Discover sustainable travel in Costa Rica, a true haven of ecotourism. Explore stunning nature, wildlife, & culture. Carbon removals included! 

Sustainable Travel in Costa Rica | Yugen Earthside

Costa Rica is located in Central America between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and is renowned for its rich biodiversity, pristine beaches, and commitment to sustainability. With over a quarter of its land protected as national parks or reserves, it’s a haven for eco-conscious travelers seeking vibrant wildlife, lush rainforests, and immersive cultural experiences.

The best time to visit for nature and wildlife tours depends on your interests. The Dry Season (December to April) offers sunny days, ideal for beach visits, national park hikes, and wildlife spotting. The Wet or "Green" Season (May to November) brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and unique wildlife activity.

Our Costa Rica travel packages include self-guided driving trips crafted by a trusted, locally-operated partner. These responsible vacations let travelers explore the country at their own pace, driving between regions and typically staying 2-3 nights in each destination. Most days feature a half-day or full-day experience, such as a wildlife tour, coffee farm visit, or guided rainforest hike, with flexibility for rest or spontaneous discoveries.

Self-drive tours are ideal for travelers who value independence and comfort. They allow you to travel more intentionally, making stops along the way on the days when you transfer between accommodations, and also allow you to explore more of the country's off-the-beaten-path areas. 

International travelers typically fly into San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR) airports. From there, you'll have a Meet & Greet with our local partner, then you'll get set up with your rental car and be on your way!

Whether looking for nature and wildlife eco experiences, family adventures, or cultural excursions, our partner can organize your self-drive adventure in the most responsible way possible. Contact us to chat about options or start planning your custom Costa Rica trip today!

How can you know if self-guided tours are right for you? Here are 6 reasons travelers love them, along with examples of self-guided trips.

Self-Guided Tours: What are they? Why book one? | Yugen Earthside

Travel is an exciting experience, but the research and planning that goes into organizing a trip can be daunting for many. Browsing for eco-friendly accommodations, delicious local places to eat, and activities that align with your values can quickly become exhausting. Organized tours are a great option to alleviate some of the stress associated with booking your vacation. But with so many different choices of organized travel – from private tours, to small-group tours, to self-guided tours – how do you decide what is right for you?

To start off, let’s clarify what we mean by a self-guided tour. Self-guided tours are trips in which an expert handles all of the pre-departure organization and booking. Once travelers arrive, they enjoy their trip independently, without a third-party guide physically present. Whilst travelers are responsible for making their way to their accommodation each night they have complete autonomy regarding their pace throughout each day.

Self-guided tours are well-suited for walking, cycling, and driving holidays where the daily route is thoughtfully planned out for you, and your luggage is transported between pre-booked accommodations. This tour type is an ideal choice for travelers who would like assistance with organizing and booking their trip, but don’t need an escort on the actual journey. That said, self-guided trips include a GPS and 24/7 on-call support to ensure guests’ safety.

The level of support provided before and during the trip is very similar to what travelers would experience on a privately guided tour, minus the guide themself. Self-guided tours typically include the following:

Airport transfers at the beginning and end of the trip

A day-to-day route indicating the miles or kilometers to be traveled each day

Luggage transfers between points A and B each day (for walking and cycling tours) – this means that travelers only need to carry a small day pack with them as they walk or bike

Pre-arranged and booked activities along the way

Eco-friendly accommodations are booked for each night

24/7 roadside assistance (for driving tours)

Saving time on research, flexibility, and affordability without compromising on experiences are some of the reasons people opt for a self-guided tour. Many travelers also report a higher degree of self-satisfaction at the end of their trip; they truly feel a sense of accomplishment after navigating their own way across a new destination.

So what makes self-guided tours so much fun? Here are our top six reasons travelers love self-guided tours.

Keep reading to discover why so many travelers prefer this type of travel.

