Costa Rica

13 Days - Classic Escorted Tours

In Costa Rica every road seems to lead to another waterfall, a coffee plantation, a volcano, a lush rainforest or a stunning tropical beach. Everywhere you look, you are greeted by smiling faces who are immensely proud to live in a country whose happy motto is ‘pura vida’ - pure life! Costa Rica was named as the ‘rich coast’ by Spanish conquistadors who, as always, hoped to find gold and silver. Ironically, the opposite was true – not only were there no precious metals of any description, but the impenetrable jungles and lack of local inhabitants made it virtually impossible to farm the land. This why Costa Rica is not superbly endowed with the huge cathedrals, grand architecture and all the trappings of colonial administration. The Costa Ricans, or Ticos, were not conquered like the Aztecs to the north or the Incas in Peru and the Spanish ruled in a more benevolent manner till 1821 when the country gained its independence. The long hoped-for riches finally came to pass when the country became the first one to export coffee directly to Europe and was also the first to farm and export bananas on a large scale. Nowadays, Costa Rica is one of the few counties in the world not to have any armed forces and is rated one of the happiest countries on the planet. Costa Rica has realised that its real riches come from its immensely fertile volcanic soils which have created a biodiversity of incredible range, variety and complexity – a veritable natural paradise! With more than 25% of the country designated as protected reserves or national parks, what can you expect to see here? One of its most well-known and likeable inhabitants is the three-toed sloth, but this is not even close to the tip of the iceberg. There are green iguanas, hundreds of varieties of brightly-coloured tree frogs, howler and capuchin monkeys, tapirs, elusive jaguars, toucans, scarlet macaws, hummingbirds a-plenty, crocodiles, leatherback turtles, whales – the list just goes on and on! One particularly extraordinary animal is the quetzal, the most breathtakingly stunning bird in Central America. Our tour starts from the country's capital of San José before striking out for the Tortuguero National Park on Costa Rica’s eastern Caribbean coast, a labyrinth of canals, rivers and lagoons covered in thick forest and mangroves. Tortuguero means ‘turtle catcher’ and the many species of turtles which lay their eggs on these beaches came close to extinction until the area was declared a national park. You can also expect to see caimans, several types of monkeys and a huge number of endemic and migratory bird species, including toucans, macaws and raptors. More rarely seen inhabitants include tapirs, jaguars and manatees. We continue cross-country towards the Arenal volcano. With a perfect cone, numerous hot springs and surrounded by its own national park, roughly half the species of Costa Rica can be found here. We'll take an easy walk along one of the many trails nearby and see some attractive views of the peak. From our comfortable base we will also visit the Caño Negro reserve, close to the border with Nicaragua. The main access route here is along the Rio Frio and the best way to spot wildlife is our boat safari which gives you uninterrupted views along its banks. More than 300 bird species have been identified here, including kingfishers, ibis, toucans, storks and even a type of vulture, plus you are also likely to see caimans and monkeys. Our next port of call is the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest, a unique ecosystem created by the warm Pacific winds being pushed up and condensing on the mountain slopes. The trees here are covered in mist and mossy vines, bromeliads, ferns and the greatest diversity of orchids on the planet. We explore via a system of hanging bridges so as to look down on the thick vegetation below. There's plenty of hummingbirds here and you may be lucky enough to spot a quetzal. You may also choose to experience the incredible thrill of zip-wiring through the forest - this is one of the best places in the country to try this (at extra charge). Our final stay for three nights is at a five-star resort in Guanacaste on the Pacific coast. Known for its beautiful palm-fringed beaches, this is the perfect spot to take some time off, relax, find a nice restaurant or bar and watch the sun slowly sink into the mighty Pacific Ocean. With the new direct flights from London Gatwick to San José, we are sure you will come back from this surprising, amazing country with a real burning desire to go back. Pura vida!

Highlights

From Emperor butterflies, toucans, the iridescent green plumage of the Quetzal to unique three-toed sloths, explore one of the most scenic and bio-diverse countries on the planet - now accessed by direct flights from the UK
Discover the unique eco-system along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coastline in Tortuguero National Park
Explore the area around the perfect cone of the still-active Arenal Volcano
Travel to the remote Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, renowned for its incredible birdlife
See the extraordinary Monteverde Cloud Forest from above on superb hanging bridges
Enjoy a fascinating tour of a coffee estate
Option to try out an exhilarating ‘zip-line’ tour through the rainforest
Stay for three nights at a five-star resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean
Stay in hand-picked accommodation rated three to five stars, with daily breakfast and five meals
The Signature Tour option includes all of the above as well as:
Experience an unforgettable evening of star gazing in the company of knowledgeable guides who will help you identify the shining constellations
Discover the fresh ingredients of Costa Rica and learn how to cook like a local before dining on more delicious island dishes prepared by the chef
Meet the team at a remarkable rescue centre and animal sanctuary. Get to know some of the injured creatures they care for, including endangered jaguars and pumas
Please note: For 2024, this tour is Signature as standard. Learn more.

