Costa Rica's Pacific & luxury yacht expedition

Relax in your complimentary airport lounge before boarding your flight to Costa Rica this morning. On arrival, you'll be greeted by a representative for your private transfer to your centrally located hotel in the heart of San José. San José is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a vibrant culture. The city offers bags of colonial charm, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings and lush parks. Take the chance to explore the National Museum of Costa Rica, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Market, where you can find a variety of local crafts and souvenirs.

Enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet at your hotel this morning before departing south towards the Pacific coast. On the way, you'll stop for a visit to the Copey Winery Estate. As the first and only commercial winery in Costa Rica, it produces high-quality wines using grapes grown on the estate's vineyards. The winery also produces a unique liquor made from the golden berry fruit, more commonly referred to as uchuva. The uchuva is considered one of the healthiest super fruits in the world and is endowed with a rather distinctive and delicious flavour. During your private visit, you will be able to see the plantation, taste the fruit, learn about the liquor process and taste it in two different presentations.

Later, you'll arrive at your opulent, adults-only retreat, complete with panoramic ocean views and luxury minimalist suites. Take advantage of your private plunge pool and spacious terrace or head to the hotel's communal infinity pool. Then, as the sun sets below the horizon, perhaps enjoy dinner inspired by fresh, local ingredients, showcasing the flavours of Costa Rica.

The natural wonder known as Nauyaca is the most spectacular waterfall in Costa Rica, simply a must-do when visiting the country. It comprises two impressive waterfalls, along with a large natural pool for swimming. Your private tour will begin with a 4km hike through lush rainforest to reach the first waterfall, a majestic 45-meter free fall. Continue your journey to the second waterfall, a tiered beauty standing at 20 meters. After the hike, reward yourself with an invigorating swim in the crystal-clear 1,000sqm pool or explore the smaller natural pools for a more intimate experience.

Transfer back to your hotel in time for an optional dinner at the resort's beachfront restaurant, with fresh, locally-sourced cuisine on offer. Then, why not head to the bar and watch the sun dip below the horizon as you sip on a handcrafted cocktail.

Your day begins with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before checking out and transferring to Golfito Marina. From here, you'll board the Kontiki Wayra, a 128-foot luxury yacht offering an intimate and personalised expedition experience. With its beautifully appointed cabins, plush interiors and communal areas, the yacht boasts a variety of amenities, including a sun deck, gourmet salon, outdoor lounges, organic bar, hot tub, gym and fitness area.

Upon boarding, your expedition leader will welcome you aboard and provide a briefing. As you set sail towards Los Mogos for the start of your week-long expedition, enjoy a welcome cocktail on the sun deck. As the sun begins to set, indulge in a delicious welcome dinner at the on-board restaurant. One of the highlights of this region is the chance to witness bioluminescent waves. The bay is renowned for its abundance of bioluminescent plankton, which create a mesmerising display of blue sparks in the water as you sail through the night.

Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast aboard the yacht this morning before arriving in Los Mogos, the narrow landmass connecting Costa Rica's mainland to the Osa Peninsula. You'll start the day off at leisure as you enjoy the calm spa-like waters of the region, admiring the lush rainforest backdrop. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys and macaws that inhabit the area. A private beach experience with a picnic and full bar service awaits, as your expedition team deploys the yacht's oceanic club, offering everything from paddle boards and kayaks to sea bobs and a waterslide. 

This afternoon, enjoy lunch onboard before joining a kayaking expedition through tranquil mangroves in nearby Rio Esquinas to witness a breathtaking sunset on the calm waters of the river. Return to the yacht in time for dinner.

Disembark in Puerto Jimenez this morning for a visit to Finca Kobo, a traditional Costa Rican cocoa farm. Explore the rich history of cacao on a short hike through the plantation. Witness the fascinating chocolate-making process firsthand and try a variety of tropical fruits and freshly made chocolate fondue. There will even be the chance to try the cacao fruit straight from the tree. Return to the yacht for a leisurely lunch.

