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17 best costa rica tours of 2024: zip lining & more.

Dive into this natural paradise on these exceptional excursions.

The 17 Best Costa Rica Tours

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While known for its vast species of wildlife, lush rainforests and gorgeous waterfalls, Costa Rica can be difficult to navigate when you're not a local due to its rough roads and dispersed attractions and activities . Opting for a guided tour may be a simpler option that yields a richer experience. To help, U.S. News compiled this list of the top tours based on traveler opinion and expert input. Whether you want to experience Costa Rica's wild side while zip lining or indulge in its famous chocolate, you'll find an excursion on this list that suits your needs.

Adventure Tours Costa Rica – Tour de la Paz

Price: From $35 per passenger to $95 per driver Duration: 3 hours

Discover Costa Rica's rainforests, waterfalls and beaches on this ATV excursion that begins and ends in Jacó . Along the way, you'll make several stops for photos and even have the chance to jump off of a waterfall. Tour-takers enjoy the knowledgeable guides and amazing scenery. They also recommend bringing plenty of water with you.

Tours operate several times each day between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Drivers must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver's license. No open-toed shoes are allowed. The company recommends bringing bug spray, sunscreen and a swimsuit. ATV Adventure Tours offers a wide variety of tours, including kayaking, rappelling and horseback riding.

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El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 4.5 hours

Sail across a nearly mile-long zip line near Manuel Antonio National Park while enjoying breathtaking views on this trip. During the tour, you'll ride 10 zip lines in total, cross hanging bridges and walk nature trails. The excursion also includes round-trip transportation from your Manuel Antonio or Quepos hotel , lunch and all safety equipment. Travelers say they feel safe during the whole trip and that the zip lines are awesome. Many add that the included lunch is tasty.

Participants must be at least 4 years old. Those who are pregnant are not allowed to go zip lining. Tours run daily at 8 and 11 a.m., and there may also be a 2 p.m. tour available in select months.

Costa Rica Waterfall Tours – The Explorer Tour

Price: From $79 Duration: 4 hours

On the Explorer Tour, you'll be driven up a mountain in a four-wheel-drive vehicle before hiking through the company's private rainforest reserve along a river, across bridges and to natural pools and waterfalls. Along the trek, there will be opportunities to swim, sit under the rushing water and jump from the top of the falls. Tours are limited to 12 people. Patrons say this tour is a must-do. They appreciate not only swimming in the waterfalls, but also the informative guides who point out local flora and fauna. Be sure to bring water, a swimsuit and shoes that can get wet.

Tours are available daily at 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. The company also offers ocean-based excursions and explorations through Costa Rica's canyons, among other options.

Desafio Adventure Co. - Rafting Class 2-3 Balsa River

Price: Adults from $80; kids from $72 Duration: 5 hours

Participants highly recommend this waterlogged adventure, praising the guides, delicious food and the scenery. This adventure begins with pick up from your accommodations to drive you to Desafio's private put-in on the Balsa River. You'll paddle for 6 miles down the river and experience mild Class II and III rapids (which are ideal for first-timers and children). After the rapids, you'll get a buffet lunch.

Trips depart daily at 10 a.m.; participants must be at least 8 years old. Also know that sturdy, secure shoes are required (no flip-flops). The company runs a myriad of adventurous outings, including rafting in stronger rapids and canyoning.

Green Vacations Costa Rica – Nature Lover Combo 1

Price: Adults from about $172; kids from $129 Duration: 9 hours

Ideal for those looking to explore the wild side of Costa Rica, this tour lets participants experience three of the top outdoor excursions in the nation. Cross 15 hanging bridges (perfect vantage points for spotting wildlife), climb up and down a waterfall, and take a hike that offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano . Reviewers recommend this tour and say they enjoy spotting wildlife. They advise bringing water shoes for the challenging stairs by the waterfall.

Tickets include pickup and drop off from La Fortuna, as well as admission fees and lunch. Tours run at 7 a.m. daily. Green Vacations Costa Rica offers many tours, including a river hike and a volcano hike.

Rainforest Chocolate Tour

Price: Adults from $30; kids from $21 Duration: 2 hours

Satisfy your sweet tooth and learn all about chocolate, including its history, its origins and the production process on the two-hour Rainforest Chocolate Tour. You'll also learn about the ceremonial chocolate drink of the Mayans and of course, enjoy a sample of organic chocolate. Chocolate lovers say they learn a lot about chocolate on this tour and enjoy tasting the various samples.

Tours, which take place in La Fortuna, are available at 8 and 10 a.m., as well as 1 and 3 p.m.; reservations are required. All ages are welcome.

Native's Way Costa Rica – Guachipelin Adventure Combo

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $100 Duration: 12 hours

Ideal for travelers who want to experience the adventurous pursuits Costa Rica is known for, including zip lining and river tubing, this tour is a hit with reviewers. Along with a variety of heart-pumping activities, the trip includes a buffet lunch, a volcanic mud bath and a dip in hot springs. Tour-takers say they feel safe and that guides are helpful. They also appreciate the stop at the hot springs as the tour's finale.

Tours depart daily at 9 a.m. If you want round-trip transportation from the company, your journey will be around 6:30 a.m. (to allot time for driving before the tour) and you'll pay extra. Native's Way Costa Rica operates a variety of other tours, including excursions to the Monte Verde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve , fishing, scuba diving and more.

WAVE Expeditions – White Water Rafting Class II and III

Price: Adults from $78; kids from about $70 Duration: 6 hours

Families will appreciate this rafting experience on the Balsa River that takes travelers through mild Class II and Class III rapids. Ideal for participants ages 8 and older, the trip takes travelers out on the water for about two hours. A break filled with fruit and swimming opportunities allows you to take a better look at the surrounding flora and fauna. After rafting, enjoy lunch at a country estate. Participants rave about their experienced guides and say the trip is perfect for novice rafters.

Tours are available daily at 10:30 a.m. In addition to whitewater rafting, WAVE Expeditions also offers river float trips and tours that combine a variety of activities, including horseback riding and hiking.

Pure Trek Canyoning – Canyoning Tour

Price: From $105 Duration: 4 hours

Rappel and rock climb in a waterfall canyon that's filled with wildlife on this thrilling tour near La Fortuna. Depending on the time of day, participants enjoy a traditional lunch either before or after their tour. Families say this tour is great for kids, that they feel safe and highly recommend the "monkey drop" portion (rappelling to the canyon floor).

Children must be at least 5 years old to participate. Round-trip transportation from La Fortuna hotels is included with your ticket. There is a morning tour at 7 a.m. and another tour at noon. This tour is also available as a private excursion. The company also offers whitewater trips combined with zip line tours, among other options.

Arenal Mundo Aventura – Big Ama

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $57 Duration: 3 hours

Fly high above La Fortuna Waterfall via zip line on this adrenaline-fueled excursion. You'll also sail along 12 zip lines leading you through canyons and whizzing over treetops. Participants say the views are amazing and that they feel very safe throughout.

Kids must be at least 3 feet, 10 inches tall and weigh 55 pounds to participate. Tours operate at 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. There is a minimum of two people required to book the tour, and transportation is included for some area locations. Arenal Mundo Aventura hosts a variety of zip lining, hiking, rappelling and bird-watching tours.

Callidryas Tours – Sloth Tour

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 3 hours

Discover sloths in their natural habitat on this walking and driving excursion. A naturalist guide will lead you on a mission to find as many sloths as possible; the company even guarantees you will see wild sloths. In addition to the tour's namesake, you could also see toucans, frogs, iguanas and monkeys. Participants rave about the number of sloths spotted on the tour and praise the guides.

Transportation and snacks are included with your ticket. Tours begin at 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily. Callidryas Tours also operates an Arenal Volcano hike, as well as a frog-watching night walk and various other hikes.

Horse Trek Monteverde – Mountain and Farm View Costa Rica Horseback Ride

Price: From $49 Duration: 2.5 hours

During this horseback ride, you'll traverse through winding, rugged paths and along the cloud forest with fantastic views and bird sightings along the way. Those who have limited experience riding horses say they feel comfortable on this ride and praise the guide's passion for horses.

Children must be at least 6 years old to participate. The maximum weight to ride is 200 pounds. You do not need previous riding experience. Rides are available in both the morning and afternoon, with pickups from Monteverde-area accommodations at 8:30 a.m. and between 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Horse Trek Monteverde offers a variety of horseback riding tours in different settings.

Costa Rica Jade Tours – Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Group Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $49 Duration: 3 hours

Discover the diverse flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio National Park, including its beaches, coral reefs and rainforest, with an in-the-know local by your side. During the trip, guides share the park's history and information about the park's inhabitants, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, toucans and more. Reviewers say guides are incredibly knowledgeable and that they see lots of wildlife on the tour.

Tickets include round-trip transportation from Quepos City. Tours, which have a maximum of 10 participants, start at 7:30 a.m. and 12:40 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. The company also operates tours all throughout the country, including Jacó, Arenal Volcano and Guanacaste , among other locales.

Don Olivo Chocolate Tour

Price: From $30 Duration: 2 hours

Explore a cacao tree farm, sample handcrafted chocolate and hot chocolate, as well as fresh fruit grown on the farm on the Don Olivo Chocolate Tour. Participants will also learn about cacao trees, plants and seeds and how they are made into chocolate. Tourgoers find the experience interesting and say there is a lot more to see, learn and sample on the tour than just chocolate.

Tours are available daily at 8 and 10 a.m. as well as 1 and 3 p.m.; participants should reserve their spots in advance by contacting the company online.

Sunset Sails Tours

Price: From $95 Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

Sail along the Manuel Antonio coast on this cruise past area islands and Manuel Antonio National Park, spotting dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays and (possibly) whales along the way. You'll also have the opportunity to snorkel and enjoy a gourmet meal on board. Throughout the trip, guides share information about marine life. Reviewers say that the crew is personable, the boat clean and comfortable, and the food excellent.

Tours start at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets include transportation from hotels in Quepos and Manuel Antonio, snorkeling gear, a meal and snacks.

Lazy Lizard Sailing – Tropical Sunset Tour

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $70 Duration: 4 hours

Sail along the Costa Rican coast from the Guanacaste province aboard a catamaran with a stop for water activities like snorkeling, kayaking or swimming in a secluded inlet on this cruise. Afterward, enjoy a picnic-style lunch and beautiful views of the sunset. Reviewers say the food served on board the cruise is delicious, and describe the sunset as stunning.

Tours are available at 2 p.m. daily; the company also offers private catamaran tours.

Bahia Aventuras – Hiking Corcovado National Park Day Tour

Price: Adults from $150; kids from $95 Duration: 8 hours

Travelers can explore the vast biodiversity of Corcovado National Park on this tour, which features a guided nature hike about two hours long. The adventure also includes a picnic lunch at San Josecito Beach. After lunch, tourgoers will take another, albeit shorter, hike. Tours depart from Punta Uvita beach and you'll get to Corcovado National Park via boat (you could spot dolphins, whales and turtles). Participants applaud the tour for the knowledgeable guides and variety of wildlife on view. They also recommend motion sickness medication for the boat ride.

Tickets include entrance fees to the park. The tour is not recommended for children younger than 4 and people who are pregnant. Tours start at 7:30 a.m. and require a minimum of six people to embark. Bahia Aventuras offers a range of tours, including whale watching, snorkeling and sport fishing.

