Coatimundi

With an english guide for a total immersion

Between the Caribbean and the Pacific, via the northern plains, Volcan Arenal and Monteverde, this 12-day tour will take you off the beaten track. Your English-speaking driver-guide will show you his country like no other.A great overview of Costa Rica’s must-sees, as well as its most remote and wild corners. You’ll discover a wide variety of ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, all punctuated by relaxing and sporting activities. … Lodges and hotels carefully selected to provide you with relaxation and comfort throughout your trip. We go to great lengths to ensure that your trip is an unforgettable experience.

OUEST DE SAN JOSE – SANTA ANA
Highlights: Ceramics – Onion festival – Wind farm – Shopping

Day 1 : The western part of the capital is home to towns such as Escazu, Santa Ana and Ciudad Colon. The first, Escazu, is the wealthiest part of the city, with law firms, luxury apartments and commercial activities concentrated here. Santa Ana, its neighbor, is gradually moving in the same direction, but is still very rural and quieter.
Moving on a little further, Ciudad Colon, a rural municipality if ever there was one, is very typical and offers beautiful scenery and walks in the surrounding area. In summary, each could be described as follows: Escazu, the economic capital – Santa Ana, the lively provincial town and Ciudad Colon, the charm of the countryside.

Landing to the airport. A private driver will be waiting for you. You’ll be taken to your hotel where a member of the staff will give you your roadbook. and your SIM card that can fit any smartphone

• 1 night at hotel Studio Boutique Hotel

– Accommodation: Superior for 2.

 

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

Days 2, 3 and 4 : Check-in for your vehicule

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

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 lives on.
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: 03:10 – 131 km

• 3 nights at hotel Kokoro

– Accommodation: Superior for 2.

Included when staying at Hotel Kokoro: :
– Access to hotel hot springs

ON THE AGENDA:

• Mistico Hanging Bridges Walk (entrance) : Along a series of trails and 16 suspension bridges, you’ll discover the secrets of the forest, a veritable natural sanctuary where you can observe the many species that inhabit the area, both in the trees and on the ground. There are 3 trail options: 3.1 km, 2 km and 1.2 km.

• Entrance to Fortuna Waterfall (international) : After a descent of around 30 minutes and 530 steps, you can cool off in the cool, crystal-clear waters at the foot of this 70 m-high waterfall and observe the lush vegetation that surrounds it. A path running parallel to the waterfall offers spectacular views over the canyon. There is also a viewpoint accessible to people with reduced mobility.

• Admission to Reserve Mirador El Silencio : 14 km of trails criss-cross the 225-hectare property on the slopes of the volcano – moderate level. Here you can see ancient lava flows and discover exceptional flora and fauna. Fauna: parrots, Motmot, Finsh’s Conure, Costa Rican touit, hummingbirds, quetzals, Grand Tinamou, etc. – Some trails are only open with a local guide.

• Night Guaro Tour & BBQ dinner – Duration : 3:00 – included meal : From cane cultivation to the distillation of Guaro Caña – local rum – a typical Costa Rican spirit, you’ll learn all about this ancestral technique. The ox mill used to extract the cane juice is a captivating stopover. The evening continues with a barbecue, where you can also try your hand at traditional dances to the rhythm of local music. The friendly family atmosphere is always a great success.

 

TENORIO
Highlights: Parc National et Rio Celeste – Parc Palo Verde – Floating et Equitation – Grenouilles – Ornithologie – Cascade Llanos de Cortes

Days 5 and 6 : This region, situated between the Arenal and Miravalles volcanoes, is ideally located for nature lovers and birdwatchers of all kinds. Activities such as horseback riding, tubing and hiking are very popular, as are bird and mammal watching. A visit to the Tenorio National Park and its famous Rio Celeste, the celestial blue river, remains the area’s highlight. Climatic conditions influenced by the Caribbean and the Pacific make this a first-rate place for observing numerous species such as birds, tapir, p
uma, sloths, anteaters, coatis, frogs, butterflies…

Driving time: 01:40 – 77 km

• 2 nights at hotel L’Etoile Celeste

– Accommodation: Supérieure King for 2.

