Costa Rican Explorer
Costa Rican Explorer
Costa Rican Explorer
13 Days Starting in San Jose, Costa Rica and ending in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Visiting: San Jose, Tortuguero, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal, Monteverde, Tamarindo
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 2
Tour operated in:
English , SpanishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Costa Rican Explorer" tour and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Costa Rica. Begin your journey in San Jose, the vibrant capital, before cruising through the lush canals of Tortuguero National Park, home to green sea turtles. Experience the majestic Arenal Volcano National Park with a guided hike and a serene cruise on Arenal Lake. Discover the rich biodiversity of Monteverde's Cloud Forest and unwind on the pristine beaches of Tamarindo. This adventure includes 12 nights of accommodation, daily buffet breakfast, select meals, private airport transfers, and guided tours, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable exploration of Costa Rica's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: - San Jose (Arrival)
Location: San Jose
Accommodation Name: hotel
Make your own way to the international airport to check in for your flight to San Jose. San Jose, the breathtaking capital of Costa Rica, is surrounded by evergreen mountains and valleys. Upon arrival at San Jose International Airport, and after going through customs, you will be picked up by our company representative and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in San Jose
Day 2: San Jose - Tortuguero (B/L/D)
Location: Tortuguero
Accommodation Name: eco-lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin your day with an early morning departure, traveling by bus driving through Braulio Carrillo National Park towards the Caribbean Plains. Admire the magnificent mountain scenery and quaint villages on your way. Indulge in breakfast before cruising through the mesmerizing rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. Your boat will arrive at the eco-lodge just in time for lunch. After lunch, go boating through the surrounding canals and visit the village of Tortuguero. Take the opportunity to walk around, stroll along the beach, and experience the local way of life. During the Turtle hatching season, you may encounter many baby turtles trying to find their way down to the ocean. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel, surrounded by the beautiful tropical forest and wildlife.
Overnight in Tortuguero
Day 3: Tortuguero National Park (B/L/D)
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: eco-lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day at leisure. Embark on a three-hour boat ride to explore Tortuguero National Park. Observe over 350 protected species of birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and sloths, as well as lush vegetation. During the season of July to September, you can join an optional late-night turtle nesting tour, which may be purchased directly at the lodge.
Overnight in Tortuguero
Day 4: Tortuguero National Park - Arenal (B/L/-)
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The day will start with an early morning boat departure to Guapiles. Arrive and transfer to the local restaurant to enjoy lunch. You will then be picked up in a shared transfer to the Arenal area. Spend the day on your own or indulge in our optional activities on offer.
Overnight in Arenal
Day 5: Arenal (B/-/-)
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Later, embark on a guided walking tour to explore Arenal Volcano National Park. During the tour, the guide will explain the periods of activity the once very active volcano experienced. Admire the lush landscapes and the backdrop of the now-dormant volcano as you keep a lookout for the wild animals living in this National Park. You will have the opportunity to see sloths, howler monkeys, anteaters, and many others. From there you will return to the hotel to spend the rest of the day at leisure. Optionally you may book one of our optional tours.
Overnight in Arenal
Day 6: Arenal - Monteverde (B/-/-)
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the Arenal Lake area, where you will board your boat to Monteverde. On the other side of the lake, the vehicle will take you up to Monteverde. Admire the transition of the rainforest to the cloud forest where you will reach an altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level. Situated in the province of Puntarenas, Monteverde is a place full of cloud forests and mists, coffee plantations, monkeys, and friendly locals. The small and quaint town of Santa Elena is filled with inviting restaurants and folksy artisan shops, while the nearby rainforest hosts a remarkable amount of biodiversity. Spend the day at leisure. Explore the charms of the beautiful surroundings on your own or book one of our optional tours on offer.
Overnight in Monteverde
Day 7: Monteverde (B/-/-)
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Founded in 1972, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is famous for its outstanding biodiversity, conservation actions and contributions, and scientific research. The reserve is home to 2.5% of the worlds biodiversity, and it is one of the most important private reserves, not just in Costa Rica but the world. It hosts hundreds of species of mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and arachnids, as well as a large variety of flora, such as mosses, vines, and the autochthonous trees of the Cloud Forest. Head on a hike through the Cloud Forest to discover its biodiversity. You can enhance your experience by joining some of the optional tours on offer.
