The Costa Rica Highlights vacation is a fabulous introduction to Costa Rica and all it has to offer. This fun filled getaway includes excellent wildlife observation opportunities as well as light adventures. It all starts off in Tortuguero where you'll have the opportunity to see exotic wildlife in one of the most remote regions of Costa Rica. Then you're off to Arenal Volcano for adventure by day and hot springs by night. Your vacation will wind down in Manuel Antonio which is home to an amazing national park that is loaded with wildlife and beautiful beaches. Similar to all of our amazing vacations, this value-packed itinerary can be 100% customized to your budget and needs. Check pricing notes for details. Take Advantage of Green Season Discounts of up to $280!

Day 1

Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival to San Jose International Airport (contact us for details if arriving at other airport), you will receive a VIP Airport Greeting by a Pacific Trade Winds representative.

Hotel Presidente

Hotel Presidente

Overall 92.1% (45 guest ratings)
Location: San Jose

Hotel Presidente in San Jose, Costa Rica, is a contemporary urban retreat that combines modern comforts with a touch of local charm. Located in the heart of downtown San Jose, this boutique hotel offers a convenient and stylish base for both business and leisure travelers. The well-appointed rooms and suites feature sleek and contemporary designs, with comfortable furnishings and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy delicious dining options at the on-site restaurant, where a fusion of international and Costa Rican flavors tantalize the taste buds. The hotel's rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of the city, creating a perfect spot to relax and unwind. With its central location, guests have easy access to the city's attractions, including museums, theaters, and lively markets. The attentive and friendly staff ensure that every guest's needs are met, providing personalized service and making each stay truly memorable. Hotel Presidente offers a modern and welcoming oasis in the bustling city of San Jose, allowing guests to experience the best of Costa Rican hospitality and urban comfort. Amenities include spa, bar, lounge, fitness center, meeting space, wireless internet, airport transfer, and secure parking.

While at Hotel Presidente, the room you will enjoy is a Concept Room. Concept Rooms offer the following amenities: air conditioning, cable tv, desk, hair dryer, internet, internet free, safe deposit box, sitting area, terrace.

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 2

Mawamba Lodge

Mawamba Lodge

Overall 91.5% (82 guest ratings)
Location: Mawamba Lodge

Mawamba Lodge is a tranquil ecolodge retreat nestled within the exotic wilderness of Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica. Surrounded by lush rainforest and bordered by winding canals, the lodge offers a unique and immersive experience in nature. The lodge's spacious and comfortable bungalows and rooms are designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment, providing a peaceful and cozy retreat for guests. Each accommodation features modern amenities and terraces or balconies overlooking the gardens or canals. The lodge's restaurant serves a variety of delicious meals, including local and international cuisine, prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy their meals while admiring the stunning views of the surrounding nature. Mawamba Lodge offers a range of exciting activities and guided tours, allowing guests to explore the biodiversity-rich rainforest and witness the fascinating wildlife of Tortuguero. Boat tours through the canals offer opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and even nesting sea turtles during the appropriate season. Guests can also enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching excursions, fishing trips, and kayaking adventures. The lodge's swimming pool provides a refreshing oasis where guests can relax and soak up the tropical ambiance. With its commitment to sustainable practices and its privileged location in the heart of Tortuguero, Mawamba Lodge offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers. Lodge amenities include a swimming pool and whirlpool, restaurant and bar, coffee room with a put-and-take library, tropical gardens and trails, and WiFi in some public areas. Please note that there is a 15 dollar entrance fee to enter Tortuguero National Park or 5 dollars for kids age 5 to 11. It is not possible to include this in your price as it must be paid in person upon arrival to the area.

While at Mawamba Lodge, the room you will enjoy is a Standard 1 night. Standard 1 nights offer the following amenities: fan, safe deposit box, terrace.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 2

Tortuguero Town Tour - Mawamba Lodge

Tortuguero Town Tour - Mawamba Lodge

Overall 83.5% (63 guest ratings)
Location: Mawamba Lodge
Min. Guests: 1

You will go on a guided walk through the history-rich town of Tortuguero. This is a typical Caribbean coastal fishing village settled over time by a blend of cultures coming to Costa Rica. Your guide will walk you through the town so you can see how the present day villagers live and work in this friendly, colorful town. The 1-hour tour includes a bilingual guide.