Included when staying at Etoile Celeste :
• Access to the botanical garden

ON THE AGENDA:

• Entrance to Tenorio National Park – Rio Celeste : Visitors are attracted first and foremost by the Río Céleste river, whose color is due to the mixture of copper and sulfur from 2 tributaries. Legend has it: “When God finished painting the sky blue, he washed his brushes here”. Biodiversity includes tapirs, monkeys, hummingbirds, toucans and the occasional puma. Trail 3:00 easy: L 7.3 km / D 814 m

 

CAÑO NEGRO
Highlights: Birdwatching – Biodiversity – Boat safari

Day 7 : The Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge is a nature reserve that is home to an exceptional diversity of birdlife. But the diversity doesn’t stop there, and mammals and reptiles are also very much in evidence: pumas, jaguars, caimans, crocodiles and tapirs are the guests here.

Driving time: 01:15 – 35 km

• 1 night at hotel Campo Caño Negro

– Accommodation: “Paquete Easy Econature 1 noche for 2.”

 

SARAPIQUI – LA VIRGEN
Highlights: Bird and amphibian watching – Center for Tropical Studies – Rafting – Pineapple cultivation

Day 8 : The town’s main source of income is the banana and pineapple plantations that can be seen as far as the eye can see to the east of the town. An ideal stopover between the Caribbean and the Central Valley, this region also thrives on its bountiful natural environment, with flora and fauna easily observed by boat on the Sarapiquí River, on foot or on horseback. The region is also ideal for birdwatching and amphibian observation.
The region has been open to tourism for many years now, and there are numerous activities to choose from: tours linked to rural tourism, of course, with the cultivation of bananas, yucca, sugar cane, pineapples, tilapias and ants, but also adventure tourism with rafting, tubing, kayaking, mountain biking, canyoning, zip-lining and horse-riding. Last but not least, the area is renowned among ornithologists for being home to a multitude of sedentary and migratory birds.

Driving time: 02:25 – 129 km

• 1 night at hotel Sarapiqui’s Rainforest Lodge

– Accommodation: Deluxe for 2.

Included when staying at Sarapiqui’s Lodge : 
– Free access to property trails
– Free access to archaeological site

ON THE AGENDA:

• Frog tour – Duration : 1:30 : With 180 species of amphibians, Costa Rica is one of the richest amphibian countries in the world: red-eyed frogs, Blue Jean, tree frogs and buffalo toads are all easy to spot. Open your ears and enjoy nature’s concert!

 

CARAIBES – PUNTA UVA
Highlights: Manzanillo Reserve – Beaches – Cahuita National Park – BriBri Indigenous Reserve – Surfing

Days 9, 10 and 11 : The Costa Rican Caribbean is characterized by its environmental and cultural diversity. It is coastal, cross-border with Panama and mountainous. Over 80% of its surface area is protected. This region is home to the Afro-Caribbean culture. A place that offers both superb beaches and numerous activities: diving, horseback riding, excursions, animal sanctuaries…
Cahuita National Park runs through jungle and along the sea, protected by a coral reef. The Gandoca Manzanillo refuge, between land and sea, protects a 5 km2 reef with an abundance of coral, a natural mangrove oyster bed, lagoons and mangroves. Here you can observe monkeys, iguanas, agoutis, raccoons, sloths, anteaters, coatis, etc.

Driving time: 02:05 – 70 km

• 3 nights at hotel Villas del Caribe

– Accommodation: Superior for 2.

ON THE AGENDA:

• Somos Bribris – Duration : 7:00 – Déj. inclus : An unforgettable and enriching experience at the heart of Bribri Indian tradition. By pirogue, you’ll discover a remote village in the pure Bribri tradition. Visit the plantations, cocoa tour, handicrafts, organic farming, etc. Bring bathing suits and towels, rain boots and cape, and sun cream.

• Gandoca Nature Sanctuary – Manzanillo : The combination of terrestrial and marine landscapes is what makes this park so special, offering you the chance to observe numerous wild animals. You can laze on the beach, with only the monkeys in the treetops to keep you company.

• Entrance to C
ahuita National Park – PAYABLE ON THE SPOT : Located on the Caribbean coast, the park is both marine and terrestrial, and is home to the country’s largest coral reef. It is the marine part of the park that attracts visitors for its richness and ease of snorkeling and diving.