1. Self-guided tours save you the time and stress of researching and planning a vacation

Most of us lead busy lives. Deciding on a destination can be exciting, but the research and planning needed to organize a vacation are time-consuming. It’s hard to truly capture how long the average person spends planning a trip. Different reports estimate travelers spend anywhere from 10 hours to 30 hours or more planning a single holiday. Time spent researching and coordinating can either be fun, and an enjoyable part of the adventure overall, or stressful, and considered a necessary evil to have the trip of your dreams. Having a suggested itinerary with a pre-arranged route, pre-booked eco-friendly accommodations and activities, and comfort touches like airport transfers can remove a lot of this stress.

By booking a self-guided tour, you can minimize your time spent researching and planning whilst maximizing your time on vacation. Expert trip planners and our in-country partners are ready to take all of this stress off your hands and hand over an organized, well-planned itinerary. They’ll ensure that you’re making the most of every day, booking eco-friendly accommodations, and suggesting activities to participate in that support local people and businesses.

2. Self-guided tours have flexible departure dates

Another benefit of self-guided tours is that you are not tied down to specific departure dates. Unlike small-group tours with fixed departure dates, self-guided tours leave you completely free to accommodate your start date with your group’s schedule.

Pro tip: When considering your departure date, be sure to check for two things:

Availability: Many self-guided tours that are nature-focused – like walking and cycling tours – are only available to book during particular seasons, such as from Spring through Fall. This is for safety and to help maximize the enjoyment of the trip overall in terms of weather and other conditions. 

Seasonality: Traveling outside of the high season, when a peak number of travelers might be crowding a trail, is more sustainable. As long as conditions are comfortable enough, traveling during the shoulder season or low season helps with tourism dispersal. Tourism dispersal is about spreading out where tourists go, and how tourist money is spent throughout the year.

Once at your destination, self-guided tours give you complete autonomy to explore at a pace that suits you. You can pick your sightseeing stops along the way, decide to linger a little longer over a delicious local lunch, or set off an hour earlier to catch that gorgeous sunrise as you hike or cycle from point A to B. You can stop wherever you like, whenever you like, and how often you like. The freedom is yours!

3. Self-guided tours can be customized and tweaked until they’re just right

When you discover a self-guided walking, cycling, or driving trip, you will typically be presented with a suggested itinerary as a starting point. You can think of this as a base itinerary – a recommendation that will be fantastic as-is, but customizable if needed.

Some of the main ways people adjust self-guided itineraries:

Tweaking the length by either adding or removing a day or two on either end. Adding a day requires less distance to be covered each day, which can result in more downtime for exploring or resting.

Opting for more luxurious accommodations for a more upscale experience.

Scheduling experiences or activities along the way – such as an artisan visit or a wine tasting. These can be incorporated into days of light walking, cycling, or driving; or be planned for days of rest at certain stopping points mid-way in your trip.

For your leisure time, you’ll also be provided with suggestions and important information to ensure you’re not missing out on anything. But exactly what you choose to do in your downtime is completely up to you!

Self-guided tours are almost always the most economical option compared to privately guided tours or small-group tours. This type of tour is usually much cheaper as you are not paying to be accompanied by a guide for the duration of your trip, as you would be on a private or small-group tour. The affordability of self-guided trips makes them ideal for travelers aiming to stick to a smaller budget. 

5. Self-guided tours offer independence and freedom

With a self-guided tour, you retain the feeling of independence along with the safety of knowing everything is organized and arranged for you. This provides a great amount of freedom – much higher than what you’d experience on a private or small-group tour. Namely, this independence means you can go at your own pace each day. With walking and cycling tours, you can spend a leisurely day on the trail or move briskly to have more downtime at your destination for the evening. With driving tours, you can more easily take detours to particular points of interest along the way – such as a specific cultural heritage sight or a particularly good vantage point to watch a sunset.

Unlike travel where you plan and book everything yourself, you will never be left entirely without support. Even though you’ll be walking, cycling, or driving unattended, there will be a local support team tracking your route via GPS, ensuring a unique and safe experience. Your GPS will also include the locations of your pre-booked accommodations, as well as pre-saved suggested sites, attractions, and important places you may wish to consider visiting along the way.

