Tropical adventure from Pacuare to Corcovado
In summary
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Sports
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Duration15 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationAmerica / Costa Rica
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions332.65 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover Costa Rica at your own pace with a comprehensive itinerary combining nature, adventure, and authenticity. After your first night in San José , head towards the Pacuare River for an immersion in the jungle and a magical night at Ave Sol , in the heart of the tropical rainforest. The journey continues to Turrialba , an agricultural and volcanic region, before a superb hike to Mollejones , through forests, rivers, and rural villages, meeting the locals along the way.
You then head to Sarapiquí , a territory of biodiversity and rainforests, and then on to the majestic Arenal volcano . Between night hikes , sloth watching, exploring the 1968 trail and relaxing in the Ecotermales hot springs , the days promise to be full of excitement.
Next, head to the misty heights of Monteverde , a realm of suspension bridges and zip lines , before descending back to the Pacific coast via Carara and then Dominical . There, you'll enjoy unforgettable excursions: snorkeling at Isla Caño , exploring Corcovado National Park , a sanctuary for exceptional wildlife.
The journey ends in the mountains of San Gerardo de Dota , a hiker's paradise and refuge of the mythical resplendent quetzal , before your return to San José.
A complete and immersive self-drive tour, between volcanoes, rainforests, exuberant wildlife and local encounters — the very essence of Costa Rican Pura Vida .
The highlights
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Rafting along the Pacuare River
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Hiking in the heart of Corcovado National Park
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Snorkeling around Isla Caño
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Rafting
- Average duration/day: 2h30
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 4h30
Treetop adventure course
- Average duration/day: 1h30
Snorkeling
- Average duration/day: 2h
Management
Program
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Welcome to San Jose
- Transportation Minibus - 00h30 - 25km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
✈️ Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport .
Upon exiting the airport, an agent will greet you 🤝 and take care of your transfer to your hotel 🏨.
A private briefing in French 🇫🇷 is reserved for you.
You will go over the logistical details of your trip together 🗺️.
This will be the perfect opportunity to ask all your questions ❓ and start your adventure with complete peace of mind 🌟.
Day 1 -
Rafting along the Pacuare River
- Transportation Minibus - 02h30 - 106km
- Activity Rafting
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
🚗 Route towards the Siquirres region .
You will reach your lodge in the heart of nature by rafting on the Pacuare River 🚣♂️!
This river, ranked among the best in the world for rafting, offers lush vegetation 🌿, pleasant water 💦 and rapids suitable for all levels ⚡.
🍽️ Picnic lunch by the river, 100% nature atmosphere.
🏡 Arrive at the lodge in the early afternoon and settle into a rustic bungalow , with private bathroom and temperate water shower 🚿.
You will enjoy a unique experience in the heart of the tropical jungle 🌴. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacuare River 🌊 and the Turrialba volcano 🌋 on the horizon.
The lodge is committed to responsible tourism 🌱, with a reserve of more than 60 hectares of protected forest , and actively supports local families 👨👩👧👦.
🌿 Discover the surrounding nature , followed by dinner in this exceptional setting 🍽️✨.
Day 2 -
Turrialba
- Transportation Minibus - 00h30 - 23km
- Activity Rafting
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
🌅 Take advantage of the sunrise to explore the Ave Sol River Sanctuary reserve 🌿.
A stroll along the trails 🥾, a swim in the waterfalls 💦 of the property — waking up surrounded by tropical nature!
The reserve collaborates with many scientists 🔬: discover their conservation projects 🌱 and observe the images from the “Camera Trampa” 📸, cameras camouflaged in the jungle to discreetly follow wildlife 🐆 such as the jaguar , a discreet inhabitant of these places.
🍽️ After breakfast , set off for the next part of your rafting adventure on the Pacuare River 🚣♀️.
Between 3 and 4 hours of descent , with more intense rapids (levels II, III and IV) ⚡.
You will be surrounded by unspoiled nature 🌳, ideal for a swimming break and total immersion in this protected ecosystem 🐦.
🥙 Picnic lunch along the way.
Upon arrival in Siquirres , you can change your clothes 👕 before returning to your vehicle in the monitored parking lot 🅿️.
🚗 Pick up your rental car , then departure towards the small village of Turrialba 🏞️.
Day 3 -
Hiking in Mollejones
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
🌄 You will get up early , have breakfast at the hotel 🥐☕, then join the base camp in Turrialba at 6:45 am with your hiking equipment 🥾🎒 ( don't forget some snacks for the day 🍌🍫).
🚗 You can leave your vehicle in the camp parking lot before heading towards the trailhead .
🕖 If you do not have a car, a transfer from your hotel can be arranged before 7:00 am .
