Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure

  • 9 Days
  • 18 People Max

    5 - 14 guests

  • Activity Level 2
    • Activity Level 2

      On the Move

      Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: San Jose
  • Trip End: San Jose
tortuguero v3

Discover untamed landscapes filled to the brim with unique wildlife on our Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure.

There's no better way to turn off your busy life and take a deep dive into the peaceful culture and pristine landscapes of Costa Rica than on our 9-day Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure. Starting in San José, you'll embrace the Pura Vida (pure life) over the next nine days as you hike, raft, and kayak through the Tortuguero National Park.  Listen to bird melodies as you float down the Pacuare River, horse-back ride through the unique vegetation of Arenal Volcano National Park, and hike in the beautiful National Parks of the Caribbean. By evening, relax with a cold drink in hand at premium eco-lodges. Each day brings new discoveries and a deeper love for the Pura Vida culture on our Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure.

Trip Highlights

Tortuguero National Park canals

KayakingKayaking

Cerro Tortuguero

HikingHiking

Paddle the Pacuare River rapids

Plus ...Plus ...

Canyoning and zip lining

Plus ...Plus ...

Horseback Riding to Arenal Volcano

Plus ...Plus ...

Download Our Handy Trip Itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: San Jose Trip End: San Jose

Download our Handy Trip itenary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip

  • Day 1Arrive in San José, welcome!

  • Day 2Arrival at Arenal, Horseback ride in Arenal Volcano National Park

  • Day 3Zipline through rainforest canopy, Hike to El Silencio Lava Lookout

  • Day 4Waterfall rappel and canyoning, Hike La Fortuna

  • Day 5Kayaking Tortuguero Canals

  • Day 6Hike up Cerro Tortuguero, visit wildlife refuge

  • Day 7Paddle the world-class rapids of Pacuare River

  • Day 8Rafting the Pacuare Gorge, return to San José

  • Day 9Adiós Costa Rica!

  • Day 1

    Arrive in San José, welcome!

    Arrive at the San José International Airport and transfer to your hotel for the evening. Once you arrive, you are free to explore San José and enjoy a delectable local meal on your own.

    Xandari Resort

  • Day 2

    Arrival at Arenal, Horseback ride in Arenal Volcano National Park

    This morning we’ll journey through coffee plantations, strawberry fields, and lush dairy farms to Poas Volcano National Park. The 2,708 meter (8,885 feet) Poas Volcano is an active and beautiful crater with steam and fumaroles visible on clear days from a specially made refuge we will hike to. The park is home to unusual vegetation, and famous residents such as the Resplendent Quetzal, the Fiery-throated Hummingbird, and the Sooty Thrush. After lunch we’ll saddle up for a wonderful horseback ride through the park. The horses are trained for all levels of riders from beginner to expert, so you will be able to relax and enjoy the ride! This is a unique way to experience of the Arenal Volcano with plenty of opportunities to see monkeys, sloths, iguanas, butterflies and an array of native birds and flowers, that your guide will point out along the way. We’ll take a break at a lookout point with the most spectacular view of Arenal Volcano, before heading back to transfer to the hotel to enjoy a delicious dinner.

    Arenal Lavas Tacotal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Horse-back Riding: 2 1/2 hours; 100 meters (328 feet) elevation
    Hiking: 1.6 kilometers (1 mile)

  • Day 3

    Zipline through rainforest canopy, Hike to El Silencio Lava Lookout

    Today we’ll enjoy a thrilling circuit starting in an open-air gondola (Sky Tram) through the rain forest to an observation deck with spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake. We’ll then enjoy superb views of the rain forest canopy via an exhilarating zipline ride through a system of seven cables. This will be followed up by a walk along a system of hanging bridges to look for birds and animals in the rain forest! After lunch we’ll hike to the El Silencio Lava Lookout for extraordinary views of the Arenal Volcano. The El Silencio Mirador contains a series of hiking trails within a 555 acres (225 ha) reserve, with over 247 acres (100 ha) of primary rainforest that includes many old-growth trees including the Ceiba, Trumpet Tree, and Guarumo. This evening you can relax after all the adventure, at the Ecotermales Hot Spring, a natural hot springs thermal resort boasting rejuvenating mineral waters.

    Arenal Lavas Tacotal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 2 hours; 8 kilometers (5 miles); 30 meters (100 feet) elevation
    Zip Lining: 2 hours

  • Day 4

    Waterfall rappel and canyoning, Hike La Fortuna

    This morning’s exhilarating experience is to rappel down a series of four waterfalls and one canyon wall. Your guides will secure you into your safety harness and assist you as you descend through the area’s enchanting gorges and lush rainforest.  After a delcious lunch, we’ll hike the La Fortuna Waterfalls trail in pristine rainforest in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. The hike takes in beautiful scenery and the majestic 70-meter (230 feet) high La Catarata Waterfall. The walk descends to the base via 480 steps along a forested trail in spectacular surroundings and offering more wildlife viewing opportunities. End the walk with a refreshing swim in a “natural pool” before we head back to the hotel for dinner.

