Costa Rica Tours & Trips 2020
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DEPARTURE DATES
Style
Style
Small Group Tour Small groups are usually defined as between 10 and 24 travelers, often less. If you're the kind of person who enjoys more intimate experiences and personal service this is a good choice. All else being equal you will pay a premium for this style vs a larger group tour.
Private Guided Private tours give you the undivided attention of a guide, and often involve special access to sites and unique experiences not available to larger groups. This is a great option for families, couples, and small friend groups. Expect to pay a bit more for the extra service.
Self Guided Tour A travel company plans your itinerary and arranges all the logistics including lodging, local activities, and transportantion. You have the flexibility of a solo trip while still getting the convience and time savings of expert planning. Get 90% of the benefits of a tour, without a guide.
Group Tour Groups are between 25-60 people, typically ~30-40. Usually there will be many opportunities to split off and enjoy meals and excursions in smaller groups. This is the most economical way to travel, saving up to 40% versus booking the same itinerary yourself.
River Cruise These vessels are smaller than most ocean cruisers, limiting which amenties are available. Passenger counts can vary. One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the ability to dock at smaller ports and local villages.
Small Ship Cruise Small ship cruises usually have a max passenger count of 500. The primary purpose of these trips is to spend time off the vessel in local ports (e.g. Mediterranean) or experiencing nature (e.g Galapagos or Antarctica). Cabins can vary from budget to luxury.
Large Ship Cruise This is the "floating city" experience, with multiple ways to enjoy your vacation aboard the ship as much as on land. Ships are multiple floors, provide several activities, culinary, and shopping options. They often make fewer stops and have less time available for shore excursions.
Retreats Similar to a self guided tour but staying in one location only with activities and day outings included as a part of the stay.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Travelers Age
Lodging Level
Lodging Level
Camping Typically involves most nights sleeping in tents (sometimes permanent tented sites) or in rustic cabins and lodges.
Basic - 2 star You'll stay in no-frills, but clean and comfortable, hotels or guesthouses. A 'Basic' trip might also involve a few nights of camping.
Value - 3 star Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Premium - 4 star 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Luxury - 5 star The highest level of comfort and service. All accomodations are in four or five star hotels, boutique lodges or high-end homestays.
Physical Level
Physical Level
Very Easy Minimal walking - motor vehicles available for all major parts of trip.
Easy Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments.
Moderate Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment.
Strenuous All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included.
Extreme Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment.
Theme
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Travel Style
Travel Style
Flexible schedule A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full schedule For those looking to maximize their sight seeing time. You thrive on a packed day’s schedule from 8 am to 6pm, with some (but limited) free time. Most activities and meals included.
Balanced schedule You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Solo Friendly
Solo Friendly
Good for Singles Trips that specifically cater to travelers looking to meet other singles.
No Single Supplement Trips where single supplement is usually not required for solo travelers.
Supplier (Company)
Countries Visited
Continents Visited
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Stride Gives Back Stride Gives Back This trip visits a destination impacted by climate change. When you opt in to the Travelstride Gives Back program, we will donate 10% of our net revenue to organizations that help mitigate climate change in these destinations and across the globe. Learn more
Costa Rica Family Holiday with Teenagers

- Dive into the heart of one of the world’s most biologically diverse countries, travelling along rivers, through dense rainforest, past towering volcanoes and to blissful beaches on a journey that will awaken your inner nature-lover
- Get active on an incredible range of outdoor pursuits – rafting along rapids, climbing up to volcanic craters, safari-ing for crocs, and hiking through jungle
- Enjoy close-up encounters with Costa Rica’s endless wildlife, then enjoy plenty of time to let off some steam in thermal springs and swimming pools
- End this adventure by hitting Manuel Antonio National Park, where the evergreen forest grows right up to the long, white beaches and irresistible water
Costa Rica Experience

