Costa Rica Rainforests, Volcanoes, & Beaches

From $4,450 pp

  • Duration

    14 Days

  • Bookable From

    November - September

  • Trip Style

    Self-Guided

  • Country

    Costa Rica

  • Physical Rating

    Average

Overview

Traverse Costa Rica from coast to coast, exploring rainforests, volcanoes, beaches, and wildlife from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean.

Journey from coast to coast across Costa Rica’s most breathtaking ecosystems on this epic adventure from the lush Caribbean lowlands to the pristine Pacific coast.

Glide through the lush canals of Tortuguero teeming with wildlife, uncover the secrets of the rainforest at night in Sarapiquí, and stroll among the treetops on Arenal’s hanging bridges, surrounded by rainforest and volcanic views. Continue to the unspoiled, white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio, which will invite you to unwind amid abundant wildlife. Finally, venture deep in the untamed wilderness of Corcovado on the Osa Peninsula, and sail to the turquoise waters surrounding Isla del Caño for an unforgettable encounter with these biodiverse treasures.

This immersive trip blends nature, culture, and adventure... leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica's rich biodiversity and warm hospitality.

Highlights

  • Cruise through Tortuguero’s winding canals, spotting monkeys, sloths, and vibrant tropical birds in their natural habitat.
  • Explore the charming and colorful village of Tortuguero, getting a peek into local culture, shops, and traditional life along the canals.
  • Experience a thrilling nocturnal tour in Sarapiquí, where you'll discover the nocturnal wildlife and the magic of the rainforest after dark.
  • Walk the hanging bridges in Arenal, immersing yourself in the tropical rainforest canopy and observing diverse flora and fauna.
  • Visit Manuel Antonio’s sun-drenched beaches and scenic coastal trails, keeping an eye out for playful capuchins and colorful toucans.
  • Trek through the dense jungle of Corcovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse rainforests on Earth, and spot exotic wildlife.
  • Snorkel the crystal-clear waters of Isla del Caño, admiring vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Travelers cross a hanging bridge in the Arenal tropical rainforest.
A covered boat carries a small group of travelers through the waterways of the Cano Negro wetlands in Costa Rica.
A multi-colored frog with a neon green body, orange-red eyes and feet, and blue arms clings to a green branch in Costa Rica.
The Arenal Volcano of costa Rica is shown towering over trees as the sun sets to the right.
A sunset view of Manual Antonio beach in Costa Rica.
Monkeys cuddle amidst branches in the Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica.
A whale bursts out of the water in Costa Rica.
A puma cat looks at the camera at the Corcovado Wilderness Lodge in Costa Rica.
An animal in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica is shown in the distance beyond the Manoa Hot Springs.
A sloth hugs a tree branch at the Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica.
Sunset in Costa Rica, with a red orange sky over blue water.

This unforgettable and eco-friendly journey across Costa Rica has been expertly designed with comfort and discovery in mind. It features private transfers throughout your trip, and two-to-three-night stays in handpicked eco-lodges and boutique hotels that emphasize comfort and sustainability.

You will explore some of the country’s most iconic destinations and landscapes through a combination of Private and Shared guided, authentic experiences (learn more about these experience types in the FAQ).

Over this 14-day itinerary, you will have 7 organized experiences in total, 3 of which are Private and 4 of which are Shared. All experiences are half-day excursions, leaving time for you to enjoy each area at your leisure. This offers a great balance between organized tours with private transfers and a relaxed pace where not every minute is planned for you.

Each region offers unique encounters with Costa Rica’s rich wildlife, tropical landscapes, and warm hospitality, creating a seamless, epic coast-to-coast eco-adventure that celebrates the country’s natural and cultural essence.

Seasonal Notes

Costa Rica is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences depending on what you seek—whether it's sun-soaked beaches or lush rainforests in their full vibrant glory.

Dry Season (December to April):

This is considered the high season for tourism in Costa Rica, especially on the Pacific coast. Expect sunny, warm weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. It’s the ideal time to explore national parks, visit volcanic regions, and enjoy the wildlife in its dry-season habitats. The Central Valley and most coastal areas experience pleasant temperatures, though some areas like the Caribbean may still see occasional rainfall.

Green Season (May to November):

During the rainy season, Costa Rica turns lush and green, which is why it’s often called the Green Season. Although rains are more frequent in the afternoon and evening, mornings are typically clear and perfect for outdoor activities. The green season is an excellent time for those looking to experience Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, as this period marks the peak of plant growth and animal activity. The Caribbean coast tends to receive rain throughout the year but remains fairly pleasant. Additionally, fewer tourists mean more relaxed travel conditions.

