Skip to content
south-america·Multi-day tour·14 days

14-Day Explore Costa Rica Tour from San José【Max 16 Pax Small Group】: La Fortuna, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio

★ 4.4· 9 reviewsDaily breakfastSelect Meals Included

What you'll experience

Highlights

• 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners included
• Hear a lecture from a researcher at the Monteverde Institute
• Learn how to make tortillas during a visit to a local family home
• Spot wildlife while cruising the canals of Tortuguero
• Enjoy spectacular volcano views while soaking in hot springs
• Learn all about sea turtles at the Sea Turtle Conservancy

14 days

Day-by-day itinerary

  1. 1

    Day 1 — Home - San José

    Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
    If you arrive early enough, you'll have time to head into the city to visit a museum or the main plaza in the city center.
    The plaza is a good place to people-watch. A mime, juggler, marimba band, magician, or storyteller may be performing for whatever is collected when the hat is passed. Artisan booths are common, creating a regular arts and crafts fair atmosphere.
    【Private Vehicle】
    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
    【Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting】
    The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
    Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Radisson San Jose
  2. 2

    Day 2 — San José - Tortuguero

    Travel by land and motorized canoe to Tortuguero National Park. Located on the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero-translated as "land of the turtles"- is one of the world's most important nesting sites for the endangered green sea turtle. Settle into our secluded lodge, then enjoy a guided boat trip along Tortuguero's tropical waterways. Afterward, visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy, the world's oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting sea turtles. Founded in 1959, the organization was inspired by the work of pioneering conservationist and National Geographic Grantee Archie Carr. Later, enjoy time to relax at the lodge pool, take a stroll along the beach, or head out on a kayaking excursion.
    Enjoy a delicious Costa Rican breakfast en route as we transfer by road then boat through the famous canals of Tortuguero. This tropical eco-paradise is home to countless bird and animal species, and you will have many opportunities to view and photograph wildlife.
    The tropical rainforest gives way to prime secluded beaches, ideal nesting grounds for green turtles (nesting July through October), loggerhead, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles (nesting March through June). We cannot guarantee you will see turtles, but that odds are fairly good from July through October.
    【Private Vehicle】
    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
    【Motorized Canoe】
    Climb in and move swiftly through the water to the next stop.”
    【Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Sea Turtle Conservancy Experience】
    Visit and meet one of the researchers at the Sea Turtle Conservacy program, a non-profit organization where we learn about the research and conservation initiatives that have been instrumental in saving the Caribbean green turtle from extinction. Learn about the four species of sea turtles found in Tortuguero and discuss the main activities at the station including track surveys, biometric data collection and tagging, satellite tracking, nest excavations, environmental education and outreach. We also discuss raising awareness and protection for sea turtles across the globe. The Conservancy was co-founded by Archie Carr, a National Geographic grantee, for his studies in green sea turtle ecology.
    Tortuguero National Park

    Tortuguero National Park

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: IncludedStay: Turtle Beach Lodge
  3. 3

    Day 3 — Tortuguero

    This morning, we'll explore the wildlife-rich canals of Tortuguero National Park once more, seeking out howler, spider, and capuchin monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birds.
    There's plenty of opportunity to see a variety of birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. In your downtime, relax at the secluded lodge on a hammock or at the pool or beach. You also have the option to take a kayaking excursion.
    【Tortuguero National Park Guided Boat Tour】
    Hop on board, kick back, and prepare to witness a parade of tropical birds, reptiles, and mammals as we motor through the black water canals of the Tortuguero NP. Scan the trees for toucans, watch the shores for caimans, otters, iguanas and frogs, and look up to see monkeys sharing space with sloths. Bring your binoculars and bug spray. Be prepared for hot, humid, and possibly wet weather.
    【Guided Jungle Walk】
    Take a guided walk along the trails surrounding the lodge to learn more about the flora and fauna of the jungle. Learn about the delicate ecosystem and get a close-up view of some of the frogs and insects that play an important part in nature's cycle.
    Duration: About 1hr depending on weather conditions
    Distance: 1.5km
    Tortuguero National Park

