Experience Overview
Embark on thrilling adventure through Costa Rica’s rainforests, volcanoes and beaches, where wildlife waits around every corner. This nine-day Premium journey will see you uncover the local secrets of San Jose, explore the wild wetlands of Cano Negro, witness the biodiversity of Monteverde and search for sloths in Manuel Antonio. A local leader will take you beneath Costa Rica’s lush surface and show you the country at its very best. Costa Rica’s natural wonders have etched it a place on the map, but you’ll soon discover its cherished traditions and welcoming people are every bit as endearing.
Highlights
- Visit a project focused on promoting sustainable agricultural practices while preserving ancient traditions. During this Exclusive Experience, tour the farm to learn about their processes and sit down to a farm-fresh lunch.
- Gain an understanding of Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity and history as you travel with an experienced local leader and explore with expert guides in La Fortuna, the Cano Negro Wetlands and Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Spend a night on a scenic hilltop at your Feature Stay, offering incredible views of the ocean and jungle terraces. Just a five minute walk from the beach, it is the perfect base for exploring Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Board a raft and explore the wild Cano Negro Wetlands with a naturalist guide – this Exclusive Experience will get you up close and personal with monkeys, iguanas, caimans, bats and lizards in their natural environment.
- Get beneath the surface of San Jose with a city tour to uncover the best of this underrated city, with a stop for tradition cajeta ice cream.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2423
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: QBPR
Starts: San Jose, Costa Rica
Finishes: San Jose, Costa Rica
Duration: 9 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (8), Lunch (3), Dinner (4)Accommodation: Comfortable hotel (6 nights),Feature Stay (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 5145 (CAD 572 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Costa Rica. Your adventure begins in San Jose, where you’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Here, you’ll meet your local leader and small group for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, Costa Rican coffee is some of the best in the world, so maybe set out to sample some of the local brew. After your meeting, head out with your leader and fellow travellers to dine like a local in the heart of San Jose. Your leader will share the history of the area and its famous residents as you taste local specialties.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- San Jose - Welcome Dinner
Accommodation:
- Gran Hotel Costa Rica or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart San Jose and drive to La Fortuna, known for its mellow atmosphere, bubbling hot springs and the mighty Arenal volcano. When you arrive, visit the Arenal Vida Campesina – a project focused on promoting sustainable agricultural practices while preserving customs and traditions passed down from generation to generation. Tour the property, learn about the process of sugarcane milling then sit down for a farm-fresh lunch. After lunch, visit the Arenal 1968 trails for a gentle walk to the Las Coladas lava field. Along the way, your leader will share the history of the volcano as you look out for howler monkeys, deer and parrots. In the afternoon, check into your hotel which has views of the Arenal Volcano and rooms with a terrace surrounded by tropical gardens filled with birds and butterflies. Spend some time poolside, listening to the songs of birds, then join your group for dinner at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
- La Fortuna - Arenal Volcano Base Hike
- Arenal Vida Campesina - Sustainable Farm Tour with lunch
Accommodation:
- Lomas del Volcan or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today will be spent exploring the diverse wildlife of the Cano Negro Wetlands with a naturalist guide. Start with a drive through fields of yucca, plantain and papaya before boarding a comfortable raft to explore the Frio River. Travelling this way allows you get up close and personal with this region’s wildlife without having to undertake a strenuous hike. If you’re lucky, you might spot monkeys, iguanas, caimans, bats and common basilisks, also known as Jesus Christ lizards for their ability to walk on water. Your expert guide will be on hand to tell you where to look and share information on the intriguing creatures you discover today. Have lunch at a local restaurant before returning to La Fortuna for a free evening. Maybe visit one of the town’s hot springs for a swim beneath the stars.
Included Activities:
- La Fortuna- Caño Negro boat tour
Accommodation:
- Lomas del Volcan or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, depart La Fortuna and begin the journey to Monteverde. Drive around Lake Arenal and watch dramatic views of the Arenal volcano unfold in front of you. Your leader will be on hand to point out interesting wildlife along the way. Arrive in Monteverde in the early afternoon. Known for its spectacular cloud forests and rich biodiversity, Monteverde is heaven for nature lovers. This afternoon, you may like to explore the town, or view the cloud forest from overhead on a zipline. Speak to your leader about arranging any optional activities that you’d like.
