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Green Season Highlights

from £3920 excluding flights

  • 12 nights
  • May-Oct
Home Destinations Americas Costa Rica Green Season Highlights

Highlights

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Marvel at Poas Volcano’s huge crater

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Snorkel and hike in Cahuita National Park

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Spot toucans and caimans in the canals of Tortuguero

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Enjoy the beaches of Puerto Viejo

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Float down the Sarapiqui and Pacuare Rivers

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Explore the vibrant capital of San Jose

Why this trip...

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Explore at leisure

With the route, transport and accommodation sorted, each day offers the freedom to explore

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Inclusive but flexible

Meals and activities are included in this holiday to provide the best value but can be tailored

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Well-researched route

We've put our years of experience into creating this well-paced itinerary that includes the places we know you'll enjoy

Make the most of Costa Rica’s quieter green season with this carefully designed itinerary, showcasing the best of the east and its drier climate. You’ll get to explore the capital, San Jose, hike at the mighty Poas Volcano, and float through Sarapqiqui’s rainforest at its best and most verdant. Plunge into the wild jungles and rivers of Pacuare and savour the distinctive flavours of the Caribbean Coast. You’ll also have time to cruise the maze-like canals of Tortuguero, and relax with some all-important beach time in laid-back Puerto Viejo.

Starting with 2 nights in downtown San Jose, you’ll have the opportunity to experience this often overlooked bustling capital city. Explore at leisure, check out one of the up-and-coming barrio’s excellent eateries and enjoy a guided tour taking in the city’s key attractions.

From here you’ll head north to the Poas Volcano, known for its vast and spectacular crater. After spending a night in a cosy lodge you’ll continue to the dense tropical rainforests of Sarapiqui, perhaps stopping at a coffee estate for a taster en-route. Enjoy a memorable couple of days learning about the diversity of the fauna of this region, as well as an included river float for maximum wildlife spotting opportunities.

Next stop is the renowned Tortuguero National Park, where you’ll spend a few days exploring the wildlife-filled canals, learning about this fascinating ecosystem and its inhabitants. You can also witnessing green sea turtles nesting or hatching if you visit between June and November.

The remote and wild Pacuare river region is your next destination, surrounded by rich jungle and an array of endemic flora and fauna. Enjoy your pick of included tours during your stay and enjoy the tropical soundtrack of the roaring river and cheery birdsong.

After leaving the forest (by raft if you fancy!) you’ll continue to Puerto Viejo on the Southern Caribbean coast, an area famed for its fantastic beaches and laid-back Caribbean vibes. Here you can soak up the best of Costa Rica’s sunshine, especially during September and October when it’s at its wettest on the Pacific Coast.

Itinerary

The itinerary shown is an example of this self-drive holiday. We have many other route recommendations which can be tailored to your requirements. Please discuss with our Travel Specialists who can put together a bespoke itinerary for you.

Upon arrival you’ll be met and transferred to your downtown hotel in San Jose. If time permits take a walk around the bustling streets to soak up the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle of the locals. Or take a taxi to the trendy Barrio Escalante area, renowned for upscale eateries and fantastic bars.

This morning is free to explore before embarking on a guided afternoon/evening tour of San Jose. You’ll discover historic buildings, including the impressive National Theatre, visit lively markets, and get to sample locally produced coffee and chocolate. Your day ends with a tasty dinner in a private home in the charming Barrio Amon district.

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After breakfast your hire car will be delivered to your hotel, ready for you to embark on the scenic journey through the Central Valley to Poás Volcano. You’ll notice the cooler air as you ascend into this beautiful region so ensure you have warm layer handy for your guided visit to view this mighty volcano. After marveling at the impressive crater continue to your lodge to enjoy its peaceful and serene surroundings.

Today you’ll continue into the warmer lowlands and the lush green tropical forests of Sarapiqui. En route you may wish to take a break at the Doka Coffee Estate to learn about the coffee making process and sample Costa Rica’s world class coffee. Sarapiqui is perfect for relaxation and adventure in equal measures. Enjoy exploring the nature trails at your lodge today and learn about the incredible biodiversity of the region.

Sarapiquí’s daily rain and humid climate make it ideal for river adventures. A short ride from your lodge brings you to the river for a peaceful Safari Floating Tour on an inflatable raft. No expertise is needed as the river’s gentle flow lets you enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest. During the two-hour expedition, your guide will share information about the local wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, birds, and iguanas. The rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes will amaze you throughout the tour.

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Leaving Sarapiquí this morning you’ll head towards the Caribbean coast to the enchanting Tortuguero National Park. Leaving your car at Guapiles, you’ll be transferred to the river from where you’ll take a boat through the wildlife filled canals into the heart of Tortuguero. After lunch at your lodge, you’ll visit the colorful local village to learn about their life here, and gain an insight into the conservation projects that protect the area’s green sea turtles. Later you’ll have time to explore the hotel trails and relax by the swimming pools before dinner at the lodge.

