Packages By Interest | Top 10 Vacations | Best Destinations | Why Choose Us? | Custom Trip

The Top 10 Costa Rica Vacation Packages for 2024 & 2025

Looking for the perfect honeymoon setting? Or a family vacation full of adventure? Maybe you’re flying solo and just want to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. These hand-picked packages, complete with transportation, hold the key to a world like no other, full of wildlife, spectacular beauty, and exciting adventures. All are 100% customizable so you can add your personal touch to make it the vacation you’ve always dreamed about. The choice is yours, from lavish luxury to rustic ecolodges, and everything in between!

All of our amazing vacations can be customized with upgraded or downgraded hotels to match your interests and budget!

Pure Life Adventure
7 days (customizable)
destinations: Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio Beach
tags: light adventure & nature
category: affordable value: $$ and add a free night from now through Dec 14!
category: affordable deluxe: $$$ and add a free night from now through Dec 14!
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling

The perfect vacation for first-time visitors to Costa Rica! Pure Life Adventure presents an awesome opportunity to pick your adventure preferences while visiting the Arenal Volcano area, complete with river and rainforest activities, plus onsite hot springs at your resort! Then you’ll be off to the Pacific coast to go beachcombing along the white sandy shores of Manuel Antonio Beach. This is an incredibly affordable package that will take you to two of the top three destinations in Costa Rica. And, if you want, you can choose to extend your itinerary to add the third most popular tourist area, the Monteverde Cloud Forest (Pure Life Adventure + Monteverde)! You’ll enjoy great hotels, incredible tours, beautiful beaches, and soothing hot springs on this wonderful 7-day Pura Vida adventure combo that includes a couple of days at the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Paradise Discovered Inclusive Adventure
7 days (customizable)
destinations: Arenal Volcano & Conchal Beach
tags: light adventure, nature, and some all-inclusive
category: affordable value: $$
category: deluxe: $$$
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*
set vacation or custom? This trip can be customized in many ways, including upgraded or downgraded hotels to match your budget!

Paradise Discovered delivers an amazing 7-day getaway beginning at Arenal Volcano for hot springs, adventure activities, and nature exploring, before transporting you to an all-inclusive luxury beach resort, the Westin Playa Conchal, overlooking a gorgeous soft shell beach with turquoise waters and swaying palm trees.

All-Inclusive Fun in the Sun
7 days (customizable)
destinations: Conchal Beach
tags: light adventure & all-inclusive
from $$$
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

All-Inclusive Fun in the Sun takes you to the luxurious all-inclusive Westin Playa Conchal Resort on one of Guanacaste’s most beautiful beaches for a weeklong seaside escape. AND you’ll enjoy snorkeling the underwater world while on a catamaran cruise plus going for a thrilling zipline experience within Costa Rica’s lush tropical rainforests. This 7-day itinerary can be customized as a family vacation experience by choosing to stay in the resort’s family section, or can as easily turn into a romantic destination vacation simply by selecting the exclusive adults-only section of the resort! Both offer easy access to the beach and a host of onsite hotel amenities.

Discover Costa Rica
9 days (customizable)
destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest & Conchal Beach
tags: light adventure, nature, and some all-inclusive
category: affordable value: $$ and add a free night for May, June, September, & October dates!
category: affordable deluxe: $$$ and add a free night for September & October dates!
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

Discover Costa Rica delights travelers seeking to explore the highlights of Costa Rica by visiting 3 strikingly different areas, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the beautiful pink beach at Playa Conchal. Along the way, you’ll have a choice of exciting activities that can turn it into an action-packed adventure, make it an enlightening safari, or simply choose to enjoy a perfect balance of both. This 9-day vacation combination culminates with some restful ME TIME at a luxurious all-inclusive beach resort.

Rainforest Volcano and Beaches
7 days (customizable)
destinations: Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio Beach
tags: light adventure and nature – great for families!
category: affordable value: $$ and add a free night from now through Dec 14!
category: deluxe: $$$$
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

Rainforest Volcano Beaches will have you viewing wildlife from the forest floor to treetops and along the jungle-studded Pacific coastline. Perfect for families, a few days at Arenal Volcano include options for zip-lining or nature hikes, and the beach area of Manuel Antonio never fails to excite visitors with the abundant wildlife found in its national park. Just as the name implies, this 7-day family getaway offers a little bit of everything and includes wonderful resorts, hot springs, fun in the jungle, beach time, and all of the transportation needed to pull it together into one amazing trip your family will remember for years to come!

Smooth Tropics Inclusive Adventure
7 days (customizable)
destinations: Arenal Volcano & Flamingo Beach
tags: light adventure, nature, and some all-inclusive
category: affordable value $$$
category: affordable deluxe $$$
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

A longtime favorite, the 7-day Smooth Tropics Inclusive Adventure sends you first to the rainforest and river area surrounding Arenal Volcano, then over to one of Guanacaste’s beautiful beaches at Playa Flamingo. From hot springs to cool lagoon, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance of ecolodge jungle adventures and vegging out at the beach pampered by an all-inclusive resort.

Eco-Xtreme Adrenaline
10 days (customizable)
destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, & Manuel Antonio Beach
tags: extreme adventure
category: affordable value: $$ and add 2 free nights for May, June, September, & October dates OR add 1 free night for all dates now through Dec 14, 2024!
category: affordable deluxe: $$$ and add a free night for September & October dates!
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

Extremely popular, the 10-day Eco-Xtreme Adrenaline will have your heart pumping as you race from one ultimate sports challenge to another. Picture: Whitewater Rafting, Canyoning, Waterfall Rappelling, Zip-lining, ATVing, and Surfing! And it all rocks at Costa Rica’s top 3 adventure destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio Beach. Bring your Go-Pro!