Self-guided tours include 24/7 backup telephone support in English to assist you if and when required. You won’t even have to worry about your luggage, as active self-guided walking and cycling tours include organized luggage transfer throughout! This allows you to savor every moment of your trip, secure in the knowledge that all the details have been handled and that help, if needed, is just a phone call away.

6. Self-guided tours are a Covid-friendly way to travel

In 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic caused travel plans to grind to a halt across the world. Although many of us are ready to throw ourselves back into new experiences, cultures, and delicacies, we understand that travelers may still have concerns about Covid-friendly travel.

Self-guided tours are ideal as they offer an exclusive experience for you and your choice of travel companions. You won’t have to worry about vacationing with strangers or sharing public transport once at the destination. Inherently, self-guided walking, cycling, and driving tours outside and away from large urban areas make it easy to stay socially distanced from people outside of your group should you choose. You can simply focus on exploring areas of natural beauty, passing through small towns and villages, and breathing in fresh country air!

Self-guided tours are one of the most economical options for travelers, although, like all tours, the price depends on the destination, activities, trip length, and group size. Self-guided tours cater well to walking tours and cycling holidays, so here are a couple of examples: 

How do these prices compare to private tours and small-group tours?

Private tours are the most expensive option as you will be accompanied by a guide for the duration of your trip. However, this can offer unique insights and cultural experiences, the chance to really get off the beaten track, and an increased sense of comfort for travelers heading to an unfamiliar destination.

The prices of small-group tours fall somewhere in-between self-guided and private tours. You won’t have much flexibility with the itinerary – though you will have pockets of free time for individual exploration – and you may be traveling with more people. Small-group tours are great for leveraging the expertise of a local guide without the higher cost that comes with private tours.

Self-guided tours are different from both private tours and small-group tours. As you are not accompanied by a local expert for the majority of your vacation, this drastically reduces the cost of the trip, although some of our self-guided tours do include a guided component to maximize your cultural experience. This tour type is ideal for those that want increased autonomy, but you will need to be responsible for getting to and from your accommodations each night and ensure you’re on time for any pre-booked activities along your route. Additionally, self-guided tours are especially suited to nature-focused activities such as walking and cycling tours. These are more budget-friendly activities and, as a bonus, will keep the carbon footprint of your travel low as well.

Now that we’ve covered what self-guided tours are, what they include, and what the benefits are, we’ll give you some examples of our favorite self-guided trips.

Are you an active traveler looking for a self-guided adventure? Explore the Portuguese Coastal Way from Porto to Santiago on this cycling tour that takes you along the rugged coastline and through the quaint villages of northern Portugal. Prefer hiking to biking? Enjoy a similar self-guided walking holiday along the coastal route of Portugal’s Costa Verde, a diverse region famous for its refreshing ‘green wine’.

Here are a couple more self-guided tours we recommend. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure, cultural immersion, or epic road trip, we can help you find your perfect itinerary.

1. Portugal: Heart and Soul of Douro Valley

Immerse yourself in Portuguese cuisine with this one-week self-guided walking tour and wine-tasting holiday in the scenic Douro Valley. You’ll follow unpaved roads and footpaths through picturesque countryside as you walk between traditional villages, pausing for picnic lunches and visits to local wine estates where you can sample award-winning wines and local cuisine. Museums and the chance to take part in activities, such as grape harvest celebrations, will give you an appreciation and understanding of the culture of this region. At the end of each day’s walk, you’ll receive a warm welcome at one of the carefully selected country houses and hotels, where you can relax, put your feet up, and enjoy a delicious meal. 

We had a great hike in Douro valley, all the accommodations were perfect, and the people we met were so nice. In every place we stopped we had great hotel rooms and a pool to rest after a day hiking (mostly up). Especially Quinta do Portal was really excellent and had the best chef and meals we have ever had in Portugal. Thank you! 

