Costa Rica Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Costa Rica
Spend a day snorkeling and sunbathing in Cahuita National Park
Map of Explore Turrialba & Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast  - 10 Days
Explore Turrialba & Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast - 10 Days

Set off an adventurous journey from the Costa Rican city of Turrialba to the Caribbean coast, immersing yourself in the country's untouched beauty and local culture. Start with whitewater rafting on the Río Pacuare and rappeling down a canyon before transferring to Tortuguero. From there, navigate Tortuguero National Park's waterways on a boat tour and watch turtles nesting on the beach. Finish with plenty of free time to soak up the sea and a chocolate tour in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Meet sloths and other wildlife on this family-friendly Costa Rica Tour
Map of Family-Friendly Costa Rica Adventure: La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo - 7 Days
Family-Friendly Costa Rica Adventure: La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo - 7 Days

Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Costa Rica on this fun-filled, weeklong family tour. Start in La Fortuna, where you'll hike around the impressive Arenal volcano and take a refreshing dip in the pools of La Fortuna waterfall. Do some spelunking at Venado Caves, then continue to the pristine coastlines of the Gulf of Papagayo. Stroll white-sand beaches, meet sloths, pumas, and monkeys at an animal sanctuary, and end with a sunset sailing excursion around the gulf.

Bond as newly weds as you keep your eyes peeled for tropical species, like purple-throated hummingbirds on a hike to Laguna de Hule
Map of 10 Days in Costa Rica - 4 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Costa Rica - 4 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Given Costa Rica's size, you can fit jungle, aquatic, and urban adventures in your 10-day honeymoon. Outdoorsy couples will enjoy rafting the Río Pacuare and ziplining in Turrialba. Wildlife lovers can go bird-watching in Monteverde and spot monkeys in Corcovado National Park. Couples keen on cuisine can sample Costa Rican fare in the Central Market and make chocolate with a Bribri community. Those seeking a slower pace will appreciate a sunset cruise in Tamarindo and a hot springs soak in Arenal.

Enjoy romantic beach evenings on a weeklong honeymoon in Costa Rica
Map of 1 Week in Costa Rica - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Costa Rica - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

During a one-week honeymoon adventure in Costa Rica, you can experience pristine rainforest, secluded beaches, and volcanic landscapes. For a mix of all three, opt for a fast-paced trip featuring Tamarindo, Rincón de la Vieja, and Monteverde. Or, slow the pace but increase activities during stays in La Fortuna and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Wildlife-loving couples will find Drake Bay and Manuel Antonio the perfect fit, while those seeking a remote getaway embark on a road trip through Costa Rica's interior.

 Spot rare birds while on romantic cloud forest hikes in Costa Rica
Map of Romantic Costa Rica Road Trip: Mountains, Cloud Forests & Beaches - 10 Days
Romantic Costa Rica Road Trip: Mountains, Cloud Forests & Beaches - 10 Days

Perfect for active couples, this 10-day self-drive adventure in paradise gives you a glimpse of Costa Rica's lesser-explored gems. After a city tour of San José, drive deep into the Central Valley for mountain biking adventures, then head toward the Pacific, stopping for tours of coffee farms and birding in cloud forests. Everything culminates at the coast, where you'll go whale watching and enjoy relaxing beach time, gourmet culinary experiences, and catamaran adventures in Manuel Antonio National Park.

Amid the adventure and hiking, you'll find time for idyllic beach moments on your romantic getaway
Map of Romantic Escape to Central & Caribbean Costa Rica - 10 Days
Romantic Escape to Central & Caribbean Costa Rica - 10 Days

With four biosphere reserves, nature-loving couples couldn't pick a better spot for the perfect vacation than Costa Rica. This 10-day romantic adventure begins in the capital of San José's coolest neighborhoods, followed by rip-roaring fun on the Río Pacuare, one of the nation's best rivers for whitewater rafting. Then, you're off to golden Caribbean beaches on the north coast and Puerto Viejo, where you'll embark on rainforest hikes, go kayaking, meet local Indigenous cultures, and more.

