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Costa Rica Experience

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Costa Rica Experience

Was From $ 1,995 AUD
Now From $ 1,696 AUD
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Description

Discover a region of natural diversity, cultural riches and laidback vibes on a nine-day jungle jaunt through Costa Rica. Thanks to a longstanding tradition of preserving its natural assets, much of the country’s primary rainforest still stands. Opportunities for nature-based activities are endless here and the beaches on both coasts are well worth your free time. Kick back in the rustic beach town of Quepos, explore the steamy cloud forests of Monteverde and get to know the locals by lending a hand on a rural farmstay near Santa Rosa de Pocosol. Explore the depths of this colourful and vibrant country with plenty of time to make this trip your own.

Trip Name
Costa Rica Experience
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
9
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Try to spot the elusive resplendent quetzal when you’re exploring Monteverde’s steamy cloud forests. Better yet, why not consider a jungle zip-line to get high in the sky for the best views?
  • Spend time wandering through the Mercado Municipal de Artesanias artisan stalls in San Jose – Costa Rica’s cultural heart. With plenty of time to stop for a refresco (smoothie), this is a good opportunity to people-watch.
  • Lend a hand at a farmstay outside of Santa Rosa de Pocosol and learn some home-cooked recipes and techniques from the locals on a visit to the Juanilama agricultural community.
  • Marvel at the size and stature of the Arenal Volcano on the horizon, maybe taking a soak and relaxing in La Fortuna’s lava-heated thermal springs.
  • With plenty of time to chill out at your own pace, Quepos’ surf vibe is ideal for catching some waves, lazing on the white-sand beaches or hiking the lush trails of Manuel Antonio with your travel pals.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - San Jose
Hola! Welcome to Costa Rica. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today in San Jose. With over half the country's population living within its parameters, San Jose is a dynamic atmosphere. If you arrive early, why not wander around at your own pace – a good place to start exploring is the main plaza, perfect for some people watching. Tonight, maybe head out to get to know your group with an optional welcome dinner.
Day 2 - Santa Rosa de Pocosol
Travel by private vehicle to Santa Rosa de Pocosol today, where you’ll spend the night in a homestay. Just down the road is the Juanilama agricultural community, where you can get to know the locals, help with farm chores, and take an informal cooking lesson. Several villagers have built comfortable rooms for guests next to their homes, and you’ll stay in one of them this evening. Please note that these rooms use shared facilities. In order to make the most of this homestay experience, it may take a bit of effort from your side to break the ice first. Learn as many Spanish words as you can before you arrive!
Day 3 - La Fortuna
Today, continue to La Fortuna – a small town situated just a few minutes away from Costa Rica's famous Arenal Volcano. Besides its panoramic views, the town offers a range of other activities such as the 70-m-high La Fortuna waterfall, stunning lush forest, rare plants, animal watching and water-based activities on the lake. The volcano’s inner workings also mean that the area has a number of thermal springs where lava-heated water gushes to the surface. These springs have been sculpted into several pools and waterfalls, making them the ideal place to relax. Spend the rest of the day as you please in this exciting town, maybe even testing your balance on a stand-up paddleboard.
Day 4 - Monteverde
