San José

Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport to welcome to our country and drive to your hotel, located in the capital, very close to parks and museums.

PRIVATE TRANSFER AIRPORT - HOTEL

LODGING IN SAN JOSE & BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Optional activity

The local bar tour : Let our local guide take you to the cantina’s where the Chepe’s go themselves and enjoy some drinks with your new local friends. In every bar 1 drink or shot is included in the price. You can also enjoy a “Boca” or Gallo”, a typical tapa, at one of the bars. 

Accommodation

Turrialba

We definitely want you to experience it: An area on the verge of the Caribbean tropics, so rich and fertile that it’s the land for both coffee and sugar cane, as well as macadamia nuts and the oh-so-local pejibaye. This is the place where captain Morgan (yes, the pirate!) was defeated and forced back into the Caribbean Sea. This incredibly lush land is also home to the largest indigenous archeological site in the country and an active volcano that is often overlooked. This is not the typical tourist spot, but it is definitely the perfect setting to experience the rich natural and cultural transition between the Central Valley and the Caribbean jungle. 

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED 
LODGING & BREAKFAST INCLUDED 

Distance San José – Turrialba: 85 km 
Duration: 2 hours approx.

Accommodation

Turrialba

In Turrialba, you can explore sustainable agricultural plantations and learn about the groundbreaking scientific discoveries sprouting from one of the leading rainforest research centers. You can discover the secrets of Costa Rica’s main pre-Columbian indigenous city and quench your thirst for adventure by partaking in a variety of activities along the Pacuare river. Top it all off with breathtaking views of the Turrialba volcano, once dormant, now sporting a proud plume of smoke and ashes that can be seen from every corner of this region, a sight not to miss!!!

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED 
LODGING & BREAKFAST INCLUDED 

Optional activities:

1. Tropical plantations mountain bike ride:
   You will bike along tropical plantations of one of the top rainforest research centers in the world. During this tour you discover the secrets of sustainable agriculture. All sorts of tropical delicacies are being cultivated here: cacao, sugar cane, bananas, macadamia nuts, pineapple, mango among others. (duration: approx.. 3 hours).
2. Guayabo Archeological Monument:
   Tucked away in the shadows of the Turrialba Volcano, lies the mythical lost city and National Indigenous Monument: Guayabo. It is Costa Rica’s most important archeological site and our expert-guided tour provides an opportunity to explore the remains of what was believed to be a bustling 10 000 people city which vanished mysteriously right before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadores in the 16th century. (duration: approx. 3 hours)
3. Pacuare River Rafting:
   Discover the lush rain forest while rafting down the world famous Pacuare River. Rapids are class III to IV. Not only will this day be an exciting adventure, you will also have the chance to admire the lush forest from a different angle. (full day, lunch included).
   On the raft you will be accompanied by an experienced guide. First you receive the equipment and get a briefing for your security. There will also be guides in kayaks who will take pictures and help you out if you would happen to fall into the water.
4. Canyoning & Canopy:
   Feel the adrenaline while you descend cliffs and waterfalls in this this small but lush canyon. The canyoning tour begins with an introduction by the guide, who will explain all about the equipment and help you familiarize with it. The tour starts at the first waterfall where  the guide will give a speech on safety. And then you are off on a 2-3 hour adventure: rappelling down 4 waterfalls, zip lining down 4 canopy cables, and walking across a 132 foot hanging bridge. Minimum age is 7 years.
5. Pejibaye River floating:
   This is a perfect family river rafting experience. Pejibaye has class I-III rapids, which means: not too hard and easier/calmer than the Pacuare River. There are more and longer quiet parts where your guide will encourage you to jump out of the raft and go for a little swim. Minimum age is 7 years old.

San Gerardo de Dota

Nestled in the Savegre River Valley, tourism hasn't quite hit this quaint settlement yet which provides quick access to the recently named Los Quetzales National Park. The name says it all: bird lovers come from all over to observe the elusive Quetzal bird which lives here year-round. 

Nature enthusiasts will marvel at the plethora of hummingbird and woodpeckers, whose buzzing and hard labor fills the forest air.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED 
LODGING & BREAKFAST INCLUDED 

Distance Turrialba – San Gerardo de Dota: 114 km 
Duration: 3 hours approx.

