Costa Rican Adventure: White Water Rafting, Zip Lines & Snorkeling
Adrenaline pumping fun in paradise
Feel a rush of endorphins as you zip line, snorkel, and hike your way through Costa Rica! Pack a pair of comfortable shoes and lots of sunscreen for this 7-night vacation taking you to San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio. If you're up for an adventure in paradise, there's no other place quite like Costa Rica.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 1 night in San Jose at the Sleep Inn San Jose, or similar
- Full-day transfer/tour from San Jose to Arenal Volcano area, with Pacuare River white water rafting
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, or similar
- Half-day Sky Adventures Park (Zip line)
- Transfer from Arenal Volcano to Monteverde Cloud Forest, including boat crossing on Arenal Lake
- 1 night in the Monteverde Cloud Forest at the Monteverde Country Lodge, or similar
- Evening Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Tour
- Transfer from Monteverde Cloud Forest to Manuel Antonio
- 2 nights in Manuel Antonio at the Hotel Villas Lirio, or similar
- Half-day Catamaran Ocean King Tour, with lunch
- Transfer from Manuel Antonio hotel to San Jose hotel
- 1 night in San Jose at the Sleep Inn San Jose, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches
Great Ways to Explore
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White water raft on the Pacuare River as you take in the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
- Soar high above the tropical rainforest and wave to Arenal Volcano on a zip line.
-
Experience Monteverde's wildlife come to life as you tour the cloud forest at night. Watch out for the nocturnal tapir!
-
Set sail on a catamaran at Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica's lush Caribbean coast.
-
See parrotfish, starfish, angelfish and more as you snorkel in the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Despite its small size, Costa Rica has a varied topography ranging from volcanic mountain ranges to lush rainforest, offering countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Get in touch with nature (and your wild side!) in seven nights as you experience Costa Rica.
Arrive in San Jose then embark on your first expedition to Pacuare River, considered one of the top rivers in the world for white water rafting. Strap on a vest and get on the strong current as you pass lush tropical vegetation and even a monkey or two!
Make your way to Costa Rica's northern plains and be greeted with the impressive (but dormant) Arenal Volcano. Visit Sky Adventures Park and ascend a mountain by aerial tram, then swoop down on an exhilarating zip line tour. Travel by boat across Arenal Lake to your next destination, Monteverde. Known for its rich tropical cloud forest, Monterverde is Costa Rica's green jewel. Experience the sights and sounds of Monteverde's wildlife as you tour the cloud forest at night.
Your last destination is Manuel Antonio National Park on the central Pacific coast. With its expansive white-sand beaches backed by evergreen forest, Manuel Antonio makes the ideal place to conclude your vacation. Sail the crystal clear waters by catamaran and see Costa Rica's rich marine life when you go snorkeling. Soak up as much sun and surf before concluding your adventure in San Jose.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 1 night in San Jose at the Sleep Inn San Jose, or similar
- Full-day transfer/tour from San Jose to Arenal Volcano area, with Pacuare River white water rafting
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, or similar
- Half-day Sky Adventures Park (Zip line)
- Transfer from Arenal Volcano to Monteverde Cloud Forest, including boat crossing on Arenal Lake
- 1 night in the Monteverde Cloud Forest at the Monteverde Country Lodge, or similar
- Evening Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Tour
- Transfer from Monteverde Cloud Forest to Manuel Antonio
- 2 nights in Manuel Antonio at the Hotel Villas Lirio, or similar
- Half-day Catamaran Ocean King Tour, with lunch
- Transfer from Manuel Antonio hotel to San Jose hotel
- 1 night in San Jose at the Sleep Inn San Jose, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches
-
White water raft on the Pacuare River as you take in the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
- Soar high above the tropical rainforest and wave to Arenal Volcano on a zip line.
-
Experience Monteverde's wildlife come to life as you tour the cloud forest at night. Watch out for the nocturnal tapir!
-
Set sail on a catamaran at Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica's lush Caribbean coast.
