Classic Costa Rica in style

Enjoy the comfort of your complimentary airport lounge before your day flight to San José, Costa Rica's captivating capital city, amidst a backdrop of dramatic mountain peaks and awe-inspiring volcanoes. On arrival, you'll be greeted by your personal guide who will transfer you to your chosen hotel in the city for your overnight stay. The city is a gateway to the country's stunning national parks and beaches, but also a destination in its own right. If time permits, the bustling central market is a must-visit. Here, you can find fresh produce, handicrafts and delicious street food, while the historic Barrio Amón neighbourhood boasts beautiful Victorian architecture, art galleries and trendy cafes.

Stay: Hotel Grano de Oro

Today begins with an exotic breakfast at the hotel before you depart the city for the beginning of your adventures. A combination of a private transfers and boat rides will bring you to your luxury lodge within Tortuguero National Park, whose coastal rainforest is crisscrossed by a network of canals, swamps and waterways. Stay in your secluded villa overlooking the river, complete with a private plunge pool.

This afternoon you'll set off on a captivating private tour, hiking through Cerro Tortuguero National Park and experiencing the extraordinary biodiversity of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. This lush rainforest, part of the expansive Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge, is home to a remarkable array of wildlife. Your knowledgeable local guide will lead you along well-maintained trails, where you'll encounter countless exotic birds, howler monkeys, capuchins, spider monkeys, vibrant poison dart frogs, sloths and possibly even various wild cats. As you ascend Cerro Tortuguero, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean lowlands, sprawling rainforests and the intricate network of rivers flowing towards the Atlantic Ocean.

Awaken and enjoy a leisurely breakfast to the vibrant chorus of the rainforest, before departing for today's wildlife adventure in Tortuguero National Park. You'll join a local naturalist guide for a three-hour boat expedition, exploring remote backwaters teeming with life. Witness spirited howler monkeys swinging through the canopy and colourful northern jacana birds perched on floating water hyacinths. Keep an eye out for elusive caimans and playful otters along the riverbanks.

Later this afternoon, swap nature for a visit to the local town. From its early inhabitants, the Zambo-Miskito Indians and escaped slaves, to the later arrival of Jamaican immigrants, this region has a fascinating past. Learn about the area's history of turtle hunting, subsistence farming and the impact of the railroad. Today, Tortuguero's residents have embraced conservation and ecotourism. Interact with locals to gain insights into their unique culture and way of life.

This morning, you'll say farewell to Tortuguero and begin the next leg of your adventure with a short flight to La Fortuna, gateway to the stunning Arenal National Park. Take in the sights and sounds of the rainforest as you arrive at your boutique lodge. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans and a variety of reptiles and birds, this lush rainforest is dominated by the majestic Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica's most renowned. The region is also known for its hot springs, which are fed by geothermal waters heated by the volcano; relaxing in one of these natural spas is a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Check in to the lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Choose from a variety of thrilling activities, including horseback riding, rafting, zip-lining, canyoning or exploring the natural wonders of La Fortuna waterfall and Tabacon hot springs. Our specialists can help you select the perfect activities for your interests. Alternatively, make the most the hotel's spa or the private plunge pool in your luxury cabin.

Over the course of the next two days, you'll discover the heart of the country. First, you'll experience the true warmth of Costa Rican hospitality with a tortilla making masterclass in the company of Doña Mara, a beloved abuela (grandmother). Learn the art of making traditional tortillas and savour a delicious, wood-fired lunch. Then, venture back into the wild with private tour of Místico's hanging bridges, suspended high above the rainforest of Arenal National Park. Experience the thrill of a spectacular hike through the lush tropical rainforest, gaining a unique perspective on nature's wonders. The 1.8-mile (3 km) loop trail features 15 bridges, including 6 suspended high above the ground, offering breathtaking views of the treetop canopy. This is a prime habitat for elusive wildlife, and you may encounter monkeys, birds, snakes, lizards and more interesting wildlife along the way.

The following day, your knowledgeable guide will lead you along a 1.2-mile trail through primary and secondary forests at the foot of Arenal Volcano. As you ascend towards the volcano's lava formations, discover the fascinating history of Arenal and identify diverse flora and fauna. Explore one of Costa Rica's most iconic landmarks and be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Arenal and the continental divide, while enjoying an included picnic lunch.

Today you'll leave Arenal for the last leg of your trip. To round off your Costa Rican adventure, we've highlighted two different beach options to choose from. Perhaps conclude your trip on the beachfront eco resort of Arenas del Mar in Manuel Antonio National Park, where butterflies, hummingbirds, scarlet macaws and clambering monkeys inhabit the dense forests that tumbles down to white-sand beaches and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. Alternatively, conclude your trip on a beautiful private peninsula in Papagayo, in the Guanacaste region, where west-facing beaches are among Costa Rica's most idyllic.

Stay: Arenas del Mar

Manuel Antonio National Park option

Renowned for its diverse ecosystem, Manuel Antonio National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Embark on a scenic 2-mile loop trail with your knowledgeable guide pointing out fascinating flora and fauna, including sloths, birds, reptiles, orchids, butterflies and tropical trees. Take a refreshing break at the park's beach, where you can relax and soak up the sun. The following days will offer plenty of free time to enjoy the beach and facilities at the hotel, or you can opt for an optional catamaran excursion to explore the park's stunning coastal waters. Your knowledgeable guide will point out fascinating wildlife and unique vegetation as you admire the natural wonders of the Central Pacific; keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking scenery. Enjoy refreshing beverages and snacks onboard while cruising. Then, opt to snorkel among colourful parrotfish, starfish and angelfish, or simply relax on the catamaran and soak up the sun. Dolphins may even make a surprise appearance. A delicious barbecue lunch is served onboard to complete the day.

Guanacaste option

First, head to Hacienda Guachipelin, in the shadow of the Rincon de la Vieja volcano. Soar through the treetops on exhilarating zip lines, conquer challenging rock climbing routes and feel the rush of adrenaline on the Tarzan swing. Explore the stunning canyon carved by the Blanco river and traverse suspension bridges high above the rushing water. After your heart-pounding adventure, relax and rejuvenate with a horseback ride to the natural hot springs. Soak in the soothing waters and indulge in a mud bath, known for its therapeutic properties and skin benefits. The following day, relish an optional adventure aboard a luxurious 33-foot catamaran. Spend the morning exploring the crystal-clear waters with a variety of water sports, including snorkelling, tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding, stand-up paddle boarding and more. Relax on the beach or enjoy a delicious meal onboard. This tour can be customised to your preferences. There will be plenty of free time to enjoy the beach and facilities at the hotel.

Stay: Arenas del Mar

Savour your last breakfast in your tropical surroundings, before departing with a private transfer to the domestic airport for your short chartered flight to San José, in time for your overnight flight back to the UK.