Costa Rica Safari
9 days (customizable)
destinations: San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal Volcano & Monteverde Cloud Forest
tags: nature & light adventure
from $$$ add a free night for September & October dates!
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

The Costa Rica Safari will carry you from the remote region of Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast, only accessible by boat, to the jungles of Arenal Volcano, including Tabacon Hot Springs. Then to top it off you’ll visit the amazing Monteverde Cloud Forest. Your guides will take you exploring the canals by river safari, the rainforest by hanging bridges, and on a leisurely informative nature hike in the cloud forest. You’re sure to see plenty of wildlife on this 10-day eco-adventure. A nature lover’s dream!

South Pacific Eco-Xtreme
9 days (customizable)
destinations: Savegre Valley, Southern Mountains & Costa Ballena Beaches
tags: off-the-beaten-path, extreme adventure & nature
from $$$
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

South Pacific Eco Extreme will engage you in an epic adventure exploring places few have dared to go! You’ll stay in African-style safari tents, a cave behind a waterfall (yes, you read that right!), and a jungle ecolodge on the South Pacific coast. This 9-day extreme adventure includes mountain hiking, horseback riding, waterfall rappelling, plus whitewater rafting, and will undoubtedly be the most memorable vacation you’ve ever experienced!

Rainforest Safari
14 days (customizable)
destinations: Central Valley, Tortuguero, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest & Manuel Antonio Beach
tags: nature and light adventure
category: affordable value from $$ and add 2 free nights for May, June, September, & October dates OR add 1 free night for all dates now through Dec 14, 2024!
category: affordable deluxe $$$ and add a free night for September & October dates!
important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

The Rainforest Safari sends you cross-country from the Caribbean to the Pacific seeking out wildlife found in incredible habitats. This 14-day quest starts by going to Tortuguero, only accessible by boat or plane, where you’ll cruise the famous jungle canals. Next, you’ll explore the Arenal Volcano region, go on a river safari, and leisurely hike the base of the volcano. Afterward, you can soak in your eco-resort’s onsite hot springs. From there it's up to the unique Monteverde Cloud Forest with a naturalist hike taking you over hanging bridges. Finally, you’ll relax at the beach and enjoy a guided tour of the abundant wildlife living in Manual Antonio National Park found over on the Pacific coast.

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Packages By Interest | Top 10 Vacations | Best Destinations | Custom Trip

The Best Destinations for 2024 & 2025!

Arenal Volcano

intro: Arenal Volcano is not only one of Costa Rica's most beautiful vacation destinations but also numero uno for adventure and hot springs! Whether you are seeking peace and tranquility or thrilling outdoor challenges, you'll find it here with an incredible selection of high adventure or nature eco-tours. Combine that with world-class hot spring resorts plus a mild year-round temperature, and you'll wonder why you'd ever want to leave!

why visit: adventure, nature, hot springs, volcano
combines well with these destinations: Manuel Antonio, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Guanacaste Beaches, Sarapiqui, Nicoya Beaches, Caribbean
best weather: While Arenal is in North Central Costa Rica, it is positioned at the base of the Talamanca Mountains, on the fringe of the Caribbean slope of the country. Weather usually is best from mid-January - mid-May, and September through October, but is highly unpredictable as the area can be affected by weather from both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
best prices: May, June, September - November

where to stay: The Arenal Volcano region boasts some of Costa Rica's most unique and luxurious hotels in Costa Rica. The amazing Nayara Gardens and the Nayara Springs properties have been voted among the best hotels in the world for several years running. These amazing sister properties offer luxurious bungalow-style accommodations with world-class service and yet, retain a casual vibe. They were recently joined by the new, eco-friendly Nayara Tented Camp, where you can enjoy a luxurious safari-themed holiday in style. The Springs Resort is another amazing luxury-class resort with dozens of hot springs pools and rivers surrounded by gorgeous tropical gardens and jungle. The Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa is one of the most famous hot springs resorts in the world! This amazing eco-friendly resort offers the best hot springs in Costa Rica, set in gorgeous gardens and jungle. The Arenal Kioro Hotel is another beautiful 5-star eco-resort that is set at the base of the imposing Arenal Volcano. You won't find better views of the volcano, and this is a hotel to remember in the rainy season as they offer great green season specials. Amor Arenal Hotel is the newest luxury resort in the Arenal Volcano region. This stylish and luxurious eco-resort offers guests gorgeous bungalows, amazing views, and hot springs surrounded by rainforest. The Amor Arenal is sure to be one of the most popular hotels in Costa Rica in the coming years. Rounding off the top of the list, we have to include Arenal Springs Resort & Spa. This unique and popular 4-star eco-resort offers guests beautiful hot springs, world-class service, and incredible value, making it one of our favorite and highest-rated hotels!