Accommodation:
- Burbi Lake Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin the day with a tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, host to more than 100 different species of mammals and 400 species of birds. Your leader will share information on the fascinating biodiversity of the region and lend their expert eye to spotting wonderful wildlife. Look out for the resplendent quetzal and listen for the sounds of howler monkeys and the unmistakeable call of the three-wattled bellbird. With nearly 500 unique species of orchids, the reserve holds the world’s highest diversity of the flower. After a morning with your head in the clouds, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy your way.
Included Activities:
- Monteverde - Cloud Forest
Optional Activities:
- Monteverde - Canopy Zip Lining (Entrance, Equipment & Transport) (65 USD)
Accommodation:
- Burbi Lake Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, depart for Manuel Antonio – home to a wildlife-rich national park and a string of the country’s best beaches. When you arrive, check into your Feature Stay – a beautiful resort situated above the ocean and Manuel Antonio National Park. After a dip in one of the resort pools or a walk along the beach, you might like to join your group for dinner at one of the hotel restaurants.
Accommodation:
- Shana by the Beach Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning you’ll set off into Manuel Antonio National Park with an expert naturalist guide by your side. Look out for two and three toed sloths, white faced monkeys, anteaters and iguanas. The park offers criss-crossing walking trails and a beach – just keep an eye out for the raccoons! The afternoon is free. Manuel Antonio has plenty for those seeking an adrenaline rush – speak to your leader about arranging ziplining, snorkelling or kayaking. On the other end of the spectrum, there are few better places to sit back, crack open a coconut and watch the waves lap the shore. Be sure to look up, as sloths and monkeys are known to frequent the trees that line the beach.
Included Activities:
- Manuel Antonio - National Park tour with a naturalist guide
Optional Activities:
- Manuel Antonio - Boogie board rental (69 USD)
- Manuel Antonio – Cruise (100 USD)
Accommodation:
- Shana by the Beach Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Manuel Antonio to head back to San Jose. When you arrive, have some lunch, then go on a city tour with your leader of downtown San Jose. Explore the mixture of historic and contemporary with stops at the local museums, government buildings, theatres, parks and markets. Visit the central market for a traditional Costa Rican cajeta (ice cream), an essential part of family lunch or dinner. There are lots of varieties to choose from, from coconut, peanut and macadamia and tapa de dulce (a form of cooked sugar cane). Tonight, you’ll have a farewell dinner with your group so raise a glass and cheers to an excellent adventure!
Included Activities:
- San Jose - Farewell Dinner
- San Jose - City tour
Accommodation:
- Gran Hotel Costa Rica or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you would like to stay in San Jose, just speak to your booking agent to arrange additional accommodation ahead of time.
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Barbara - Traveled, March 2024
We had a great trip, thanks to the highly enjoyable company of our fellow travellers, rather than Intrepid itself. While some of the accommodation was fantastic, once again Intrepid let itself down by including an entirely unsuitable "lodge" - a remote location without any restaurant or bar simply does not work!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2024
Celes - Traveled, March 2024
Without a doubt, this trip has been heart-warming, eye-opening, and a great learning adventure. A great mix of natural areas, stories, experiences, culture, food and music were all part of the mix. Our guide skilfully wove these elements together. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2024
Susan - Traveled, March 2024
Premium Costa Rica was worth the extra money. More meals, nice accommodations. We were fortunate to have a great team, Liza V as our tour guide, and Cheppe as our driver. We loved learning about Costa Rica and were not disappointed in the variety and quantity of wildlife that we saw. Plus, the country is beautiful. Worth it!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Zakiya - Traveled, March 2024
What a phenomenal trip! Liza was an amazing tour guide, so helpful and so knowledgeable. I learned so much more than I ever expected and had fun at the same time. Our group was lucky enough to see so much wildlife as well. This was truly a memorable experience. Pura vida!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/02/2024
Fred - Traveled, March 2024
Our tour in Costa Rica interesting and enjoyable end-to-end. Our tour guide was bright, knowledgeable and engaging. She ensured that each individual had the best experience possible without sacrificing the needs of the group. A good experience is only made great through the efforts of an excellent guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2024
John-Luke - Traveled, February 2024
Our tour guide Marvin took us on an amazing adventure, from his own home in the shadow of a volcano and its amazing thermal hotsprings, to the deep cloudforest and all the fun thing that hide their. Without him and all he did for us the trip would have been lesser I'm a way that can't be quantified.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2024
Marisa - Traveled, February 2024
