THE COSTA RICA EXPERIENCE
WHY IT'S DIFFERENT?
Pura Vida! Experience Costa Rica’s rich culture and diverse landscapes, from San José and the waterways of Tortuguero to Arenal’s volcano, Monteverde’s cloud forest, and the sun-soaked Pacific coast.
AVAILABILITY
Your adventure starts here
Book a Call with Us
If you'd rather talk to one of our experts then please book via our calendar below and start planning your next adventure with Untravelled Paths.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Arenal Volcano
Experience breathtaking hikes and stunning views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Taking you through rainforests filled with vibrant plants and wildlife. Perfect for any level of hiker with various routes offering a memorable adventure.
Tortuguero National Park
Set on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Tortuguero is a remote network of jungle canals best explored by boat. Spot monkeys, sloths and birds, and experience one of the country’s most untouched and wildlife-rich regions.
Monteverde's Cloud Forest
Spot the nocturnal wildlife on a guided night walk as the forest comes alive after dark. Then marvel at the famous Quetzal on the early morning birding excursion. A truly unique and immersive nature experience.
The Pacific Coast
Golden sands, world-class surf breaks and sunsets this Costa Rican beach destination. Swim, paddleboard, zip through the jungle canopy or simply sip a cocktail beachside. Finish with a Sunset Catamaran excursion.
La Fortuna
Embark on an exciting wildlife tour to see Costa Rica's diverse flora and fauna where you might spot vibrant toucans, playful monkeys, and elusive sloths in their natural habitats while exploring lush tropical rainforests nearby.
Local Flavours
Explore local plantations with a guided experience into coffee and cacao production, including tastings. Later, enjoy a traditional three-course meal in a local home, offering insight into Costa Rican cuisine and cultural heritage.
"If you have been longing to travel to Costa Rica, then please contact us, we'd would love to tell you about these awesome adventure."
Jackson - Untravelled Paths
TRIP OVERVIEW
YOUR EXPERIENCE
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica, a country renowned for its incredible biodiversity and natural beauty. Your adventure begins in San José, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and meet your fellow travellers before setting off the next day. From here, travel into the remote waterways of Tortuguero, often referred to as Costa Rica’s “Amazon.” Accessible only by boat, this unique region is a network of jungle canals rich in wildlife. Over two nights, explore by boat and on foot, spotting monkeys, sloths and tropical birds, with the option to witness sea turtles nesting in season. Continue to La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano. Spend two nights surrounded by rainforest, with guided hikes, wildlife experiences and time to relax in natural hot springs. For those seeking adventure, optional activities such as canyoning, ziplining and rafting are available. Next, journey to the Pacific coast and Tamarindo, where you’ll spend two nights enjoying a mix of relaxation and ocean-based experiences. Take to the water in search of dolphins, try a surf lesson, or simply unwind on the beach. A sunset catamaran cruise offers a memorable evening on the coast. The journey then continues inland to the cloud forests of Monteverde. Explore this unique ecosystem from above on hanging bridges and discover its nocturnal side on a guided night walk, where the forest comes alive after dark. On your final day, descend into the Central Valley and stop in San Ramón for a private, hosted experience. Enjoy a traditional three-course meal in a local home before returning to San José for a farewell dinner. For those wishing to extend their stay, an optional trip to the Pacific coast offers time in Manuel Antonio, combining rainforest, wildlife and beautiful beaches for a relaxed end to your Costa Rica adventure.
YOUR EXPERTS
Jackson
The Wanderer - Meet Jackson
James
The Brains Behind the Operation - Meet James
NEED TO KNOW
| DESTINATION | Costa Rica |
| DURATION | 9 Nights |
| GROUP SIZE | 2-16 |
| ASSISTANCE | Hands on |
| AIRPORT | Juan Santamaría Airport |
| FLIGHTS | For details of flights from the UK please see the Trip Details section. |
| VISA | UK, EU, USA not required |
| VACCINATIONS | None |
TRIP GALLERY
TRIP ITINERARY
Arrive in San José, transfer to your hotel, and join a welcome meeting & dinner to kick off your adventure.