what to do: Your visit to Arenal Volcano will likely be the highlight of your Costa Rica vacation! Arenal is the hot springs and adventure capital of Costa Rica but is also one of the best places to take in natural beauty and enjoy the incredible biodiversity and nature. We always recommend staying at a hotel with onsite hot springs, but if you can't find availability, you'll likely want to spend a day at one of the resorts that offer day or evening passes. Tabacon is undoubtedly the most popular day pass hot springs option, followed by the Los Perdidos Springs at The Springs Resort, and then Baldi Hot Springs for a more economical option that is great for kids. Adventurers will be thrilled with dozens of fun and exciting experiences available at Arenal! You can go whitewater rafting on the awesome Rio Balsa River or go extreme on class III and IV rapids on the Rio Sarapiqui. Arenal offers the best canyoning and waterfall rappelling in Costa Rica. Just imagine rappelling down tropical waterfalls and then scrambling through a canyon in the middle of the jungle! This area is also home to some of Costa Rica's most popular zipline adventures. Ziplining is the ultimate high-speed, high-flying adventure activity that offers a birds-eye view of the jungle. Other popular adventures include ATV riding, horseback riding, cave exploration at the Venado Caves, kayaking at Lake Arenal or on the Rio Penas Blancas, and whitewater tubing on the thrilling Rio Arenal. Nature lovers have plenty of options, as well! The Arenal Hanging Bridges offers a unique way to hike through the rainforest. Visitors can hike several kilometers on their terrestrial trails as well as on their hanging bridges so you can experience the magic of the jungle and its canopy, where most of the animals live. The Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge is one of the most popular places in Costa Rica to search for monkeys, sloths, caimans, and many other species of wildlife. You can go by motorized riverboat or on a canoe for a more intimate experience. Closer to Arenal, we offer a Safari Float on the Rio Penas Blancas. This float is a fun and memorable activity for families as you go on a whitewater rafting boat. While there are no rapids, you will be thrilled by the amazing wildlife that inhabits this biological corridor, including sloths, toucans, monkeys, iguanas, and many other animals. A hike through the Arenal Volcano National Park is a great way to spend a couple of hours in the afternoon before a visit to the hot springs. The park can be hit or miss at times but is home to many species of wildlife. Monkeys, sloths, toucans, and peccaries are commonly spotted, but you also have an off chance of seeing something incredible like an ocelot, margay, or tayra. Birdwatching can be incredible in the Arenal Volcano region. Chestnut and keel-billed toucans are common. Aracari, motmots, honeycreepers, and several species of tanagers are as well. If you want to visit a waterfall, be sure to save time for the La Fortuna Waterfalls. This gorgeous waterfall is nearly 200 feet tall and surrounded by a lush jungle. The world-famous Rio Celeste Waterfall is also a great day trip from the La Fortuna area. To access it, you hike through the Tenorio Volcano National Park until the forest opens up and you are facing one of the world's most beautiful waterfalls. The Kool-Aid blue color waters are a stunning contrast to the lush green jungle that surrounds it. insider's advice: Choose a hotel with onsite hot springs. You'll save time and money versus visiting costly offsite hot springs, and you'll be able to enjoy them throughout your stay for free!

insider's advice: Choose a hotel with onsite hot springs. You'll save time and money versus visiting costly offsite hot springs, and you'll be able to enjoy them throughout your stay for free!

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Manuel Antonio

intro: Manuel Antonio, a tiny town set on the Pacific coast, offers stunning white sand beaches backed by palm trees and rimmed with a rainforest jungle full of wildlife. Its national park, teeming with sloths, monkeys, and parrots, to name a few, is the most visited in the country.

why visit: beach, nature, adventure
combines well with these destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Ballena, Osa Peninsula, San Gerardo de Dota
best weather: December - April (some years have a mini dry season in July, known locally as El Veranillo de San Juan)
best prices: May - November

where to stay: Manuel Antonio is best known for its eco-friendly boutique hotels that line the hills above the beaches. Los Altos Resort is a luxurious 5-star Bali-inspired condo resort that we highly recommend! They offer various unit configurations, from 1 - 3 bedrooms. Los Altos is on a private wildlife reserve and has direct beach access at the base of the property. Arenas del Mar Resort is another excellent high-end boutique hotel, and right by the beach. This hotel offers elegant rooms and world-class services. The Tulemar Resort is a beautiful eco-friendly resort located on the hill near the center of Manuel Antonio. You would have to take the hotel's shuttle to reach the beach, but it is accessible from the resort property. This hotel is best known for its fantastic customer service, which makes it among Costa Rica's highest-rated hotels. Si Como No Resort is a beautiful 4-star eco-resort with stunning views over the jungle and gorgeous Pacific coast. The Shana Hotel is another terrific 4-star option. The Shana is set on a hillside overlooking the forest and coast, but you can walk down a nature trail to a gorgeous little beach within 10 minutes. La Vela Boutique Hotel is a wonderful 3-star option if you are looking to save money. This fun, small hotel is within just a few minutes walk from the beach, national park, shopping, and a variety of restaurants. Monkeys and other incredible animals frequently pass through the hotel grounds from the park! You can't go wrong with this gem!

what to do: Manuel Antonio is a jungle beach destination with loads of wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and much more! This beach offers more activity and experience options than any other in Costa Rica. A visit to Manuel Antonio National Park is practically a requirement! This fantastic park, set in the coastal jungles, is home to countless species of rare and exotic animals. You can also sign up for a wide variety of adventures in Manuel Antonio, including whitewater rafting, canyoning and rappelling down jungle waterfalls, horseback riding, ATV adventures, canopy zipline, biking, and more! Of course, you can also choose from a variety of beach activities such as surf lessons, kayaking, or even parasailing. Catamaran Cruises are another popular activity in this area. Imagine cruising along the gorgeous coast as you watch the brilliant sun setting on the Pacific.

insider's advice: Bring your towel and bathing suit when visiting Manuel Antonio National Park. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica are in the park. Plan to stick around after your tour and enjoy some fun in the sun in this incredible setting!

