Costa Rica Natural Adventure
Explore Costa Rica’s iconic ecosystems on a fully private expedition designed to immerse you in one of the planet’s most biodiverse and vibrant regions. This ideal itinerary can be customized to match your available travel dates, pace, and personal interests—offering an experience crafted just for you. Led by a Senior NPE Leader with over two decades of field expertise and guided by the country’s finest naturalists, this journey blends seamless logistics with rich interpretation and warm local hospitality.
From the wildlife-rich canals of Tortuguero and the volcanic landscapes of Arenal to the mist-shrouded cloud forests of Monteverde and the coffee highlands of the Central Valley, you’ll explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders in depth—while enjoying handpicked boutique and ecolodge accommodations that balance comfort with immersion in nature.
Along the way, float through rainforest rivers, meet rural families in cultural exchanges, spot resplendent quetzals, and relax in thermal springs. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a family seeking connection, or a couple searching for quiet wonder, this private journey offers a deeply enriching and flexible way to experience Costa Rica—guided by experts, and designed entirely around you.
WHAT MAKES THIS NATURAL ADVENTURE IN COSTA RICA EXTRAORDINARY:
- Explore the Amazon of Costa Rica: Navega los canales de Tortuguero rodeado de selva tropical, monos, tucanes y caimanes.
- Relax in the Thermal Waters of Arenal: Disfruta de aguas termales naturales con vista al majestuoso Volcán Arenal.
- Float Through a Rainforest Paradise: Explora el río Peñas Blancas en balsa, observando monos, iguanas y aves.
- Experience Real Costa Rican Life: Visita una familia rural y aprende a hacer tortillas tradicionales al fuego.
- Ascend to Monteverde’s Cloud Forests: Llega a las nubes de Santa Elena, hogar de artistas y especies endémicas.
- Walk Among the Treetops of Selvatura: Cruza puentes colgantes sobre el bosque nuboso y observa aves únicas.
- Discover the Birds of Curi Cancha Reserve: Camina con tu guía por este santuario repleto de quetzales y monos.
- Sip Costa Rica’s Finest Coffee: Visita una finca cafetalera en las faldas del Poás y degusta café, chocolate y licores.
“Costa Rica amazed us at every turn—from floating through rainforest canals to sipping fresh coffee on volcanic slopes. Nature, culture, and comfort in perfect balance.”
— Sarah T.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!
Costa Rica Itinerary
This is a detailed Costa Rica expedition itinerary crafted for previous New Paths Expeditions travelers. To prepare the ideal experience for you, please get in touch with our destination specialist.
Arrival in San José, Costa Rica
Welcome to Costa Rica—a land of vibrant biodiversity, volcanic peaks, and rich cultural traditions. Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), you’ll be met and privately transferred to your boutique hotel in the heart of San José. The transfer is scheduled to match your flight for a smooth, worry-free arrival.
Check in at the elegant Hotel Grano de Oro, a restored Victorian mansion offering a peaceful urban oasis with leafy courtyards and refined amenities—an ideal start to your nature and culture adventure.
Later today, meet your expert naturalist guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey. The afternoon and evening are yours to relax and enjoy the hotel’s serene spaces before the expedition begins.
This evening, enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at the hotel, the perfect way to connect with your guide and begin your Costa Rica experience.
Overnight: Hotel Grano de Oro
Meals: Dinner
Journey to Tortuguero National Park
Depart early from San José and travel northeast through the lush rainforests of Braulio Carrillo National Park, en route to Costa Rica’s Caribbean lowlands. Enjoy a traditional breakfast along the way, before arriving at the dock in La Pavona.
Board a riverboat and begin your journey into Tortuguero National Park—often called the “Amazon of Costa Rica.” As you glide through winding canals, look for monkeys, toucans, herons, caimans, and other wildlife that thrive in this vibrant ecosystem.
Arrive at Aninga Lodge, nestled between the Caribbean Sea and Tortuguero River. After a welcome cocktail and lunch, explore the colorful village of Tortuguero with your guide. Learn about Afro-Caribbean culture, daily life, and the community’s important role in sea turtle conservation.
Return to the lodge for dinner and a peaceful evening immersed in nature. Far from roads and cities, Tortuguero’s remote beauty sets the tone for your expedition.
Overnight: Aninga Lodge, Tortuguero
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Exploring Tortuguero National Park
Begin the day with a guided boat expedition through the serene canals of Tortuguero National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse and visually stunning reserves. As you navigate the narrow waterways, your expert naturalist guide will help you spot the region’s extraordinary wildlife and interpret its unique rainforest ecosystem.
Tortuguero is one of the most vital nesting sites in the Western Hemisphere for Green Sea Turtles, Leatherbacks, and Hawksbill Turtles. The canal-side vegetation forms immersive, tunnel-like corridors that offer a peaceful and intimate view of the tropical environment.
