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south-america·Multi-day tour·13 days

13-Day Costa Rica Active Adventure Tour from San Jose: Monteverde, La Fortuna, Pacuare and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca | Small Group

4.9· 5 reviewsSelect Meals Included

What you'll experience

Highlights

• Paddle through world-class rapids on the Pacuare River
• Mountain bike in the shadow of Arenal Volcano
• Chill out to the sounds of crashing Caribbean waves
• Stand up on a surfboard in Puerto Viejo

13 days

Day-by-day itinerary

  1. 1

    Day 1 — San José

    Arrive at any time.
    There are no planned activities during the day, so check in to the hotel and explore the city. If you arrive early enough, you'll have time to explore the city.
    【Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group】
    Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Fleur de Lys
  2. 2

    Day 2 — San José - Monteverde

    Drive through Costa Rica's beautiful countryside to Monteverde to explore the verdant cloud forest and enjoy the surrounding area.
    Today's ride can be a bumpy ride on some unpaved roads, but the views along the way are spectacular. Opt to prebook the Monteverde Guided Night Walk for a spectacular evening introduction to this magnificent place.

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Historias Lodge
  3. 3

    Day 3 — Monteverde

    Enjoy a free day for optional activities in and around Monteverde like ziplining, horseback riding, or touring the cloud forest.
    Your CEO will let you know about all the activities available and help you pick the best option for you.
    Get your adrenaline pumping and pre-book the Costa Rica Adrenaline Bundle on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
    【Free Time】
    Spend free time in Monteverde exploring the cloud forest or visiting nearby attractions.

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Historias Lodge
  4. 4

    Day 4 — Monteverde - La Fortuna

    Travel through rolling hills and across a lake to La Fortuna, where there is free time to explore.
    The town of La Fortuna lies near the base of the Arenal Volcano and is a perfect launch pad to go wild and let the adrenaline flow with a range of adventure sports.
    【Free Time】
    Free afternoon in La Fortuna. Experience the outdoor adventures, amazing wildlife and natural wonders in this area.

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Arenal Rabfer Hotel
  5. 5

    Day 5 — La Fortuna

    Enjoy a free day in La Fortuna. Opt to go whitewater rafting, waterfall rappelling, paddleboarding or one of the many other optionals this region has to offer. Spend another day getting your adrenaline pumping, viewing local wildlife, marveling at the Arenal Volcano and getting to know more about La Fortuna's Costa Rica.
    【Your Discover Moment】
    There's plenty to see and do in La Fortuna, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like canyoneering, whitewater rafting, and paddleboarding. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

    Arenal Volcano

    Arenal Volcano

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Arenal Rabfer Hotel
  6. 6

    Day 6 — La Fortuna

    Cycle the area around La Fortuna on a guided half-day biking tour. At night, opt to relax and soak in hot springs at the base of Arenal Volcano.
    【Arenal Cycling Trip】
    Ride on a mixture of rocky dirt and paved roads through small towns, past farms and with mountains in the distance. Total distance is approximately 15 kilometers.

    Arenal Volcano

    Arenal Volcano

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Arenal Rabfer Hotel
  7. 7

    Day 7 — La Fortuna - Pacuare

    Enjoy a two-day guided rafting expedition along the Pacuare River, stopping at times to explore on foot, then stay the night in rustic cabins built along the river.
    In the morning, transfer from La Fortuna to the put-in point for rafting on the Pacuare River. On this first day, stop down river for a short hike to explore waterfalls, and scenic, hidden canyons. In the evening, stay at a jungle lodge on the banks of the Pacuare River in a scenic, but remote location.
    【Pacuare Guided Rafting Expedition – Day 1】
    Raft down class III-IV rapids on the Pacuare River toward our remote jungle lodge. Explore the surrounding rainforest and waterfalls on a network of hiking trails and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the untouched natural environment. Continue paddling past waterfalls and through canyons. Stop for the first of two nights for a well-deserved rest.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: IncludedStay: Ave Sol Sanctuary Lodge
  8. 8

    Day 8 — Pacuare

    Get off the river for the day to explore the jungle by foot.
    【Pacuare Rainforest Guided Hike】
    Explore the surrounding rainforest on foot. Hike with local guides to see waterfalls, swim in small streams and learn about the natural environment that is home to the Cabecar indigenous peoples. Relax in a hammock and enjoy the sounds of tropical birds calling above the roar of the rushing river.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: IncludedStay: Ave Sol Sanctuary Lodge
  9. 9