-
See parrotfish, starfish, angelfish and more as you snorkel in the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Despite its small size, Costa Rica has a varied topography ranging from volcanic mountain ranges to lush rainforest, offering countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Get in touch with nature (and your wild side!) in seven nights as you experience Costa Rica.
Arrive in San Jose then embark on your first expedition to Pacuare River, considered one of the top rivers in the world for white water rafting. Strap on a vest and get on the strong current as you pass lush tropical vegetation and even a monkey or two!
Make your way to Costa Rica's northern plains and be greeted with the impressive (but dormant) Arenal Volcano. Visit Sky Adventures Park and ascend a mountain by aerial tram, then swoop down on an exhilarating zip line tour. Travel by boat across Arenal Lake to your next destination, Monteverde. Known for its rich tropical cloud forest, Monterverde is Costa Rica's green jewel. Experience the sights and sounds of Monteverde's wildlife as you tour the cloud forest at night.
Your last destination is Manuel Antonio National Park on the central Pacific coast. With its expansive white-sand beaches backed by evergreen forest, Manuel Antonio makes the ideal place to conclude your vacation. Sail the crystal clear waters by catamaran and see Costa Rica's rich marine life when you go snorkeling. Soak up as much sun and surf before concluding your adventure in San Jose.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Upgraded hotels in all locations!
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Day 1. Welcome to San Jose!
Land at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose and begin your Costa Rica adventure! A Swiss Travel representative will meet you upon your arrival and provide you with all the necessary documentation, itinerary and the main contact information. Transfer to your San Jose hotel and rest up before your vacation goes full speed tomorrow.
Transfer to San Jose hotel
Escape to this relaxing retreat in the heart of downtown San Jose! You'll forget you're staying in a bustling city, as the only things you'll feel at this hotel are peace and serenity. Just 20 minutes from the Juan Santamaria International Airport, this convenient hotel is surrounded by lush parks, nightlife, cultural attractions, restaurants, and more. Enjoy sweeping views of Paseo Las Damas Avenue, one of the most historic spots in San Jose!
Check-in with the hotel's friendly reception team, then make your way up to your spacious room. Open the door to contemporary decor, complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a refrigerator, a microwave, LED TV, and much more. Realize you forgot something? Not to worry. Head down to the 24-hour convenience and souvenir shop! While you're down there, grab a cup of coffee, offered free all day and night. Work all your stresses away at the modern fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at the 24-hour Magnolia Restaurant, and save room for a complimentary breakfast buffet in the morning! Need a ride to the airport? You're in luck! Ask the helpful staff about the hotel's free airport shuttle.
Experience luxurious comfort in the heart of San Jose at this contemporary, convenient hotel. Walk into the lobby and be greeted by bright colors, stylish decor, and a friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and find large, comfortable beds, free WiFi, plasma TVs, and tons of other modern amenities. Feeling a bit hungry? Raid the minibar, call room service, or grab a bite to eat at the elegant on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the outdoor pool! Jump in and make a splash, then lounge in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the gym, or explore the area. At the Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, you'll always feel the perfect balance of entertained and relaxed.
Experience elegant luxury at the stylish Radisson San Jose, located less than 4 km from the city's bustling downtown area. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then admire the hotel's trendy decor as you walk to your room. Open your door to free WiFi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, bottled water, a refrigerator, and much more. Feel secluded in your cozy room that boasts blackout curtains, large comfy beds, and gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Unpack your suitcase and head to the outdoor pool! Lounge in the hot sun with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in and make a splash. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at either of the hotel's two on-site restaurants: Acuarelas Restaurant or Cafe Tropical. After dinner, dance the night away at buzzing Bar Jobo, the hotel's lively lounge that offers live music and handcrafted cocktails. Take a walk through the lush garden, then take in the pleasant breeze from the outdoor patio.
