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- Destination: Costa Rica, Mexico
- Duration: 9 Days
- Tour Type: Group Tour
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Beginning in San Jose and concluding in Cancun, this journey showcases Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural wonders alongside Mexico’s most significant cultural landmarks. Glide along the waterways of Tortuguero National Park, unwind during an evening at the Tabacon hot springs, and hike around the lush surroundings of Arenal Volcano while observing diverse wildlife. In Mexico, visit the picturesque town of Valladolid to experience local Mayan hospitality, and explore iconic Mayan archaeological sites including Coba, Uxmal, and Chichen Itza.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 5
Costa Rica
San Jose: Arrival
Tortuguero National Park
Arenal Volcano National Park
6 - 9
Mexico
Coba: Great Pyramid of Nohoch Mul
Valladolid: Cathedral of Saint Bernardino
Uxmal: Pyramid of the Magician
Chichen Itza: Pyramid of Kukulcan
Cancun: Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in San José – Welcome to Costa Rica
Kick off your 9-day adventure from San José, a journey that blends Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural landscapes with the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Maya, ending in Cancun.
Upon landing at San José International Airport, a friendly local representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in and relaxation after your flight.
- San José
- Day 2: San José – Journey to Tortuguero
Leave San José early in the morning and head toward Tortuguero National Park. Upon reaching the park entrance, board a short 5-minute boat transfer to Evergreen Lodge for check-in. Nestled among lush greenery and towering trees, this lodge provides the perfect base to explore the enchanting and unique landscapes of Tortuguero.
After settling in, enjoy a hearty lunch at the lodge before taking a guided visit to the nearby village of Tortuguero. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight rest.
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- Tortuguero National Park
- Day 3: Tortuguero – Exploring the National Park Canals
Tortuguero National Park, created to safeguard the Western Hemisphere’s most significant green turtle nesting site, spans 190 square kilometers and features 11 distinct ecosystems, ranging from palm-filled rainforests to expansive marshlands. This morning, embark on a boat tour through the park’s canals, immersing yourself in its rich and diverse natural environment.
Return to the lodge for a relaxing lunch, then enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. You can unwind at the lodge or explore the surrounding trails at your own pace.
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- Tortuguero National Park
- Day 4: Tortuguero – Arenal and Tabacón Hot Springs
Following breakfast at the lodge, travel onward to Arenal Volcano National Park. Surrounded by lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls, an active volcano, and Costa Rica’s largest lake, Arenal has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the country’s top travel destinations.
Upon arrival and hotel check-in, head out for an evening of pure relaxation at Tabacón, Arenal’s most renowned hot springs. With over 30 natural pools heated between 38°C and 43°C, you are guaranteed a rejuvenating experience. Conclude the evening with a delicious buffet dinner.
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- Arenal Vocanal
- Day 5: Arenal – San José, Trek through Arenal Volcano National Park
Set out towards Arenal Volcano for an invigorating hike along the popular Las Coladas trail. This path leads you through dense rainforest and across the lava fields created during the 1992 eruption, offering an up-close encounter with the volcano. During the approximately one-hour trek, keep an eye out for the rich variety of wildlife and plant species that inhabit the park. The hike concludes at a lookout point where, weather permitting, you may witness the distant flow of molten lava.
After completing the hike, enjoy a scenic transfer back to San José for your overnight stay.
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- San José
- Day 6: San José – Cancun Arrival
Spend the morning at your own pace before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Cancun, Mexico’s lively beach destination. Upon landing, a private driver will meet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in and the start of your stay.
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- Cancun
- Day 7: Cancun – Merida, Explore Coba & Valladolid
After breakfast, set out to discover the lesser-known Mayan ruins of Coba. This ancient city, built around a series of lakes, was once one of the largest and most populous centers during the Maya civilization. Wander through its overgrown temples hidden in the rainforest, and for the adventurous, climb the towering Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest Mayan structure in the Yucatán Peninsula.
Next, continue to Valladolid, a quaint city known for its warm and welcoming Mayan community. The city retains a vibrant local culture, including traditional pre-Columbian attire, especially in women’s clothing. Explore the Cathedral of Saint Bernardino and other charming colonial-era buildings scattered throughout the town.
By late afternoon, arrive in Merida and check in to your hotel, where you can unwind and relax after a day of exploration.
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- Merida
- Day 8: Merida – Visit the Archaeological Site of Uxmal
Step back in time at Uxmal, an ancient Mayan city that has been largely abandoned for centuries. The site is renowned for its Puuc-style architecture, characterized by low, horizontal palaces arranged around courtyards, adorned with intricate carvings of the long-nosed rain god Chaac. Explore the main structures, including the Pyramid of the Magician, the Nunnery Quadrangle, and the House of Turtles.
Return to Merida in the afternoon and enjoy some free time at your leisure. Take advantage of your hotel’s central location to stroll around the city’s highlights, including Montejo Avenue, Santa Lucia Park, and the main square, soaking in the local culture and charm.
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- Merida
- Day 9: Merida – Cancun via the Archaeological Site of Chichen Itza
After breakfast, depart from Merida to visit Chichen Itza, the most well-preserved Mayan site on the Yucatan Peninsula and recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the impressive ruins set amidst dense jungle, including the Pyramid of Kukulcan, the Great Ball Court, the Cenote of Sacrifice, and several other remarkable temples.
Following the visit, transfer to your hotel in Cancun for a few relaxing days by the beach. We are happy to assist with hotel recommendations and bookings if needed.
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