Itinerary

Day 1 San Jose [Costa Rica] (arrival day)

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Upon arrival in Costa Rica, you will be greeted at the airport by your local guide and transferred in private service to your hotel in San José. This comfortable and personalized transfer allows you to relax after your flight while your guide provides an introduction to the country’s culture and natural diversity.

After checking in at your hotel, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to rest or explore the surroundings. San José, located in the heart of the Central Valley, offers a mix of history, local markets, and charming cafés that reflect the essence of Costa Rican urban life.

Your overnight stay in San José marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey across the country.

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Accommodation: 4-star Hotel

Day 2 San Jose - Tortuguero – Village of Tortuguero Tour

Early in the morning, you will depart from San Jose to the North Caribbean Plains, where the most important attraction is the Tortuguero National Park, one of the most exuberant national parks in Costa Rica.

On the way, you will ascend through the Central Volcanic mountain range by bus, from which you will appreciate beautiful waterfalls and the always-green forests that adorn the Braulio Carrillo National Park. As you reach the Caribbean plains, you will notice a change in the climate, as it becomes a bit warmer and humid but pleasant. After breakfast on route, the journey will continue passing through banana fields and getting deeper into the rural roads until reaching a local dock where the boats are waiting to transfer you to Tortuguero. An approximate one and a half hour boat ride will take you through the canals sheltered in the jungle of the rainforest. From the boat, you will be able to admire the unique flora and fauna of this area, along with different types of birds.

Upon arrival and check-in at your selected lodge in the Tortuguero area, there could be a short briefing of the lodge and activities, followed by lunch. You'll stay at this lodge for two nights.

In the afternoon, you will visit the village of Tortuguero, where you will learn about the lifestyle of local residents. For example, you'll see the different coloring of their homes surrounded by the gorgeous canals, and understand more about the significant conservation efforts that some NGOs (non-governmental organizations) have developed to protect the sea turtles that come to spawn each year along the 20 miles of the protected coastline.

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Accommodation: 3-star Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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The Village of Tortuguero Tour is a Shared Half-Day Experience; learn more about this experience type in the FAQ.

Day 3 Tortuguero – Tortuguero National Park Tour

Today, we will visit Tortuguero National Park, which will dazzle you with its enormous biodiversity!

From the boat, you can feel a pure contact with nature in a paradise that offers visitors 2,000 species of plants and 400 species of trees, and you can observe some of the 405 different bird species.

Among mammals here are white-faced monkeys and howler monkeys, three-toed sloths, plus some endangered species such as the jaguar, ocelot, and the tapir, which is the largest in the rainforests of Latin America. There is also the presence of crocodiles, different species of turtles, and freshwater fish. Tortuguero will definitely offer a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience.

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Accommodation: 3-star Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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The Tortuguero National Park Tour is a Shared Half-Day Experience; learn more about this experience type in the FAQ.

Day 4 Tortuguero – Sarapiqui – Night Walk Tour

By midmorning, you will board again from the selected lodge to the local pier, enjoying the biodiversity present along the canals. Then, we will continue by road to the town of Guapiles or Siquirres, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch.

After lunch, you will continue your journey to Sarapiquí, a region renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and vibrant agricultural landscape. Sarapiquí is a tranquil area, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those looking to experience the rich biodiversity and rural charm of Costa Rica.

When night falls over the rainforest, an entirely new world awakens, which is a really unique and special thing to experience. This guided night walk invites you to explore the tropical forest of Sarapiquí under the cover of darkness, where you’ll discover the mysterious and fascinating creatures that only emerge after dusk. Led by an expert bilingual naturalist and equipped with a flashlight, you’ll navigate safe trails in search of iconic species like the red-eyed tree frog, leaf-cutter ants, bats, and possibly even sloths, owls, or snakes. The forest comes alive with sound, and your guide will interpret the behaviors and adaptations of the nocturnal fauna you encounter. Perfect for nature lovers of all ages, this experience offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the rainforest’s hidden nighttime life!

Check in at the selected hotel, where you will be staying just one night.

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Accommodation: 3-star Lodge
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

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The Night Walk Tour is a Private Half-Day Experience; learn more about this experience type in the FAQ.