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Costa Rica Tours & Vacations

Travellers walking with tour guide in the jungle near Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica

Biodiverse, brilliantly colorful and naturally breathtaking, Costa Rica embraces a slower pace of life.

An adventure hotspot for some, a cultural haven for others and a tropical paradise for most, Costa Rica definitely lives up to its translation as the ‘rich coast.’ And as you journey under lush jungle canopies and through laidback surf towns, you’ll soon be rich with memorable experiences. Lean into the slower pace of life as you become a pro at spotting toucans in Monteverde’s steamy cloud forests or listening out for the distant whoop of white-faced capuchins in Manuel Antonio. The phrase ‘hustle and bustle’ isn’t in Costa Rica’s vocabulary, as you’d expect from a country whose unofficial motto is ‘ pura vida ’ – the pure life.

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Costa Rica at a glance

Capital city.

San Jose (population approximately 340,000)

Approximately 5.1 million

(GMT-06:00) Central America

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Costa Rica

Culture and customs.

Costa Rican culture can be summed up in two words: 'pura vida', or the pure life. It's a greeting, farewell and a way to show appreciation. Like any good life motto, pura vida is better experienced than explained. It means being friendly and polite, taking it easy and being thankful for what you have. Costa Ricans' carefree way of life, coupled with living in one of Central America's most progressive and prosperous nations, makes the locals some of the happiest in the world.

You'll find that people in Costa Rica are generally in less of a hurry than most North Americans or Europeans. Following what is affectionately known as 'Tico time', people will often be fashionably late, except for things with schedules – Tico time does not apply at work, the movies or the train station.

Costa Ricans (or Ticos and Ticas) are known for their conflict-averse nature. Peace is so highly valued here that their army was abolished in 1949, with all funds reallocated to create an 'army' of teachers instead.

History and government

Ancient history.

Like most Central American countries, indigenous communities thrived for thousands of years as hunter-gatherers, and it's believed that humans have lived in Costa Rica's jungles and rainforests for as many as 10,000 years. However, with no urbanized civilization like the Aztecs or Mayas, and little to no cultural preservation during the time of Spanish colonization, not much is known about Costa Rica's true indigenous populations.

Colonization, independence, and trade

At the time of Spanish colonization, it was estimated that 400,000 people lived in what is now known as Costa Rica. Christopher Columbus arrived in the region in 1502 on his fourth voyage, leading to the settlement of the first Spanish colony in Costa Rica.

As settlements grew, indigenous populations dwindled due to disease and forced labor. After around a century, the population had fallen to 20,000, and a century later, down to 8000.

In 1821, the Americas broke free of Spanish control following the Mexican War of Independence. Costa Rica became part of the Federal Republic of Central America in 1823 before gaining complete independence in 1838

Costa Rica eventually found its feet in the global coffee trade, and by the end of the century, coffee crops accounted for nearly 90% of Costa Rica's exports and 80% of its foreign income. Not only was coffee production an indicator of wealth in Costa Rica, it was also a powerful political tool prompting the emergence of other industries, including the banana trade, which surpassed coffee exports in the early 20th century.

Costa Rica's economy relies on eco-tourism, and the country has championed the idea that the 'rich coast' refers not to resources dug from the ground but to the natural wonders above ground. The easygoing attitude of Ticos comes from a love of their country and pride that their democracy has endured in a conflict-ridden region.

Eating and drinking

Costa Rican cuisine is wholesome and fresh, with influence from Spanish , South American , and Caribbean culinary traditions. On the Caribbean coast, you'll find dishes with Afro-Caribbean flair, usually featuring more meats, spices and coconut milk.

Capital city, San Jose, not only has an up-and-coming food scene but has established itself as the craft beer hub of Costa Rica. Enjoy seasonal samplings on a San Jose Bites and Sites tour with Urban Adventures

Look out for these favorite dishes and drinks across Costa Rica:

What to eat in Costa Rica

Gallo pinto Gallo pinto, the most common side dish in Costa Rica and across the Americas is served alongside meals morning, noon and night. It’s made of rice, beans, onions, peppers and spices, and the name translates to ‘speckled rooster’ because of the pops of color in the rice.
Casado If you eat at a ‘soda’ or a traditional Costa Rican restaurant, when traveling, chances are a casado will be on the menu. Although there are multiple variations of this tasting plate, you’ll likely get served up some gallo pinto, fried plantains and salad with either chicken, beef or fish, and freshly squeezed juice, covering all your food groups in one.
Chifrijo Chifrijo is a common bar snack in Costa Rica. The word is a combination of its two main ingredients – chicharrones (fried pork rinds) and frijoles (beans). The chicharrones and beans are layered together and topped with guacamole and pico de gallo and served with fresh tortilla or plantain chips for dipping.
Ceviche While ceviche is probably more often associated with Peru, the Tico version is a delicious variation. Made with raw fish cured in citrus juice, onions, coriander and peppers and served with tortilla chips or fried plantains, this dish is light, refreshing and a great start to a meal.
Patacones Patacones are deep-fried green plantains that are ideal for a snack or as a dipping device for chifrijo, guacamole or pico de gallo.
Sopa negra Sopa negra is a Costa Rican black bean soup, often flavoured with tomatoes and spices and served with egg and coriander.
Rondon Rondon is a seafood chowder that comes from Jamaica. Other Caribbean countries who’ve adopted the recipe have put their own spin on it with their choice of seafood – fish, crab, small lobster – as well as the coconut milk broth and spices.
Arroz con leche Sweet tooths can rejoice with this Central and South American dessert staple of arroz con leche – a spiced, sweet rice pudding made with cinnamon, cloves and raisins. Try it as a warming snack or a special dessert.
Pejibayes This unusual fruit comes from a type of palm known as the peach palm – the same tree that heart of palm comes from. After boiling for a few hours and discarding the inner seed and outer skin, the fruit is finished with a squeeze of lime or a dollop of mayonnaise to eat the local way. The taste has been likened to a mix between a squash, potato and cashew.

What to drink in Costa Rica

Coffee Costa Rica produces some of the best coffee in the world, so you’re set for your caffeine fix during your time in Costa Rica. It has both the ideal soil composition and the perfect elevation to grow the perfect coffee crop, so be sure to sample as many fresh local brews as you can.
Alcohol If you’re looking for drinks of the alcoholic variety, try guaro – a liquor made from sugar cane, best enjoyed in a guaro sour (with lime, simple syrup and soda). The craft beer scene is growing quickly here as well, so look for microbrews from a multitude of small local breweries. And if you’re wondering how to say cheers, just say ‘pura vida’ again!
Naturales Naturales – sometimes also called refrescos or batidos – are delicious fresh fruit juices blended with either milk or water. You can find them all over the country at small kiosks or booths in a variety of flavors like mango, pineapple and guanabana.

Geography and environment

Costa Rica is known for its incredible beaches and magical rainforests. But the backbone of this coastal nation is truly stunning mountain ranges, many of which contain both active and dormant volcanoes. You’ll also find heaps of waterfalls, lakes and rivers throughout the country. For this reason, adventure sports such as zip-lining, whitewater rafting and cycling are popular in inland destinations such as La Fortuna and Montverde, and adventure-packed activities are a popular way to experience the country.

Get active on an 8 day Costa Rica: Hike, Bike & Raft trip

Costa Rica’s diverse topography is home to many microclimates, and the temperature and weather can vary dramatically depending on elevation and how close you are to the coast. Rainforests, cloud forests, jungles and mountains exist side by side. The varied land and climate foster over 5% of the world’s total biodiversity.

Witness ecological diversity firsthand on a 10 day Best of Costa Rica trip Costa Rica is home to over 500,000 species of plants and animals. Those seeking to spot local wildlife will be enthralled by Costa Rica’s unique flora and fauna. And the spectacular variety of wildlife isn’t limited to the land – scuba diving is another popular activity, with Costa Rica boasting some of the most beautiful bays, beaches and reefs in the world.

Four of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica

Tortuguero National Park One of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets, this national park is the unspoiled paradise you’ve been searching for. Take a dip in Tortuguero’s warm turquoise waters or just relax on the idyllic shores
Manuel Antonio A true eco-playground, you can spend a day exploring misty rainforests and searching for sloths and monkeys before cooling off on one of the delightful beaches. Head into Quepos town for some good food and fiery nightlife after the sun sets.
Jaco Once a sleepy beach town, Jaco’s proximity to San Jose has made it a one-stop shop for those seeking big waves and even bigger parties. The gateway to national parks and active adventures , there’s no denying Jaco’s uber-cool surf-town vibe.
Corcovado Well off the tourist trail, Corcovado isn’t your average beach experience. Boasting a diversity of colors, landscapes and wildlife, Corcovado is perfect for those seeking beaches with character and charm. Oh, and it’s got the largest primary forest in the American Pacific, if you needed another reason to visit.

Whether you’re buying souvenirs or groceries, your best bet in Costa Rica is to shop at local markets. Head to the Mercado Calle Nacional de Artesania y Pintura (National Craft Market) in San Jose for the best selection of handmade goods and souvenirs. Here you can stroll through dozens of stalls selling handmade hammocks and painted oxcarts as well as t-shirts and shot glasses that say ‘pura vida’. San Jose's Mercado Central is also a great place to grocery shop and pick up souvenirs, and vendors offer everything from fresh produce to coffee to leather goods.

You’ll often see carved wooden masks for sale but, while all of them are beautiful, for a truly authentic mask, you should aim to buy directly from indigenous communities who make them.

As in any destination, check that any souvenirs made from natural materials have been ethically sourced. Avoid buying products made from rainforest woods that were not sustainably harvested, sea turtle shells and other animal products. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, for example, have strict quarantine laws regarding some materials, such as food and wooden objects.

Festivals and events

Costa Ricans definitely know how to throw a party, and place a lot of importance on food, family and community. Many Costa Rican festivals celebrate the country’s farming and ranch heritage, and a lot have a Catholic element. No matter which festival you’re celebrating, you’re pretty much guaranteed a deep dive into Tico culture. Here are a few of the biggest festivals in Costa Rica:

Las Fiestas de Zapote

This festival, celebrated from Christmas until New Year’s Eve every year in the town of Zapote, is a week-long fiesta. It’s home to the biggest rodeo in Costa Rica, many carnival games, as well as rides and food stalls.

Palmares Fiestas

After the festivities of Christmas, New Year’s and the Zapote festival have wound down, it’s time for the Palmares festival. In mid-January, more than one million Ticos and tourists head to the town of Palmares for one of the largest festivals in Costa Rica. Revelers drink beer, enjoy food, listen to international acts and watch traditional bullfighting and the ‘tope’ – a horse parade through the streets.

Fiesta de los Diablitos

The ‘Festival of the Little Devils’ is celebrated twice each year (in December and February) in the indigenous communities of Boruca and Rey Curre. The festival celebrates the triumph of the original inhabitants over the Spanish conquistadors, with dancing and performances featuring costumes and painted masks.

Limon Carnival

If you’re traveling to Costa Rica in October, you’ll probably find yourself in the festive spirit as you touch down, as this is the month of Carnival. Notably, it’s when the Caribbean town of Puerto Limon celebrates this annual festival, with elaborate costumes, floats, parades and food stalls aplenty, spread across two weekends.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Juan Santamaria Day

Guanacaste Day

Our Lady of Los Angeles Feast Day

Independence Day

Natural Cultures Day

Please note: Costa Rica's public holidays may vary.

