Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Guanacaste
Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Guanacaste
Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Guanacaste
11 Days Starting in San José, Costa Rica and ending in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Visiting: San José, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal, Monteverde, Guanacaste, Central America
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SRE2-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Guanacaste" tour, where adventure and cultural exploration await. Begin in the vibrant city of San José before venturing to the lush Tortuguero National Park, renowned for its intricate canal system and diverse wildlife. Experience the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano and its rejuvenating hot springs, followed by a canopy tour in the mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest. Conclude your adventure in the stunning Guanacaste region, home to pristine beaches and endless opportunities for relaxation and exploration. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and cultural immersion, ensuring a memorable Costa Rican experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In San José,Costa Rica
Location: San José
Accommodation Name: Cariari Hotel San Jose
Upon arrival, you will be met by your tour director!
ARRIVE IN SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA Welcome to San José!Upon arrival, you will be met by your tour director!
Day 2: San José,Tortuguero National Park
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey east to the Caribbean shore and Tortuguero National Park. On the way, pass by several banana plantations and see one of Costa Rica’s main exports being harvested. Later, board a motor launch for your cruise along the Tortuguero Canals, waterways crisscrossing a national park dedicated to the protection of endangered turtles. The trained eyes of your guide and boatman help you spot freshwater turtles, caimans, herons, toucans, egrets, and monkeys. An afternoon at leisure lets you explore your jungle lodge until you meet for an informative slideshow presentation on the area.
SAN JOSÉ–TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK Shell Games Journey east to the Caribbean shore and Tortuguero National Park. On the way, pass by several banana plantations and see one of Costa Rica’s main exports being harvested. Later, board a motor launch for your cruise along the Tortuguero Canals, waterways crisscrossing a national park dedicated to the protection of endangered turtles. The trained eyes of your guide and boatman help you spot freshwater turtles, caimans, herons, toucans, egrets, and monkeys. An afternoon at leisure lets you explore your jungle lodge until you meet for an informative slideshow presentation on the area. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTWONDERS OF NATURE Tortuguero National Park was once a volcanic archipelago until sediments from the nearby mountains filled in the valleys forming a network of marshy islands and turtle nesting beaches that make this region so famous. With its 11 different habitats, this lush, protected area is rich with wildlife and biodiversity.
Day 3: Tortuguero National Park Tour & Canal Cruise
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A local Naturalist accompanies you on a leisurely boat ride along remote, unspoiled sections of the park’s waterways, explaining the bountiful flora and fauna. Enjoy a fascinating stroll through an accessible portion of the nearby rainforest. During the peak nesting season (mid-July to mid-October) you may be lucky enough to observe an endangered green turtle laying her eggs under the starlight on an optional tour. Later this afternoon, meet a local Naturalist for an informative presentation on the ecology of the area.
TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK TOUR & CANAL CRUISE Natural BeautiesA local Naturalist accompanies you on a leisurely boat ride along remote, unspoiled sections of the park’s waterways, explaining the bountiful flora and fauna. Enjoy a fascinating stroll through an accessible portion of the nearby rainforest. During the peak nesting season (mid-July to mid-October) you may be lucky enough to observe an endangered green turtle laying her eggs under the starlight on an optional tour. Later this afternoon, meet a local Naturalist for an informative presentation on the ecology of the area. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCONSERVATION MATTERS Tortuguero’s turtles that come to nest in the national park named for them are easily considered one of the main attractions of the park. Green Sea Turtles, leatherback, and Hawksbill turtles can all be found nesting on the beaches here. During your time here, learn about the conservation efforts that have been in place since 1955 to help protect these endangered species.