Relax on the romantic white-sand beaches of Costa Rica's Pacific coast
Map of Romantic Getaway on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 10 Days
Romantic Getaway on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 10 Days

For romance mixed with unspoiled tropical beauty, it doesn't get better than Costa Rica's Pacific coast. This relaxed 10-day adventure starts with kayaking and snorkeling around the golden beaches of Sámara, then continues south for waterfall hikes at Manuel Antonio National Park. Then, after thrilling zipline rides and hiking in the cloud forests of Montverde, you'll visit the far south and end the journey with snorkeling at Isla del Caño and hiking the wilds of Corcovado National Park.

 Watch the sunset from the deck of your catamaran as you cruise around the coast
Map of Honeymoon Culture & Adventure Tour of Costa Rica - 10 Days
Honeymoon Culture & Adventure Tour of Costa Rica - 10 Days

Celebrate your newly wedded bliss on a 10-day tour of Costa Rica that highlights its natural beauty and cultural richness. On the northeast coast, you'll explore the waterways of Tortuguero on boat trips to spot monkeys, caiman, river otters, and other animals. Then, visit working farms for rustic meals with locals before heading to Arenal for waterfall hikes, hot springs, and cooking classes. The trip winds down on the Pacific beaches with snorkeling trips, gourmet meals, and romantic catamaran tours.

Venture into jungles and cloud forests as you make your way toward the Pacific coast
Map of Honeymoon Nature Expedition in Costa Rica - 10 Days
Honeymoon Nature Expedition in Costa Rica - 10 Days

Get off the beaten path to discover Costa Rica's unspoiled rainforests and secluded beaches on this romantic 10-day road trip. Begin with an indulgent food tour in the capital of San José, followed by zipline rides, canyoning, and coffee tours in the mountainous Central Valley. After a birding trek to spot the elusive quetzal in the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, it's off to the central coast for horseback riding, kayaking, and waterfall hikes around the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Stroll on the beaches of Costa Rica in between outdoor adventures
Map of Romantic Beach & Cloud Forest Escape in Costa Rica - 7 Days
Romantic Beach & Cloud Forest Escape in Costa Rica - 7 Days

Head to the beaches and cloud forests of northern Costa Rica for a week of outdoor adventures and romantic experiences. Begin in the surf haven of Tamarindo, where you'll enjoy sailing trips up and down the famed Gold Coast. Then turn inland, where powder-blue rivers and misty cloud forests beckon you on thrilling zipline tours and nature hikes. Round out this memorable journey with tasty outings to discover the country's famous coffee and chocolate and an intimate dinner in the forest canopy.

 Relax in hot springs and hike to waterfalls on this road trip through Costa Rica's off-the-beaten-path gems
Map of Romantic Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip Through Costa Rica - 7 Days
Romantic Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip Through Costa Rica - 7 Days

Get behind the wheel and venture off the tourist trail in a country that exudes romance and adventure: Costa Rica. After marveling at golden artifacts in the capital of San José, you'll journey deep into the jungles of Sarapiquí for nature hikes. Then, spend a day on a friendly farm where a decadent chocolate tasting awaits. Then, combine relaxing in hot springs with thrilling inner tube rides in Rincón de la Vieja, a national park right out of a fairy tale.

Spot playful dolphins on your catamaran tour in Manuel Antonio
Map of Costa Rica Honeymoon for Wildlife Lovers - 7 Days
Costa Rica Honeymoon for Wildlife Lovers - 7 Days

Embark on the honeymoon of a lifetime as you explore the great natural menagerie that is Costa Rica. This adventure will take you up and down the country's Pacific coast, where you'll swim with exotic marine life at Isla del Caño, go on waterfall hikes, and perhaps glimpse the elusive jaguar in Corcovado National Park. Then, head up to the powdery white-sand beaches at Manuel Antonio, where, between swimming and sunset catamaran rides, there will be ample time for luxurious spa treatments.