Today you’ll embark on an exploration by boat of some of the secondary canals in this paradisiacal place. You might spot an abundance of wildlife including monkeys and caimans, as well as numerous exotic birds such as toucans and macaws. After lunch you can take an optional excursion back on the canals, hike up Tortuguero Hill, or simply relax in the beautiful gardens. During June- September we recommend an optional night experience to see the turtles nesting or hatching on the nearby beaches – one of the most impressive events in the natural world.

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Today will be an exciting travel day as you head back inland to the Pacuare Region. First transfer by boat from your lodge back to your car at La Pavona, and make your way to Siquirres. Here you’ll park up (free of charge) and transfer by 4WD to the remote Pacuare Lodge, on the banks of the Pacuare River. Prepare to be awestruck by this magical place. Simple and yet sophisticated, the indigenous-inspired architecture, pristine rainforest, exquisite farm-to-table cuisine, and luxurious, well-appointed suites come together to offer an experience like no other.

Awaken this morning to the harmonious melody created by the sounds of the river and the sweet songs of tropical birds… and maybe a noisy howler monkey too! Enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings or take part in one the optional activities offered at the lodge, such as birdwatching, an indigenous experience, or a guided hike. Thanks to its proximity to the Caribbean lowlands this area has an extraordinary abundance of impenetrable rainforest, providing protection for jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths and many species of birds and plants.

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After a delicious buffet breakfast, you can depart the lodge in style by river raft (land transfers are also available). If rafting out, you’ll stop to explore side streams that lead to stunning waterfalls and pools, as well as braving a few rapids. After a riverside lunch and a change into dry clothes you’ll continue your journey to Puerto Viejo. The southern coast of the Caribbean is a truly wonderful place for those who seek to relax and enjoy the sun, the beach and the sea breeze. It also offers a unique cultural mix, evident in its small rustic hotels and varied culinary options. You’ll have a 3-night stay by the beautiful beach of Playa Chiquita, just south of the main town.

Enjoy an included trip to the stunning Cahuita National Park. You’ll spend 2 hours snorkeling amongst beautiful coral reef, home to 35 coral species and diverse marine life including tropical fish and sea turtles. Afterwards you’ll continue with a 2-hour guided hike at Punta Cahuita, spotting sloths, monkeys and exotic birds. The trail also offers wonderful flora such as orchids and medicinal plants. Finish with a delicious Caribbean lunch before returning to Puerto Viejo, where you’ll also have a full day at leisure. Relax on the beach and swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean. Perhaps rent a bike, or explore the town of Puerto Viejo, with its arty shops and colourful cafes.

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Bid farewell to this beautiful corner of Costa Rica as you make your way back inland to San Jose for your onward flight.

With a wide choice of accommodation in Costa Rica, we can mix and match different grades and styles to suit your personal preference – from hotels and guest houses to wilderness glamping and idyllic lodges in stunning locations.

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Prices and Departures

Price from £3920 excluding flights

Airfares are quoted separately to the holiday price. When enquiring, our Travel Specialists will provide the best fare possible from your preferred airline / airport.
Note: Airfares tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

What's Included

  • Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
  • 12 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners
  • Car rental with full insurance and WiFi
  • Private airport-hotel transfer on arrival
  • San Jose by Night Tour
  • Poas Volcano National Park Guided Tour
  • Sarapiqui River Floating Safari
  • Tortuguero Village Visit and Canals Cruise
  • Snorkel and Hike, Cahuita National Park
  • Choice of experiences at Pacuare Lodge
  • 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
  • No surcharge guarantee
  • Full financial protection

This itinerary starts from around £3,920 per person, based on 2 sharing a room with private bathroom in superior lodges & hotels, and rental of a mid-size 4WD vehicle.

Prices may vary depending on departure date and booking date, as well as any changes to the included components. The final cost of a tailored holiday will be based on the level of accommodation, size of vehicle, included activities, travel season, and how far in advance it is booked. We will confirm the exact price for your holiday in your individual quotation, based on your chosen travel dates and inclusions.

As Standard, Complete Piece of Mind

We’re listening. We always care what our fellow travellers think and love building strong customer relationships so we continuously focus on improving future experiences based on feedback. How incredible for the last three years we have received the Feefo Platinum Award.

The World's Great. Pass it On

To mark our 40th anniversary, we've launched our Education Bursary Fund to help disadvantaged school children experience the wonders of travel. A percentage of revenue from every holiday booked will go into the bursary fund to pay for at least 40 students to join one of our school trips abroad.