Inclusions

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. 11 nights’ accommodation in three-star, four-star and five-star hotels; daily breakfast and five meals; scheduled flights to/from San Jose; all transfers; guided tours of Tortuguero, Caño Negro, walking tour at Arenal, Monteverde hanging bridges, coffee farm, Palo Verde national park; all local transport as described; hotel porterage of one item of luggage per person; the services of a Riviera Travel tour manager.

1

Arrive at the airport for your flight to San Jose. We arrive in the afternoon, with the remainder of the day at leisure.

2

After an early start, we leave the city behind, on our way to Tortuguero, on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, passing by coffee and banana plantations and small farming communities. We arrive at the dock where we transfer on to our boat for the final part of our journey through the complex maze of natural canals to our home for the next two nights, the Aninga, Evergreen or Pachira eco-lodges, on full board basis. After lunch we visit the nearby small picturesque town of Tortuguero and the Caribbean Conservation Corporation museum dedicated to studying the thousands of Atlantic Green, Hawksbill and Leatherback turtles who come to lay their eggs on the protected beaches here between July to October every year. As the sun sets and the sounds of the tropical forest fill the air, you may look forward to sampling some typical Costa Rican cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant. (B, L, D) Signature Experience: The natural surroundings of the lodge, away from the bright city lights, offers the perfect backdrop for star gazing and with its unique location, close to the equator, Costa Rica is one of the world’s best locations to view the northern and southern hemisphere constellations. This evening, join knowledgeable guides who will be on hand with telescopes to help us explore the astronomical wonders of the Southern Cross and the Milky Way

3

After breakfast we set off for a fascinating walk along one of the nature trails around our lodge. means ‘turtle catcher’ and the many species of turtles which lay their eggs on these beaches came close to extinction until the area was declared a national park. You can also expect to see caimans, several types of monkeys and a huge number of endemic and migratory bird species, including toucans, macaws and raptors. After some time to relax by the pool during the hottest part of the day, in the afternoon we continue our exploration by boat, along the lush green waterways of this unique eco-system. (B, L, D)

4

This morning we set off westwards through the centre of the country towards Arenal, famous for the perfect symmetrical cone of the Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica’s youngest volcano. After a stop for lunch we arrive in Arenal in the afternoon. (B, L, D)

5

Today we head north, close to the Nicaraguan border, to the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Here we embark on a boat to quietly float along the Frio River – your local guide will point out what’s considered to be some of the most abundant bird life in Costa Rica. More than 300 bird species have been identified here, including kingfishers, ibis, toucans, storks and even a type of vulture, plus you’re likely to see iguanas, caimans and numerous monkey species can also be spotted along the river banks. (B, L)

6

A day to take it easy at your hotel – after a sumptuous breakfast, settle down around the pool with its swim-up bar and wonderful views of the volcano. Just an easy walk around the grounds is sure to offer plenty of chances to spot some local wildlife. Tonight, why not enjoy an optional evening cooking class with dinner included. Signature Experience: Explore the authentic cuisine of Costa Rica with an enlightening and entertaining cooking class followed by dinner. Native to the tropical forests of Central and South America discover the uses of the Peach Palm Fruit (Bactris Costarricensis). With a diverse usage gain an insight into culinary customs and traditions as we prepare our flavoursome starter course. Our knowledgeable chef will then take over so we can sit back, relax and enjoy more of the delicious dishes that are on the menu this evening.

7

In the morning, embark on a walking tour in the foothills of Arena Volcano, enjoying more close-up scenic views of the volcano. We turn south today to drive towards the Monteverde Cloud Forest where we stay for two nights. Tonight, dinner is included. (B, D)

8

This stunning Cloud Forest boasts an extraordinarily diverse ecosystem, being home to 120 species of reptiles and amphibians, 130 species of mammals and an astounding 500 species of birds, not to mention more than 3,000 species of plants. Possibly the best way to enjoy all this is from above: the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges are a system of walkways that offer a unique view into the jungle from up to 180 feet above the forest floor. If you’re feeling really adventurous (and at extra charge), this is where you can also enjoy what is considered to be the country’s best ‘zip-line’ experience. This afternoon enjoy lunch and a tour of a traditional Costa Rican coffee farm where you’ll see how one of Costa Rica’s top exports is grown in this tropical region and its importance in the development of the country as a whole. Your evening is free to try out one of the many excellent local restaurants, cafés and bars. (B, L)