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Tamarindo

intro: One of Costa Rica's most popular beaches, Tamarindo, invites visitors to enjoy its many surfside village restaurants, shops, and nightlife entertainment. If you're seeking an endless summer with beautiful beaches and live music, Playa Tamarindo is the place to go on your Costa Rica vacation!

why visit: beach and surfing
combines well with these destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Nicoya Beaches
best weather: mid-November - July but many days in August are nice as well
best prices: May - November

where to stay: Tamarindo is a great place to visit and offers visitors some wonderful hotels to choose from! Capitan Suizo is a beachfront boutique hotel located close enough to town to walk to restaurants but far enough to escape from the crowds. This 4-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations and remarkable customer service. Cala Luna is another higher-end 4-star boutique hotel that we highly recommend. Located in the quiet Langosta neighborhood of Tamarindo, Cala Luna offers guests 2 and 3-bedroom villas or well-appointed guest rooms. The 4-star Tamarindo Diria Resort is located in the center of Tamarindo and right in front of the beach. This hotel is more like a resort and offers adults-only or family sections of the hotel, so there's something for everyone!

what to do: Tamarindo is a fun and enjoyable town, offering a plethora of activities! Of course, beaching, swimming, boogie-boarding, and surfing are at the top of the list, but there are plenty of other things to do as well. Adventurers can go canopy ziplining, horseback riding, ATVing, kayaking, or even take a drive up to one of the adventure ranch haciendas near Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Nature lovers can go on a birdwatching tour or a riverboat safari at Palo Verde National Park.

insider's advice: Tamarindo is unique in the sense that the beach is perfect for swimming or surfing. The south end of Playa Tamarindo is calm and perfect for swimming. The north end of the beach has larger waves that are ideal for surfing. Bring your boogie board for the area in between!

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Monteverde Cloud Forest

intro: The mysterious cloud-enshrouded mountains of Monteverde offer an almost magical experience as you walk the forest floor and up into the canopy on overhanging suspension bridges. Home of world-class highland species birdwatching, where birders flock to seek a glimpse of the rare Resplendent Quetzal or hear the call of the 3-Wattled Bellbird, the unique Cloud Forest also features a rich assortment of orchids and epiphytes. Thrill-seekers can choose to quench their thirst for adventure traveling at high speeds by zipline through the magnificent old-growth forest over spectacular scenery. The local village of Santa Elena provides plenty of eateries, local artisan shops, museums, and galleries.

why visit: cloud forest, nature, adventure, birdwatching
combines well with these destinations: Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio, Guanacaste Beaches, Nicoya Beaches
best weather: December - April
best prices: May - November

where to stay: For years, Monteverde has been known as the land of rustic ecolodges, but that is beginning to change. Opening its doors in 2019, Senda Monteverde Hotel offers guests a luxurious ecolodge option. This hotel is backed by a private nature reserve and offers stylish eco-friendly accommodations, but the secret is in its service. The staff at this hotel is simply wonderful and makes it one of our favorite hidden gems! We also like that they have an onsite restaurant with great prices, a nice change these days! Koora Monteverde Boutique Hotel is another great eco-friendly lodge. They also opened for business in 2019 and offer higher-end eco-lodging. Along similar lines, Hotel Belmar is a great eco-friendly lodge that offers simple but stylish accommodations. Built out of local hardwoods, the buildings are beautiful. If you want to save money for tours and experiences, we'd recommend El Establo Mountain Hotel or Hotel Poco a Poco. Both of these hotels are in the midrange category, offering affordable, but nice accommodations.

what to do: Monteverde is one of the most popular cloud forest destinations in the world, so be sure to plan to visit one of the cloud forest reserves! While Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is far and away the most recognized reserve in the region, Curi Cancha gets our vote as the best of the best! This amazing reserve is located near the other reserve but has far fewer visitors and a lot more potential for animal sightings and great birdwatching. We also recommend checking out one of the amazing canopy tours that Monteverde is famous for. The canopy ziplines in this area are among the best in the world! If you're looking for a slower-paced activity, birdwatching, and just learning about the cloud forest, we'd recommend a guided hanging bridges tour. These hikes will take you both on the ground and through the canopy of the cloud forest via hanging suspension bridges.

insider's advice: Monteverde is home to the best canopy hanging bridge tours and canopy zipline courses in Costa Rica and perhaps the world. If you are planning on enjoying one of these activities, save it for Monteverde! Birdwatchers will like to know that the best time to observe Resplendent Quetzals is during their breeding season from February through May. Three-Wattled Bell Birds breed in Monteverde from March through June.

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Guanacaste

intro: Known as the Gold Coast, Guanacaste is home to some of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica. Whether you're seeking world-class surfing, classic beach hangouts, a romantic getaway on miles of gorgeous beach, seaside horseback riding, or an all-inclusive beach resort, Guanacaste has it all. This just may be the perfect destination for your Costa Rica beach vacation!

why visit: beaches
combines well with these destinations: Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest
best weather: mid-November - July but many days in August are nice as well
best prices: May - November

where to stay: There are many great hotels in Guanacaste, so we'll focus on a handful that are consistently rated as the best by our clients. Guanacaste is home to the majority of Costa Rica's all-inclusive resorts. The 5-star Westin Playa Conchal is our highest recommendation as it's positioned on one of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica and has wonderful amenities. It's also just a 15-minute drive from Tamarindo, so there's plenty to do in this area. Secrets Papagayo Resort is our top recommendation for adults-only all-inclusive. This 5-star resort is also beachfront and located just 25 minutes from LIR Airport, making it one of the most conveniently located resorts in Costa Rica. In the boutique hotel category, we recommend several great options. Hotel Playa Hermosa Bosque del Mar is a wonderful beachfront hotel with an amazing open-air beachfront restaurant. At just 25 minutes from the airport, it's also very convenient. Bahia del Sol is another great option if you want to go a little off-the-beaten-path, but still be within a half-hour drive of Tamarindo. This beachfront hotel is located in the quiet village of Potrero and offers luxurious eco-friendly accommodations. Be sure to check out our Tamarindo section for recommendations, including Capitan Suizo and Cala Luna.