 Take in the beauty of Costa Rica on this seven-day honeymoon
Map of Love & Adventure in Costa Rica: Tamarindo, Rincón de la Vieja & Monteverde - 7 Days
Love & Adventure in Costa Rica: Tamarindo, Rincón de la Vieja & Monteverde - 7 Days

This seven-day getaway in Costa Rica is ideal for newlyweds searching for an equal parts romantic and adventurous honeymoon. Start on the Pacific beaches of Tamarindo with a sunset catamaran cruise and snorkeling around the Catalina Islands, then venture inland to the volcanoes and hot springs of Rincón de la Vieja. End your week among the cloud forests of Monteverde, ziplining through the canopy and spotting nocturnal creatures on a night hike.

Indulge in the romance of Costa Rica on this seven-day honeymoon
Map of Cloud Forests to the Caribbean: A Costa Rica Honeymoon - 7 Days
Cloud Forests to the Caribbean: A Costa Rica Honeymoon - 7 Days

Combine cloud forest adventures with dreamy Caribbean beaches on this romantic getaway to Costa Rica. It starts in the lush mountains of La Fortuna, where you'll soak in natural hot springs and follow hanging bridges through the forest canopy. Then, it's off to the Caribbean beaches of Puerto Viejo, where you'll master Afro-Caribbean flavors in a cooking class, spot wildlife in Cahuita National Park, learn how to make chocolate with an Indigenous family, and take a dip in the Río Catarata Waterfall.

Admire the beachfront views from your private infinity pool (photo courtesy of Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas)
Map of 10 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Costa Rica is an excellent amount of time to discover the country's pristine landscapes while staying in luxury accommodations and indulging. Enjoy the freedom a rental car provides on a road trip adventure stretching from Poás to Manuel Antonio, or take the trail less traveled on a journey featuring the Pacific coast's national parks. Alternatively, consider an activity-filled itinerary featuring Tortuguero, Arenal, and Papagayo, or delight in a bird-watching trip through the country's premier ecolodges.

 Explore the untamed coast of the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado
Map of Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 10 Days
Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 10 Days

Experience Costa Rica's far-flung wonders, traveling in comfort and style as you go. This 10-day luxury excursion kicks off in thrilling style with adventure sports, waterfall hikes, and birding in the hidden gem of Bajos del Toro. Continue to the Pacific coast and enjoy the unspoiled beaches at Esterillos Este, tour the mangroves of Sierpe, and finish with nature hikes on the rugged Osa Peninsula.

Go canyoning off cliffs and waterfalls in Turrialba
Map of Pura Vida Luxury Adventure in Costa Rica: Turrialba, Arenal & Tamarindo - 10 Days
Pura Vida Luxury Adventure in Costa Rica: Turrialba, Arenal & Tamarindo - 10 Days

Mix luxury, adventure sports, nature tours, surfing, and more over 10 days in the eco-wonderland of Costa Rica. The thrills start right away with rafting adventures in Turrialba, followed by waterfall visits, zipline rides, and hiking the dried lava fields at the iconic Arenal volcano. Continue north to the Nicoya Peninsula and the surf town of Tamarindo, where you'll catch a few waves, go kayaking, and snorkel in the bay.

Spot the great green macaw in the Maquenque Wildlife Refuge on this 10-day luxury tour
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Birding Getaway - 10 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Birding Getaway - 10 Days

Spot Costa Rica's most exotic avians on this luxury, 10-day adventure. The trip is packed with private bird-watching tours, hikes, and boat trips where you'll join naturalists to glimpse everything from toucans to resplendent quetzals and hummingbirds. Stay at the country's best birding lodges, nestled among the rainforests of San Gerardo de Dota, Turrialba, Sarapiquí, and Boca Tapada, where colorful avian species flutter among the treetops.