San Gerardo de Dota 

This place is magical, please make sure you enjoy this day walking in the cloud forest and watching the colorful Quetzal.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED 
LODGING & BREAKFAST INCLUDED 

Optional activities

1. Quetzal Quest
   San Gerardo de Dota is home to a large population of one of the most beautiful birds in the Americas, the Resplendent Quetzal. From the Trogoniade family and a sacred bird to the ancient indigenous cultures, the Quetzal resides here all year round. The climate and good amount of food ( Aguacatillo tree) provide a great habitat for these birds.
   Join our local guide for coffee, before departing at 6.00 AM on a quest to find Quetzals. Our guide will try to spot them for you. With its metallic green plumage, crimson breast and bell, its incredible steamer-like feathers, watching a male Quetzal in its magical flight, is a unique, breathtaking experience.
   Return to the lodge at 08.00 AM for breakfast. Difficulty: mild. Make sure to bring a good jacket, raingear, walking/comfortable shoes, camera and binoculars.
2. Cerro La Muerte Hike
   A 6 hours ‘hike for the experienced hiker and the adventurous! We will drive up from the lodge to the peak of the mountain in the area of Cerro de la Muerte and will be dropped off there. The hike will go downhill for 10,5 kilometers (6,5 miles). Along the way, enjoy observing plant and bird species. Participants are required to be in excellent physical conditions and have hiking experience. Please bring good hiking/trail shoes, light jacket/windbreaker, hat, sunblock, walking stick, binoculars and camera. There will also be a Reserve fee to pay on the spot, not included in the tour price.
3. Paramo Forest Walk
   The “Paramo” is a unique highland area that develops in altitudes higher than 3 000 meters above sea level ( 9840 feet approx.); an ecosystem that develops on the summits with its unique fauna an flora. We will take you to an altitude of 3 300 meters (10 800 feet) to discover, with your tour guide, the variety of birds and plants that reside here. We will drive up to the summit where the tour will develop.
   Difficulty: Intermediate good physical conditions required. Be aware of altitude sickness.

Salitre Indigenous territory

After breakfast, you’ll return to the road. 

Bribripá Kaneblo, is an indigenous Bribri community with a great wish to illustrate its cultural values to those who visit them. Proud to demonstrate who they are, they will teach you about the Bribri worldview, the use of medicinal plants and the process of milling corn, as well as some of their sacred rituals. They are located in the Salitre indigenous territory in Buenos Aires - an area of great beauty with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

CAR RENTAL, LDW & GPS INCLUDED 
BRIBRIPA U PAKO, LUNCH INCLUDED - NON optional activity
BRIBRIPA KANEBLO RURAL LODGE, DINNER & BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance San Gerardo de Dota – Salitre, Buenos Aires: 128 km 
Duration: 2 ½ hours approx.

Drake Bay

Drive southern to Sierpe dock, where you will meet with the car rental representative to return the car. Then, take a 45 minutes ride on a small boat to Drake Bay. 

CAR RENTAL RETURN 
BOAT SIERPE – DRAKE 
LODGING AND BREAKFAST INCLUDED IN STANDARD OPTION - LODGING AND ALL MEALS INCLUDED IN SUPERIOR OPTION

Distance Salitre, Buenos Aires - Serpe: 83 km 
Duration: 1 ½ hour approx.

Accomodation

Drake Bay

During your stay at Drake Bay, you will be surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the ocean and the tropical sounds of the jungle. Embrace adventure and take in nature with the surrounding pristine beaches, crystal clear ocean and river waters, miles upon miles of untouched rainforest, and the most amazing underwater habitats that Costa Rica has to offer. 

MANOLO CABINS, STANDARD ROOM, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

