Cano Negro | La Fortuna (Costa Rica) | Quepos (Costa Rica) | San Jose (Costa Rica) | Tortuguero (Costa Rica)
The following are Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Arenal & Manuel Antonio tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Feel the warm air hit your face as you step out of the plane in Costa Rica. Fall into the pace of the traffic and beeping car horns as you take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant Central American country en route to the city centre. We welcome you to San Jose, and while technically not quite in the jungle just yet, we invite you to embrace all of the new and exciting things that await.
Arrive to Costa Rica at any time and transfer to the hotel. Meet your fellow group members at the welcome meeting in the evening and get all the important information about the adventure ahead. Afterwards, head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious welcome dinner with new friends.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
See the landscape dramatically change as you head out of the city and through the lush Braulio Carrillo National Park en route to the coast. Before long you'll be gliding through the canals of Tortuguero in a kayak, keeping a lookout for tropical birds, reptiles and monkeys that call this place home. Settle into the comfortable lodge for the night and fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle.
Travel by minibus and boat from San Jose to Tortuguero National Park. After lunch, take the first of 2 kayaking excursions to the nearby canals to spot wildlife.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sit back and relax as you travel by boat from La Pavona to the lodge in Tortuguero.
Spend a free evening relaxing before dinner at the lodge. Enjoy the various amenities on the property.
Grab a paddle and prepare to witness a parade of tropical birds, reptiles, and mammals as you kayak through the black water canals of Tortuguero. Scan the trees for toucans, watch the shores for caimans, otters, iguanas, frogs, and look up to see monkeys sharing space with sloths. Bring your binoculars and bug spray. Be prepared for hot, humid, and possibly wet weather.
Wake early and prepare for more exploration of Tortuguero's waterways to spot wildlife. Catch the light glinting off of a Morpho butterfly's blazing blue wings as you paddle along the canals and listen to the calls of the forest. In the evening, you could take an excursion to visit the nesting grounds of green and leatherback turtles for which the national park was named, and perhaps spot the females laying eggs on the beach (seasonal, July to October).
Take an optional morning boat safari to spot wildlife at dawn when things are most active. After breakfast head out again by kayak to explore some of the secondary canals and waterways. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to visit the nearby town or to relax by the pool.
The afternoon is free for optional activities in the area or to take advantage of the amenities at the lodge. Later in the evening opt to visit a turtle nesting ground (seasonal, July to October).
Hop back into a kayak and set off onto the calm morning waters to explore some secondary canals and waterways in the national park. Try to spot wildlife like, tropical birds, reptiles, and mammals as the sun warms the day. Keep watch for toucans, monkeys and sloths in the canopy above you as you glide through the water.
Leaving the coast behind, we'll head inland with a stop at a G Adventures-supported coffee cooperative along the way. Learn all about how coffee is harvested and produced as you sip a delicious cup of one of Costa Rica's most tasty indulgences. Stretch your legs and soak in the scenery on a walk to a nearby waterfall before a typical lunch and then continue onwards towards Cano Negro, one of the most dynamic and biodiverse ecosystems in Costa Rica.
Travel by boat and bus from Tortuguero to Cano Negro with a stop en route at a coffee cooperative. Arrive to Cano Negro in the evening and enjoy an included dinner with the group.
Climb aboard and get your float on.
Enjoy the scenery on the drive from Tortuguero to Cano Negro with a stop along the way to Mi Cafecito.
Find out where your cup of java comes from. Visit the Mi Cafecito coffee cooperative in San Miguel de Sarapiqui, see shade-grown coffee plants, learn about everything from harvesting, to husking, drying, and roasting the beans before enjoying the best part - a fresh cup! Before lunch set out on a short hike short hike near Mi Cafecito to a waterfall. Enjoy a typical lunch of plantains, beans, and freshly caught tilapia fish. Feel good about all this eating and drinking knowing that you are supporting a G Adventures for Good project that helps 200 farmers and their families.
Discover the rich biodiversity and cultural traditions of Cano Negro today. Cruise along the Rio Frio and through the Cano Negro Wetlands in search of wildlife, then visit a local island community to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch and learn about the region's heritage. This evening, delve into the culinary traditions of the Maleku people during an interactive gastronomic demonstration, followed by a tasting dinner featuring the flavours of northern Costa Rica.
Visit the Cano Negro Wetlands on a wildlife-viewing boat excursion, followed by lunch and a cultural visit with a local community. In the evening, learn about Maleku culinary traditions during a gastronomic demonstration and tasting dinner.
Set out by boat from the private dock of Hacienda Cano Negro and explore the peaceful waterways of the Rio Frio and Cano Los Patos. As you glide through this rich wetland ecosystem, keep an eye out for the incredible wildlife that calls the region home, including caimans, crocodiles, monkeys, sloths, turtles, iguanas, and a remarkable variety of resident and migratory bird species. Continue to the Cano Negro Wetlands, one of Central America's most important wildlife refuges and biodiversity hotspots. From the observation tower, take in sweeping views of the wetlands while learning about the ecological significance of this unique and thriving ecosystem.
Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch on a small island community in the heart of Cano Negro. Prepared by local families using recipes passed down through generations, the meal offers a delicious introduction to the region's culinary heritage. Following lunch, connect with community members as they share stories about the history, traditions, and daily life of Cano Negro. Round out the experience with a visit to a local butterfly garden and a traditional crafts workshop, providing a deeper understanding of the culture and way of life that have shaped this unique corner of Costa Rica.
