Costa Rica Complete: Tortuguero, Arenal, Tenorio & More
- Duration
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,829
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: An encompassing tour of northern Costa Rica, travelling from east to west, discover the canals of Tortuguero, volcanic Arenal and Tenorio, and bask in the sun on sandy beaches in Playa Flamingo.
This 11-day, tailor-made trip through Costa Rica takes you to some of its most beautiful regions and national parks. Experience both the Caribbean and Pacific Coasts, and see the country’s most recognizable natural landmark, the Arenal Volcano.
On arrival in Costa Rica, spend your first night in San Jose with a quick tour to appreciate the city’s architecture and neighbourhoods. A traditional Costa Rican dinner closes the day before your onward journey to Tortuguero. Drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park, keeping your eyes peeled for the abundant and varied wildlife until you reach Caño Blanco where your journey takes to the water. Explore Tortuguero’s famous canals before enjoying a delicious lunch, then disembark for a free afternoon. You’ll have another guided day here to explore Tortuguero National Park in detail, perhaps spying manatees, crocodiles, sloths, and monkeys among many other species.
Transfer to Arenal for an adventure on the Balsa River with rafting and canopy zip-lining. As thrilling as it is fascinating, this day will see you zip across a large canyon, soar over waterfalls, and tackle the rapids in between spying a wide range of species. Your next stop is Tenorio, via the Rio Celeste waterfall, one of the country’s most impressive cascades. Staying at a mountain lodge, your time here is at leisure to hike the trails, or simply take a rest day.
Maybe don’t rest too much though. You’ll have time for that at Playa Flamingo, where an all-inclusive stay lets you unwind. If you’re not the type to drop and flop, a range of canopy tours, eco excursions, and watersports are available here too.
Transfer to Liberia Airport for your onward flight.
- Duration
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,829
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Costa Rica
Upon arrival to Costa Rica, pass through Customs and claim your baggage. After reaching the exit to the Arrivals terminal please find your local representative, who will be holding a sign with your name on it. Your guide will review your travel details with you and then drive you to your hotel. The drive from the airport to the hotel takes approximately 45 minutes. Later in the day, meet your guide to head out on a tour of San Jose to learn more about the capital of Costa Rica.
Duration: 1 Night
Accommodation: Hotel Autentico, Standard Deluxe Room
San Jose to Tortuguero
Today, wake in the early morning and board a bus outside of your hotel (shared service) and start the transfer to Tortuguero, which begins with a drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park. A protected area of astonishing biodiversity, the drive itself is quite spectacular, and en route you’ll stop to have a freshly served breakfast. Back on the road, you’re sure to see all sorts of produce grown in the area including pineapples and bananas. Upon arrival to Caño Blanco and Pavona Pier, you’ll board a small boat and begin the extraordinary journey through an exotic and enchanting paradise, navigating through Tortuguero’s canals to reach the lodge. Docking at the lodge just before lunch, you’ll soon be invited to enjoy a refreshing cocktail, and to settle in to eat. After lunch, enjoy time at leisure before dinner, which is available from 7pm.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Pachira Lodge |
| Location | View map |
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Pachira Lodge
Located on a 34 acre property just five minutes from Tortuguero National Park is Pachira Lodge. The lodge is surrounded by a stunning network of canals which are home to a diverse mix of flora and fauna. The lodge has 88 comfortable guest rooms all …
Located on a 34 acre property just five minutes from Tortuguero National Park is Pachira Lodge. The lodge is surrounded by a stunning network of canals which are home to a diverse mix of flora and fauna. The lodge has 88 comfortable guest rooms all equipped with private ensuite, hot water and ceiling fans.
Facilities
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Swimming Pool
Exploring Tortuguero
After breakfast, set out on a guided walking tour through the trails, and in the afternoon, visit Tortuguero National Park to explore the canals in small, open-air boats. Tortuguero is a network of navigable lakes, rivers and canals (both natural and man-made) that are used for transportation and are a great place for observing local wildlife such as birds, monkeys, two and three-toed sloths, American crocodiles and caimans. The canals also provide shelter to endangered animals such as the Oriental Indian Manatee, crocodiles, a large variety of crustaceous and about 30 species of sweet water fish, including the Gaspar, widely considered a living fossil.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|
Tortuguero to Arenal
After breakfast, prepare for a shared boat transfer back to the pier, where the trip will continue by bus (shared service) to your next destination, Arenal. The transfer from Tortuguero to Arenal takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, and includes transportation by both boat and bus. Upon arrival to your hotel in Arenal, the remainder of your day is at leisure.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Arenal Manoa |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Arenal Manoa
Hotel Arenal Manoa is a beautiful hotel to relax and enjoy the marvelous view of Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica. Surrounded by gardens, pastures and animals, the rooms have been designed so that each one offers you a panoramic view of the Arenal Volcano. Arenal …
Hotel Arenal Manoa is a beautiful hotel to relax and enjoy the marvelous view of Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica. Surrounded by gardens, pastures and animals, the rooms have been designed so that each one offers you a panoramic view of the Arenal Volcano. Arenal visitors can take advantage of the spacious gardens for walking and meditation as well as the opportunities to see the daily operations of a typical Costa Rican farm.
Facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Massage Treatments
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Spa
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Rafting the Balsa River & Canopy Zip-lining
Your adventure today starts in the morning and, after transfers and a safety briefing, begins with 7 extreme zip-line cables, an adrenaline-filled climb up a 54-foot high tower, and a zip across a large canyon. You will also traverse a hanging bridge and then whisk down the longest cable in the track, soaring high above La Fortuna waterfall and taking in excellent views of the town. Later, the day continues on the river with an amazing white water rafting tour on the Balsa River, where you will tackle class II & III rapids. Along the way you’ll spot flora and fauna species with your local guide and at the end of this incredible adventure, relax and enjoy a well earned lunch in a restaurant. Be sure to bring fast drying clothes, water shoes, tennis shoes, a change of clothes, insect repellent and sunscreen.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Lunch |
|---|
Arenal to Tenorio
After breakfast, gather your belongings and baggage, then meet your driver-guide in the hotel lobby. Soon after, you’ll transfer from Arenal to Tenorio. The transfer from Arenal to Tenorio takes approximately 2 hours. Along the way, you’ll stop at the impressive Rio Celeste waterfall, adding another hour to your trip. Upon arrival to your hotel, the remainder of your day is at leisure.
Accommodation: Hotel Celeste Mountain Lodge, Standard Room
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
Tenorio at Leisure
Celeste Mountain Lodge is a Responsible Tourism establishment, located in Bijagua de Upala, at the door to Volcano Tenorio National Park and the amazing Rio Celeste (Blue River). An authentic rural area of renowned natural beauty, it is home to plenty of forest and there is much to do. The Lodge offers a private trail leading through pristine tropical forest where you can admire the beautiful landscape while trying to spot a fantastic range of curious creatures, a restaurant that serves delicious “Tica-fusion” cuisine, a bar, a tropical hot bath (closed in September and October), a Wi-Fi zone, and a reading area among other amenities. In short, you’re sure to enjoy your day at leisure here.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Tenorio to Playa Flamingo
After breakfast, gather your belongings and baggage, then meet your driver-guide in the hotel lobby. Soon after, you’ll transfer from Tenorio to Playa Flamingo. The transfer from Tenorio to Playa Flamingo takes approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival to Playa Flamingo, it is time to relax and enjoy your all-inclusive stay on the beachfront.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Margaritaville Beach Resort |
| Location | View map |
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Margaritaville Beach Resort
Change your latitude and escape to a tropical paradise where golden sands invite you to linger under shady palms and the warm, blue Pacific Ocean beckons you to dive in and explore. Where a relaxing and casual beach vibe and authentic hospitality truly inspire the …
Change your latitude and escape to a tropical paradise where golden sands invite you to linger under shady palms and the warm, blue Pacific Ocean beckons you to dive in and explore. Where a relaxing and casual beach vibe and authentic hospitality truly inspire the spirit of Pura Vida - the pure life.
Relax in beautiful rooms and suites, including specialty family suites, overlooking tropical gardens, oversized pool and the Pacific Ocean. Indulge your senses at OnZen Spa, lounge on the pristine beach or enjoy paddleboarding on Pacific waves. Relax by the sparkling outdoor pool and sip a cocktail at the swim-up pool bar. Take in a spectacular sunset over the ocean while enjoying international cuisine infused with Costa Rican flavors in one of three restaurants. Enjoy whitewater rafting, zip-lining adventures, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and volcano tours. At Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo, the possibilities for romance and adventure are endless.
Playa Flamingo at Leisure
The next two days are for you to relax or take advantage of the resort's facilties.
Located on Playa Buena in the Gulf of Papagayo, a region of remarkable natural beauty, the facilities and services offered at your hotel include two bars, a discotheque, two swimming pools, a gym, spa, beauty parlor, tennis court, gift shop, and three restaurants. Canopy tours, eco-excursions, world-class deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving and a gamut of alternative activities and sports are also available at additional cost.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|
Depart Costa Rica
Following breakfast, it’s time to pack up and prepare for your return flight back home. At the pre-arranged time, meet your driver-guide in the hotel lobby and settle in for a private transfer to the airport. The drive from Playa Flamingo to Liberia Airport takes approximately 1 hour. Bon voyage and pura vida!
