Signature Journey
Costa Rican Highlights Tour
A flexible journey through Costa Rica's icons — rainforest canals, volcano trails, cloud forest air, and Pacific beach time — designed for couples, friends and families, with private transfers and expert local hosts.
Typical length: 12 days / 11 nights (flexible)
Private / family-friendly
Jungle + volcano + cloud forest + beach
San José • Tortuguero • Arenal • Rincón • Monteverde • Pacific
Transfer times vary with traffic and weather.
The Costa Rica you came for — with everything handled
- Tortuguero canals at dawn — wildlife, waterways, rainforest stillness
- Arenal volcano + hot springs — the classic pairing, done properly
- Monteverde cloud forest — hanging bridges, misty trails, big views
- Pacific coast finish — beach time + national park wildlife
- Family-ready logistics — private transfers, smart pacing, flexible days
Trip highlights
Tortuguero dawn canal safari (wildlife focus)
Arenal volcano trails + hot springs soak
La Fortuna waterfall swim (conditions permitting)
Rincón de la Vieja waterfalls + volcanic landscapes
Monteverde hanging bridges + optional zipline
Pacific beach finish + national park wildlife walk
Day-by-day itinerary
A sample plan. We'll tailor the sequence, pace, and upgrades to your dates and priorities.
Day 1
Arrive San José (easy landing day)
- Airport meet + private transfer
- Optional gentle city stroll / early dinner recommendation
- Rest and reset
Day 2
San José → Tortuguero (rainforest waterways)
- Early transfer + boat into Tortuguero region
- Check-in + relaxed village/trails
- Optional sunset canal cruise
Day 3
Tortuguero canals (wildlife day)
- Dawn canal safari (best wildlife window)
- Free time (pool / lodge trails)
- Optional night walk (seasonal)
Day 4
Tortuguero → Arenal / La Fortuna
- Boat out + private transfer across the country
- Arrive La Fortuna + easy afternoon
- Optional hot springs (evening)
Day 5
Arenal volcano + hot springs
- Guided volcano walk (adjustable difficulty)
- Lunch stop recommendation
- Hot springs soak
Day 6
La Fortuna choice day (families love this)
- Waterfall visit (conditions permitting)
- Choose: hanging bridges / sloth walk / adventure add-on
- Flexible evening
Day 7
Arenal → Rincón de la Vieja
- Scenic transfer into Guanacaste's volcanic zone
- Check-in + relaxed afternoon
- Optional short trail / viewpoint
Day 8
Rincón: waterfalls + volcanic landscapes
- Guided nature walk (routes depend on access/conditions)
- Waterfall swim stop (conditions permitting)
- Easy lodge evening
Day 9
Rincón → Monteverde (cloud forest)
- Transfer into cooler highlands
- Check-in + town stroll
- Optional night walk
Day 10
Monteverde cloud forest day
- Hanging bridges / reserve walk
- Optional zipline (very popular here)
- Sunset viewpoint if skies are clear
Day 11
Monteverde → Pacific coast finish
- Transfer to the coast
- Beach afternoon, relaxed pace
- Dinner recommendations
Day 12
Depart (or extend)
- Optional morning wildlife walk / beach time
- Private transfer back toward SJO
- Or extend: extra beach nights / slower pacing
Transfer times are approximate. Sequence can be reversed to suit flight times.
León
Poneloya
Cerro Negro
Managua
Granada
Mombacho
Day 1 — San José
Arrive San José
What's included
- Private airport meet + all listed point-to-point transfers
- Accommodation (boutique + nature stays), tailored to your style
- Expert local guides for key activities (as scheduled)
- Tortuguero canal safari (as scheduled)
- Trip concierge planning + on-trip WhatsApp support
What's not included
- International flights
- Meals not stated (we'll recommend great spots)
- Optional adventure activities (zipline, rafting, etc.)
- Tips / gratuities
- Travel insurance
Upgrade your trip
- Hot springs upgrade (more private / premium option)
- Zipline + aerial experience bundle (Monteverde)
- White-water rafting day (age/conditions dependent)
- Extra beach nights (slow it down at the end)
- Seasonal wildlife focus (timed to your dates)
Best time to go
Dec–Apr (Dry)
Clearer skies, easiest logistics, classic beach weather.
May–Oct (Green)
Lush rainforest, fewer crowds, dramatic scenery — expect short showers.
Ask us about Tortuguero wildlife seasons and the best month for your priorities.
Frequently asked questions
Is this suitable for kids/families?
Yes. We'll tailor pacing, travel days, and activity intensity. Many experiences are great for families, and optional adventure days can be swapped or softened.
How active is the trip?
Moderate by default, adjustable. Volcano and forest walks can be easier or more challenging, and adventure add-ons are optional.
Can we customise hotels and route?
Absolutely — hotel style, number of beach nights, and pace are all flexible.
How do transfers work?
Private transfers throughout, planned around comfort and timing. We reconfirm pickup windows before each travel day.
What about food and meals?
Breakfast is typically included. For other meals, we'll set expectations clearly and recommend reliable places.
When should we book?
Earlier is better for peak months and the best lodge options — but we can often build a great version closer-in.
Want us to tailor your Costa Rica journey?
Send your month, group size, and any upgrades you're considering. We'll reply with availability and a clear plan.