Costa Rica Explorer

Welcome to San Jose, Costa Rica! A John Hall’s Alaska representative will greet guests after departing Costa Rica customs and transfer to the Gran Hotel Costa Rica, the accommodations for two nights. This historical icon is located is within easy walking distance of the city’s highlights, providing ample exploration opportunities.

Dinner 

Set out this morning on a guided city tour of historic San Jose – founded in 1737 – visiting highlights of the capital and largest city of Costa Rica. Located in the center of the country in the fertile Central Valley and surrounded by volcanos and mountains, San Jose is the economic heart of Costa Rica, with a rich cultural heritage and numerous museums and plazas. Guests will spend the morning learning about its history and culture, with visits to the National Theater and National Museum along the way.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s highlight is a scenic drive into the heart of Costa Rica’s lush lowlands through the breathtaking Braulio Carrillo National Park – a corridor of misty mountains, waterfalls, and dense tropical rainforest. Descending from the mountains to the east, enter picturesque lowlands with fields of bananas and pineapples along the rural countryside, offering a glimpse into daily life in Costa Rica’s Caribbean region. Arriving at the canals of Tortuguero National Park, board a private boat for a short transfer to the riverside retreat of Tortuga Lodge – located on a private nature reserve accessible only by boat or plane, and home for the next two evenings.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up along the banks of the Tortuguero River, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. A wide array of wildlife can be found in the area, including monkeys, sloths, caimans, manatees and over 300 bird species. Become immersed in the natural beauty of the area today while participating in a variety of included activities such as a guided boat tour, kayaking, hiking, visit a nearby village for a cultural experience, or explore the Sea Turtle Conservancy Center.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day with a tranquil boat ride returning to the mainland before boarding a private bus for the journey across Costa Rica’s countryside. Travel past small villages and through rolling hills, taking in the country’s natural charm before arriving at Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, nestled at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano. With views of the volcano from each private bungalow and access to the resort’s private thermal hot spring pools, a relaxing evening lies ahead.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Arenal region, centered around the town of La Fortuna, reflects Costa Rica’s warm, community-oriented culture, where hospitality and connection to nature are central to everyday life. Experience life in this community beginning with a visit to the elementary school for a cultural presentation and folkloric dance show, followed by a short cooking lesson and lunch in a private home. Later, learn about the coffee and chocolate production processes that are so important to the community. From bean to cup, and cacao bean to chocolate bar, it’s sure to be a tasty experience! Return to the resort to unwind in the natural springs after a busy day.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arenal Volcano National Park is a crown jewel of Costa Rica’s protected lands. On a guided tour, explore the area around Arenal Volcano, once one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Today, the park is a playground for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers. Featuring a dramatic mix of lava fields and lush rainforest, the area is one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse zones. Be on the lookout for Howler and white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths and over 500 species of birds, including toucans and parrots. Bid farewell to Arenal and continue the journey to Tenorio Volcano National Park. Spend two evenings in a private casita at located within an 80-acre nature reserve.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The ethereal turquoise water of the Rio Celeste river and the raw power of Tenorio Volcano will captivate guests today during a guided adventure into Tenorio Volcano National Park. Teeming with exotic wildlife such as tapir, monkeys and pumas, and stunning landscapes of dense tropical forests, sky-blue rivers, dramatic waterfalls and hot thermal springs, it truly is a majestic place. Return to the resort for a restful afternoon and take advantage of exclusive Rio Celeste swimming access and the El Tapir Preserve Trails.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Bid farewell to the lush Costa Rican rainforests and descend from the misty highlands before joining the Pan-American Highway – the longest drivable roadway in the world consisting of a collection of 19,000 miles of road from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska to Ushuaia, Argentina. Take in the expansive views of sugarcane fields and volcanic plains before reaching the golden sands of the Pacific Coast, where two nights will be spent at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The swaying palm trees and gentle rhythm of the waves from the resort’s exclusive beach provide the perfect background for embracing the Costa Rican “pura vida” way of life and a final day of leisure. The day is free for relaxing or exploring the area. Experience a stunning view as the sun sets over the ocean this evening and enjoy one last evening spent with travel companions in paradise.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy breakfast at the beachside hotel before transferring to the Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport in the city of Liberia in the Guanacaste Province for a flight home.

Breakfast