January Sale ending soon

6 DAYS LEFT

See deals

Summer 2026 travel deals. Limited spots

Exoticca
flag-uk-circled-icon
Flex cancellation: peace of mind for just £99 per person
picture-icon

View 9 photos

Pura vida: Arenal & Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica in 8 Days, 7 Nights in Destination

Rachel, Travel Expert

Rachel
Travel crafter

Experience Costa Rica’s highlights in one week: tropical rainforests, volcanoes, and white sandy beaches. This essential route combines nature, wildlife, and mesmerising landscapes in one trip.

Trip Highlights

  1. map-pin-check-icon
    Arenal
  2. map-pin-check-icon
    La Fortuna Waterfall
  3. map-pin-check-icon
    Manuel Antonio National Park
  4. map-pin-check-icon
    San José

Included

  1. All flights

  2. Accommodation

  3. All transfers

  4. Activities

  5. Breakfast only

Availability

  1. Departures available until December 2026

  2. Available Group tours

  3. Solo travelers available

  4. Add up to 3 nights to your stay

  5. WHAT'S THIS?

Categories available

  1. charm included

  2. WHAT'S THIS?

From

£2,619

£1,699

/person

-35%
bpg-icon

Best Price Guarantee

abta_iconatol_icon

Exoticca is fully ABTA and ATOL protected

Itinerary

Explore the capital, San José, before travelling to La Fortuna, where you’ll discover the impressive Arenal Volcano and trails that wind through ancient lava flows in the heart of the rainforest. Continue on to the Pacific coast to enjoy the beaches and rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio, blending nature, relaxation, and unforgettable memories before returning home.

1st Day: UK/Ireland - San José

arrow-icon

Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport. Transfer to San José, the capital of Costa Rica and check in at the hotel. You’ll have time to explore this city with its rich coffee-growing heritage, where neoclassical buildings, century-old markets, and corners that tell the story of the country’s republican origins coexist. Overnight stay in San José.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Four Points by Sheraton S... or similar
tripadvisor rating

823 Reviews

See our full selection

2nd Day: San José - Arenal

arrow-icon

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, head to La Fortuna to see the spectacular Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks. Arrive at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon exploring the beautiful cloud forest surroundings at your own pace.

If you’re looking to relax, you can also join an optional visit to the hot springs to enjoy the warm waters, heated naturally by the volcano, at Paradise Hot Springs.* Overnight stay in Arenal.

*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. 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.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Arenal Country Inn or similar
tripadvisor rating

512 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

Optional
Paradise Hot Springs Pass

Light

See more

3rd Day: Arenal

arrow-icon

Breakfast at the hotel. The morning is free to rest, or you can join an optional excursion to see the charming sloths.*

In the afternoon, embark on an unforgettable hike to Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna. This active volcano is estimated to be around 7,000 years old, stands 1,633 meters tall, and has an almost perfect conical shape, making it one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the world.

Follow a hiking trail formed by ancient lava flows, admiring the tropical rainforest and its abundant flora and fauna along the way. At the viewpoint, the guide will explain the formation and history of the volcano. Overnight stay in Arenal.

*Optional Sloth-watching excursion: Meet these beloved, slow-moving icons of Costa Rica. Visit the “Sloth Territory,” a small ecological project that is home to a population of sloths. Follow the trails and observe two- and three-toed sloths resting in the treetops.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Arenal Country Inn or similar
tripadvisor rating

512 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Guided Hike to the Arenal Volcano

Active

See more
Optional
Sloth Observation Excursion

Light

See more

4th Day: Arenal - Manuel Antonio

arrow-icon

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave La Fortuna behind and set off toward the sea, enjoying the scenery of tropical mountains along the way to the Central Pacific coast. Stop at the Río Tárcoles viewpoint, famous for its large population of crocodiles.

Arrive in Manuel Antonio, one of Costa Rica’s most renowned destinations, celebrated for its combination of paradise beaches and tropical rainforest. The afternoon is free to relax at the beach or at the hotel. Overnight stay in Manuel Antonio.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Mono Azul or similar
tripadvisor rating

481 Reviews

See our full selection

5th Day: Manuel Antonio

arrow-icon

Breakfast at the hotel. Go on an exciting excursion through Manuel Antonio National Park. Hike just over three kilometres, taking in the pristine natural beauty and spotting exotic wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, birds, reptiles, and butterflies. At the end of the trail, you’ll reach a white-sand beach, one of the most beautiful in the country.

The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your own pace, with the option to stay inside the park until it closes. Overnight stay in Manuel Antonio.

Note: Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesdays. If your visit was scheduled for that day, it will be moved to Wednesday. Tuesday will be free or will be spent on the optional activity, if booked.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Mono Azul or similar
tripadvisor rating

481 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Half-Day Manuel Antonio National Park Excursion

Moderate

See more

6th Day: Manuel Antonio

arrow-icon

Breakfast at the hotel. A free day to enjoy at your own pace: relax on the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. In the afternoon, you can also join an optional catamaran tour with dinner.* Overnight stay in Manuel Antonio.

