Costa Rica Coast to Coast Private Journey

Upon your arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), you will be warmly welcomed and guided to your private transfer. From there, sit back, relax, and enjoy a comfortable ride to your selected hotel in San José. Whether you’re arriving after a long flight or stepping into Costa Rica for the first time, this seamless transfer ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your vacation.

Today, you’ll journey to Costa Rica’s stunning South Caribbean coast, a unique blend of pristine beaches, lush nature, and Afro-Caribbean culture. After departing San José, travel along Route 32, passing through the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a rainforest teeming with biodiversity. Along the way, you’ll pass the towns of Guápiles and Siquirres before reaching the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Your destination is Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, home to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches, where you’ll enjoy two unforgettable nights at your selected hotel.

Enjoy a free day to soak up the sun on Puerto Viejo’s stunning beaches, swim in the Caribbean’s warm waters, or explore the town’s Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant artisan markets. For nature lovers, nearby Cahuita National Park and Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge offer incredible hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters — perfect for immersing yourself in the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica’s South Caribbean.

Travel north to Tortuguero, a jewel of the Caribbean. After passing through Guápiles, board a scenic boat ride through lush jungle canals, spotting monkeys, birds, and reptiles along the way. Upon arrival at your eco-lodge, receive an overview of the days ahead. In the afternoon, visit Tortuguero Village, where bicycles rule the roads and locals proudly share their conservation efforts to protect nesting green sea turtles.

Set out by boat to explore Tortuguero National Park, a biodiversity hotspot where you may spot howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, and even the elusive jaguar. The park’s rich ecosystems include more than 400 bird species, vibrant wetlands, and ancient forests, making it a paradise for wildlife lovers. The experience is a true immersion into Costa Rica’s wild heart.

After a scenic boat transfer back to La Pavona, continue by road through Guápiles, where you’ll enjoy lunch, then head toward the northern plains. As you arrive in La Fortuna, the majestic Arenal Volcano comes into view — a spectacular sight if skies are clear. Settle into your hotel and prepare for two nights in this adventure-packed destination.

Explore Arenal at your own pace. For thrill-seekers, Sky Tram & Sky Trek offers panoramic views followed by an adrenaline-pumping zipline descent. Prefer something calmer? Stroll the Arenal Hanging Bridges, where rainforest trails and suspension bridges reveal spectacular views and wildlife. Whether you chase adventure or soak in hot springs, Arenal delivers.

Today’s journey leads west to the Guanacaste province, passing the shimmering waters of Lake Arenal and volcanic silhouettes of Tenorio and Miravalles. Arriving in Rincón de la Vieja, you’ll be surrounded by cattle country, dry forest landscapes, and geothermal wonders. Settle into your lodge for two nights in this unique volcanic region.

Enjoy a free day to explore. We recommend visiting Rincón de la Vieja National Park (closed Mondays) to see its bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and wildlife-rich trails. With luck, you may spot monkeys, toucans, or even coatis. Your guide will reveal the secrets of this geothermal wonderland — a true blend of science and adventure.

Travel south toward Monteverde, climbing into the Tilarán Mountain Range. As you ascend, cooler air and misty forests welcome you to the famous cloud forest, home to over 3,000 plant species and the world’s highest diversity of orchids. Check into your hotel and begin your cloud forest adventure.

Monteverde is yours to explore! Take a guided walk through the Cloud Forest Reserve, known for its incredible biodiversity. For thrill-seekers, Sky Walk bridges or Sky Trek Canopy will send you soaring above the treetops. Prefer culture? Visit The Trapiche for a coffee and chocolate tour, or browse local crafts at CASEM, a women’s cooperative. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare resplendent quetzal!

Head down to the sun-drenched Pacific Coast, where the lush rainforest meets sparkling beaches. Arrive in Manuel Antonio, home to one of the most iconic national parks in Costa Rica. Settle into your beachside hotel and prepare for three relaxing nights by the sea.

Enjoy a full day at leisure. Lounge on the beautiful beaches or join an optional guided hike through Manuel Antonio National Park, where sloths, capuchin monkeys, and iguanas share the trails. If you prefer more adrenaline, try a canopy tour, catamaran cruise, or surf lesson — Manuel Antonio’s magic is yours to discover.

Your final day at the beach — unwind by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, or stroll along the jungle-fringed shoreline. If you want one last adventure, consider a mangrove boat tour to spot crocodiles and exotic birds, or visit nearby Nauyaca Waterfalls for a swim. However you choose to spend the day, it’s the perfect ending to your Costa Rican journey.

After your unforgettable Costa Rican adventure, it’s time to return to Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José for your flight home. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes, from the sunlit Pacific coast back into the lush central valleys. Take this time to reflect on the incredible memories made — from tropical beaches and cloud forests to volcanoes, wildlife encounters, and the vibrant culture that makes Costa Rica so special. We hope you leave with your heart full of Pura Vida and the desire to return one day!