Central and South America

Day 1 – Fly to San José
Fly to Costa Rica’s vibrant capital, San José. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time before joining your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.

Day 2 – Discover San José & Escazú
Explore San José’s historic streets, museums and landmarks before visiting the colonial town of Escazú. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, learn about traditional Costa Rican “mascaradas” and visit a working sugar cane mill.

Day 3 – Journey to Tortuguero
Travel through Braulio Carrillo National Park, passing banana and cocoa plantations en route to Tortuguero. Arrive by boat and learn from a local resident how the area evolved into one of Costa Rica’s most important wildlife conservation regions.

Day 4 – Tortuguero National Park
Cruise through the waterways of Tortuguero National Park in search of monkeys, reptiles, birds and other wildlife. Later, visit Tortuguero village and gain an insight into local life.

Day 5 – Tortuguero to Arenal
Leave the Caribbean coast behind as you travel through Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes towards Arenal Volcano. En route, visit a local farm in Sarapiquí and sample freshly harvested heart of palm.

Day 6 – Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Visit the Eco Centro Danaus wildlife reserve before exploring Arenal 1968 Park, where trails offer spectacular views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. End the day with a relaxing soak in the area’s famous hot springs.

Day 7 – Río Peñas Blancas & Chocolate Experience
Float along the peaceful Río Peñas Blancas, keeping an eye out for monkeys, birds and other wildlife. Later, visit a cacao farm to discover the chocolate-making process and enjoy a tasting before dinner in Arenal.

Day 8 – Monteverde Cloud Forest
Travel to the misty cloud forests of Monteverde. This evening, experience a guided night walk and discover the fascinating wildlife that emerges after dark.

Day 9 – Hanging Bridges & Monteverde Heritage
Walk among the treetops on Monteverde’s famous Hanging Bridges, offering unique views of the cloud forest ecosystem. Later, learn about the region’s Quaker heritage from a local host.

Day 10 – Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
Journey to the Pacific coast and Manuel Antonio, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and beautiful beaches. Enjoy scenic views across the Gulf of Nicoya before arriving at your hotel.

Day 11 – Manuel Antonio National Park
Explore Manuel Antonio National Park, home to monkeys, sloths, tropical birds and lush rainforest. Follow scenic trails to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful white-sand beaches.

Day 12 – Local Flavours of Quepos
Enjoy a leisurely morning before visiting Quepos farmers’ market to select fresh ingredients. Continue to a private ranch in Londres, where local cooks will guide you in preparing a traditional Costa Rican meal.

Day 13 – Return to San José
Transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport for your overnight flight home.

Day 14 – Arrive Home
Arrive home after an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica’s rainforests, cloud forests, volcanoes and coastline.