Active Costa Rica

Today, you will travel through dense jungle and along the banks of the Pacuare River, where you will climb into a hanging gondola to cross the water – quite an adventure! There is just a 300 meters hike to the Pacuare Lodge. Here you will find a unique jungle oasis nestled in the most remarkable setting. Without the distractions of technology, guests can connect fully to the rhythms and romance of the rainforest and with their own travelling companions. The candlelit rooms make for a cosy, intimate guest experience.

Awaken the following morning to the harmonious melody created by the sounds of the river and the sweet songs of tropical birds. During the morning, you can enjoy one of the available activities (extra cost), hike to the local native community or hike to the nearby waterfall.

For the rest of the day, you are at leisure to enjoy the scenic beauty of the natural surroundings of the Pacuare River or participate in the optional activities offered at the lodge. Thanks to its proximity to the Caribbean lowlands and the high annual rainfall, this area has an extraordinary abundance of rainforests with massive vegetation, providing protection for jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths and numerous species of birds and plants which offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Today is full of adventure and adrenaline. A professional guide and the right equipment will be waiting at the river, and after some safety instructions, you will start on this incredible rafting journey. In the water, you will experience the exhilaration of riding the waves on this wild and scenic river, which passes through picturesque canyons where crystal-clear waterfalls plummet down into the rapidly coursing river below. You may stop to explore side streams that lead to striking waterfalls and pools with a natural waterslide that tempts you to jump. A picnic lunch will be served along the river, and when you reach the end, you can change into dry clothes and head to the drop-off point.

From here, you will receive your car rental to start your journey toward the northern lowlands. Along this route, you will pass through different towns such as Puerto Viejo (Sarapiqui), San Miguel, Venecia and Aguas Zarcas. In addition, along the way you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, which includes amazing views of the mountains and one of the major sources of revenue in the area, the agriculture. Depending on the season, you will observe pineapple, banana and/or sugar cane crops. You will arrive in Boca Tapada late in the afternoon.

The next day, you are at leisure to explore the wonders of this area on your own. A boat tour on the San Carlos River, Walking Tours, horseback riding or a night tour are part of the optional (extra cost) activities in the area.

After breakfast, you will be making your way to the Arenal – Fortuna area, home of the famous Arenal Volcano. The drive from Celeste River to the Arenal Volcano area is relatively short; in fact, you can take it at your own speed to admire the scenery as you go along the different plantations. After this, you will be able to enjoy a two-night stay at a hotel in the Arenal volcano area.

This region is characterised by the countryside of rural towns. The lands are dedicated to agriculture and cattle ranches that become what many people have called the heart of the country. The main attraction of this area is by far the Arenal Volcano, which rises 1,633 meters above sea level, showing off its almost perfect conic shape.

The next day is reserved for you to enjoy the different tourist attractions (at extra cost) that are near the Arenal Volcano. If you want to explore the area in a more exciting way, we recommend the Sky Tram & Sky Trek. This excursion combines the ascent to the top of the mountains by means of a cable car, enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Lake Arenal, while the descent is made by means of pulleys attached to transverse cables that go from one mountain to another to give way to adventure and fun. If you prefer a quieter excursion and to admire the natural beauty of the northern plains, we recommend a visit to the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a system of trails immersed in the tropical rainforest where 16 hanging bridges are found. The bridges and trails were built with all types of visitors and their safety in mind. This route is adorned by magnificent views of the imposing Arenal Volcano, and regularly you can find an enormous variety of species such as mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and insects.

Today you will leave Arenal behind you and continue to Rio Perdido Lodge, dramatically perched above two converging rivers. This afternoon you’ll have a chance to follow walking trails in the forest, visit the thermal mineral pools or relax with a massage at the spa. Tonight, you can opt to take a guided walk to the thermal river before returning to your cosy bungalow.

The following day is your chance to take the canyon adventure with its mix of wall-mounted platforms, ladders and via ferrata, Tarzan and pendulum swings and zip-lines. It’s high octane adventure, guaranteed to set the pulse racing. You’ll have time to enjoy the thermal pools, hot springs and relaxation decks.

Today will continue on your wonderful experience driving to Santa Teresa beach in the Nicoya Peninsula. It is one of the World’s five Blue Zones, as recognized by UNESCO, for the healthy lives and longevity presented by its population. In this magical place is Nantipa, the newest Luxury Boutique hotel that has been inaugurated in Costa Rica. Nantipa’s mission is to combine World Class design with authentic Costa Rican hospitality right on one of the country’s top beaches. The vibrant and unique natural setting and the barefoot luxury feel of Santa Teresa provide the perfect setting to deliver unique and memorable experiences.

Spend the next 2 days at your leisure, exploring the area and learning about the local customs. Santa Teresa is an authentic beach town with its own unique culture and style. Many define Santa Teresa as the new home for barefoot luxury, combining world-class surfing conditions, great yoga studios and instructors, superb cuisine and great nature and parks, all in a relaxed atmosphere that depicts Costa Rica’s Pura Vida lifestyle.

Many well-known restaurants featuring cuisine from many regions, along with bakeries, coffee shops, small strip malls and bars are found along the main road and on the beachside, giving guests a wealth of dining, shopping and nightlife alternatives.

After breakfast, it will be time to drive back to the central volcanic mountain range. You will enjoy beautiful landscapes en route to the Central Valley. Delight in the unique combination of comfort and nature surrounded by coffee fields and wonderful views of the Central Valley.

Today, you will be making your way to SJO International Airport where you will drop off the car. Please consider the additional timing to drop off the car and also consider that as per airport regulations, passengers are requested to be at the airport 3 hours before the departure time of their flight for the checking-in process.