    Tortuguero National Park

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: IncludedStay: Turtle Beach Lodge
  4. 4

    Day 4 — Tortuguero - La Fortuna

    Depart early for the town of La Fortuna, situated at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. En route, visit a supported coffee cooperative to gain insight into the process of coffee production, from bean to cup. After a typical lunch-accompanied by an aromatic cup of coffee-continue to La Fortuna. Check in to your hotel and unwind by the pool, taking in views of the surrounding jungle, the verdant hills, and the dark silhouette of the volcano.
    【Boat】
    Climb aboard and get your float on.
    【Private Vehicle】
    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
    【Your G for Good Moment: Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative Tour】
    Find out where your cup of java comes from. Visit the Mi Cafecito coffee cooperative in San Miguel de Sarapiqui, see shade-grown coffee plants, learn about everything from harvesting, to husking, drying, and roasting the beans before enjoying the best part – a fresh cup! Enjoy a typical lunch of plantains, beans, and freshly caught tilapia fish. Feel good about all this eating and drinking knowing that you are supporting a Good project that helps 200 farmers and their families.
    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Monte Real
  5. 5

    Day 5 — La Fortuna

    Spend the day exploring La Fortuna and its surrounding areas on your own. In 1968, the Arenal Volcano erupted after centuries of laying dormant, converting this quiet agricultural town into a hot spot for adventure travel. This evening, visit a local home to learn how to make tortillas. Chat with your welcoming hosts and dig into a traditional Costa Rican meal of black beans, plantains, and your own handmade tortillas.
    【Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Tortilla Making and Home Dinner】
    Learn the art of tortilla making from Doña Mara in her family home. Grind the corn, mix the "masa" (dough) into balls, flatten into circles, and then cook them up on a wood-burning stove. Relax with a fresh tropical fruit juice, get to know the family, and hear about the history of tortillas. Afterwards, dig into a tasty "casado" – a typical Costa Rican dish including black beans and plantains – complete with your own hand-made tortillas.
    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Hotel Monte Real
  6. 6

    Day 6 — La Fortuna

    Enjoy a full free day in La Fortuna. Choose to go stand-up paddleboarding on the tranquil waters of Lake Arenal, or set off on a hike within the Arenal Volcano National Park. Take a boat tour of the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, one of the world's most important wetlands; or relax in the shadow of Arenal Volcano at a naturally heated outdoor spa.
    【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: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Monte Real
  7. 7

    Day 7 — La Fortuna - Monteverde

    From La Fortuna, we make our way by road and boat to the misty mountain region of Monteverde. Spend two days exploring this charming little town and the nearby cloud forest reserve-a nature lover's paradise.
    【Boat】
    Climb aboard and get your float on.
    【Private Vehicle】
    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    【Optional Activities】
    Guided Cloud Forest Night Walk
    Join a naturalist guide for a 1.5-2 hour tour in the cloud forest after dark. Learn more about the habits of the area's nocturnal wildlife including mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians, and keep your eyes and ears open on this slow-paced walk. You never know what you might see – it depends on the day and your luck!
    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: El Establo Hotel
  8. 8

    Day 8 — Monteverde

    Set out on a hike in the stunning Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, treading past giant ferns and vibrant orchids. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the resplendent quetzal—a sacred bird in Maya and Aztec cultures. In your free time, embark on a zip-lining adventure, gliding high above the treetops and zooming through the misty foliage.
    【Santa Elena Cloud Forest Guided Tour】
    Pull on your poncho and boots. It's time to head into the cloud-covered forest, past over-sized ferns and exotic orchids. Harness your inner Tarzan and Jane as you imagine swinging from the giant vines. Walk along 2 to 3km (about 1.5 mi) of trails at a leisurely pace, watch for wildlife, and trek to the top of the observation tower. Be sure to stop and listen, too. Hear the haunting call of the bellbird and perhaps catch sight of the brilliant green and red resplendent quetzal. Feel good about protecting the forest and sustaining the quality of local schools through payment of your park fees.

