Hike and Drive Costa Rica

You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel in San Jose.  If time permits take a walk around local area and soak up the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle of the locals. There are some great restaurants and bars to check out nearby.

Your car will be delivered to your hotel this morning to begin your journey to San Gerardo de Dota. The beautiful cloud forests of San Gerardo are renowned for exceptional birdwatching and are a prime habitat for the resplendent quetzal. On arrival you may wish to hike one of the many trails surrounding your lodge, which sits in the midst of a private reserve.

Today you’ll embark on a half day guided hike to the Paramo, a landscape like no other in Costa Rica. The Talamanca Continental Divide is the highest and wildest non-volcanic mountain range in Central America. You’ll begin in the highlands where your guide will explain the natural history, geography and wildlife of the area. During the hike you’ll take in amazing panoramic views from the mountainous divide, before heading up into cloud-shrouded forest which provides a unique wildlife habitat. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy your surroundings.

An early start this morning will take you in search of the resplendent quetzal. A real treat for nature lovers, the iridescent tail-feathers of this beautiful bird have to be seen to be believed. Its dazzling colours are intensified as the first rays of sun infiltrate the forest, revealing this mythical bird in all its glory. After your tour enjoy breakfast at the lodge before taking the scenic drive to Turrialba. Turrialba, known for its rich agricultural heritage, is surrounded by coffee plantations and sugar cane fields. But most eye-catching is the impressive Turrialba Volcano. You may wish to hike to the volcano this afternoon, conditions permitting.

A bike tour is included today, cycling through the beautiful landscapes of CATIE (the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center). Your guide will lead you through fields of tropical fruit, coffee, cacao, and ornamental plants, and talk about sustainable farming in Costa Rica. You may spot various bird species and wildlife along the way. This afternoon is at leisure to relax or explore further – a visit to the fascinating archeological site of Guayabo is recommended.

Today you’ll make your way to the verdant region of Sarapiquí, known for its rich biodiversity, extensive rainforests, winding rivers, and abundant wildlife. Upon arrival you’ll join a guided natural history walk showcasing the many attractions of Braulio Carrillo National Park. This exclusive tour offers a deep dive into the park’s rich biodiversity and ecological significance. Discover lush rainforests, towering trees, and diverse wildlife, including exotic birds, mammals, and reptiles. Learn about the park’s conservation efforts and its importance as a biological corridor in Costa Rica.

Continue to the hidden gem of Bajos del Toro, driving through changing landscapes from lush rainforests to mountainous terrain. Bajos del Toro lies nestled in a volcanic valley and is known for its stunning waterfalls and vibrant flora. Your home for the next 2 nights is at Bosque de Paz, set on a 1000-acre cloud forest reserve laced with hiking trails just waiting to be explored.

Today is free to explore at your own pace. You may wish to take a self-guided hike to Cataratas Del Toro, an impressive waterfall that plummets 300 feet into an extinct volcanic crater. Or choose the slightly easier walk to the beautiful blue Las Gemalas Waterfall. You could visit Poas Volcano and trek to the summit to admire its impressive crater (volcanic activity permitting). Or perhaps enjoy a leisurely day at the lodge, exploring its serene gardens and trails or simply sitting back and taking in your breathtaking surroundings.

After breakfast today you’ll depart Bajos del Toro and travel to the enchanting region of Río Celeste, famous for its striking blue river. Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, this area offers a wealth of optional activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the beautiful waterfall and soaking in natural hot springs.

A guided tour of Tenorio Volcano National Park is included today. Your adventure starts with a hike through pristine rainforest, spotting diverse wildlife along the way. You’ll visit the stunning Río Celeste Waterfall and ‘Los Teñideros’, where the river’s unique colour is formed. Your guide will provide insights into the region’s fascinating geology and share local legends as you hike. You can pause for breath to take in spectacular views of Tenorio Volcano before heading back to the lodge. The rest of the day is at leisure.

After experiencing the natural wonders of Río Celeste, your journey continues to Rincón de la Vieja. Renowned for its dynamic volcanic landscapes, here you’ll find fumaroles, mud pools and natural hot springs. From your idyllic eco-retreat you can visit a butterfly garden, frog habitat, and serpentarium to see exotic native wildlife. Or finish your day blissfully relaxing in the natural hot springs. Be sure to try the volcanic mud bath!

Today you’ll join a guided hike into the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Rincon de la Vieja is the only active volcano in the Guanacaste Mountain Range and the national park features diverse flora and fauna across varied habitats. You’ll tackle the Las Pailas trail, winding through dense jungle with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, before passing through open fields. Your guide will unveil the forest’s secrets, highlighting the park’s impressive biodiversity. As the trail progresses, the forest thins, revealing active volcanic features such as bubbling mud pools, steaming sulphur ponds, and lively fumaroles. A fitting hike to end your Costa Rican adventure!

Your Hike and Drive ends today as you drop off your rental car at Liberia Airport for your onward journey.