what to do: Guanacaste offers visitors a variety of beaches, offering everything from gentle swimming to world-class big wave surfing and everything in between. Popular beach activities include kayaking, sunset catamaran cruises with snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing. if you're an adventurer, we'd recommend taking a day trip to the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. This national park and surrounding area is covered in tropical dry forest and offers great hiking opportunities. The adventure ranches surrounding the volcano offer canopy zipline, ATV riding, whitewater tubing, horseback riding, and much more, including hot springs! Nature lovers can go on a riverboat safari cruise in Palo Verde National Park or go on a guided hike in Santa Rosa National Park, in search of rare and exotic animals.

insider's advice: Northern Guanacaste from Tamarindo through Papagayo is the driest region of Costa Rica. Even in the rainiest months, September and October, many days see some sunshine.

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Osa Peninsula and Corcovado

intro: One of the wildest, most remote, and rugged regions of Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula is home to the world-famous Corcovado National Park. Often unreachable except by boat or plane, this area offers an untamed, raw experience with guided tours into the remotest areas, including protected ocean reefs. Mostly ecolodges are found here, including some quite primitive, a real back-to-nature experience!

why visit: nature, beaches, off-the-beaten-path
combines well with these destinations: Manuel Antonio, Costa Ballena, Southern Mountains, and San Gerardo de Dota
best weather: December - April (some years have a mini dry season in July, known locally as El Veranillo de San Juan)
best prices: May - November

where to stay: The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the world's best ecolodges. Copa del Arbol in Drake Bay offers beachfront lodging, with charming bungalows and world-class service. Surrounded by jungle and in front of a gorgeous beach, you'll have no problem setting your cellphone down for a few days of paradise! Aguila de Osa is another wonderful Drake Bay ecolodge. Known for its great food, amazing experiences, and world-class service, Aguila is a great choice for your stay in Drake Bay. Cabo Matapalo is another amazing destination on the Osa Peninsula and is home to some incredible lodges! Lapa Rios Lodge defines eco-luxury. Set on a hill overlooking the wild jungle and the Pacific coast, this amazing ecolodge offers luxurious accommodations and world-class service. El Remanso is another amazing "rustic-chic" ecolodge in this remote region. With airy and thoughtfully decorated bungalows and villas, a gorgeous swimming pool, spectacular jungle, and ocean views, and a prime location by Corcovado National Park, El Remanso is one of the best ecolodges in Costa Rica!

what to do: Corcovado National Park is one of the most biologically intense places on the planet! A guided trip to the park is practically a must to see monkeys, sloths, toucans, macaws, and countless other species of exotic animals. You might even catch a glimpse of something extraordinary like a jaguar, ocelot, or tapir! Cano Island is Costa Rica's best scuba diving and snorkeling location. Located off the southwest coast of the Osa, Cano Island is a must for anybody interested in experiencing the wonders under the sea. The waters off the coast of the Osa Peninsula are home to year-round populations of dolphins, but this is also one of the best places in the world to observe humpback whales from December through March and again from August through October.

insider's advice: There are no large or luxurious resorts on the Osa Peninsula. Expect rustic but, in some cases, elegant ecolodges that cater to ecotourists. Amenities such as air-conditioning and television are rare, but then again, where else can you be entertained by sloths and Scarlett macaws by day and use howler monkeys as an alarm clock?

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Nicoya Peninsula

intro: The Nicoya Peninsula offers an incredibly diverse and beautiful region of Costa Rica with miles of pristine Pacific coastline. Part of the Guanacaste province, it provides off-the-beaten-path beaches and old-world Costa Rican charm. Here you'll find a variety of beaches, secluded coves, big wave surf breaks, sea turtle nesting sites, snorkeling, fishing, surfing, and the occasional all-inclusive resort.

why visit: beaches and off-the-beaten-path
combines well with these destinations: Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest
best weather: mid-November - July but many days in August are nice as well
best prices: May - November

where to stay: The Nicoya Peninsula is a great place to go if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path beach destination for your Costa Rica vacation! Nammbu Bungalows in Carrillo is a nice 4-star hotel, located just across the street from one of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica. Tango Mar Resort in Tambor is another great option. This beachfront hotel has a golf course, yoga studio, seaside bar, and more - essentially everything you need for a tropical escape! Hotel Nantipa in Santa Teresa offers luxurious oceanfront suites and villas, so you can explore the exotic, world-class surfing beaches of this famous surf and yoga destination.

what to do: Surfing boogie boarding, and swimming top the list of things to do on the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula, but there are some other great experiences as well! Nature lovers can watch nesting sea turtles on many nights from May through November at Playa Ostional or Camaronal. A guided hike at the Cabo Blanco National Park is another great way to see animals, including monkeys, Scarlett macaws, anteaters, and many other amazing species! Kayaking and snorkeling at Isla Chora is a great way to spend the day if you are staying in the Samara or Carrillo area. There's also a wonderful day trip to Isla Tortuga available from Tambor, Montezuma, and Santa Teresa. This fun-filled day includes a boat ride to the exotic island, where you can relax on white-sand beaches and experience amazing snorkeling. Of course, many visitors to the Nicoya opt to just relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches!

insider's advice: If you are traveling to beaches on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula from Monteverde, Arenal, or points east, use the ferry from Puntarenas to cross the Gulf of Nicoya. You'll also need a 4x4, GPS, a good map, and a strong sense of adventure if you are driving your own!

