Upon your arrival at the airport and after passing through immigration and customs go to the exit of the airport terminal, look for a travel representative who will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name on it.
He/she will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Your driver will provide you with the travel letter for your services, you can review it with your guide during the orientation briefing early this evening in the hotel.
When preparing to leave home to the airport, please check that you are not leaving anything important behind, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Private arrival transfer San José Intl. Airport (SJO)
Orientation briefing 06:00pm.
One night lodging at Hotel Bougainvillea, breakfast and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Caribbean Bound – Lirio Lodge & Boca Pacuare Reserve
Experience Coastal Magic
Trek: Scenic drive to the Caribbean lowlands, followed by a boat transfer
Highlights: Explore the lush waterways of the Boca Pacuare Reserve and unwind at Lirio Lodge.
After a hearty breakfast and Costa Rican coffee, journey east through the stunning Braulio Carrillo National Park. Marvel at rugged mountains, dormant volcanoes, and lush rainforests before descending to the Caribbean lowlands. Board a boat at Muelle Goshen to reach your rainforest lodge. As you glide through emerald waterways, spot wildlife and soak in the magic of Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystem.
At Lirio Lodge, rustic charm meets comfort, offering an unforgettable introduction to the Caribbean region, creating an inviting retreat in the heart of nature. Guests can enjoy delicious cuisine and impeccably maintained, cozy rooms that enhance the overall experience. With the guidance of local experts, you’ll have the chance to explore the captivating Caribbean beaches under the starlit sky—an unforgettable experience, especially during the sea turtle nesting season (March to September), when you may witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Wear: comfortable clothing, sneakers or hiking shoes (no sandals or Tevas)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Nine days of bilingual naturalist guide (day 2 - 10)
Private land transfer from your hotel in San Jose to Goshen Dock.
Shared boat transfer from Goshen Dock to Barra Pacuare
Pacuare Reserve Hike
One night lodging Lirio Lodge, lunch, dinner, breakfast and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Cabecar Indian Reservation & Pacuare River
A journey to the unknown
Trek: Linda Vista to Tsiobata Indian Territory and Pacuare River (7–8 km, rainforest trails with steep and muddy sections).
Highlights: Discover indigenous Cabecar traditions, cross the Pacuare River by cable car, and immerse yourself in untouched rainforest landscapes.
Start your day with the natural symphony of howler monkeys and tropical birds outside your room. After a hearty breakfast, embark on an early boat transfer back to Goshen Dock, followed by a scenic bus ride to Linda Vista in Turrialba, the starting point of an unforgettable trek. Along the way, your local guide will introduce you to the unique “lengua Cabecar,” offering insights into the culture and traditions of this indigenous group.
This trek takes you through hidden parts of Costa Rica, rarely seen by locals or visitors. Wander through the Tsiobata Cabecar village, marvel at traditional huts, and admire the towering rainforest trees. Cross the Pacuare River in a thrilling cable car ride, taking in the lush diversity of the surrounding jungle, where large morpho butterflies accompany you along the trail.
As the forest gives way to rural farmland, you’ll encounter banana, cassava, and corn fields, along with pigs and chickens raised by local farmers. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe native farming practices and engage with the community. The trek concludes at your river lodge, nestled along the banks of the majestic Pacuare River—a serene and picturesque spot to rest and reflect on the day’s adventure.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Wear: comfortable clothing, sneakers or hiking shoes (no sandals or Tevas)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Private boat transfer Barra Pacuare to Goshen Dock.
One night lodging Ave Sol River Lodge, breakfast, dinner and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Thrils on the Pacuare River
Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Activity: Rafting Pacuare River (19 miles, Class III-IV rapids).
Highlights: Pristine rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and world class III-IV rapids.
Trade your hiking boots for a paddle as you take on the world-famous Pacuare River’s Class III-IV rapids. Today offers a well-deserved break for your legs as you switch gears to explore Costa Rica from the water. After breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating day surrounded by some of the country’s most pristine rainforest. Following a comprehensive safety briefing, gear up with state-of-the-art rafting equipment and set off on a thrilling 19-mile journey down the legendary Pacuare River. Navigate world-class Class III-IV rapids as you marvel at the breathtaking scenery of cascading waterfalls, lush jungle, and vibrant wildlife. Midway through the adventure, enjoy a delicious riverside picnic to recharge.
