Ylang Ylang Tree

From Tortuguero to the South Pacific

From Tortuguero to the South Pacific, from jungle nights in close contact with nature to luxurious comfort at the end of your stay: this is a complete tour.

A 6-stop loop for an in-depth discovery of the country.

The canals of Tortuguero, the magic of the Arenal volcano, the countryside of Tenorio before basking in the sun of The Pacific Coast, from the Nicoya Peninsula to the magnificent Uvita region. The end of the trip will be the apotheosis of connection with nature, with a night’s sleep in a cave next to a refreshing waterfall after an invigorating trek!

And finally, you’ll end the trip in the comfort of one of the beautiful hotels in the southern region, allowing you not only to observe the preserved nature, but also to explore the famous Corcovado for a day.

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. 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 Presidente

– Accommodation: Standard for 2.

 

TORTUGUERO
Highlights: Canal cruise – Cerro Tortuguero – Typical Caribbean village – Biodiversity

Days 2 and 3 : On the edge of the Caribbean lies an ecological marvel, in the middle of a tropical rainforest of exceptional animal diversity, hence its nickname of “Little Amazon”. You reach this region by bus, then by boat, and breakfast is served en route.

Transfer from Tortuguero to Guapiles by boat and bus – Lunch included

Driving time: 1:00 by boat + 1:15 by bus – 47 km

• 2 nights at hotel Mawamba Lodge

– Accommodation: “Pack 3D/2N – hab. standard DBL + tour canales + comidas + transporte for 2.”

INCLUDED AT THE HOTEL :
– All meals

ON THE AGENDA:
• Guided canal boat excursion
• Visit to the village of Tortuguero
• Visit of Mawamba Park (frog and iguana garden) Tour schedule will be confirmed at the hotel.
• Entrance to Tortuguero National Park

 

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

Days 4 and 5 : Check-in for your vehicule

From Day 4 to 13 : renting of one Cat. Mid. Size – Suzuki Vitara 4×4 – Automatic Assurance tous risques avec rachat de franchise, deux conducteurs, km illimités (Carte Sim)

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: 02:20 – 126 km

• 2 nights at hotel Arenal Manoa

– Accommodation: Junior Suite for 2.

INCLUDED AT THE HOTEL:

– Access to the hotel’s thermal waters

ON THE AGENDA:

• Mistico Hanging Bridges Walk (Self-guided) : 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 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.

 

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

Day 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, puma, sloths, anteaters, coatis, frogs, butterflies…

Driving time: 02:10 – 90 km

• 1 night at hotel Sueño Rio Celeste

– Accommodation: Luxury Bungalow for 2.

ON THE AGENDA:

• Tenorio NP and Rio Celeste – IN ENGLISH – Duration : 3:30 – Déj. inclus : Set off with your English-speaking guide along the trails of the Tenorio volcano park. Admire the famous Rio Celeste and its turquoise waters. The flora and fauna of the region will hold no secrets for you. An enriching experience. Lunch included

• 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

 

GOLFE DE NICOYA – PAQUERA
Highlights: Beach – Snorkelling – Isla Tortuga – Bioluminescence – Cascades de Montezuma

Days 7 and 8 : The small town of Paquera is home to the ferry terminal on the Gulf of Nicoya. However, this little-visited area is well worth a visit. Playa Organos, for example, is a postcard-perfect sandy beach in a wide, tranquil bay surrounded by jungle. Outside the full moon, it’s the phytoplankton that attract visitors. Kayak across a phosphorescent sea. A magical spectacle!

Driving time: 03:20 – 193 km

• 2 nights at hotel Isla Chiquita

– Accommodation: Tent Suite for 2.

Included at the hotel:
– Kayaks and Stand Up Paddle available
– Access to the island’s network of trails

ON THE AGENDA:

• Guided Nature Walk – Duration : 1:30 : The Curu Wildlife Sanctuary is unique in that it is located within a huge private estate. It protects the area’s fragile marine and coastal habitats. On this tour, you’ll discover different ecosystems and see a wide range of animals, including capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, white-tailed deer, agoutis and crocodiles.

 

PACIFIQUE SUD – MATAPALO
Highlights: Barú and La Merced reserves – Surfing – Canopy – Horseback riding – Whale watching (August to November)

Day 9 : 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: 05:30 – 211 km

• 1 night at hotel Jardin de Los Monos B&B

– Accommodation: Double Room with Garden View for 2.

 

PACIFIQUE SUD – DOMINICAL
Highlights: Barú and La Merced reserves – Surfing – Canopy – Horseback riding – Whale watching (August to November)

Day 10 : Dominical is a real transition between the biotopes
of the Central Pacific and those of the South Pacific, between jungle and sea. The habitat is sparser, the beaches more deserted, the towns more like villages. The private reserves of Barú and La Merced, and the Nauyaca waterfalls, are as much a part of the region as the lure of the Pacific.From August to November, humpback whales calve in the warm, shallow waters of this part of the coast.

Driving time: 00:50 – 35 km

• 1 night at hotel Pacific Journeys

– Accommodation: “Diamante Waterfall & Cave Overnight Adventure for 2.”

 

PACIFIQUE SUD – UVITA
Highlights: Barú and La Merced reserves – Surfing – Canopy – Horseback riding – Whale watching (August to November)

Days 11, 12 and 13 : Uvita marks the transition between the Central Pacific and 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: 03:50 – 210 km

• 3 nights at hotel Oxygen Jungle Villas

– Accommodation: Jungle Spa Villa for 2.

