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The Real Costa Rica

Highlights

  • Travel deep into Costa Rica's wildest and least visited regions
  • Learn local traditions from families who have lived them for generations
  • Wake to birdsong in cloud forests, rainforests and wetlands
  • Finish your adventure beside the warm waters of the Pacific
From £3636 pp*
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13 Nights

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What you'll do

Overview

This immersive journey reveals a side of Costa Rica rarely found in guidebooks. Travelling from remote wetlands and rainforest communities to volcanic valleys, cloud forests and the Pacific coast, you'll experience the country's extraordinary biodiversity alongside genuine local culture and traditions.

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This immersive journey reveals a side of Costa Rica rarely found in guidebooks. Travelling from remote wetlands and rainforest communities to volcanic valleys, cloud forests and the Pacific coast, you'll experience the country's extraordinary biodiversity alongside genuine local culture and traditions.

Route Summary

Day 1: Alajuela
Day 2-4: Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Day 5-7: Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí
Day 8-9: Turrialba
Day 10-11: San Gerardo de Rivas
Day 12-13: Central Pacific Coast
Day 14: Departure

Your journey begins in the Central Valley before heading north to the remarkable wetlands of Caño Negro, one of Costa Rica’s most important wildlife refuges. Here, boat safaris, horseback rides and nocturnal forest walks reveal a world of birds, reptiles and hidden waterways far from the usual tourist routes.

From the wetlands, you’ll continue into the lush rainforests of Sarapiquí. This fertile region is renowned for cacao, tropical agriculture and conservation projects. You’ll walk through cacao plantations, plant trees as part of a reforestation initiative and spend time with local farming families who share their way of life.

The adventure continues to Turrialba, where rich agricultural landscapes meet ancient history. Explore Costa Rica’s largest archaeological site, learn traditional tortilla-making techniques and hike through the striking volcanic landscapes surrounding the Turrialba Volcano.

In the highlands of San Gerardo de Rivas, cloud forests, bird sanctuaries and rural traditions take centre stage. Discover extraordinary birdlife, visit nature reserves and experience traditional sugarcane production with local hosts.

Your final days are spent on the Pacific coast, where rainforest-covered mountains give way to long sandy beaches and spectacular sunsets. After exploring Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, you’ll have time to slow down, relax and reflect on a journey through the real Costa Rica.

Please Note

*From per person price based on travel for 2 people from May-Nov (exc July). For larger groups or solo travellers please enquire directly to Hello NITGB.

All accommodation will be reserved at time of booking. Depending on availability there may be changes to similar accommodation.

Arrival in Costa Rica

Upon arrival at San José International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by your driver and transferred to Alajuela. This relaxed first evening allows you to settle into Costa Rica at your own pace.

Your hotel is set within tropical gardens and provides a comfortable base before your adventure begins. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the historic centre of Alajuela or simply enjoy your surroundings.

Accommodation: Hotel Villa San Ignacio (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Journey to Caño Negro

This morning you’ll travel north towards one of Costa Rica’s most remote and biodiverse regions. As the landscape changes from fertile farmland to wetlands and forest, you’ll begin to appreciate how varied the country truly is.

Your base for the next three nights is Hacienda Caño Negro, a conservation-focused property bordering the Río Frío. Surrounded by wetlands, forests and wildlife-rich habitats, it offers an authentic introduction to northern Costa Rica.

Accommodation: Hacienda Caño Negro (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Explore Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge

Today is dedicated to exploring the extraordinary Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll discover waterways, lagoons and wetlands that support a remarkable variety of wildlife.

A nature-lover’s paradise, Caño Negro is home to many migratory and endangered fish, reptiles, birds and plants. It boasts a freshwater lagoon covering more than 800 hectares. It’s well worth venturing off the busy tourist trails to visit this fantastic refuge and its picturesque surrounding landscapes.

Keep watch for monkeys, reptiles, migratory birds and countless other species that thrive in this protected ecosystem. Far removed from Costa Rica’s busier destinations, this is nature at its most untouched.

Accommodation: Hacienda Caño Negro (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Rural Traditions and Nocturnal Wildlife

Spend the morning exploring Hacienda Caño Negro on horseback, travelling through agricultural land, forest trails and open countryside. Along the way, you’ll learn about traditional farming methods and participate in a conservation tree-planting initiative.

After dark, the rainforest reveals an entirely different side of itself. During a guided night walk, you’ll search for frogs, reptiles, insects and other nocturnal wildlife while listening to the sounds of the forest after sunset.

Accommodation: Hacienda Caño Negro (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Into the Rainforests of Sarapiquí

Leaving the wetlands behind, you’ll travel to the lush Sarapiquí region. Known for its biodiversity, conservation projects and agricultural heritage, this area offers a fascinating contrast to northern Costa Rica.

This afternoon you’ll join the Tirimbina Chocolate Tour, following the journey of cacao from rainforest plantation to finished chocolate. Along the way you’ll taste cacao at different stages and gain insight into one of Costa Rica’s most important crops.