9

This morning we drive towards the shores of the striking Pacific coast to the region of Guanacaste, one of the most beautiful places in the country, with an exotic combination of exquisite beaches and an exuberant tropical forest. On the way, we stop at the bustling town of Liberia, for some free time to have a stroll and maybe sample some of the local cuisine. Our luxurious, five-star hotel for three nights is close to the charming seaside resort of Tamarindo, where it’s not unusual to see iguanas and white-faced monkeys on the beach! This evening we’ll take you into Tamarindo where there’s plenty of great food, music and friendly bars to choose from. Signature Experience: Meet the remarkable creatures and the extraordinary team who look after them at Las Pumas Wildlife Rescue Centre & Sanctuary. Of the six species of wild cat found in Costa Rica, we can see five here including the jaguar and the puma. Explore the wonderful surroundings where injured animals are cared for, with an aim to rehabilitate and release them back into their natural habitat, which is not always possible. In the company of a local naturalist,we visit the animals who now call the sanctuary their home.

10

Costa Rica’s real riches come from its immensely fertile volcanic soils which have created a biodiversity of incredible range, variety and complexity – a veritable natural paradise! In fact, more than 25% of the country is designated as protected reserves or national parks. Today, we take a guided tour to Palo Verde National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most popular conservation areas. Its wide range of land and marine biodiversity make this one of Central America’s most impressive natural habitats. Your local guide will lead you by boat through the waterways of this tropical paradise to discover a unique combination of thick coastal forest, rivers and mangrove lagoons which are home to more than 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. One of its most well-known and likeable inhabitants is the three-toed sloth, but this is not even close to the tip of the iceberg. You’ll also observe several species of monkeys, green iguanas, hundreds of varieties of brightly coloured tree frogs, hummingbirds a-plenty, scarlet macaws, blue-winged teal – the list just goes on and on! (B, L)

11

Enjoy all the pleasures of your final day in your luxury hotel. You can take it easy on the beach or beside the hotel pool, with a piña colada or daiquiri in hand, play a round of golf, try out the spa or perhaps join the optional sunset cruise along the coast with picturesque views and time for snorkelling. We say farewell to this incredible country with an included dinner in Tamarindo. (B, D)

12

Travel back to San José airport for your overnight direct flight home. (B)

13

We arrive home this morning.

4* Crowne Plaza Corobici - San José

About the hotel This four-star hotel, perfectly situated close to the heart of downtown San José, is a great base for your first night in Costa Rica. The hotel’s Tucan restaurant serves international cuisine, with both buffet and a-la-carte options. There’s also the popular Fuji restaurant, serving Japanese dishes. The hotel features a large outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre plus the relaxing lobby bar to enjoy a drink in the evening. All of the spacious and comfortable rooms are air-conditioned and include a bath or shower, hairdryer, safe, minibar, TV, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi. Location The hotel is ideally located in the city centre, just across the way from La Sabana Metropolitan Park. Downtown San Jose is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel.

4* El Establo Mountain Hotel – Monteverde

About the hotel Nestled on a hillside in the mountains of Monteverde, the hotel offers unbeatable views of the surrounding area. There are two restaurants; the informal Las Riendas, serving selection of both buffet and a-la-carte style Costa Rican and international dishes, and the Laggus Restaurant which offers a more fine-dining experience. You can take in the wonderful mountain views in the lounge and bar area. Relax in the semi-outdoor pool or wander the peaceful walking train at the top end of the hotel grounds. All rooms boast a private balcony or terrace. They are spacious and have a bath, separate shower, hairdryer, safe, minibar, TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Due to the cooler altitude here, there’s no need for air-conditioning. Some rooms are a steep walk from the two restaurants and reception, but the hotel provides frequent and on-demand shuttles to ferry guests around this extensive 123-acre property. Location The hotel is set on a hillside location in Monteverde and offers amazing views across the thickly wooded hills – on a clear day, you may even see the Pacific!

