Natural parks of the Caribbean & Pacific

Set off early for Tortuguero, travelling through the lush Braulio Carrillo National Park. Along the way, stop in Guápiles to enjoy a delicious included breakfast.

Upon arrival at the boat dock,  embark on one of the most beautiful journeys, gliding through the canals aboard a motorised boat to the lodge, a charming accommodation nestled on the canal’s edge, followed by lunch at the main restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit the picturesque and colourful village of Tortuguero, situated on a small island between the Caribbean rainforest and an extensive network of rivers, lagoons, and canals. Take a pleasant walking tour to experience the lively traditional Caribbean life of the locals. Return to the lodge for dinner. Overnight stay in Tortuguero.

Total distance covered today: 112 miles (approx 5.5hrs).

Breakfast at the lodge. In the morning, explore Tortuguero National Park*, one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, located on the Caribbean coast in Limón province.

Relax on a pleasant boat ride through Tortuguero’s canals, admiring the abundant flora and fauna of the nature reserve. The park is home to eleven habitats, 2,000 plant species, and 400 tree species, including lilies, cedars, palms, and aquatic ferns, as well as manatees, jaguars, otters, sloths, crocodiles, basilisk lizards, and hundreds of bird species. Return to the lodge for lunch.

The afternoon is free to explore the surroundings at your own pace or simply relax, stroll along the beach, or cool off in the pool. If you’re travelling during nesting season, we highly recommend witnessing this incredible natural event at least once in your life. With a bit of luck, you might see turtles returning to the beach where they were born, carefully burying their eggs in the sand before heading back to the sea (July to September). Enjoy a delicious dinner. Overnight stay in Tortuguero.

*Entry to Tortuguero National Park is not included. Cost per person: roughly $15, payable directly to the guide.

Breakfast at the lodge. In the morning, begin the return journey by boat to La Pavona port, gliding through the green canals of the tropical rainforest. Upon arrival, continue by road to the town of Guápiles, arriving in time to enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch.

Then continue inland to La Fortuna in Alajuela province, known for the magnificent Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most important and spectacular natural landmarks. Arrive at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon exploring the beautiful cloud forest surroundings at your own pace.

You can also visit one of the area’s many hot springs to relax and enjoy the naturally heated waters, or take the optional visit to Paradise Hot Springs.* Overnight stay in Alajuela.

*Optional visit to Paradise Hot Springs: Just a 5-minute drive from central La Fortuna de San Carlos and close to the main hotels in the Arenal Volcano area, Paradise Hot Springs is set in a stunning natural environment with beautiful tropical gardens and naturally heated thermal pools. Enjoy the comfort of the Palma Real, Los Papiros, and Pangea pools, along with the relaxing hydro-massage jacuzzis, Ginger and Oasis. This is an unmissable experience, offering a natural and relaxing environment to enjoy alone or with company. We recommend bringing comfortable spare clothing, sandals, insect repellent, a hat, rain gear, a camera, sunscreen, and a swimsuit. Dinner included. Transfer to the hotel.

Total distance covered today: 131 miles (approx 5hrs).