Day 5 Sarapiqui – Arenal Volcano

Today, you will continue to the area of La Fortuna de San Carlos, where, if the weather conditions are favorable, you will be able to appreciate one of the biggest natural attractions of the country: the imposing Arenal Volcano. Its majestic volcanic cone will welcome you to the area.

Accommodation for the next three nights will be at a hotel selected in the Arenal Volcano area.

The afternoon is at your leisure to enjoy the hotel and its surroundings.

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Accommodation: 4-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Arenal Volcano – Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour

Today you will be visiting The Mistico Hanging Bridges - a major highlight for many visitors to Costa Rica.

This is a 618-acre reserve of primary forest featuring 15 hanging bridges that range in length from 15 to 330 feet. If you love nature, you will really enjoy this 2.5-hour walk across a visitor-friendly 1.8-mile course inside this beautiful, tropical rainforest.

The bridges are built of aluminum, galvanized steel, and concrete to ensure maximum security and safety. A naturalist guide will be by your side, sharing important information regarding the natural history of this place, which will open the door to this fascinating and colorful world. You will see birds, mammals, reptiles, different types of plants and trees, combined with the impressive views of both Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal.

The iconic views of the volcano from the hanging bridges in the middle of the forest are the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable experience.

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Accommodation: 4-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

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The Arenal Volcano Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour is a Private Half-Day Experience; learn more about this experience type in the FAQ.

Day 7 Arenal Volcano

This day is at your leisure to explore the area or enjoy the hotel facilities.

We highly recommend a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park (extra cost). This park protects the active, perfect cone volcano with constant moderate explosions accompanied by roars, gases, and ash emissions that rise high in the air.

The attraction of this volcano has helped to develop the area as a prime destination in the country. From being a small town of cattle and agricultural farms, it has become one of the most developed areas with hotels, tourist attractions, adventure activities, hot springs, and water sports.

In addition to the volcano, other nearby attractions are: Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, Venado Caves, La Fortuna Waterfall, and many activities such as river floating, nature walks, hot springs, canopy, Pure Trek Canyoning, rafting, hiking, and horseback riding.

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Accommodation: 4-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Arenal Volcano – Manuel Antonio

By midmorning, you will depart from your hotel in Arenal and enjoy a scenic drive through the Costa Rican landscape. You will continue your journey to Manuel Antonio, a renowned coastal destination along the Pacific Ocean famous for its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and diverse wildlife. Manuel Antonio offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Costa Rica.

Accommodation for the next two nights is at a hotel in Manuel Antonio.

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Accommodation: 4-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 Manuel Antonio – Manuel Antonio National Park Tour

Today you will visit the Manuel Antonio National Park (closed on Tuesdays).

It has a charming combination of lush tropical forest and beautiful beaches with clear waters, which has gotten the area global recognition: The beach was listed on TripAdvisor (Travelers' Choice) as the best beach in Central America, and the national park was recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the twelve most beautiful national parks in the world!

Inside the national park, there is a wide variety of vegetation, lagoons, mangroves, 109 species of mammals, and 184 bird species. You will likely see several species of birds, reptiles, monkeys, and a three-toed sloth.

The rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities or to explore the area on your own.

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Accommodation: 4-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

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The Manuel Antonio National Park Tour is a Private Half-Day Experience; learn more about this experience type in the FAQ.

Day 10 Manuel Antonio – Corcovado

After breakfast, we will continue to the South Pacific area of Costa Rica, specifically, the area of Sierpe. Upon arrival, a boat will take you across the river and the sea to the selected lodge in Corcovado, where you'll spend the next three nights.

This area of the South Pacific of Costa Rica is called "The Final Frontier" or "The Navel of Life”, and was described by National Geographic as "the most biologically intense place on Earth". This region is home to 350 species of birds, 150 species of mammals, over 100 species of reptiles and amphibians, about 5500 insects, and 500 species of trees!

Staying in Corcovado will allow you to have a deeper connection with nature, and especially appeals to those seeking a unique, eco-tourism experience.

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Accommodation: 5-star Luxury Ecolodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11 Corcovado – Corcovado National Park Tour

After breakfast, you will enjoy an excursion to Corcovado National Park, located on the Osa Peninsula. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the primary and secondary forest, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna.

The boat trip to the ranger station takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on the weather and the sea. Whenever possible, your guide will point out ocean whales, dolphins, or other marine species as we approach the park entrance.