    Day 9 — Pacuare - Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    Continue down river to the take-out point, then travel to the Caribbean coastal town of Puerto Viejo.
    【Pacuare Guided Rafting Expedition – Day 2】
    Get back on the river for a final morning of rafting Pacuare's class III-IV rapids. Take a long look, jump out for a swim, then paddle to the put out point and head back to base camp.
    【Free Time】
    Take some time by the shore of the Caribbean Sea in Puerto Viejo. There's plenty of activities to enjoy, or take the time simply to relax.
    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Maritza
  10. 10

    Day 10 — Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    The Caribbean is famous for its sun, sand and surf. Hop on a bike and take a ride to the beach, then pull on a rash guard, grab a big board and get ready to hang ten like a local with an included surf lesson.
    The picturesque village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is known for its incomparable white- and black-sand beaches surrounded by exotic tropical vegetation. Rent a bike or hire a boat to Manzanillo. Try snorkelling or take it easy and and explore La Isla Botanical Gardens.
    【Biking Puerto Viejo】
    This morning, jump on a bike and take a ride around to a nearby beach with your CEO. You'll be out exploring and enjoying the scenery all day around Puerto Viejo.
    Start time: 9 AM
    End time: 5 PM
    【Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson】
    Grab your swimsuit and get ready to hang ten! Learn how to find and ride the waves with surfing lessons from local experts. Enjoy the fresh sea air, and try to spot local marine life while enjoying the waters.
    【Free Time】
    Free time to enjoy the beach and laid-back Afro-Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo. Don't worry, be happy.

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Maritza
  11. 11

    Day 11 — Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    Enjoy free time in Puerto Viejo and soak up the sun on the Caribbean. The warm turquoise water is ideal for swimming, fishing, kayaking, boogie boarding, and surfing. Opt to take a boat trip, snorkel the nearby reefs, or cycle down the coast.
    【Your Discover Moment】
    ​​​​​​​
    There's plenty to see and do in Puerto Viejo, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like snorkelling, biking, and hiking in the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Maritza
  12. 12

    Day 12 — Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - San José

    Return to San José and take advantage of a final day to shop for souvenirs (coffee anyone?).

    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Fleur de Lys
  13. 13

    Day 13 — San José

    Depart at any time.
    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

What's included

Included

  • Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
  • Your Discover Moment: La Fortuna
  • Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson
  • Your Discover Moment: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
  • Overnight Pacuare River rafting trip
  • Guided hike (Pacuare River)
  • Guided cycling excursion (La Fortuna)
  • Bike ride (Puerto Viejo)
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  • Accommodations: Hotels (10-night), jungle lodge (2-night)
  • Transportation: Public bus, private vehicle, bicycle, boat, raft, hiking
  • Staff & experts: CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides
  • Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners (Allow USD460-600 for meals not included)

Not included

  • Airfares or related transportation between your home and destination
  • All personal expenses including hotel room service and meals; however, you have the option to pay for meals that tour guide arranges
  • Optional tours (Items and prices may vary due to different seasons and are subject to the final confirmation made by tour guide when on tour.)
  • It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Tipping of your Chief Experience Officer is very much appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $5- 7 USD per person, per day is our recommendation in the region. However, if you felt your CEO did an especially outstanding job, any additional amount will always be welcome.

Cancellation policy

When you cancelRefund
0–31 days before0%
32–61 days before50%
62+ days before90%
Read the full cancellation terms
• We are not responsible for any incidental expenses or consequential losses that the Client may have incurred as a result of the booking such as visas, vaccinations, non-refundable flights or rail, non refundable car parking or other fees, loss of earnings, or loss of enjoyment, etc. If the Client is offered a refund but requests an alternative tour of a higher value than that originally booked, then the Client must pay the difference in price.

Important info

Special notes
  • Dossier Disclaimer
    * The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
    * VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
  • Itinerary Disclaimer
    * While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
    * Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
  • Important Notes
    * Costa Rica will not be allowing anyone to enter the country without proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.). If you are travelling through a few countries in Central America, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination. Please print the itinerary and voucher and bring it with you.
    * You should NOT participate in rafting if you fall into any of the following categories - pregnant, have had major surgery in the last 6 months or major injury e.g. spine or neck problems.
  • Group Leader Description
    * All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
  • Meals
    * Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with us you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to group trips.
    * Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
  • What to Take
    * We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying and handling your own luggage.
  • Laundry
    * Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
  • Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Pricing notes (children, single supplement)
* Price for Single Occupancy applies when you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room.
* Children under 12 years of age are not permitted on this tour.
* All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
* Child shares the same price as adult.

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$1999

NPR 2,69,865