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The colourful toucan is an icon of South and Central America - Costa Rican Adventure, Costa Rica
The colourful toucan is an icon of South and Central America
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica - Costa Rican Adventure, Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Cheeky capuchin monkey - Costa Rican Adventure, Costa Rica
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Costa Rican Adventure

Flexible Costa Rica adventure combining rainforest rafting, volcano landscapes & the freedom to explore Monteverde or Manuel Antonio your way

Costa Rica
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 4 reviews

8 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: CRS
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 8 Days
Activities
  • 8 days adventure touring
Style
  • In Comfort Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 6 nights hotels
  • 1 night Eco-Camp
Meals
  • 2 Dinners
  • 2 Lunches
  • 7 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
3 / 10

Introductory

Carbon Footprint  

37kg of CO2-e PP per day

(259kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Raft the Pacuare River, in a superb natural rainforest region
  • Encounter exotic wildlife
  • Discover the Arenal Volcano area and incredible hanging bridges
  • Rejuvenate by soaking in natural hot springs
  • Enjoy a choice of days in Monteverde Cloud Forest or Manuel Antonio National Park

Overview

This flexible itinerary is designed for travellers who want the freedom to shape their own Costa Rica experience, combining nature, light adventure and time to unwind.

Your journey begins in San José before travelling to the Pacuare River for two days of gentle whitewater rafting through one of the country’s most spectacular rainforest regions. Floating through lush jungle and dramatic river canyons offers a memorable introduction to Costa Rica’s rich natural landscapes.

From here you continue to the Arenal Volcano region, where you can enjoy a guided hike to discover the area’s remarkable flora and fauna. There is also time to relax in the region’s natural hot springs or simply enjoy the surrounding rainforest environment.

The final section of the journey is where the itinerary becomes even more flexible. You can choose between the cool highlands of the Monteverde Cloud Forest or the wildlife-rich forests and palm-fringed beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast. Both destinations offer a wide range of optional activities, allowing you to tailor your days to suit your interests, whether that means exploring nature trails, spotting wildlife or simply relaxing and enjoying the surroundings.

This balanced approach allows you to experience some of Costa Rica’s most celebrated regions while maintaining the freedom to travel at your own pace.

Itinerary

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A representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the Sleep Inn Hotel in San Jose, (or similar). You will receive an itinerary that includes the initial pick up times and telephone numbers for the following day. Please check with hotel reception at check in. You will be rafting tomorrow, so you may want to prepare a dry day pack to carry with you as access to your main luggage will be limited and transferred to the Pacuare River Lodge to rendezvous with later in the day.

Meals: Nil

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS…with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the “put in” on the Pacuare River for our two-day whitewater rafting adventure. We will run a total of 10 kilometers of Class II-III rapids today exploring the magnificent river valley. By afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, El Nido de Tigre (or similar) which nestles between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river. This area of rainforest is maintained as much as possible in its natural state. From the center of the camp, trails radiate out to secreted areas of rainforest, take time to explore the lush environment first hand looking out for toucans overhead or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the river.

Meals: B,L,D

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We will run a total of 25 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids. We maneuver through the exhilarating rapids and point out the intricacies of the rainforest at the river’s edge. Along the way we take time out to do some hiking to spectacular waterfalls and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” near the town of Siquirres we drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to the Arenal Volcano. There is a wide choice of restaurants to choose from in La Fortuna for dinner.

Meals: B,L

In the morning we enjoy a picturesque walk through the tropical rainforest. We will be around 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges, one of the highlights in this area. Here we'll have wonderful panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall which falls 120ft to a large natural swimming pool. The descent is steep and we take the stair set down to the waterfall as we become immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. The falls spill over into smaller gentler pour overs and swim areas which are our natural playground before we begin our ascent. The afternoon may be spent exploring the town of La Fortuna or relaxing in your hotel. Thanks to the Arenal Volcano’s geothermal activity, there is a number of natural hot springs throughout the area. They are designed to be very much in tune with their natural environment and offer a fantastic way to relax in the warm and soothing mineral waters while enjoying spectacular scenery in close proximity, that’s why you will be transfer tonight at one of these amazing thermal waters where the entrance and a delicious dinner will be also included.

Meals: B,D

Free time to explore Manuel Antonio and the National Park. It takes about five hours to get to the National Park. The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is a treasure chest of natural beauty. In Manuel Antonio the rainforest dramatically meets the Pacific Ocean as it bows down to greet the white sandy beaches. It is a great place to relax or to explore the National Park. You will often be awakened by the local monkeys – howler, white-faced and squirrel are the most common in the area, as well as iguanas and land crabs. To make the most of your time at the beach, you can book the following optional activities (additional cost): Canopy Tour, Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling, Islas Damas Mangrove Kayak Trip or Boat Trip, Catamaran & Snorkeling Adventure, Surfing lessons. Speak with our Reservations staff for details and pricing.