or

TRANQUILO LODGE, DELUXE VILLA & ALL MEALS INCLUDED 

Optional activities

1. Snorkling at Isla del Caño &
2. Diving at Isla del caño:
   This is hands down one of the most beautiful ways to experience Costa Rica. Because of the island’s corals and diversity of marine life, Isla del Caño is considered one of the best diving areas in Costa Rica.
   The visibility here is excellent. It varies from site to site but averages 50 feet plus. Water temperatures are normally over 25 degrees Celsius (in the 80’s Fahrenheit) with thermoclines at various depths. Glide through the water with a giant manta Ray or sea turtle, or observe huge schools of barracuda, jacks and rays that frequent the area. If you are lucky you may even witness an awe-inspiring whale shark. Humpback whales frequent the area from July to October, and also dolphins are a common sight.
   Duration: 5-6 hours.
   What to bring: swimsuit, sunscreen, hiking shoes (optional)
   What is included? Scuba equipment (mask and tube), guide, dive master, two dives each, boat ride.
   Please note that boat landings can be wet due to the fact that there are no docks so you need to get off in the ocean. Also there are no toilets on the island. You are in unspoiled nature. Be sure to pack things in a water resistant bag. Depending on the weather conditions the Ocean can be calm but it can also be less calm.
3. Corcovado National Park
   National Geographic has called Corcovado National Park “one of the most biologically intense places on earth in terms of biodiversity”, as it hosts 13 different types of ecosystems in such close proximity supporting an abundance of stunning wildlife. The 105 000 acre park is widely considered the “crown jewel” in Costa Rica’s extensive system of national parks and biological reserves. It also contains one of the few remaining coastal, virgin, lowland rain forests in existence.
   There are 2 ranger stations from which you can start your visit:
   1. Sirena Ranger Station – Corcovado NP:
      La Sirena is the most important, and also most secluded, ranger station. From Drake Bay it takes about 1,5 hours by boot to get there. During a walk in this area you will discover how powerful nature can be when she is not stopped by human beings. Look for magical plants and mysterious animals together with an experienced guide.
   2. San pedrillo Ranger Station – Corcovado NP:
      From Drake Bay it is only 45 minutes by boat to get to San Pedrillo Ranger Station. This station is mainly known for its botanical observations. An experienced guide will take you along trails in the primary forest and will try to spot wildlife for you. You have the chance to make some great pictures. At noon you can have a pick nick at the ranger station. After lunch, take a refreshing dip by a waterfall in the rain forest.

   This tour will take about 6 to 7 hours. Included are: entrance fees, professional guide, scenic boat ride along the Osa coast, picknick lunch.
   The boat landings can be wet due to the fact that there are no docks, you need to get off the boat in the water. Please bring swimming gear, water shoes, and a water resistant bag with good walking shoes, light trousers, long-sleeved shirt, hat, light rain gear, extra drinking water, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and of course: your camera.
   !!! Access to the park is limited, so we highly advise booking these tours as early as possible to ensure availability.

4. Night walk with Lady Bug:
   Discover the fascinating nocturnal world of the rainforest. You, and your knowledgeable guide, the “Bug Lady” will look for the creatures that come out at night. Explore the fascinating world of tropical insects and arachnids during this exciting tour.
   In Costa Rica it turns dark very suddenly, and around 6.00 PM already,  as if somebody turns off the switch. So this tour starts already at 7.30 PM and lasts until about 10.15 PM. Please wear closed and easy shoes ( no sandals!).
   You will be surprised about the fact that there will be no mosquitos during this hike. It is best to take your spray, just in case but it is unlikely that you would meet any mosquitos on your way.
5. Horse-riding at the beach:
   Horseback riding is a great way to explore the Drake Bay area by an extensive trail system that runs along pristine beaches and into the primary jungle where you will get to explore beautiful waterfalls, cross rivers and see a variety of wildlife.
   No experience needed. Duration : 3 hours

San José

Today you take the boat back to Sierpe and a flight back to San José (50 minutes). Your driver will be waiting for you to take you to the hotel.

After you leave your luggage, you will meet our guide who will take you to have lunch in a cozy restaurant before you start walking in San José. Let him show you our capital like a friend would show you. From public libraries that were torn down and became corky parking lots, to hidden pieces of the Berlin Wall as well as kitsch canteens nestled in the local market.

BOAT DRAKE BAY – SIERPE

FLIGHT TO SAN JOSE

PRIVATE TRANSFER AIRPORT – HOTEL

WALKING CITY TOUR WITH A LOCAL GUIDE & LUNCH INCLUDED

LODGING & BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Accomodation

On day 10 you have the same accommodation options in San José as on day 1.

End of tour OR optional extension

All good things come to an end. In case you have chosen our Wid Southern tour of 11 days, without optional extension, our driver will take you to the airport.

PRIVATE TRANSFER HOTEL - AIRPORT

But...why stop now? We offer a great optional extension, which will take you by shuttle van from San José to beautiful Monteverde and Arenal Volcano. To top it all off you will enjoy a few days at the beach in Samara or in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Please read on to find out more about this optional extension.

Monteverde

Welcome to the mysteriously hypnotizing cloud forest of Monteverde. This is the perfect setting for zip-lining and exploring the tree canopy via hanging bridges.

Monteverde is a breath-taking rainbow–covered valley in the clouds, on clear days offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Arenal Volcano.

