- 4.9/5 403 Latest reviews
- Destination: Costa Rica
- Duration: 6 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Nature
About This Trip
With visits to the key attractions of Arenal Volcano and Monteverde, this itinerary is ideal for getting a close encounter with nature. In the Arenal region, beyond exploring the trails and rainforest of Arenal Volcano National Park, you can also join activities on local farms and coffee plantations. In the mountainous Monteverde area, you’ll experience a guided tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a favorite among travelers for its unique cloud forest ecosystem and diverse wildlife, making it a must-see destination.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1
San José
Arrival and Enjoy Some Leisure Time
2
San José - Arenal Volcano
Costa Rican Coffee Plantation
3
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano National Park: Hanging Brides, Lush Forest, Waterfalls, Wildlife
4
Arenal Volcano - Monteverde
Boat Cruise on the Emerald Arenal Lake, Monteverde Cloud Forest
5
Monteverde
Optional to Visit the Selvatura Park
6
San José
Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in San José
Welcome to Costa Rica!
Once you’ve cleared customs, our representative will meet you at the airport and escort you on a private transfer to your hotel in downtown San José. During the drive, enjoy a brief introduction to the country along with helpful travel tips for your journey ahead.
After settling into your hotel, you may wish to explore the nearby area and dine at Hotel Grano de Oro’s restaurant, renowned as one of the city’s top culinary spots.
- San José
- Day 2: San José to Arenal Volcano – Coffee Plantation & Iguana Bridge
After breakfast, meet your driver and begin your journey toward the Arenal Volcano region. Along the way, stop at an authentic Costa Rican coffee plantation to learn about the cultivation and production process of this famous local crop. Next, make a short detour to Iguana Bridge, where you can observe iguanas basking and climbing in the surrounding trees.
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica’s most active volcano, is surrounded by lush rainforests and thermal rivers. The area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including parrots, toucans, sloths, monkeys, and peccaries. Arrive in the Arenal region in the late afternoon and check into your hotel, offering stunning views of the volcanic cone for an unforgettable stay.
- B , L
- Arenal Vocanal
- Day 3: Arenal Volcano National Park – Hanging Bridges & Organic Farm Experience
This morning, explore the lush rainforest of Arenal Volcano National Park along its well-marked trails and mystical hanging bridges. Immerse yourself in the vibrant greenery and enjoy the incredible biodiversity of the region. With the keen guidance of your expert guide, you may even spot some rare or elusive wildlife during the walk.
Later, visit Vida Campesina, an organic farm, for a guided tour where you can take part in hands-on activities such as milking cows, making tortillas, pressing sugar cane, drawing water from a traditional well, and more. You will also have the chance to contribute to environmental preservation by planting an endangered tree and enjoy a traditional farm-to-table lunch prepared over a wood-fired stove.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the town at your own pace, visit crystal-clear rivers, or relax in one of the many hot springs around Arenal Volcano. For those who enjoy cycling, bikes are available to ride through nearby villages and scenic areas surrounding La Fortuna.
- B , L
- Arenal Vocanal
- Day 4: Arenal Volcano to Monteverde – Lake Arenal & Cloud Forest Adventure
Begin your day with a scenic boat ride across the emerald waters of Lake Arenal. Along the way, take in breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding mountain landscapes, a perfect photo opportunity.
Once you reach the far side of the lake, meet your driver for a transfer to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters, this lush rainforest is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife and plant species, including over 100 mammals, 400 bird species, tens of thousands of insects, and more than 2,500 types of plants. Monteverde is especially famous for its hummingbirds, making it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where your knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the unique ecosystem and its rich biodiversity.
- B
- Monteverde
- Day 5: Monteverde – Free Day to Explore
Today is a free day for you to enjoy at your own pace. If you love adventure, a visit to Selvatura Park comes highly recommended for its thrilling experiences and stunning natural surroundings.
There are plenty of optional activities to enhance your stay, including canopy ziplining, treetop walking on hanging bridges, and other exciting outdoor adventures, giving you the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.
- B
- Monteverde
- Day 6: Monteverde – Transfer to San José & Departure
After breakfast, meet your driver for a private transfer to San José International Airport.
For convenience, it is recommended to schedule an afternoon flight, as the drive from Monteverde to the airport takes approximately three hours.
- B
Quick Question
CONTACT A TRAVEL EXPERT
1-to-1 Service | Reply within 24hrs | Expert's Advice