Enjoy dinner featuring flavours inspired by the traditions of the Maleku, one of northern Costa Rica's Indigenous communities. The meal highlights local ingredients and culinary influences that have shaped the region's food culture.
Set out for Volcan Tenorio National Park and hike through lush rainforest trails to the stunning turquoise waters of Rio Celeste Waterfall. Continue to Maleku territory to connect with the local community and enjoy a traditional lunch before ending the day in La Fortuna, near the base of Arenal Volcano.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
North of Lake Arenal lies another spectacular protected area called Volcan Tenorio National Park. We'll set off on foot from the main entrance and hike along jungle trails and down a series of stairways to the brilliantly blue Rio Celeste Waterfall. Take in the scenery and watch for wildlife like monkeys and birds in the canopy above before hiking out on the same trail.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Learn about the Maleku community, Costa Rica's smallest Indigenous group with a population of approximately 650 people, and discover their history, traditions, and cultural connection to cacao before enjoying a traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients and recipes.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Today is all about you. Fly through the lush forest canopy on a series of zip-lines and platforms or hanging bridges, walking along and trying to spot wildlife. Whichever option you choose, your muscles will appreciate a soak in the restorative thermal springs and waterfalls of Eco Termales Resort, a luxurious and relaxing way to spend the evening.
Option 1: Soar through the lush jungle forest on ziplines and enjoy the views from the canopy. Option 2: Walk along Hanging Bridges and try to spot wildlife from the canopy. Both excursions begin and end at the hotel in La Fortuna.
Enjoy free time at the hotel in La Fortuna. Relax or find some hot springs to soak in and let the day pass luxuriously.
Indulge yourself and soak those weary muscles in Costa Rica's largest network of naturally flowing thermal springs surrounded by beautiful gardens. Move from pool to pool of varying temperatures and with cascading waterfalls and get revitalized with the mineral water, naturally heated by the Arenal Volcano. Enjoy a delicious dinner before returning to the hotel.
With the Arenal Volcano in the rearview mirror, head south through Costa Rica's lush interior to the Pacific coast and to the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park. Take in the sweeping views as you catch glimpses of the ocean through the rainforest canopy. The afternoon is yours to head to the beach or relax by the hotel pool.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Take advantage of a free afternoon to head to the beach or book an optional activity like a surf class or go kayaking.
Manuel Antonio National Park is a bold representation of the natural diversity that Costa Rica has on full display. Walk through the lush coastal rainforest on the lookout for monkeys, birds and sloths and take in the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean as you stroll along the impossibly picturesque beach. Share stories and memories over a meal with your fellow travellers in the evening as the sun dips below the horizon.
Set off with a local guide on a visit of Manuel Antonio National Park. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon before a farewell dinner in the evening.
Pack your sunscreen, camera, hiking shoes and bug repellent and prepare for a great day in Costa Rica's smallest yet biodiverse national park. Manual Antonio offers four white sand beaches, separated by jagged rock outcrops and tidal pools. Head to the shade of the nearby tropical forest in search of sloths, monkeys, armadillos and iguanas. Climb to the lookout to capture views of the pristine Pacific Ocean and the area's off-shore islands. Learn how the wildlife has adapted to their environment and enjoy your exotic experience.
Spend some extra time exploring the park or head to the beach to relax and take a swim.
Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in Costa Rica will live on. Transportation will be provided to the San Jose airport, where the tour ends upon arrival.
Two shuttles will be provided, one early departure, arriving to the airport around midday and another arriving in the early afternoon. Outbound flights from San Jose (SJO) should depart no earlier than 3pm.
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Arenal & Manuel Antonio tour:
Max 16, avg 12
Your G for Good Moment: Mi Cafecito Coffee Tour, SarapiquiYour Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and GroupYour OMG Day: Ziplining or Mistico Hanging Bridges, La FortunaYour Wellness Moment: Eco Termales Hot Springs Resort and Dinner, La Fortuna. Complimentary arrival transfer. Welcome dinner. 2 days of kayaking in Tortuguero National Park. Walk to a waterfall in San Miguel de Sarapiqui. Day pass at Tabacon Hot Spring Resort. Hanging bridges excursion to spot wildlife from La Fortuna. Hike to the Rio Celeste Waterfall in Volcan Tenorio National Park. Guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. Farewell dinner. Departure transfer. All tips included for activities and meals, except for CEO and porterage. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Spot tropical birds and monkeys while kayaking Tortuguero's canals, Soar above the canopy on zip-lines or cross hanging bridges to spot wildlife, Soak in the restorative thermal springs at Tabacon Resort, Hike to the striking blue waters of a waterfall in Volcan Tenorio National Park, Search for monkeys and sloths on a walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, Spend free time relaxing on the beach at Manuel Antonio
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Tortuguero National Park- Tortuguero National Park Guided Boat Tour (75USD per person)- Turtle Nesting Night Excursion (Seasonal) (51USD per person)Manuel Antonio National Park- Kayaking (70USD per person)- Surfing (55-75USD per person)
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (7 nts), Jungle Lodge (2 nts).
9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is affordable. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private vehicle, kayak, boat, walking.
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Costa Rica Water Activities:o Drybag (Will help keep cameras and essentials dry)o Sport Sandals or Water Shoes (if you plan to do waterfall rappelling and/or rafting)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying and handling your own luggage.
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.
On the Geluxe Collection tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals. Tipping is not included for the CEO or Porterage. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $8-10 USD per person, per day can be used.For meals and activities not included in your itinerary, it is appropriate in Latin America to tip 10%. Though not compulsory, tipping is expected. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels and shows an expression of satisfaction.