    Arenal Lavas Tacotal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles); 1.5 hours; 530 steps
    Canyoning: Rappel 4 x waterfalls

  • Day 5

    Kayaking Tortuguero Canals

    After breakfast we’ll transfer by boat from La Pavona to your lodge in Tortuguero. After checking in and enjoying lunch at Evergreen Lodge, we’ll then leave by boat with kayaks on board. This afternoon you’ll paddle the park’s back water creeks and lagoons in safety and comfort. You don't need any prior kayaking experience; your guide will be there to offer you instructions and guidance! Kayaking gives you a whole new perspective of the rainforest. From this position you become the river, looking up to a unique view of the rainforest canopy, and scanning the understory of the forest for foragers. In the creek’s silence you may hear a gunshot like crack as the seed pod of the Gavilan tree bursts to disperse its seeds, or hear the call of the Chestnut Mandibled toucan, or the sound of Spider monkeys crashing through the trees. After two hours of paddling, you and your guide will pack up your gear and return to the lodge. We’ll enjoy a wonderful dinner at the lodge.

    Evergreen Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Kayaking: 2 hours

  • Day 6

    Hike up Cerro Tortuguero, visit wildlife refuge

    After breakfast at the lodge we’ll boat transfer to the Caribbean village of San Francisco, the gateway to Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge, which spans 81,177 hectares of coastal habitats, including lakes, rivers, herbaceous swamps, flooded forests, and rolling hills. Hiking up Cerro Tortuguero offers a rare glimpse of the fascinating mixed-wildlife ecosystems unique to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Your seasoned local guide will point out several species of Costa Rica wildlife as you hike the well-maintained trail through dense rainforest foliage. Howler, Capuchin, and Spider monkeys, poison dart frogs, sloths, and several types of wild cats are among the hundreds of species residing in the park. Upon arrival at the peak, enjoy the breathtaking 360-degree view of the Caribbean lowlands, vast rainforests, and the complex network of rivers stretching eastward to the Atlantic Ocean. Cerro Tortuguero ecotourism generates important work opportunities and economic benefits for the small communities near the park. Their residents work hand in hand with park administration to promote regional conservation objectives and ensure each visitor is welcomed to an authentic and memorable experience.  After a typical Costa Rican lunch we’ll enjoy a Tortuguero National Park canal boat tour, through Costa Rica’s "little Amazon".  There are no roads, just a series of rivers and canals or by foot on forest paths. This is one of the best places to observe wildlife in Costa Rica. Keep an eye out for monkeys, iguanas, crested basilisk lizards (they look like miniature dinosaurs!), sloths, lots of water birds, toucans, parrots, parakeets, caiman (cousins of alligators), and possibly crocodiles, as well as colorful tropical forest birds. We’ll then head back to the lodge for an authentic Costa Rican dinner.

    Evergreen Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles); 1.5 hours; 400 steps to reach summit
    Cruise: Tortuguero National Park

  • Day 7

    Paddle the world-class rapids of Pacuare River

    Enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning our boat and road transfer from Guapiles to Pavona Dock. Our afternoon will be spent rafting the exhilarating class II-III rapids of the Pacuare River, ranked one of the Top 10 Rivers to Raft in the World by National Geographic. We’ll then check into the Tropical Rivers Lodge and meet for dinner in the restaurant.

    Tropical Rivers Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Rafting: White Water Rafting Class II & III rapids; 16 kilometers (10 miles); 2 hours

  • Day 8

    Rafting the Pacuare Gorge, return to San José

    Start another beautiful morning sipping a cup of coffee while bird watching at the lodge. From here the pace will quickly pick up, as our day is filled with an invigorating white water rafting excursion - the best way to experience Costa Rica! You’ll be rafting the famous Pacuare Gorge on an unforgettable experience down exciting Class III and IV rapids, past cascading waterfalls, and magnificent jungle. Watch for brightly colored tropical birds flying overhead and other exotic wildlife. Along the way, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch that your guides will prepare. When you reach the take-out point, you'll visit a location where you can freshen up, shower, and change your clothes before heading back to San Jose.  We’ll enjoy our farewell dinner together reminiscing on all we have experienced on this incredible Costa Rican adventure. Pura Vida!

    Xandari Resort (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Rafting: White Water Rafting Class III & IV rapids; 13.7 kilometers (8.5 miles); 2.5 hours

  • Day 9

    Adiós Costa Rica!

    This morning we’ll say our farewells and head to the airport for private departures.