Day 4: Tortuguero,Sarapiqui,Arenal
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Volcano Lodge & Gardens
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A morning boat transfer begins your journey to the Sarapiqui area. Tour a [LF] pineapple farm, owned by a local family, and learn about the history, cultivation, and industry of pineapples and other indigenous crops. Continue to your hotel in the lush town of Arenal, located in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. After settling in, experience the magic of the resort before dinner at your hotel
TORTUGUERO–SARAPIQUI–ARENAL Fruitful ExperiencesA morning boat transfer begins your journey to the Sarapiqui area. Tour a [LF] pineapple farm, owned by a local family, and learn about the history, cultivation, and industry of pineapples and other indigenous crops. Continue to your hotel in the lush town of Arenal, located in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. After settling in, experience the magic of the resort before dinner at your hotel (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Lush tropical gardens, the sound of crashing waterfalls, and striking views of Costa Rica’s famed Arenal Volcano from Volcano Lodge will leave you feeling as though you have been transported into the middle of a hidden rainforest jungle but, with all of the comforts and amenities of a well-tended retreat. Experience the magic of the resort’s pool and hot spring-fed jacuzzi or consider a walk in the nearby nature trail in search of 300- to 400-year-old trees, frogs, monkeys, birds, and possibly small animals native to the area.
Day 5: Arenal. Excursion To La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano National Park
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Volcano Lodge & Gardens
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
ARENAL. EXCURSION TO LA FORTUNA & ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK Lava LoveThis afternoon, visit Arenal Volcano National Park, where your guide takes you on a walk through lava trails of the volcano and shows you how nature has found a way to recover from past lava flows. Next, enjoy a walking tour of the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos, offering spectacular views of the active Arenal Volcano. This evening, drive to nearby [LF] Ecotermales Hot Springs for a dip in the curative and relaxing pools. Later, enjoy a dinner at the hot springs. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITEWONDERS OF NATURE Towering over the town of La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano is a perfect conical shape. It was once the most active volcano in Costa Rica with its lava flowing and gas consistently flowing from the crater amazing visitors of the area. In 2010, it entered a resting phase. But, because of the seismic activity of the area, you will find some of the best natural thermal hot springs. FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE During your morning at leisure, you may wish to go on an optional horseback ride or float trip. Or, you can take advantage of your resort’s amenities by walking along the shaded trails nearby. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus. Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.
Day 6: Arenal,Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: El Establo Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, continue to Monteverde, where you will enjoy two days in the cloud forest. This afternoon, take a guided tour on the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges, which combines trails and suspension bridges through the canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest, to search for flora and fauna.
ARENAL–MONTEVERDE Heads in the CloudsAfter breakfast, continue to Monteverde, where you will enjoy two days in the cloud forest. This afternoon, take a guided tour on the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges, which combines trails and suspension bridges through the canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest, to search for flora and fauna. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT Explore the cloud forest from the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges for a bird’s eye view high above the jungle floor. This Naturalist-guided tour introduces you to the flora and fauna of the Costa Rican cloud forest. Consisting of 6 bridges with some bridges spanning over 700 feet long and over 150 feet high, this is truly a unique way to admire the forest canopy.
Day 7: Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: El Establo Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, visit Santa Elena Cloud Forest for a guided walking tour. Over 600 species of butterflies and 400 species of birds have been recorded inside this private reserve, along with 100 reptile and 120 mammal species that hide within the dense vegetation. Later, visit a family-owned Ecological Sanctuary, where you will explore the trails through the forest filled with endemic wildlife and beautiful scenery. After the walk, enjoy a cooking class focusing on permaculture, conservation, and local traditions. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner, toasting an unforgettable discovery of Costa Rica.
MONTEVERDE SANTA ELENA CLOUD FOREST RESERVE Butterfly KissesThis morning, visit Santa Elena Cloud Forest for a guided walking tour. Over 600 species of butterflies and 400 species of birds have been recorded inside this private reserve, along with 100 reptile and 120 mammal species that hide within the dense vegetation. Later, visit a family-owned Ecological Sanctuary, where you will explore the trails through the forest filled with endemic wildlife and beautiful scenery. After the walk, enjoy a cooking class focusing on permaculture, conservation, and local traditions. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner, toasting an unforgettable discovery of Costa Rica. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Treat yourself to a visit to a leisurely stroll through a family owned Ecological Sanctuary, and take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Costa Rican food sustainably, like hand-made tortillas, picadillos, and gallo pinto. Dine on your creations for a homemade lunch!
Day 8: Monteverde,Guanacaste
Location: Guanacaste
Accommodation Name: Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a morning drive to Guanacaste. Arrive in Costa Rica’s North Pacific region which offers hundreds of unspoiled beaches lining the shores, making Guanacaste an extraordinary beach destination.