Today, you’ll take the scenic route to Monteverde. Monteverde was founded as an agricultural community in 1951 by a group of North American Quakers – they cleared virgin forests to create verdant pastures ideal for dairy farming. These environmentally aware settlers were conscious of the danger that unrestricted settling and farming could cause to this precious habitat, so they established a small, privately owned wildlife sanctuary, which has grown to become the internationally renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve. More than 2000 species of plants, 320 bird species and 100 different types of mammals call Montverde home. When you arrive, you can choose from a range of outdoor activities to wildlife spot, hike or cruise on the waters.
Day 5 - Monteverde
Today is free for you to choose how you'd like to spend your time in this beautiful area. Maybe start your exploration with a tour of the suspension bridges that hang in the trees, or head to the Serpentarium to see some crawly critters. Watch butterflies at play in the specially created garden, hire a local guide to show you around the area, visit a community cooperative or zip-line through the lush canopy. Whatever you do, be sure to keep an eye out for the resplendent quetzal – one of the most elusive birds in the world.
Day 6 - Quepos
Travel through the mountains to Quepos by private minibus. Located close to the beautiful Pacific beaches and exotic wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park, Quepos is a laidback town with a vibrant nightlife. This afternoon, you'll get the chance to meet three generations of Costa Ricans and tuck into a traditional cooking class for lunch with them in their home. Prior to the pandemic, the family ran one of the most popular restaurants in Quepos for almost 20 years. Now, you're lucky to learn the secret flavours and spices of their traditional dishes and get to know the whole family. Once the sun goes down, why not grab a spot at a waterfront restaurant and sink your teeth into some fresh seafood with your travel crew – this is the life.
Day 7 - Quepos - Manuel Antonio NP
Spend your time enjoying all that Manuel Antonio National Park has to offer with a free day today. Perhaps head out for a hike along one of the many trails, keeping one eye on the great views and the other looking for the abundant wildlife. Monkeys, armadillos, sloths and hundreds of birds are among the species you can spot here. The park also boasts turquoise seas and white-sand beaches – perfect for swimming, kayaking, sailing and fishing. It would be easy to spend your whole time here in, or by, the water.
Day 8 - San Jose
Take a public bus back to San Jose today, arriving back in time for you to pick up some last-minute souvenirs at the city's colourful and vibrant markets. Then, head out for an optional dinner and a night on the town, getting a taste of the huge variety of nightlife on offer here.
Day 9 - San Jose
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
14-12-202422-12-2024AUD $ 2,172-
21-12-202429-12-2024AUD $ 2,620-
23-12-202431-12-2024AUD $ 2,620-
28-12-202405-01-2025AUD $ 2,755-
06-01-202514-01-2025AUD $ 1,815-
18-01-202526-01-2025AUD $ 1,764-
25-01-202502-02-2025AUD $ 1,764-
03-02-202511-02-2025AUD $ 1,866-
06-02-202514-02-2025AUD $ 1,866-
15-02-202523-02-2025AUD $ 1,866-
17-02-202525-02-2025AUD $ 1,866-
22-02-202502-03-2025AUD $ 1,866-
24-02-202504-03-2025AUD $ 1,866-
01-03-202509-03-2025AUD $ 1,866-
08-03-202516-03-2025AUD $ 1,866-
10-03-202518-03-2025AUD $ 1,866-
15-03-202523-03-2025AUD $ 1,866-
24-03-202501-04-2025AUD $ 1,866-
29-03-202506-04-2025AUD $ 1,866-
03-04-202511-04-2025AUD $ 1,764-
05-04-202513-04-2025AUD $ 1,764-
07-04-202515-04-2025AUD $ 1,764-
21-04-202529-04-2025AUD $ 1,764-
24-04-202502-05-2025AUD $ 1,764-
26-04-202504-05-2025AUD $ 1,764-
28-04-202506-05-2025AUD $ 1,764-