Costa Rica travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

Year-round tropical warmth means there really isn’t a bad time to visit Costa Rica. December to April are normally the driest months; however, Costa Rica’s diverse topography and blanket of rainforests suggest that you should be prepared for at least some rain any time of the year – a very small price to pay for such lush surroundings.

The good news is that even during the rainiest of seasons, the rainfall tends to be limited to a couple of hours a day – just enough time for you to enjoy a cup of Costa Rica's acclaimed coffee in one of its many cafes.

The most popular time to visit Costa Rica is between December and March – the driest and hottest months along the Pacific Coast. May to October brings the most rainfall across the country, but this is dependent on the region, as the wetter seasons are extended on the Osa Peninsula and northern sections of the Caribbean Coast.

Do you need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?

Generally, Costa Rica grants visas to most countries’ passport holders for a period of 90 days, providing travelers have a valid passport, a return or onward ticket and their trip is for leisure. Some countries’ citizens must apply for a visa before leaving their home country, but most do not.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information. This is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 14/12/2023

Is tipping customary in Costa Rica?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Costa Rica, rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is standard practice. Many restaurants do add a service charge to the final bill which is usually a 10% gratuity; however, 500 colones (or around USD 1) of local currency is an appropriate extra amount.

What is the internet access like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica's cities and tourist centers have wi-fi and internet access available in hotel lobbies and internet cafes. Internet access is less available in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Costa Rica?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Costa Rica's cities and metropolitan areas, although expect limited coverage in remote or mountainous areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone while in Costa Rica, but, be sure to check with your service provider first to find out about any fees you may incur, as sometimes this can be expensive.

Costa Rica has one state-owned phone provider – Kolbi – as well as a selection of private companies, should you wish to purchase a SIM while abroad. Depending on what connection and coverage you need during your stay in Costa Rica, a prepaid option with one of these providers may be the cheapest way to go.

What are the toilets like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica's toilets are a mixture of flushable and squat toilets, so be prepared to encounter both. Carry your own supply of toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as these aren't always provided.

Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?

Although tap water is considered safe to drink in Costa Rica's cities, it's probably a good idea to avoid drinking tap water in Costa Rica. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying small bottles of water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found as some hotels provide this, so you’re able to use a reusable bottle. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Costa Rica?

Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops, hotels, and restaurants, although smaller vendors and market stalls often only accept cash, so be sure to have a combination of both when traveling.

What is ATM access like in Costa Rica?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and airports, although are less common in rural and remote areas. When traveling out of the city, come prepared by having enough cash, as ATMs aren't always an option.

Is Costa Rica safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Generally speaking, Costa Rica is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Same-sex relationships are legal and, in 2015 Costa Rica became the first country in Central America to recognize gay relationships; however, recognition of same-sex marriage is currently pending government approval. In many places in Costa Rica, public displays of affection might attract unwanted attention, but there are a few places in Costa Rica with a thriving LBGTQI scene. Quepos has long been known as the LGBTQIA+ capital of Costa Rica, and the actual capital, San Jose, has a good number of gay bars and clubs.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica?

Being in the deep center of Central America, Costa Rica gets hot and oh so humid. However, there’s a whole number of microclimates inside its borders – that’s a fancy way of saying that the terrain is pretty hilly – so depending where you are in the country, the temperature may fluctuate. Generally speaking, Costa Rica enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures averaging at 64°F minimum and 81°F maximum.

Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast has tropical heat almost all year round. March is the driest and hottest month, and May to October brings the wet season to the region. The Western Central Valley, including cities like San Jose, indirectly follow the Pacific Coast’s weather trends.

The Caribbean Coast has pretty steady rainfall all year round with no distinct dry season. September to October and February to March are considered the best months to travel to this side of the country as they are drier than most, but still experience rainfall. The Eastern Central Valley usually follows a similar weather pattern.

Is Costa Rica accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Much of Costa Rica’s travel highlights are based around the coast and in nature, so depending on travelers’ level of mobility, this may present obstacles. Many national parks are difficult to visit for travelers using a wheelchair, as jungle paths are mostly remote and not stable. Manuel Antonio does have wider paths and more accessible routes to venture into the rainforest, and the wide boardwalks and beaches are wheelchair friendly. The capital, San Jose, is a bit tricky to get around, with rough sidewalks and a lack of ramps. There are, however, taxi companies in the capital that offer wheelchair-accessible vans.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to pack for a trip to Costa Rica

Packing for a trip to Costa Rica doesn't have to be difficult as long as you take into account the weather conditions you're likely to experience while you're over there. This means packing lightweight, comfortable clothing, walking shoes for exploring, appropriate sun protection items like sunscreen and hats, and a backpack so you can carry your camera and a reusable drink bottle.

What language is spoken in Costa Rica?

Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, however, there are five indigenous languages that are still spoken throughout the country, as well as a mixture of English, Portuguese, German, and French spoken by a percentage of the population.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to: Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to: Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to: US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Costa Rica Tours, Adventures & Vacations

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Manuel Antonio National Park : This is the quintessential Costa Rica natural paradise where the beach seamlessly meets the rainforest, offering encounters with boisterous monkeys, adorable sloths, and exotic tropical birds.
Arenal Volcano National Park : Located to the north of San Jose, Arenal Volcano presents a tropical paradise complete with soothing hot springs, dense rainforests, and the awe-inspiring presence of Volcan Arenal, a towering, billowing giant that defines the region.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve : As one of Costa Rica's original eco-tourism hotspots, Monteverde Cloudforest offers enchanting cloud forest walks, exhilarating canopy ziplines, immersive visits to local farms, and the chance to stay in ecologically friendly lodges.
Corcovado National Park: Often referred to as "the most biologically intense place on Earth," Corcovado is a remote and pristine park where you can find diverse wildlife, including jaguars and tapirs.
Tortuguero National Park : Nestled on Costa Rica's lesser-visited Caribbean coast, Tortuguero, meaning "sea turtle breeding spot" in Spanish, provides a unique opportunity to witness green turtles in their natural environment.
Palo Verde National Park: This park is popular among birdwatchers, especially during the dry season when migratory birds congregate in large numbers.
Irazu Volcano National Park : Its proximity to San Jose makes it a popular destination for those seeking a glimpse of an active volcano and its crater lakes.
Poas Volcano National Park: Another accessible volcano park near San Jose, Poas is known for its active crater and stunning vistas.

10 Best Costa Rica Activities for Nature Lovers

Best time to travel to costa rica.

Whitewater Rafting
Hiking & Trekking
Zip Lining - Canopy Climbing
Sea Kayaking
Rainforest Wildlife Viewing & Adventures
Dry Season (December to April): Also referred to as the "high season" for tourism, extends from December to April. During this period, most of the country experiences lower rainfall and clear skies, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the nation's national parks and pristine beaches. The Central Valley and Pacific coast regions offer pleasant, sunny weather during these months. If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica for activities like hiking, birdwatching, or beach relaxation, this is the prime time to visit.
Green Season (May to November): During Costa Rica’s wet season or “ green season ”, the country receives higher rainfall, especially on the Caribbean coast and in the northern regions. While the weather can be unpredictable, the lush green landscapes and lower number of tourists can make this a rewarding time to visit. It's important to note that some remote areas may be less accessible during heavy rains. If you want to experience the rainforests at their lushest and take advantage of lower accommodation prices, the wet season could be a suitable choice.

Costa Rica Travel Overview

Costa rica family vacations.

Hummingbirds: Marvel at dozens of hummingbird species, each with a unique iridescent plumage and behavior. Keep an eye out for them in lush rainforests and gardens throughout the country.
Resplendent Quetzal: This magnificent bird, known for its vibrant green and red plumage, calls the cloud forests of Monteverde and other highland regions home.
Rufous Motmot: Found in the dense undergrowth of rainforests and along riverbanks, the Rufous Motmot is known for its distinctive racket-shaped tail and vibrant plumage.
Kingfishers: Keep an eye on riverbanks and mangroves, especially in the Pacific and Caribbean coastal regions, for a chance to spot various kingfisher species.
Toucans & Aracaris: These iconic birds with large, colorful bills are often seen in the canopy of tropical rainforests, particularly in Tortuguero and Corcovado National Parks.
White-collared Manakin: Look for this striking bird in lowland rainforests, where males perform elaborate courtship dances to impress potential mates.
La Fortuna: Located near the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is famous for its hot springs, lush rainforests, and outdoor adventures like hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife watching.
Santa Teresa: A laid-back beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is known for its excellent surfing conditions, stunning sunsets, and vibrant local scene.
Nicoya Peninsula: This beautiful peninsula is a haven for nature lovers, offering pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring charming coastal towns.
Playa Conchal: Known for its unique crushed-shell beach, this is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Lake Arenal: Costa Rica's largest lake, Lake Arenal, offers water activities such as windsurfing and boat tours with the Arenal Volcano as a stunning backdrop.
Playa Samara: A tranquil beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Samara is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.

Costa Rica Travel FAQs

Learn Some Spanish: While many Costa Ricans speak English, learning some basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and interactions. Spanish is the official language, and using polite greetings like "hola" (hello) and "gracias" (thank you) can go a long way in fostering positive connections with locals.
Pack Accordingly: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and don't forget insect repellent and sunscreen. The tropical climate can vary, so it's wise to have layers for different elevations and activities.
Currency and Payments: Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Carry some cash, but credit cards are commonly used. However, smaller establishments may prefer cash, so having some colones on hand is advisable.
Respect Nature: Help preserve Costa Rica's natural beauty by following eco-friendly practices like recycling and avoiding single-use plastics. Costa Rica is a leader in sustainable tourism, and respecting the environment is a shared responsibility.
Local Cuisine: Don't miss out on trying traditional dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a typical lunch), and tropical fruits. Costa Rican cuisine reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and is a delightful culinary experience.
Explore National Parks: Visit Costa Rica's incredible national parks and reserves to experience the country's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Enjoy "Pura Vida": Embrace the "pura vida" lifestyle, which translates to pure life and represents a laid-back, positive attitude. It's a way of life in Costa Rica and embodies the friendly and welcoming spirit of the people.
Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals in the wild and never feed them. Wildlife encounters are best enjoyed from a distance. This not only ensures your safety but also protects the animals and their natural behaviors.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Costa Rica, with 10% being a common practice in restaurants. In addition to restaurants, it's also customary to tip tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff for exceptional service.

Costa Rica Travel Videos

Costa Rica Travel Reviews & Stories

Exploring costa rica with our family, pura vida travels, top costa rica travel destinations.

