Charm and Nature

Luxury travel in Costa Rica with guide

What could be more complete than traveling to Costa Rica with a local English-speaking guide to show you around the country?

In the Quetzal region, you can observe the sacred Mayan bird. Then, in the Uvita region and Marino Ballena Park, you can discover the Sierpe mangrove, the largest in the country. The fauna here is close and dense. You can also admire the nauyaca waterfall and cool off at its foot. 

Afterwards, your guide will take you to a remote spot and a genuine vanilla hacienda. You’ll learn all about the cultivation, reproduction and harvesting of this coveted spice.

You’ll head a little further north, into the Monteverde cloud forest. The eponymous reserve, hummingbirds and orchids will fill you with wonder. 

Finally, at Arenal, you’ll be delighted by Costa Rican culture and the region’s thermal waters. 


SAN JOSE
Highlights: Gold Museum – Jade Museum – Central Market – National Theatre – Barrio Amon and its colonial architecture

Day 1 : Villanueva de la Boca del Monte, formerly known as San José, is the capital of Costa Rica. At an altitude of 1,150 m, the city enjoys one of the 3 best climates in the world: 23°C on average! Some districts are worth a visit, such as Barrio Amon, with its neoclassical architecture, and Barrio Escalante, with its many small restaurants.
Since the 1970s, the capital has experienced an economic boom, with suburban expansion and a strong presence of universities. San José, with its 1,500,000 inhabitants, is a cosmopolitan city.
A little disconcerting at first, it’s easy to fall under the spell of this constantly bustling city. A capital full of life and color.

Landing to the airport. A private driver will be waiting for you. He will give you your roadbook. and your SIM card that can fit any smartphone

• 1 night at hotel Presidente

– Accommodation: Premium for 2.


DOTA – SAN GERARDO DE DOTA
Highlights: Quetzal watching – Ornithology – Fishing – Hiking – Discovering the Páramo (typical high-altitude biotope)

From Day 2 to 11 : 11 days with Your naturalist driver-guide (Included : Accommodations + meals + reserve/park entrance fees + fuel + parking + tolls). 

Day 2 : Check-in for your vehicule

From Day 2 to 11 : renting of one Cat. Standard – Rav 4/Koleos/Tucson – 4×4 Automatic Comprehensive insurance with excess waiver, two drivers, unlimited mileage

ON THE AGENDA :

• Coffee Experience Tour – Duration : 2:30 : Guided tour of the coffee cooperative to learn about the processes involved in washing, drying, roasting and even packaging the golden beans. Tasting at the end of the tour in the coffee shop adjacent to the Cooperative. The best times to visit the plantation are: November to March for the harvest, late April – early May to admire the flowering.

From San Isidro up the Interamerican towards San José, you’re on the road to Cerro de la Muerte. You’ll want to stop off at the Savegre River, one of the best places to admire the splendid quetzal and sample a trout, a local specialty.
At higher altitudes, you can contemplate the Paramo, a very special type of high-altitude vegetation. Nestled in the valleys, several small rural villages open their doors to you: San Gerardo de Dota, Santa Maria de Dota, Copey de Dota, Providencia, etc.
Quetzals are the emblems of this magnificent mountain region, but hikers and fishermen alike will be delighted to indulge their passion.

Driving time: 02:20 – 88 km

• 1 night at hotel Savegre Lodge

– Accommodation: Junior Suite for 2.

On The Program:
– Access to the trails of the Savegre Reserve

ON THE AGENDA :

• Quetzal Tour – Duration : 2:00 : Guided excursion in search of the resplendent “bird of paradise” revered by the Mayans. The quetzal can be seen all year round, but the best time is from February to April, when it breeds and nests.


SOUTH PACIFIC – OJOCHAL
Highlights: Boruca indigenous reserve – Parque Marino Ballena – Tyrolean traverse – Sierpe mangrove – Whale watching (August to November)

Days 3, 4 and 5 : Uvita marks the transition from the Central Pacific to the South, with its richer, denser vegetation.
This is where you’ll find the largest number of nature reserves and indigenous tribes. The area is a World Biosphere Reserve. Following the coast along the beautiful Costanera road, you’ll come across Uvita and the Marino Ballena National Park, home to humpback whales between August and November.
From here, you’ll notice the lush vegetation that covers the hills and literally flows into the sea.
Stop off at Playa Hermosa, slip into the warm Pacific waters and turn towards land. You’ll see this intense jungle right in front of you. Spectacle guaranteed.

Driving time: 03:05 – 132 km

• 3 nights at hotel Alma de Ojochal

– Accommodation: Ocean View King for 2.

ON THE AGENDA :

• Mangrove Tour – Duration : 3:00 : Take a boat trip to discover the mangroves on the Sierpe River, one of the world’s 12 RAMSAR sites. On the program: observation of numerous species of birds, monkeys, squirrels, caimans, crocodiles, iguanas and many more.