03-05-202511-05-2025AUD $ 1,696-
10-05-202518-05-2025AUD $ 1,696-
17-05-202525-05-2025AUD $ 1,696-
24-05-202501-06-2025AUD $ 1,696-
07-06-202515-06-2025AUD $ 1,696-
14-06-202522-06-2025AUD $ 1,696-
28-06-202506-07-2025AUD $ 1,696-
05-07-202513-07-2025AUD $ 1,696-
07-07-202515-07-2025AUD $ 1,696-
12-07-202520-07-2025AUD $ 1,696-
19-07-202527-07-2025AUD $ 1,764-
26-07-202503-08-2025AUD $ 1,764-
02-08-202510-08-2025AUD $ 1,696-
16-08-202524-08-2025AUD $ 1,696-
30-08-202507-09-2025AUD $ 1,696-
06-09-202514-09-2025AUD $ 1,696-
13-09-202521-09-2025AUD $ 1,696-
27-09-202505-10-2025AUD $ 1,696-
04-10-202512-10-2025AUD $ 1,696-
11-10-202519-10-2025AUD $ 1,696-
18-10-202526-10-2025AUD $ 1,696-
25-10-202502-11-2025AUD $ 1,696-
01-11-202509-11-2025AUD $ 1,764-
08-11-202516-11-2025AUD $ 1,764-
10-11-202518-11-2025AUD $ 1,764-
15-11-202523-11-2025AUD $ 1,764-
17-11-202525-11-2025AUD $ 1,764-
22-11-202530-11-2025AUD $ 1,764-
24-11-202502-12-2025AUD $ 1,764-
29-11-202507-12-2025AUD $ 1,764-
01-12-202509-12-2025AUD $ 1,866-
06-12-202514-12-2025AUD $ 1,866-
13-12-202521-12-2025AUD $ 1,866-
15-12-202523-12-2025AUD $ 2,195-
18-12-202526-12-2025AUD $ 2,195-
20-12-202528-12-2025AUD $ 2,195-
25-12-202502-01-2026AUD $ 2,195-
27-12-202504-01-2026AUD $ 2,195-
03-01-202611-01-2026AUD $ 2,180-
05-01-202613-01-2026AUD $ 2,180-
10-01-202618-01-2026AUD $ 2,180-
17-01-202625-01-2026AUD $ 2,180-
19-01-202627-01-2026AUD $ 2,180-
24-01-202601-02-2026AUD $ 2,180-
02-02-202610-02-2026AUD $ 2,180-
05-02-202613-02-2026AUD $ 2,305-
07-02-202615-02-2026AUD $ 2,305-
14-02-202622-02-2026AUD $ 2,305-
16-02-202624-02-2026AUD $ 2,305-
21-02-202601-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
23-02-202603-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
28-02-202608-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
02-03-202610-03-2026AUD $ 1,995-
07-03-202615-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
09-03-202617-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
14-03-202622-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
16-03-202624-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
21-03-202629-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
23-03-202631-03-2026AUD $ 2,305-
28-03-202605-04-2026AUD $ 2,305-
02-04-202610-04-2026AUD $ 2,180-
04-04-202612-04-2026AUD $ 2,180-
06-04-202614-04-2026AUD $ 2,180-
20-04-202628-04-2026AUD $ 2,180-
23-04-202601-05-2026AUD $ 2,180-
25-04-202603-05-2026AUD $ 2,180-
27-04-202605-05-2026AUD $ 2,180-
02-05-202610-05-2026AUD $ 2,095-
09-05-202617-05-2026AUD $ 2,095-
16-05-202624-05-2026AUD $ 2,095-
23-05-202631-05-2026AUD $ 2,095-
06-06-202614-06-2026AUD $ 2,095-
13-06-202621-06-2026AUD $ 2,095-
27-06-202605-07-2026AUD $ 2,095-
04-07-202612-07-2026AUD $ 2,095-
06-07-202614-07-2026AUD $ 2,095-
11-07-202619-07-2026AUD $ 2,095-
18-07-202626-07-2026AUD $ 2,095-
25-07-202602-08-2026AUD $ 2,095-
01-08-202609-08-2026AUD $ 2,095-
08-08-202616-08-2026AUD $ 1,995-
15-08-202623-08-2026AUD $ 2,095-
29-08-202606-09-2026AUD $ 2,095-
05-09-202613-09-2026AUD $ 2,095-
12-09-202620-09-2026AUD $ 2,095-
26-09-202604-10-2026AUD $ 2,095-
10-10-202618-10-2026AUD $ 2,095-
17-10-202625-10-2026AUD $ 2,095-
24-10-202601-11-2026AUD $ 2,095-
31-10-202608-11-2026AUD $ 2,095-
07-11-202615-11-2026AUD $ 2,180-
09-11-202617-11-2026AUD $ 2,180-
14-11-202622-11-2026AUD $ 2,180-
16-11-202624-11-2026AUD $ 2,180-
21-11-202629-11-2026AUD $ 2,180-
23-11-202601-12-2026AUD $ 2,180-
28-11-202606-12-2026AUD $ 2,180-
30-11-202608-12-2026AUD $ 2,180-
05-12-202613-12-2026AUD $ 2,305-
07-12-202615-12-2026AUD $ 1,995-
12-12-202620-12-2026AUD $ 2,305-
14-12-202622-12-2026AUD $ 2,305-
17-12-202625-12-2026AUD $ 2,305-
19-12-202627-12-2026AUD $ 2,305-
26-12-202603-01-2027AUD $ 2,305-
28-12-202605-01-2027AUD $ 1,995-

Accommodation

Hotel (7 nights),Homestay (1 night)

Transport

Private vehicle,Boat,Public Transportation

Map