If you’re looking for a taste of Costa Rica’s world-class highlights but want to keep things spicy with a sampling of hidden treasures, this action-packed adventure tops the menu. In spite of its small size, Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world with volcanoes, wildlife, rainforests, and beaches to explore. This adventure offers a great balance of guided excursions and free time. Optional activities abound — choose to get your adrenaline pumping or take it easy with a stroll through a butterfly garden.
Day 1: San JoséArrive at any time.
Day 2: San José/QueposTravel from San José to the coast and the city of Quepos, located just outside of Manuel Antonio Nationanl Park. Enjoy a couple of days in the area with plenty of time to explore and to relax on the beach.
Day 3: QueposDiscover the lush tropical forests and white-sand beaches of Costa Rica’s smallest national park. Hike through the dense forest, climb up to rocky outcrops for views of the dazzling Pacific Ocean, and go swimming in the park’s lovely lagoons and tidal pools. Later, enjoy some free time at the beach. Opt go kayaking through mangroves, take a surf lesson or cruise along the coast on a dolphin-spotting sunset sailing excursion.
Day 4: Quepos/MonteverdeTravel from Quepos to Monteverde and into the cool mountain air of the area. Upon arrival you will have free time to relax from the long day of travel or opt to go on a guided night walk in the cloud forest to learn all about nocturnal life.
Day 5: MonteverdeEnjoy a free day to explore the cloud forest region of Costa Rica. Opt to fly across canopy ziplines or tour a coffee plantation.
Day 6: Monteverde/La FortunaTravel from Monteverde to La Fortuna. Enjoy free time for optional activities such as whitewater rafting, waterfall rappelling, or relaxing in local hot springs.
Day 7: La FortunaEnjoy two free days in La Fortuna. Optional activities abound.
Day 8: La FortunaEnjoy two free days in La Fortuna. Optional activities abound.
Day 9: La Fortuna/Sarapiquà RainforestEnjoy an included visit to a G Adventures-supported coffee cooperative with a local lunch before heading to a jungle oasis in the Sarapiquà Rainforest.
Day 10: Sarapiquà RainforestEnjoy a day in the beautiful Sarapiquà Valley. Optional activities (all included in our overnight package, weather-depending) include swimming in the river, night walks, an empanada-making lesson or relax and listen to the sounds of the surrounding rainforest.
Day 11: Sarapiquà Rainforest/TortugueroHead to Tortuguero. Opt to visit the nesting grounds of the green and leatherback turtles at night (seasonal).
Day 12: TortugueroEnjoy free time to explore Tortuguero. Opt to kayak through the canals and view the wildlife, wake up early and head to the beach to watch turtle eggs hatch (seasonal), or just wander through the town.
Day 13: Tortuguero/Puerto Viejo de TalamancaHead to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Enjoy free time to explore paradise. Opt to go snorkelling in the Caribbean or take it easy and explore La Isla Botanical Gardens before hitting the beach.
Day 14: Puerto Viejo de TalamancaHop on a bike and ride to the beach with our CEO. Enjoy a full day exploring this slice of paradise in Puerto Viejo. In the evening, opt to find the best place to watch the sunset and don't forget to try some fantastic Afro-Caribbean cuisine.
Day 15: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca/San JoséEnjoy free time in the morning before heading back to San Jose for the final night with the group.
Day 16: San JoséDepart at any time.