SHUTTLE TRANSFER SAN JOSE - MONTEVERDE
LODGING, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance San José - Monteverde: 138 km
Duration: 3 hours approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: Cabinas Los Pinos, standard cabina *breakfast included at Stella’s Restaurant*

Cabanas Los Pinos’ individual cabins are surrounded by pine trees and beautifully landscaped gardens. Every cabin is tastefully furnished with a living and dining area, full kitchen, electronic safe and private parking area. Indeed, these cabins have everything one would need to stay in Monteverde for a week, a month, or a year. Separate bedrooms are equipped with large and comfortable beds, while private bathrooms are fitted with hot water showers. Breakfast is not served at the cabin but it is included at Stella’s Restaurant, which is less than a 1 km walk.

Superior option: Cloud Forest Lodge, standard room

Cloud Forest Lodge accommodations are designed to create a balance between nature and comfort. The spacious bungalow-style bedrooms are simple and basic to provide a real mountain lodge experience. They are however, very cozy, comfortable and warm to enhance the natural feel of home. All rooms have a front porch for quiet relaxation, read your favorite book peacefully or take a quiet walk through the butterfly gardens. Outside the rooms they have carefully preserved gardens with local native plant life, animal life, birds and butterflies that interact directly with the guests.

Monteverde

LODGING, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Optional activities

1. Hanging bridges & Sloth habitat
   Take a calm walk through the canopy and soak up the beauty of this unique cloud forest. The challenge is to spot a sloth climbing by slowly! They hang out in the trees.
2. ​Zipline, Superman & Tarzan Swing
   Yes, you will scream, and yes, you will think twice before doing it, but once it is over, you will all want to go again. Monteverde is the absolute perfect spot to go ziplining. You will start off with about 10 smaller ziplines so you really get the hang of it before facing the Superman zipline. This is a zipline with a length of 1500 metres! You go in true Superman style, meaning: on your belly, head first. Once you have recovered from flying over the valley, you can swing through the forest in Tarzan style!
3. Meet the Quakers of Monteverde
   In 1949, after serving time for refusing to fight in the Korean War, four pacifist Quakers from Alabama sought a country where they could embrace their peaceful beliefs and continue to cultivate their dairy farms. Costa Rica had abolished its army in 1948 and had underdeveloped mountainsides that were perfect for their trade. So, in 1950 several Quakers picked up their belongings and moved to Monteverde where they began to farm and live in peace.  These families, along with some of the area’s locals, have established the most eco-minded community in the country. On this exclusive tour, you will get to meet the families of the original Quakers and you will hear their story first hand.
4. ​Monteverde Reserve Guided Walk
   Discover the tropical rainforest with our experienced guide. This will give you great opportunities to spot mammals, birds and plants, which you would probably not even notice without the presence of our guide. Easy walk of about 3 hours, moderate hills, entrance included.
5. ​Doña Hermidia Farm
   Hermidia is a very friendly Costa Rican lady with a good sense of humor. She opens the doors of her property and shows how she lives of almost nothing else but what she grows herself. In her backyard you will find: plantains, yuca, papaya, pineapples,  heart of palm and others. At the end she cooks a Costa Rican dish with the things she has picked up in the garden during the tour. You can enjoy tasting the dish in her living room, a regular day at the farm!
6. ​Finca Life, coffee tour
   Learn all about coffee harvesting and its history related to the development of Monteverde and Costa Rica. This is a sustainable farm which grows organic coffee. In order to do so, they need other trees, plants and animals. And of course you will also get to enjoy a coffee tasting. Entrance included.

Arenal

Drive to La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna (which means The Great Fortune) is home not only to one of the most exciting volcanoes in Costa Rica (Arenal), but to some of the most beautiful waterfalls, hot springs and indigenous communities.

REGULAR LAKE CROSSING MONTEVERDE – ARENAL // CAR-BOAT-CAR
LODGING, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance Monteverde - Arenal: 137 km
Duration: 3 ½ hours approx.

Accommodation

Standard option: Nepenthe B&B, standard room

A boutique hotel in the mountains of Northwestern Costa Rica. Situated a half-hour from the lively town of La Fortuna they offer a private and tranquil atmosphere with spectacular views of Arenal volcano and lake Arenal.
We are pretty sure you will experience, in the serenity of Nepenthe, a respite from everyday worries and concerns.  Whether relaxing in or by the spring-fed pool, lounging in a hammock or watching the beautiful views of Arenal Lake, Arenal Volcano and the jungle and wildlife from the rocking chairs.