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Day 3

Tortuguero Canal Tour - Mawamba Lodge

Tortuguero Canal Tour - Mawamba Lodge

Overall 94.3% (77 guest ratings)
Location: Mawamba Lodge
Min. Guests: 1

This is boat tour following canals carved through the dense rainforest within Tortuguero National Park, one of the best places in Costa Rica to go birding and see a diversity of wildlife. You will go on a 2 - 3-hour riverboat ride by covered pontoon boat through the jungle-lined canals, which are located within the national park. Your boat captain and bilingual guide will point out all the visible forest-dwelling animals, plants and birdlife that live within this unique water and woodland eco-system including, but not limited to: monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, various species of amphibians and reptiles, plus many bird species.Tour time will be coordinated upon arrival to the lodge according with the activities program of the Hotel

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Day 4

Arenal Springs Resort and Spa

Arenal Springs Resort and Spa

Overall 95.1% (2,477 guest ratings)
Location: Arenal

Experience authentic Costa Rican charm and the soothing embrace of thermal hot springs at Arenal Springs Resort and Spa in La Fortuna. Set against the majestic backdrop of Arenal Volcano, this top-rated eco-resort offers not only breathtaking views but also lush tropical gardens and private hot springs for an exclusive retreat. Our friendly and welcoming staff ensure you never forget you're in the heart of Costa Rica, greeting you with warm smiles and providing delightful service. Our resort's amenities cater to all your needs, including thermal hot springs, a rejuvenating spa, adult and kids' swimming pools, Jacuzzi, sun deck, restaurants, pizza and sushi bars, wet bar, souvenir shop, Wi-Fi in select areas, a yoga platform, and a conference room. Plus, when you book your vacation through us, you'll enjoy an extra treat: a special 15% discount per person on spa treatments at Arenal Springs Resort, enhancing your Costa Rican getaway. This offer is only available to Pacific Trade Winds clients!

While at Arenal Springs Resort and Spa, the room you will enjoy is a Junior Suite. Junior Suites feature air-conditioning, cable TV, a ceiling fan, a minibar stocked with complimentary beverages for two people, a telephone, an in-room safe, a hair dryer, and a terrace area with a view of Arenal Volcano. Please note that when a single bed is listed, it is a single rollaway bed.

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 5

Choice: Canopy Hanging Bridges or Zipline

Choice: Canopy Hanging Bridges or Zipline

Overall 89.8% (47 guest ratings)
Location: Arenal
Min. Guests: 2
Min. Age: 4

Today you will have your choice of one of the following tour options:
A) The Hanging Bridges offer an amazing glimpse into the canopy of the rainforest! The hike includes terrestrial trails and bridges through the tree tops allowing you to view the forest from all perspectives. This fun filled half day tour includes guides, transportation and entrance to the private reserve. Please note that from April 20th to June 23rd, 2024, the Vista Arenal bridge segment of the tour will be temporarily unavailable due to scheduled annual maintenance procedures. However, rest assured that Mistico Park is committed to ensuring your continued enjoyment by enabling an alternative route during this time. Your understanding and patience are appreciated as they diligently work to enhance their offerings, striving to provide you with an exceptional experience.
B) The Canopy Zipline is a MUST DO for anybody adventurous that visits Costa Rica! This thrilling high speed, high flying course offers 11 zips as you soar from platform to platform near of the base of Arenal Volcano! This fun filled half day adventure includes transportation and guide.


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Day 6

Choice: Riverboat Safari or Rio Balsa Rafting

Choice: Riverboat Safari or Rio Balsa Rafting

Overall 89.9% (47 guest ratings)
Location: Arenal
Min. Guests: 2
Min. Age: 12

Today you will have your choice of one of the following tour options:
A) The Cano Negro Riverboat Safari is an amazing experience and opportunity to see numerous species of wildlife. The refuge is home to one of the largest populations of caimans, which can be observed at nearly every turn! It’s not only reptiles though as the area is also home to both spider monkeys and congo monkeys which can be heard howling from miles away. Birdwatchers will delight as hundreds of species either live here or migrate through including toucans, roseate spoonbills and trogons. This fun filled safari includes transportation, bilingual naturalist guide, and lunch.
B) Whitewater rafting is a thrilling adventure and Costa Rica is home to some of the best rivers and guides in the world! The day starts off with a brief safety lesson and you are then on your way as your guide navigates you through class II and III rapids on the Rio Balsa. This is a great river for first timers and those that want the thrills of rafting without going overboard - yes the pun was intended. No experience necessary on this half day adventure which includes transportation, safety kayaker, guides, lunch, and equipment.