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Daily
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Private arrival and departure airport transfers (San Jose & Liberia)
- 1 night in moderate accommodations in San Jose
- 2 nights in moderate accommodations in Tortuguero
- 2 nights in moderate accommodations in Arenal
- 2 nights in moderate accommodations in Tenorio
- 3 nights in first-class accommodations in Playa Flamingo
- Private-guided San Jose city tour
- Shared bus & boat transfer from San Jose to Tortuguero (max 42 guests)
- Small group touring at Pachira Lodge (max 18 guests)
- Entrance fee to Tortuguero National Park
- Shared boat & bus transfer from Tortuguero to Arenal (max 42 guests)
- Small group river rafting and canopy adventure (max 11 guests)
- Private transfer from Arenal to Tenorio via Rio Celeste waterfall (including admission)
- Private transfer from Tenorio to Playa Hermosa
- Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 5 lunches, 4 dinners
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
- Visa fees if applicable
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season (advertised pricing based on 4 September 2023 departure – alternative dates available). Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Pachira Lodge: The Three-day Tortuguero National Park package includes a guided walk on the private trails of the lodge and the guided visit to Tortuguero National Park. Please note, the order and logistics of the itinerary may change depending on weather conditions. Alcoholic beverages, sodas or bottled water are not included. It is recommended to use dark color clothes when taking the night tour during the nesting season. Luggage is limited to 25 pounds (12 Kg) per person. From July to September, the optional night tour (not included in the package) to observe the turtle nesting is available for purchase (own expense).
Dietary Restrictions: In order to provide the best possible service, please inform us about any dietary restrictions and any other special conditions we should know about as soon as possible.
Rafting Considerations: The logistic and duration of the rafting trips are directly affected by the weather and other natural conditions. Rainy days prior the operation of the tour normally mean that the tour will take less time than it normally takes due to high water level. Lack of rain prior the operation of the tour normally means that the tour will be longer due to low water level. It is important for all guests and participants to know that specific conditions of the tour to be provided are unpredictable. For Corcovado and Tortuguero similar conditions apply due to logistic is subject to natural conditions.
Smoking: By law it is prohibited to smoke in all private and public facilities, as well as in all protected areas throughout the national territory. It is important that the guests and participants are aware of this regulation in order to avoid inconveniences during your stay in the country.
Yellow Fever Vaccine: Vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory for all tourists coming from geographical areas considered at risk. All passengers should have received a vaccine at least 10 days before arrival and must show a valid certificate of vaccination to be allowed in the county. This requirement does not apply for: Children under 9 months old. Tourists having only transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Tourists coming from a country at risk that have spent more than 6 days in another country not at risk before arriving in Costa Rica and have not developed yellow fever. Tourists having a proven medical exemption for the yellow fever vaccine.
Things to Consider for a Trip to Costa Rica: Copies of passport. Sunscreen and insect repellent. Shirts: Cotton or light synthetic, long- and short-sleeved. Dry fit clothing: Cotton or light synthetic pants and shorts. Bring at least 2 sets of clothes that dry quickly (jeans not recommended and too slow to dry). Footwear: Waterproof, light-weight hiking boots, river sandals (Teva-type sandals), tennis shoes/running shoes. If you do not bring hiking boots, make sure you bring two pairs of tennis shoes. If you are going to observe the turtle nesting at any of the nesting areas in the country, bring dark pants, shirt and closed-toe shoes. Socks: Bring extra pairs in case feet get wet. Rain gear: Rain poncho and/or umbrella. Hat(s) with visor for rain and sun protection. Flashlight with spare batteries and bulb (a must for Corcovado area). Camera and extra batteries, charger and plenty of memory. Zip-lock plastic bags for personal belongings protection in case of rain. Extra prescription glasses and medication (if applicable). Small day pack or fanny pack for hikes. Sweater or light jacket. Sunglasses. Swimwear.
Costa Rica General Facts: The sunset in Costa Rica is between 17:45 p.m. to 18:00 p.m. all year around. In Costa Rica, water is safe to drink. Most of hotels have also water dispensers where guests can refill the bottles. Credit cards accepted: Visa, Master Card & American Express. USD$ are well accepted at restaurants and stores. (Preferably $10 & $20 bills). The electrical current throughout Costa Rica is the same as US-110-volt AC. Outlets are generally 2-pronged. A voltage converter is necessary in order to use 240/250-Volt AC-powered items. Weather: Dry season: From December to April. Rainy season: From May to November (if visits are near forests, there are more chances of rain).
Operational and Other Considerations: The operation of the itinerary is subject to weather conditions; Goway and our local providers will make any necessary changes in order to guarantee safety and enjoyment.
31 May 2024