- San Jose is Costa Rica’s cultural heart. Spend time wandering through the artisan stalls of the main Plaza de la Cultura, with plenty of time to stop for a refresco (smoothie) and to do some people watching.
- 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, perhaps taking a soak and relaxing in La Fortuna’s lava-heated thermal springs.
- 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?
- 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.
Tropical Costa Rica - 2022
- Discover the history of coffee in Costa Rica during your visit to a coffee plantation.
- Taste your way through a cooking demonstration featuring local ingredients.
- D
- Enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding Arenal Volcano.
- Spot indigenous wildlife while on a Cano Negro riverboat cruise.
- Learn about Costa Rica's vegetation on a guided walk in the cloud forest.
Wild Costa Rica (first Class)
- Day 1- Arrive Liberia airport/ Drive to Arenal Volcano
- Day at leisure of optional activities. You can choose from an array of activities at an extra cost such as horseback riding, canopy, hanging bridges, canoe ride, floating, rafting, hiking and much more. In the afternoon, you will have an opportunity to walk through the old volcanic lava trails. Later enjoy a relaxing bath at the hot springs. After dinner at a local restaurant you will return to your hotel. (BD) Day 3 – Arenal Volcano – Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Today you will travel to Monteverde (around 3 hour drive) across Costa Rica’s largest and majestic Arenal Lake. Enjoy your journey up the cloud forest with its amazing wildlife. (B) Day 4 – Monteverde Cloud Forest
- In the morning you will visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Private Reserve with its tropical flora and fauna, six different ecological communities of plants and animals -over 2,000 plant species and more than 320 species of birds, including hummingbirds, Black guan, toucanet, different species of trees, orchids, lichens are also easily found. Afternoon at leisure to relax and explore on your own. A few other optional activities available are: Sky Trek, Sky Walk, Butterfly Garden, El Trapiche, Coffee Tour and many others. (B) Day 5 – Monteverde – Guanacaste
- Travel to Guanacaste Province; with some of the best beaches of Costa Rica. In Guanacaste you will be able to explore and enjoy a variety of landscapes and optional activities like surfing, scuba diving, horseback riding, canopy, rafting and much more. (B) Day 6 – Guanacaste
- Day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel. (B) Day 7 – Guanacaste- Liberia airport/ Depart Costa Rica
- You will be assisted and transferred to the airport for your flight to onward destination. (B)
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred (4 hour drive) to Arenal Volcano located in the Northern lands of Costa Rica driving through the Guanacaste province via Liberia, Cañas and Tilaran. Continue along the scenic Arenal Lake and arrive at your hotel. Weather permitting you may have a beautiful view of the Arenal Volcano. Day 2 – Arenal Volcano
Costa Rica: Raft, Surf & Kayak

- Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is home to monkeys, reptiles, toucans and macaws, while its waters contain turtles, barracudas, sea urchins and more than 125 species of fish.
- Raft Costa Rica’s Pacuare River – an area ranked in the top five rivers of the world for whitewater rafting. You’ll tackle Class 3 and 4 rapids on an unforgettable river adventure.
- Catch some waves with a hiking and surfing expedition at Manzanillo beach. You’ll be away from the crowds and hanging ten in no time!
- Hop into kayaks and paddle through the waterways of Tortuguero National Parkin search of monkeys, sloths, caiman, jaguars and lizards.
- Explore the rich urban centre of capital San Jose, with time before and after your active adventure to really get to know the Costa Rican way of life.
Costa Rica - Escape In Style
- Day 1- Arrive San Jose
- Today you will travel through dense jungle and along the banks of the Pacuare River, where you will climb into a hanging gondola to cross the water – quite an adventure! There is just a 300 meters hike to the Pacuare Lodge. Here you will find a unique jungle oasis nestled in a most remarkable setting. Without the distractions of technology, guests connect more fully to the rhythms and romance of the rain forest. The candlelit rooms make for a cosy, intimate guest experience. (BLD) Day 3 – Pacuare River
- Awaken this morning to the harmonious melody created by the sounds of the river and the sweet songs of tropical birds. This morning enjoy the Canopy Tour (Zip Lines). This is an experience as no other! You will face the exotic beauty of the rainforest head on, feeling the adrenaline of dramatic views, rappelling down towering trees and sliding along cables from tree to tree, as you descend the jungle-cloaked mountain toward the Pacuare Lodge for a final thrilling rappel that leaves you just steps away from our main lodge!The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the scenic beauty and natural surroundings of the Pacuare River. (BLD) Day 4 – Pacuare River – Arenal Volcano
- Today is full of adventure and adrenaline. A professional guide and the right equipment will be waiting at the river, and after some safety instructions, you will start on this incredible rafting journey. In the water, you will experience the exhilaration of riding the waves on this wild and scenic river, which passes through picturesque canyons where crystal-clear waterfalls plummet down into the rapidly coursing river below. You may stop to explore side streams that lead to striking waterfalls and pools with a natural waterslide that tempt you to take a dip. A picnic lunch will be served along the river, and when you reach the end, you can change into dry clothes and head to the drop-off point to continue via a land transfer towards the northern lowlands. Along this route you will pass through different towns such as Puerto Viejo (Sarapiqui), San Miguel, Venecia and Aguas Zarcas. In addition, along the way you will enjoy the beautiful scenery, which includes amazing views of the mountains and one of the major sources of revenue in the area: the agriculture. Depending on the season, you will observe pineapple, banana and/or sugar cane crops. Arrive in La Fortuna Village late in the afternoon, where the mighty Arenal Volcano will welcome you with its impressive perfect conical shape. Check in to the Nayara Springs, where you will be staying the next three nights. (BL) Day 5 & 6 – Arenal Volcano
- These two days are at your leisure to explore the area. We highly recommend the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park (extra cost) that protects an active perfect cone volcano with constant moderate explosions accompanied by roar, gases and ash emissions that raise high in the air. (B) Day 7 – Arenal Volcano – SJO International Airport
- Your amazing Costa Rica experience ends today. You will be transferred to Juan Santamaria Int’l Airport (SJO) for your departure flight back home (3 hours’ drive). (B)
Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica. You are welcomed and transferred to the hotel. Day 2 – San Jose – Pacuare River
Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguer ...
- Taste for yourself why cacao is called “the food of the gods” and observe the process of converting this seed from bean to bar.
- Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner.
- Learn how to cook using a coconut before making some delicious local candy.
- Learn about Costa Rica’s ecosystem and local culture.
- Visit the world’s first sea turtle research station in Tortuguero National Park.
- Explore Arenal during a captivating 3-night stay.
- Stay in Tortuguero National Park and find yourself surrounded by wildlife.
- Hop aboard a river boat for a jungle crocodile safari and bird watching excursion.
Viva Costa Rica(Twin Share Room,Start San Jose, E ...
- Learn all about authentic Costa Rican coffee on a Don Juan Coffee tour
- Entrance to Selvatura Park, also known as Monteverde's Cloud Forest
Costa Rica Explorer