4* Hotel Arenal Manoa – Arenal

About the hotel This lovely four-star hotel has spectacular views of the Arenal volcano and is surrounded by beautiful, green gardens, forest and fields and is part of the original Manoa dairy farm. Enjoy authentic Costa Rican cuisine in the welcoming La Saca Restaurant or treat yourself to a pizza or tasty snack on the terrace of the Alambique Bistro, with volcano views. The outdoor pool features a fantastic swim-up bar, Uyuyui, serving cocktails prepared with fresh tropical fruit and boasts panoramic views of the volcano. It’s easy to relax and unwind at this hotel. Take a dip in the jacuzzies and hot springs, have a massage treatment in the spa, or simply sit in the rocking chairs on the terrace of your room and soak up the atmosphere. All of the spacious, air-conditioned rooms are in single-storey cottages spread out in the extensive grounds and shuttles are available to and from the rooms furthest away. All rooms have a shower, hairdryer, fridge, safe, TV, tea and coffee making facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi and a private terrace with rocking chairs. This hotel will be used for all tours between May and November. Location The hotel is beautifully situated on a gentle hillside overlooking the perfect cone of the Arenal volcano. The entrance to Arenal Volcano Park is 20 minutes away by road, and downtown La Fortuna takes just 15 minutes.

About the hotel The five-star JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is located within the Hacienda Pinilla, a 4,500-acre ranch which also includes an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a villa resort and beach club. It overlooks the Pacific Ocean and its own sandy beach. The huge free-form pool is at the centre of the resort and facilities also include a fitness room and luxurious spa. The hotel’s dining options include an informal pool bar for lunch, the Azul Grill on the ocean-front, the main restaurant, a steakhouse, and an Asian-fusion restaurant. The comfortable and spacious rooms all feature a balcony or terrace with garden or pool view. They are all air-conditioned and have bath with separate shower, hairdryer, iron, minibar, safe, TV with DVD player, tea and coffee making facilities. Wi-Fi is available at a charge. Location The hotel is a 25-minute drive from Tamarindo, the nearest small beachside resort where you’ll find plenty of local bars and restaurants facing the long sandy beach.

Evergreen Eco-lodge - Tortuguero

About the hotel The resort is set on the Laguna Penitencia canal within the lush rainforest of Tortuguero National Park. All the rooms in this eco-lodge are mostly in single-storey wooden chalets built on stilts and comprising of a covered porch with rocking chairs, , a fridge and a shower. The resort has a focus on sustainability and has some environmental policies such as no TV or air-conditioning – the windows have mosquito screens but no glass, and along with the overhead fan, this is enough to keep the rooms at a comfortable temperature. These ‘open’ windows mean that you can enjoy the early-morning jungle chorus! All meals served are buffet-style, with plenty of local vegetables and fish. There is a pool and a bar serving deliciously fruity cocktails, plus complimentary tea and coffee is available throughout the day. The lodge operates some activities which may be booked locally, including a recommended early morning boat tour. Location The Evergreen eco-lodge is located on one of the rainforest’s ‘canals’, very close to Tortuguero National Park and the Caribbean coast. It is only accessible by boat, a 1.5-hour ride from the dock.

Pachira Eco-lodge - Tortuguero

About the hotel Set in 34 acres of lush rainforest on the edge of Tortuguero National Park, the Pachira eco-lodge has a colourful, exuberant atmosphere. The rooms are mostly in single-storey wooden chalets built on stilts and comprising of a covered porch with rocking chairs, a fridge and shower. In keeping with the eco-friendly theme, there is no TV or air-conditioning – the windows have mosquito screens but no glass, and along with the overhead fan, this is enough to keep the rooms at a comfortable temperature. These ‘open’ windows mean that you can enjoy the early-morning jungle chorus! All meals here are included and are served buffet-style, with plenty of local vegetables and fish. There is a small spa, a pool and a bar serving some excellent cocktails, plus all-day, complimentary tea and coffee is available. The lodge operates some activities which may be booked locally, including a recommended early morning boat tour. Location The Pachira eco-lodge is located on one of the rainforest’s ‘canals’, very close to Tortuguero National Park and the Caribbean coast. It is only accessible by boat, a 1.5-hour ride from the dock.

Aninga Eco-lodge - Tortuguero

The Aninga eco-lodge is located on one of the ‘canals’, close to Tortuguero National Park and the Caribbean coast. It is only accessible by boat, a 1.5-hour ride from the dock. There is a pool and a spa where you can enjoy a relaxing treatment while taking in the incredible views. All meals are included and are taken in the laid-back restaurant, which offers buffet style meals with plenty of fish and vegetables. The 33 rooms are spacious bungalows connected by walkways, with twin or double beds. In keeping with the eco-friendly theme, there is no TV or air-conditioning – the windows have mosquito screens but no glass, and along with the overhead fan, this is enough to keep the rooms at a comfortable temperature. The ‘open’ windows do mean that you can enjoy the early-morning jungle chorus!