• Entrance to Nauyaca Waterfalls : A 12 km or an 8 km hike (round trip) on a difficult trail will take you to the superb Nauyaca waterfalls, among the most beautiful in the country: 1 waterfall 80 m high and another 20 m high in the form of a staircase offering a natural pool of crystal-clear water. The more adventurous can dive in. The less athletic can reach the waterfalls on horseback.


LA CANGREJA – Mastatal
Highlights: Vanilla cultivation – Waterfalls – Hiking – Cangreja National Park

Days 6 and 7 : The La Cangreja National Park region of Costa Rica is a true natural gem, offering visitors a unique experience. Just 2:30 from the airport, this national park covers some 2,470 hectares and is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna.
La Cangreja takes its name from the crab-shaped mountain that dominates the area, creating a picturesque landscape. The park is covered in tropical rainforest, where dense, lush vegetation thrives. A wide variety of trees, epiphytic plants, ferns and orchids can be found here, creating a rich and colorful ecosystem.
The fauna of La Cangreja National Park is equally impressive. Many species of birds can be seen, including toucans, hummingbirds, parrots and trogons. Mammals such as howler monkeys, sloths, tapirs and coatis are also present in the region. The park’s rivers and streams are home to a variety of fish, frogs and reptiles. Waterfalls and swimming are permitted.
A little-known but enchanting region.

Driving time: 02:35 – 130 km

• 2 nights at hotel Hacienda Las Vainillas

– Accommodation: Don Cristobal / Don Diego / Don Vasco / Don Amerigo for 2.

INCLUDED AT THE HOTEL:

– ALL MEALS
All meals (excluding alcohol and soft drinks)
NB: Lunch on day of arrival to be confirmed 48:00 in advance

ON THE AGENDA :

• Tour of choice : You can choose one of the following tours: the Los sueños waterfall, the Las Gemelas waterfall or the Vanille tour. When you arrive at the hotel, Frédérique or Philippe will give you a briefing, depending on the weather and your current level of fitness.


MONTEVERDE – SANTA ELENA
Highlights: Wildlife – Cloud forest – Suspension bridges – Tyrolean traverse – Sugar cane cultivation – Art galleries

Days 8 and 9 : Expect to enter the sanctuary of ecology.
Our advice here is to take a guide to visit the many sites and reserves in this region, where flora and fauna blend harmoniously. Discovering the cultivation of cocoa, coffee and sugar cane is also a must.
You’ll feel as if you’re on top of the world, as the mountainous landscapes overlooking the not-so-distant sea offer spectacular views.
Tens of thousands of insects, 2,500 plant species including 420 orchids, 400 bird species and over 100 mammal species make this an exceptional region.
Hanging bridges, zip-lining, night tours and walks in the various nature reserves are a must.

Driving time: 04:15 – 191 km

• 2 nights at hotel Tityra

– Accommodation: Capuchino Deluxe for 2.

• Regular Foreign Entry : This cloud forest is home to coatis, howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, squirrels, agoutis and over 400 species of birds, including the quetzal. Its infrastructure is of better quality than Santa Elena’s, but don’t forget to bring boots and suitable clothing. Trail 6:00 easy – L 16km/D 1690 m

• The hummingbird café : Visitors will be able to observe over 14 different species of hummingbird from the Caribbean and Pacific parts of Costa Rica. The garden, relaxing atmosphere and beautiful natural flowers provide the perfect setting for nature photography enthusiasts. The hummingbird café provides a relaxing pose where you can enjoy a coffee and unwind.

ON THE AGENDA :

• Orchid garden tour – Duration : 0:45 : Monteverde’s climate is ideal for orchids. Here, you’ll see every kind, from the smallest to the most surprising. Over 450 varieties await you. During the 45-minute tour, you can connect with nature and enjoy a quiet moment, while learning about wild orchids, hybrids, caring for plants at home, and much more.


ARENAL – LA FORTUNA
Highlights: Volcano – Hanging bridges – Thermal waters – Canopy – Rafting – Quad biking

Days 10 and 11 : La Fortuna, a small town at the foot of the Arenal volcano, is not the one that attracts visitors, but rather the many breathtaking sites that surround it. The legendarily perfect cone of the volcano makes the region a must-see.
Volcanic activity in the form of lava flows ceased in 2009. However, the steam still escaping from the crater and the warmth of the thermal waters flowing through the area are clear signs that the colossus is still alive and kicking.
Suspension bridges, zip lines, waterfalls and thermal springs are musts.
The national park is home to ancient lava flows and exceptional birdlife.
Canyoning is also a popular activity at Lake Arenal.

Driving time: 02:50 – 134 km

• 2 nights at hotel Arenal Glamping

– Accommodation: Honeymoon Suite for 2.

ON THE AGENDA :

• Entrance to the Observatory Lodge Reserve : This observatory is located on the flank of the Arenal volcano. Several marked trails through primary and secondary forests allow you to observe ancient lava flows, over 250 species of birds and a 20 m-high waterfall. A trail map is available at the hotel entrance.