 

Day 12 – DEPARTURE

Road to San José.

Driving time to the airport: 04:35 – 239 km

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

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Photo Hotel Studio Boutique Hotel

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OUEST DE SAN JOSE – SANTA ANA

Studio Boutique Hotel

– Accommodation: Superior for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

The Studio Boutique Hotel in Santa Ana boasts one of the largest collections of South American art (paintings and sculptures) in Costa Rica. A veritable museum! The rooms are spacious and well appointed, with nothing missing. Located in the center of Santa Ana, many restaurants are within easy walking distance.

Photo Hotel Kokoro

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ARENAL

Kokoro

– Accommodation: Superior for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Pretty chalets facing the volcano, an Asian-influenced restaurant, a spa and hot springs are the setting for this small hotel. The Korean style is a little preponderant, but the value for money is good.

Photo Hotel L'Etoile Celeste

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TENORIO

L’Etoile Celeste

– Accommodation: Supérieure King for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Ideally located between the Caño Negro refuge and Tenorio Park, Etoile Celeste is a small hotel where the welcome is just incredible.
The property, entirely replanted by Yves, is a charming, lively place well worth a visit.
Of course, you’ll find peace and quiet, and meals prepared with produce from the garden or the surrounding area will be a delightful taste experience.
Relaxing by the pool is a must, and the Spa is a wonderful place to recharge your batteries.
The rooms are decorated with great originality and taste.
One of our favorite Tenorio hotels in this catego

Photo Hotel Campo Caño Negro

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CAÑO NEGRO

Campo Caño Negro

– Accommodation: Paquete Easy Econature 1 noche for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Photo Hotel Sarapiqui's Rainforest Lodge

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SARAPIQUI

Sarapiqui’s Rainforest Lodge

– Accommodation: Deluxe for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Built in the pre-Columbian style, the lodge is the region’s most attractive option. The large rancho, typical of these civilizations, houses the restaurant and overlooks the Sarapiqui River and swimming pool. The hotel also offers the chance to visit centuries-old tombs and a botanical garden. The rooms are all round and thatched, resembling indigenous houses. The restaurant is of good quality and the breakfasts extremely hearty. This hotel is located right next to the La Tirimbina reserve.

Photo Hotel Villas del Caribe

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CARAIBES

Villas del Caribe

– Accommodation: Superior for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Villas del Caribe is a traditional hotel located directly on the beach, between playa Cocles and playa Chiquita, the 2 most beautiful beaches in the area. A lovely swimming pool, jacuzzi area and sea views are the main assets of this hotel. The rooms are fresh and spacious. We only book rooms away from the sea.

The tour map

Carte du circuit

Price includes:

– All accommodations and breakfasts
– All meals in Tortuguero
– All transfers mentioned
– Renting of vehicule – Cat. Mid. Size – Suzuki Vitara 4×4 – Automatic
Vehicule, comprehensive insurance (TPL + CDW) with damage waiver, unlimited mileage + SIM card with unlimited Waze/Google Maps.
– Our 7/7 assistance
– Your travel diary

Your English-speaking naturalist guide (Includes: accommodation + meals + entrance fees to reserves/parks + gasoline + parking + tolls).

 

ARENAL

Included when staying at Hotel Kokoro: :
– Access to hotel hot springs

• Mistico Hanging Bridges Walk (entrance)

• Entrance to Fortuna Waterfall (international)

• Admission to Reserve Mirador El Silencio

• Night Guaro Tour & BBQ dinner – included meal

TENORIO

Access to the botanical garden

• Entrance to Tenorio National Park – Rio Celeste

SARAPIQUI

ON THE PROGRAM DURING YOUR STAY AT THE HOTEL:
– Free access to property trails
– Free access to archaeological site

• Frog tour

CARIBBEAN COAST

• Somos Bribris – Lunch Included

• Gandoca Nature Sanctuary – Manzanillo

• Entrance to Cahuita National Park – PAYABLE ON THE SPOT

Price does not include:

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

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    Personalized travel idea
    With an english guide for a total immersion
    Suggested duration

    12 days

    Price per person
    3559 €4129 $

    Map of circuit coatimundi

    Why travel with us?