2. Romania: Discovering Transylvania's Heritage by Bike

Leisurely cycle through the hills of Transylvania, a mysterious and spectacular land with a rich heritage. This trip will take you into the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvania’s hills. Transylvania is famous thanks to Bram Stoker’s legend of Dracula, and is well-known for its forests which provide shelter for many species of wild plants and animals. 

Self-Guided Tours: What are they? Why book one?

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Yugen Earthside connects mindful travelers to responsible package trips around the world. CARBON REMOVALS INCLUDED WITH EACH BOOKING!

Connecting mindful travelers to responsible experiences around the world.

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

We proudly partner with wanderwell, a B-Corp-certified travel insurance agency and 1% for the Planet member.

Request a FREE quote for Trip Protection or Travel Medical coverage.

Discover self-guided, privately-guided, & small group tours around the world. Our sustainable adventures are customizable, and include carbon removals with each booking!

Trips | Yugen Earthside | Sustainable Adventures

Discover Costa Rica’s sustainable essence on an eco-friendly journey featuring local traditions, Indigenous culture, & breathtaking biodiversity. Carbon removals included!

[13 days] Sustainable Essence of Costa Rica | Yugen Earthside

Discover Costa Rica’s sustainable essence on an eco-friendly journey featuring local traditions, Indigenous culture, and breathtaking biodiversity.

Begin your adventure in Sarapiquí, exploring its rich biodiversity and embracing its peaceful atmosphere. Then, in Maquenque, enjoy a serene safari raft float and a nocturnal rainforest walk.

Next, head to Arenal to visit the Maleku Indigenous Reserve, where you'll immerse yourself in Indigenous culture, language, traditions, and sustainable practices.

In Monteverde, walk among the treetops on the Sky Walk hanging bridges for stunning views of the mystical cloud forest, followed by a hands-on experience of traditional farming with the Trapiche Tour, featuring sugarcane, coffee, and cacao production.

Finally, in Carara, discover sustainable living on a private eco-tour, learning about permaculture, conservation, and eco-friendly practices.

This trip beautifully combines sustainability, cultural heritage, and adventure, offering a deep connection to Costa Rica’s people, nature, and conservation efforts.

Enjoy the serene, lush natural beauty of Sarapiquí.

Glide along the Maquenque River on a peaceful safari float by raft.

Venture into the rainforest on an exhilarating night walk tour.

Connect with indigenous culture during your visit to the Maleku Reserve.

Walk above the treetops in Monteverde on the Sky Walk hanging bridges.

Spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats on the river safari, in the rainforest, and in the cloud forest.

Discover sustainable farming practices while learning about the process of sugarcane, coffee, and cacao production.

Explore the ecosystems of Carara on a private sustainable living tour, delving into conservation efforts and eco-friendly practices that help preserve the region’s unique biodiversity.

one night at a 4* hotel in San Jose upon arrival

two nights in Sarapiquí at a 3* eco-lodge

two nights in Boca Tapada (the gateway to the Maquenque Wildlife Refuge) in a 3* eco-lodge

one final night at a 4* hotel in San José before departure

This itinerary offers an immersive journey through Costa Rica, seamlessly blending sustainability, culture, and nature. From wildlife encounters to cultural experiences, each activity is designed to provide a deeper understanding of the country’s biodiversity and eco-friendly traditions.

Each tour is a guided experience lasting approximately half a day. Only on Days 5 & 9 will you have two half-day tours, ensuring that most of the itinerary allows for free time to explore at your own pace. On days when you transition between accommodations, no tours are scheduled, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed drive, take in scenic landscapes, and make spontaneous stops in charming towns along the way.

In Sarapiquí, both days are meant for relaxation, with no scheduled activities. You can take this time to unwind, enjoy the pool, and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings of the property, connecting with nature at your own pace. You can schedule activities directly through the hotel if you want, with extra charge as these activities are not included in the program.

