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Pura Vida Costa Rican Escape
Pura Vida Costa Rican Escape
LH

Highlights: San Jose - La Fortuna - Santa Elena - Jaco - Drake Bay - Monteverde - Manuel Antonio


Hotels featured:
➤ Grano de Oro 4*
➤ Arenal Manoa 4*
➤ Koora Hotel 5*
➤ Villa Caletas 
➤ Aguila de Osa 4*
➤ Santa Juana Lodge and Nature Reserve 4*
➤ So Como No Resort and Wildlife Refuge 4*


Itinerary:


Tue 10 Jun 25: Costa Rica
➤ Flights from London Heathrow Airport to Costa Rica via Frankfurt International Airport


Tue 10 Jun 25: Begin your adventure
➤ Arrive in San Jose and you will be met and taken to your hotel for your first night in San Jos where you can rest and relax before starting your adventure starting in the morning.
Accommodation: Hotel Grano de Oro
Meals: None


Wed 11 Jun 25: San Jose to La Fortuna
➤ After an early breakfast you will travel to La Fortuna. In 1968 the Arenal Volcano, which until then was an inoffensive hill, erupted and buried the community of Pueblo Nuevo. The lands of the District lost a lot of value and many of their residents left the place. However, little by little, spectacular eruptions of the volcano attracted tourists and La Fortuna passed from an agricultural area to a touristic region. Arenal is a large symmetrical volcano built upon layers of ash, rock, and lava at almost 1700 meters above sea level. Although it went into a dormant phase in 2010, its internal activity produces natural hot springs that can be enjoyed in many of the surrounding areas. At the end of the day enjoy and relax in the world-famous Hot Springs of the Arenal Volcano.
Accommodation: Hotel Arenal Manoa
Meals: Breakfast


Thu 12 Jun 25: La Fortuna
➤ Today you will depart around 11 am and start with a slow-paced hike down through 500 steps that open the way to the magnificent waterfall. On the way down your guide will point out the various species that will be found among birds and mammals. Go easy, no rush, and take in the gorgeous views you have ahead of you. Once downstairs you can refresh and swim in the pond of the great waterfall in front of you (so we recommend you wear your swimming suit prior to departing the hotel). For lunch you will meet the Rodriguez Family, who will cook a traditional lunch served by the side of a river, you will enjoy a tasteful meal and experience some of our culture, followed by a delicious and freshly brewed cup of coffee. After lunch you will visit the imposing Arenal Volcano National Park., the hike takes you around its base while you will be learning everything about the eruptions and the old lava flows, and you will see the transition of the rainforest growing in them. If you are lucky, you can see some rainforest animals too!
Accommodation: Hotel Arenal Manoa
Meals: Breakfast and lunch


Fri 13 Jun 25: Travel to Santa Elena
➤ Today you will travel between La Fortuna and Monteverde by crossing the Arenal Lake. First, by land, a vehicle will take you to the lake where you will board a boat for an approximately one-hour ride across to Monteverde. This service is the fastest and a very scenic way to travel. You can admire the beautiful views of all of the mountains, the sky, and the colossal Arenal volcano itself on your way across the lake. When you reach the other side, you will be picked up and driven to your hotel in Monteverde. It is a transfer, but also an adventure! Once you get to the 1440 meters above sea level mountain, on top of Costa Ricas continental divide, you will feel the much cooler weather of Monteverde and Santa Elena. The mountains are a popular destination for eco-tourism and adventure seekers, offering activities, such as zip-lining, hiking, and hanging bridge tours through the cloud forest. The town itself is small and charming, with a laid-back but lively atmosphere. Enjoy a free afternoon to visit the shops, ice cream parlors, cheese factories, coffee houses, or local microbreweries of Monteverde.
Accommodation: Koora Hotel
Meals: Breakfast


Sat 14 Jun 25: Hanging Bridges and Cloud Forest Night Tour
➤ Today you take a 2-hour guided hanging bridge tour, where you can discover the Costa Rican rainforest from a unique vantage point. You will walk above the trees and learn about the native plants and trees from a naturalist guide. This Monteverde tree-top tour is a must-do for any nature enthusiast. As sunset falls in the forest its nocturnal animals truly awaken. The night visit to Monteverde Reserve is an excellent opportunity to see up close the vast biological diversity of the area from another perspective. During the night, many species emerge and display a unique spectacle in which only the darkness, the stunning forest and we will witness. A flashlight will be provided for each person for a better appreciation of the 2-hour tour.
Accommodation: Koora Hotel
Meals: Breakfast