When we arrive at the park, we will do a hike to San Pedrillo. The first part of the trail is a steep hill through the secondary jungle. Large slabs of tree trunk are strategically located for an easier walk on the ground. Just before reaching the plateau, on your left side, there will be a viewpoint overlooking the resort and the Pacific Ocean. After the hike, we'll head back to the hotel in time for lunch.

The rest of the day will be at your leisure.

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Accommodation: 5-star Luxury Ecolodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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The Corcovado National Park Tour is a Shared Half-Day Experience; learn more about this experience type in the FAQ.

Day 12 Corcovado – Caño Island Tour

This morning, you’ll depart from the lodge via boat and embark on a guided tour to the Caño Island Biological Marine Reserve. The boat ride from the lodge takes about 45 minutes, with chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and even humpback whales during certain months.

Upon arrival, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the clear waters surrounding the island, exploring vibrant coral reefs and observing an incredible variety of marine life, including tropical fish and turtles.

You can relax on the beach, enjoy the sun, or take a short walk along the shoreline before returning to the lodge for lunch.

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Accommodation: 5-star Luxury Ecolodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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The Caño Island Tour is a Shared Half-Day Experience; learn more about this experience type in the FAQ.

Day 13 Corcovado – San Jose

The sea and land transfer will get you back to San Jose today. From leaving the lodge in Corcovado, you'll arrive at the Drake airstrip, where you will take a domestic flight to San José. Upon arrival at the domestic terminal in San José, you will have a private transfer to your hotel.

The rest of the day is at your leisure.

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Accommodation: 4-star Boutique
Meals: Breakfast

Day 14 San Jose – Departure Day

After enjoying an unforgettable two weeks in Costa Rica, a private guided transfer will take you from your hotel in San José to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your return flight home.

Please note that Costa Rican immigration authorities recommend that passengers arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure in order to complete airline check-in and immigration procedures.

We hope you had a memorable stay here!

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Meals: Breakfast

Route Map

The route map for the Epic Costa Rica trip.

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • Guide for Arrival or Departure Transfer

  • Private Transfers

  • Shared Transfers (Package of Tortuguero & Corcovado)

  • 13 nights lodging (6 nights in a lodge, 6 nights in a hotel; 1 night in a boutique hotel)

  • D2 Village of Tortuguero (Shared Half-Day Experience)

  • D3 Tortuguero National Park (Shared Half-Day Experience)

  • D4 Night Walk Tour (Private Half-Day Experience)

  • D6 Arenal Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour (Private Half-Day Experience)

  • D9 Manuel Antonio National Park Tour (Private Half-Day Experience)

  • D11 Corcovado National Park Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

  • D12 Snorkeling in Isla del Caño (Shared Half-Day Experience)

  • Domestic Flight: Drake Bay to San Jose

  • Meals mentioned in the itinerary

  • International flights

  • Meals not mentioned

  • Alcohol

  • Ground transfers not mentioned

  • Personal expenses

  • Insurance

  • Visa

  • Taxes

  • Tips

Pricing

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

Prices vary by season:

  • High Season: Nov. 1, 2025 - April 30, 2026; November 2026
  • Mid Season: July 1 - Aug. 31, 2026
  • Low Season: May 1 - June 30, 2026; September 2026

  • Deposit per person

    30% of the trip price

  • Solo Traveler

    High: $8,210 Mid: $8,010 Low: $7,775

  • Shared Room - sleeps 2 - price per person

    High: $5,275 Mid: $5,150 Low: $4,990

  • Shared Room - sleeps 3 - price per person

    This room type will have two beds. High: $4,675 Mid: $4,575 Low: $4,450

  • Single Supplement

    If you're traveling with a group and prefer your own private room. High: $1,635 Mid: $1,575 Low: $1,470

Payment & Cancellation Policy

This trip is offered from November through September.

At checkout, choose your preferred departure date and pay the deposit. Yugen Earthside’s standard Payment & Cancellation Policy applies.

Book With Confidence

  • Your deposit is fully refundable for 30 days when you book 120+ days in advance and pay by bank transfer.
  • If you pay by credit card, the card processing fees are non-refundable.
  • We’ll confirm availability for your chosen dates within 3 business days. If confirmed, you’re all set! If not, we’ll help you adjust your dates or refund your deposit.

Sustainability

Since 1972, we have been committed to promoting responsible and authentic tourism in Costa Rica. We collaborate with eco-certified lodges, support conservation projects, and work closely with local communities to protect biodiversity and cultural heritage. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, from preserving national parks and marine reserves to fostering ethical economic development with small-scale farmers and artisans. We hold certifications such as the CST (Certification for Sustainable Tourism), reflecting our dedication to environmental conservation and creating meaningful travel experiences that inspire travelers while supporting local communities.