🍱 The Santubal community will prepare a packed lunch for you.
🚶♂️ The hike takes place on trails accessible to all levels.
🕚 Around 11:00 am , you will reach the village of San Joaquín , where a lunch break will allow you to regain strength 💪 before continuing the walk.
🌳 In the afternoon, the hike continues towards the community of Mollejones , passing through the forest and crossing the river using traditional suspension bridges 🌉, used by the inhabitants to transport their crops 🌾 and their livestock 🐄.
🏡 Upon your arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by the residents of Mollejones 🤝❤️.
Day 4 -
Departure for Sarapiqui
- Transportation Car - 01h45 - 100km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
🌅 As a team, you will dismantle the camp 🏕️ and pack your bags 🎒, but before leaving, an energizing breakfast 🥚🍞 prepared by the women of the community 👩🍳 will be waiting for you.
🚶♀️ You will then begin the hike towards Tres Equis , which will last approximately 5 hours ⏱️ through generous nature 🌿.
🍽️ Upon arrival at the end point of the trail , a delicious lunch will be served as a reward for these two days of adventure 🌟.
🚐 We will then drive you to Turrialba , where you can pick up your car 🚗 and continue your journey through Costa Rica
🌳 Nestled between lush forests and rushing rivers 🌊, Sarapiquí is a prime destination for lovers of biodiversity 🐦🦋 and adventure 💚.
Located in the northeast of the country , this green region is teeming with rich ecosystems , where tropical flora and fauna thrive in complete freedom 🌺🦜.
Day 5 -
Arenal Volcano
- Transportation Car - 01h30 - 80km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
In the morning, a guided hike within the OET La Selva reserve
The La Selva Biological Station covers an area of 15 km², primarily rainforest, where you can discover its exotic fauna: countless poison dart frogs, an endless variety of butterfly and leaf-eating ant species; even jaguars, pumas, monkeys, and other mammals. One of its main attractions is birdwatching, as many species migrate through the area. As for its flora, the biological station boasts over a thousand species of trees.
For 3 hours you will walk with your local guide along the trails to observe all the richness of the area
In the evening, a night hike for nature observation
The hike begins at 5:45 PM, just before nightfall, when the creatures are just starting to wake up. You'll hike along trails with a naturalist guide. You'll observe many nocturnal animals, including frogs, of which at least 28 species have been recorded in this reserve!
Day 6 -
In the morning, observe the sloths, and in the evening, relax at the thermal baths.
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
🌄 Early in the morning , you will set off on a guided tour of approximately 2 hours in search of sloths 🦥.
Accompanied by your naturalist guide 🧑🔬, you will explore several observation points through the forest trails 🌿.
Along the way, you will have the chance to observe monkeys 🐒, toucans 🦜, iguanas 🦎, colorful frogs 🐸 and dozens of species of tropical birds , each more amazing and colorful than the last 🐦🌺.
💧 Next, head to the EcoTermales thermal complex , accessible only by reservation 📅.
Access is limited to time slots of 5 to 6 hours , guaranteeing a calm and soothing atmosphere 🧘♀️.
The stone and wood buildings 🪵, the natural circulation system in the pools, and the subdued lighting create a discreet luxury ✨.
Immersed in the heart of tropical nature , the pools lined with pebbles and volcanic stones 🌋 make this place an authentic and exclusive refuge , ideal for a moment of deep relaxation 💆♂️🌌.
Day 7 -
Departure towards Monteverde
- Transportation Car - 04h - 108km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
🌫️ Perched high in Costa Rica , Monteverde is a nature sanctuary , where the mist dances through the tops of centuries-old trees 🌳.
Here, time seems suspended ⏳ in an ecosystem of unparalleled richness 🌺🦜, where each path reveals a world vibrant with life 🐒🦋🍃.
Day 8 -
Zip lines and suspension bridges
- Activity Treetop adventure course
- Duration of the activity 1h30
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The most famous and renowned, for him all superlatives apply. He is the greatest, the most impressive, but also the pioneer.
The Selvatura Park Canopy Tour is one of the safest adventures in Costa Rica. Specialized guides will begin by fitting visitors with the appropriate equipment before leading them across the park's 15 cables and 18 platforms. You can also opt for the "Tarzan Swing." The canopy tour is among the longest in the country and is the only one located in the heart of the rainforest. If you're looking for extreme adventure and breathtaking experiences, the Selvatura Park Canopy Tour is your best option. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 3 hours and is suitable for people between the ages of 4 and 99 (some restrictions may apply).
