Costa Rica: Wildlife, National Parks & Hidden Gems of the Northwest

Beloved by all travellers, Costa Rica is a small but mighty gem — and this 14-day adventure from San José to Playa Flamingo shows you why. You'll hit the highlights while veering off the beaten path to uncover local favourites. Soar through the jungle canopy of Monteverde, feel the spray of a waterfall in Manuel Antonio National Park, and marvel at the electric blue waters of Rio Celeste. With visits to three national parks, the gorgeous beaches of Guanacaste, and peaceful rainforest retreats, this trip strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Costa Rica like never before!

Day 1: San José
Arrive at any time.
Day 2: San José/La Fortuna
Drive to Sarapiquí to visit the G Adventures-supported Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation. Learn about the impact this project has had on the community and sample some of the products they sell. Continue on to the Arenal region and take advantage of a free afternoon and a full free day tomorrow to experience the adventure activities and natural wonders of the area.
Day 3: La Fortuna
Free day in La Fortuna. Experience the outdoor adventures, amazing wildlife and natural wonders in this area. There are enough activities here to keep you busy all day long. In the evening opt to soak in one of the many hot springs in the area to cap off an adventurous day.
Day 4: La Fortuna/Monteverde
Travel by van and boat through the stunning Costa Rican scenery up into the cloud forest. Take an included guided night walk to learn about nocturnal life in the jungle firsthand.
Day 5: Monteverde
Enjoy a free day to explore the cloud forest region of Costa Rica. Opt to fly across canopy ziplines, walk across suspended bridges through the forest canopy, or go horseback riding in the hills.
Day 6: Monteverde/Quepos
Travel to Quepos, just outside Manuel Antonio National Park. Opt to visit the park or relax on the beach in this fun surf town. Enjoy a night out and perhaps learn how to dance salsa.
Day 7: Quepos
Enjoy an included entrance into Manuel Antonio National Park. Then, take advantage of free time to explore. Opt to sail or swim in the Pacific. Or choose to kayak through mangroves and relax on the beach.
Day 8: Quepos/San José
Opt to chill at the beach in the morning before the journey by private vehicle back to the capital.
Day 9: San José to Rincón de la Vieja
After an early departure from San Jose, the group will travel to the famed ethereal blue waters of Rio Celeste. Set off on a CEO-led walk through the area with views of the river along the route before an included lunch. Continue onwards to the Rincon de la Vieja area where you will have dinner at the lodge restaurant before a night walk on the nearby trails.
Day 10: Rincón de la Vieja National Park Area
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before transferring to Rincón de la Vieja National Park where you will embark on a hike in the area to gain a full sense of the tropical and volcanic landscape, while searching for resident wildlife. Travel back to the hotel in the afternoon for free time on the property. Activity options range from ziplining, hiking in the area, and various cultural experiences.
Day 11: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park Area
Enjoy a full free day in the Rincon de la Vieja area with an abundance of optional activities to choose from. Between hiking, bird watching, or spa treatments and a soak in the hot springs, your day can be as leisurely or busy as you’d like.
Day 12: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park Area to Playa Flamingo
After breakfast at the lodge the group will travel to Playa Flamingo on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast. Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk upon arrival to get to know this uniquely set up town, whose central area has remained a pristine beach protected by a large mangrove forest. Then, spend a free evening exploring on your own.
Day 13: Playa Flamingo
Spend a full free day in paradise. Opt to prebook a Catamaran excursion to get out onto the water for a whole new view of the Playa Flamingo area. Or choose to enjoy the beach on your own with swimming and sunbathing.
Day 14: Playa Flamingo
Depart at any time.