INCLUDED
- Airport Transfer
Travel form San Jose through rainforest landscapes before continuing by boat into Tortuguero’s canal network. After arrival and a village walk, the evening is free, with an optional turtle nesting experience available in season.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Canal Wildlife Tour
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Turtle Nesting Experience (Seasonal)
Begin with a sunrise canal safari, spotting wildlife from the water. A guided rainforest walk is included, with optional kayaking available for a different perspective through the surrounding jungle. Tortuguero is often called Costa Rica’s “Amazon,” with no roads, with everything explored by boat through a network of jungle canals.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Sunrise Wildlife Canal Tour
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Kayaking
Depart Tortuguero by boat and road, arriving in La Fortuna beneath Arenal Volcano. In the evening, unwind in natural hot springs surrounded by rainforest.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Hot Springs Experience
Explore Arenal Volcano National Park on a guided hike, followed by a wildlife walk at Bogarin Trail. The afternoon is flexible, with optional adventure activities or relaxation.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Wildlife Walking Tour
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Canyoning / Waterfall Rappelling
- Rainforest Ziplining
- Spa Treatment at the Resort
- Whitewater Rafting
Travel toward the Pacific coast with scenic views around Lake Arenal, passing rolling hills and rural landscapes. En route, visit Don Juan Arenal Coffee & Chocolate Tour for an immersive experience into Costa Rica’s coffee and chocolate traditions, with tastings included. Continue to Tamarindo and settle in before enjoying sunset cocktails by the beach.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Don Juan Chocolate & Coffee Experience
Enjoy a free day to explore the beautiful coastal surroundings. In the morning, choose from optional activities such as kayaking through the mangroves at Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge or participating in a turtle nesting experience at the same venue. In the afternoon, take advantage of your free time for beach relaxation or enjoy the resort amenities. You can also visit quieter beaches, including Playa Minas, Playa Flamingo, and Playa Conchal. In the evening, you will enjoy the Catamaran experience, sailing around the beautiful water with various stops for snorkelling.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Catamaran Experience
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Kayak Tour through Mangroves at Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge
- Turtle Nesting Experience at Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge
- Surfing Lesson
- Spa Treatment
Travel inland to the cool, misty highlands of Monteverde, where the landscape shifts dramatically into lush cloud forest. On arrival, explore elevated hanging bridges set high within the canopy, offering a different perspective of this unique ecosystem. As night falls, head out on a guided walk to discover the forest after dark, when frogs, insects and nocturnal wildlife begin to emerge.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Cloud Forest Entry & Night Walk
Depart Monteverde and descend from the cloud forest into the Central Valley, with changing landscapes along the way. Stop in San Ramón for a private, hosted experience in a local home, enjoying a traditional three-course meal paired with regional produce. Continue to San José for a relaxed final evening and farewell dinner.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Today sadly for those of you that aren't extending your trip, your trip journey comes to an end with a final transfer to the airport for your departure. If extended you will travel from San José to the Central Pacific coast, arriving in Manuel Antonio. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park with a guided walk through rainforest trails, where wildlife is often spotted close by. The afternoon is yours to relax on the beach or by the pool, followed by dinner overlooking the ocean.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
- Guided National Park Wildlife Walk
- Private Transfer
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Manuel Antonio, with time to explore, unwind or take in the coastal scenery. As the day slows, enjoy cocktails by the water and a sunset overlooking the Pacific.
INCLUDED
- Breakfast
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Spa Treatment
- Wildlife Boat Tour
- Snorkelling Tour
TRIP ACCOMMODATION
A selection of our accommodation, which is subject to availability, however alternatives are always of a similar price, grade and location.
San Jose
Costa Rica
Barrio Escalante is a safe and charming neighbourhood in San José, known for its artistic atmosphere, diverse culinary offerings, and lively cafes.
Typical Accommodation: Bee Suites Escalante or similar.
Tortuguero
Costa Rica
Tortuguero is a remote network of jungle canals on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, known for rich wildlife, waterways, and important sea turtle nesting beaches. Typical accommodation: Mawamba Lodge or or similar.
La Fortuna
Costa Rica
La Fortuna is a picturesque town nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and adventure opportunities.
Typical Accommodation: Hotel Los Lagos Spa or similar.
Tamarindo
Costa Rica
Tamarindo is a lively beach town on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, famous for its stunning sunsets, excellent surf conditions and laid-back atmosphere.
Typical Accommodation: Wyndham Tamarindo or similar.
Monterverde
Costa Rica
Monteverde is a cloud forest in Costa Rica’s highlands, known for unique biodiversity, hanging bridges, and rich wildlife, offering cooler temperatures. Typical accommodation: Casa Coyota Hotel or or similar.
Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio is a stunning coastal destination renowned for its national park featuring a mix of rainforest, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife.
Typical Accommodation: Shana by the Beach or or similar.
TRIP LOCATION
WHERE YOU'RE GOING
Costa Rica is a paradise of unparalleled biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems, showcasing breathtaking landscapes that range from pristine beaches to lush rainforests and towering volcanoes. Spanning approximately 51,000 square kilometers, this compact country offers a wealth of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable adventures. From the vibrant wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park to the serene hot springs of La Fortuna and the stunning coral reefs of the Caribbean coast, Costa Rica invites exploration of its ecological treasures and cultural richness. It's a destination that promises exhilarating experiences and a deep connection to nature, making it an essential stop for any traveler.
DID YOU KNOW
- Costa Rica is home to about 5% of the world’s biodiversity, despite covering only 0.03% of the Earth's surface.
- Costa Rica is one of the few countries in the world without a standing army.
- The phrase "Pura Vida," meaning "pure life," is a common expression in Costa Rica.
- Costa Rica is home to one of the world's "Blue Zones," specifically the Nicoya Peninsula, where people tend to live longer, healthier lives.
