Pure Costa Rica

The adventure of a lifetime starts here! Once you've landed at the airport, we'll transfer you to the hotel. Enjoy some chill time before meeting up as a group for the first time in the evening.

Get to know San José better on our walking tour around the city with a local guide, as we visit the vibrant downtown and green parks. On the journey to La Fortuna, we'll make a special stop to see colourfully decorated Ox Carts. This evening is all yours to kick back and relax in La Fortuna, enjoying the hotel swimming pool and bright green nature.

Today we're heading deep into La Fortuna's rainforest for an unforgettable adventure... hanging bridges! There is no better way to immerse yourself in the jungle than by crossing through the treetops, with so much tropical wildlife waiting to be discovered. Later, we'll venture back into the jungle after dark on a night safari walk, led by an expert local guide.

This morning we'll visit a local farm in La Fortuna and meet the family who have lived here for generations. We'll see how they harvest the incredible variety of fruit and vegetables before transforming it into a mouthwatering lunch - cooked to perfection with colourful spices and freshly pickled produce. This afternoon, soak in the warm waters of a hot spring with tropical nature surrounding you.

As we leave La Fortuna behind, we'll first make a stop at a local Maleku house and gain rare insight into the Indigenous culture. Our next stop is home to the most magical waterfalls imaginable, filled with bright aqua pools, cascading streams and emerald flora. Later this afternoon, we'll arrive in Rincon de la Vieja: right next to one of Costa Rica's most beautiful national parks.

Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity on another level today, as we trek along the jungle trails and marvel at the mud pits. Expect towering waterfalls, dramatic volcanic vents and endless forest inside this awe-inspiring landscape. Explore for as long as you wish to, with the whole afternoon free for you to wander around the rainforest, enjoy the hotel's swimming pool or sign up for an exhilarating optional activity like ziplining!

After arriving in Samara, today is all yours to explore the wide stretches of white sand brushing against the sapphire ocean. Or how about some beach volleyball?

Learn to surf like a pro this morning, then experience the pure magic that the Guanacaste Province has to offer. Between the swaying palm trees, the sunkissed sand, the bright blue skies and calm waters, the Guanacaste Province is a fantasy come to life - with each beach offering something different to the next. Whether you're in the mood to unwind with a good book, play some football or go swimming, this is the dream setting to make all those travel plans happen.

Today's completely free for you to discover Samara at your own pace. Samara is made for lazy beach days, yet this gorgeous destination has so much more to offer beyond that. If you're in the mood for relaxation, then a zen yoga class could be your vibe. For something more active, a surfing class or sea kayaking with snorkelling included is an incredible choice. Whatever you get up to, there's no denying that the views here are the definition of paradise.

Enjoy one final morning unwinding on Samara's heavenly stretches on sand, before we head south for Esterillos after lunch. Along the way, we'll stop at Costa Rica's famous Crocodile Bridge, where you can marvel at these gigantic creatures in the river below. We'll take a scenic drive as part of our journey, stopping for dinner and a sunset view along the way.

Manuel Antonio is one of those rare places that offers it all to travellers, from alluring rainforests to glistening beaches and a beckoning ocean. It's practically made for days out hiking, snorkelling, or simply relaxing and taking in the mini world around you. Now's your chance to see howler monkeys and sloths hanging in the treetops or spot monkeys on the sand, as we search for wildlife. Today's an adventure you'll never forget!

Before arriving in San José, we will stop off for a Cacao making class, where we will discover how chocolate is created from bean to bar. Then get ready for some farewell drinks tonight.

And just like that, our amazing time together in Costa Rica has come to an end. Breakfast is included, and travellers are welcome to depart at any time. For any assistance in arranging return airport transfers or onward travel, your trip leader will be happy to help.

If you are interested in visiting Costa Rica and a few more destinations, then check out the 30-day and 40-day options for our Best of Central America and Epic Central America trips!