Sun 15 Jun 25: Travel to Jac via the Tarcoles River
➤ Today you transfer to the Central Pacific, as you descend from the cloud forests of Monteverde, enjoy panoramic views of verdant valleys and quaint villages. The winding roads gradually lead you through diverse ecosystems, offering glimpses of exotic wildlife and vibrant flora. Upon reaching the Central Pacific, you will be greeted by the warm, golden sands and the inviting waters of destinations like Jac, Manuel Antonio, and Puntarenas, perfect for relaxation and adventure. Make a stopover at Tarcoles River to see the big crocodiles! Jump in a boat and venture out to experience an exciting adventure spotting crocodiles, exotic birds, and jungle wildlife like monkeys, iguanas, and basilisks. Navigate through dense mangrove forests and lush jungles while enjoying the breathtaking tropical scenery. The knowledgeable captain and guide will provide you with fascinating insights into the fauna and flora of the river.
Accommodation: Villa Caletas
Meals: Breakfast


Mon 16 Jun 25: Travel to Drake Bay
➤ Today you will transfer to Sierpe before getting to the Pacific coastline. In Sierpe you board a boat that will finally take you to your next destination in Costa Rica, Drake Bay. The legend tells that the bay was discovered by Sir Francis Drake during his journeys around the world in the 16th century and that somewhere in this bay he hid his treasures. Even though one might not find gold and diamonds here, the area is truly home to some of Costa Ricas natural treasures. Drake Bay is part of Osa and Corcovado National Park and is the true dream destination for adventurers and nature explorers. The area was called the most Biological Diverse Region of Earth by National Geographic! Here you can hike through the deep and verdant jungle spotting birds and animals. Drift away on the never-ending deserted beaches or merge with the ocean while snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or dolphin watching.
Drake Bay is the land of adventures waiting to be discovered.
Accommodation: Aguila de Osa
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner


Tue 17 Jun 25: Corcovado National Park
➤ Today you will visit the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park. These are considered the most biologically diverse places on Earth and the jewel on the crown of Costa Rica national parks! A must-see for wildlife and nature lovers, Corcovado is one of the less accessible parks in Costa Rica, and this means fewer tourists visit this area, making it all the more appealing. This wild, untamed region is home to the only tropical primary lowland rainforest in the world and is a sanctuary for many endangered flora and fauna. It protects over 140 different mammal species, 400 bird species, 20 of which are endemic, 116 amphibian and reptile species, 40 species of fish, and at least 500 species of trees in its amazing and diverse habitats of beaches, mangroves, swamps, forest, and palm groves. Your guide will show you some of the best spots to admire the abundant biodiversity of Corcovado and see animals like the tamandua, the tapir, or the peccary.
Accommodation: Aguila de Osa
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner


Wed 18 Jun 25: Sail to Cao Island
➤ Today youll take a boat trip to the wonderful, untouched Cao Island the gem of the South Pacific of Costa Rica! The waters around Cano Island are renowned as one of the world's best snorkeling and diving areas, with amazing coral reefs and some of the most abundant and varied marine life in the world. The island itself has Pre Columbian architectural remains and it is believed to have once been a pirate hideout some say it was the inspiration for Robert Stevenson's book Treasure Island As you sail to the island you have the opportunity to see dolphins, whales, sea turtles, rays and other magnificent marine animals and take the chance to snorkel amongst them if you wish!
Accommodation: Aguila de Osa
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner


Thu 19 Jun 25: Central Pacific Coast
➤ After an early breakfast, you begin your adventure with a boat ride from Drake Bay, gliding through the serene waters of the Sierpe River, surrounded by mangroves and rich wildlife. As you arrive in Sierpe, you will visit the Sierpe Mangrove and river on a boat. Nationally designated as a Forest Reserve in 1977 and registered as a Wetlands International RAMSAR site in 1995, the Sierpe Terraba Mangroves National Wetlands are located near the Osa Peninsula approximately 45 minutes south of Uvita Bahia Ballena and encompass 30,654 ha. The wetland reserve is a bird and nature tour attraction and hosts an important habitat of many species of birds, fish, shellfish, mammals, and reptiles. Then you will take the road that takes you through rolling hills and lush rainforests. The journey offers breathtaking views of diverse landscapes, from verdant mountains to charming rural communities. Finally, arrive at the picturesque village of Santa Juana, nestled in the mountains above Manuel Antonio. Here, youll experience authentic Costa Rican culture, stunning natural beauty, and a sense of tranquility that perfectly complements your adventure.
Accommodation: Santa Juana Lodge and Nature Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner


Fri 20 Jun 25: Travel to Manuel Antonio
➤ Today you will experience the enchanting fusion of verdant nature and Costa Rica's rural countryside. Accompanied by certified guides, immerse yourself in a journey of nature conservation and rural culture. Trek through the verdant slopes of the jungle, where two rivers are born, then plunge into a crystal-clear natural pool beneath a captivating waterfall and witness the fascinating wildlife. Afterward, you will enjoy a traditional Campesino-style lunch at the lodge, while gazing out at the breathtaking panorama of Manuel Antonio National Park and the vast Pacific Ocean. Then you transfer to Manuel Antonio, the beaches are beautiful and popular, the National park is well known for its biodiversity in a small area where you can easily spot monkeys, sloths, coatis, and others, so it's an optional visit for those who want to explore its trails. However, the white sand beach and the warm ocean will give you the opportunity to relax and enjoy the tropics to its fullest extent. Enjoy a free afternoon to enjoy the beach and the hotel.
Accommodation: Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge
Meals: Breakfast and lunch


Sat 21 Jun 25: Manuel Antonio National Park
➤ Today you visit the famous Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most visited parks in Costa Rica. It is a unique protected Rainforest by some of the most amazing beaches of the Central Pacific. A guide will take you there to observe the abundant wildlife in its natural and breathtaking habitat. You will be able to spot sloths, raccoons, and some species of monkeys that travel through the tree canopy, playing with each other and searching for insects and tropical fruits to eat. You will also be able to see several types of reptiles and birds.
Accommodation: Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge
Meals: Breakfast


Sun 22 Jun 25: Mon 23 Jun 25 - Relax
➤ Enjoy the next two days relaxing on the beach soaking up the sun.
Accommodation: Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge
Meals: Breakfast


Tue 24 Jun 25 - Departure Day
➤ It's time to say goodbye to Costa Rica and head back to San Jose airport, with amazing memories of your wonderful Costa Rican adventure.
Meals: Breakfast


Prices & Departures:
Deposit £200pp
➤ Z04115 Heathrow from £5399pp
➤ Z05735 Manchester from £5409pp
➤ Z05739 Glasgow from £5455pp
➤ Z05745 Birmingham from £5409pp
➤ Z05747 Dublin from £6135pp


Terms & Conditions:
Based on 2 Adults Sharing



Offer Includes

  • International Flights from Heathrow
  • 1 Night stay at Hotel Grano de Oro, San Jose with Bed & Breakfast
  • 2 Nights stay at Hotel Arenal Manoa, La Fortuna with Bed & Breakfast
  • 2 Nights stay at Koora Hotel, Santa Elena with Bed & Breakfast
  • 1 Night stay at Villa Caletas, Jaco with Bed & Breakfast
  • 3 Nights stay at Aguila de Osa, Drake Bay on Full Board
  • 1 Night stay at Santa Juana Lodge and Nature Reserve, Central Pacific Coast on Full Board
  • 4 Nights stay at So Como No Resort and Wildlife Refuge, Manuel Antonio with Bed & Breakfast
  • Tour of Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna Waterfall with Lunch
  • Hanging Bridges in Monteverde
  • Night walk in Monteverde Cloud Forest
  • Tarcoles River Crocodile Safari in Carara National Park
  • Tour of Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Tour of Corcovado National Park
  • Boat trip and snorkel adventure at Cano Island including lunch
  • Boat tour with a local guide through the Sierpe River
  • Rural Mountain Adventure through the jungle in Quepos including lunch
  • Private transfers and shared Boat trips to Drake Bay

Meal Plans

  • As per Itinerary