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Southern Caribbean

intro: Costa Rica's southern Caribbean coast invites you to indulge in its reggae vibe, spicy food, and lively steel drum music for an interesting cultural experience. You'll find flat, sandy beaches, turquoise waters, surf breaks, and swaying palms amid lush rainforests ideal for surfing, snorkeling, swimming, or swinging in a hammock. Inland, you can visit indigenous farms practicing old methods of natural sustainability, visit waterfalls, hike the Talamanca mountains, and find a host of adventure activities.

why visit: beaches, nature, and off-the-beaten-path
combines well with these destinations: Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero, Pacuare, Turrialba, Sarapiqui
best weather: March - April, September - October
best prices: May - November

where to stay: The boutique-style Hotel Aguas Claras sets the stage and defines luxury on the Southern Caribbean coast. This area is known for its rustic and unique lodges, but the Aguas Claras has changed everything! Set in front of the gorgeous Playa Chiquita and surrounded by a jungle that is teeming with wildlife, this amazing hotel is designed to deliver an authentic Caribbean experience. It is sure to be a highlight of your Costa Rica vacation! Hotel Le Cameleon is another great hotel choice for the Southern Caribbean! With its modern design, beach club, open-air restaurant and bar, and gorgeous jungle surroundings, it's easy to see why this is one of the region's most popular hotels!

what to do: The Southern Caribbean coast is home to a variety of beaches. Some are better for swimming and others are great for surfing. There is also amazing snorkeling in front of Cahuita National Park, where you can see corals and colorful fish. Cahuita National Park is also a great place to take a guided hike through the nature trails, in search of boisterous howler monkeys, cute sloths, and countless other species of animals! There's also a great hike at Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge, where you can go on a guided hike through the jungle to gorgeous white-sand hidden beaches. One of the best tour experiences is a form of transportation to or from the Caribbean coast. We offer a transfer between San Jose, Arenal Volcano, and the Southern Caribbean, with a stop for a whitewater rafting trip on the world-famous Rio Pacuare. This trip is a great opportunity to break up the long drive with something exciting and spectacular!

insider's advice: There are no large resorts or all-inclusive hotels in the Southern Caribbean region. With few exceptions, expect rustic lodges and bungalow-style accommodations with few amenities and amazing surroundings! While the southern Caribbean is best known for its beautiful beaches, the area is also home to loads of wildlife. Cahuita National Park is one of the best places in Costa Rica to observe sloths, monkeys, and other exotic animals.

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Tortuguero

intro: Inaccessible by car, the remote coastal region of Tortuguero provides a sanctuary for rare wildlife. It is also a primary nesting site for several species of endangered sea turtles. Canals wind through the jungle allowing you to observe the untouched beauty. Supporting eleven unique types of biospheres, it may be the most diverse place in Costa Rica! A small colorful village sits on an island sandwiched between the river and the Caribbean coastline. Ideal for serious nature enthusiasts!

why visit: nature and off-the-beaten-path
combines well with these destinations: Arenal Volcano, Southern Caribbean, Pacuare, Turrialba, Sarapiqui
best weather: March - April, September - October
best prices: May - November

where to stay: Tortuguero is home to some of the best ecolodges in Costa Rica! Most of these lodges include roundtrip transportation from San Jose, including a segment on a boat! Many of the lodges also include meals and tour experiences such as a tour to the remote village for a cultural experience as well as a safari-style boat ride through the fantastic Tortuguero Canals in search of the many rare animals that inhabit this remote region. Tortuga Lodge and Gardens offers higher-end lodging and individualized service, making it one of our favorite lodges in the area. Mawamba Lodge is another excellent ecolodge option. While it is rustic, guests will love the location and incredible service!

what to do: Tortuguero is an ecotourist's paradise! Only accessible by boat or plane, the canals and parks are loaded with rare and exotic animals. Most lodges will include a riverboat safer through the canals, hiking through the jungle, and also a cultural trip to the village. From the end of July and through October, many of the lodges offer sea turtle nesting tours at night, allowing you to experience the thrill of witnessing a giant sea turtle laying her precious cargo!

insider's advice: Tortuguero is another area with very rustic lodging. Expect an authentic ecolodge experience and immersion in nature in this region! Many of Tortuguero's lodges offer packages that include transportation to and from San Jose, lodging, tours on the canals, and meals for less than it costs for a hotel stay in other areas!

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Costa Ballena

intro: Costa Ballena is one of the most beautiful yet least visited regions in Costa Rica. Towering rainforest-covered mountains extend to long stretches of beautiful southern Pacific beaches, creating a spectacular contrast of gorgeous scenery and inspiring landscapes. Home of the famous Whale's Tail at Ballena National Park and world-class surfing.

why visit: nature, beaches, off-the-beaten-path
combines well with these destinations: Manuel Antonio, Osa Peninsula, Southern Mountains, and San Gerardo de Dota
best weather: December - April (some years have a mini dry season in July, known locally as El Veranillo de San Juan)
best prices: May - November

where to stay: While you won't find any large resorts, there are some incredible independently-owned boutique-style hotels to choose from on Costa Ballena! You will find protected coasts with gorgeous natural habitats along the shores, but this also means that the hotels are located further back, in the surrounding mountains and hillsides. Oxygen Jungle Villas, Kuru Villas, and Rancho Pacifico are all fantastic and luxurious small boutique hotels, offering sweeping views, world-class services, and beautiful guestrooms and villas. Hotel Cristal Ballena is a great choice to save a little money, but still, enjoy 4-star accommodations and an amazing all-around experience.

