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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 offering Trip Protection and Travel Medical coverage.

Self-drive tours enable travelers to access more remote areas of a destination in a flexible, independent, & more sustainable way. Carbon removals included!

Sustainable Self-Drive Tours | Yugen Earthside

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, 2025 - April 30, 2026

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.

Have the opportunity to glide through the wetlands of Caño Negro on a scenic boat tour or 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)

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)

D3: Organic Farm Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D5: Venado Caves Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D6: Sloth Watching Walk Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D8: Manuel Antonio National Park Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D9: Catamaran Adventure Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

Mid Season: July 1 - Aug. 31, 2026; Nov. 1-30, 2026

Low Season: May 1 - June 30, 2026; Sep. 1 - Oct. 31, 2026

This itinerary is designed to provide an enriching experience for families while fostering a deep appreciation for Costa Rica’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Each accommodation is carefully selected for its commitment to sustainability, offering eco-friendly amenities, nature-based learning experiences, and locally sourced meals that introduce families to authentic Costa Rican flavors.

Activities are chosen to inspire curiosity and connection with nature, from guided wildlife explorations to sustainable farming tours, ensuring that children and adults alike gain a deeper understanding of how to live harmoniously with the environment and support local communities.

Throughout this journey, your family will have the chance to explore lush forests, observe local wildlife, and engage in sustainable activities that benefit the environment and local communities.

You'll discover the diverse species that inhabit the area and learn about efforts to preserve ecosystems, from cultivating native plants to protecting endangered animals. Along the way, you’ll enjoy local refreshments and experiences that connect you to the culture and traditions of Costa Rica.

These activities also support nearby communities by promoting responsible tourism that creates jobs and funds environmental conservation projects. Whether it’s through sustainable farming, wildlife protection, or preserving national parks, your family’s participation helps ensure the long-term health of both the natural surroundings and the local people. By engaging with these experiences, you’ll be contributing directly to the preservation of Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity and supporting the communities working hard to protect it.

This trip is all about giving back to the places you visit. By staying at locally owned accommodations and taking part in community-run tours, your family is helping support the local economy directly.

The activities you’ll enjoy are part of a sustainable tourism effort that creates jobs and provides income to rural communities, helping them thrive and grow.

By joining this journey, your family is playing a role in a tourism model that reinvests in the areas you explore, making sure that both the local people and the environment continue to benefit for years to come.

This enriching birdwatching tour through Costa Rica is for curious and passionate birders eager to see avian species in their natural and diverse ecosystems. Carbon removals included!

[14 days] Birdwatching through Costa Rica's Diverse Ecosystems | Yugen Earthside

This enriching birdwatching tour through Costa Rica is for curious and passionate birders eager to see avian species in their natural and diverse ecosystems.

On a well-paced 14-day journey through Costa Rica's wetlands, cloud forests, and national parks, you'll see firsthand the country’s incredible bird diversity and natural beauty. Experience world-renowned birdwatching destinations, observe a stunning variety of species in their natural habitats, and connect with expert guides who will help you spot, identify, and learn about Costa Rica’s avian wonders.

If you're looking for an exceptional and immersive birdwatching experience, this itinerary promises to be an unforgettable exploration of Costa Rica's thriving biodiversity. 

Begin your adventure in Naranjo with an expert-led birdwatching tour, where you’ll spot a variety of endemic and migratory species in the region’s lush coffee-growing landscapes.

Continue to Caño Negro, a wetland paradise teeming with birdlife. Enjoy a guided tour and boat excursion with excellent chances to see waterfowl and migratory birds, such as kingfishers, spoonbills, and the elusive Agami heron.

In Sarapiquí, hike through thriving tropical rainforest in search of toucans, trogons, and tanagers, while experiencing one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions.

Head to Turrialba, a hidden gem for birders where lowland and highland ecosystems meet. A morning birdwatching tour offers the chance to hear and see both endemic and migratory species.

San Gerardo de Dota, nestled in the Talamanca Mountains, is prime territory for spotting the Resplendent Quetzal. Trek through misty cloud forest to find this iconic bird and other highland species like hummingbirds and flycatchers.

In Piedras Blancas, venture deep into pristine rainforest on a guided hike to observe mixed flocks and tropical birds in a remote, untouched ecosystem. This region is an off-the-beaten-path haven for bird enthusiasts!

Conclude your journey in Carara National Park, a biodiverse transition zone where dry and wet forests meet, offering the chance to see scarlet macaws, trogons, and other forest species.

Rise early to spot endemic and migratory birds amid Naranjo’s peaceful coffee country

Explore the renowned wetland sanctuary and biodiversity of Caño Negro from land in search of rare species like the Agami heron

Glide through Caño Negro’s winding waterways and observe a variety of waterfowl, wading birds, and other wildlife

Hike through Sarapiquí’s lush rainforest, a hotspot for colorful toucans, trogons, and tanagers

Wake up to the sounds of nature in tranquil Turrialba, and birdwatch in this serene region blending lowland and highland ecosystems

Seek out the iconic Resplendent Quetzal on a specialized cloud forest tour in San Gerardo de Dota

Discover the untouched wilderness of Piedras Blancas and look for hidden avian treasures in this remote rainforest ecosystem

See where dry and wet forest ecosystems converge in Carara National Park

1 night in Naranjo in a Boutique Hotel upon arrival

2 nights in San Gerardo de Dota in a 4* hotel

3 nights in Piedras Blancas in a 3* lodge

All included tours are guided half-day experiences and are generally scheduled one per day (except on Day 3 when you have two half-day tours, one in the early morning and one in the afternoon). This allows for a balanced pace, giving you time to rest, explore on your own, or enjoy the surroundings at leisure.

