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    Arenal, Puerto Viejo & Bocas del Toro

    Costa Rica & Panama in 12 Days, 11 Nights in Destination

    Valentine, Travel Expert

    Valentine
    Travel crafter

    A nature-focused trip through two captivating Central American countries. Experience the views from the Arenal Volcano, the Caribbean charms of Puerto Viejo and the island paradise of Bocas del Toro.

    Trip Highlights

    1. map-pin-check-icon
      Arenal
    2. map-pin-check-icon
      Puerto Limón
    3. map-pin-check-icon
      Puerto Viejo
    4. map-pin-check-icon
      San José
    5. map-pin-check-icon
      Bocas del toro

    Included

    1. All flights

    2. Accommodation

    3. All transfers

    4. Activities

    5. Breakfast only

    Availability

    1. Departures available until December 2025

    2. Available Group tours

    3. Solo travelers from + £ 900

    4. WHAT'S THIS?

    Categories available

    1. superior included

    2. luxury from + £ 1,100

    3. WHAT'S THIS?

    From

    £ 3,699

    £ 2,399

    /person

    -35%

    Book with an expert:

    +44 20 76 60 34 10

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    Best Price Guarantee

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    Itinerary

    Bask in the tropical paradises of Costa Rica and Panama on a wonderful journey from the rainforests of Arenal to the azure beaches of Bocas del Toro. Touch down in historic San José and explore the wildlife-rich rainforests that surround the majestic Arenal Volcano. In Puerto Viejo, soak up the Caribbean charms before crossing the border to fall in love with the paradise beaches of Bocas del Toro.

    1st Day: UK/Ireland - San José

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    Arrive at your UK/Ireland departure airport to board a flight to San José.* Arrive in the capital of Costa Rica and transfer to your hotel. If time allows, get out and explore the vibrant neighbourhoods and colonial architecture of this charming, historic city. Overnight stay in San José.

    * 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 José - Arenal

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    Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, take a shared transfer to Arenal, passing by the lush landscapes of Costa Rica's interior. Arrive at the hotel and check-in. In the afternoon, meet your guide and embark on a guided 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 can discover the abundant flora and fauna which inhabits the rainforest, which is being regenerated. Learn all about the Arenal Volcano and its history and activity from your guide. After the hike, you may choose to visit one of the popular hot springs in the area to relax and enjoy the thermal waters, which are naturally heated by the volcano (optional extras).* Overnight stay in Arenal.

    * Paradise Hot Springs Pass: 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.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Eco Arenal Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    289 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Guided hike to the Arenal Volcano

    Active

    See more
    Optional
    Paradise Hot Springs Pass

    Light

    See more

    3rd Day: Arenal

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    Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel and enjoy a day at your leisure to relax or explore. We recommend an optional excursion to La Fortuna Waterfall or, alternatively, explore the hanging-bridges of Arenal's cloud forest.* Whatever you choose to do, the beauty of the natural surroundings is sure to make for a memorable day! Overnight stay in Arenal.

    Optional Hanging Bridges Cloud Forest Excursion:  Admire the beauty of the forest and the backdrop of the Arenal Volcano and gain valuable insight into the native plant and animal species from your expert guide. Take a 3km long route which consists of a combination of paths and 8 bridges, where you can explore the different layers of the cloud forest as well as the inhabitants of each of them from the ground up to the treetops.

    *Optional Excursion to La Fortuna Waterfall: Explore the delights of the exotic rainforest as you take a guided hike to the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall. The well-kept walkways make this an accessible nature walk for most people, who will be rewarded with excellent views of the waterfall and the chance to take a dip in its crystalline waters. 

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Eco Arenal Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    289 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Cloud Forests Excursion

    Moderate

    See more
    Optional
    Guided-Walk to the La Fortuna Waterfall

    Moderate

    See more

    4th Day: Arenal

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to enjoy the tranquillity of this beautiful natural environment. Overnight stay in Arenal.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Eco Arenal Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    289 Reviews

    See our full selection

    5th Day: Arenal - Puerto Viejo

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a laid-back morning at your leisure to relax or explore the local area. In the afternoon, set off towards the Atlantic Coast and to Puerto Viejo in the province of Limon. Know for its laid-back atmosphere, nightlife and great food and drinks scene, a stay in sunny Puerto Viejo is the perfect antidote to our busy lives. Arrive, transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay in Puerto Viejo.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Namuwoki Lodge or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    368 Reviews

    See our full selection

    6th Day: Puerto Viejo - Cahuita National Park - Puerto Viejo

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    Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, set off to the Cahuita National Park for an unforgettable nature hike where you can observe the local wildlife ranging from snakes to monkeys, racoons, butterflies and anteaters. Explore the 3.5 kilometres of natural trails between Punta Cahuita and Cahuita town with an expert guide, learning lots about the local animal and plant life along the way. Enjoy a traditional tropical fruit-based snack before returning to Puerto Viejo. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight stay in Puerto Viejo.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Namuwoki Lodge or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    368 Reviews

    See our full selection

    7th Day: Puerto Viejo - Bocas del Toro

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Set off early this morning* to catch a shared transfer to the Sixaolo border between Panama and Costa Rica and across to the idyllic paradise of Bocas del Toro, taking the boat from Almirante to Isla Colon and continuing by road to your hotel. This gorgeous island chain, which stretches out into the Caribbean Sea, is a tropical wonderland of turquoise waters, lush rainforests and sandy atolls. Once settled at the hotel, enjoy the remainder of the day relaxing at your own pace. Overnight stay in Bocas del Toro.