Day 2. San Jose - Pacuare River - Arenal Volcano
Early in the morning, drive from San Jose to the Pacuare River for a white water rafting adventure! In the afternoon, arrive in La Fortuna Village and be greeted with the mighty Arenal Volcano. Active since 1969, Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica's many highlights. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Transfer to Arenal Volcano area
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa is committed to 100% nature-loving consciousness, and the vision of being an ecotourism model. Located in the small, friendly town of Fortuna, it offers amazing, close views of the Arenal Volcano) one of the youngest and most active volcanoes in northern Costa Rica), Cerro Chato (an inactive volcano next to Arenal), and the majestic Los Perdidos, surrounded by mountains. The hotel boasts a distinctive design, with rustic colonial-type architecture.
Get away to the exotic retreat of the Arenal Paraiso Resort and Spa, which offers its guests a complete spa and wellness center, with massages, 2 saunas, and a fitness center. Those at the Paraiso can also enjoy on-site restaurants and shops, buffet breakfast, free Wi-Fi available in shared spaces, 13 pools with thermo-mineral water, a standard swimming pool, and natural walking paths. Private parking and car rental services are also available.
Rooms all feature amazing views of the Arenal Volcano, as well as a terrace or balcony, a cable TV, a coffee maker, and a provate bathroom including a hairdryer and toiletries. This resort offers the serenity of nature, and is a 2-hour drive away from Juan Santamaria International Airport.
Hotel Arenal Springs is located near natural hot springs in Fortuna, a 20 minute drive from the Arenal Volcano site. Soak in rich mineral waters in the middle of Costa Rica's beautiful tropical rainforest! You'll never be bored because this hotel offers a wide variety of activities from zip lining to river rafting to mountain biking.
In addition to the hot springs, the hotel features three outdoor swimming pools including a children's pool. Unwind with a drink at one of the hotel's bars, including a poolside bar and a bar/lounge. Dine on international, Italian, and Japanese cuisine at three on-site restaurants. Bright and airy rooms feature flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, terraces, private bathrooms and views of the garden and Arenal Volcano and the garden.
Pacuare River white water rafting and lunch
Nothing beats the thrill of white water rafting on one of the most exotic and scenic rivers in the world! Experience the tropical rainforest as you raft through miles of Class III-IV white water. Located on Costa Rica’s Caribbean slope, the Pacuare River borders the Talamanca Mountain Range and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including parrots, toucans, deer, jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, butterflies, and more.
A professional guide and the right equipment will be waiting upon your arrival at the river, and after some safety instructions, you'll embark on this incredible rafting journey. After a picnic lunch, you’ll launch the rafts again, stopping to explore side streams, striking waterfalls, and pools with a natural waterslide! When you reach the end, change into dry clothes and head to the drop-off point to continue by land towards the northern lowlands.
Day 3. Arenal Volcano
Spend a morning zip lining through Arenal at Sky Adventures Park, then explore the area in the afternoon at your leisure. Visit Arenal Volcano National Park and hike the beautiful surroundings leading you towards waterfalls and hot springs.
Other attractions include Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, Venado Caves, and La Fortuna Waterfall. Explore these on your own or book a guided tour from your hotel.
Half-day Sky Adventures Park (Zip line)
Get your adrenaline pumping at Sky Adventures Arenal Park in La Fortuna, one of two adventure parks in Costa Rica. Ascent over the top of the rainforest by the aerial Sky Tram gondola, enjoying the beautiful views of Arenal Lake. Hear interesting tidbits about the region's flora and fauna as you reach the observation deck at the highest point of the reserve. Descend from the top by with a thrilling canopy tour (Zip Lines), taking you past canyons and and in between treetops. Get a bird's eye view of the surrounding rainforest like no other!
Day 4. Arenal Volcano - Monteverde
Depart Arenal Volcano in the morning and transfer to Monteverde Cloud Forest by boat across Arenal Lake! You’ll then travel by car through the Tilaran Mountain Range as you enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. Check into your hotel in Monteverde, and later that night enjoy a thrilling night tour in the cloud forest.
Transfer from Arenal Volcano area to Monteverde
Boat across Arenal Lake!
During your transfer to Monteverde, enjoy a scenic boat crossing of Arenal Lake.