FAST FACTS
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| POPULATION | |
| CURRENCY | |
| TIME DIFFERENCE |
"Costa Rica alone is extraordinary, but if time allows, I truly urge you to extend your journey. Manuel Antonio offers incredible rest and relaxation, while Guatemala and Belize add fascinating culture and history. We'd love to help you plan it."
James - Untravelled Paths
TRIP TIPS
Central Market Visit
Explore San José's vibrant market, open Monday to Saturday from 6am to 6pm, for an authentic taste of local culture, fresh food and a lively, colourful atmosphere.
Turtle Nesting
Witness sea turtles nesting on Costa Rica's beaches — a truly magical experience. Season and species vary by coastline. Contact us for further information.
Surfing Lesson
Experience surfing in Costa Rica with lessons in Tamarindo, known for its excellent waves. It's an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned surfers to enjoy the water.
Extend Your Trip
Extend your Costa Rica adventure into Manuel Antonio for some rest and relaxation, or combine with the likes of Guatemala or Belize. Contact us for assistance.
TRIP DETAILS
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- ALL TRANSFERS
- Airport
- In-Country Transfers
- ALL ACCOMMODATION
- 2 Nights in San Jose
- 2 Nights in Tortuguero
- 2 Nights in La Fortuna
- 2 Nights in Tamarindo
- 1 Night in Monterverde
- MEALS
- All Breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- ACTIVITIES
- Sunrise Canal Safari
- Catamaran Excursion
- Coffee and Chocolate Tour
- Costa Rican Food Experience
- Volcano Lava Trail Hike
- Guided Wildlife Tour at Bogarin Trail
- Cloud Forest Night Walk
- UNTRAVELLED PATHS EXPERIENCE EBOOKLET
GETTING THERE
As a tour operator we are not able to offer inclusive flights as part of our experiences however we are more than happy to help you find the most appropriate incoming and outgoing flights for you. All the listed airports fly directly in and out of San Jose with multiple different airlines to choose from. We highly recommend using Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.
London Gatwick to San Jose
- London Gatwick to Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José with British Airways.
London Heathrow to San Jose via Amsterdam
- London Heathrow to Amsterdam with KLM, followed by a connecting flight to Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José.
London Gatwick to San Jose via Paris
- London to Paris with Air France, followed by a connecting flight to Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José.
London Heathrow to San Jose via Bogota
- London Heathrow to Bogotá with Avianca, followed by a connecting flight to Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José.
FURTHER INFORMATION
INSURANCE
In order to be fully covered on your trip should anything happen, we suggest getting an insurance before you travel. We recommend True Traveller, designed especially for adventure travel, who will be able to tailor an insurance package based on your needs. You can find out more here.
SOLO TRAVELLERS
Our prices are based on people sharing, for solo travellers who would prefer a private room the price per person will include a solo occupancy fee.
EXTRA NIGHTS
If you wish we can also organise extra nights at either end of your trip for you.
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HOW IT WORKS
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FAQs
The local currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). However, US dollars are widely accepted in many tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Costa Rica is not strictly a cash society, but cash is commonly used, especially in rural areas and for small transactions. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and tourist destinations, making electronic payments increasingly popular. However, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and local markets.
Yes, Costa Rica has a tipping culture. While service charges are often included in bills at restaurants, it is customary to tip around 10% for good service. For other services, such as taxi rides and hotel staff, rounding up or leaving a small amount is appreciated. Tipping is not mandatory but is a common practice to acknowledge good service.
In Costa Rica, meal costs can vary widely. On average, budget around $5 to $10 for a meal at a local “soda” (casual restaurant) and $15 to $30 for dining at mid-range restaurants. Higher-end dining may cost $30 or more per person.
Our digital booklet, which you will receive before travel, contains all the information you need about optional activities. Simply drop us an email letting us know what you'd like to do during your trip, and we'll take care of the rest. Please note that the payment for the optional activities will be taken locally in cash.
Costa Rica has a tropical climate, characterised by a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November. Coastal areas tend to be warmer and more humid, while the central highlands have cooler temperatures. Average temperatures range from 21°C to 32°C depending on the region and elevation.
The official language spoken in Costa Rica is Spanish. Highly recommended to learn basic phrases to enhance experience as English isn't widely spoken outside of the touristic hubs.
You can always contact the UTP team on +44 207 101 4061 or info@untravelledpaths.com. Before you travel, you will also receive a personalised itinerary with the contact details of the local manager in Romania should there be any problems. Your guide will be on hand throughout the trip as well, so you're in safe hands.
Yes, tap water in Costa Rica is generally safe to drink, especially in urban areas and major tourist destinations.
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm weather; a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings; and a rain jacket for the rainy season.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, sandals, and water shoes for beach activities.
Accessories: Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat.
Swimwear: Swimsuits for beach and hot springs visits.
Outdoor Gear: Insect repellent, sunscreen, and a small backpack for day trips.