End your trip on the Gulf of Papagayo at Casa Chameleon (photo courtesy of Casa Chameleon)
Map of Coast-to-Coast Luxury in Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Arenal & Papagayo - 10 Days
Coast-to-Coast Luxury in Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Arenal & Papagayo - 10 Days

This 10-day journey from one side of Costa Rica to the other delivers highlight tours and off-the-beaten-path adventures without sacrificing luxury. Witness nesting sea turtles in Tortuguero National Park before heading to Arenal for waterfall visits, zipline tours, and hiking around the famous volcano. Then, continue to the dazzling Gulf of Papagayo for Pacific coast adventures, including snorkeling, kayaking, and more.

Settle into the 5-star Arenas del Mar Resort for views over Manuel Antonio (photo courtesy of Arenas del Mar)
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Road Trip Highlights - 10 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Road Trip Highlights - 10 Days

Travel from rainforests to volcanoes, cloud forests, and beaches on this luxury 10-day road trip through Costa Rica. The tour is packed with scenic drives and 5-star lodges, as well as exclusive treetop dining experiences and lavish spa sessions. Along the way, you'll spot wildlife, cross dizzying suspension bridges, and peer into volcanic craters during private hikes through lush national parks in Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Poás.

Relish three nights in Uvita on the Osa Peninsula (photo courtesy of Kura Boutique Hotel)
Map of 2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Costa Rica is an excellent amount of time to delve into the country's incredible mix of luxury, adventure, and pristine nature. On a highlights tour, hike, bike, cruise, and snorkel your way from the Caribbean to the Pacific coast. Or, opt to include time in Turrialba's cloud forests and Uvita's unspoiled beaches to get off the main tourist trail. Wildlife enthusiasts who love their creature comforts can hop between luxury lodges while birders let private guides lead the way in search of exotic birds.

Go off the beaten path and discover Guanacaste trees in Rincon de la Vieja
Map of 5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Costa Rica is the right amount of time to focus on an off-the-beaten-path region. Travelers eager to experience the unspoiled landscapes of the Caribbean Coast should set their sights on Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, while those seeking a mix of beach time and culinary delights will find Manuel Antonio National Park the perfect fit. Other options include an activity-packed trip in Rincón de La Vieja National Park or a wildlife adventure on the lesser-visited Osa Peninsula.

Spot Costa Rican wildlife like the tamandua on rainforest hikes
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Wildlife Tour - 14 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Wildlife Tour - 14 Days

Encounter Costa Rica's extraordinary animals on this luxury two-week wildlife adventure. Begin in Tortuguero to spot manatees and caimans by boat. Head inland for private rainforest hikes and bird-watching trips in Sarapiquí and Boca Tapada, and end in Corcovado to glimpse biodiverse marine life while snorkeling at Isla del Caño. Along the way, you'll settle into a succession of luxury hotels and exclusive wildlife lodges, chosen for their unique locations and wildlife-watching opportunities.

Spot diverse wildlife like spider monkeys in multiple national parks including Manuel Antonio
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Discovery: Forests, National Parks & Beaches - 14 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Discovery: Forests, National Parks & Beaches - 14 Days

This memorable two-week adventure in Costa Rica will take you both on and off the tourist trail as you explore the country's most spectacular national parks and nature reserves. See the highlights of San José, then venture south to the rugged paradise of Corcovado. After hiking, surfing, and boat trips along the southern coast, you'll enjoy the beaches of Manuel Antonio, followed by the cloud forests of Monteverde, finishing with more outdoor adventures in the shadow of the Arenal volcano.