*Optional Catamaran evening with dinner: Enjoy the sunset over the Pacific on a scenic tour of bays and inlets. Depending on the season, you may also spot marine life. The tour includes a stop in a protected bay where you can go snorkelling (equipment provided). The experience ends with dinner as the sun sets over the horizon.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Mono Azul or similar
tripadvisor rating

481 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

Optional
Catamaran Evening with Dinner

Light

See more

7th Day: Manuel Antonio - San José

arrow-icon

Breakfast at the hotel. Return to the capital, travelling through the green valleys and mountains of central Costa Rica. Once back in San José, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. We recommend taking a walk to visit the National Theatre of Costa Rica or continuing to discover the local cuisine. Overnight stay in San José.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Four Points by Sheraton S... or similar
tripadvisor rating

823 Reviews

See our full selection

8th Day: San José - UK/Ireland

arrow-icon

Breakfast at the hotel. Your journey through Costa Rica comes to an end, but you’re returning with unforgettable memories. At the scheduled time, a transfer will pick you up to take you to the airport for your flight back to the UK/Ireland. Night on board.

Categories

charm

From £1,699

Selected
  • Accommodation in Charm category hotels.
check-icon

Pick a date and start customising your trip

Learn more

arrow-down-circle-icon

Previous

Next

arrow-down-circle-icon
January 2026
February 2026
March 2026
April 2026
We recommend you book early

Prices can rise at any time and departure dates fill up quickly. Secure your spot at the best price today.

Included activities

Included

Guided Hike to the Arenal Volcano

Included activity for day 3 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

Pick up time: 14:30

Physical rating:

Active

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

more information
Included

Half-Day Manuel Antonio National Park Excursion

Included activity for day 5 in Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore beaches with crystal-clear waters and observe monkeys, sloths, and reptiles in their natural habitat, while enjoying the tropical charm of this park.

Duration: 04:50h

Pick up time: 06:45

Physical rating:

Moderate

Recommended: sunscreen, camera, sunglasses, walking shoes, beach towel, swimsuit, and change of clothes. The National Park is closed on Tuesdays.

more information

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

Paradise Hot Springs Pass

Suggested activity for day 2

Enjoy an evening of indulgence with a pass to the Paradise Natural Hot Springs, heated by the Arenal Volcano. Enjoy access to three different hot pools and two hydromassage hot tubs, perfect for relaxing in the beautiful tropical surroundings.

Duration: 04:00h

Pick up time: 17:30

Physical rating:

Light

This activity is only available for adults.

more information
Optional

Sloth Observation Excursion

Suggested activity for day 3 in Arenal

Get to know these beloved slow-moving animals, icons of Costa Rica. Head to the aptly named 'Lazy Territory', a small eco-project, home to a population of sloths. Follow the trails and spot both two-toed and three-toed sloths resting in the treetops.

Duration: 03:00h

Pick up time: 07:45

Physical rating:

Light

Bring: Coat, Camera, Binoculars, Hiking shoes, Comfortable clothes and Insect repellent. All timings are approximate and dependent on different conditions. This schedule is intended for guidance only and is subject to change by our guide.

more information
Optional

Catamaran Evening with Dinner

Suggested activity for day 6 in Manuel Antonio National Park

Enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise through the bays of Manuel Antonio, with the chance to spot dolphins and turtles. Snorkel in a protected bay and savour a sunset dinner.

Duration: 04:00h

Pick up time: 14:00

Physical rating:

Light

more information

The price includes

  • Departures from main UK/Ireland airports.
  • International flights: UK/Ireland - San José - UK/Ireland.
  • 7 nights hotel accommodation in Charm category hotels.
    See hotels included
  • 7 breakfasts included.
  • All transfers
  • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
    See itinerary
  • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
  • Hike to Arenal Volcano.
  • Visit to Manuel Antonio National Park.
  • ATOL Protection.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish guide during 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: Official ESTA Application Website, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

eTA: Electronic travel authorization (eTA)

Pickup time for activities: Your exact pickup times will be confirmed in a specific document in your account before travel. Please be at the reception 5 minutes before the departure time for the transfer and activities. Punctuality is required for this shared service to ensure smooth operation for all travelers.

Travel times in certain areas may be longer due to traffic, weather, or road conditions, so occasional delays may occur.

Hotels in Costa Rica may differ from those in Europe and the United States.  They tend to be more traditional, set in natural surroundings, and have a unique charm.

This is an independent tour that includes shared, guided activities. It is not a fully escorted group tour with an accompanying guide.

Activities may be led by a bilingual guide (English and Spanish), with explanations provided in both languages, depending on the nationalities of the group.

All hotels listed in the package, both main and alternative options, have an equal chance of being assigned. Final hotel details will be confirmed in the 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.

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

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.

When booking a triple room, note that these accommodations are not larger than a double room, but will include either one double or two single beds and a sofa bed/rollaway.

Pay in installments

Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.

Rest is paid in instalments according to your departure date.

Exoticca Travel Stories

Creating unforgettable memories, one traveller at a time

Subscribe to our newsletter and join Exoticca GO

  • check-icon

    The best travel deals

  • check-icon

    Exclusive promotions

  • check-icon

    Expert travel tips