Located less than 10 minutes away from the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and within walking distance from downtown Santa Elena, Monteverde Country Lodge is the perfect option for those looking for cozy lodging and easy access to the stunning region. Providing guests with comfortable facilities and a warm environment, the lodge offers authentic Costa Rican hospitality. The grounds, neatly keep gardens, and cozy wood panelled rooms give the feel of a true mountain lodge.
Book a tour of the Monteverde Cheese Factory at the tour desk and dine on fresh cuisine at the restaurant. Guests of Monteverde Country Lodge can enjoy free access to facilities at it's sister property Hotel Poco a Poco, including an indoor pool, gym, hot tub and kids’ club.
The award-winning Cala Lodge is located 5 minutes' drive from Santa Elena town center, and 4.9 miles from Monteverde. Other nearby attractions include the Selvatura Adventure Park, Arenal Eco Zoo, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.Â
Surrounded by nature, the 7.4-acre Cala Lodge property offers trails, reading and rest areas, and stunning mountain views. Guestrooms feature rustic-style decor and full private bathrooms. Some suites include a bathtub and a balcony. Visitors can enjoy unlimited access to fresh bed linens and bath towels.
Other amenities on-site include a bird-watching deck area, tour desk, mini-bar in all rooms, and beverage sale at the front desk.Â
Hotel de Montaña Monteverde is nestled in the Pacific Province of Puntarenas, sitting at a comfortable altitude of 4,500 feet above sea level. The hotel boasts 42 cozy rooms, a conference room, plus a bar and restaurant serving authentic Costa Rican cuisine.
A 15-acre private forest adjoins the hotel, offering guests stunning views and a network of trails to explore. The forest also features a charming pond where guests can relax and enjoy the tranquility. Guestrooms are thoughtfully designed and comfortable, providing guests with all the necessary amenities to unwind after a long day of hiking in the Monteverde mountains.
Hotel de Montaña Monteverde provides guests with guided tours of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, horseback riding excursions, laundry services, a gift shop, and free parking. The hotel has earned both a Cultural Star from the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports and the XVIII International Trophy for Tourism, Hospitality, and Gastronomy.Â
Evening Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Tour
Nighttime is when Monteverde's brilliant wildlife comes out to play. Hike among an astonishing variety of plants, over 450 species of birds, and countless mammals at Monteverde Cloud Forest Private Reserve. Providing a habitat for hundreds of species of flora and fauna, the reserve is an important link in the growing network of protected areas in Costa Rica. Discover the amazing ecosystems that can thrive all within one region and admire the unique life that coexists with one another. On your night tour, keep an eye out for sleeping toucans and Baird's tapirs!
Day 5. Monteverde - Manuel Antonio
Today you'll head to Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific Coast, one of the most popular beach destinations in Costa Rica. The scenic drive takes you via mountain roads leading to the majestic shores of the Pacific Ocean.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day on Manuel Antonio's two amazing beaches, Playa Manuel Antonio, on the ocean side, and the slightly less visited Playa Espadilla Sur.
Transfer to Manuel Antonio
Nestled in a lush mountain garden setting within Manuel Antonio National Park, Hotel Villas Lirio offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms with all the amenities you'll need for a wonderful stay. Make a splash in the sparkling swimming pool surrounded by tropical plants, or hit the game room if it starts to rain. With cable TV, free WiFi, on-site dining and traditional Costa Rican decor, you'll feel right at home among nature.Â
Sitting on over 20 acres of lush forests, Teva Hotel & Jungle Reserve provides everything needed for an adventure vacation in Costa Rica. The reserve offers different hiking trails, food gardens, and a ton of botanical gems for guests to explore.
There is also a swimming pool with a view of the jungle, and a restaurant that specializes in Moroccan-Latin cuisine. Additionally, there is a yoga shala and meditation nooks where guests can re-center themselves or choose to join a fitness and wellness class.
Guest rooms include a private bathroom, TV, refrigerator, and air-conditioning. Other amenities include a microwave, ceiling fan, Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping.