See spectacular Costa Rican birds such as scarlet macaws
Map of Luxury Birding Adventure in Costa Rica - 14 Days
Luxury Birding Adventure in Costa Rica - 14 Days

Encounter a kaleidoscope of exotic bird species on this luxury, two-week Costa Rica tour. The self-drive adventure takes you from the Central Valley's rainforests to the Pacific coast, with stays in chic eco-lodges along the way. You'll enjoy private bird-watching tours, hikes, and boat trips, spotting everything from hummingbirds to toucans and endangered scarlet macaws. Other wildlife highlights include bat tours, a crocodile safari, and visiting a sloth sanctuary.

Explore the waterways of Tortuguero National Park
Map of Exotic Adventures on Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast - 5 Days
Exotic Adventures on Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast - 5 Days

Escape to the pristine paradise of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast with this itinerary of rich wildlife experiences, lively cooking classes, and thrilling activities on water and land. This memorable tour may only last five days, but it packs in a whole host of nature excursions and outdoor adventures as you journey between San José, Tortuguero, and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Hike through jungles to hidden waterfalls and lagoons in Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Map of  Discover Costa Rica's Rincón de La Vieja National Park - 5 Days
Discover Costa Rica's Rincón de La Vieja National Park - 5 Days

Explore Costa Rica's Guanacaste region on this short but eventful self-drive itinerary through Rincón de la Vieja National Park. From an entire day of chasing waterfalls to horseback riding with Costa Rican cowboys, you'll understand the "pura vida" lifestyle in full by the end of this five-day tour. Soak away the day's hike in one of 10 hot springs, observe wildlife on a cruise through an endangered forest, and spot volcanoes slumbering in the distance.

Check into your casita for two indulgent nights (photo courtesy of Río Celeste Hideaway Resort)
Map of 5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Spend five days in luxury on a trip to Costa Rica and base yourself in one or two locations to soak up the country's lush landscapes and pristine beaches. Travelers seeking a mix of the two will find Vara Blanca and Manuel Antonio the ideal bases, while thrill seekers with a taste for creature comforts should opt for a rafting trip on the Río Pacuare. If you're seeking a lavish beach getaway, both Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and the Gulf of Papagayo provide the perfect setting.

Explore the Caribbean coast near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Map of Quick Road Trip to Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast & Turrialba Valley - 5 Days
Quick Road Trip to Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast & Turrialba Valley - 5 Days

Explore an intriguing slice of Costa Rica on this compact self-drive tour that takes you from the bustling streets of San José to the untamed rainforests and coastal wonders of the Caribbean coast. In just five days, you'll taste Afro-Caribbean cuisine as you learn to cook local dishes in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, traverse the lush landscapes of Cahuita National Park, make a thrilling choice between whitewater rafting or canyoning in the Turrialba Valley, and hike through a jungle full of wildlife at night.

The shimmering waters and white sands of Manuel Antonio National Park
Map of Costa Rican Nature Adventure in Manuel Antonio - 5 Days
Costa Rican Nature Adventure in Manuel Antonio - 5 Days

Experience some of Costa Rica's most pristine beaches and diverse wildlife with this immersive five-day trip that focuses on one spectacular location. You'll start and end in the city of San José but spend most of your time in the idyllic natural expanse of Manuel Antonio National Park, enjoying rainforest hikes, monkey meetings, and of course, the soft, white sands of the Pacific coast.

See remarkable wildlife, including spider monkeys, on this quick jaunt to Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula
Map of Wildlife Adventure on Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula - 5 Days
Wildlife Adventure on Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula - 5 Days

Wildlife lovers will thrive on this quick trip around Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. Five days may not seem like a lot, but this action-packed itinerary allows you to see the main highlights of the region. Hike through the world-renowned Corcovado National Park, snorkel among colorful fish, and traverse a mangrove forest by boat—with over half of all wildlife species in the country calling the peninsula home, you're sure to see some spectacular flora and fauna on each outing.