• Typical lunch + Tour de caña – Duration : 2:00 – included meal : La Casona de la Fortuna is a former presidential residence. The current owners invite you to experience a traditional Costa Rican meal and discover how sugar is extracted from the cane. An authentic and privileged moment of sharing.

• Entrance to the Hot Springs : After a day of activities, there’s nothing like a dip in the natural pools heated by the volcano to relax! Various pools, a huge swimming pool and waterfalls await you for relaxation with a view of the volcano.


Day 12 – DEPARTURE

Road to San José.

Driving time to the airport: 02:50 – 117 km

Your driver will take you to the airport for your return flight.

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SAN JOSE

Presidente

– Accommodation: Premium for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Located on the pedestrian avenue in downtown San José, Hotel Presidente enjoys an ideal location, just steps from the National Theatre and museums.
Its modern, comfortable rooms are fully equipped for a city stopover.
The generous breakfast is much appreciated.
The rooftop, Azotea Calle 7, offers stunning views of the capital in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
A well-maintained urban hotel, perfect for exploring San José on foot.

DOTA – SAN GERARDO DE DOTA

Savegre Lodge

– Accommodation: Junior Suite for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

A beautiful, comfortable hotel set on a magnificent property with many signposted paths for discovering the Quetzal. The large, comfortable rooms have fireplaces to warm up the cool evenings in the region. The restaurant is very good and the buffet breakfast is very hearty. Excursions from the hotel are excellent.

PACIFIQUE SUD

Alma de Ojochal

– Accommodation: Ocean View King for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

A small hotel with just 5 rooms located in the hills of Ojochal, with a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean and the jungle.
Rooms are simple but well-equipped and comfortable.
All rooms have small terraces with ocean views.
The swimming pool is a pleasant place to relax after a day’s activities.

LA CANGREJA – Mastatal

Hacienda Las Vainillas

– Accommodation: Don Cristobal / Don Diego / Don Vasco / Don Amerigo for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

The hacienda las Vainillas is a dream come true. French orchid enthusiasts Frédérique and Philippe bought the vanilla-growing property in 2015. In 2022, the hacienda was born. 5 beautiful, large and comfortable rooms with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains make this a privileged location.
Hiking trails are accessible from the property.
The hosts offer simple but delicious meals.
A little paradise nestled in the tropical jungle.

MONTEVERDE

Tityra

– Accommodation: Capuchino Deluxe for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Tityra is a small family-run hotel where warm hospitality blends with exceptional views. Nestled in the heart of a sanctuary of peace and tranquility, it offers high-quality service. The bungalows and Tinis Houses, scattered across the property, ensure great privacy. Each accommodation is unique, featuring panoramic views of the mountains or jungle. The terraces invite guests to enjoy Monteverde’s stunning sunsets.

ARENAL

Arenal Glamping

– Accommodation: Honeymoon Suite for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Arenal Glamping is a charming small hotel where sustainability and respect for nature are at the heart of the experience. Here, the adventure of luxury camping blends with restful comfort in a peaceful setting facing the majestic Arenal Volcano. Each comfortable and welcoming room features a large bed, a private bathroom, and a balcony to fully enjoy the landscape.

The tour map

Carte du circuit

Price includes:

– All accommodations and breakfasts
– All meals in Tortuguero
– All transfers mentioned
– Renting of vehicule – Cat. Standard – Rav 4/Koleos/Tucson – 4×4 Automatic
Vehicule, comprehensive insurance (TPL + CDW) with damage waiver, unlimited mileage + SIM card with unlimited Waze/Google Maps. A credit card imprint of 100 US$ will be taken by the rental company.
– Our 7/7 assistance
– Your travel diary


Your naturalist guide (Included : Accommodations + meals + reserve/park entrance fees + fuel + parking + tolls).

DOTA

• Coffee Experience Tour

On The Program:
– Access to the trails of the Savegre Reserve

• Quetzal Tour

SOUTH PACIFIC

• Mangrove Tour
• Entrance to Nauyaca Waterfalls

LA CANGREJA

INCLUDED AT THE HOTEL: – ALL MEALS
All meals (excluding alcohol and soft drinks)
NB: Lunch on day of arrival to be confirmed 48:00 in advance

• Tour of choice

MONTEVERDE

• Regular Foreign Entry
• The hummingbird café
• Orchid garden tour
• Entrance to the Observatory Lodge Reserve
• Typical lunch + Tour de caña – included meal
• Entrance to the Hot Springs

Price does not include:

– International flights
– Meals and drinks not mentioned
– Tips
– Personal purchases

NB: the days and times of the excursions mentioned in the quote may be subject to change depending on the logistics and availability of the service providers.

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    Personalized travel idea
    Luxury travel in Costa Rica with guide
    Suggested duration

    12 days

    Price per person
    4618 €5367 $

    Map of circuit charm and nature by Costa Rica Decouverte

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