Central America & Mexico
Manuel Antonio
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Osa Peninsula - Golfo Dulce
Pacuare River
Puerto Viejo

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Costa Rica Natural Paradise Customer Reviews

"Simply the best driving skill that I have ever seen from someone driving a vehicle as large as our coach. Just an all-around excellent driver and he deserves the highest praise...the hotels were clean and pleasant, a couple quite beautiful. Overall as a group they deserve an ‘A’ rating. Sightseeing was pleasingly fresh for me. This was something different which is what I was looking for from this trip. It was a learning experience as well as entertaining." Mr. L.S., Adrian, Michigan

"You have put together an outstanding package at a very reasonable price. Costa Rica is a great vacation destination!" Mr. & Mrs. M.M., Laguna Niguel, California

"This is an amazing tour especially for the price. I did not expect luxury hotels on this trip! Everyone in our group was constantly commenting on how Caravan could make any money off of this based on the amazing hotels, guides, local tours, meals. The best possible introduction to Costa Rica at an amazing price. I have traveled the world both independently and with groups for over 40 years; ours was the best director I’ve ever traveled with." Ms. M.D., San Diego, California

"As a travel agent, I would recommend clients to Costa Rica with Caravan. This was an excellent tour, especially since everything was included. We saw and did a great deal in a short period of time." Mr. & Mrs. B.S., Rochester, New York

"This was our 5th trip with Caravan and counting. Once again, the hotels chosen by Caravan were wonderful, each one with its specialty. Caravan has a knack for choosing sights and activities. Something for everyone. Have many times told others about your company." Mr. & Mrs. R.C., Greenville, Rhode Island

"Caravan tours are not only an amazing value, they are an incredible trip. All tours, parks, etc. were included and made for a carefree vacation. The hotels, the meals, the coach, the tour guide and driver, and the activities that are included are wonderful. We had several single travelers that felt very much included and we all ended up saying ‘goodbye’ as one big group of many members of a special family for a week. I belong to a few travel groups, and I live in a large travel community - I’m already spreading the word about Caravan." Ms. K.G., Santa Maria, California

"We had a very good experience in Costa Rica. Excellent hotels, very neat and clean, convenient locations. Very good service provided. Excellent hotels, motorcoach, sightseeing, activities, all three meals, what else would any tourist want? We will recommend to all our friends and family." Mr. D.P., Paramus, New Jersey

"I want to thank Caravan and especially our tour director for sharing Costa Rica with us. Everyone was so happy and helpful and full of life. I had a wonderful time and would definitely recommend this company to family and friends. Caravan is truly blessed to have a great team representing the company and the country and its people. The memories will last a lifetime. Pura Vida!" Mrs. M.P., Mechanicsville, Virginia

"Really nice plants, flowers, meals were nice, nutritious, fruits, very healthy and plenty to eat. I like Caravan very much. Hotels were wonderful, natural beauty. Enjoyed seeing the natural settings and wild animals. Very insightful and educational. Director was fantastic, very energized and took excellent care of us. She is very inspiring. I very much enjoyed being on a guided tour more than being on my own. You see a lot more with a group, nice people on the coach. We would not have had so much fun if we went alone. We saw more at a great price. Caravan is top-notch." Mr. & Mrs. C.S., Aurora Illinois

"It was a terrific trip. We met some nice people and shared some of our stories. Most of the guests wondered how Caravan can keep the cost of the tour as low as it is. The hotels were better than I have experienced. The meals were freshly made and consistently good and agreed with me. I wish I ate this well all the time! There was great variety in the elevations and climate on the trip, plenty of rest stops. Our director was a very talented woman. She somehow quickly knew all our names. She likes presenting her country to the outside world. Costa Rica can be very proud of her." Mr. & Mrs. R.M., Feura Bush, New York

"This was my first vacation in over 40 years! Yes, what have I been waiting for? I’m so glad my friend asked me to go on the tour. Wonderful experience for me. I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the places utilized. Absolutely fabulous director and driver. What remarkable, wonderful people. We all sang their praises many times." Ms. S.C.B., Moorestown New Jersey

"This was our fifth Caravan tour and it did not disappoint. What we particularly like about Caravan is that we always seem to have a variety of hotels. Some are five star, some are more rustic and others are more unique. We could not complain, a good variety, there seemed to be something for everyone." Mrs. K.D., Conshohocken, Pennsylvania

"This was our first Caravan tour and we were very pleased at all aspects of the experience. We never doubted that things would be first class. Rooms were comfortable, food was good at every stop. The educational value of the stops was impressive. I think a great deal of our satisfaction was due to our director. We had an outstanding tour director, the good humor, graciousness and unfailing patience was evident from our first group meeting to the very minute of departure. She was able to gauge the tenor of our group and the spirit she seemed to sense amongst us. As they say in sports, there was great chemistry and understanding what was needed to make for a successful experience. The feeling among the travelers was unanimous that this success owed a great deal to the professional attitude, skill and friendship of Costa Rica. Pura Vida!" Mr. D.R., Annandale, Virginia

"Caravan Tours, well done! It was spectacular. And by the time I left I had a wonderful sense of the country of Costa Rica. We saw so much wildlife and beauty, and our director was an expert of wildlife and history of Costa Rica, a beautiful country. We have been on many other tours and this was the best trip we have ever taken. Every detail from the moment we arrived until we were taken back to the airport was very well planned. I give Caravan an A+. We will see you all again on another adventure, thank you so much!" Mr. & Mrs. R.H., Bothell, Washington

"The best vacation I’ve ever been on, by a longshot! Wonderful! Our tour guide and driver made every effort to make our experience exceptional. Beautiful, comfortable safe hotels. Wonderful selections, real gems. I look forward to my next Caravan trip. Not sure if anyone catch match our director and driver combo in Costa Rica, but I am hopeful! Everyone, from the man who met us at the airport to the return at the end, was so kind!" Ms. L.G., Oak Park, Illinois

"We’ve been on four Caravan tours. We think that overall, this one ranks right on top. We loved the variety! Wildlife rescue center, river cruises, quaint towns, luxurious resorts and spas, rainforests - all of it made this a magical tour. Perfectly timed stops, nice shopping opportunities, unique photo opps, terrific! Magnificent accommodations and locations. Each hotel was great. I am a travel agent and brought a group, and on the first day, one of my clients exclaimed ‘I’m so impressed already!’ It was so nice to stay at such quality hotels. Looking forward to future Central American tours. Food was plentiful and tasty. Every activity was enjoyed by all. We loved all the wildlife we got to see, and I cannot find enough superlatives to describe our TD. She set the tone for us to be positive and on time. We all fell in love with our conscientious, knowledgeable and extremely personable tour director. She made our group feel like family." Mr. & Mrs. D.B., The Villages, Florida

"Wow! I’d go on this same trip again. My daughter and I talk about it all the time when we call each other. We tried so many new foods, everything was so tasty and delicious. I could live like that everyday. We didn’t want to leave. The hot springs, we loved ‘em. The river cruises were fun and gave us a different view. It was a highlight to see the story of coffee in real life. Interesting to see the oxcarts and I appreciate seeing the old ways. You are so lucky to have your director. She got to know all of us as friends, had great history to share, and stories about Costa Rica. Thank you for a really wonderful trip." Ms. L.H., Emerald Hills, California

"Excellent value. Hiking, boat trips, city tours...all provided a broad view of Costa Rica. My favorite was the hanging bridges. The two night stays made the tour much less stressful and more enjoyable. Our director was a rare jewel. She was available 24/7 and made the tour so much fun. Really enjoyed the tour and loved our excellent driver. It was amazing how he navigated the coach on the mountain roads. Day by day booklet was very helpful and I will highly recommend." Ms. M.H., Greenfield, Wisconsin

"A GREAT trip!! We were a group of 12 people and all of us enjoyed ourselves greatly. All of the sightseeing and activities were outstanding! I enjoyed the boat tour the best. The rainforest walk was just perfect. I was a New York City taxi and bus driver and our tour coach driver was outstanding! The coach was like an extension of his legs." Mr. M.C., Virginia Beach, VA

"This was our first tour and we were very impressed with Caravan Tours. The Cano Negro cruise was amazing. We were very lucky to experience many wild and varied sightings. We had good spotters onboard. Simply amazing and very flavorful food on the rest stops. We learned more than we ever would have on our own. Good spacing on stops and resting. Would definitely go on another tour. Keep up the good work!" Mr. & Mrs. R.H., Rockford, Illinois

"All in all, we had a fabulous trip. I will definitely use Caravan again after this tour. I like the fact that Caravan specializes in 8-10 day tours and you nailed it. If the next tour is anything like this one, I’m doing all the Caravan Tours. I loved the sightseeing and activities, not too much, not too little. It’s amazing seeing the country and spotting sloths and monkeys in the wild. It was enough and I slept like a baby. Thank you for a wonderful experience w/a terrific tour guide that taught us so much about Costa Rica. I also like the fact that she shared info about her family and considered our group as family. Awesome." Mrs. T.N., Bonaire, Georgia

"I highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants to learn about Costa Rica. The fact that so many people on the tour had been on a Caravan Tour before, some being on their 5th trip, speaks very highly of the company. I was very impressed with the schedule. Every activity was interesting and fun, well planned for the most part. The two river cruises were fantastic. Our driver was absolutely the best, doing some amazing driving on the roads. The coach was comfortable and problem-free." Ms. S.M., Charlottesville, Virginia

"This trip could not have gone any better. We will travel with Caravan again. Good variety and not too much pressure to join if you didn’t want to. Loved the wildlife and bird tours, of course. All the hotels were very nice and comfortable. We will highly recommend this tour and look into other Caravan offerings. Excellent!" Mr. & Mrs. J.E., Newbury Park, California

"Excellent. I feel like I really had a great overview of the country. There was a great mix of activity, downtime, and shopping. Wonderful food, so many choices at each buffet, always replenished, and dining rooms and staff were clean and friendly. The sunset cocktails and dancers made everyone feel special. I left the country loving the people and will be more conscious of the environment and ocean." Ms. L.S., Tarpon Springs, Florida

"Awesome! Great value! Hotels were better than expected. So much fresh fruit, coffee everywhere! Our sightseeing was super. Got to see many different areas/aspects. Again, a great value. Enjoyed them all. Our director was awesome, knowledgeable, interesting, helpful, available all the time. Couldn’t be better unless he did massages for free in the evening. I recommend for people to get a taste of Costa Rica. I highly recommend this trip. I loved it! So well planned, fun people, nice hotels, overall a great experience!" Ms. K.S., Chattanooga, Tennessee

"Overall, this was a fantastic tour. I feel it provided an excellent taste of Costa Rica. Our director and driver were excellent in their jobs. Our TD was a tremendous director. I felt very confident in her ability to lead and be responsible for such a large group with all types of expectations. She was positive and vivacious from the moment we arrived until the last wave goodbye. The tour was as well paced as possible considering the miles we covered. The value was tremendous which attracted me to Caravan. We had quality hotels, all meals provided with tips along the way, transfers to and from the airport, all attractions, excellent service from Caravan as well as hotel and dining staff and even bottled water all along the way. Thank you for a wonderful tour at such a great value!" Ms. C.B., Fort Worth, Texas

"This was an amazing trip filled with great visits to Costa Rica. It is a great value for the price. Our tour guide was fantastic and Caravan is a very organized company. The sightseeing was a wonderful variety and a great way to see so much of Costa Rica. It was an amazing trip and we saw so much of this unique country. Our director was totally amazing and the transportation was great, the coach was very nice and comfortable. I would recommend this to other travelers." Mr. & Mrs. J.C., Notasulga, Alabama

"Fantastic. We saw everything! Felt like we saw the entire country. Loved all the hotels. Our director was absolutely the best director anyone could have possibly hoped for. So positive, so caring and a plethora of knowledge. The interaction between her and our driver was phenomenal. They made the trip fascinating and a real joy to be with them." Mr. M.S., Buford, Georgia

