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    Family: Tortuguero, Arenal & beach relax

    Costa Rica in 13 Days, 11 Nights in Destination

    GROUP TOURSSolo TravelerAdventureNatureHoneymoonSummer in AmericaBeach
    Rachel, Travel Expert

    Rachel
    Travel crafter

    Explore the richness of Costa Rica's flora and fauna in three distinctly biodiverse regions. Where memories are made on this trip: enjoying the stunning scenery at a paradisiacal all-inclusive resort on Tamarindo Beach.

    Trip Highlights

    1. map-pin-check-icon
      Arenal
    2. map-pin-check-icon
      San José
    3. map-pin-check-icon
      Tamarindo
    4. map-pin-check-icon
      Tortuguero

    Included

    1. All flights

    2. Accommodation

    3. All transfers

    4. Activities

    5. Some meals

    Availability

    1. Departures available until August 2025

    2. Available Group tours

    3. Solo travelers from + £ 830

    4. Add up to 3 nights to your stay

    5. WHAT'S THIS?

    Categories available

    1. charm included

    2. WHAT'S THIS?

    From

    £ 3,439

    £ 2,399

    /person

    -30%

    Book with an expert:

    +44 20 76 60 34 10

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    Exoticca is fully ABTA and ATOL protected

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    Best Price Guarantee

    SmartFare has secured the lowest fares on flights & services for this trip

    Itinerary

    Discover the contrasts of Costa Rica. Arrive in the picturesque capital, San Jose, where a local guide will show the amazing nature of La Paz Waterfall Gardens. From there, fly to Tortuguero to explore its canals and enjoy its rich biodiversity. Finish with an all-inclusive stay at a resort to relax as a family on the pristine beaches of Tamarindo.

     

    1st Day: UK/Ireland - San Jose

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    Arrive at your UK/Ireland departure airport to board a flight to San Jose*. Land in the capital of Costa Rica and transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay in San Jose.

    *If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Barceló San Jose or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    3040 Reviews

    See our full selection

    2nd Day: San Jose

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, enjoy a family excursion to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Upon arrival, walk along a beautiful trail that leads to the aviary, the largest butterfly observatory in the country, the hummingbird gallery, the serpentarium, and the frog, monkey and feline exhibits. Replenish your energy with a tasty lunch in the middle of the forest and then walk through this tropical rainforest following a paved path, with some steps, to visit the impressive waterfalls formed by the La Paz River. Return to the hotel and overnight in San Jose.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Barceló San Jose or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    3040 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens

    Moderate

    See more

    3rd Day: San Jose - Tortuguero

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    Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, rise early to visit the Tortuguero Village, where you’ll be accommodated in a Full Board hotel!

    You’ll discover an incredible diversity of landscapes. This was once a site for hunting, fishing, and agriculture for various ethnic groups including the Miskitos, the Miskito-Zambo, and the Afro-Caribbean population. 

    During the tour, visit the village school, the National Park, churches, stores, the community center that houses the local symphony, and the recycling plant, which is one of the most efficient in the country! Dinner and overnight stay in Tortuguero.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Laguna Lodge or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    1425 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Tour of Tortuguero Village

    Light

    See more

    4th Day: Tortuguero

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    Full Board. Breakfast at the hotel. Start the day with a 2-hour tour through the National Park's canals. Enjoy the lush biodiversity of plants and animals in this ecosystem, which is the most complex and dynamic in Central America. The tour includes lunch

    You and your family will be accompanied by a naturalist guide and an experienced boatman, who will help you appreciate the park's many animal species. See monkeys, thousands of bird species, hundreds of reptiles and amphibians, such as iguanas, crocodiles, alligators, turtles... and, of course, a great variety of mammals. Dinner and overnight stay in Tortuguero.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Laguna Lodge or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    1425 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Canals of Tortuguero Boat Tour

    Light

    See more

    5th Day: Tortuguero - Arenal

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    Breakfast in the hotel. In the morning, head to Guápiles, one of the most popular cities in Costa Rica, a lush tropical landscape located within the country's banana growing region.

    In addition to jungle adventures, visitors can also try a trip to one of the nearby botanical gardens. From wild colorful orchids to other types of flowers and wildlife native to the region, travelers will be amazed by the number of plants they can witness in one setting!

    In the afternoon, head towards Arenal, where you can join an optional visit to the famous volcano the following day. Arrive, check-in at your hotel, and overnight stay in Arenal.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Lomas del Volcán or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    2474 Reviews

    See our full selection

    6th Day: Arenal

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Set off for a half-day Floating Safari excursion in Arenal. Travel along the Peñas Blancas River with our expert English-speaking safari adventure guides.

    They will help you appreciate the incredible fauna and flora of the region, where you will see the diversity of animals such as sloths, monkeys, toucans, crocodiles, “Jesus Christ” lizards, turtles and even colorful tropical birds! Ready to visit the volcano? Now’s your chance with our optional hike*. Overnight stay in Arenal.