You'll unwind with one-to-two-night stays in carefully selected accommodations across San Jose, Sarapiquí, Boca Tapada, Arenal, Monteverde, and Carara. Each stay prioritizes comfort and sustainability, ensuring a responsible and immersive experience in nature.

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.

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.

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.

Meet & Greet at SJO International Airport

12 nights lodging (1 night in a hotel 4* San Jose; 2 nights in a 3* eco-lodge in Sarapiqui; 2 nights in a 3* eco-lodge in Boca Tapada, 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Arenal, 2 nights in a 3* lodge in Monteverde, 2 nights in a 3* eco-lodge in Carara, 1 night in a 4* hotel in San Jose)

D5: Safari Float By Raft Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D5: Night Walk Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D7: Maleku Reserve Tour (Shared Full-Day Experience)

D9: Sky Walk Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D9: Trapiche Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D11: Sustainable Living Tour (Private Half-Day Experience)

This trip requires a rental car and rental car insurance. Pricing for the car and insurance are upon request and will be added to the listed trip price. You're also welcome to book your rental car on your own.

High Season: Nov. 1, 2024 - April 30, 2025

Since 1972, we have been committed to positioning Costa Rica as a sustainable tourism destination. Through partnerships with government institutions and organizations, we've implemented initiatives that protect the environment, support local communities, and promote responsible travel practices.

Our approach includes collaborating with eco-certified accommodations, supporting conservation projects, and integrating carbon offset programs to reduce our environmental impact. We also work closely with local communities, reinvesting in their economies and fostering cultural preservation. Some of our company-wide initiatives include:

Actively collaborating with local projects that protect national parks, reserves, and biological corridors throughout Costa Rica.

Organizing a volunteer trash collection program.

Supporting food banks in San José and Guanacaste.

Educating employees, travelers, and business partners on sustainability and conservation to encourage responsible practices.

Adhering to Fair Trade practices for all collaborators and partners, from tour guides to small-scale farmers, to foster ethical economic development.

Promoting tourism dispersal and economic support in rural areas by focusing on less-visited regions, reducing the strain on popular destinations, and promoting inclusivity.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to creating meaningful travel experiences while ensuring the preservation of Costa Rica's natural and cultural heritage for future generations.

We are proud to hold certifications such as the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST), awarded by the Costa Rican Tourism Board, which reflects our dedication to environmental conservation and response tourism.

Each selected hotel follows responsible tourism practices, such as reducing waste, implementing water and energy conservation measures, and actively supporting local conservation initiatives. Many of these eco-lodges are integrated into their natural surroundings, using sustainable architecture and low-impact designs to protect biodiversity.

Every experience on this journey has been carefully chosen to respect Costa Rica’s natural ecosystems. Whether it’s a wildlife-friendly safari float, a cultural visit to the Maleku Indigenous Reserve, or a sustainable living tour, these activities are designed to minimize disturbance to the environment while providing meaningful interactions with nature and local communities.

This itinerary encourages responsible travel by engaging with initiatives that protect Costa Rica’s biodiversity. From learning about indigenous traditions to visiting sustainable farms and conservation projects, travelers contribute to local economies while helping to preserve the country’s rich natural heritage for future generations.

Guests will have the opportunity to connect with local communities through immersive activities, such as visiting the Maleku Indigenous Reserve, where they can learn about ancestral traditions, language, and craftsmanship. Additionally, experiences like the Trapiche Tour offer insights into traditional farming techniques, including sugarcane processing, coffee production, and Costa Rican culinary traditions.

This journey supports community-led initiatives that promote economic and social well-being. By visiting cooperatives, sustainable farms, and conservation projects, travelers help reinforce locally driven efforts to preserve cultural heritage and protect the environment. These experiences ensure that tourism benefits not just businesses but also the wider community.

Travelers can actively engage in cultural exchanges, deepening their understanding of Costa Rica's heritage while fostering meaningful connections. Visits to indigenous communities, sustainable farms, and conservation projects provide opportunities to learn from locals, hear their stories, and gain firsthand experience in their day-to-day lives, creating a more enriching and responsible travel experience.