MONTEVERDE–GUANACASTE Costa Rican RichesTake a morning drive to Guanacaste. Arrive in Costa Rica’s North Pacific region which offers hundreds of unspoiled beaches lining the shores, making Guanacaste an extraordinary beach destination. (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE Exciting ways to spend your free time in Guanacaste include rainforest canopy tours, river rafting or floating down the Corobici River, horseback riding, and fishing. Snorkel in the Pacific Ocean, or just relax on the beach. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus. Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.
Day 9: Guanacaste
Location: Guanacaste
Accommodation Name: Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day today.
GUANACASTE Follow your AdventureEnjoy a free day today. (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE Discover a new view of Guanacaste with an exhilarating zipline tour and fly through the forest canopy. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus. Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.
Day 10: Guanacaste
Location: Guanacaste
Accommodation Name: Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day today.
GUANACASTE Unplug & Recharge Enjoy a free day today. (B)FREE TIME TIPS EXPLORE MORE What better way to celebrate your fantastic time in Costa Rica than with a lazy day on the beach? Ask your Tour Director for the best spots on the sand and stretch out for a day of pure relaxation on the pristine shore.
Day 11: Guanacaste
Location: Guanacaste
Accommodation Name: Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
GUANACASTE Safe travels until we meet again!Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Cariari Hotel San Jose, Evergreen Lodge, Volcano Lodge & Gardens, El Establo Mountain Lodge, and Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners are included.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours in various locations including Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.
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Transportation
Transportation between destinations including boat transfers and motor launches.
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Small Group Discoveries
Tours are limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure, ensuring extra space and personalized experiences.
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Local Experiences
Unique local experiences such as a pineapple farm tour, a visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs, and a cooking class focusing on local traditions.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as horseback riding, float trips, zipline tours, and snorkeling are not included and can be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Costa Rica are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on all South America tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Area de Conservación Guanacaste
Accommodation
San Jose: Cariari Hotel San Jose, Tortuguero: Evergreen Lodge, Arenal: Volcano Lodge & Gardens, Monteverde: El Establo Mountain Lodge, Guanacaste: Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort
Mode of Transport
Journey by motor launch through the Tortuguero Canals, and enjoy a morning boat transfer to Sarapiqui. Continue your travels by road to Arenal, Monteverde, and Guanacaste.
Notes
Maximum elevation on tour is 9,000 ft.Guanacaste extension guests will depart from Monteverde on day 8. The extension guests will not stop in Sarchi and will not have the included lunch. These inclusions were not included in the price for the extension.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Tortuguero National Park?
In Tortuguero National Park, you can expect to see freshwater turtles, caimans, herons, toucans, egrets, and monkeys. During the peak nesting season from mid-July to mid-October, you may also observe endangered green turtles laying their eggs.
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What activities are included in the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park?
During the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, you will take a walk through the lava trails of the volcano and enjoy a walking tour of the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos. You will also visit the Ecotermales Hot Springs for a dip in the curative and relaxing pools, followed by dinner at the hot springs.
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What can I expect during the guided tour in Monteverde?
In Monteverde, you will take a guided tour on the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges, which combines trails and suspension bridges through the canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest. This tour offers a bird's eye view high above the jungle floor and introduces you to the flora and fauna of the Costa Rican cloud forest.
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What is special about the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve?
The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is home to over 600 species of butterflies and 400 species of birds, along with 100 reptile and 120 mammal species. The dense vegetation provides a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. You will also visit a family-owned Ecological Sanctuary and participate in a cooking class focusing on permaculture, conservation, and local traditions.
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What are some optional activities available during free time in Guanacaste?
During your free time in Guanacaste, you can participate in rainforest canopy tours, river rafting or floating down the Corobici River, horseback riding, fishing, snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean, or simply relaxing on the beach. You can also opt for an exhilarating zipline tour through the forest canopy.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The accommodations on this tour include Cariari Hotel San Jose in San Jose, Evergreen Lodge in Tortuguero, Volcano Lodge & Gardens in Arenal, El Establo Mountain Lodge in Monteverde, and Tamarindo Diria Beach and Golf Resort in Guanacaste.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes breakfast daily, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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What is the group size for this tour?
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on all South America tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. This ensures extra space between travelers while still providing up-close and personal experiences.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.