"I would highly recommend Caravan Tours and already have. I saw so many wonderful places, animals, things. Very happy with all the sights and activities. We had the most amazing tour director. She explained Costa Rica, provinces, culture, history, and products of export. She shared her love of country. I absolutely loved all of the hotels that I stayed in. They were all beautiful and the service was so efficient and staff were all so friendly. The meals were amazing and so plentiful. Thank you so much for the over the top value of the hotels, food, tours, and guides. I was extremely happy to have such a fantastic vacation." Ms. T.S., The Villages, Florida

"I am thinking and thinking...but I cannot think of one aspect of the entire trip that would not warrant a seal of excellence. A great variety of highlights that constitute Costa Rica. The timing of each was great, did not feel rushed. They provided an insight into a place that was previously unknown to us and we left feeling that we now know Costa Rica. All of the hotels were very, very nice and the staff at each were welcoming and accommodating. We enjoyed this tour very much and would like to state how impressed we were with our director. An asset to your company and one of the nicest people I have ever met. She made us all a bit more appreciative of our lives. Pura Vida!" Mr. & Mrs. P.R., Sterling, Massachusetts

"My three friends and I wanted to go on a ‘girlfriends’ trip' and I had us on another company’s tour whom I was familiar with. However, a couple months after I booked, I was notified it wasn’t a go, and had to scramble to find another tour around the same dates. Caravan fit our needs perfectly, not only having a tour the same dates, but it offered a BETTER itinerary to more places and was priced lower too! We were all extremely satisfied with Caravan and our wonderful tour of Costa Rica with the absolute best director. She made it really special and fun. We had a wonderful mix of sightseeing to enjoy the many scenic areas of the country. Best of all were the animals and birdlife we saw at Zooave and Cano Negro, fantastic places!" Ms. M.T., Rancho Santa Margarita, California

"Enlightening. We will be talking about this trip for a long time and will enjoy our memories. We enjoyed it all, the wildlife refuge, the two river cruises, bridges and of course the hot springs. My husband and I both enjoyed the coffee tour and the butterflies. The places we stopped to stretch legs, shop, snack on ice cream were a pleasant and nice break from the coach. We did not have a bad meal anywhere. A great vacation and I feel I know Costa Rica so much better now." Mr. & Mrs. J.D., West Chazy, New York

"Natural paradise indeed! Wonderful places and activities, memorable experiences - way better than we could have planned ourselves. I totally enjoyed the tour. Our director was very well-organized and we learned so much from the info she provided. Many thanks to her and our great driver, and the awesome itinerary, Pura Vida!!!" Ms. R.S., Fairfax, Virginia

"This tour far exceeded my expectations. I was looking to get into warmer weather for a few days, and this trip is probably the most value I’ve ever gotten from a tour. Wonderfully planned. The activities and sightseeing were much better than I anticipated. I enjoyed the opportunities we had to see wildlife, and the thermal baths were a blast. Caravan appears to be taking care of the staff in Costa Rica and I applaud and appreciate the efforts." Mr. R.D., River Forest, Illinois

"This was our first guided tour and thought it was extremely organized and stress free. Each event happened on time. The baggage pick-up from rooms was always prompt. Sightseeing was great as we got to see a lot of different areas of Costa Rica. Our director was great at pointing out points of interest and explaining culture. I could have watched the monkeys all day. I will recommend your tour. It was very well-handled. We always had a safe place to keep our passports, etc." Mrs. L.C., Philadelphia, Missouri

"We had a wonderful time on this, our first Caravan tour. Everything was just wonderful. We enjoyed all the sights and activities and learned so much about the people and country. All of the buffet meals were great. I can’t say enough about how wonderful, professional and informative our director was. It was a real treat to have her. Every day was well organized with bus stops every couple hours; just perfect." Mr. S.S., Germantown, Wisconsin

"There were full days - much to see and learn. There was a wide variety of nature and culture. There never was a dull moment. The hotels varied from cosmopolitan with spiraling buffets, to simple basic with a creative flair on spectacular views/sounds, to luxury. Excellent porters all around. Our director was the very best and she made our trip special and memorable. Bravo!" Ms. R.F., Sebastian, Florida

"Caravan gets a five star rating for this tour. Best value, best services, flawless execution all around. Hotel check-in, baggage handling, everything exceptional. Plenty of food for all meals, great variety and tasty salads and fruits. Seat rotation was very good, and all the transfers were flawless. All the excursions were excellent choices. We enjoyed them very much. Our tour director was excellent and made our sightseeing very interesting. We fell in love with Costa Rica’s friendly people. Hot springs was a lovely experience. Hanging bridges were unique. All the hotels were excellent." Mr. & Mrs. R.S., Flagtown, New Jersey

"Looking forward to our next Caravan tour! We loved Costa Rica and its beaches, people, country, seeing monkeys everywhere was amazing. We loved all the wildlife and the caring and protecting them. People were very friendly and every employee was professional and looked amazing. Fun activities, easy walking and informative, excellent choices. All the hotels were wonderful." Ms. K.Q., Staten Island, New York

"I can’t stop talking about this wonderful experience!! Fabulous organization, clockwork precision. Every aspect of the trip was thought through, really a well-oiled machine. Where to begin. We did every activity from ox carts, coffee plantations, we learned so much. The church and sculpture boxwoods, the hot tubs, river cruises, jungle tours, all without exception fabulous. Terrific meals at each location, great selections and services. Thank you very very much!" Ms. D.P., Los Altos, California

"Very happy with all the accommodations and services offered. The tour was action packed and a good selection of various things. The two boat tours and hot springs were my favorite. The organization and adherence to the schedule were really good. Our TD could not have been better, so much knowledge in so many areas with the added benefit of humor and kindness." Ms. C.R., Colorado Springs, Colorado

"We booked this trip because we know of different people that had taken trips with Caravan, all of them spoke highly of it, some had gone to Costa Rica, Yellowstone Park, Grand Canyon, and not one of them had anything negative to say about it. For us, since we arrived at the airport in Costa Rica, everything went smooth. The people that we met were very pleasant, and some of them we are keeping in touch with and even trying to plan another tour together, which is amazing! We will recommend this trip to anyone: food, accommodations, and scenery we were pleasantly surprised. Great value and service." Mr. & Mrs. A.M., Lake Worth, Florida

"You have put together an amazing tour at a great price. No complaints. Excellent meals overall. Our TD worked her behind off and did a great job. I will highly recommend you!" Mr. D.V., Hemet, California

"The hotels were all great in their own way. The meals were very good, tasty, plentiful and fairly well-balanced. Our tour director was unbelievably great, an encyclopedia of information convey tours in an entertaining, caring and interesting manner. You have set very high standards with your tour and guides." Mr. & Mrs. W.H., Henderson, Kentucky

"When booking this trip, because of the affordable price, I was feeling it might be a bit below standard and this was not the case at all. Our tour director was phenomenal! He was over the top! He was friendly, funny, full of information, warm and willing to attend our needs. We were his top priority and it showed. He showed his love and knowledge of the country. I loved Costa Rica because of him. Unbelievable trip! Caravan went well beyond my expectations. I feel a great part of my reason for loving this trip so much was because of our tour guide and our safe driver. The country is beautiful and the citizens are so happy and welcoming to visitors. I would recommend Caravan to anyone interested in seeing Costa Rica. There is so much see, you don’t want to miss a minute of it." Ms. J.H., Walnut Creek, California

"The hotels were all nice and a nice variety of different types or styles. The sightseeing and activities were wonderful. Loved the whole experience of everything offered. A wonderful experience and great value, I will be using you again and will recommend to others." Ms. N.L., Winsted, Connecticut

"The meals were delicious! It was very easy to keep my vegetarian diet with this tour. Your tour director was WONDERFUL! Never let go of her, she was knowledgeable about everything any of us wanted to know. She was so personable and always happy too. Costa Rica is BEAUTIFUL!" Mrs. P.H., Gainesville, Florida

"Our tour director was always accessible and approachable to the group. All in all, this tour was excellent, well planned and varied! I enjoyed it and recommend Caravan to everyone. Next trip, I plan to use Caravan due to the quality and knowing you take care and time to arrange good tours whenever they are offered. Thank you!" Mrs. E.M., Phoenix, Arizona

"We had the perfect tour director, very knowledgeable of Costa Rican history, local cultures, and coconuts. Caravan, you should be proud! Besides the fact that you guys do a great job staging all of the sights, wildlife and timing, it was obvious to us that the guides, the hotel staffs, the tour director, the restaurant personnel, etc. all seemed to rise to the occasion for a Caravan tour. You guys are doing something right. Keep it up!" Mr. & Mrs. M.G., Pleasant Hill, California

"The local guides were good at the rain forest and wildlife park, especially seeing Blondie, the orange colored Howler. The trip was well conducted and we saw a lot of Costa Rica." Mr. A.S., San Diego, California

"I very much appreciate the professional manner that we were treated. I am a travel agent, and working in this industry can sometimes be a thankless job. Therefore when I am treated with respect, I try to acknowledge. We are truly grateful to Caravan and our tour director for being so accommodating. I can guarantee you that I will be selling Caravan tours enthusiastically in the future! Our tour director’s knowledge and passion for his country is so evident by the way he describes customs, culture, education, wildlife among many other things. All of the sightseeing, I loved every minute of it, great activities and some free time." Mr. & Mrs. J.C., Caledonia, Michigan

"There was so much food. I got a good idea of foods of Costa Rica. There was variety and lots of bottled water! There was great diversity in visiting different parts of country with attractions, just enough shopping opportunities. The tour director was the sweetest person I ever met. She was always smiling, had great English, always available, very knowledgeable on history, vegetation and country of Costa Rica. She kept things moving, always left on time, very respectful of everyone on tour. She was conservation and safety conscious, had good sense of humor and very accommodating." Ms. J.M., Abington, Pennsylvania

"The hotels were excellent, the tour director was wonderful! Excellent! I can’t say enough about him. He was so knowledgeable about the plants and animals. He was an added bonus to the trip!" Ms. J.L., Asheboro, North Carolina

"The hotels were an outstanding value. Each was clean, comfortable and had a special charm of its own. The meals were ample, excellent choices wide enough to satisfy a picky eater like me. It ranged from excellent to superb. This tour director made Costa Rica fifteen out of ten. I will schedule Tikal, Antigua sometime next year." Mr. C.G., Las Vegas,, Nevada

"My family and friends could not believe how wonderful the accommodations were. Everywhere we stayed the staff was nice and treated us very professionally. The staff treated us from the minute we arrived to the second we left as family. I cannot wait to take another Caravan tour, and tell all my friends about this one. Please do not change a thing, you have got it right." Mr. & Mrs. J.D., Boca Raton, Florida

"Excellent trip, beautiful country. We didn’t miss much! Our guide loves her country and wanted us to see it all. Very enjoyable - loved the coffee plantation, hot springs, and enjoyed the scenery and hotels. Your Caravan day by day planner was a wealth of information as always, and a great guide. Motorcoach was spotless, maintained and cleaned daily. Caravan has always been a good value vacation with knowledgeable guides. Couldn’t do it on our own for the price we paid. A+ for Caravan Tours. Thank you Caravan, well done." Mr. & Mrs. R.N., Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

"The meals were very good. I loved all the fresh fruit. The entire trip was awesome." Mr. & Mrs. T.R., Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin

"The driver was excellent. I drove for UPS for thirty years, I know what it takes to handle a vehicle of this size. I have been on many tours around the globe and our tour director was by far the best. He is very detailed, courteous, sincere and a perfect gentleman.****** Six stars." Mr. & Mrs. L.W., Hot Springs, Arkansas