Time for some whitewater fun on the Río Pacuare on a Costa Rica luxury adventure
Map of Luxury Rafting Adventure in Costa Rica - 5 Days
Luxury Rafting Adventure in Costa Rica - 5 Days

Combine luxury and adventure over five memorable days as you brave the rapids of Costa Rica's most famous river, the Pacuare. Located in the Central Valley, you'll spend some thrilling days navigating dozens of Class II-IV rapids with a private guide, alternating between whitewater fun and leisurely floating amid forest scenery. But that's not all—you'll also enjoy night hikes in the jungle and tours to sample Costa Rica's famous chocolate.

Bond with the family as you explore Costa Rica's many beaches
Map of 2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Costa Rica, you and your family can embark on a quick-paced tour featuring stays in Tamarindo, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Drake Bay. Or, opt for a slower-paced trip with plenty of downtime between new activities and cultural excursions. Wildlife-loving families will find La Fortuna and Sámara the ideal spots to be based, while families with adrenaline-loving kids can zipline, surf, kayak, and horseback ride their way around the country.

Relax amid the sounds of the Costa Rican jungle in your private wooden cabin (photo courtesy of Amor Arenal)
Map of 1 Week in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Costa Rica on a luxury itinerary, you can get to know the country's captivating volcanic landscapes, cloud forests, and beaches on a highlights tour. Or, pair adrenaline-pumping activities with pampered afternoons while splitting your time between Turrialba and Puerto Viejo. Those looking for a romantic getaway will find the Gulf of Papagayo provides the perfect escape. Alternatively, if you prefer unpacking your bags for a more extended stay, opt for a trip featuring the Osa Peninsula.

Discover the unspoiled Pacific beaches of Marino Ballena National Park
Map of Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury in Costa Rica: Puerto Viejo to Jacó - 14 Days
Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury in Costa Rica: Puerto Viejo to Jacó - 14 Days

Mix luxury and adventure on this two-week coast-to-coast road trip around Costa Rica. Start with the Creole culture and Caribbean beaches of Puerto Viejo, then venture into the cloud forests of the Turrialba region. Continue to the Pacific to discover marine life at Uvita before hitting the beaches around Manuel Antonio. An itinerary of private excursions awaits in each locale—from surfing, snorkeling, and canyoning experiences to Indigenous cultural workshops and local farm tours.

Escape to the beaches of Manuel Antonio at the Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Highlights: Caribbean to Pacific - 14 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Highlights: Caribbean to Pacific - 14 Days

Experience Costa Rica's highlights on this luxurious coast-to-coast tour. You'll travel from sun-soaked Caribbean shores to volcano-spotted highlands and mystical cloud forests, ending on the biodiverse Pacific coast. Along the way, take private trekking and snorkeling tours of four wildlife-filled national parks and stay in 5-star resorts, indulging in everything from luxury catamaran cruises to hot spring soaks, rainforest spa sessions, and local cooking classes.

Wind down your two-week family vacation with swimming and boat trips off the beaches of Manuel Antonio
Map of Ultimate Costa Rica Family Tour - 14 Days
Ultimate Costa Rica Family Tour - 14 Days

Suitable for even the youngest family members, this two-week trip showcases the best of Costa Rica. Set off from San José for Arenal Volcano National Park. Discover waterfalls, go rafting, and get up close to jungle creatures on kid-friendly nature walks. Next up, it's the hanging bridges of Monteverde's Cloud Forest, followed by hands-on coffee and chocolate tours. Round it all off with a few days of beach time, boating, and easy-paced hiking at Manuel Antonio before returning to the capital.

Experience unforgettable memories at Corcovado National Park
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Eco-Escape to Corcovado National Park - 7 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Eco-Escape to Corcovado National Park - 7 Days

Explore one of Costa Rica's most biodiverse regions on this luxury eco-escape to Corcovado National Park. The weeklong adventure begins and ends in the lively capital, San José, and includes a stay at an all-inclusive oceanfront resort in the Osa Peninsula's pristine rainforest. Spend your days trekking through Corcovado National Park to spot exotic wildlife and take a private boat trip to Caño Island Biological Reserve, where you'll snorkel among rainbow-hued marine creatures.

