SHORTLIST

Viva Costa Rica

Ready for Costa Rica? From beach towns to dense rainforests, you'll snorkel, scuba dive, zip line and surf your way around Central America’s most on-trend travel destination. 8 nights of Costa Rica’s teeming coral reefs, awe-inspiring wildlife, dramatic volcans and rejuvenating hot springs await.
Tour details
Tour Provider Contiki
Price From
$3,413
Number of Days
9
Start Location
San Jose, Costa Rica
End Location
San Jose, Costa Rica
Age Range
18 to 35
Group Size
20 to 45
Tour Style
Standard
Tour Themes
No specific theme
Physical Rating
Easy to Moderate
Itinerary Open all
San Jose to Arenal via Sarapiqui
Hola San Jose! After meeting up with your fellow Costa Rican explorers this morning we'll get straight on the road, bound for the biodiverse beauty of Sarapiqui.



Renowned for its fertile lands and gorgeous scenery, we'll stop off here for our first taste of fresh Costa Rican air - and our first dose of adventure for those keen to get a little wet and wild.



How to round off the first day of our adventure? How about catching our first glimpse of one of the most incredible volcans in Costa Rica, Arenal. This volcano is near perfectly formed and famed for its hot springs and healing properties. Dinner tonight will be a group affair in town after an action-packed first day. And our accommodation for the night is something special, set within stunning gardens in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano. Take a dip in the pool or watch iguanas bask atop the trees. This is the life.
Arenal
Rappelling through a rainforest canyon will be the perfect wake up call this morning. Not keen? How about taking advantage of the regions geothermal properties with a visit to the hot springs this afternoon? Whichever you decide - adventure, wellness or both, the day is going to be one to remember.
Arenal to Playa Tamarindo
Leaving Arenal towering behind us this morning we'll move on for a taste of Costa Rican beach life.


Playa Tamarindo has the reputation of being Costa Rica's numero uno surf and party destination, and for good reason. This northern beach town boasts tasty waves and golden sands dotted with lounge bars and awesome restaurants. We'll be staying right by the beach so early morning swims are high on the agenda.
Playa Tamarindo
The bohemian atmosphere of Playa Tamarindo is utterly infectious, and it won't take long to ease into the pace of life here. Spend the day in the water snorkelling or scuba diving amongst the marine life, or stay above the waves and give surfing a try. This afternoon, why not take advantage of our catamaran cruise Add-On, another unique way to experience this beautiful ocean paradise.
Playa Tamarindo to Monteverde
It's goodbye to the beach life for now as we pack up our towels and make for the mountains.


Feel the clean air filling your lungs as we arrive at the misty forests of Monteverde - a sight guaranteed to take your breath away. This leafy wildlife hotspot is home to butterfly gardens, coffee plantations, countless monkey species and passionate locals who work hard to preserve the balance between nature and tourism. We'll spend some time with our friends at SINAC, helping protect, preserve and regenerate the local forests with a tree planting experience. You'll even get to name your tree! We'll also learn about everyone's favourite caffeinated friend - coffee. One of Costa Rica's most famous exports, we'll learn how the plants are cultivated and the entire process of turning delicious little berries into invigorating coffee beans.
Monteverde
You could spend your morning ziplining a 1km line through the treetops today; and the adventures don't stop there. If you're looking for something a bit more tranquil, take a stroll on the hanging bridges amongst the lush cloud forest.
Monteverde to Jaco
Monteverde, it's been emotional, but we've got some beach hangs on our horizons. 


Beachside Jaco is known for its surfing, nightlife and its optimal location as a gateway to Costa Rica's national parks. This afternoon it's time to check out the town or get right into some relaxing by the pool (or at the bar) whilst contemplating Costa Rican life, soaking up these last few days in paradise.
Jaco
Rise and shine! This morning we'll head over to Manuel Antonio, a spectacular national park.


Manuel Antonio serves up a dizzying mix of ancient rainforest, pristine beaches and dazzling coral reefs. Get your cameras ready and be on the hunt for wildlife as we walk through this hub of mind boggling biodiversity.



After a day of exploration, we'll arrive back at our hotel this evening for some poolside relaxation.
Jaco to San Jose
After a final adventure op in Jaco (kayaking, anyone?) we'll make our way back to San Jose where our trip will come to a close. 


What an adventure it's been. Swap deets, we'll see each other on the road again soon.
Inclusions
  • 4 Dinner (D)
  • 8 Breakfast (B)
Departure dates
Start End Availability Price NZD
15 Jun 2024 23 Jun 2024 Available $3,413
31 Aug 2024 08 Sep 2024 Available $3,413
26 Oct 2024 03 Nov 2024 Available $3,413
04 Jan 2025 12 Jan 2025 Available $3,643
25 Jan 2025 02 Feb 2025 Available $3,643
22 Feb 2025 02 Mar 2025 Available $3,643
22 Mar 2025 30 Mar 2025 Available $4,090
05 Apr 2025 13 Apr 2025 Available $4,090
26 Apr 2025 04 May 2025 Available $4,090
17 May 2025 25 May 2025 Available $4,090
31 May 2025 08 Jun 2025 Available $4,090
14 Jun 2025 22 Jun 2025 Available $4,090
05 Jul 2025 13 Jul 2025 Available $4,090
19 Jul 2025 27 Jul 2025 Available $4,090
09 Aug 2025 17 Aug 2025 Available $4,090
30 Aug 2025 07 Sep 2025 Available $4,090
27 Sep 2025 05 Oct 2025 Available $4,090
25 Oct 2025 02 Nov 2025 Available $4,090
22 Nov 2025 30 Nov 2025 Available $4,090
13 Dec 2025 21 Dec 2025 Available $4,090
03 Jan 2026 11 Jan 2026 Available $4,090
24 Jan 2026 01 Feb 2026 Available $4,090
21 Feb 2026 01 Mar 2026 Available $4,090