Accommodation: El Lugar Costa Rica Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Conservation and Local Life

Today begins with a hands-on reforestation programme, where you’ll contribute to local conservation efforts by planting trees and learning about ecological restoration projects.

Later, visit a local organic farm to discover rural Costa Rican life. You’ll explore plantations, learn about sustainable farming methods and enjoy locally produced refreshments while meeting the people who work the land.

Accommodation: El Lugar Costa Rica Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

La Selva and Rural Flavours

Explore the renowned La Selva Biological Station, one of the country’s most important rainforest research centres. Walking through primary rainforest with your guide, you’ll learn about tropical ecosystems and the incredible diversity of species that call this region home.

Later, enjoy a traditional Palmitour experience where you’ll discover the cultivation of heart of palm before sitting down to sample locally prepared dishes showcasing this unique ingredient.

Accommodation: El Lugar Costa Rica Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Ancient Costa Rica

Today you travel south to Turrialba, one of Costa Rica’s most fertile and scenic regions. En route, you’ll visit Guayabo National Monument, the country’s largest archaeological site.

Exploring ancient stone structures, roads and aqueducts, you’ll gain insight into a civilisation that flourished here long before European arrival. Afterwards, continue through the beautiful valleys of Cartago Province to your lodge.

Accommodation: Guayabo Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Volcano Landscapes and Local Traditions

Begin the day in the kitchen of a local family, learning how to prepare traditional cheese tortillas using Turrialba’s famous regional cheese. It’s a warm and authentic cultural experience that offers insight into everyday life.

Later, hike through the striking Bosque Quemado landscape. Shaped by volcanic activity, the trail passes through dramatic scenery where blackened tree trunks stand alongside regenerating vegetation beneath views of Turrialba Volcano.

Accommodation: Guayabo Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Highlands and Hot Springs

Today’s journey takes you into the mountains of San Gerardo de Rivas. Along the way, stop at Hacienda Orosi to enjoy its mineral-rich hot springs set against beautiful volcanic scenery.

Relax in naturally heated pools before continuing into Costa Rica’s cooler highlands, where cloud forests, coffee farms and mountain rivers create a completely different atmosphere.

Accommodation: Rio Chirripó (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Birds, Nature and Sugarcane Traditions

This morning you’ll visit Los Cusingos Bird Sanctuary, once home to renowned ornithologist Alexander Skutch. Walking the reserve’s trails, you’ll search for colourful birdlife while learning about conservation in southern Costa Rica.

Later, experience a traditional trapiche tour, where sugarcane is processed using historic techniques. Demonstrations, tastings and local stories provide a fascinating glimpse into rural Costa Rican heritage.

Accommodation: Rio Chirripó (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Cloud Forest to Coast

Before heading to the Pacific, you’ll explore Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Dedicated to conservation and reforestation, the reserve protects pristine cloud forest filled with waterfalls, wildlife and mountain scenery.

After your visit, continue west to the Pacific coast where your beachfront accommodation awaits.

Accommodation: Alma del Pacifico Beach Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Relax on the Pacific Coast

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Spend time on the beach, swim in the Pacific Ocean, enjoy the peaceful surroundings or simply relax beneath the palms.

For those seeking more activity, an optional horseback riding excursion along Esterillos Beach is available.

Accommodation: Alma del Pacifico Beach Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Departure

After breakfast, you’ll transfer back to San José International Airport for your onward flight home.

You’ll leave with memories of remote wetlands, rainforest communities, volcanic landscapes and authentic encounters that reveal the true character of Costa Rica.


Meals: Breakfast

What's included

Included

  • 1 night in Alajuela – BB
  • 3 nights in Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge – BB
  • Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge guided visit (Private experience)
  • Horseback Riding & Agricultural Tour (Private experience)
  • Night Walk – Nocturnal Exploration on the Trails of Hacienda Caño Negro (Private experience)
  • 3 nights in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí – BB
  • Tirimbina Chocolate Tour (Shared experience)
  • Reforestation Programme (Shared experience)
  • Organic Farm Visit (Shared experience)
  • La Selva Biological Station guided visit (Shared experience)
  • Palmitour – Palmito and tasting tour (Shared experience)
  • 2 nights in Turrialba – BB
  • Guayabo National Monument guided visit (Private experience)
  • Tortilla Making Class (Private experience)
  • Bosque Quemado Volcano Hike (Private experience)
  • 2 nights in San Gerardo de Rivas – BB
  • Hacienda Orosi Hot Springs visit
  • Birdwatching and hiking at Los Cusingos Bird Refuge (Private experience)
  • Trapiche sugarcane tour (Private experience)
  • 2 nights on the Central Pacific Coast – BB
  • Cloudbridge Nature Reserve visit (Private experience)
  • Private Return Airport Transfers
  • All private transfers throughout
  • *BB - Breakfast included

Accommodation

Hotel Villa San Ignacio (or similar), Alajuela

Set within beautifully maintained tropical gardens just outside Alajuela, Hotel Villa San Ignacio provides a peaceful introduction to Costa Rica after your international flight. The property combines historic charm with modern comforts and offers a tranquil atmosphere away from the city, making it an ideal place to unwind before your journey begins.