This trip emphasizes responsible travel by partnering with locally owned accommodations, tour operators, and dining establishments, ensuring that tourism revenue directly benefits the communities visited. By staying in eco-lodges and engaging with small, family-run businesses, travelers help sustain local livelihoods while experiencing authentic Costa Rican hospitality.

Sustainable tourism initiatives included in the itinerary play a vital role in creating jobs and generating income for rural communities. From local guides and artisans to organic farmers and conservationists, this journey helps promote equitable economic growth, empowering communities to thrive while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.

By participating in this journey, guests contribute to a tourism model that reinvests in the regions they visit. A portion of the revenue supports local conservation projects, community programs, and sustainability efforts, ensuring long-term benefits for both residents and the environment. This approach fosters a balanced and responsible tourism experience that leaves a positive impact beyond the trip itself.

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.

Explore Costa Rica’s hidden gems through niche eco experiences as you visit rainforests, coral reefs, wetlands, and a secluded island. Carbon removals included!

[15 days] Costa Rica's Hidden Gems & Niche Eco Experiences | Yugen Earthside

Explore Costa Rica’s hidden gems through niche nature and wildlife eco experiences as you visit rainforests, coral reefs, wetlands, and a secluded island.

This 15-day itinerary invites you to explore Costa Rica through an authentic and immersive journey that highlights environmental sustainability and local culture. From snorkeling vibrant coral reefs in a lesser-visited national park, to exploring wetlands still undiscovered by the masses, to enjoying a niche bioluminescent tour on a secluded island, each experience is designed to foster deeper connections with  the country’s nature and ecosystems. Don't worry - you'll also experience the classic Arenal Volcano, glamping, and eco retreats that Costa Rica is known for!

In addition to the focus on nature and wildlife, you'll have lovely cultural interactions as well. Enjoy Puerto Viejo with its Afro-Carribean roots, the town of Naranjo - including a local market visit, and an optional cultural workshop in Caño Negro.

Start in San José, Costa Rica’s lively capital, where you can soak in the country’s culture, history, and urban charm before venturing into nature.

Head to Puerto Viejo de Limón, where Caribbean rhythms, Afro-Costa Rican culture, and coastal rainforest create a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere rich in biodiversity.

Continue to Sarapiquí, a peaceful region known for its rivers and rainforests, offering close encounters with wildlife and authentic rural life.

Explore Caño Negro, one of the country’s most important wetlands, where a remote boat safari reveals rare bird species and untouched ecosystems.

Immerse yourself in Arenal, connect with Indigenous heritage at the Maleku Reserve, and witness the region’s volcanic landscapes while embracing sustainable tourism practices.

Travel to Isla Chiquita, a unique glamping experience on the Gulf of Nicoya, blending island adventure with comfort and ocean conservation.

Conclude in Naranjo, where coffee-covered hills and local traditions showcase Costa Rica’s agricultural roots and community-based tourism.

Hike through the lush trails of Cahuita National Park and snorkel its vibrant coral reef in Puerto Viejo de Limón.

Experience the rainforest after dark on a guided night walk in Sarapiquí, where nocturnal wildlife comes alive.

Glide through the wetlands of Caño Negro on a scenic boat tour and enjoy a meaningful cultural encounter with an Indigenous family in the area.

Hike near the Arenal Volcano and unwind in nearby Eco Termales hot springs, surrounded by lush tropical landscapes.

Witness the magical glow of bioluminescence on a nighttime tour in Isla Chiquita, a one-of-a-kind island experience.

Explore the coffee-covered hills of Naranjo, visiting local plantations and the charming town.