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Day 7

La Vela Boutique Hotel

La Vela Boutique Hotel

Overall 94.5% (356 guest ratings)
Location: Manuel Antonio

La Vela Boutique Hotel invites you to relax and enjoy the warm tropical vibes of Manuel Antonio to the fullest. Located within a few minutes walk to the gorgeous Espadilla Beach or the exotic jungles of Manuel Antonio National Park. La Vela offers the ideal setting for your vacation. The thoughtfully decorated and modern rooms are surrounded by lush tropical gardens, providing the comforts of home and a touch of Costa Rican pura vida. Amenities of this unique hotel include a swimming pool, lounge area with sunbeds and sun umbrellas, tropical gardens, reception and information desk, tiki bar, pizza restaurant, souvenir shop, parking services, breakfast area with breakfast included, and complimentary WiFi.
Pro tip: While most Manuel Antonio hotels are located on the mountain and not within walking distance to the beach or national park, La Vela is located in the valley, on flat ground, within a few minutes walk of the beach, park, over 10 restaurants, and also shops and boutiques. With this prime location, you likely will not have to pay for taxi cabs or spend time arranging or waiting for them like you would at other area hotels. La Vela also has discounts set up for their guests at some great nearby restaurants!




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Day 8

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park

Overall 91.3% (1,837 guest ratings)
Location: Manuel Antonio
Min. Guests: 1
Min. Age: 2

Embark on a guided hike through Manuel Antonio National Park, led by expert local guides, for an immersive exploration of its lush rainforests, hidden beaches, and vibrant wildlife. The trail winds through the park's diverse landscapes, offering insights into the intricate relationships between flora and fauna. Your knowledgeable guide will point out elusive creatures like monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds, and share ecological and cultural information. Enjoy pristine beaches and the warm Pacific waters, all while contributing to the park's conservation efforts through entrance fees. This experience promises a deep connection to Costa Rica's natural beauty and biodiversity with the guidance of a local expert. This tour includes the park entrance fee, bilingual guide, and transportation. Note: This tour operator has improved wait conditions at the start of the tour during peak season, although it cannot regulate park-administrated delays. Depending on the distance from Manuel Antonio to your lodging, shuttle transportation may take from 15 minutes to an hour and a half. Regulations restrict bringing food into the park, and you may only bring water in with a reusable bottle. However, there is a new small food kiosk inside the park and water bottle refill stations.

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Day 9

Free Day - Beach Day Manuel Antonio

Free Day - Beach Day Manuel Antonio

No guest ratings
Location: Manuel Antonio
Min. Guests: 1

Beach day at Manuel Antonio to explore on your own. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the tropical sun on the palm studded beaches of the Pacific coast. Free days are for descriptive purposes only and do not include any services.

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Day 10


Final Day — All good things must come to an end, though memories last a lifetime. Transportation will be provided back to San Jose International Airport scheduled to arrive three hours prior to your departure flight.

¡Pura Vida!

Summary

  • Travel assistance while in Costa Rica
  • VIP Airport Greeting
  • All Domestic Transportation as described
  • 1 nights at Hotel Presidente
  • 2 nights at Mawamba Lodge
  • Tortuguero Town Tour - Mawamba Lodge
  • Tortuguero Canal Tour - Mawamba Lodge
  • 3 nights at Arenal Springs Resort and Spa
  • Choice: Canopy Hanging Bridges or Zipline
  • Choice: Riverboat Safari or Rio Balsa Rafting
  • 3 nights at La Vela Boutique Hotel
  • Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Free Day - Beach Day Manuel Antonio
  • Inquire for details about Included Meals/Drinks
  • Current sales and turismo taxes

Footnotes

This fun filled safari also includes all meals at Mawamba Lodge!

Pricing


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