    【Optional Activities】
    CASEM Coop Visit
    CASEM—the Cooperative of Artisans Santa Elena Monteverde—is an inspiring example of female empowerment and teamwork. By focusing on providing women artisans with the opportunity to gain economic independence and develop new skills, this G for Good Project helps improve the quality of life for its members and strengthens the community. Through the marketing of their products, CASEM Coop not only supports its 90 artisan members, but also promotes the culture and traditions of the Monteverde region. Stop by the restaurant on your way out to try some delicious local food!
    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: El Establo Hotel
  9. 9

    Day 9 — Monteverde

    Pay a visit to the Monteverde Institute, a research and educational organization supported by National Geographic. Hear from a researcher about some of the institute's conservation initiatives, including a successful reforestation project; then roll up your sleeves and head to the nursery to help plant trees and collect data for the project. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, opting to visit the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens to see dozens of local species, explore forest trails, or go zip-lining.
    【Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Monteverde Institute Lecture & Reforestation Project】
    The Monteverde Institute has served as the base for numerous National Geographic-funded explorers and researchers studying the famed canopy of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Enjoy a lecture by one of the researchers outlining the various projects National Geographic has sponsored including new discoveries, insect and bird studies, and the reforestation of tropical regions. After, play an active role in this project, visiting the National Geographic-sponsored research plot and getting your hands dirty by either planting trees to restore habitat, assisting in tree care in the nurseries, or collecting data to provide information that will aid the success of tropical reforestation programs.
    【Your Discover Moment】
    There's plenty to see and do in Monteverde, 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 ziplining, visiting the hanging bridges, and horseback riding. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: El Establo Hotel
  10. 10

    Day 10 — Monteverde - Manuel Antonio

    Leaving the cloud forest behind, travel to Costa Rica's sweeping Pacific coast and settle into your hotel in the seaside village of Manuel Antonio. Soak up the laid-back atmosphere of the area, and opt to spend the remainder of the day relaxing on the beach.
    The white-sand beaches and warm Pacific waters are the ideal atmosphere to relax at the end of your adventure. If you opt to chill out at the beach, be sure to walk out into the sea on the incredible natural sand formation that is shaped like a whale's tale when the tide goes out.
    【Private Vehicle】
    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
    Manuel Antonio National Park

    Manuel Antonio National Park

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Villas Lirio
  11. 11

    Day 11 — Manuel Antonio

    Discover the lush tropical forests and white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided day trip. Costa Rica's smallest national park—yet one of the most spectacular—boasts an abundance of wildlife, including monkeys, armadillos, sloths, iguanas, and countless species of birds. 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.
    【Manuel Antonio National Park Visit】
    Pack your sunscreen, snack, and beach shoes and prepare for a great day in Costa Rica's smallest, yet no less stunning, national park. Manual Antonio offers four white-sand beaches separated by jagged rock outcrops and tidal pools where you can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe. When you're all beached out, head to the shade of the nearby hiking trails to search for sloths, monkeys, and armadillos. Climb to the lookout to capture views of the pristine Pacific Ocean and the area's off-shore islands. Today's walking distance within the park is 3km and will take about 2-3 hours alongside a local guide.
    Manuel Antonio National Park

    Manuel Antonio National Park

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Villas Lirio
  12. 12

    Day 12 — Manuel Antonio

    Spend a full day exploring Manuel Antonio on your own. Walk along lush jungle trails looking for toucans in the treetops. Opt to take a surfing lesson, or head out for a snorkelling excursion on the nearby reef. Kayak amid the coastal mangroves or in the open sea, keeping an eye out for dolphins and whales.
    【Your Discover Moment】
    There's plenty to see and do in Manuel Antonio, 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 visiting Manuel Antonio National Park, mangrove kayaking, and surfing. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

    【Optional Activities】

    Hiking
    Pack your sunscreen, snack, and hiking shoes. Head out for a great day in Costa Rica's smallest national park. Manual Antonio offers four white-sand beaches, separated by jagged rock outcrops and tidal pools. Hike on shaded trails to search for sloths, monkeys, and armadillos. Climb to the lookout to capture views of the pristine Pacific Ocean and the area's off-shore islands.

