Luxury Costa Rica Beach Escape in the Gulf of Papagayo - 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in the Gulf of Papagayo

Welcome to Costa Rica! Touch down in the idyllic Gulf of Papagayo. Set in the far northwest, Papagayo is known for its rugged coastal scenery, film-worthy beaches, and high-end resorts. Your driver will be waiting to take you to the boutique Hotel Bosque del Mar, which lies steps from Playa Hermosa and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. 

Settle into your elegant garden or ocean-view suite set among exotic gardens. Highlights include chic lounges, natural wood decor, and private balconies; oceanfront suites look directly over the ocean and boast Jacuzzis on the terrace. Head to the beach to sink your toes into the sand or swim in the hotel's serene pool. 

In the late afternoon, enjoy an optional sunset catamaran tour. Board your private boat and glide through the ocean, admiring the beach-lined coast backed by thick forests. You'll stop in a remote bay for some swimming and snorkeling, then stroll on a deserted white-sand beach. The crew will serve drinks and snacks as you sail back to shore and admire the fiery sunset over the ocean.

Day 2: Private Ocean Kayak Tour

After breakfast, discover the wonders of the Gulf of Papagayo with a private ocean kayaking tour. Gear up and then, accompanied by a private guide, paddle onto the aquamarine water. As you go, marvel at views of the sweeping coastline and glimpse marine life, such as sea turtles, colorful fish, and dolphins leaping through the waves. 

The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please. Hit the soft sands of Playa Hermosa and cool off with an ocean swim. The waters here are calm with excellent visibility, perfect for snorkeling and diving to observe a treasure trove of marine life. Take a sunset beach stroll and then return to your hotel for a gourmet dinner at NIROMI Restaurant, which features an international menu infused with Costa Rican flavors.

Day 3: Free Day in the Gulf of Papagayo

Savor a free day to rest and explore the Gulf of Papagayo. If you're feeling adventurous, take a private hike in nearby Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Named for its mighty volcano, the park sprawls over 60 square miles (160 sq km) of diverse terrain, from waterfall-studded forests to hot springs, savannas, and bubbling mud pots.

Alternatively, birders and wildlife enthusiasts will love taking a private boat tour of Palo Verde National Park. As you drift down the Río Tempisque, you can spot everything from tiger herons and ospreys to caimans and white-faced capuchins. If you're craving sun-soaked relaxation, stretch out by the hotel pool with a cocktail or book a massage at the on-site spa, then head to Nya for sundowners.

Day 4: Ziplining, Canyoning & Tubing Adventure Day

Get your adrenaline pumping today with a private adventure tour at Hacienda Guachipelín, which lies next to Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja. Once you've geared up and met your expert guide, head off on a thrilling ziplining and canyoning trip through the nearby Río Blanco Canyon, a deep chasm carved by the river over millions of years. Soar through the air on seven zip lines, navigate a hanging bridge and two Tarzan swings, and then rappel 65 feet (20 m) into the canyon. 

Next, take to the water for some tubing on the Río Negro. You'll float down 3 miles (5 km) of Class II and III rapids, stopping in tranquil pools to absorb the scenery. Back on land, enjoy a horseback ride along scenic river trails before sinking into mineral-rich hot-spring pools beside the river. Bask in the healing waters heated by the Rincón de la Vieja volcano, and slather yourself with volcanic mud before returning to your hotel. 

Day 5: Depart the Gulf of Papagayo

Today your Costa Rica adventure comes to an end. Take a private transfer to the airport in Liberia in time for your homebound flight. Safe travels!