what to do: We recommend a 4x4 SUV rental car for exploring this beautiful region, where you can walk miles on stunning beaches without seeing another soul or stop at a towering waterfall along the road! This area also offers some extraordinary organized tour experiences. Whale watching in front of Marino Ballena National Park from December through March and again from August through October is simply spectacular! Kayaking and snorkeling in the same park can be amazing during the dry season, from December through April. If you have a rental car, we recommend a visit to the Hacienda Baru Hacienda and Wildlife Refuge. Organized tours to choose from include guided nature hikes, birdwatching tours, canopy zipline, and much more. If you are up for an adventure and in good physical condition, we would recommend an overnight stay in a cave at the Diamante Rappelling Overnight Tour. This tour is one of the best experiences an adventurer can have in Costa Rica! You hike through the jungle-covered mountains up to a cave that is tucked behind a towering double waterfall. They have a rustic kitchen, sitting area, gym mats to sleep on, and a bathroom in place, and use burros to pack in food. Aside from the thrill of the hike and unique stay, you can also rappel down the waterfall. The next morning you can jump off of another waterfall into a pool below. This tour truly is a memorable experience and is sure to be the highlight of your vacation to Costa Rica!

insider's advice: If you have a rental car, be sure to drive the coastal highway to see some of Costa Rica's most beautiful landscapes! Many waterfalls can be seen cascading down mountainsides, and small turn-off beaches can be found all along the coast. Visit Playa Ventanas to see caves on the beach!

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Costa Rica offers an amazing experience for everybody!

Whether you’re a family looking for an adventurous vacation, a couple desiring a romantic beach getaway, or a thrill-seeking backpacker, Costa Rica delivers. With a year-round tropical climate and one of the most diverse landscapes in the world, you will find endless opportunities in every corner of Costa Rica. Sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean the country offers a playground of stunning beaches, spectacular mountains, a wealth of wildlife, and friendly welcoming people who truly believe in Pura Vida, the Pure Life!

Due to its rich bio-diversity, pure beauty, and proximity to Mother Nature in unison with its small ecological footprint, Costa Rica offers an experience like none other. Whether diving or snorkeling the crystal clear offshore protected waters, to zip-lining hundreds of feet above a giant old-growth rainforest, you’ll be surrounding yourself with tropical beauty. Marveling at sunsets and sinking your feet in the warm sand, you’ll likely experience complete detoxification, ultimately feeling the embrace of a carefree state of mind.

Costa Rica was termed one of Forbes’ “Happiest Countries in the World”. Having abolished their army in 1949, Ticos, as Costa Ricans call themselves, support a peaceful lifestyle, protect their natural wildlife, and are well on the way to becoming the first carbon-neutral country in the world.

One of Costa Rica’s greatest advantages is its ability to cater to so many different groups of people. Whether it be a large family, a group of retirees, a corporate business, a yoga circle, or a big wedding party, you’ll find the perfect accommodations in a paradisiacal atmosphere. Children can discover a world of amazing animals, teenagers can enjoy a day of surfing, Dad can take an offshore fishing charter, and Mom can indulge in a day at a hot springs spa. Costa Rica truly offers something for everyone, ensuring each visitor leaves with a lasting memory to smile about.

Enjoy a slice of freshly cut pineapple, sip from a hand-picked coconut, or add a little local rum to both, delighting in one of Costa Rica’s most indulgent cocktails, the Piña Colada. Take a horseback ride, surf a few waves, or simply soak up some sunshine; regardless of what you choose, your mind will be miles from the office and finally at ease.

We specialize in making dreams like this come true every day. So, if you’re ready for an amazing experience, give us a call or use our easy Customize Your Trip form to get started. All of our vacation packages are fully customizable, or you can create your own from scratch. We’ll show you how to easily plan your dream vacation with valuable tips to save you time and money. Curious about how to plan a Costa Rica vacation? Click here to see how.

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Looking for more vacation ideas?

Adventure

Our Adventure Costa Rica Vacations create the perfect balance of fun-filled outdoor activities and natural habitat exploration. Well known as a paradise for eco-tourists, Costa Rica’s rainforests, beaches, mountains, and cloud forests, full of abundant wildlife and natural beauty, provide an unforgettable setting for satisfying your thirst for adventure.

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Inclusive Vacations

Our Inclusive Vacations invite you to indulge in tropical decadence as you relax and enjoy the many amenities provided by your all-inclusive resort surroundings. In addition, you’ll be taken on great tours and exciting adventures. These fun-filled vacations include delightful hotels and resorts, organized tours, all transportation, most if not all meals, and often include drinks for a portion of the trip.

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Extreme Adventures

Our Extreme Adventure vacations can be summed up in two words – Game On! Imagine yourself in the jungle careening down raging whitewater rivers, rappelling rainforest waterfalls in giant canyons, or zipping at high speeds through the cloud forest canopy. We offer all this and so much more. Hold on tight as we take you for the ultimate challenge while visiting some of Costa Rica’s premier vacation destinations.

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Wildlife Safaris

Our Wildlife Safaris, with the very best bilingual naturalist guides, can escort you into a variety of protected natural habitats, such as pristine rainforests, coastal canals, tropical dry forests, wetlands, and cloud forests to name just a few. Whether you want to travel way into the wilderness or prefer being led into easier areas for mountain birdwatching and lowland river cruises, we offer excellent wildlife observation opportunities to choose from.

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Honeymoon Getaways

Our Honeymoon getaways will bring you to paradise where you can share the wonder of each other surrounded by spectacular natural beauty at some of the most romantic settings in Costa Rica. Walk along deserted beaches watching the sun go down (or up! on the Caribbean side), soak together in a secluded river grotto at Arenal’s natural hot springs, encourage each other to swing like Tarzan on thrilling zipline adventures, indulge in all-inclusive resorts with fabulous spas; we have many choices to make yours a memorable special occasion.