 Take an active adventure in Costa Rica with your family
Map of Active Family Getaway to Costa Rica: Cloud Forests, Beaches, Waterfalls & Wildlife - 14 Days
Active Family Getaway to Costa Rica: Cloud Forests, Beaches, Waterfalls & Wildlife - 14 Days

Families with tweens and teens will love this active 14-day adventure that starts on the coasts of Tamarindo, where you'll hike to electric-blue waterfalls and see nesting sea turtles. Then, it's off to Monteverde for horseback rides through lush cloud forests and a visit to a sloth sanctuary. Play on the beaches of Manuel Antonio, kayak through the mangroves of Isla Damas, and snorkel at Drake Bay's Isla del Caño before ending in the capital city of San José to see its colorful streets, lively markets, and historic sights.

Take a family surfing lesson on Playa Tamarindo
Map of Costa Rica Adventure for Active Families: Rainforests, Rivers & Beaches - 14 Days
Costa Rica Adventure for Active Families: Rainforests, Rivers & Beaches - 14 Days

Tick off your family's adrenaline-focused bucket list on this two-week Costa Rica trip that offers plenty of outdoor-oriented thrills. Geared toward active families with older kids and teens, you'll start your adventure in Puerto Viejo on the southeast Caribbean coast, whitewater rafting and kayaking on two of the area's most scenic rivers. Next, you'll zipline in the Arenal Volcano National Park and see the rainforests of Rincón de la Vieja by horseback before snorkeling and surfing on Talamanca's famous sands.

 Say hello to families of curious capuchins in Costa Rica
Map of Costa Rica's Mountains, Waterfalls, Wildlife & Beaches for Families - 14 Days
Costa Rica's Mountains, Waterfalls, Wildlife & Beaches for Families - 14 Days

Perfect for families with school-aged kids, this adventurous two-wee Costa Rican tour starts in dynamic San José, where you'll tour the Jade Museum and other cultural landmarks. Then, it's off to the coast for nature walks and wildlife sightings in Manuel Antonio National Park. Take a night trek through cloud forests, tour a working coffee farm in Monteverde, play on the white-sand beaches of Sámara, and end with the aqua-blue waterfalls, volcanoes, and hot springs of Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

Sunset over the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Map of Luxury Costa Rica National Parks & Cloud Forests - 7 Days
Luxury Costa Rica National Parks & Cloud Forests - 7 Days

Discover Costa Rica's show-stopping national parks and cloud forests on this weeklong luxury tour. You'll chase waterfalls and glimpse exotic wildlife at La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park, then explore volcanic landscapes in Arenal Volcano and Tenorio Volcano National Parks. Finally, ascend to Monteverde's famous cloud forest, where you'll zipline through the canopies and stay in a luxe mountain lodge.

See magnificent wildlife on a tree-climbing adventure in Arenal Volcano National Park
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Rainforest Escape: Río Celeste & Arenal - 5 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Rainforest Escape: Río Celeste & Arenal - 5 Days

Immerse yourself in Costa Rica's pristine rainforests on this luxury, five-day nature escape. The trip begins on the banks of the Río Celeste, where you'll take a private trek through the wildlife-rich Tenorio Volcano National Park to its famous topaz waterfall. Continue to volcano-studded Arenal for a tree-climbing adventure and a 5-star rainforest villa complete with a hot spring plunge pool and gourmet dining experience.

 A boy swinging from a palm tree on one of Costa Rica's beaches
Map of Family Exploration of Costa Rica: Wildlife & Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & Sámara - 14 Days
Family Exploration of Costa Rica: Wildlife & Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & Sámara - 14 Days

Embark on a captivating family adventure to Costa Rica with this 14-day itinerary that blends outdoor thrills and wildlife encounters with a relaxed, kid-friendly pace. Trek volcanoes, relax in hot springs, and master local cooking in Arenal. Zoom through Monteverde's rainforest treetops, meet nocturnal jungle inhabitants, and finish in style with four days of sun, surf, and snorkeling in Sámara's idyllic coastal haven.