    *Hike to the Arenal Volcano: Enjoy a hiking experience through trails marked with the remains of previous lava flows of the impressive and majestic Arenal Volcano. The main attraction of La Fortuna is the Arenal Volcano with its nearly perfect cone shape and a height of 1633 meters. 

    Along the hike you’ll discover the abundant flora and fauna that inhabit the rainforest under re-generation; your guide will tell you all about the Arenal Volcano’s history and activity. After the hike, you may choose two different options to experience the popular hot springs in the area to relax in the warm waters, heated by the volcano.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Lomas del Volcán or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    2474 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Peñas Blancas River Adventure

    Light

    See more
    Optional
    Guided hike to the Arenal Volcano

    Active

    See more

    7th Day: Arenal

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you’ll go on a Sloth Observation Excursion. La Fortuna is a unique environment and the climate, food, and lack of predators make it a perfect home for sloths.

    Take a 2-hour tour through the Sloth Territory, a small family ecological project just 5 minutes from La Fortuna. The project features a 1-mile trail suitable for adults, families, and children of all ages. Pay attention to the two and three-toed sloths and also Guarumo trees, their favorite food! We also recommend our optional Monteverde Cloud Forest route.* Overnight stay in Arenal.

    *Monteverde Cloud Forest: Explore the rich cloud forests and extensive nature trails of Monteverde Cloud Forest. Observe wildlife ranging from jaguars to butterflies and quetzals as you traverse a number of different trails through 8 different ‘life-zones’ ranging from swamps to cloud forests.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Lomas del Volcán or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    2474 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Sloth Observation Excursion

    Light

    See more
    Optional
    Cloud Forests Excursion

    Moderate

    See more

    8th Day: Arenal - Tamarindo

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    All-inclusive. In the morning, we head to Playa Langosta (Tamarindo) to enjoy this paradisiacal place at an all-inclusive resort. Arrive, check-in, and spend free time in an oasis of peace. Take advantage of the swimming pool to have a good time with your family, or spend time relaxing in the spa! Overnight stay in Tamarindo.

     

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Occidental Tamarindo or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    5411 Reviews

    See our full selection

    9th Day: Tamarindo

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    All-inclusive. Enjoy the incredible resort facilities, the wonderful natural surroundings, and the on-site restaurants full of exquisite dishes. If you wish, you can also participate in our optional boat safari in the Tamarindo Estuary*. Overnight stay in Tamarindo.

    *Optional Boat Safari Tamarindo Estuary: Discover the unique flora and fauna which inhabit the lush mangroves. Look out for noisy howler monkeys, crocodiles and iguanas, whilst appreciating the colorful bird life above. Slowly travel along the channels, so as not to disturb the wildlife, and admire the wonderful natural beauty of the reserve.

     

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Occidental Tamarindo or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    5411 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Boat Safari on Tamarindo Estuary

    Light

    See more

    10th Day: Tamarindo

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    All-inclusive. Today is your last day to enjoy the wonderful white sandy beaches of Tamarindo. You have the entire day free to enjoy with your family in this incredible natural setting and all the activities offered in the resort. Overnight stay in Tamarindo.

     

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Occidental Tamarindo or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    5411 Reviews

    See our full selection

    11th Day: Tamarindo - San Jose

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer back to the capital, to spend your last night in San Jose. We suggest taking a stroll through this beautiful city, visiting the National Theatre of Costa Rica or enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. For a great overview of the city, we recommend an optional city tour of San Jose*. Overnight stay in San Jose.

    *Optional San Jose City Tour: Visit the most prominent sights of the city such as the National Theater, the Art Museum, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the charming Central Market, among other places. Traditional dinner included. 

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Barceló San Jose or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    3040 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    San Jose City Bus Tour

    Light

    See more

    12th Day: San Jose - Night on board

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    Breakfast at the hotel.* At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to board your flight back to the UK/Ireland. Night on board.

    *Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

    13th Day: UK/Ireland

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    Arrive in the UK/Ireland and end your trip.

    Categories

    charm

    From £ 2,399

    Selected
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      Included activities

      Included

      Visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens

      Included activity for day 2 in San José

      Arriving at the park you will walk through a beautiful trail and enjoy a delicious lunch in the middle of the forest. Then, continue exploring and visit the impressive natural waterfalls formed by the La Paz river.

      Duration 05:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Moderate

      This hike takes place in the tropical rainforest, along a trail that is paved and has steps.

      more information
      Included

      Tour of Tortuguero Village

      Included activity for day 3 in Tortuguero

      In the afternoon, enjoy a fascinating tour of the sights of Tortuguero, including the Turtle Conservation Museum and the lively village. Enjoy a boat ride through the leafy canals back to the hotel.

      Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 15:00 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Light

      Recommended: comfortable shoes, comfortable clothes, camera, raincoat, sunscreen and insect repellent.

      more information
      Included

      Canals of Tortuguero Boat Tour

      Included activity for day 4 in Tortuguero

      Set off on a relaxing boat trip along the canals of Tortuguero, admiring the abundant flora and fauna along the route!

      Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:30 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Light

      Recommended: comfortable shoes, comfortable clothes, camera, raincoat.

      more information
      Included

      Peñas Blancas River Adventure

      Included activity for day 6 in Arenal

      Set off on an exciting river safari in an inflatable raft along the quiet Rio Peñas Blancas. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, travel through the abundant waterways, teeming with colourful flora and fauna!

      Duration 04:30h Approx. Pick up time: 07:30 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Light

      It is recommended to bring a cap or hat, comfortable clothes, closed shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, camera and binoculars. This activity is not suitable for babies, if travelling with a baby the activity will be changed.

      more information

      Show more

      Available Activities

      Activities are subject to availability. The price for each optional activity will be shown in the next step of the booking process.
      Optional

      Guided hike to the Arenal Volcano

      Suggested activity for day 6 in Arenal

      Take a guided hiking excursion to the Mirador el Silencio to discover the abundant landscapes of the incredible Arenal Volcano! Discover the rich flora and fauna of the rainforest and learn about one of Costa Rica's most iconic natural wonders.

      Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 14:00 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Active

      Recommended: cap or hat, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, closed shoes and camera

      more information
      Optional

      Cloud Forests Excursion

      Suggested activity for day 7 in Arenal

      Take a guided tour through the trails and suspension bridges of the Arenal Volcano jungle. Explore its tropical fauna, such as the quetzal bird and, depending on the season, the characteristic mist that envelops its vegetation.

      Duration 02:30h Approx. Pick up time: 07:50 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Moderate

      more information
      Optional

      Boat Safari on Tamarindo Estuary

      Suggested activity for day 9 in Tamarindo

      Discover the unique flora and fauna which inhabit the lush mangroves. Look out for noisy howler monkeys, crocodiles and iguanas, whilst appreciating the colourful birdlife above.

      Duration 02:30h Approx. Pick up time: 07:00 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Light

      All timings are approximate and dependent on traffic, weather and local conditions. This timing schedule is intended for guidance only and is subject to change by our guide or driver.

      more information
      Optional

      San Jose City Bus Tour

      Suggested activity for day 11 in San José

      Embark on a city tour of the highlights of San Jose including the National Theatre, Art Museum, Metropolitan Cathedral and the charming Central Market, among other sights. Authentic Costa Rican dinner included.

      Duration 03:30h Approx. Pick up time: 15:15 Approx

      Physical rating:

      Light

      Comfortable shoes, comfortable clothes, camera, etc.

      more information

      The price includes

      • Departures from main UK/Ireland airports.
      • International flights: UK/Ireland - San Jose - UK/Ireland.
      • 11 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.
        See hotels included
      • 9 Breakfasts, Full Board in Tortugero and All Inclusive in Tamarindo.
      • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
      • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
        See itinerary
      • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
      • Safari boat in Arenal.
      • All inclusive in Occidental Tamarindo.
      • ATOL Protection.
      • Bilingual English/Spanish speaking guide during the excursions.

      Not included

      Drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included. 

      If your destination is in the USA or Canada, or if your selected flights to a different destination have connections in the USA or Canada, it is mandatory to have an ESTA (for USA) or an eTA (for Canada) before travelling.

      ESTA: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/

      eTA: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html

      Please note that the times shown in the itinerary may be affected by operational reasons. Follow the guidance provided in-country by the local provider.

      Travel times in some areas may be longer due to factors like traffic, weather, or possible road closures that may occasionally cause delays.


      Keep in mind that a 3 star hotel (charm) quality standards in Costa Rica may be lower than the equivalently rated in US/UK/Canada (depending on the market).


      This is an independent tour with guided shared activities, not an escorted group tour.


      Some activities may be guided by a bilingual guide (English and Spanish) who provides explanations in both languages, depending on the composition of the group.


      Any hotel mentioned in the offer, whether the main one or an alternative, is as likely as each other to be confirmed. You will find your final hotel confirmation on your updated trip summary approximately 15 days before departure.

      • Entry requirements

        Valid passport with at least six months validity.

      • Visa

        Visa is not required for stays less than 90 days.

      • Currency

        Costa Rican Colon

      • Language

        Spanish

      • Electricity

        110 V. Adapter required.

      • Health

        Please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis.

      • Time zone

        UTC - 06:00

      • Other useful information

        Local emergency number: 128

      • Tourist Office website

        https://www.visitcostarica.com/en

      Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

      Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

      In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.

      If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +44 20 8068 3176 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

      While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

      Room allocation: We will do our best to accommodate your family in the same room. If availability doesn't permit this, we guarantee your family will be accommodated as close together as possible. Children will always be accomodated in a room with at least 1 adult.

      Booster seats: Not available in all destinations. Feel free to take your own if you need one.

      The Foreign & Commonwealth Office offer up-to-date travel advice by visiting https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

      Pay in installments

      Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.

      Rest is paid in instalments according to your departure date.

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