At the rafting take-out near Siquirres, a land transfer will bring you to the verdant Turrialba Valley, renowned for its lush agricultural landscapes and the commanding presence of Turrialba Volcano. Your accommodation tonight is the elegant Casa Turire, a charming hacienda nestled amidst tranquil farmland on the shores of La Angostura Lake. Here, you can stroll through vibrant gardens alive with tropical birds, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of this idyllic setting.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Bring:
- Rubber-soled shoes that can get wet (Tevas, tennis shoes, booties or similar).
- Swimsuit / swim trunks.
- T-shirt and shorts of a quick-drying material. Long sleeve t-shirts are very useful if you get cold easily on the water or want more sun protection.
- Water-resistant sunscreen lotion (SPF 15 or higher).
- Croakies or straps to secure glasses.
- Change of clothes, including shoes, for after your tour.
- Towel for changing/showers after the trip.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Rafting equipment and professional guides.
One night lodging at Hotel Casa Turire, breakfast, dinner and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
El Humo to Tapanti National Park
From Farms to Cloud Forests
Trek: El Humo to Tapanti (10 km, gravel roads, stream crossings, and rolling terrain).
Highlights: Coffee fields, cloud forest birds, and breathtaking valley views.
Your day begins with a transfer to the charming village of El Humo, where your trek kicks off amidst picturesque coffee and sugarcane fields. The trail transitions to secondary gravel roads with gentle ascents and descents, punctuated by small stream crossings. The first leg of the journey winds through rural ranchlands, providing an authentic glimpse into the agricultural heart of Costa Rica.
As you continue, the path ascends from the rainforest lowlands to the highlands, where the mystical cloud forest of Tapanti National Park awaits. Along the way, take in sweeping views of the cordilleras, which are nothing short of breathtaking. This part of the trek also offers your first chance to spot emblematic cloud forest birds, such as colorful tanagers and hummingbirds. Along the way, enjoy conversations with local “campesinos” who have cultivated coffee in these mountains for generations, adding a cultural touch to your adventure.
The trek concludes with a steep descent into the stunning Orosi Valley, where panoramic views of the lush landscape unfold before you. At the park's entrance, you’ll be picked up and whisked away to a well-earned lunch in a serene setting. Your day ends at the beautiful Hotel La Casona del Cafetal, a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature, a perfect place to relax and recharge.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Wear: comfortable clothing, sneakers or hiking shoes (no sandals or Tevas)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
One night lodge Hotel La Casona del Cafetal, breakfast, dinner and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Cloud Forest Wonders in Muñeco Valley
Ascend to the Highlands
Trek: Muñeco to Palo Verde (8 km, challenging mountain trails along secondary roads).
Highlights: Orchids, towering oaks, and a chance to spot the elusive quetzal.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before a scenic drive to the quaint village of Muñeco de Navarro, the starting point for today’s trek. As you leave the farming roads behind, the trail immerses you in the magnificence of the cloud forest. Marvel at the vibrant biodiversity: mushrooms sprouting along the path, colorful flowers, tropical birds, and towering old-growth trees dominating the canopy.
Beginning at an elevation of 5,000 feet, your journey climbs to 6,500 feet, revealing cooler temperatures and distinct flora. Along the way, you'll notice crops like coffee thriving in the highland climate, as well as epiphytes such as “Barba de Viejo” (Old Man’s Beard) and delicate orchids adorning the branches. The trail offers unparalleled mountain views and is a haven for bird enthusiasts—listen closely for the calls of bellbirds and keep your eyes peeled for the dazzling quetzal.
At the end of the trail, you’ll arrive at Palo Verde del Guarco, a picturesque region nestled in the cooler cloud forest belt of the Talamanca. To celebrate your accomplishment, your guide will serve a freshly prepared mountainside lunch featuring local flavors and incredible panoramic views. Be enchanted by the variety of hummingbirds flitting around as you relax and savor your meal. Afterward, a short drive will take you to your cozy mountain lodge for a well-earned rest.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Wear: comfortable clothing, sneakers or hiking shoes (no sandals or Tevas)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
One night lodging Paraiso del Quetzal, breakfast, dinner and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Paraíso del Quetzal to Copey de Dota
A Sacred Trek
Trek: Paraíso to Copey (10 km, steep ascent and descent cloud forest trails and coffee farms).