    * The transfer time can be 6am, 8am or 12pm. The schedule will be confirmed at the destination.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Divers Paradise or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    219 Reviews

    See our full selection

    8th Day: Bocas del Toro - Cayo Coral - Cayo Zapatilla - Bocas del Toro

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Begin the day by walking to the pier where the adventure begins as you set off on a boat tour to observe the dolphin pods that inhabit the waters around Bahia Honda. Continue to Cayo Coral where you'll have the chance the snorkel in the warm waters to explore the colorful underwater world and 'coral gardens'. Discover the gorgeous beaches of Cayo Zapatilla famous for its exotic white sand beaches and tropical waters. As the day draws to a close, return to Bocas del Toro and your hotel. Overnight stay in Bocas del Toro.

    Please note: The order of the tour may differ depending on the weather. Snorkelling equipment included. The total duration of the tour will be between approximately 6 and 7 hours.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Divers Paradise or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    219 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Bahia Delfines, Cayo Coral and Cayo Zapatilla

    Moderate

    See more

    9th Day: Bocas del Toro, Panamá

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a day at your leisure in Bocas del Toro. This is the perfect opportunity to kick-back on the beach and enjoy the tropical climate at your own pace. Tuck into the Caribbean cuisine that this region is famed for and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Overnight stay in Bocas del Toro. 

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Divers Paradise or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    219 Reviews

    See our full selection

    10th Day: Bocas del Toro - Puerto Viejo

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    Breakfast at the hotel. It's time to return to Costa Rica around midday as you take a shared boat transfer back to Almirante and a shared road transfer to Puerto Viejo, crossing the border at Sixaola. Get settled at the hotel in Puerto Viejo and enjoy the remainder of the evening at your leisure, taking in the beautiful sea views. Overnight stay in Puerto Viejo. 

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Namuwoki Lodge or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    368 Reviews

    See our full selection

    11th Day: Puerto Viejo - San José

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Take a shared transfer back to the capital, to spend your last night in San José. We suggest taking a stroll through this beautiful city or enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Alternatively, enjoy an optional City Bus Tour for a good overview of the city sights and a memorable end to your Costa Rican adventure.* Overnight stay in San José.

    * Optional San José City Bus 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 José - UK/Ireland

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    Breakfast at the hotel. It's time to bid farewell to beautiful Central America. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to board your flight back to the UK/Ireland.* Arrive in the UK/Ireland and end your trip.

    * If your return flight departs in the evening, your arrival in the UK/Ireland will be the following day and the total duration of your trip will be 13 days.

    Categories

    superior

    From £ 2,399

    Selected
    • Accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.
    check-icon
    luxury

    From £ 3,499

    • Accommodation in Superior and Luxury category hotels.

    Pick a date and start customising your trip

    Learn more

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    May 2025
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    August 2025

    Included activities

    Included

    Guided hike to the Arenal Volcano

    Included activity for day 2 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
    Included

    Bahia Delfines, Cayo Coral and Cayo Zapatilla

    Included activity for day 8 in Bocas del toro

    Start the tour by visiting a tranquil bay where you can observe dolphins in their natural habitat. Next, snorkel in Cayo Coral, amidst a garden of coral. Finally, enjoy white sand, exotic beaches. Optional lunch in a restaurant overlooking the ocean.

    Duration 06:00h Approx.

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    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 Approx. Pick up time: 17:30 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    Towel, bathing suit and change of clothes / This activity is only available for adults.

    more information
    Optional

    Cloud Forests Excursion

    Suggested activity for day 3 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

    Guided-Walk to the La Fortuna Waterfall

    Suggested activity for day 3

    Enjoy a guided nature-walk through the rainforest to the La Fortuna waterfall, where you can swim in its clear waters. Your expert guide will help to point our the numerous plant and bird species along the way!

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

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    There is another departure of this tour at 1:00 p.m.

    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 José - UK/Ireland.
    • 11 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.
      See hotels included
    • 11 breakfasts.
    • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
    • Visits and entrance fees with an English-speaking guide as indicated in the itinerary.
      See itinerary
    • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
    • ATOL Protection.
    • Bilingual English/Spanish speaking guide during the excursions.
    • Dolphin-watching boat tour in Bahia Honda.

    Not included

    Entrances*, drinks, tips, border taxes and costs ($9 per person departure tax when leaving Costa Rica) and any other services not mentioned in what's included. 

    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.

  • Costa Rica
  • Panama
    • 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.


    Children: 2 - 8 years.


    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 https://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.

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

    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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