With a rental car, you’ll drive between key birding destinations at your own pace, allowing flexibility to enjoy relaxed drives, explore additional hotspots and spontaneous spots, and soak in scenic views during your free time. On days dedicated to travel between destinations, you typically have no activities planned (except on Days 2 and 7 when you'll join early morning tours before transferring to the next destination).

You’ll enjoy mostly two-to-three night stays in carefully selected lodges in Naranjo, Caño Negro, Sarapiquí, Turrialba, San Gerardo de Dota, Piedras Blancas, and Carara—each chosen for its proximity to prime birdwatching areas and commitment to sustainability. Every stop offers a new opportunity to observe and photograph an incredible variety of birdlife!

This journey is crafted to provide not only exceptional birdwatching experiences but also a deep connection to Costa Rica’s landscapes, conservation efforts, and eco-friendly travel practices.

Rental car & insurance (see Pricing info)

13 nights lodging (1 night in a boutique hotel in Naranjo; 2 nights in a 3* lodge in Caño Negro; 2 nights in a 3* lodge in Sarapiqui, 1 night in a boutique totel in Turrialba, 2 nights in a 4* hotel in San Gerardo de Dota, 3 nights in a 3* lodge in Piedras Blancas, and the last 2 nights in a 3* lodge in Carara)

D2: Morning Birdwatching Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D3: Birdwatching Tour (AM Shared Half-Day Experience)

D3: Wetland Tour (PM Shared Half-Day Experience)

D5: Rainforest Hike Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D7: Morning Birdwatching Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D8: Quetzal Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D10: Hike Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

D13: Carara National Park Tour (Shared Half-Day Experience)

Each selected lodge in this itinerary is committed to responsible tourism, incorporating eco-friendly practices such as waste reduction, water conservation, and renewable energy use. Many are designed with sustainable architecture that blends harmoniously with the surrounding ecosystems, ensuring minimal impact on local wildlife and habitats.

The activities included are carefully chosen to align with Costa Rica’s conservation efforts. Whether it’s exploring the wetlands of Caño Negro on a low-impact boat tour, hiking through the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota in search of the Resplendent Quetzal, or birdwatching in the pristine rainforest of Piedras Blancas, every experience is designed to foster appreciation for nature while minimizing environmental disturbance.

This journey actively supports biodiversity conservation by engaging travelers with initiatives that protect Costa Rica’s natural heritage. From guided birdwatching tours that promote sustainable ecotourism to visiting national parks and private reserves dedicated to habitat preservation, this itinerary allows guests to immerse themselves in nature while contributing to its long-term protection.

Guests will have the opportunity to engage with local communities through meaningful experiences, such as guided birdwatching tours led by expert local naturalists who share their deep knowledge of Costa Rica’s avian diversity. In San Gerardo de Dota, travelers will learn from local guides about the importance of cloud forest conservation and the role of community efforts in protecting the Resplendent Quetzal and other endemic species.

This journey supports community-driven conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives. By staying at eco-lodges that collaborate with local conservation projects and participating in guided excursions that directly benefit local communities, travelers contribute to the protection of biodiversity while supporting livelihoods in rural areas. These initiatives ensure that the economic benefits of tourism reach those who are actively preserving the environment.

Travelers will also have opportunities for cultural exchange by visiting local communities and small-scale conservation programs. You'll learn about sustainable land management in Carara, engag with passionate naturalists in Caño Negro, immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s environmental and cultural heritage while creating positive, lasting connections with the people who protect it.

This itinerary prioritizes responsible travel by partnering with locally owned eco-lodges, tour operators, and restaurants, ensuring that tourism revenue directly supports the communities visited. By staying in sustainable accommodations and participating in locally guided birdwatching tours, travelers help create economic opportunities for residents while experiencing Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity through the eyes of expert local naturalists.

Sustainable tourism plays a crucial role in job creation and economic empowerment for rural communities. From skilled birding guides in Caño Negro and San Gerardo de Dota to family-run lodges in Piedras Blancas and Sarapiquí, this journey supports individuals and businesses dedicated to conservation and eco-tourism. These initiatives provide stable incomes while fostering environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.

Self-Drive

Sustainable Essence of Costa Rica

Costa Rica's Hidden Gems & Niche Eco Experiences

Immersive Costa Rica Family Adventure

Birdwatching through Costa Rica's Diverse Ecosystems

Naturally Green: Costa Rica Coffee to Coast

South Africa Cape to Coast Self-Drive

Sustainable Highlights from South to North

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