Included at the hotel:
– Access to waterfalls on hotel property

ON THE AGENDA:

• Parque nacional de Corcovado – San Pedrillo – Duration : 4:00 – Déj. inclus : From Sierpe, set off by boat to discover Corcovado National Park, the country’s richest! On the program: monkeys, macaws, tapirs, toucans… Easy hike lasting approx. 3:00. Park entrance included.

 

Day 14 – DEPARTURE

Road to San José.

Driving time to the airport: 03:50 – 212 km

Return your vehicle to the rental company and take the shuttle to the international terminal.

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Photo Hotel Presidente

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SAN JOSE

Presidente

– Accommodation: Standard for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Right in the center of town, just a stone’s throw from museums, theaters and markets, the Hotel Presidente is a beautiful, comfortable and pleasant hotel.
The rooftop restaurant gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Breakfasts are hearty and there’s something for everyone.
Rooms are comfortable and clean.
A great option for a first or last night.

Photo Hotel Mawamba Lodge

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TORTUGUERO

Mawamba Lodge

– Accommodation: Pack 3D/2N – hab. standard DBL + tour canales + comidas + transporte for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Mawamba Lodge offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool and a restaurant. Hiking, excursions and a shuttle service make it easy to enjoy the surrounding area. Each bungalow is beautifully decorated with wood panelling, a sitting area to relax in and a private bathroom. A private terrace with a hammock and rocking chairs invites you to relax.

Photo Hotel Arenal Manoa

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ARENAL

Arenal Manoa

– Accommodation: Junior Suite for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

A large hotel facing the volcano, where you can enjoy the magnificent view and thermal waters right on site.
Three restaurants offer a variety of options if you don’t want to go out for dinner.
Breakfasts are varied and of good quality.
The rooms are scattered across the immense property and offer privacy. All have a view of the colossus.

Photo Hotel Sueño Rio Celeste

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TENORIO

Sueño Rio Celeste

– Accommodation: Luxury Bungalow for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

A small B&B, close to Bijagua and its famous Rio Celeste. A yoga deck nestles in the forest, a pool area invites you to relax and a jacuzzi invites you to unwind.

Photo Hotel Isla Chiquita

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GOLFE DE NICOYA – PAQUERA

Isla Chiquita

– Accommodation: Tent Suite for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Discover Costa Rica’s first island hotel!
Located in the Gulf of Nicoya, Isla Chiquita combines camping, comfort and the services of a traditional beach hotel. Housed in modern, spacious and comfortably furnished tents, you’ll be enchanted by the peaceful waters of the Gulf, 360ºC ocean views and delicious, fresh cuisine.
It takes 5 minutes to reach the mainland, and the hotel has a small boat that operates all day.
A hidden spot, perfect for connecting with the sea and savoring the simplicity of happiness on land!

Photo Hotel Jardin de Los Monos B&B

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SOUTH PACIFIC

Jardin de Los Monos B&B

– Accommodation: Double Room with Garden View for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Just a stone’s throw from Matapalo beach, this little B&B is adorable, clean and quiet.
The spacious rooms are very comfortable, and the bathrooms are modern and large too.
The owners are charming and attentive.
Breakfasts are copious and varied, and the pool is ideal for catching the last rays of sun at the end of the day.
The garden promises the opportunity to observe dozens of species of birds and often sloths.

Photo Hotel Pacific Journeys

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SOUTH PACIFIC

Pacific Journeys

– Accommodation: Diamante Waterfall & Cave Overnight Adventure for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

Photo Hotel Oxygen Jungle Villas

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SOUTH PACIFIC

Oxygen Jungle Villas

– Accommodation: Jungle Spa Villa for 2.

WHY THIS HOTEL?

On the heights of Uvita, this small boutique hotel boasts glass architecture that gives glimpses of the surrounding forest.
The service is top-notch, and the view from the pool offers exceptional sunsets.
A pleasant restaurant completes the picture. A good 4×4 to get there is a must.
The glass bungalows are spacious, comfortable and well-maintained.
The property boasts a small waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip.
4×4 require

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, 2 drivers, 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

TORTUGUERO

INCLUDED AT THE HOTEL :
– All meals

PROGRAM :
– Guided canal boat excursion
– Visit to the village of Tortuguero
– Visit of Mawamba Park (frog and iguana garden) Tour schedule will be confirmed at the hotel.

• Entrance to Tortuguero National Park

ARENAL

INCLUDED AT THE HOTEL:
– Access to the hotel’s thermal waters

• Mistico Hanging Bridges Walk (Self-guided)

• Entrance to the hot springs

• Tenorio NP and Rio Celeste – IN ENGLISH – Lunch Included

• Entrance to Tenorio National Park – Rio Celeste

GOLFE DE NICOYA

Included:
– Kayaks and Stand Up Paddle available
– Access to the island’s network of trails

• Guided Nature Walk

Included when staying at the Oxygen Jungle Villas hotel:
– Access to waterfalls on hotel property

• Parque nacional de Corcovado – San Pedrillo – Déj. inclus

Price does not include:

– International flights
– Meals and drinks not mentioned
– Gas, parking and tolls
– Tips
– Personal purchases

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    Personalized travel idea
    From Tortuguero to the South Pacific
    Suggested duration

    14 days

    Price per person
    3539 €4105 $

    Map of circuit Ylang Ylang Costa Rica

    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

    160 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
    191 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! 😎🇨🇷
    242 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!
    250 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 🦥
    404 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! 🇨🇷😎
    569 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!
    2948 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