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Pura Vida & Paradise in Tamarindo

Costa Rica in 10 Days, 8 Nights in Destination

From

$2,159

$1,399

/person

-35%

Rachel, Travel Expert

Rachel
Travel crafter

The perfect overview of Costa Rica for those short on time, including lush rainforests, abundant wildlife and paradise beaches.

Trip Highlights

  1. map-pin-check-icon
    Arenal
  2. map-pin-check-icon
    Guanacaste
  3. map-pin-check-icon
    San Jose
  4. map-pin-check-icon
    Tamarindo

Included

  1. All flights

  2. Accommodation

  3. All transfers

  4. Activities

  5. Breakfast only

Availability

  1. Departures available until March 2026

  2. Available Group tours

  3. Solo travelers from + $610

  4. Add up to 3 nights to your stay

  5. WHAT'S THIS?

Categories available

  1. superior included

  2. superior self-drive from + $200

  3. luxury from + $2,200

  4. WHAT'S THIS?

Book with an expert:

1-888-488-0592

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Itinerary

The perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in the tropical paradise of Costa Rica. Stroll through the historic streets of San José and feel the strength of the Arenal Volcano as you uncover the native wildlife on a nature hike. Admire the verdant landscapes of the interior before heading to the coast for a relaxing stay in Tamarindo. Ready to live the Pura Vida?

1st Day: US - San José

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Ready to live the Pura Vida in Costa Rica? Arrive at your US departure airport to board a flight* to San José. Arrive in the capital of Costa Rica and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure getting to know the colonial plazas and charming neighbourhoods of San Jose. Overnight stay in San José. 

 

Accommodation

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

2941 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
Tilajari Resort & Confere... or similar
tripadvisor rating

542 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 - Rio Peñas Blancas - Arenal

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, 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 colorful flora and fauna. Look out for monkeys, toucans and sloths and spot vibrant tropical birds as you soak up the beauty of the immaculate natural environment. Return to Arenal and enjoy the remainder of the day relaxing at your leisure and enjoying the views of the Arenal Volcano. Overnight stay in Arenal

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Tilajari Resort & Confere... or similar
tripadvisor rating

542 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Peñas Blancas River Adventure

Light

See more

4th Day: Arenal

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Breakfast at the hotel. Another free day to enjoy the tranquillity of this beautiful natural environment. We recommend the optional excursion to the Hanging Bridges for a unique view of the rainforest, or a sloth observation excursion.* 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. Journey across a series of hanging bridges for a birds-eye view of the rainforest.

* Optional Sloth Observation Excursion: 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 with the help of an expert guide. 

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Tilajari Resort & Confere... or similar
tripadvisor rating

542 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

Optional
Cloud Forests Excursion

Moderate

See more
Optional
Sloth Observation Excursion

Light

See more

5th Day: Arenal - Tamarindo

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After a delicious breakfast transfer to Tamarindo, in the province of Guanacaste, known for its beautiful beaches and surfing. Arrive at the hotel and begin your relaxed beach stay surrounded by idyllic beaches, bathed in Guanacaste sunshine. Overnight stay in Tamarindo.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Wyndham Tamarindo or similar
tripadvisor rating

1359 Reviews

See our full selection

6th Day: Tamarindo

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Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, set off to Las Baulas National Park to enjoy a boat safari through its lush mangroves. A 2-hour boat tour will take you through rich, biodiverse habitats, teeming with monkeys, tropical birds and crocodiles. Feel close to nature as you soak up the beautiful landscapes and learn about the unique habitat with the help of an expert naturalist guide. Slowly travel along the channels, so as not to disturb the wildlife, and admire the wonderful natural beauty of this idyllic reserve. Back at the hotel, the remainder of the day is free at your leisure. We recommend an optional canopy tour in the Hilltop Eco Adventure Park.* Overnight stay in Tamarindo.

Optional Canopy Tour: Begin your adventure in the treetops of the Hilltop Eco Adventure Park, for fantastic views of Tamarindo Bay and a series of suspension bridges and zip wires to explore the rainforest like a pro! It's a heart-pumping experience to see wildlife from this unique vantage point! 

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Wyndham Tamarindo or similar
tripadvisor rating

1359 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Boat Safari on Tamarindo Estuary

Light

See more
Optional
Tamarindo Canopy Tour

Moderate

See more

7th Day: Tamarindo

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Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day relaxing on the beaches of Tamarindo at your leisure. If you'd rather get moving and see more of the region, embark on one of our optional excursions such as a Catamaran Tour or a Quad Biking experience!* Overnight stay in Tamarindo.

* Optional Catamaran Tour: Set off in the morning on a relaxing catamaran tour. The route is the same as the afternoon but with much less boat traffic. Look out for marine life such as whales, dolphins and rays, and enjoy snorkelling in the clear waters. Buffet brunch included. 

Quad Biking (ATV) Experience: Immerse yourself in the verdant rainforest of the mountains surrounding Tamarindo, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Live an exciting experience driving along the dirt roads that lead to the breathtaking viewpoint over the Guanacaste coast. One vehicle is assigned per person, although there is the option to share, in which case, both passengers must pay the same service fee as if they were driving alone. Excursion without driver and with guide. Minimum 2 quads for the tour to operate.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Wyndham Tamarindo or similar
tripadvisor rating

1359 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

Optional
Tamarindo Catamaran Excursion

Light

See more
Optional
Quad Biking (ATV) Excursion in Tamarindo

Moderate

See more

8th Day: Tamarindo - 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 VIP 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.

Accommodation

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

2941 Reviews

See our full selection

9th Day: San José - 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 US. Night on board.

10th Day: US

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Touch down in the US and end your trip, filled with brilliant memories and feeling refreshed after your Costa Rican adventure!

Select a day to go to next step

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Categories Available:

superior

From $1,399

Selected

  • Accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.
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superior self-drive

From $1,599

  • Accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.
  • Compact Rental Car (Sedan or similar type vehicle).
luxury

From $3,599

  • Accommodation in Superior and Luxury category hotels.

Accommodation: 8 Nights

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

Peñas Blancas River Adventure

Included activity for day 3 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 colorful 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
Included

Boat Safari on Tamarindo Estuary

Included activity for day 6 in Tamarindo

Discover the unique flora and fauna which inhabit the lush mangroves on a boat safari! 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

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

more information
Optional

Cloud Forests Excursion

Suggested activity for day 4 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

Sloth Observation Excursion

Suggested activity for day 4 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 Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

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

more information
Optional

Tamarindo Canopy Tour

Suggested activity for day 6 in Tamarindo

Nestled in the hills about 30 minutes outside of Tamarindo and Flamingo, you’ll zip from tree to tree exploring the local flora and fauna from a completely exhilarating point of view!

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 09:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Moderate

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

Show more

The price includes

  • premium-care-icon
    Included in all our trips. more information
  • Departures from main US airports.
  • International flights: US - San José - US.
  • 8 nights accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.
    See hotels included
  • 8 breakfasts.
  • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
  • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
    See itinerary
  • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
  • English-speaking guide only during excursions.

*The cancellation policy applicable is according to the Terms and Conditions available and agreed at the time of your purchase

Not included

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

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.

  • 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

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 canceled without prior notice.

Children: 3 - 10 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 +1 888-488-0592 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.

Pay in installments

Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.

Pay the rest in installments depending on your departure date

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