Go on a short hike to see the impressive Toro Waterfall.

two nights in Puerto Viejo de Limon at a Boutique Hotel

two nights in Caño Negro at a Glamping Hotel

two nights in Arenal Volcano at a 4* lodge

two nights in Isla Chiquita in a Glamping Hotel

three final nights at a boutique hotel in Naranjo

All included tours are guided half-day experiences and are generally scheduled one per day. This allows for a balanced pace, giving you time to rest, explore on your own, or enjoy the surroundings at leisure.

On days dedicated to travel between destinations, no activities are planned, offering the opportunity to enjoy relaxed drives, scenic views, and spontaneous stops along the way.

The program includes comfortable one-to-two-night stays in thoughtfully selected accommodations across San José, Puerto Viejo de Limón, Sarapiquí, Caño Negro, Arenal, Isla Chiquita, and Naranjo. Each lodging option emphasizes sustainability and local character, ensuring that your journey supports both environmental conservation and community-based tourism.

14 nights lodging (1 night in a hotel 4* San Jose; 2 nights in a Boutique hotel in Puerto Viejo de Limon; 1 night in a 3* eco-lodge in Sarapiqui, 2 nights in a luxury Glamping hotel in Caño Negro, 2 nights in a 4* lodge in Arenal Volcano, 3 nights in a Glamping hotel in Isla Chiquita and 3 nights in a Boutique hotel in Naranjo)

D3: Cahuita National Park, Snorkeling and Hiking Tour (Shared Full-Day Experience)

D4: Night Walk Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D6: Selected excursions in Caño Negro (Shared Full-Day Experiences)

D8: Arenal Volcano Hike & Eco Termales Fortuna Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D10: Bioluminescence Adventure Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D13: Coffee Plantations & Naranjo Town Tour (Shared Full-Day Experience)

D14: Toro Waterfall Tour (Shared Full-Day Experience)

Meals mentioned in the itinerary (all breakfasts, 8 lunches, 6 dinners)

High Season: Dec. 1, 2025 - April 30, 2026

We are proud to hold certifications such as the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST), awarded by the Costa Rican Tourism Board, which reflects our dedication to environmental conservation and responsible tourism.

Each selected hotel in this itinerary is committed to sustainable hospitality through responsible practices such as waste reduction, water and energy conservation, and environmental education. Many of the properties are eco-lodges built with sustainable materials and thoughtfully integrated into the natural landscape to minimize their ecological footprint and protect local biodiversity.

Throughout the journey, the activities are curated to align with Costa Rica’s environmental values. From a low-impact night walk in Sarapiquí to exploring Caño Negro’s wetlands and sustainable ranching practices to a bioluminescence experience on the calm waters of Isla Chiquita, each experience is designed to respect delicate ecosystems and promote wildlife conservation.

This program supports responsible travel by highlighting initiatives that contribute to the preservation of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. Travelers connect with local communities, participate in nature-based experiences that prioritize ecological balance, and support small-scale conservation efforts, all of which help to protect the country’s biodiversity while fostering awareness and appreciation for its natural heritage.

This itinerary fosters authentic cultural connections by engaging travelers in experiences that highlight Costa Rica’s heritage and rural traditions. Guests will have the chance to interact with local families and learn about traditional practices, crafts, and ways of life that reflect the country’s cultural richness. Visits to coffee plantations, local towns, and community-run farms offer insights into daily life, traditional agriculture, and the values of Costa Rican hospitality.

By supporting community-based tourism initiatives, this journey promotes economic empowerment and the preservation of cultural identity. Many of the experiences included in the program are led by locals, ensuring that tourism benefits stay within the community and contribute to long-term sustainability.

Through meaningful interactions, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s social fabric, whether by sharing a meal with a local family, exploring traditional farming methods, or learning about rural lifestyles. These connections foster mutual respect, cultural appreciation, and a more responsible and enriching travel experience.

This journey embraces a responsible tourism model by prioritizing partnerships with locally owned lodges, tour providers, and dining experiences. These choices ensure that a significant portion of tourism revenue remains within the communities visited, supporting local entrepreneurs and reinforcing Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainable economic development.