"I can think of nothing that would improve this trip. I have traveled with other companies; therefore I have some basis for comparison. You are at the top of my list." Ms. M.U., Dublin, Georgia

"Hanging bridges, river cruises, coffee plantations, oxcart artisans...all wonderful and informative. Our excellent tour director could not have been better. Very knowledgeable on all aspects of Costa Rican life. Hotels were spectacular, staff were courteous, amenities were 1st rate. 4-5 stars across the board." Mr. & Ms. D.W., Carmel California

"The locations and activities allowed me to see much of the wildlife I had hoped to see. Beautiful surroundings. Our tour director was a superstar. Intelligent, eloquent as well as a good listener. His knowledge as a naturalist was priceless, I got some pictures of birds I would not have been able to get without him. He was a class act from the moment he stepped on the coach to greet us upon our arrival to the departure when he saw us off. Also enjoyed his sense of humor. He made this trip awesome." Mr. & Mrs. P.G., Terre Haute, Indiana

"I am the last person I would have expected to take an escorted tour. This was a very pleasant surprise! Good work!" Ms. S.K., Los Altos, California

"Caravan provided very good hotels, accommodations at all the spots we stayed were very clean and comfortable. I was very surprised how accommodating everybody was to make it a good trip. After using Caravan, I would recommend it to everybody. Everything was well laid out and planned. Our tour director was a very, very pleasant lady." Mr. R.D., Portland, Connecticut

"Hope to travel with you soon, the trip was well planned in every way. You have top quality help. The service was above average. I miss the country very much. Best vacation ever. The days went by too quickly. It was relaxing. Wonderful job!" Mr. W.N., Lumberton, North Carolina

"There is no way I would have stayed in such superior and sophisticated hotels for the price I paid for it. I am looking forward to another Caravan trip and I will recommend it to all my friends!!" Mrs. J.R., Salenas, California

"Second trip with you to Costa Rica, couldn’t have been better." Mr. N.N., Lumberton, North Carolina

"We experienced many outstanding stops on this trip. I am amazed by our director’s knowledge of his country: politics, education, commerce, nature, animals, plants. The people of Costa Rica are delightful, Costa Rica is a beautiful country. We have booked the Nova Scotia tour in the fall!" Mrs. & Mr. F.C., Greer, South Carolina

"This was a wonderful tour. Enjoyed myself thoroughly." Ms. K.T., London, Ontario, Canada

"The meals were fabulous! Fresh, healthy meals! Variety of climates and nice activity with the option to relax by the pool was very nice! I highly recommend Caravan Tours to anyone, all ages would enjoy this trip. I am recommending this trip to my sister and husband for sure! I will definitely choose Caravan Tours in my future travel as well!" Ms. L.D., Rixeyville, Virginia

"I would recommend Caravan to anyone, and will take another tour." Ms. I.K., Palm Desert, California

"The hotels were fabulous, given the price of the tour. I had low expectations of the hotels. They were really great. The sightseeing and activities were absolutely unbelievable! We saw so many amazing things! It was like everything was there just for us. We had mediocre expectations of this tour because of the price and could not believe our eyes when we pulled into the first hotel. It was beautiful! We booked the trip over the internet and had no idea what Caravan was like. It was the trip of a lifetime and exceeded our expectations in every way. I have been telling everyone how fabulous your company is." Ms. E.W., Owego, New York

"The activities were fun and exciting. We loved the nature cruises on the river. We are younger and loved the more active sightseeing trips. I was very pleased with the entire trip. It is a great value for the money." Mr. C.R., Cabin John, Maryland

"One of the best vacations, if not the best we’ve ever had." Mr. & Mrs. M.R., Millersville, Pennsylvania

"The food was fresh and tasty. In particular, I found local produce very good, especially fruits, veggies and juices. Despite a very busy schedule, the trip was so well organized and run that not only I’ve seen more than expected, but also I was able to rest well." Ms. A.G., Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey

"My next trip with Caravan will be to Nova Scotia. I really enjoyed Costa Rica trip." Mr. J.S., Rixeyville, Virginia

"The tour director was a top professional! We will unhesitatingly recommend Caravan Tours!" Mr. & Mrs. H.M., Loveland, Colorado

"In general, the tour was fabulous and a very convenient, relaxing and economical way to see Costa Rica. It left me with a very positive impression of the country and its people. It appears to be the most progressive and democratic country in Central America." Mr. & Mrs. D.P., Omaha, Nebraska

"The tour was awesome. The Caravan tour director could not have done a better job and all details were handled perfectly. Keep it up!" Mr. & Mrs. L.K., Unionville, Connecticut

"I couldn’t believe that in every city the hotels were getting better and better. Best trip on which I’ve been. Thanks." Ms. R.G., Cabin John, Maryland

"There was plenty of good food, breaks nicely timed. The guides were good choices, they were informative and had good knowledge of the animals and plants along with a cultural background. The hotels were well chosen with great locations and very comfortable. Would love to see the next phase of Costa Rica tours with Caravan." Mr. A.E., Brooklyn, New York

"All hotels chosen for this tour were excellent. They were clean. The staff were very accommodating. The meals were good with an excellent variety of foods to choose from at each location. Our tour director was very knowledgeable of the people, customs, animals, and plant life of Costa Rica. He instilled an appreciation of the country and its natural beauty and splendor. This is an excellent tour at a reasonable cost. Caravan Tours is to be commended." Mr. & Mrs. D.G., Concord, Ohio

"The hotels were amazing! I loved how they were all so different. Each helped show a different aspect of the beautiful country and environment. The meals were delicious, and I am busy at work trying to reproduce some of them at home. Also, I enjoyed so many healthy options and alternatives at every meal. Your tour director was awesome! He was so friendly, patient and knowledgeable, a real person. He was always willing to help in any way. He made us all really comfortable. We really enjoyed having him as our tour guide. I also loved our driver, seeing his smile and trying to speak Spanish with him. I really enjoyed my time in Costa Rica. Thank you Caravan for organizing a trip that showed me so many beautiful things. This was a vacation I will never forget." Ms. A.A., Norman, Oklahoma

"The tour director was excellent. His passion for and knowledge of conservation, plants, wildlife and his country were amazing. He’s the best tour guide I ever had. Wonderful trip, wonderful country, great value for the price." Dr. M.V., LaBelle, Florida

"It was an excellent overview of a fascinating country. Our tour director, what a jewel! Can’t add much to what others have said, except I’ve told fifty plus people, you are the only choice." Mr. E.D., Turnersville, New Jersey

"The buffets were good. As a vegetarian, I managed to have full meals that were enjoyable. Our tour director was terrific, knowledgeable, articulate and considerate. He was a pleasure to be around and offered quite the learning experience. Very passionate. All in all, it was a great experience." Ms. J.D., Melville, New York

"I had a wonderful time and would love to come back on another Caravan tour as long as I have the same tour director and driver. The hotels were great, loved the scenery and views from the hotels, real taste of Costa Rica. There were wonderful sights and lots to see in such a short time. There was good food every time and plenty to go around." Mr. D.S., New River, Arizona

"The hotels ranged from good to excellent, all with swimming pools and beautiful grounds. All had accommodating staffs. The meals were plentiful and tasty. The plantains and eggplant were special hits with me. We were also pleased that all activities were nature oriented. A much more interesting and easy trip than I had imagined, well planned, variety and time to be on one’s own." Mr. & Mrs. F.J., Weston, Connecticut

"Hotel at Arenal was well beyond my expectations. This trip was stocked full of activities yet also allowed for sufficient free time and choices to engage in other activities on our own. I saw more than expected! I have already highly recommended this trip to many of my friends and relatives. The value of this trip was incredible. I am seriously looking at booking a Caravan trip to Guatemala. If that compares to this trip, it will be outstanding." Mr. T.W., Fall River, Massachusetts

"All hotels were good. Rooms were clean and convenience was good. The sightseeing and activities were well planned. Adequate time was allotted so you didn’t feel rushed. Good variety. Our tour director was excellent. He catered to our needs and went above and beyond the call of duty. He was very knowledgeable and did more than expected. I liked that all meals and side trips were included. Would definitely consider another Caravan tour." Ms. A.K., Midlothian, Virginia

"The whole trip was nearly perfect....AAAA rating!" Mr. & Mrs. J.P., Essex, Connecticut

"Our tour director could not have been more helpful. He arranged all the little details like postage for postcards. He was excellent, a true professional, five stars! The tour was excellent, a very good value for the money." Mr. & Mrs. J.S., Coonabarabran, Australia

"The trip was very fulfilling. Would highly recommend it. Every aspect of the trip was educational, compelling and adventurous. It was much more than I expected." Mr. T.J., Upper Marlboro, Maryland

"We are independent travelers, and this was our first tour ever! We absolutely loved this tour and are sure we will use Caravan again. We were able to eat at a table by ourselves if we wanted or join others in the group which gave us the opportunity to mingle or maintain our privacy. We had made some good friends which was totally unexpected. The tour director was absolutely fantastic! We feel we learned so much from her. We won’t hesitate to use Caravan again. I hope all of your tour directors are as good as our tour director." Mr. & Mrs. J.H., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

"The hotel in San Jose’ was wonderful. The room was great, there was a wonderful pool, bar and jacuzzi in the gym. The staff was very friendly and helpful, and taxis out front all day. I also loved the hotel at Fortuna. The little towel decorations were a perfect touch. Being so close to town was wonderful. I loved this trip. Costa Rica is a paradise and Caravan Tours helped make it one of the most memorable experiences. Thank you so much!" Ms. K.P., Lynn, Massachusetts

"My wife and I had wonderful experiences. This tour exceeded our expectations. ‘Pura Vida’ hospitality, local cuisines, hiking, national parks, beaches, pools, boat trips, all at an affordable price. I will run out of superlatives to describe the services provided. Well tailored to folks like us." Mr. J.M., Madison, Wisconsin.