Meals: B

The morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the beach. In the afternoon, you will be transferred by road back to San Jose. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San Jose.

Meals: B

This morning you will be transferred to San Jose airport after breakfast where the trip concludes.

Meals: B

Expand all | Collapse all

You will be met on arrival at San Jose’s international airport and taken to your hotel.

Meals: Nil

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS…with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the “put in” on the Pacuare River for our two-day whitewater rafting adventure. We will run a total of 10 kilometers of Class II-III rapids today exploring the magnificent river valley. By afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, El Nido de Tigre (or similar) which nestles between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river. This area of rainforest is maintained as much as possible in its natural state. From the center of the camp, trails radiate out to secreted areas of rainforest, take time to explore the lush environment first hand looking out for toucans overhead or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the river.

Meals: B,L,D

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We will run a total of 25 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids. We maneuver through the exhilarating rapids and point out the intricacies of the rainforest at the river’s edge. Along the way we take time out to do some hiking to spectacular waterfalls and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” near the town of Siquirres we drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to the Arenal Volcano. There is a wide choice of restaurants to choose from in La Fortuna for dinner.

Meals: B,L

In the morning we enjoy a picturesque walk through the tropical rainforest. We will be around 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges, one of the highlights in this area. Here we'll have wonderful panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall which falls 120ft to a large natural swimming pool. The descent is steep and we take the stair set down to the waterfall as we become immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. The falls spill over into smaller gentler pour overs and swim areas which are our natural playground before we begin our ascent. The afternoon may be spent exploring the town of La Fortuna or relaxing in your hotel. Thanks to the Arenal Volcano’s geothermal activity, there is a number of natural hot springs throughout the area. They are designed to be very much in tune with their natural environment and offer a fantastic way to relax in the warm and soothing mineral waters while enjoying spectacular scenery in close proximity, that’s why you will be transfer tonight at one of these amazing thermal waters where the entrance and a delicious dinner will be also included.

Meals: B,D

Monteverede is one of the world's most famous cloud forests. It takes about four hours to get to Monteverde by car/boat/car. You will be transferred by car to Arenal Lake, then take a 30 minute boat ride across the picturesque Lake Arenal to the town of Río Chiquito on the south side of the lake from where you will be transported by car to your hotel in Monteverde. Breakfast is included before you depart. You can choose your own spot for lunch and dinner in Monteverde.

Meals: B

There are a variety of optional activities in Monteverde: guided or solo hike through Monteverde or Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, Canopy Tour, a walk around the galleries and coffee houses of Santa Elena, Don Juan Coffee Tour, horseback riding, etc. Most activities can be booked by your hotel or you can pre-book them through World Expeditions.

Meals: B

There is time this morning to continue to enjoy the Cloud Forest before your pick up for the return journey to San Jose. The evening is free to enjoy the nightlife and restaurants of San Jose.

Meals: B

This morning you will be transferred to San Jose airport after breakfast where the trip concludes.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

16 scheduled departures between 7 Nov 2026 and 4 Dec 2027.

  • Departs 7 Nov 2026 – ends 14 Nov 2026 (8 days)
  • Departs 5 Dec 2026 – ends 12 Dec 2026 (8 days)
  • Departs 2 Jan 2027 – ends 9 Jan 2027 (8 days)
  • Departs 16 Jan 2027 – ends 23 Jan 2027 (8 days)
  • Departs 6 Feb 2027 – ends 13 Feb 2027 (8 days)
  • Departs 6 Mar 2027 – ends 13 Mar 2027 (8 days)
  • … and 10 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Accommodation on a twin-share basis
  • 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
  • Internal transport
  • Expert local guide
  • Airport Transfers on Day 1 and Day 8
  • Group rafting equipment

Not included

  • Drinks of any kind (e.g. bottled water, soft drinks, beers etc)
  • Items of a personal nature ie laundry, phone calls
  • International airfares and airport taxes
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • Optional activities on Days 5, 6 & 7

About your guide

For groups smaller than 6 people, a local leader will join you on each section of the trip from days 1 to 4. For groups of 6 or more people, a local leader will travel with you from the start of day 1 to day 4. On days 5-7 you will be without a guide and free to do as much or as little as you like depending on the option you take. Our guides are bilingual and many of our departures are conducted in English as well as Spanish or another second language.

Reviews (4)

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Customer service with World Expeditions was fantastic. Every time I had a question, I was able to speak with a real human person and get honest answers. Thank you!!

Rebecca Fifelski|Novi, Michigan, United States
27 Sep 2023
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Beautiful country with friendly residents. Easy to get around and many activities!

Mark Zaremski|Michigan, United States
19 Sep 2023
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loved it

Therese Lee|Coffee Camp, NSW Australia
31 Mar 2023
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Costa Rica was fabulous and the people were very friendly. All the adventures organsied were great fun - we loved the ziplining in Monteverde.

K. Greaves|Rivett, ACT, Australia

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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