This was trip of a lifetime and exceeded expectations. Such a brilliant introduction to the life and vibe of beautiful Costa Rica. The small van with expert driver could go where no monster buses could enter. Eco friendly, luxury accommodation after wonderful days of animals and walks and national parks a delight. Best guide Marvin and driver Jose.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2024
Hilary - Traveled, December 2023
Good trip but not quite premium. Great activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/14/2023
Michael - Traveled, November 2023
What a wonderful trip we had - our Guide Luz was simply amazing she shared her passion for her country, it's customs and abundant wildlife. This trip took in all the highlights and more - we had a great time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/30/2023
Judith - Traveled, November 2023
Excellent trip showing the best of Costa Rica guide was brilliant
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Lisa - Traveled, October 2023
Fantastic trip and rainy season did little to dampen the experience. Accommodation and private transport was all clean and comfortable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2023
Bruce - Traveled, April 2023
Intrepid Premium Costa Rica is a wonderful means of experiencing the beauty of the country while learning about the flora & fauna, the geography and the environmentally responsible nature of the country itself…all while staying in safe, comfortable accommodations and eating delicious food for every meal.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/10/2023
Janet - Traveled, March 2023
As first time Intrepid travellers we weren’t sure how we would like the small group tour. We were so happy we decided to try it. Costa Rica is a beautiful country with unbelievable scenery and lovely people. But what really made this trip special was our tour guide Leonardo. His passion and knowledge of not only the flora and fauna but the history of his country was so incredibly rich. I came away with such a great appreciation for what this small country has achieved. Leo made sure all of our fellow travellers felt comfortable and I think since we were all like minded we had a great time together. The excursions were fun and again educational. The accommodations were in beautiful settings. What’s not to love? Pack your bags and enjoy!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2023
Michelle - Traveled, March 2023
Wow! Wow! Wow! This is the most amazing trip if you are into nature. We were so lucky to have Leo as our trip leader. He is a world class naturalist and we reveled in listening to his explanations and stories. The entire group was blown away by his knowledge of not only the birds and animals, but also of Costa Rican history and geography and his accurate recall of so many facts and figures. He was also very curious about finding out about the birds and the animals in our home countries which made us feel special. He was patient and kind and flexible and professional. Please give him an Award for being The Best Guide!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2023
Catherine - Traveled, March 2023
I would 100% recommend this tour - a wonderful way to explore Costa Rica. Our guide (Leo) was extremely passionate and knowledgeable about the country and wildlife. The hotels all had amazing views from the balcony, there was a good mix of included and optional activities, the food was really tasty, and we had a really nice group of 8. Everything is well organised and explained clearly along the way - I'd recommend this to anyone who wants to experience the wildlife and different regions of Costa Rica - you'll learn and see a lot :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2023
Julia - Traveled, March 2023
Need a quick trip to Costa Rica that covers the highlights? This is a perfect 7 day excursion that includes the rain and cloud forests, hiking a volcano, the best National Park for a chance to see the sloths, monkeys and tropical birds, and some beach time to end the trip. Lots of time in the van though as the roads in this wonderful country are narrow and hilly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2023
William - Traveled, March 2023
We just returned from our first Intrepid trip. Our expectations were high and I am happy to say they were exceeded on this trip. Excellent tour leader was a great ambassador for his country. Other participants are now considered friends. Would highly recommend an Intrepid trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/10/2023
Hollie - Traveled, February 2023
This trip is a truly spectacular way to dive into Costa Rica - the country, the history, the people, the wildlife, the focus on environmental sustainability. You experience 4 different locations - each a unique window into the country which together provide a broad and in-depth experience. All of the included excursions are fantastic and the breadth of wildlife you see is awe inspiring. Five stars.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/04/2023
Mario - Traveled, December 2022
This is my first Intrepid trip and I can't recommend them enough! The itinerary doesn't even begin to capture how amazing the experience will be. Prepare for memorable surprises and leave astounded by the amazing biodiversity and colorful culture in Costa Rica!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/19/2022
Rachel - Traveled, April 2022
I am very happy I decided to try an intrepid travel trip! I loved not having to worry about any itinerary details, transportation, or accommodations. Our guide was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable and went out of their way to make sure we were all having a great time. The included experiences were amazing. In order to see this much of Costa Rica in a short time, we did have more bus riding than expected, but overall worth it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/14/2022
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