- Arrive in Costa Rica's capital San Jose and tour a few of the city's highlights including the neoclassical Teatro Nacional.
- Watch thousands of turtles nest at Tortuguero National Park, then tour its canals and village!
- Explore the secret waterfalls and rainforests of Bajos del Toro, one of the most beautiful areas in the country.
- Hike, bike, and see the elusive Resplendent quetzal bird at Arenal Volcano and its national park.
- Learn to surf in Guanacaste, a northwestern province on the Pacific known for its pristine beaches and perfect waves!
Costa Rica Eco Adventure End Liberia
- Visit Tortuguero National Park, Sarapiqui, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- View Arenal Volcano
- Connect with Locals
- Dive Into Culture
- MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Costa Rica Wonders with Tortuguero & Guanacaste
- Visit the village of Tortuguero, where you learn the lifestyle of local residents and the significant conservation efforts developed to protect the sea turtles that come to spawn each year along the 22 miles of nearby protected coastline
- Visit the famous Tabacón Hot Springs and take a dip in the natural springs and pools of mineral waters surrounded by lush, tropical forest
- Visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a network of suspension bridges, platforms, and trails built in the cloud forest
- Visit and call the area home
- Visit Santa Elena Cloud Forest to best experience the animals in their natural forest habitats
- Visit a local family’s farm to learn about sugar cane, coffee, and tilapia farming
- Visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park, known as Costa Rica’s Yellowstone, to explore the steamy sulfur water ponds and pungent fumaroles that punctuate this jungle, home to toucans, monkeys, and many other animals
Costa Rica Wonders with Tortuguero & Manuel Antonio
- Visit the village of Tortuguero, where you learn the lifestyle of local residents and the significant conservation efforts developed to protect the sea turtles that come to spawn each year along the 22 miles of nearby protected coastline
- Visit the famous Tabacón Hot Springs and take a dip in the natural springs and pools of mineral waters surrounded by lush, tropical forest
- Visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a network of suspension bridges, platforms, and trails built in the cloud forest
- Visit and call the area home
- Visit Santa Elena Cloud Forest to best experience the animals in their natural forest habitats
- Visit a local family’s farm to learn about sugar cane, coffee, and tilapia farming
Wildlife of Costa Rica

Best of Mexico & Costa Rica

- Get up close and personal with the country's diverse heritage, from the magnificent Aztec temples of Teotihuacan to the brightly-dressed Maya folk of the hills of San Cristobal.
- Compare Mexico City's heady street-food scene to the subtler fare found in Oaxaca.
- Take in the atmosphere and culture of San Jose: Costa Rica’s bustling capital nestled between the mountains and volcanoes.
- Hike to San Pedrillo in Corcovado National Park and explore one of the world's most biodiverse regions.
- Swim at white-sand beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park, after searching for exotic birdlife in the depths of the jungle.
- Learn about the trade of one of Costa Rica’s largest exports: coffee. Take a visit to a family's coffee farm and learn the process from cherry to cup (with a tasting, of course).
- Discover the diverse and unique wildlife of Costa Rica: butterflies, birds, iguanas, sloths and caimans, to name a few.
Costa Rican Adventure: White Water Rafting, Zip L ...

- Pacuare River white water rafting and lunch
- Half-day Sky Adventures Park (Zip line)
- Evening Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Tour
- Half-day Catamaran Ocean King Tour, with lunch
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Top Costa Rica Attractions & Experiences
Top Costa Rica Experiences
Exploring miles of off-the-beaten-track beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts
Glimpsing rare tropical birds and butterflies on a rainforest hike
Viewing both coasts from atop 11,200-foot Irazu volcano while gazing into massive craters that look like they were scooped out for some gargantuan ice cream cone.
Cooling off in Monteverde Cloud Forest, one of the most beautiful forests in the world, while in search of monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife.
Reveling in the colors of wildflowers and trees on a nature hike: orchids, bougainvillea, jacaranda, and flame and poro trees, which paint the landscape with purples, oranges and scarlets.
Coming upon a forest waterfall and taking a dip in the waters below
Relaxing in a secluded hot springs at Arenal Volcano National Park
Partaking in Costa Rica's famous adventure activities: Riding a zipline high over a forest canopy, rappelling down a waterfall canyon, kayaking on a clear mountain lake -- or all three in one day.
Reeling in a big catch on a sport fishing cruise in a quest for tuna, wahoo and marlin.
Top Costa Rica Attractions
1,973 Costa Rica Tour Reviews - Summary 94% Recommend
All Costa Rica tours, river cruises, expedition cruises, and adventure trips. Find the best guided trips and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Average rating of 4.7 for all Costa Rica trips.
106 trips from 127 tour companies with 1,973 reviews
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