Overnight in Monteverde
Day 8: Monteverde - Tamarindo (B/-/-)
Location: Tamarindo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Later, head to the stunning beachside destination of Tamarindo in the mesmerizing area of Guanacaste. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore the surroundings on your own. Stroll through the beautifully arranged streets of Tamarindo or unwind and enjoy facilities at the hotel. Â
Overnight in Tamarindo
Day 9: Tamarindo (B/-/-)
Location: Tamarindo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend a full day at leisure in Tamarindo, a breathtaking corner of the tropics. Tamarindo Beach is part of a bay formed by a cape, Cabo Velas, and Playa Grande lies to the north of Tamarindo inside the bay. The two beaches are separated by Central Americas largest mangrove estuary, Estero de Tamarindo. South of Tamarindo lies another beautiful estuary, Estero de San Francisco, and the beautiful Playa Langosta. These beaches and estuaries are part of Las Baulas National Park.
Overnight in Tamarindo
Day 10: Tamarindo (B/-/-)
Location: Tamarindo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore more of Tamarindo. Spend free time under the sun, playing with the waves, or enjoy a cultural encounter with the locals walking around the beach town. Tamarindo offers a wide range of restaurants with exquisite local and international cuisine.
Overnight in Tamarindo
Day 11: Tamarindo (B/-/-)
Location: Tamarindo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend another day at leisure relaxing by the beach. Get closer to the relaxed local lifestyle and admire the breathtaking beach views while riding on the back of a horse. Visit the Local Church where locals hold mass and musical concerts in English or join an optional excursion available.
Overnight in Tamarindo
Day 12: Tamarindo - San Jose (B/-/-)
Location: San Jose
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the resort. It is now time to say goodbye to the heavenly beaches of Tamarindo. Check out and drive back to San Jose, where you will arrive and check-in at the hotel. The rest of the day will be at leisure for you to explore the city at your own pace. You may choose to pre-book one of our optional tours.
Overnight in San Jose
Day 13: San Jose - (B/-/-)
Location: San Jose
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will be transferred back to the airport for your flight home.
What's Included
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12 Nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed hotels or similar
Accommodation for 12 nights in hotels, based on twin sharing.
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Daily buffet breakfast at the hotel
Daily buffet breakfast provided at the hotel.
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3 lunches
Three lunches included during the tour.
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2 dinners
Two dinners included during the tour.
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Private arrival and departure airport transfers
Private transfers from and to the airport upon arrival and departure.
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Transportation on an AC vehicle
Transportation throughout the tour in an air-conditioned vehicle.
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Sightseeing as per the itinerary
Sightseeing tours as outlined in the itinerary.
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Entrance fees as per the itinerary
Entrance fees to attractions as mentioned in the itinerary.
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Service of bilingual English/Spanish-speaking local guides
Guided tours with bilingual English/Spanish-speaking local guides.
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Guided boat tour in Tortuguero National Park Canals
Guided boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero National Park.
What's Not Included
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Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities
Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Visa fees if applicable
Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.
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Optional tours and activities
Optional tours and activities are not included and can be purchased separately.
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Departure taxes (USD 29 per person)
Departure taxes of USD 29 per person are not included.
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All items not mentioned as included
Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with private arrival and departure airport transfers, and transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.
Accommodation
Enjoy 12 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, surrounded by beautiful tropical forests and wildlife.
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 over 350 protected species of birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and sloths, as well as lush vegetation. During the turtle hatching season, you may also encounter baby turtles trying to find their way to the ocean.
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What activities are included in the Arenal Volcano National Park visit?
During the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, you will embark on a guided walking tour where the guide will explain the periods of activity the once very active volcano experienced. You will also have the opportunity to see sloths, howler monkeys, anteaters, and other wild animals living in the park.
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What can I do during my free time in Monteverde?
In Monteverde, you can explore the charms of the beautiful surroundings on your own or book optional tours. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is famous for its biodiversity and conservation efforts, and you can hike through the Cloud Forest to discover its flora and fauna.
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What is the significance of Tamarindo Beach?
Tamarindo Beach is part of a bay formed by Cabo Velas and is known for its beautiful estuaries and proximity to Las Baulas National Park. The area offers a wide range of activities, including beach relaxation, cultural encounters, and exploring the local mangrove estuaries.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities available during the tour. For example, in Tortuguero National Park, you can join a late-night turtle nesting tour during the season of July to September. In Arenal and Monteverde, you can book various optional tours to enhance your experience.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes daily buffet breakfast at the hotel, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners. Specific meals are provided on certain days as per the itinerary.
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What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
Transportation during the tour is provided on an air-conditioned (AC) vehicle. Additionally, private arrival and departure airport transfers are included.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 12 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.
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Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary includes several guided tours such as a guided boat tour in Tortuguero National Park Canals, a guided hike in Arenal Volcano National Park, and a guided hike in Monteverde Cloud Forest.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
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If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.
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Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?
In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.
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Low Deposit
Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.