Highlights: Resplendent Quetzal sightings, bamboo groves, and Costa Rica’s coffee belt.
Start your morning with a pre-breakfast outing to search for the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, a bird considered sacred by ancient indigenous cultures. Guided by a local expert, you’ll also encounter other fascinating avian species that inhabit the misty cloud forest. This serene and magical experience sets the tone for an unforgettable day.
After breakfast, begin your trek toward the Pacific side of Costa Rica. As you descend from 2,600 meters to 1,800 meters, you’ll notice a dramatic shift in the weather, with temperatures becoming noticeably warmer. The hike takes you through the highlands of Cerro de la Muerte, where the vegetation is distinctly different from lower altitudes. Towering oak trees dominate the forest, alongside bamboo thickets, lush ferns, bromeliads, and avocado trees.
As you move into the mid-elevations, the landscape transitions into the iconic coffee belt, where Costa Rica’s renowned coffee thrives. The fertile soil and temperate climate of this region create the perfect environment for some of the world’s best coffee plantations, offering a unique glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the area. Enjoy the changing scenery and the rich diversity of flora as you continue your descent into Copey.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Wear: comfortable clothing, sneakers or hiking shoes (no sandals or Tevas)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
One night lodging Toucanet Lodge, breakfast, dinner and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Napoles to Esquipulas – Journey to the Pacific Coast
Final Steps, Lasting Memories
Trek: Napoles to Esquipulas (10 km, mostly downhill).
Highlights: Meet local farmers, taste traditional cuisine, and savor Pacific views.
Today marks the final hike of your unforgettable Costa Rica adventure. After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the charming village of Napoles, where your journey begins. As you make your way step by step, you’ll feel the warm embrace of the Pacific air, a clear sign you’re nearing the coast.
A highlight of the day is a visit with Don Lilo and his wife, Maria, at their traditional coffee farm and trapiche (old-school sugarcane mill). They’ll warmly welcome you into their home, where you can enjoy freshly brewed, locally grown coffee paired with a delicious handmade tortilla. Their hospitality and stories offer a glimpse into the simple, rich traditions of rural Costa Rica.
The trail takes you through the foothills of Esquipulas and into the lush rainforest lowlands near Quepos. Along the way, savor spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean framed by sprawling coffee groves and majestic mountain landscapes. Reflect on the incredible diversity of landscapes, plants, and wildlife you’ve experienced throughout the week.
As your hike concludes, a transfer near Naranjito will bring you to the coast, but not before a celebratory stop at a small local bar for a “merecida cerveza” – a well-deserved beer! Wrap up your journey with two relaxing nights at the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio, where the vibrant tropical ambiance is the perfect way to end your Costa Rican adventure.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Wear: comfortable clothing, sneakers or hiking shoes (no sandals or Tevas)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Three nights lodging Hotel Costa Verde breakfast and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Dinner not included.
Highlights: Learn about the park’s distinctive rainforest flora and wildlife with a naturalist. A paradise to find sloths and monkeys. Some of the best beaches in Costa Rica. Amazing lookouts!
Today includes a half day guided nature walk in Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the natural jewels of Costa Rica. Look for the abundant wildlife including monkeys and sloths and take in the views from scenic overlooks. Cap it off with time to enjoy the gorgeous beaches and warm pacific waters.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
In your day pack carry your hat, sunblock, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, camera, light jacket and water bottle. Check with your guide to see if you need any particular footwear or a change of clothes for next day’s activities.
Wear: comfortable clothing, sneakers or hiking shoes (no sandals or Tevas)
Manuel Antonio National Park Walk
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Entrance fee to: Manuel Antonio National Park.
Accommodations at Hotel Costa Verde breakfast and taxes included.
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
Private land transfer Manuel Antonio to San Jose Intl. Airport, approx., 3 - 3.5 hours drive. Airlines recommend being at the airport 3 hours before flight departure.
We highly recommend you to book your departure flight from San Jose Intl. Airport in Costa Rica (SJO), anytime after 0200pm.
When preparing to leave for your next destination please check that you are not leaving anything behind in your room, especially your passports , medicines, prescriptions, plug in chargers, etc.
Breakfast.
Private land transfer Hotel Costa Verde in Manuel Antonio to San Jose Intl. Airport (SJO)
Incidentals like: laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, spa services, meals and tours not specified on the itinerary.
