Natural Wonders of Costa Rica - a wildlife haven

Day 1 - UK - San Jose

Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for the flight to San Jose. On arrival transfer the hotel in San Jose for two nights. The remainder of the day is free.

Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Sabana (4-star)

Day 2 - Tortuguero

Today, drive through the cloud-draped landscapes of Braulio Carrillo National Park en route to Tortuguero. Pass volcanic mountains, untouched rainforest and expansive banana plantations, the scenery shifts dramatically. Later, travel by boat through the Tortuguero Canals, weaving along narrow waterways rich with unusual plant and animal life. Arrive at our the-lodge, set among rivers, lakes, wetlands and lush jungle. Later, explore Tortuguero village and visit the Turtle Preservation Centre. Turtle nesting season usually runs from July to October, with hatching from September to December, so we may be lucky enough to spot them.

Laguna Lodge, Tortuguero (3-star)

Day 3 - Tortuguero National Park

Begin the day exploring the remarkable Tortuguero Canals. This unique network of natural and man-made waterways supports an extraordinary range of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, sloths and toucans, alongside a vivid display of orchids. The afternoon is free. You may choose to relax at the eco-lodge or join a guided walk to discover more of this richly diverse environment.

Laguna Lodge, Tortuguero (3-star)

Day 4 - Arenal

This morning, leave the lodge by boat before continuing by coach through the San Carlos plains. This fertile region forms the agricultural heart of Costa Rica, dotted with small farms and livestock holdings. Arrive in Arenal, dominated by its iconic volcano.

The Tilajari Resort Hotel, Arenal (4-star)

Day 5 - Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge

Travel past local communities on the way to the small village of Los Chiles, the gateway to the Río Frío and the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. From here, board a boat for a floating safari through rainforest and pastureland. Caño Negro ranks among Costa Rica’s most biologically diverse reserves. Glide along the waterways and look out for resident and migratory birds such as roseate spoonbills, green-backed herons and wood storks, as well as monkeys, sloths, ocelots and more.

The Tilajari Resort Hotel, Arenal (4-star)

Day 6 - Monteverde

This morning, depart Arenal for Monteverde, perched along the continental divide at around 5,000 feet above sea level. Visit the Butterfly Gardens to observe and learn about these delicate creatures before enjoying free time to explore independently.

Sibu Lodge (4-star)

Day 7 - Monteverde

Today is free to relax or explore at own pace. Alternatively, choose an optional excursion into the cloud forest canopy. A Sky Walk of suspension bridges and forest trails reveals the different layers of the ecosystem and offers a closer look at how the forest thrives.

Sibu Lodge (4-star)

Day 8 - Cloud Forest - San Jose

This morning, walk through a private cloud forest reserve to observe its diverse plant and animal life. This area offers one of the best chances to spot the vividly coloured quetzal. Leave the cloud forest behind and return to San José, stopping en route in the picturesque town of Sarchí, known for its brightly painted traditional oxcarts.

Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Sabana (4-star)

Day 9 - San Jose

This morning, explore Costa Rica’s cosmopolitan capital on a guided city tour. Travel through both business and residential neighbourhoods, gaining insight into the city’s diverse and attractive architecture. Along the way, admire elegant mansions, many now home to stylish museums and galleries, and see the bright yellow turrets of Bellavista Fortress, where bullet marks still bear witness to Costa Rica’s past; today, the building houses the National Museum. In the heart of the city, visit the National Theatre. You may find its appearance familiar – especially if you’ve visited Paris. Completed in 1897, the theatre takes inspiration from the Paris Opera House. Please be advised that the Central Market is closed on Sundays, and if your city tour falls on a Sunday, the Central market will be replaced by a curated cultural experience within San José instead.

Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Sabana (4-star)

Day 10 - San Jose - In flight

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Day 11 - UK

Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.