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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

A sustainable, slow-travel journey of South Africa's highlights, traversing from the beauty of the south to the vibrancy of the north. Carbon removals included!

[12 days] Sustainable Highlights from South to North | Yugen Earthside

A sustainable, slow-travel journey of South Africa, traversing from the beauty of the south to the vibrancy of the north.

This curated itinerary begins with 4 days in Cape Town, where you’ll explore the vibrant art scene, iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and Robben Island, and enjoy locals sharing their stories. Get ready to truly experience the heartbeat of Cape Town!

Then, embark on a 4-day self-drive along South Africa's West Coast region to enjoy nature, birds, Bushmen culture, and the Cape Winelands.

Finally, you'll take a short domestic flight north to Johannesburg, where you'll stay at a Safari lodge. On this Private Game Reserve, you’ll search for the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, buffalo) and immerse yourself in the rich Batswana culture. Visit Soweto to see the homes of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and join local festivities that will make your journey unforgettable.

This sustainable tour is crafted to offer a perfect blend of luxury, culture, history, and adventure—ensuring an extraordinary and wholesome experience. From UNESCO sites, to heritage tours, Indigenous art, and traditional cuisine, this slow-travel tour will authentically show you the multi-faceted wonders of South Africa.

Visit iconic attractions like Table Mountain and Robben Island 

Join the Bo-Kaap walking tour and indulge in a Cape Malay food experience

Walk with locals on a township tour & street art tour 

Visit markets & galleries that celebrate modern and Indigenous art in the Castle of Good Hope

Wander in the Cape Winelands in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

Pair local wines with traditional South African cuisine

Visit historic places in Soweto in Johannesburg, including Nelson Mandela's and Desmond Tutu's former homes

Safari in Dinokeng Game Reserve and experience the Batswana culture in the neighboring village.

South Africa is a year-round destination, with varying regional climates and wildlife opportunities. When you travel may depend on which activities are most important to you.

December-March: This is the best time for all those seeking the sun and beach days.

April-September: This is considered the best time to visit with cooler weather. 

Low Season - Winters are generally considered the low tourist season, between May to September, although it is the ideal weather for certain regions, and so remains an active season for tourists to visit.

August-September: The West Coast blooms into a blanket of wildflowers and is one of the most beautiful sights to see!

November-February: This is the best time to travel for birding (though it can be rainy during this period). Temperatures remain warm at 72°F to 91°F (22°C to 33°C).

May-October: The dry season is ideal for wildlife viewing in the northern part of the country. Animals are more predictable and easier to spot because they gather around water sources and vegetation is lower. Game viewing is especially good in Kruger National Park, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, and KwaZulu-Natal.

Off-peak travel: Off-peak travel is between May- September with less crowds.  

11 nights of accommodation (4* boutique hotel x4, guest house x2, country estate x2, 4* star safari lodge x3)

Guided tour, entrance fees for: Day 1: Table Mountain, Day 2: Robben Island, Day 3: Food Tour, Day 4: Street Art Tour, Day 8: Cape Winelands experience, Day 10: Village visit, Day 11: Soweto Tour

4 guided game drives on a private reserve (2 mornings, 2 sunset)

Daily ground support and emergency contact

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

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 is at the very heart of what we do. Our focus is on local culture, the people, the environment, and making a positive impact. We believe a collective consciousness is necessary for the traveler, locals, and environment to grow.

Therefore, we intentionally collaborate with those who want to be part of rebuilding an inclusive, more sustainable model that benefits all stakeholders in the tourism industry. All our tours/trips combine celebrating all cultures, connecting travelers to local community experiences, and bringing awareness about conservation. Travelers will enjoy the heart of the country through colorful and collaborative journeys that positively impact and empower.

Conscious of our impact on people and the planet, we provide travelers with a Pre-Trip Guide to familiarize themselves with the culture, customs, traditions, and how to minimize their carbon footprint on the destination.

South Africa has a conservation culture from the start, and we encourage our guests to join us in our efforts to ensure the preservation of water, save energy, and respect our natural environment. We share tips in our Pre-Trip Guide which we send guests before departure.

The country is currently battling an energy crisis called load shedding. Most of our partners have implemented energy-saving practices and follow protocols and guidelines to ensure safe environments for staff and guests. They have installed smart switches in various areas to switch off lights etc. when not needed. Switching off geysers in guest rooms when they are not in use. Most have replaced all light bulbs with LED energy-saving bulbs. We support them in their effort through our wildlife volunteering program. In terms of wildlife conservation in the Cape Winelands, our provider partners with Cape Nature for rehabilitated Tortoises to be released on the farm. We also support two female entrepreneurs who turn waste into wonderful gifts included in the Welcome Gift to our guests.

Our suppliers and partners are encouraged to improve environmental awareness. They have contributed to several environmental matters, which in turn helps us on our sustainability journey. Each entity has initiatives from small to medium suppliers to preserve nature conservation, waste management, and water saving. We encourage travelers to use public transport, especially in the busy city centers, instead of hiring cars.

We use locally owned and operated infrastructure.

We intentionally choose small operators within the community where travelers stay. From accommodation, transport, and fresh produce to co-creating travel experiences, to ensure the economic growth of that particular community as far as possible. Using local businesses and produce from the communities ensures a circular economy where money stays within the host community.

Choosing and supporting women-owned businesses from marginalized communities as our suppliers are essential issues we campaign for. We directly address social issues like this to reduce inequality within the country. Guests immerse themselves fully into the local culture by enjoying a home-cooked meal, learning to play the African drums, or partaking in a community walkabout. Introducing visitors to local experiences like this, protect and safeguard natural and cultural heritage. Local experiences like the Cape Malay, Black, and Indigenous tours make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

To help put profits into local hands so they can benefit directly, we:

Intentionally use youth and women-owned businesses from overlooked and marginalized communities. Creating opportunities for women from disadvantaged communities means they can provide for their families and community. Accommodation, transport, and food suppliers live in and around the community our guests visit. This ensures the industry's economic impact is spread equally at all levels of society.

Co-designed travel experiences with local communities to ensure an authentic experience for travelers. This fosters a collective responsibility and gives them ownership of their product.

Provide employment and business opportunities for local people. All tour guides are locals. Trained and certified by the municipal and national tourism bodies, tour guides are well-prepared, friendly, and professional in sharing their local knowledge with international and domestic guests. They come with the recommendation of our travel and tourism partners. Most of our suppliers are entrepreneurs and owners of their social enterprises.

Provide welcome gifts for guests that are made and provided by women-owned businesses.

From the Bo Kaap tour to the Indigenous sharing their cultures, we highlight South Africa's diverse cultures, which also represent marginalized people. Through storytelling, local artists, small operators and suppliers from disadvantaged backgrounds offer and create authentic travel experiences. Guests will share home-cooked meals with local women.

Sustainable Highlights from South to North

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.

Self-Drive

Sustainable Highlights from South to North

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

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