    No Accommodation (Breakfast)

Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year
USD $5999/per adult
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22 Mar 2024
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22 Mar30 Mar
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19 Apr 2024
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19 Apr27 Apr
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17 May 2024
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17 May25 May
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14 Jun 2024
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14 Jun22 Jun
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12 Jul 2024
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9 Aug 2024
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9 Aug17 Aug
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6 Sep 2024
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4 Oct 2024
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1 Nov 2024
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13 Dec 2024
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27 Dec 2024
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21 Feb 2025
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4 Apr 2025
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2 May 2025
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13 Jun 2025
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Included

  • Our own highly experienced trip leader, with you from start to finish
  • Industry-leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Travel Wallet’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • All accommodations for the duration of your trip
  • All meals except where indicated in the itinerary
  • Unlimited snacks to keep you fueled
  • Flights as outlined in the itinerary
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
  • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!

What Our Guests Say

Trip Map

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Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T&Cs Apply. Read more here.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip we’ll meet you at the San Jose at Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría International Airport when you arrive and transfer you to Xandari Resort

After passing through Immigration, you will be greeted by a member of the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR). You will be given a sticker that helps our representative identify you once you exit the airport building. Take the right-hand side exit door and proceed to customs. When you leave the building after clearing customs, look for a representative who will be holding a sign with your name on it.

If you're arriving in Costa Rica earlier, you are welcome to make your own way to the hotel on Day 1, and you'll meet the group for breakfast and orientation at 7am on Day 2.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends after breakfast with a drop-off at the Juan Santamaria International Airport in time for flights below.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: If you are flying in on the first day of the trip, you can arrive into San Jose at any time. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, you can depart anytime after breakfast from Juan Santamaria Airport. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

The unique and comfortable Xandari Resort is set among acres of lush gardens where guests can truly experience the world famous beauty of Costa Rica. Original pieces of Costa Rican art complement the stunning landscaped tropical gardens dominated by tall trees, plentiful flowers, ponds, and mountain views.

Evergreen Lodge is located in the northeastern corner of Tortuguero, 5 minutes by boat from the main
entrance to Tortuguero National Park, and accessible only by air and water. Evergreen Lodge is the ideal location from which to explore this unique and magical area, surrounded by towering trees and exuberant vegetation and are adorned with tropical designs.

At Tropical Rivers Lodge you can relax, explore and enjoy all that Costa Rica offers on our 2,000-acre private reserve at the mouth of the Pacuare Gorge. We have more than 40 miles of hiking trails and numerous waterfalls, streams and pools. Our open-air dining pavilion and lounge let you watch the local wildlife and listen to the sounds only found in a tropical paradise.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You’ll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days. 

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Is tipping expected in Costa Rica?

Most people do choose to tip their Active Adventures guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide. You are welcome to tip an equivalent amount in the local currency. There are plenty of ATM’s and banks in the larger towns of Costa Rica. During your Active Adventures trip, your guides will take care of all included restaurants and service tips for you. For other restaurants or services during your time in Costa Rica, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.

What is not included?

Flights to and from trip start/end points
Pre/Post accommodation
Optional extra activities
Travel insurance
Gratuities for your guides
Rental gear

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Why Travel With Us

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Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

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Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit all inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

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Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

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Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

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"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.

Trip Inquiry

Central & South America

Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure

USD $5999/per adult
$500 USD deposit per person required to secure your place on the trip

What To Expect

  • Place your booking
  • Receive your confirmation email & details to set up your Travel Wallet
  • Our dedicated team will keep you up to date all the way to the departure date

Dates

2024
2025

March 2024

Friday 22 March 2024
To Saturday 30 March 2024
Open

Friday 19 April 2024
To Saturday 27 April 2024
Open

Friday 17 May 2024
To Saturday 25 May 2024
Full

Friday 14 June 2024
To Saturday 22 June 2024
Full

Friday 12 July 2024
To Saturday 20 July 2024
Open

Friday 9 August 2024
To Saturday 17 August 2024
Open

Friday 6 September 2024
To Saturday 14 September 2024
Open

Friday 4 October 2024
To Saturday 12 October 2024
Open

Friday 1 November 2024
To Saturday 9 November 2024
Open

Friday 13 December 2024
To Saturday 21 December 2024
Open
Friday 27 December 2024
To Saturday 4 January 2025
Open

Friday 10 January 2025
To Saturday 18 January 2025
Open

Friday 21 February 2025
To Saturday 1 March 2025
Open

Friday 21 March 2025
To Saturday 29 March 2025
Open

Friday 4 April 2025
To Saturday 12 April 2025
Open

Friday 2 May 2025
To Saturday 10 May 2025
Open

Friday 13 June 2025
To Saturday 21 June 2025
Open