The Leatherback and Lava Pac is one of our most popular Costa Rica nature vacations. This exciting safari starts off in the wilds of Tortuguero where you'll have a chance to get up close and personal with exotic wildlife in one of the most remote regions of Costa Rica. Then you'll be headed to Arenal Volcano for fun filled adventure by day and soothing hot springs by night. 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!

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% (46 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

Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa

Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa

Overall 89.8% (97 guest ratings)
Location: Arenal

Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is a captivating retreat that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens and with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, this hotel provides a tranquil and picturesque setting. The comfortable and well-appointed rooms and suites offer modern amenities and balconies or terraces where guests can admire the panoramic vistas. The hotel's spa is a haven of serenity, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments and therapies to unwind and restore balance. Guests can enjoy the free-form swimming pool or indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking, canopy tours, and horseback riding. The on-site restaurant offers a delectable culinary experience, showcasing both local and international flavors. With its warm hospitality, breathtaking surroundings, and convenient location near Arenal Volcano National Park, Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa is the ideal choice for an unforgettable stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

While at Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa, the room you will enjoy is a Junior Suite. Junior Suites offer the following amenities: air conditioning, balcony or terrace, cable tv, coffee service, hair dryer, hot tub, internet free, mini fridge, phone, safe deposit box, volcano view.

Meals: Breakfast

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Day 5

Sloth Tour

Sloth Tour

Overall 93.9% (196 guest ratings)
Location: Arenal
Min. Guests: 1
Min. Age: 6

Today you'll be chauffeured in an air-conditioned van making many stops to see sloths, toucans and other interesting birds, iguanas, and tropical frogs. The wildlife will be visible with just a short walk from the van making this a perfect tour for seniors and children. Your certified guide will set up a high-powered spotting scope for up-close viewing with an adaptor that can allow you to attach your camera for taking photos through the scope. You'll stop to eat at Arenal Oasis and Wildlife Refuge surrounded by bird feeders. Tours starting at 6am provide breakfast, tours starting at 2pm provide a hearty afternoon snack plus beverage. You will have the option to take a short 20-minute hike while at the Refuge then you will be driven back to your lodging. The tour includes a bilingual guide, admission fee, bottled water, breakfast or afternoon snack, plus transportation to and from your hotel in Arenal/La Fortuna. The combined time of the tour is about 3 hours depending on your pick up location.

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Day 6

Arenal Hanging Bridges

Arenal Hanging Bridges

Overall 92.6% (1,343 guest ratings)
Location: Arenal
Min. Guests: 2
Min. Age: 4

The Mistico Arenal 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. All of the 12 bridges vary in height and length and provide an interesting way to observe the rainforest canopy. In addition to learning about the jungle, you may also be fortunate enough to see wild animals such as monkeys, sloths, toucans, or iguanas. Wildlife observation is not guaranteed on this tour but often occurs and your guide will be ready with a spotting scope should animals decide to make an appearance. It is important to mention that open sandals or shoes are NOT permitted on this tour. 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.


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Day 7


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 Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa
  • Sloth Tour
  • Arenal Hanging Bridges
  • 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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