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Surfing Safaris

Let's go surfin' now, everybody’s learning how, come on and safari with meeeee! With this classic song, the Beach Boys introduced the idea of surfing to people around the world. Our Surfing Safaris, taught by dedicated expert surfers, will teach you either how to surf for the first time if you’re a beginner, or show an old pro some new board moves. If you’ve always wanted to try it, Costa Rica’s the place. Most people learn in one lesson. From regular rollers to epic waves, these ocean surf breaks rock! You’ll also enjoy traveling through the scenic countryside to get there. So what are you waiting for? Let’s go surfin' now!

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Learning and Family

Our Learning and Family vacations provide an enormous outdoor biological classroom to explore both geological wonders as well as the rich diversity of wild plant and animal life. What better place than Costa Rica for you to engage in fun, meaningful activities together? Throw in a caving tour or zip-lining over a river canyon for added thrills. We provide the best bilingual naturalist guides to ensure you don’t miss a thing as you explore this amazing country and culture.

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Sport Fishing Adventures

Our Sport Fishing Adventures will cast you into waters where numerous record billfish have been caught off the Pacific side and huge tarpon regularly reeled in off the Caribbean coast. Lake Arenal provides a freshwater hot spot for the elusive (and delicious!) Guapote. Costa Rica is home to some of the best sport fishing in the world. We utilize only the best captains plus top-of-the-line equipment and boats for our famed fishing expeditions.

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What are the Top 10 Benefits of Planning My Trip with Pacific Trade Winds?

Planning your Costa Rica vacation with PTW offers numerous advantages but these are at the top of the list!

• Local Expertise: Based in Costa Rica, and with nearly two decades of experience, only offering vacations to Costa Rica, we truly are the local experts! Our team of local, native Costa Ricans and expats who have been here for 20+ years know this country inside and out. From first-hand experience as well as the experience of working with tens of thousands of clients over the years, our team has extensive knowledge and expertise about this country that we love dearly. Our team possesses an in-depth understanding of Costa Rica's destinations, attractions, and logistics, allowing us to provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your preferences.

• Bespoke Customization: We customize bespoke vacations specific to each client's interests, preferences, and budget. We take the time to understand the purpose of your trip, whether it's adventure activities, cultural experiences, wildlife and nature, or relaxation, and design an itinerary that matches your desires. When you receive a first draft itinerary from us, it is always just that - a first draft. We will work with you to fine-tune your vacation to perfection. We will continue iterating until it's just right for you and you are ready to book. But unlike most companies, we do not charge service fees for future changes, meaning that you can customize up until you've completed your trip.

• Exclusive Accommodations: Over the years, we have established relationships with hundreds of hotels, resorts, and lodges that provide exceptional experiences to our clients. We can recommend and arrange accommodations that align with your preferences, ensuring comfort, quality, and immersion in the local culture and environment.

• Guided Tours and Activities: We only work with the best of the best tour operators and guides and offer tours across the entire country. Whether you want to explore national parks, embark on wildlife excursions, enjoy water sports, or immerse yourself in cultural tours, we connect you with experienced guides who can provide informative and engaging experiences. Additionally, we have arranged for many extra perks for our clients which sometimes include free drinks or snacks, transportation, extra time, or even preferred guides.

• Seamless Logistics: Planning a vacation involves various logistical aspects such as transportation, airport transfers, and coordination between different destinations, connecting the dots between destinations or hotels and tours. We take care of these details, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing any potential stress or hassle during your trip. We can arrange transportation, flights, and other logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation.

• The Best Prices: Due to our high-volume wholesale agreements and price matching with nearly every hotel we work with, you will nearly always save money when booking through us compared to booking individually. And of course, we cost less than any other agency in Costa Rica - we dare you to compare! We also offer interest-free payment plans that can often be paid at your convenience.

• Free Rescheduling & Flexible Cancellation Policies: We make it easy to reschedule with free one-time rescheduling* and our cancellation policies are among the best in the industry.

• No Hidden Fees!: Unlike many other travel sites, we do not have hidden fees - ever! Your itinerary will always include current taxes and fees or will thoroughly explain what these fees may be in the rare cases when you must pay directly to the provider. Hidden fees on other sites often account for up to 15 - 50% or more of the price. Don't believe me? Look at the fine print of any advertised air and ground package...

• Concierge Service: By partnering with us, you have access to our dedicated team of professionals in our Concierge Department who are available to assist you 24/7/365 throughout your journey. We provide personalized support, address any concerns or questions, and offer recommendations and insights based on our local knowledge and experience. We are here for you!

• Safety and Security: We prioritize your safety and security throughout your entire Costa Rica vacation. We stay updated on current travel advisories, work with trusted partners and suppliers, and ensure that all necessary precautions are taken and accounted for to provide a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Planning your Costa Rica vacation with us offers the advantage of local expertise, customization, exclusive accommodations, guided tours and activities, seamless logistics, personalized support, great pricing, and a focus on safety and security. With our assistance, you can enjoy a meticulously planned, memorable, amazing, and stress-free vacation in Costa Rica.

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*Explanation of Lifelong Deposits and No Charge Rescheduling & Modifications

Lifelong Deposits

If you delay or cancel your trip for any reason, your deposit will be valid until you are ready to go. It is also transferable to a friend.

Free Rescheduling & Modifications for PTW Services

For travelers with existing bookings and new bookings, we will waive modification fees for those who wish to change their travel dates to future travel dates for all booking plans. Restrictions may apply. Please review our policies for details.