Then, a zodiac excursion will offer the exciting opportunity to spot two species of dolphins in their natural habitat. During whale season, it is also possible to spot humpback whales with their calves as they come to warm waters to mate. Dinner will be served onboard on your return.

Arrive in Punta Adela, and after breakfast, a special underwater snorkelling excursion takes you along a submerged coral trail. It is part of a project which aims to rebuild the coral population in Golfo Dulce, a tropical fjord that is a nursery for many beautiful species including hammerhead sharks. Explore the colourful underwater world before returning to the yacht for lunch.

This afternoon, join a workshop with members of the Boruca community, one of the few indigenous communities left in Costa Rica. Enjoy a hands-on experience painting their famous wooden masks as you learn about their traditions and its influence in their culture.

Disembark in Corcovado National Park with a wet landing in the beach at La Sirena ranger station. Renowned as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and a naturalist's dream, Corcovado National Park's ancient forests teem with life. It boasts over 100 types of mammal, 367 bird species and 117 amphibian and reptile specie, meaning today's hike along the untamed coastal stretch – the La Leona trail – presents a prime opportunity to spot various species of monkeys, tapirs, scarlet macaws and a colourful array of toucans, including yellow-throated, keel-billed and fiery-billed aracari. Return to the boat for lunch on board before a free afternoon to relax as you sail towards Drake Bay. Perhaps rejuvenate with a visit to the onboard spa after a day of exploring. Weather permitting, enjoy dinner al fresco this evening.

Embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure off the coast of Caño Island today, home to one of the Pacific Ocean's largest and most pristine coral reefs. Snorkel among the vibrant marine life and witness the breathtaking beauty of this underwater paradise. You'll also go in search of pods of playful spinner dolphins. Weather permitting, embrace the incredible opportunity to swim alongside these magnificent creatures. For certified divers, there will be the chance to Scuba dive in these fertile waters. Back on board, refuel with a delicious lunch before the ocean club is deployed for a selection of marine activities, from sea bobs to kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. Enjoy dinner as you sail towards the Savegre River this evening.

After breakfast disembark the yacht before a private transfer will take you to the Savegre river. Here you will have a special white-water rafting class waiting for you. With II and III class rapids, the Savegre river is the perfect location to try this thrilling activity. Its bends and turns offer adrenaline and excitement to people of all ages; no previous experience is required. You'll admire exuberant flora and abundant fauna while floating down the river, even hopping off your raft to swim in calmer waters. Return to the yacht for lunch.

Relish an afternoon of marine activities in Biesanz Bay with a kayak exploration of the surrounding area, snorkelling, paddle boarding or gliding with sea bobs. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner on board.

After a final breakfast on board, your expedition concludes on arrival to Marina Pez Vela in Quepos. A private transfer will then whisk you to Bajos del Toro, hidden in Costa Rica's highlands and known for its impressive waterfalls. Arrive at your luxurious eco-resort in the heart of the cloud forest. The lodge is surrounded by lush greenery, cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Perhaps take a leisurely stroll through the lodge's private cloud forest reserve, observing the diverse flora and fauna and listening to the sounds of the rainforest. Alternatively, join a yoga or meditation class, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment. Choose from a variety of options, such as a massages, facials or body scrubs. Dinner is served at the lodge's restaurant, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Savour delicious dishes while taking in breathtaking views of the sunset.

The following day, you'll immerse yourself in the region's vibrant culture. Bajos del Toro is a quaint rural community in the heart of the country. Experience the simple joys of traditional life on an included cultural tour, from learning the art of making fresh tortillas at Doña Olga's home to sharing a warm conversation with locals. Just a short drive away, this charming village offers a truly authentic and unforgettable experience. Enjoy a final dinner at the lodge this evening.

After breakfast at the lodge, a private transfer will be waiting to take you back to San José in time for your overnight flight back to the UK.