An ideal trip for those who want a little adventure, beautiful sights and some time to just plain kick back on the beach. Enjoy the excitement of whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, hiking and soothing hot springs at Arenal Volcano, and palm fringed beaches on the Pacific Coast. From one side of Costa Rica to the other, an exciting and fun way to get a good taste of this diverse country and enjoy some relaxing holiday time.

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Detail Itinerary

Day 1 San José (Arrival)

Arrival in Costa Rica. After welcoming you at San José airport your guide will bring you to a comfortable hotel in the city and take time to answer any questions, meet the group and prepare for your multi-activity adventure trip. The evening is free to explore San José.

Day 2 Pacuare River

Day 1 of your 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 27 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids exploring the magnificent river valley. This afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, “El Nido del Tigre.” Nestled between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river, 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. (B, L, D)

Day 3 Pacuare River

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. 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 Arenal Volcano. (B, L)

Day 4 Arenal Volcano

Today is spent hiking in the area to fully appreciate the splendor of the Arenal Volcano. During the hike, we will see many kinds of plants, birds and other animal species that call the rainforest home. Through private trails into the primary forest - a unique experience surrounded by a great variety of flora and fauna of breathtaking beauty. Exact route will depend upon the group but will be a full day of hiking. We end the day with dinner and a soak at the Tabacon Hot Springs Resort, and if the night is clear, we get the unique opportunity to see the red glow of the volcano’s molten lava from the relaxing thermal waters. (B, L, D)

From Arenal you have two options

Option 1 Beach

Day 5 & 6 Manuel Antonio Beach

Today we leave Arenal and cross the country to the Pacific Coast and to the treasure chest of natural beauty that is Manuel Antonio, its beaches and nearby world famous Manuel Antonio National Park. The gardens of the hotel meet the soft sand beaches and the ocean, with the entrance to the park just 10 minutes walking distance. Howler, White-face and Squirrel monkey, basilisks, iguanas and land crabs are among the frequent visitors. Either take a few days to relax at the pool or on the beach or if you feel energetic, choose from the options below. (B)

Day 7 Beach - San José

The morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the beach. At mid-day a local flight takes you back to San José. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San José. (B)

Day 8 San José (Departure)

A Costarican Adrenaline Adventures representative will drive you to the airport for your return flight home. (B)

Option 2 Cloud Forest

Day 5 Arenal to Monteverde

You have a choice of transportation for your journey to Monteverde:

a) Horseback ride. This method of travel between the Arenal Volcano and Monteverde offers the best views of the volcano and lush mountains. Your luggage will either accompany you by packhorse or be transported by boat as circumstances allow. If you are looking for a little adventure and a chance to get around in Costa Rica without having to take a bus or taxi then this is the way to go! (approximately 4 hours). Or

b) For those not comfortable with a horseback ride, 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.

Day 6 Monteverde CLoud Forest

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, or tour of local cheese factory. (B)

Day 7 Monteverde - San José

Free time in Monteverde in the morning before a three and half hour drive to San Jose. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San José. (B)

Day 8 San José (Departure)

A Costarican Adrenaline Adventures representative will drive you to the airport for your return flight home. (B)

Note

All dates are guaranteed departures. We will open a new date with a minimum of 4 people.

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For those who want to make the most their time at the beach and be active choose from the following optional activities. Simply add the price of your choice to the total price of the Costa Rican Adventure and all the bookings will be made in advance.