You'll continue your excursion across the suspension bridges, famous throughout the country. You'll have access to a hiking trail that follows eight suspension bridges in the heart of the Costa Rican jungle. Allow between 1 and 1.5 hours to cover the 3-kilometer trail. Thrills guaranteed, with breathtaking scenery—not to be missed under any circumstances!
Day 9 -
Departure for Carara
- Transportation Car - 03h - 102km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Located between the Pacific coast and the Central Valley, Carara National Park is a true natural gem where dry tropical forest meets rainforest. This unique transition creates an exceptionally rich ecosystem, making Carara a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife observers.
Day 10 -
Departure towards Dominical and Uvita
- Transportation Minibus - 02h30 - 135km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Nestled between lush jungle and crashing waves, Dominical is a small paradise for nature and surf lovers. Located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, this bohemian village has managed to preserve its relaxed and wild atmosphere, attracting both adventurers seeking thrills and travelers seeking serenity.
Day 11 -
Snorkeling at Isla Caño
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Caño Island is a prime snorkeling spot in Costa Rica. Your snorkeling tour begins after a hearty breakfast at your hotel, followed by a 45-minute boat ride. During the trip, you're likely to encounter spinner or bottlenose dolphins swimming alongside or in front of the boat. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you to the best spots for observing marine life. The waters around the island teem with activity, as numerous fish species, including angelfish, moorish idols, tetras, surgeonfish, snappers, barracudas, barberfish, parrotfish, damselfish, and a variety of eels, can be found hiding among the coral-covered rock formations. Turtles, rays, and the non-aggressive reef shark may also be spotted. After two dives at different snorkeling spots, you will return to the beach where lunch will be served.
Day 12 -
Hiking in Corcovado National Park
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
🌿 Discover the jungle on foot , encounter tapirs 🐗, macaws 🦜, waterfalls 💦 and wild swims 🏞️.
⏰ Departure around 7:30 am by boat 🚤 for an excursion in Corcovado National Park , on the trails of the San Pedrillo station .
👨🏫 Presentation of the ecosystem by your guide, followed by an immersive walk in the tropical jungle : dense and spectacular vegetation , home to unique biodiversity , including tapirs and scarlet macaws in the wild.
🥪 Picnic lunch at the station, surrounded by nature.
🌊 Then, continue to a hidden waterfall , where you can bathe in the crystal-clear waters of a natural pool , between the sea and a lush forest 🌴🌺.
🚤 Back to Uvita by boat , eyes full of images and heart full of emotions 🌞.
Day 13 -
Departure towards Copey from Dota
- Transportation Minibus - 03h - 119km
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Nestled in the heart of the Talamanca mountain range, Copey de Dota is a small, unspoiled mountain village where time seems to flow to the rhythm of the clouds and rural traditions. Ideal for an off-the-beaten-path getaway, this charming hamlet captivates with its authenticity, verdant valley landscapes, and close connection to nature.
This is where curious travelers will discover a region renowned for its high-altitude coffee, orchards, and exceptional biodiversity. The famous resplendent quetzal, an emblematic bird nesting in oak forests, is often spotted here, especially between March and May.
Whether you are a nature lover, passionate about rural culture or simply seeking tranquility, Copey de Dota is a charming stop, perfect for reconnecting with what truly matters.
Day 14 -
Departure
- Transportation Car - 02h30 - 90km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Return route to Juan Santamaría Airport.
Return your rental vehicle near the airport and then shuttle to the departures terminal for your return flight.
Day 15
Accommodation
- Double room
- Twin room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Double room
- Twin room
Access
Price details
The price includes
- 14 hotel nights with hotel taxes included.
- French-speaking welcome at the airport with private transfer to your hotel.
- Breakfasts (+ some meals) as indicated on the itinerary.
- Rental of a Suzuki Vitara 4x4 automatic vehicle with basic insurance, MIFI (WIFI) system, 2 drivers can be registered on the rental contract free of charge, unlimited mileage and roadside assistance from day 3 to day 15
- French-speaking support 24/7.
- The 2-day, 1-night package at Ave Sol River Sanctuary includes the services of certified bilingual (English-Spanish) rafting guides, full board, rafting equipment, and accommodation.
- 2 Days/1 Night hiking in Turrialba with full board, accommodation and local guide (ESP/ENG)
- Nighttime wildlife observation hike
- Observing sloths
- Thermal waters and dinner
- Zip lines and suspension bridges
- Hiking in Corcovado National Park
- Snorkeling in Isla del Caño
The price does not include
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal purchases
- Drinks and meals not mentioned in the "included" category.
- Gratuities at your discretion.
- Entrance fees to national parks not listed as included
- Vehicle excess waiver insurance.
- The essence.
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
The Vincent team
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