Costa Rica: Tortuguero to Santa Teresa 18 days
18 days
Costa Rica Uncovered - Rainforest, Cloud Forest & Pacific Coast
Costa Rica rewards a slower pace, with 18 days to move between rainforest, cloud forest and the Pacific coast. Begin in Tortuguero, where waterways and dense forest provide an immersive introduction to the country’s wildlife before heading inland through the rainforest. Around Río Celeste, volcanic landscapes and forest trails offer a different perspective, with time to explore the area at a relaxed pace. Continue south towards the Nicoya Peninsula, where coastal wilderness and mangrove waterways bring another change of scenery. The journey ends around Santa Teresa, settling into the rhythm of the Pacific coast with time for the beach, surfing, yoga or simply enjoying the surroundings.
Start planning your tailor-made holiday to Costa Rica or speak to a specialist 0203 930 3998
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Journey Route
DAYS 1-4
San Jose & Central Valley
Settle into San José before travelling by boat through winding canals into Tortuguero National Park. Explore the park's waterways by boat and kayak with naturalist guides, spotting monkeys, sloths, caimans and birdlife, with options including a hike up Cerro Tortuguero, a twilight walk and a visit to Tortuguero village.
DAYS 5-8
Pacuare River
Raft down the Pacuare River, making the journey to a remote rainforest eco-lodge. Spend four nights immersed in the forest, choosing from canopy ziplining, tropical canyoning, a Cabécar cultural experience and dawn birdwatching walks, with guides sharing insight into the rainforest's biodiversity and conservation projects.
DAYS 9-11
Rio Celeste
Continue to the cloud forest near Río Celeste, exploring suspension bridges through primary rainforest in search of sloths, monkeys, coatis and the endangered Baird's tapir. Hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park to Río Celeste's striking blue waterfall, passing volcanic craters, sulphur springs and the point where two rivers meet.
DAYS 12-14
Guanacaste & Nicoya
Travel to the Nicoya Peninsula and settle into a beachfront property in Santa Teresa. Hike through the Curu Wildlife Refuge, spotting howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, coatis and iguanas, then paddle through the mangroves of the Gulf of Nicoya with a local guide, watching for herons, kingfishers and monkeys.
DAYS 15-18
Santa Teresa
Spend your final days at leisure in Santa Teresa, with time to surf, practise yoga, relax by the pool or unwind on the beach as the Pacific sunsets bring each day to a close. Transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to San José and onward journey home.
