Highlights of Costa Rica
Home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and an astonishing diversity of wildlife, Costa Rica has long been a leader in conservation and the protection of natural heritage.
Experience this gorgeous Central American nation on a fun-filled adventure, taking you from the foot of an active volcano to the misty highlands and Pacific coast.
Hear from a researcher at the National Geographic–supported Monteverde Institute, learn the art of tortilla-making with a local family, and seek out the country’s unique creatures—from blue morpho butterflies to howler monkeys—on hikes through the forest.
Is this tour for me?
Travel Style: National Geographic Journeys
Greater exploration, insider access, and the freedom to roam – all without sacrificing comfort.
Service Level: Upgraded
Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.
Physical Rating: 2 - Light
Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.
Trip Type: Small Group
Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 12.
Age requirement: 12+
All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Day 1
San José
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
Day 2
San José/La Fortuna
Awake in the Costa Rican capital and take a tour of a G Adventures–supported coffee cooperative. Meet local farmers, observe shade-grown coffee plants, and 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 the town of La Fortuna, situated at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. This evening, we’ll 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.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Your G for Good Moment
Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative Tour|
Your Journeys Highlight Moment
Tortilla Making and Home Dinner
Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 3
La Fortuna
Spend the day on your own, exploring La Fortuna and its surrounding areas. In 1968, the Arenal Volcano erupted after centuries of laying dormant, converting this quiet agricultural town into a hot spot for adventure travel. Choose to go stand-up paddle boarding on the tranquil waters of Lake Arenal; relax in the shadow of Arenal Volcano at a naturally heated outdoor spa; take a boat tour of Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, one of the world’s most important wetlands; and more.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Your Discover Moment
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 4
La Fortuna/Monteverde
Travel from La Fortuna to the leafy cloud forests of Monteverde—a nature lover’s paradise. This afternoon, choose to discover Monteverde’s breathtaking wilderness on a zip-lining adventure in the birthplace of the canopy tour, gliding high above the treetops or zooming through the misty foliage at exhilarating speed.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 5
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. Afterward, visit 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.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Your Journeys Highlight Moment
Monteverde Institute Lecture
Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Day 6
Monteverde/Manuel Antonio
Leaving the cloud forest behind, head 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 go surfing, or sailing. You can also spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7
Manuel Antonio
Discover the lush tropical forests and white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. 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. Opt to take a surfing lesson, go horseback riding, or kayak through the mangroves.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 8
Manuel Antonio/San José
Return to San José. Tonight, choose to join the group for a farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 9
San José
Depart at any time.
Meals included: Breakfast