    SnorkellingManuel Antonio
    Book a special boat trip or simply rent a mask and fins on Playa Espadilla, just north of the entrance to Manuel Antonio's national park. Explore the reefs and volcanic rock formations in the warm salt water. Float amongst schools of tropical fish. Look for crabs and clams. Don't forget your sunscreen or, better yet, wear a t-shirt so you don't burn your back!
    Manuel Antonio National Park

    Manuel Antonio National Park

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Villas Lirio
  13. 13

    Day 13 — Manuel Antonio - San José

    Return to San José. Tonight, choose to join the group for a farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant.
    【Private Vehicle】
    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Radisson San Jose
  14. 14

    Day 14 — San José - Home

    Depart at any time. Departure day, depart at any time.
    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

What's included

Included

  • 13-night accommodations (Hotels (11 nts), rustic jungle lodge (2 nts).)
  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Sea Turtle Conservancy Experience, Tortuguero
  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Tortilla Making and Home Dinner, La Fortuna
  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Monteverde Institute Lecture & Reforestation Project
  • Your G for Good Moment: Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative Tour, Sarapiquí
  • Your Discover Moment: La Fortuna
  • Your Discover Moment: Monteverde
  • Your Discover Moment: Manuel Antonio
  • Arrival transfer
  • Boat tour and wildlife viewing in Tortuguero National Park
  • Guided nature walk in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
  • Guided excursion to Manuel Antonio National Park
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  • 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners (Allow USD470-615 for meals not included)
  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides

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.

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
  • Be prepared before you leave for your trip
    Please carefully read all of the info below as it's designed to help you have a smooth travel experience.
    * One of our core values is to lead with service. Our Global Connection Officers (or GCOs, the people who answer when you call us) and travel agent partners will do their very best to provide you with the latest information before your trip. There are, however, certain things that are the responsibility of the traveller.
    * All the travellers are responsible for arranging and obtaining the required entry documentation for the countries they intend to visit.
  • 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
    * PROOF OF DEPARTURE:
    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.
    *  WEATHER
    Be prepared for rain and lower temperatures during the winter season (June-November), especially in Costa Rica's central valley.
    *  EXTRAS
    Looking to add to your experience? Check out our Extras! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, Extras are optional add-ons to your G adventures trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Extras must be booked prior to departure, please see details in our optional activities field and ask your sales GCO or travel agent about booking.
    *  ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
    Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessar.
  • 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..
  • All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
  • About Accommodation
    * Hotels vary greatly throughout Central America and even within Costa Rica depending on the location. We do our best to pick comfortable accommodations, but in popular locations options can be limited and we often use various different hotel depending on seasonality. It also is important to remember that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common, even in upgraded hotels. We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
    * In Tortuguerro National Park we stay in a remote jungle Lodge that is only reachable by boat. Rooms are simple, with ensuite, electricity and hotel water, but due to this remote location, there can sometimes be interruptions to services. There is no A/C but each room has large-screened windows and ceiling fans to catch the breeze off the Caribbean Sea. While at the lodge during your downtime, you can enjoy the pool, bar or beach. The stunning location, wildlife and natural beauty of the location more than makes up for a few minor inconveniences.
  • 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 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.
  • Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
Pricing notes (children, single supplement)
* Price for Double applies when two people stay in one standard hotel room respectively. 
* If you are travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another traveller of the same sex.
* Tour only for person start from 12 years old.
* Maximum room capacity: 2 people.
* All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Tour operator

Tours4Fun Provider 1113

Verified

Inventory powered by tours4fun. View original listing

from

$3199

NPR 4,31,865