Each experience is thoughtfully selected to benefit rural economies and promote inclusive growth. From hiring local guides and naturalists to visiting family-run farms and cooperatives, the itinerary helps generate income and create employment opportunities that empower communities while preserving their traditions and natural surroundings.

By choosing this itinerary, travelers help reinvest in the destinations they explore. Many of the included accommodations and experiences contribute a portion of their income to regional conservation efforts, education programs, and community initiatives. This creates a ripple effect of positive impact that extends well beyond the trip itself, fostering a tourism model that supports long-term resilience and prosperity for all involved.

Costa Rica's Hidden Gems & Niche Eco Experiences

Enjoy an exciting, immersive, family-friendly adventure in Costa Rica, blending fun, education, and connection with nature & wildlife. Carbon removals included!

[10 days] Immersive Costa Rica Family Adventure | Yugen Earthside

Enjoy an exciting, immersive, and well-paced family-friendly adventure through Costa Rica, blending fun, education, and connection with nature and wildlife.

After spending one night in San Jose upon arrival, you'll spend two nights in Sarapiquí at a boutique hotel, three nights in Arenal in a 4* hotel, and three nights in Manuel Antonio at a 4* resort.

In Sarapiquí, you’ll explore the lush rainforest on a leisurely guided hike, and enjoy a peaceful floating safari on the Sarapiquí River, spotting exotic wildlife along the way. You'll also visit an organic farm to learn about sustainable agriculture and taste fresh, locally grown produce.

Next, head to Arenal Volcano for an adventurous tour of the Venado Caves, a hidden underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and fascinating rock formations. Then, embark on a sloth-watching tour, perfect for families looking to spot these adorable creatures in their natural habitat!

End your journey on the stunning Pacific coast in the eco-haven area of Manuel Antonio. Walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, where monkeys, tropical birds, and breathtaking beaches create the perfect backdrop for exploration. Then, enjoy a picturesque catamaran tour and take the opportunity to snorkel mid-way through.

Come create lasting memories in Costa Rica!

Become acquainted with Costa Rica's rich biodiversity on a wondrously guided rainforest hike through Sarapiquí.

Glide along the Sarapiquí River on a peaceful floating safari tour, spotting tropical birds, monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Experience sustainable farming firsthand with an engaging Organic Farm Tour, learning about eco-friendly agriculture and tasting fresh local produce.

Venture into the depths of the Venado Caves near the Arenal Volcano, exploring an underground world filled with fascinating rock formations and hidden passages.

Slow down and connect with nature on a sloth-watching tour, where you’ll observe these charming creatures in their natural rainforest home.

Explore the diverse ecosystems and breathtaking coastal views of the spectacular Manuel Antonio National Park, where lush forests meet the Pacific Ocean.

Sail along the stunning coastline on a catamaran, relaxing as you spot marine life like dolphins and sea turtles, and pausing to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

This itinerary offers an unforgettable family-friendly adventure through Costa Rica, perfectly blending wildlife exploration, outdoor adventure, and cultural immersion. With expert local guides leading the way, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich biodiversity and eco-friendly traditions.

Each tour is a guided experience that will take a half day. Only on Day 3 will you have two half-day tours, meaning most of the itinerary allows for free time each day for you to explore at your own pace. On days when you move from one accommodation to the next, no tours are planned, so you can comfortably complete the short drives, enjoying the scenery, stops, and towns along the way.

Aside from driving yourself to each main town, the rest of the transportation is taken care of for you.

You'll unwind with one-to-three-night stays in carefully selected accommodations across Alajuela, Sarapiquí, Arenal, and Manuel Antonio. Each stay prioritizes comfort and sustainability, ensuring a responsible and immersive experience in nature.

Private Guided Transfer from SJO Intl Airport to Hotel

9 nights lodging (1 night in a boutique hotel; 2 nights in a lodge; 3 nights in a 4* hotel; 3 nights in a 4* resort)

D2: Rainforest Hike Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D3: Natural History River Safari (Shared Half-Day Experience)

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