Ultimate Costa Rica Adventure

  • 9 Days
  • Avg Group Size: 12
  • Activity Level 2
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: San José
  • Trip End: San José
Ulitmate Costa Rica Intro Block 457x530

Plunge into 'la pura vida' on an action-packed 9 day adventure of pure fun in Costa Rica.

You'll hike lush rainforests, mountain bike through jungles, swim in turquoise pools, raft a world-class river, zip line through the forest canopy, and witness the incredible wildlife of this piece of paradise - this adventure has it all. After the adventure activities, there will still be plenty of time for you to relax in mud baths and natural hot springs! The ultimate way to experience the wonderful way of life in Costa Rica, 'La Pura Vida'. You won't want to leave!

Download Our Handy Trip Itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

Ultimate Costa Rica Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: San José Trip End: San José

Download our Handy Trip itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip

  • Day 1Arrive in San José

  • Day 2Overnight rafting experience on Pacuare River

  • Day 3Raft Pacuare River in the Lower Pacuare Gorge

  • Day 4Arenal, La Fortuna Waterfall and Hot Springs

  • Day 5Kayak Lake Arenal, mud baths

  • Day 6Hike to La Cangreja Waterfall, Zip Lining-Canyon Canopy Tour

  • Day 7Las Chorreras Waterfall and Nosara Beach

  • Day 8Mountain Bike Adventure

  • Day 9Return to San Jose

  • Day 1

    Arrive in San José

    #110310

    Welcome to San José, Costa Rica’s capital city! Please make your own way to Hotel Parque del Lago, located walking distance from La Sabana Park and the Museum of Costa Rican Art.

    In the evening you’ll meet with your trip leader, along with the rest of the group, for a full trip briefing and a delicious Tico dinner! 
    Accommodation: Park Inn by Radisson, San Jose
    Meals: Dinner

  • Day 2

    Overnight rafting experience on Pacuare River

    #110311

    This morning we head north to the Pacuare River for a two-day tropical white-water rafting trip, including an overnight at Rios Lodge, nestled in the rainforest on the banks of the Pacuare River. Rated one of the top river rafting locations in the world, we’ll experience the intimate nature as we raft through the rainforest, including two sections of exciting class 3 and 4 rapids with waterfalls along the way.

    From the Ecolodge we can enjoy rainforest hikes with naturalist guides, self-guided walks to waterfalls and pools, relaxation in a hammock overlooking the beautiful Pacuare River, and birdwatching. We'll enjoy dinner this evening in the open air, with the stars above us and vibrant sounds from the jungle.  
    Accommodation: Rios Lodge, Pacuare River
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Rafting: Pacuare River (Class III and IV rapids)

  • Day 3

    Raft Pacuare River in the Lower Pacuare Gorge

    #110312

    After a restful nights sleep in the rainforest we'll head back out onto the river for a full day, taking on more rapids as we raft through the Lower Pacuare Gorge.

    After we pack out we’ll continue to La Fortuna, a small town at the foot of Arenal Volcano where we’ll stay for the next two nights. With lush botanic gardens, free-from hot springs, swimming pools and traditional Costa Rican food, Volcano Lodge is the perfect location to relax. This evening we'll dine together at the hotel. 
    Accommodation: Arenal Observatory Lodge
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Rafting: Lower Pacuare Gorge

  • Day 4

    Arenal, La Fortuna Waterfall and Hot Springs

    #110313

    After breakfast, we’ll spend the morning hiking at the base of Arenal Volcano, along the trails made from the 1968 eruption, with amazing views of the volcano and Arenal Lake. Our second hike will take us to La Fortuna Waterfall. Part of the Arenal Volcano National Park, the waterfall tumbles amidst a biological reserve of 210 acres of transition premontane tropical wet forest. The waterfall itself was formed by the old lava flow of the Cerro Chato volcano. We'll hike along the path to the 70-meter-high waterfall, and have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the Fortuna River, in one of the two natural pools.

    After our morning of adventure, we'll explore the town of La Fortuna, finishing the day with a chance to soak in the local hot springs. 
    Accommodation: Arenal Observatory Lodge
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    La Fortuna Waterfall Hike: 0.6 miles (1 kilometer), 1 hour
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 216 feet (65 meters) ascent, 216 feet (65 meters) descent

  • Day 5

    Kayak Lake Arenal, mud baths

    #110314

    This morning, after a short drive, we'll arrive at Arenal Lake, Costa Rica’s largest and most breathtaking lake. We'll don lifejackets and embark on a kayak tour across the lake. Paddling these calm waters will give us the opportunity to enjoy the wildlife that surrounds the lake such as monkeys, iguanas and a large amount of tropical birds. 

    After our morning kayak, we'll make our way north towards Rincon de La Vieja, one of the largest and most active volcano in Costa Rica, where we'll stay at the foothills.