    A flawless reputation since 2008

    A single contact in English

    Our presence on the ground all year round

    Our expertise for a tailor-made offer

    Our customers have their say

    157 days ago
    Our tour of Costa Rica from 19 to 31 March, organised by Sandrine and everyone at Costa Rica Decouverte, was truly unforgettable! We visited an exciting mix of destinations including San Jose, Monteverde, Arenal, Corcovado, and Tortuguero. From seamless transportation to breathtaking locations, fantastic tours and activities, comfortable accommodations, and delicious food—everything exceeded our expectations. Throughout our journey, we encountered friendly and helpful people who made our experience even more memorable. The places we stayed offered the chance to enjoy Costa Rica’s incredible nature right from the comfort of the verandas. Even the journeys between locations felt like grand adventures in themselves. Every day brought something new and exciting. I won’t share too many specifics, as some things are better left as surprises for others to discover on their own. Thank you again to Sandrine and everyone involved for making this such a wonderful experience for both myself and my partner. Barbara

    Owner's reply
    Hi Barbara, Thank you so much for your wonderful message 😊 We’re truly delighted to read that your journey through Costa Rica was such a memorable experience, and that each destination brought its share of discovery and emotion. Your words perfectly capture what we aim to create: a seamless adventure filled with beautiful moments, nature, and special encounters. A big thank you as well for your kind mention of Sandrine—we’ll be sure to pass it along! We love that you chose to keep a bit of mystery for future travelers… you’re absolutely right, some surprises are part of the magic ✨ It was a real pleasure to organize this trip for you and your partner. We hope to welcome you again one day for another Costa Rican adventure! Pura Vida 🌴☀️ The Costa Rica Découverte Team
    188 days ago
    We have had a wonderful stay in Costa Rica. Sandrine organized the trip to perfection in spite that we had decided this at the last moment. It was our first trip to Costa Rica and our main reason for visiting this beautiful country was to get away from the brutally long winter in Toronto, Canada. Sandrine introduced us to the different climates; Manuel Antonio with its mangroves, La Fontana de Arenal with its rainforest, Monteverde with its cloud forest and Carillo with its beach. We had private transportation between the different destinations which all ran like clockwork and all the hotels were exactly as we had requested; international, first class and family oriented. We highly recommend Cost Rica Découverte Travel Agency for its professionalism, punctuality and wonderful follow up throughout the trip.

    Owner's reply
    Thank you Bernardo for your lovely comment 🙏 It takes daily teamwork to listen to our customers before, during, and after their trip! And that's true that your trip was a good one. Pura Vida! 😎🇨🇷
    239 days ago
    +8
    We had a great trip Costa Rica decouverte. Communication was excellent, great hotels and loved the balance with activities and relaxing times. We managed to see so much wildlife thanks for their knowledge. Highly recommend!

    Owner's reply
    Dear Tiffany, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your lovely feedback. We’re delighted to hear that you had a great trip and that you enjoyed the balance between activities and relaxing moments, as well as the hotels and communication throughout your journey. We’re especially happy that our team’s knowledge helped you discover so much wildlife — that’s exactly what we love sharing about Costa Rica 🌿🐒 Thank you again for your trust and your recommendation. It was a real pleasure organizing your Costa Rica découverte!
    247 days ago
    From the very first conversation, the experience with Costa Rica Découverte was exceptional — particularly as a family travelling with children. The booking process was incredibly easy and reassuring, with the team taking the time to understand our family’s needs, pace, and interests. The itinerary came together smoothly, with thoughtful suggestions that balanced adventure, nature, relaxation, and comfort in a way that worked perfectly for both adults and children. In the lead-up to travel, the communication was outstanding. Every question — no matter how small — was answered promptly and clearly, and we felt completely prepared before we even left home. Knowing that every detail had been considered made a huge difference when travelling as a family, especially over the busy festive period. Once in Costa Rica, everything ran seamlessly. Transfers were punctual and well organised, guides were fantastic with the children — patient, engaging, and incredibly knowledgeable — and activities were perfectly suited to a family dynamic. We always knew exactly where to be and what to expect, which removed all the usual stresses that can come with family travel. What really stood out was how well looked after we felt at every stage — before travelling, during the trip, and right through to departure. The staff were consistently friendly, professional, and genuinely caring, giving us complete confidence that we were in safe hands at all times. It allowed us to fully relax and focus on making memories together as a family. This was one of the best family holidays we have ever taken. Effortlessly organised, brilliantly communicated, and thoughtfully tailored for family travel, it exceeded our expectations in every way. We would recommend Costa Rica Découverte without hesitation to any family looking for a truly special, stress-free Costa Rica experience — and we will absolutely be booking with them again