Environmental Initiatives

  • This itinerary has been carefully designed to minimize its environmental impact by prioritizing eco-friendly accommodations and guided activities.
  • Each lodge selected, from Tortuguero to Corcovado, follows sustainable practices such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting local conservation projects.
  • Tours, including the shared National Park boat trip in Tortuguero, private night walk in Sarapiquí, canopy walk in Arenal, and hikes in Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, are conducted with respect for Costa Rica's delicate ecosystems, ensuring wildlife and habitats are preserved for future generations.

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Sociocultural Initiatives

  • Guests connect with local communities through authentic experiences, including visiting Tortuguero village, learning about sustainable farming near Arenal, and engaging with local guides and rangers in national parks.
  • The trip encourages cultural exchange and education about Costa Rica’s traditions, flora, and fauna, allowing travelers to deepen their understanding of the country’s heritage while fostering meaningful connections with local residents.

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Economic Initiatives

  • This program supports the local economy by partnering with small, locally owned lodges, eco-certified tour operators, and artisans in each region visited.
  • By staying multiple nights in each location and participating in locally run excursions, guests contribute directly to the economic development of rural communities, promoting equitable growth and sustainable tourism practices across the country.

Health & Safety

Be sure you have traveler's insurance.

We are dedicated to ensuring that tourists visit a healthy and safe country. Costa Rica, with its exemplary national health system and status as one of the safest countries in the region, provides a secure environment for our visitors. Our Sustainability Handbook seeks to ensure the safety of the services customers receive. These guidelines include the selection of responsible suppliers and support for strategies that promote a safe destination, different policies that cover visitors, and participation in initiatives such as the Tourism Safety Committee of the National Chamber of Tourism.

We also provide advice for travelers upon arrival in the form of a Welcome Letter that includes Responsible Tips to Become a Sustainable Traveler.

FAQs

What does the Physical Rating of "Average" mean?

Most of the itinerary is easy and accessible—such as the boat tours in Tortuguero, the private night walk in Sarapiquí, and visits to Arenal and Manuel Antonio. However, the Corcovado National Park and Caño Island portions involve longer walks on uneven jungle trails, sometimes in humid conditions, requiring an average level of fitness and mobility. Therefore, the overall itinerary is best classified as Average, since it combines mostly easy activities with a few more physically demanding excursions that might be challenging for travelers with limited mobility or those unaccustomed to longer hikes.

What are the accommodations like?

The accommodations featured in this itinerary have been carefully selected to reflect the diversity and natural beauty of Costa Rica’s regions. From the jungle lodges of Tortuguero and Sarapiquí to the hot spring resorts in Arenal, the coastal retreats in Manuel Antonio, and the eco-lodges surrounded by pristine rainforest in Corcovado, each property offers a distinctive sense of place. Guests will enjoy comfortable rooms, warm hospitality, and authentic design inspired by the local environment. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a connection with nature, these accommodations provide the perfect balance of comfort and immersion for an unforgettable stay.

What does it mean to have a "Shared Experience"?

A Shared Experience means that you will be with other travelers during this excursion; it will not be a private experience for only your group. The Shared Experiences will respect a small group size and are a good option for travelers seeking high-quality excursions at more accessible price points.

You will only have shared excursions in Tortuguero and Corcovado, as both destinations operate on a package basis that already includes the activities.

What does it mean to have a "Private Experience"?

A Private Experience means it will just be your travel group with your private guide for the excursion.

Do you need to pay tips for our services?

We would like to inform you that tipping is not necessary for our services. Our team members are fully compensated for their work, ensuring they receive fair wages. Of course, if you feel someone has gone above and beyond, any additional gesture of appreciation is entirely up to you.

How many Private Guided Transfers will I have?

You will have two Private Guided Transfers, one upon arrival and one for your departure.
All other transfers throughout the itinerary are still private (but without a guide), except for the shared transfers to and from Tortuguero, same with Corcovado, which operate collectively due to the logistics of the area.

Which month of the year is not recommended to travel to Corcovado?

October is not recommended for traveling to Corcovado, as it coincides with the peak of the rainy season. During this month, most lodges in the area close temporarily due to weather conditions and limited accessibility to the park.

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Group Size

  • Min: 1
  • Max: 10

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