Costa Rica: Ocean Waves & Sunsets
8 days from San Jose to San Jose
From $ 611
Duration8 days

Hit two of Costa Rica's famed features — volcanoes and beaches — on this exciting trip that isn't too hard on the wallet. Get the adrenaline pumping in La Fortuna, then travel to Santa Teresa and relax on the beach. While you're free to choose your own adventure with optional adrenaline-inducing activities like waterfall rappelling, your accommodation and transportation are included. Our expert CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) will help you make the most of your time. Take a trip that's packed with just the essentials — eight days of maximum Costa Rica at minimum cost.

This tour is operated by

  • Duration: 8 days
    Service level: Basic
  • Starts in: San Jose
    Physical Grading: Light
  • Ends in: San Jose
    Ages: 18+
Costa Rica on a Shoestring - Tour Map

Itinerary

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Day 1: San José

Start place: San Jose

Please try to arrive before 6pm for an important group meeting where you can meet the CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and the other group members.
Arrive at any time.

End place: San Jose

Day 2: San José/La Fortuna

Start place: San Jose

La Fortuna, the town near the foot of Arenal Volcano, is an excellent base for adventure. Optional activities in this area abound.

Hike the area’s nature trails, swim in chilly La Fortuna waterfall or go canyoning (rappelling) and catch a bird’s eye view of the forest greenery. Other optional activities include full-day white water rafting on the Toro or Balsa Rivers, mountain biking, caving, horseback riding, or a tour of the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge.
Travel to La Fortuna with stunning Arenal Volcano as its backdrop. Options abound—soak in Arenal's hot springs or get the adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting or waterfall rappelling.

End place: La Fortuna

Day 3: La Fortuna

Start place: La Fortuna

Enjoy a full day in La Fortuna to relax or experience some of the many optional activities available.

End place: La Fortuna

Day 4: La Fortuna/Santa Teresa

Start place: La Fortuna

Head to the Pacific coast for some much needed beach time and relaxation. Playa Santa Teresa and Malpais are small towns frequented by surfers. Opt to hit the waves, or visit Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve – take a hike to explore the area or check out the snorkelling at Secret Beach.
Travel to the best of Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Kick back and enjoy this beach paradise.

End place: Santa Teresa

Day 5-6: Santa Teresa

Start place: Santa Teresa

Check out Cabo Blanco NP to spot some wildlife, hike to the nearby waterfall for a dip or a jump in the local swimming hole or simply lounge on the beach.

Take a day trip to the beautiful Isla Tortuga, where you can snorkel along a volcanic rock reef or check out the nearby surf havens of Mal Pais and Santa Teresa. Adrenaline junkies can take their pick of activities as well - surfing, ziplining, boogie boarding, horseback riding or scuba diving are all options. On the other hand, if relaxation is what you seek, opt for a yoga class or take a leisurely hike to search for orchids.

Want to learn how to surf in Costa Rica? Pre-book the Santa Teresa Surf Lesson on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
Try out surfing, visit Cabo Blanco NP, or just chill out on the beach. Don't miss the night life.

End place: Santa Teresa

Day 7: Santa Teresa/San José

Start place: Santa Teresa

Squeeze in morning beach time before embarking on our journey back to the capital, San José. Arrive in the evening (approx 9pm) in time to shower and head out for a final night on the town.
Enjoy a morning at the beach, then transfer back to the capital for a final evening with the group.

End place: San Jose

Day 8: San José

Start place: San Jose

Depart at any time.

End place: San Jose

Inclusions

Included

  • Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Discover Moment: La Fortuna
  • Beach time in Santa Teresa
  • Free time in La Fortuna
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  • Transport

    Local bus, Ferry, Taxi, Walking
  • Accommodation

    Simple hotels (3 nts), Hostels (4 nts, multi-share)

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