide.

This activity operates on a small group basis.

Includes: Transfers, guide, and hanging bridges entrance fee.

What to bring/wear? Comfortable clothing, long pants, hiking closed shoes (no sandals), sweater, raincoat (especially during the green season), camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Transfer from Arenal to Chayote Lodge

Pickup from the hotel lobby this afternoon. Private transfer, approx. 2 hours, 15 mins to Chayote Lodge.

Introducing Naranjo

Naranjo is a charming town in the province of Alajuela, located about 30 km northwest of San José. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rolling coffee plantations, and cool mountain climate, Naranjo is a key destination on Costa Rica’s coffee route. The town boasts a rich agricultural heritage, with coffee production playing a central role in its economy and culture. Visitors can explore local coffee farms, admire the stunning Basilica of Naranjo, and enjoy outdoor activities in nearby national parks and cloud forests. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for travellers exploring the Central Valley region.

Naranjo Coffee and Town Experience - Group Basis

Pickup from hotel this morning.

Naranjo is a small town renowned for its award-winning coffee plantations, boasting over 200 years of coffee cultivation. The experience begins with the Espíritu Santo coffee tour, where visitors learn about the entire coffee-making process, from seed to cup, at a local cooperative farm. Next, we explore the Municipal Market, where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and other goods, with insights into how Costa Ricans use these ingredients at home. Lunch is enjoyed at the market before visiting the Basilica of the Lady of Mercy, rebuilt after earthquakes in the 1940s. On the return journey, we stop at a local bakery before enjoying a fresh cup of coffee at Don Carlos’s farm, served in the comfort of his home.

What to wear? Comfortable clothes and shoes, sunscreen, light jacket, insect repellent and camera.
What is included? Transportation, local guide, lunch and afternoon coffee.

Transfer from Hotel to San Jose Airport

Pickup from hotel this afternoon.

Please note that the check-out time at the hotel is 1pm. You can store your main luggage with concierge after this time and enjoy the facilities at the hotel.

Private transfer, approx. 1.5 hours to San Jose International Airport for your departure flight.