Keep watch for monkeys, three-toed sloths, toucans, crocodiles, iguanas, anteaters, and countless bird species. Each bend in the waterway reveals another moment of wonder in this natural sanctuary.
After lunch, enjoy a guided nature walk on the lodge’s forested trails, where you’ll connect with the region’s flora and fauna on foot. This is a chance to slow down, observe closely, and appreciate the quiet magic of the rainforest floor.
Overnight: Aninga Lodge, Tortuguero
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From the Rainforest to the Volcano – Journey to
Arenal
After breakfast, board a riverboat for your final journey through Tortuguero’s lush canal system. As you glide through this peaceful waterway, take in the sounds and sights of the rainforest one last time before heading inland.
Upon arrival at the small port, travel by land through Costa Rica’s verdant central corridor. Along the way, stop at El Ceibo, a rustic local restaurant near Guápiles, for a homemade lunch that showcases the authentic flavors of the region.
Continue northwest toward the Arenal region, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano—one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks. Towering over forested hills and farmland, its perfectly conical shape dominates the horizon.
By late afternoon, arrive in La Fortuna. Enjoy a short orientation walk with your guide to learn about this vibrant village’s landscape, culture, and laid-back rhythm of life. Then check in at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, where natural hot springs and tropical gardens offer a luxurious place to unwind.
Cap the evening with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine and Costa Rican hospitality.
Overnight: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, La Fortuna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cultural Immersion in the Heart of Costa Rica
Begin your day in La Fortuna with a serene private Safari Float along the Peñas Blancas River—a rainforest-lined waterway ideal for quiet wildlife observation. Guided by a local naturalist, glide past lush vegetation while scanning for monkeys, iguanas, owls, and the remarkable “Jesus Christ” lizard that runs across the water’s surface.
After this peaceful introduction to Costa Rica’s biodiversity, continue to the countryside home of Doña Mara. Here, in her open-air kitchen, you’ll be welcomed with a tropical drink and guided through a hands-on tortilla-making experience. Shape corn masa into perfect rounds, cook them on a wood-fired stove, and enjoy them warm as part of a traditional Costa Rican lunch.
This intimate encounter offers a glimpse into daily life and reflects the essence of “Pura Vida”—a phrase that captures the spirit of Costa Rican hospitality and simplicity.
Later, return to Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa for a relaxing afternoon. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring regional dishes and the tranquil pace of La Fortuna.
Overnight: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, La Fortuna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Into the Clouds of Monteverde
After breakfast, depart for Monteverde, Costa Rica’s iconic cloud forest destination perched along the continental divide. As you ascend the Tilarán Mountains, the landscape transforms—humid lowlands give way to misty forests, lush hills, and crisp mountain air. This transition signals your arrival at one of the most biodiverse and ethereal regions in Central America.
At the heart of this ecosystem lies Santa Elena, a quiet, welcoming town known for its community of farmers, artists, and conservationists. Here, time slows down, and nature takes center stage amid cool fog and highland tranquility.
Check in at Monteverde Lodge & Gardens, a refined nature retreat surrounded by tropical gardens and private trails. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax, listen for birds in the canopy, or explore the peaceful grounds as you settle into this extraordinary setting.
Overnight: Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens, Santa Elena
This morning, explore the cloud forests of Monteverde with your naturalist guide on a walk through Curi Cancha Reserve—a private sanctuary known for its exceptional birdlife and mix of primary and secondary forest. As you follow the well-maintained trails, watch for species such as the resplendent quetzal, three-wattled bellbird, toucans, hummingbirds, monkeys, and sloths. Your guide will share insights into this unique highland ecosystem.
In the afternoon, choose between two included experiences. For an adrenaline rush, glide through the treetops on a thrilling zip-line canopy tour—the only one in the region fully built within the forest. Or, opt for a peaceful walk along Selvatura’s suspension bridges, offering breathtaking views over the Monteverde Cloud Forest canopy. This experience is ideal for birdwatching and quiet immersion in nature.
Overnight: Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Coffee, Cloud Forest, and Your Final Retreat
After breakfast, depart Monteverde and journey toward Costa Rica’s Central Valley, where fertile volcanic slopes produce some of the world’s most acclaimed coffee. En route, visit the renowned Doka Estate, located on the flanks of Poás Volcano, for a hands-on introduction to Costa Rica’s most iconic crop.
With guidance from local experts, walk through coffee fields and learn about every step of cultivation—from seed germination to drying and roasting. Discover how elevation and microclimates influence the flavor profiles that make Costa Rican coffee so sought-after. Your visit includes tastings of fresh coffee, chocolate, and artisan liqueurs, plus a stop at the estate’s butterfly garden and bonsai collection.
In the afternoon, arrive at Xandari Costa Rica, a serene eco-retreat nestled in the hills above Alajuela. This boutique hotel is set on a 40-acre estate featuring tropical gardens, panoramic valley views, and private trails leading to hidden waterfalls. Over 140 bird species thrive here, making it a favorite for nature lovers.