    Owner's reply
    Dear Michelle and Mital, Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a wonderful and detailed review. We are truly touched by your kind words and delighted to know that your family trip to Costa Rica was such a positive and memorable experience. It was a real pleasure for our team to design this journey for your family and to ensure that every detail — from planning to on-the-ground logistics — met your expectations. Knowing that you felt well supported, relaxed, and able to fully enjoy time together as a family is exactly what we strive for. We will be sure to pass on your feedback to our local partners and guides, who will be thrilled to hear how much they contributed to your experience, especially with your children. Thank you again for your trust and recommendation. We would be absolutely delighted to welcome your family back to Costa Rica in the future and to help create another unforgettable journey. Warm regards, Sandrine 🦥
    401 days ago
    Absolutely incredible service our flights were delayed (we booked individually) they done everything to make every effort to rearrange hotels etc, even had a chauffer at the airport to bring us to our hotel, next day the car rental people were outside saving us having to collect the car, exactly what we needed after a long delayed flight. could not be happier with the service that was provided.

    Owner's reply
    Hi Brendan! Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that, despite the flight delays, everything worked out smoothly for you. Our team is always happy to go the extra mile to ensure your trip starts stress-free and comfortably. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back to Costa Rica for another unforgettable experience. Pura Vida! 🇨🇷😎
    566 days ago
    +3
    My wife and I spent 3 weeks traveling across Costa Rica with my retired mother in February 2025. Maelle helped tailor this trip to our interests, particularly our desire to see as much of the country while keeping a reasonable rhythm, all interspersed with some relaxation and beach time. We started with Tortoguero (staying at the Mawamba Lodge, with boat excursions to see the wildlife, including waterfowl, sloths, and baby crocodiles), traveled west to Sarapiqui (the enchanting Selva Verde Lodge and a fascinating visit to Palmitour to see how hearts of palm are cultivated), then to Arenal (the simple but lovely Natural Green Lodge, and a fantastic guided tour of the Mistico suspension bridges), Tenorio (can’t say enough about the Celeste Mountain Lodge, though our excursion to the park was unfortunately rained out), and Monteverde (the cute Calathea Lodge, another great guided tour of Curi-Cancha), before going to Samara in Nicoya for a couple days on the beach (staying at Las Estrellas de Samara, which has an incredible view but definitely needs a 4x4 vehicle to reach it—and Maelle made sure we did). After that we headed south (stopping at beautiful Rancho Capulin B&B, after visiting the animal sanctuary Centro de Rescate Las Pumas—with its jaguars, monkeys, and myriad arts), making the obligatory stop at Manuel Antonio (a bit underwhelming after everything else we’d seen, but the Alma de Ojochal hotel was fantastic), before ending up in Drake (staying at the magnificent Natural Drake Bay) for some well-earned R&R and scuba diving. I cannot stress enough that the entire trip went as planned and without a hitch. The CRD crew was always available and immediately responsive whenever we had questions, and even made some last-minute adjustments for us along the way. Costa Rica is truly a wonderful country, and CRD made sure we saw it in the very best conditions. A heartfelt thanks to all. Pura vida!

    Owner's reply
    Hello Gregoire! Thank you so much for your heartfelt comment. We are really happy to have been able to participate in the success of this trip! The whole team wishes you an excellent selection of photos, and maybe we'll see you next time :) Pura Vida!
    2945 days ago
    just visited Costa Rica and the experience was super intense, I loved the nature that is like being inside a green explosion of live, thanks to ROOTS TRAVEL for helping to make this visit a five star time