 Visit the beaches of Costa Rica with your family
Map of Family Fun in Costa Rica: Culture, Wildlife & Natural Wonders - 14 Days
Family Fun in Costa Rica: Culture, Wildlife & Natural Wonders - 14 Days

Families with very little ones will find this 14-day Costa Rican tour fun and accommodating for all ages! Start in vibrant San José, where you'll explore city markets and stroll through Parque Central. Then, it's off to La Fortuna and Arenal for volcano walks, visits with sloths, and a family cooking class. Traverse hanging bridges in the cloud forests of Monteverde, wander through colorful butterfly gardens, and end with swimming, snorkeling, and sunning on the beaches of Manuel Antonio.

Climb into the canopy of the Monteverde Cloud Forest
Map of Luxury Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Beaches - 7 Days
Luxury Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Beaches - 7 Days

Experience Costa Rica's diverse landscapes in style on this weeklong luxury tour. You'll stay in 5-star resorts and enjoy private hikes through the showstopping Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal Volcano National Park, home to hot springs, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks. Sample Costa Rican treats on an exclusive coffee and chocolate tour, then head west to the rugged Guanacaste coast for a lavish beach-hopping tour and a dose of sun-soaked relaxation.

Explore the rainforests and beaches of Costa Rica
Map of Luxury Costa Rica from Rainforest to Beach: Turrialba & Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - 7 Days
Luxury Costa Rica from Rainforest to Beach: Turrialba & Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - 7 Days

Explore Costa Rica's lush rainforests and Caribbean beaches on this weeklong luxury tour. Head straight for the natural wonders of Turrialba, where you'll stay at a boutique forest hotel and take a thrilling whitewater rafting trip on the Río Pacuare. Next, escape to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast, where honey-hued beaches and rainforest spa sessions await. Adventures include snorkeling and hiking in Cahuita National Park and taking an authentic Afro-Caribbean cooking class.

Admire the views over Costa Rica's Gulf of Papagayo from your luxury accommodations
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Romantic Escape: Arenal & Gulf of Papagayo - 7 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Romantic Escape: Arenal & Gulf of Papagayo - 7 Days

Enjoy a romantic Costa Rican getaway with this luxurious seven-day itinerary. Travel from the rainforests of Arenal to the beach-studded Gulf of Papagayo, staying in 5-star secluded cabins and private pool villas. Along the way, you'll explore pristine national parks with your beloved on foot and horseback, discovering crashing waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and healing hot springs. Highlights include couples' spa sessions, sunset catamaran cruises, and private surfing lessons.

Get to know the beaches of Manuel Antonio on a luxury getaway
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Landscapes & Wildlife: Vara Blanca & Manuel Antonio - 5 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Landscapes & Wildlife: Vara Blanca & Manuel Antonio - 5 Days

Get a taste of Costa Rica's exotic landscapes and wildlife on this luxury five-day tour. Start in the lush Central Valley, where you'll stay at a lavish rainforest lodge in La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park, home to rescued wildlife and crashing waterfalls. Hike to the moon-like crater of the Poás volcano before escaping to Manuel Antonio to bask on soft-sand beaches, take a deep-sea fishing trip, and spot native wildlife on a private national park hike.

Enjoy unspoiled beaches on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast
Map of Luxury Costa Rica Beach Break: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - 5 Days
Luxury Costa Rica Beach Break: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - 5 Days

Enjoy a luxury five-day beach break on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. Head straight to vibrant Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and check into a 5-star seafront hotel where white-sand beaches and rainforest spa sessions await. You'll get a taste of the local culture during a private chocolate-making session with the Indigenous Bribri community, then explore the natural delights of Cahuita National Park on exclusive kayaking and snorkeling tours.

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.