"We knew nothing about Caravan Tours before this trip but would be very happy to recommend the company. Better than expected. Terrific value for the money, professional, organized. A lot of variety packed into every day. Made us feel welcome from day 1 and sorry to leave. You gave us good experience and good memories. Thank you." Mrs. & Mr. K.P., Chesterton, Indiana

"Excellent. We feel we saw a wonderful cross section of what Costa Rica has to offer. Loved every event. We were so glad to have every aspect of this tour taken care of. All we had to do was have fun. Thank you." Mrs. S.T., Seattle, Washington

"We booked last minute 3 weeks ahead and had never done a group tour before. It totally met and exceeded our expectations. Very well thought out for a trip covering 830 miles in 8 days. We especially liked the bird watching, cruises, extended hike options, and beach time on our free day. Made lifelong friends. Would highly recommend and consider another Caravan Tour." Mrs. J.B., Fairfield, Iowa

"The meals were good and there was a wide variety of choices. As a result, I’ve discovered I very much enjoy Costa Rican food. It’s also not possible to say enough about our driver; no one could have done a better job than he did! This was my second Caravan Tour and I will likely go on another." Ms. E.M., Hollywood, Florida

"Awesome. Our director was perfect, her enthusiasm was contagious. She was a wealth of information, and you can tell she enjoys her job and she makes it enjoyable for everyone." Ms. A.P., Orland Park, Illinois

"This was a fantastic trip and my husband and I can’t stop talking about it. I was extremely pleased with all of the hotels and our activities. This was the perfect trip for a nature lover. I had always read the book The Great Kapok Tree to my second graders, so it was a real treat to see one and to see the rainforest animals in their natural habitat." Mrs. M.D., Sykesville, Maryland

"Unbelievable, well-timed wonderful examples of Costa Rican culture. Our director and driver made the trip so enjoyable. You could tell they really valued their career with Caravan. This was my second tour with you. Looking forward to my next trip but these two will be hard to beat, haha." Mrs. M.T., Armada Michigan

"The sightseeing and activities, these were all that were promised and more! We would never have seen and done everything on our own! Very satisfied with this Caravan tour. Will definitely use your tour company again and have and will recommend it to friends. Pura Vida." Mr. & Mrs. L.R., Fort Myers, Florida

"I have never done a guided tour before. This was handled exceptionally from start to finish. We were taken care of the minute we stepped off the plane until we reboarded. I can’t say enough great things about our director. Upbeat, informative, honest and shared so much about Costa Rica. All accommodations and meals were great. My husband concurs." Mrs. N.V., Saint Cloud, Minnesota

"One of my best trips I have been on. The motor coach was comfortable and beautiful. The hotels were wonderful. I enjoyed every activity and sightseeing. I would recommend this tour to anyone and Caravan also." Ms. P.F., Reno, Nevada

"Very nice! The two-night stays were wonderful. The natural sites were the most interesting. What a great contrast to see the mountains and the volcano and then the beaches. All activities were informative and interesting. Fantastic trip." Mr. & Mrs. J.S., Durham, North Carolina

"Surprisingly lovely. Excellent. Plentiful. Diverse. Pleased with variety. I liked sampling local cuisine outdoors in February! A delightful, thorough, and excellently priced Costa Rica tour." Mr. D.W., Indianapolis, Indiana

"Loved this tour! Will be booking another Caravan tour soon. All the accommodations were wonderful. Our director was fabulous, her enthusiasm and love for country was infectious." Mrs. M.S., Pittsford, New York

"Excellent. A great history lesson on Costa Rica, a good assortment of Costa Rican cuisine, and our director was very knowledgeable. Thank you for all!" Ms. N.L., Great Bend, Kansas

"I had never been on a tour before, preferring to travel on my own. I’ll consider another tour. All excellent destinations. All excellent hotels with courteous staff. I cannot say enough about our director, she was intelligent, well-informed, organized, made the tour run like a fine tuned machine…very pleasant and friendly." Mr. S.N., Newtonville, Massachusetts

"The trip overall was amazing and truly one of our best ever. We were kept very busy and entertained everyday with sights, activities, as well as some games and information on the bus from our director. Cruise on the Rio Frio, Arenal Hot Springs, were spectacular. Will be looking forward to traveling with Caravan in the future." Mr. & Mrs. D.F., Chicago Illinois

"This was our 3rd trip with Caravan. You are great to work with. I feel safe and know that you will do your best to assure we have an enjoyable trip and get to experience the best each sight has to offer. Beautiful country. The best tour director I’ve ever had." Mrs. M.S., Lakewood, Colorado

"We will recommend Caravan to our family and friends; what more can I say about our positive experience? Hotels were great. I appreciated that each was different with unique characteristics. Excellent food. Outstanding activities, I liked the variety." Mr. R.F., Greendale, Wisconsin

"The hotel in San Jose was amazing and had a good location! I loved it. The buffet food was terrific and the last meal was perfect! It was amazing to fall asleep in the cute lodges to the sound of the rain, so wonderful! Eating meals right on the water was incredible! The Fortuna hotel had a great location and it was very easy to get into town to enjoy Fortuna! The hotels kept getting better and better! Caravan provides a great way to see so much of the different areas of Costa Rica! Every part of Costa Rica varied so much." Ms. S.F., Lynn, Massachusetts

"There were many activities in a short amount of time! Well worth the bus time. My favorite part of the tour was the natural beauty. Our tour director was very knowledgeable about history, geography, flora and fauna. With a low price, I had expected the accommodations to be substandard and borderline. Much to my surprise, it was an amazing experience with great accommodations." Ms. A.C., Hopewell, New Jersey

"We were very pleased with all of the hotel accommodations. Our needs were met, and expectations most generally were exceeded. We enjoyed all the activities we participated in and appreciated being able to not participate when that choice met our need. Our tour director was excellent. I particularly appreciated her warmness and professionalism and the genuine way in which she helped us understand better the country, people and customs of Costa Rica, the different areas of Costa Rica with all its beauty, diversity and wonderful food. It’s a vacation package well worth the time and money!" Mr. & Mrs. R.J., Charlesville, Missouri

"The hotel in San Jose was an excellent choice. The room was very nice and clean. We loved the pool area and grounds. The variety of activities, scenery and wildlife were amazing. My favorite part of the tour was the National Park at the beach. There were lots of wildlife and incredible scenery. Also, the trip to the hot springs was a wonderful and relaxing change to the sightseeing. Thank you for a wonderful vacation." Mr. & Mrs. J.S., Charlotte, North Carolina

"I appreciated that all the hotels were clean and the staff was friendly. The meals were very traditional and cultural, definitely got the real taste of Costa Rica with all of the different fruit, interesting juices and plenty of rice and beans. I thought this trip was very reasonably priced and offered a lot for the money. I would recommend this tour to others." Mr. & Mrs. R.D., Tualatin, Oregon

"I learned so much and saw so many amazing animals. It’s a beautiful land and country. We saw a lot and traveled a lot. Very organized planning of sightseeing and activities. Our motor coach was always well cleaned, maintained and very comfortable. Amazing experience! We had an excellent tour director! I will highly recommend Caravan Tours to my friends and family and will try to book another trip again soon! Caravan highly exceeded my expectations!" Ms. R.T., South San Francisco, California

"So much was included on this trip that none of us could believe the value! Just the entrance fees alone for some of the things we saw would have eaten up our budget. Everything was well planned and timed perfectly. We were busy all day, but never rushed. Our tour director was EXCELLENT! She had a great presence and kept us all together. She knew so much about Costa Rica, small details, as well as general facts, that it made the country really come to life! Her enthusiasm for her country was contagious. Even my small children left knowing more about Costa Rica than they do about the U.S." Ms. L.S., Richmond, California

"My favorite: seeing the Howler Monkeys, the boat rides in the rain forests, basically the whole tour. I would definitely use Caravan again and would ask for our same tour director to lead us." Mr. & Mrs. G.W., East Northport, New York

"The day at the volcanic spa was very nice. The visit by local school children also was special. The Costa Rica Natural Paradise tour is excellent. People were friendly and accommodating. The meals were simple and very good. I enjoyed the buffet presentations. We enjoyed the extra attention that we got on this tour. It’s highly recommended." Mr. & Mrs. P.G., Hillsborough, New Jersey

"The food was absolutely incredible! My favorite was going from La Fortuna. I cannot recall the name of the restaurant, but it was off the side of the road with the butterfly farm. The plantains were the best I ever had! I would highly recommend a Caravan tour in Costa Rica. This without a doubt has been the best vacation ever and I’ve traveled everywhere." Ms. C.M., Tucson, Arizona

"This had to be one of the most enjoyable vacations I have ever experienced! The food was great and all the people that joined us on this journey were amazing! All hotels are more than what I expected. I felt very comfortable in them for the entire trip! The sightseeing and activities were well planned and well paced. Every activity was above and beyond what I had expected, and I took with me tons of knowledge, photos and memories. The tour director was fabulous, and I learned so much about the country, each species and tons about nature. I would definitely recommend this trip to everyone, no matter what age, or what your idea of vacation is because this trip had it all!" Miss V.K., Fair Lawn, New Jersey

"The meals were excellent. I got to taste a variety of local fruit and vegetables in a different style. The servers were extremely friendly. Lunches of hotels were very well arranged. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Despite eating three meals a day for eight days, I have not gained a pound. Some of the activities on top of the list are; walk through rain forest, wildlife watch walk, the cloud forest, dip in hot springs, watch a volcano erupt at night and the ‘coffee’ show. I also enjoyed all the information with regard to the social and economic of Costa Rica given to us by our tour director. You guys did a great job and I will pass on my experience with Caravan to my friends and relatives. Please keep up the good work!" Mr. & Mrs. S.C., Winnetka, California

"My favorite parts of the tour were the boat trips. It’s an excellent, exceptionally well organized tour. Also, I was very satisfied with the choice of hotels, their locations, and room sizes. I was traveling solo and I did not expect to get a double room, but I did. The rooms were clean with nice beds and great views from the windows. I had a great vacation and would recommend Costa Rica tour with Caravan to all my friends." Ms. T.G., Staten Island, New York

"The hotel in San Jose’ was amazing! I loved it. The buffet food was terrific and the last meal was perfect! It was amazing to fall asleep in the cute lodges to the sound of the rain, in Fortuna! Eating meals right on the water was incredible! It was very easy to get into town to enjoy Fortuna! The hotels kept getting better and better! Caravan provides a great way to see so much of the different areas of Costa Rica! Every part of Costa Rica varied so much." Mr. & Mrs. L.K., Lewiston, Idaho

"There were many activities in a short amount of time! Well worth the bus time. My favorite parts of the tour were our tour director and the natural beauty. Our tour director was very knowledgeable about history, geography, flora and fauna. With a low price, I had expected the accommodations to be substandard and borderline. Much to my surprise, it was an amazing experience with great accommodations." Ms. A.C., Hopewell, New Jersey

"We were very pleased with all of the hotel accommodations. Our needs were met and expectations most generally were exceeded. We enjoyed all the activities we participated in and appreciated being able to not participate when that choice met our need. Our tour director was excellent. I particularly appreciated her warmness and professionalism and the genuine way in which she helped us understand better the country, people and customs of Costa Rica, the different areas of Costa Rica with all its beauty, diversity and wonderful food. It’s a vacation package well worth the time and money!" Mr. & Mrs. R.J., Charlesville, Missouri

"I found the employees of Caravan to be well organized extremely throughout the trip. I enjoyed the tour immensely and I would highly recommend it to others." Ms. K.S., Fair Lawn, New Jersey

"I found there was always plenty of food that was well prepared. I am a food service manager who understands this well, too! I liked that we had a blend of traditional foods of the area as well as foods more familiar to us. Our tour director was excellent! She gave us brief historical background on the bus to help pass the time sitting. She answered all questions, even special, even delicate needs, in the most professional manner. It seemed to me that Caravan had our safety and security in mind everywhere we went. Impressive!!! Overall, this excursion is a great value. I would recommend to others." Mr. D.P., Tampa, Florida

"The food was EXCELLENT! Also, our tour director was great! She made the trip a memorable experience and I don’t think it would have been the same without her. She was so accommodating and did a great job of handling such a large group." Ms. G.V., Culver City, California

"I would like to say that the day by day itinerary is the best thing since sliced white bread. It is fantastic. I am trying to put my 300 pictures together and your guide is making my job so easy. Please keep this as part of the program." Mr. & Mrs. D.U., Fort Lauderdale, Florida

"The trip was wonderful, saw some marvelous things we have never seen before. We especially enjoyed the boat trips and the birds and monkeys. The tour guide and bus driver did a really good job." Mr. & Mrs. J.F., Blencoe, Iowa