Spend your final evening in quiet reflection or exploring the property’s artful architecture and wellness spaces—an ideal close to your Costa Rica journey.
Overnight: Xandari Costa Rica, Alajuela
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departure from Costa Rica
After breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to say farewell to Costa Rica—a land of cloud forests, volcanoes, rich traditions, and extraordinary biodiversity.
At the scheduled time, your private driver and naturalist guide will accompany you to Juan Santamaría International Airport for your return flight home.
We trust that you leave with unforgettable memories, a deeper connection to nature, and the warmth of Costa Rica in your heart.
Meals: Breakfast
Lodgings
Hotel Grano de Oro (4-star boutique)
Originally a private Victorian residence built at the turn of the 20th century, Hotel Grano de Oro is now one of San José’s most elegant boutique hotels. Its name—“Grain of Gold”—honors Costa Rica’s prized coffee bean and reflects the hotel’s dedication to exceptional detail and service.
This beautifully restored tropical mansion blends historic charm with modern comfort. Guests enjoy 34 unique rooms and suites, serene courtyards, lush gardens, and personalized hospitality. The hotel’s renowned restaurant serves gourmet Costa Rican and international cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
Located on a quiet street near San José’s historic center, the property also features rooftop Jacuzzis, tranquil lounges, and easy access to the city’s cultural highlights—making it an ideal place to begin or end your Costa Rica journey.
Aninga Lodge (3-star eco-lodge)
Nestled along the lush canals of Tortuguero, Aninga Lodge offers an ideal retreat for nature lovers seeking comfort in one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions. The lodge features 32 spacious bungalows equipped with private bathrooms, hot water, and ceiling fans, designed for a restful stay in harmony with the rainforest.
Guests can enjoy authentic Costa Rican cuisine at the lodge’s on-site restaurant, relax with a drink at the bar, or unwind in the refreshing pool and spa, which offers massage treatments surrounded by nature. A well-maintained forest trail invites quiet exploration, with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna just steps from your room.
Located just 3.2 km from Tortuguero National Park, the lodge is perfectly positioned for wildlife excursions and boat tours through the region’s famous canals. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and a range of guided activities and transportation services are offered to help guests make the most of their time in Tortuguero.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa (5-star)
Nestled in the heart of Costa Rican tropical rainforest in a truly mystical setting at the base of the Arenal Volcano. Tabacon provides luxurious accommodations with inspired new designs and a fresh service philosophy accompanied with elevated standards. The resort´s unique healing thermal mineral spring river emerge from the volcanic Earth forming Costa Rica´s largest network of naturally flowing hot springs. Explore Shangri-La Gardens the perfect hideaway exclusively for our hotel guests over 18 years of age, delight your senses with world-class cuisine inspired by local fares or experience a memorable spa treatment in an open air bungalow.
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens (4-star
superior)
Perched near Costa Rica’s continental divide, Monteverde Lodge & Gardens sits at the heart of the cloud forest, where misty, ground-level clouds envelop the lush highlands year-round. Just steps from Santa Elena yet feeling worlds away, the lodge features 28 beautifully appointed rooms, a secluded swimming pool, and tranquil designer gardens.
Surrounded by a private reserve rich in wildlife, the lodge invites guests to explore nearby trails with expert naturalist guides—revealing orchids, toucans, sloths, and the hidden magic of Monteverde’s cloud forest ecosystem.
Xandari Costa Rica (4-star boutique)
Set on a lush 40-acre plantation overlooking Costa Rica’s Central Valley, Xandari is a boutique resort known for its panoramic views, tropical gardens, and unique design. The property offers 24 spacious villas—ranging from Prima to Star Villas—each with private terraces and vibrant décor.
Guests can enjoy trails, waterfalls, three lap pools, two poolside Jacuzzis, and five spa Jacuzzis with sweeping valley views. The on-site restaurant serves fresh, healthy cuisine, blending Costa Rican, Californian, and Mediterranean flavors in a serene, nature-filled setting.
When to go
This expedition has been carefully timed to take place during one of Costa Rica’s most favorable travel windows: from mid-January through early April. This period marks the heart of the dry season across most of the country, offering warm, sunny days and minimal rainfall—ideal for rainforest exploration, wildlife observation, and scenic overland journeys.
In the Caribbean lowlands of Tortuguero, conditions remain warm and humid, with light showers that sustain the lush rainforest. Wildlife sightings are excellent, especially for monkeys, sloths, toucans, and caimans, with green sea turtle activity beginning as early as March.
In the Arenal region, skies are typically clear and temperatures comfortable, providing outstanding conditions for photography, nature walks, and enjoying the thermal springs.
Monteverde’s cloud forests are especially magical this time of year. Crisp, misty mornings and cooler afternoons create the perfect conditions for spotting resplendent quetzals and other highland species during their most active season.
Overall, mid-January through early April offers the most reliable weather and exceptional natural encounters across Costa Rica’s most iconic ecosystems.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!
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