Your Room is designed for a restful stay, featuring comfortable furnishings, air conditioning, private bathroom facilities and views of the surrounding gardens. The rooms offer a quiet retreat where you can relax and recharge before travelling deeper into Costa Rica.

Board Basis: BB

Hacienda Caño Negro (or similar), Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge

Surrounded by wetlands, forests and the wildlife-rich landscapes of northern Costa Rica, Hacienda Caño Negro offers a genuinely immersive nature experience. Built to blend into its surroundings, the property combines sustainable tourism with authentic rural hospitality, providing direct access to one of Costa Rica's most important wildlife regions.

You'll stay in the Agami House accommodation, a spacious room designed to maximise views of the surrounding natural environment. Natural materials and large windows help connect the indoor space with the wetlands and forests beyond, creating a peaceful base for wildlife watching and relaxation.

Board Basis: BB

El Lugar Costa Rica Resort (or similar), Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí

Nestled within lush rainforest surroundings, El Lugar Costa Rica Resort offers a comfortable and nature-focused stay in the heart of Sarapiquí. The property provides excellent access to the region's biodiversity while offering extensive grounds where wildlife can often be spotted throughout the day.

The room offers modern comforts, a private bathroom and a peaceful setting where you'll wake to the sounds of birds and rainforest wildlife.

Board Basis: BB

Guayabo Lodge (or similar), Turrialba

Perched in the hills overlooking the Turrialba Valley, Guayabo Lodge is renowned for its spectacular volcano and mountain views. The property offers a relaxed atmosphere and is particularly popular with nature lovers and birdwatchers seeking a peaceful countryside setting.

Your Room provides space and comfort, with large windows designed to take advantage of the surrounding scenery. Comfortable furnishings and private facilities create an inviting place to relax after exploring the archaeological sites and volcanic landscapes of the region.

Board Basis: BB

Rio Chirripó (or similar), San Gerardo de Rivas

Set amongst rivers, forests and mountain scenery in the Chirripó region, Rio Chirripó offers a peaceful escape in one of Costa Rica's most scenic highland locations. The property provides easy access to nature reserves, birdlife and hiking trails while maintaining a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

Your Cabin places you close to the sounds and scenery of the surrounding landscape. Designed to blend with its natural surroundings, the cabin offers comfortable accommodation, private facilities and a tranquil setting where nature remains the main attraction.

Board Basis: BB

Alma del Pacifico Beach Hotel & Spa (or similar), Central Pacific Coast

Located directly on the sands of Esterillos Beach, Alma del Pacifico Beach Hotel & Spa provides a relaxing finale to your Costa Rican adventure. Surrounded by tropical gardens and facing the Pacific Ocean, the property combines colourful local design with a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Designed for comfort and privacy, the room provides generous living space, private facilities and the opportunity to fall asleep to the sound of the Pacific waves just beyond your door.

Board Basis: BB

Your local host

Roberto

I was born and raised in Costa Rica and have lived here my entire life. And ever since I could, I’ve been travelling the world. Soon after I left school, I travelled around Costa Rica and discovered every single part of it! Although, we do have a fairly small country, there’s an insane amount to explore, and I’m still exploring it today, seeking out new hiking trails, new lagoons, different viewpoints, that take you to places you hadn’t even knew existed before, it really is fascinating.

Due that passion for discovery and exploring new places eating away at me, I started my immersive travel company with a friend over 18 years ago  and began having way too much fun helping people discover my wonderful count... Read All

I was born and raised in Costa Rica and have lived here my entire life. And ever since I could, I’ve been travelling the world. Soon after I left school, I travelled around Costa Rica and discovered every single part of it! Although, we do have a fairly small country, there’s an insane amount to explore, and I’m still exploring it today, seeking out new hiking trails, new lagoons, different viewpoints, that take you to places you hadn’t even knew existed before, it really is fascinating.

Due that passion for discovery and exploring new places eating away at me, I started my immersive travel company with a friend over 18 years ago  and began having way too much fun helping people discover my wonderful country and the countries around it!

We choose destinations that are not the same as all the other tour companies out there, those that are emerging or have something special about them, that most people don’t know about, we work with local companies that employ real locals and we choose hotels that are sustainable and have a positive impact on their environment.

We always ensure the people we work with are committed to sustainability, it’s our mission to spread the wealth of tourism, to make sure that the money from tourism is kept in the local communities so that the destination can be developed and conserved as a beautiful place to visit.

 

Roberto image

Location

Route Summary
Day 1: Alajuela
Day 2-4: Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Day 5-7: Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí
Day 8-9: Turrialba
Day 10-11: San Gerardo de Rivas
Day 12-13: Central Pacific Coast
Day 14: Departure

Your adventure begins in Alajuela before travelling north to the remote wetlands of Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge.

From there, you’ll continue to the rainforest region of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, followed by the fertile agricultural valleys of Turrialba and the cloud forest highlands of San Gerardo de Rivas.

The journey concludes on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast, where beachside relaxation provides the perfect ending before your return to San José International Airport.

All transfers and activities included within the itinerary are arranged for you, allowing you to focus entirely on the experience.

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