The hotel is located in Quepos about 1.8 miles away from Canopy Safari and 2.5 miles from Manuel Antonio National Park.
Day 6. Manuel Antonio
Today you'll enjoy a half-day Catamaran excursion! Sail the sea and snorkel in a secluded bay before returning to shore. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the beach or visiting the seaside village of Quepos.
Half-day Catamaran Ocean King Tour, with lunch
Set sail towards the horizon and cruise over sapphire-hued waves on a catamaran in Manuel Antonio National Park. Departing from Quepos village, you'll glide around the back of the park as you pass islands, cliffs, and rock formations. Admire aviary nesting grounds and marine wildlife as you sip a cold beverage on board.
After touring the coastline, your captain will set anchor on Bisanz beach where you can snorkel at this secluded bay. See if you can spot parrotfish, starfish, angelfish, and dolphins! Savor a barbecue lunch on board while admiring the lovely waterscapes, then head back to the dock where transportation will take you back to your hotel.
Day 7. Manuel Antonio - San Jose
Spend the morning enjoying the last bit of sun and surf before transferring back to San Jose. See Costa Rica's capital at night and visit the Plaza de la Cultura with its stunning National Theater (Teatro Nacional). Then sample the local delicacies like casado, a dish of white rice, beans, plantains, picadillo, salad and meat.
Transfer to San Jose
Escape to this relaxing retreat in the heart of downtown San Jose! You'll forget you're staying in a bustling city, as the only things you'll feel at this hotel are peace and serenity. Just 20 minutes from the Juan Santamaria International Airport, this convenient hotel is surrounded by lush parks, nightlife, cultural attractions, restaurants, and more. Enjoy sweeping views of Paseo Las Damas Avenue, one of the most historic spots in San Jose!
Check-in with the hotel's friendly reception team, then make your way up to your spacious room. Open the door to contemporary decor, complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a refrigerator, a microwave, LED TV, and much more. Realize you forgot something? Not to worry. Head down to the 24-hour convenience and souvenir shop! While you're down there, grab a cup of coffee, offered free all day and night. Work all your stresses away at the modern fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at the 24-hour Magnolia Restaurant, and save room for a complimentary breakfast buffet in the morning! Need a ride to the airport? You're in luck! Ask the helpful staff about the hotel's free airport shuttle.
Experience luxurious comfort in the heart of San Jose at this contemporary, convenient hotel. Walk into the lobby and be greeted by bright colors, stylish decor, and a friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and find large, comfortable beds, free WiFi, plasma TVs, and tons of other modern amenities. Feeling a bit hungry? Raid the minibar, call room service, or grab a bite to eat at the elegant on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the outdoor pool! Jump in and make a splash, then lounge in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the gym, or explore the area. At the Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, you'll always feel the perfect balance of entertained and relaxed.
Experience elegant luxury at the stylish Radisson San Jose, located less than 4 km from the city's bustling downtown area. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then admire the hotel's trendy decor as you walk to your room. Open your door to free WiFi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, bottled water, a refrigerator, and much more. Feel secluded in your cozy room that boasts blackout curtains, large comfy beds, and gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Unpack your suitcase and head to the outdoor pool! Lounge in the hot sun with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in and make a splash. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at either of the hotel's two on-site restaurants: Acuarelas Restaurant or Cafe Tropical. After dinner, dance the night away at buzzing Bar Jobo, the hotel's lively lounge that offers live music and handcrafted cocktails. Take a walk through the lush garden, then take in the pleasant breeze from the outdoor patio.
Located just northwest of downtown San José, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica offers a modern retreat near local markets, restaurants, and shops. Land at Juan SantamarÃa International Airport (SJO), and take our free shuttle to the hotel, where you can kick off your vacation beside our two outdoor pools or at the on-site Mambi Restaurant. Ready to explore? Delve into local history at the Pueblo Antiguo, or browse the stores at Plaza Real Cariari.
Day 8. Depart Costa Rica
Your Costa Rican adventure comes to an end today. Transfer back to San Jose airport and fly home.