    We'll settle into Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin, our unique accommodation for the next two nights and the home of Rio Negro Hot Springs and mud baths where we'll spend the afternoon. Rich in minerals, the thermal waters have rejuvenating and therapeutic properties that have been appreciated for centuries by people around the world. Beautiful and relaxing, the volcanic hot springs bubble up on the Rio Negro, naturally heated by the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Later, 
    Accommodation: Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Kayaking: 2 hours

  • Day 6

    Hike to La Cangreja Waterfall, Zip Lining-Canyon Canopy Tour

    #110315

    Today we’ll hike in Rincon de La Vieja National Park to make our way to La Cangreja Waterfall. Along the trail we may spot wildlife such as white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys and spider monkeys, coatis, armadillos, agoutis, iguanas, and birds such as the bobo bird or the emerald tucancillo. A bubbling white-water flow comes out from among the green forest, and the 120-foot tall La Cangreja Waterfall forms a transparent pool of blue water at its base. Copper minerals coming from the volcano dissolve in the water, giving the water a heavenly blue color. We'll enjoy a picnic lunch at the waterfall before returning along the scenic trail.

    Afterward we'll hike to view Las Pailas (The Cauldrons) of Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a spectacular show off the awesome power of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Hiking through pristine dry tropical forest, we'll be in the company of spider monkeys, armadillos, and iguanas.

    In the afternoon we'll head back to Hacienda Guachipelin and receive a dose of adrenaline on our zip line tour. Flying through the trees on cables, rappel, rock climb, swing like Tarzan, and cross hanging bridges over the White River Canyon below. 
    Accommodation: Hacienda Guachipelin
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    La Cangreja Waterfall Hike: 5.9 miles (9.5 kilometres), 1-2 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,076 feet (328 metres) ascent, 1,076 feet (328 metres) descent

    Las Pailas Hike: 2.5 miles (3.5 kilometres), 1-2 hours

  • Day 7

    Las Chorreras Waterfall and Nosara Beach

    #110316

    Our morning hike takes us to Las Chorreras Waterfall, a beautiful place where we can relax in nature and swim in a pool formed by a tropical waterfall. A small canyon of volcanic rock surrounds the falls and the pool, creating an intimate and private tropical oasis for a refreshing dip.

    In the afternoon we’ll drive to Nosara Beach, known for its lush beaches, Nosara is a popular destination among surfers, yogis, families and nature lovers. It is a place of tranquility, natural beauty, consistent waves all year long. Take the afternoon to explore and relax before we gather for dinner tonight. 
    Accommodation: Lagarta Lodge
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 1.8 miles (3 kilometres), 1 hour

     

  • Day 8

    Mountain Bike Adventure

    #110317

    After breakfast we embark on a one-of-a-kind Costa Rican adventure, spending the morning away from the crowds on mountain bikes. The ride today will provide excellent views of the cliffs above the beach, while also giving us time to stop and enjoy the lush jungle around us.

    After lunch we'll head back to Nosara Beach for surfing lessons. With over 40 years of providing lessons and one of the world’s most consistent beach breaks, everyone from beginners to advanced surfers will enjoy this unique opportunity to get out into the water. 
    Accommodation: Lagarta Lodge 
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Biking: miles ( kilometres), hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss:
      feet ( metres) ascent, feet ( metres) descent

  • Day 9

    Return to San Jose

    #110318

    This morning we'll transfer back to San Jose in time for afternoon flight departures, or you can choose to stay on in Nosara and explore more of Costa Rica!
    Accommodation: Not applicable
    Meals:
    Breakfast

Ultimate Costa Rica Adventure Departure Dates

Active Adventures

This trip is operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

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Included

  • 8 nights’ accommodation
  • 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Our own highly experienced trip leader, with you from start to finish
  • Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Account’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • Delicious snacks to keep you fuelled
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern and comfortable!
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Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance - you can find details here

*Terms and conditions apply - read more here

Useful Info

Where does the trip start

On the first day of the trip we'll meet you at Park Inn by Radisson at 6pm. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in San Jose, though you must make your own way to Park Inn by Radisson at the pre-designated time.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the San Jose Mineta International Airport in time for flights below or anywhere in Central San Jose around 2:30pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in San Jose at least the day before your trip starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from San Jose after 4pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You'll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

What are the accommodations we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel – it’s not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Costa Rica. We prefer to stay in unique and comfortable hotels, with history and balance between infrastructure and nature.

Our selection of hotels is a piece of paradise in Costa Rica, brought alive by vibrant art, sculpture, attentive design, green thumbed gardeners and the local community that surrounds them. From The Rios Lodge situated beside the beautiful Pacuare River, in the middle of the rainforest, to Lagarta Lodge, an elegant boutique hotel with expansive sandy beaches, its own private nature reserve with magnificent mangrove trees and lush woods along the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica.

You'll experience the tradition of the past by staying in one of the oldest haciendas in Central America, Hacienda Guachipelin, founded in 1880 now set to the delight its guests with warmth, harmony and a lot of adventure for everyone.

While there are laundry facilities at all locations, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry a one time during your trip. The best time will be during your stay in Hacienda Guachipelin.

 

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 120 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement.

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness. While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise. With a little preparation before your trip begins, you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

Is tipping expected in Costa Rica?

Most people do choose to tip their Active Adventures guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide. You are welcome to tip an equivalent amount in the local currency. There are plenty of ATM’s and banks in the larger towns of Costa Rica. During your Active Adventures trip, your guides will take care of all included restaurants and service tips for you. For other restaurants or services during your time in Costa Rica, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.

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