Wild Costa Rica

Day 1 - San Jose

Join your tour group at the hotel.

Day 2 - San Jose

Our tour of San Jose takes us through both residential and business areas of the city, including Plaza de la Democracia (Democracy Square) and the National Park. We'll also see the central market, cathedral, Supreme Court of Justice, and University of Costa Rica. Entrance is included to the National Opera House Theatre and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. The afternoon is free to explore further.

Day 3 - Tortuguero

Costa Rica wildlife holidays are all about seeing incredible creatures in their natural habitat. After a drive through banana plantations to the Tortuguero Canals, we'll board a boat, looking out for sea turtles, crocodiles and other inhabitants on the riverbanks as we sail along these natural waterways. We arrive at our lodge for lunch, then take a short boat ride to Tortuguero village. Glimpse rural life as we walk through the village to the Turtle Preservation Centre. Exhibitions focus on the organisation’s work to protect green, hawksbill and leatherback sea turtles, which lay their eggs on the village beach. Turtle nesting season is usually July to October and they hatch from September to December, so we may catch a glimpse if we’re lucky.

Day 4 - Tortuguero National Park

This morning we take to the canals to view the 50 shades of foliage within the tropical rainforest. Hopefully you’ll also see monkeys, toucans, green macaws or caimans. This afternoon is at leisure to take a guided hike along the beach, or through acres of trees and botanical gardens. Or relax by the hotel’s pool.

Day 5 - Sarapiqui

After breakfast we’ll journey by boat and coach to our lodge in Sarapiqui, stopping for lunch on the way. Relax before we take a 4km guided night walk at La Tirimbina Biological Reserve, within walking distance of our lodge. At night, the tropical forest comes alive with an orchestra of nocturnal birds, insects and frogs. Your guide will help you look for sloths, porcupines and more.

Day 6 - Sarapiqui

Today is free to learn about indigenous cultures at the ecolodge or follow a nature trail. Alternatively, choose an optional excursion to a traditional cacao or pineapple plantation, or learn about dozens of native bat species at La Tirimbina Biological Reserve.

Day 7 - Arenal

We journey to Arenal National Park to walk along the base of the active volcano, with views of lava that flowed in recent decades. Later, we head to the nearby hot springs to relax in mineral-rich water naturally heated by volcanic rocks, before a traditional Costa Rican dinner.

Day 8 - Monteverde

As we cross Lake Arenal, keep your camera ready for views of Arenal volcano. On reaching Rancho Heliconia, learn about Costa Rican culture, try home-grown coffee and enjoy a traditional home-made lunch. We then plant a native tree to help reforest the area. In Monteverde, we follow a guide into the Curi-Cancha Cloud Forest Reserve for a night walk. Watch out for armadillo, coati, two-toed sloth and over 200 bird species.

Day 9 - Monteverde

We take a walk at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, with its unique ecosystems and lots of endemic species, before visiting Monteverde Butterfly Gardens to observe these beautiful insects. Then, maybe join an optional excursion in the forest canopy.

Day 10 - Monteverde - Tarcoles

Spend this morning in the Monteverde Orchid Garden - more than 450 types grow here. Then head to Tarcoles for a crocodile safari, after which we regroup for a late lunch. Birds, iguanas and basilisks might also be spotted. We’ll stay for two nights in Tarcoles.

Day 11 - Carara National Park

Visit Carara National Park, populated by over 400 bird species of every shape and colour, like the scarlet macaw and collared aracari. The afternoon is at leisure - maybe spend it on the sweeping Pacific Coast beach.

Day 12 - Manuel Antonio National Park - Dominical

Our exploration continues at Manuel Antonio National Park. With luck, on a leisurely hike, you’ll watch sloths and monkeys in the trees, anteaters rummaging on the ground, and various birds circling above. Please note: A limited number of visitors can access Manuel Antonio National Park each day and entrance isn’t guaranteed. We’ll start early to ensure our best chances, however if we’re unable to gain entry, an alternative and similar excursion will be arranged.

Day 13 - Corcovado National Park

Rise early for a boat trip down the Pacific Coast to Corcovado National Park. We spend the morning hiking amongst the beautiful flora with the hope of spotting howler, spider and white-faced monkeys amongst the ancient trees. After another short boat ride, you’ll be rewarded with lunch, before taking the boat back along the coast and returning to your hotel.

Day 14 - San Gerardo de Dota

Drive to San Gerardo de Dota, a favourite place for birdwatchers hoping to spot the resplendent quetzal. As we journey through the highlands, we’ll notice the transition from lowland rainforest to misty cloud forest, as lush vegetation and abundant wildlife gives way to an enchanted landscape cloaked in mist, moss-covered trees and vibrant ferns. We’ll stop en route for a guided short walk, pointing out the beautiful flora and fauna found in this part of Costa Rica. We’ll continue our exploration with a birdspotting tour in the area, then continue to our lodge.

Day 15 - San Gerardo de Dota

There's one last opportunity to search for the quetzal with a walk on the scenic trails around Mirador de Quetzales and a visit to their hummingbird garden. Afterwards, say goodbye to your tour group for your onward travel.