Superior option: Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge

Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge caters to visitors who seek a welcoming, warm and personalized vacation experience in a family style setting. This is an authentic back to nature property that allows guests to witness the diverse Costa Rican flora and fauna in its natural form. Owned and managed by the Rojas Bonilla family, the old fashioned, rustic and charming Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge is an eco-friendly Lodge with friendly service and sustainable tourism. The lodge is predominantly an ecological farm that has been devoted and has adhered to strict practices in sustainable development along with conservation policies for many years.

Arenal

We recommend you take advantage of this place as you can do many activities to explore the local flora and fauna, relax and get to know the local people.

LODGING, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Optional activities:

1. EcoTermales Hot Springs
   Whatever you choose to do in Arenal, your visit will not be complete without spending a little time resting and relaxing in some of the best eco-thermal hot springs in the world.  Lunch or dinner included.
2. La Fortuna Waterfall Hike
   Enjoy the magnificent nature an do not forget your swimming gear as you will be able to swim at the waterfall. The distance is only 3 kilometers but we do suggest that you wear comfortable shoes: the terrain is not completely flat and there are some stairs. Also, the high humidity and temperatures can make the walk harder than you would expect.
   What to bring?  sun tan lotion, mosquito spray, towel, flip flops, water.
   Please note that there are no dressing rooms or services in nature.
3. Visit Maleku Indigenous Community
   Don Alfredo is a Maleku who loves to show you the regular life of this specific indigenous community.  A the beautiful Maleku Rancho he will share his stories and traditions with you. There will also be a small ceremony and the opportunity to enjoy a typical Maleku snack. It is important to understand that all places in the surroundings, like the volcano, the waterfall and the forest are sacred places to the Maleku and so they should be treated with respect.
4. Guided walk National Park around Arenal Lake
   There are different trails that you can take. You can choose to do them all or just a few. The total length is only 5 kilometers but you should take into account the heat, humidity and the fact that some paths could be slippery. The trails are flat with moderate hills. (see picture)
5. Kayak on Lake Arenal
   Admire the beautiful scenery and views of the Arenal Volcano while kayaking on the lake.
6. Cook a typical Costa Rican dish
   Learn to cook a typical dish which you can eat yourself afterwards, so: pay attention! 

Relax at the beach

OPTION 1: SAMARA BEACH

The beautiful coastal hamlet of Samara is a paradise on the Nicoya Peninsula's western shore. Known as one of the prettiest and safest beaches in all of Costa Rica, Playa Samara radiates wonderful white sand in contrast to the aquamarine water.
Samara's laidback vibe allows for rest and relaxation, an almost universal characteristic of the Nicoya Peninsula. Its village offers a number of services: stores, restaurants, hotels, and a small selection of bars.

SHUTTLE TRANSFER TO SAMARA BEACH
LODGING AT SAMARA BEACH, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance Arenal - Samara:  188 km 

Duration: 5 hours approx.

Accommmodation

OPTION 2: PUERTO VIEJO DE TALAMANCA

Puerto Viejo gives sense to the word “crossroads”. The place where everything and everyone meets to create a culturally rich, complex and unbelievably relaxed way of life. Amazing Caribbean beaches and world cuisine, and out of this world gourmet chocolate. It’s the place where the lush tropical jungle meets the sand and Afro-Caribbean people have paired with the local Indigenous communities and European immigrants to create a wonderfully cosmopolitan Caribbean town where you can experience a deep respect for nature, peace and calm.

Cue your best Bob Marley playlist and hop on a bicycle to go around the world along the beaches of this small yet cosmopolitan paradise within paradise.

SHUTTLE TRANSFER ARENAL - PUERTO VIEJO DE TALAMANCA

LODGING AT PUERTO VIEJO BEACH, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

Distance Arenal – Puerto Viejo:  310 km 
Duration: 6 hours approx.

Accomodation

Playa Samara OR Puerto Viejo Beach

Relax at the beach!

LODGING AT SAMARA BEACH OR PUERTO VIEJO BEACH, BREAKFAST INCLUDED

San José

Today you will take the shuttle back to San José. You have the same accommodation options in San José as on day 1 of the Wild Southern itinerary.

SHUTTLE TRANSFER SAMARA OR PUERTO VIEJO – SAN JOSE 
LODGING & BREAKFAST INCLUDED 

Distance Samara – San Jose:  234 km 
Duration: 4 hours approx.

Distance Puerto Viejo – San Jose:  217 km 
Duration: 5 hours approx.

San José

Today the Wild Southern tour with optional extension comes to an end. But surely you will leave with many unforgettable experiences and happy memories.

PRIVATE TRANSFER HOTEL - AIRPORT