"I like the variety between the classy and rustic, made the trip more of an experience. We enjoyed all the stops on the tour. We were impressed with the sightseeing, transportation, and choice of stops. Since this was our second time visiting Costa Rica with a tour group, we were always making comparisons between our first more expensive tour, and the Caravan tour. We were extremely pleased with all aspects of the lodging, transportation, sightseeing and personnel. This was a great value that we will share with our friends." Mr. & Mrs. B.M., Wichita, Kansas

"Great trip overall. I am not a fan of tours in general, but I wouldn’t hesitate to use Caravan again. We felt like Royalty in every hotel we went to. There is nothing like Pina Coladas by the seashore." Mr. & Mrs. J.R., Broomfield, Colorado

"This was my first tour with a large group and I was a little hesitant in the beginning but that quickly changed with the openness, friendliness and professionalism of our director. She was exceptional! I enjoyed all our activities. I liked stopping at roadside stands I will definitely recommend this trip to friends." Ms. D.B., Tucson, Arizona

"In 2017, I ventured to your New England tour and that experience took me to your Costa Rica tour. I will continue to talk about my wonderful experience. Wonderful! Enjoyed everything that was listed. Breathtaking stops. Very fun and relaxed." Ms. V.B., Butler, Pennsylvania

"Our first trip with a guided tour. Caravan had good reviews from a friend. She said it was a good first trip to Costa Rica to see a cross section of the diversity of the country. She was right, we enjoyed the variety and the group of people on a tour. There was a good variety from the ox carts, coffee plantation, to the swinging bridges and birding and nature tours. The tour of San Jose was interesting. We enjoyed seeing so much of the country in such a short time." Mr. R.P., Wheeling, West Virginia

"This was our first excursion with Caravan. Based on this experience we will be planning a trip for next year, most likely Guatemala. Caravan does a great job planning down to the smallest detail and making sure the experience exceeds expectations. All were wonderful. Getting there was half the fun. Our director was fantastic and very personable." Mr. H.M., North Granby, Connecticut

"Traveling with Caravan made me feel like royalty! I really got to experience so many new things, beaches, National Park, wildlife, butterfly garden, it was awesome. Every hotel on the tour was first class, every one offered numerous amenities. I slept every night in comfort and luxury. I hope to repeat the trip and take my husband!" Ms. D.S., Tempe, Arizona

"Had a great time. A good overview of Costa Rica, a well-run trip. All the hotels were great, a step above what I normally stay in. Way above expectations, great choices. I still can’t believe the value for the money, much much better than expected. Excellent selections at the buffets. We will be taking another Caravan tour - an excellent first guide and tour experience." Mr. R.R. & Mrs. L.C., Kissimmee, Florida

"This is my first with Caravan. I was cancelled from another company and found Caravan and I’m so glad I did. Great value, great hotels, great food, great guide, great trip!! All the activities were great and doable for all ages. The nature part was the best. Loved seeing wildlife in its habitat. Every hotel was wonderful, I think they were all five stars. I will book with Caravan again. Don’t change a thing! A+++!" Ms. A.S., Far Rockaway, New York

"Our 4th Caravan tour Costa Rica. A winner on all counts. We have seen first hand the changes, starting at the airport. Thoughtfully scheduled stops. This tour is important enough to keep working on exposing as many people as possible to Costa Rica. Hanging bridges, well organized guided river tour. Our leader was enthusiastic and alert to things in the landscape, important for a better understanding of Costa Rica and its citizens." Mr. D.B., Winchester, Massachusetts

"This is our third Caravan tour and favorite one so far. The people in Costa Rica were so friendly. Every day was great. The float trips and hikes were my favorite. The coffee tour was really good too. Not too much or too little. We were so surprised at the quality of the facilities. I can’t imagine a better director. All the details were taken care of to create a thoroughly delightful trip. Great Caravan tour. Having everything included was so nice. We are highly recommending this to all my friends. Great bang for the buck." Mr. & Mrs. S.P., Prescott, Arizona

"I cannot say enough good things about the Caravan company and have already shared my thoughts with family and friends. You deliver a great product in every aspect. Such a complete experience. This tour was well-structured and provided opportunities that would have been difficult to coordinate on our own. I wanted to see and experience nature on this trip and I was not disappointed. The factories, coffee plantations, hot springs, river floats, wildlife preserves, jungle tours kept us busy engaged and looking forward to each day. The hotels were excellent with spacious rooms, comfortable beds, nicely furnished, good air conditioning and friendly and helpful staff. Overall, the variety of the activities was great and I appreciated the fact that they all had something more to offer." Mr. & Mrs. R.M., Anchorage, Alaska

"I would recommend this tour all day long. The group that I was with was so nice. Everyone was conscious of being timely. The activities were very well organized. I think my favorite was the hanging bridges. Enjoyed the drive and the grounds, so greens. So relaxing, such beautiful weather. Can’t wait to get back to Costa Rica. Pura Vida!" Ms. R.W., Anchorage, Alaska

"We have never done a package tour and we were favorably impressed with the amount included for the very reasonable price. We definitely enjoyed ourselves and made new friends. Saw just about every bird and animal listed in the brochures. Never felt rushed once we were onsite. Journeys were well-spaced with lovely stops. Five-star, top-notch director!" Mrs. S.P., Wernersville, Pennsylvania

"We had a GREAT TIME and would absolutely use Caravan again in the future. The sightseeing was exceptional whether it was hiking in the jungle or rainforest, or river. They were all great!! Your director is truly a remarkable individual and a great asset to your company." Mr. T.E., Liverpool, New York

"Wonderful. You gave me an opportunity to experience people and places I’d never see because I don’t speak the language. I will recommend this tour to all my friends. I feel like I had a real holiday and I didn’t think about home at all. Very well-planned. Thank you!" Mrs. L.D., Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

"We were amazed at the value provided by Caravan. Had we been making our own travel arrangements, we could have never afforded to stay at the splendid hotels Caravan included. All sightseeing and activities were enjoyable and interesting. Caravan’s tour showed us the highlights of Costa Rica and more wildlife than we thought possible. Thoughtful details such as providing a continental breakfast to early departing guests indicated to us what a class act Caravan is." Mr. K.H., Port Townsend, Washington

"Excellent. Thanks to Caravan we got to see many beautiful places at a cost much less than we would have paid if we were on our own. I recommended my friends and family on how wonderful Caravan service is and how safe to travel. Our tour director was wonderful. He kept everything organized and made us feel relaxed like one big happy family." Mrs. A.S., Mount Prospect, Illinois

"This was my first Caravan tour and because of the efforts of our director, driver and staff at hotels, I look forward to many more. I had no idea Costa Rica had so much to offer, and so many different climates. Of course I loved the tropical forests. Meals were fun! Having our own dining areas really helped. Tried new foods that were expertly prepared and presented, and some I hope to prepare at home. The hotels were exceptional, and the staff were attentive and polite." Mrs. J.K., Auburn, Massachusetts

"Thank you for a delightful and educational learning experience in Costa Rica and for warm and sunny days and howler monkey morning alarms. We had a great time. You were efficient in handling all the business. Enjoyed it all, learned much, and thanks for giving time for alternate adventures. We did see Arenal from a distance and lots of wildlife. All that we saw was wonderful." Ms. S.M., Heber City, Utah

"I don’t know how you can improve on excellence. I truly enjoyed my trip to Costa Rica. I couldn’t have been any better. All meals were excellent! Great in taste and plenty of food. I can’t say enough good things about our driver and director. They are an asset to your company. I will be traveling next year with Caravan to Guatemala. Thank you for a great trip with a great price...very affordable for what I saw and did in Costa Rica." Ms. J.D., Glendora, California

"All of the meals on the tour were beyond delicious and an abundance of variety of local foods. Upon my return to the U.S., I find myself wishing I had some of the recipes. The hotels provided beautiful buffets and personal chefs prepared breakfast and dinner offerings at some locations, which was a huge plus to participants. Access to the butterfly garden was an enjoyable experience, the butterflies were amazingly perfect and colorful. The rainforest was a fantastic activity. We took the long hike and walked all the hanging bridges. Scenes were magnificent. Educational hike and activity." Mrs. M.H., Nacogdoches, Texas

"This trip exceeded my expectations. I’ve done a lot of travel by myself, and group tours are not really my thing, but this was such a good experience with a good group of people. A lot was packed into a rather short time, yet it didn’t feel rushed and there was enough time to enjoy the locations. All hotels were of a very high standard, and the rooms were spacious and comfortable with all amenities needed for a pleasant stay. I see another Caravan tour in my future." Ms. L.K., Arcadia, California

"This was my first experience with Caravan but not the last. I am very happy and give an “E” for excellence. You are the only company including all the excursions at no extra cost." Mr. J.S., Ronkonkoma, New York

"Keep doing what you’re doing! Caravan offers very reasonable pricing. All the activities were beautiful and I loved them!" Ms. Y.S., Las Vegas, Nevada

"We wholeheartedly recommend Caravan Tours to our friends, especially your director and driver. The sightseeing was awesome! Fantastic range of geographic, historical and cultural locations. Our driver was safety first, but always on the lookout for natural sights and animals. All hotels were very nice, clean, luxurious and comfortable. All services and personnel were more courteous and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed our stays. Meals were A+++. It was such a treat to have such well presented, clean and cut fruits. We met a lot of fun people on the tour that I will always remember and I hope to see you guys again. Thank you!" Mr. J.L. & K.L., Lombard, Illinois

"Caravan hits the bullseye, no doubt here. It was a wonderful way to see all the sights and the activities were exactly as advertised. They are fun the way they are planned. We were constantly on the go, loved it. We met many other travelers from other countries, very sociable!" Mr. & Mrs. R.C., Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

"This was second Caravan tour. Everyone I’ve spoken with who has used your company only had glowing comments. Even the slightest detail is not overlooked. Excellent director, answered all my questions and provided good insight. Looking forward to my next tour with Caravan." Ms. A.M., Boynton Beach, Florida

"Our travel agent recommended Caravan as a great value and performed beyond expectations. All five hotels were very luxurious and staff and housekeeping service staff always went to special details beyond what was required. The food was of high quality and prepared very well - great variety and healthy. The activities really kept us going - good variety from boat tours, water trips, hot springs, nature hikes to see animals with great variety. Great job to all involved in making this a special vacation from a dreary, tiresome winter in western Montana." Mr. R.N., Polson, Montana

"The coach was very comfortable - no stress! There was not one hitch along the way. Caravan planned right down to every detail. Very impressed and will highly recommend your company. The itinerary was well done, gave good details on what to expect each day." Ms. C.H., Sterling, Massachusetts

"Delightful! We are amazed at the territory we covered and the sights we were able to enjoy. Overall, we were most pleased, as always, with our tour. No complaints, just positives that we share with our friends." Mr. B.H., Fernandina Beach, Florida

"I’ve traveled all over the world and Caravan was amazing. They handle everything from the moment you land so you truly feel like you are on vacation. There is such a nice mixture of activities that it pleases everybody in the group. Our director has a love for Costa Rica that shines through everyday and is an endless source of information. I can’t say enough good things about Caravan!" Mr. T.F., Camas, Washington

"The food was wonderful everywhere. It’s great to have lots of choices. The sightseeing and activities were great, volcanoes, turtles, birds, baby turtles, wonderful plants, waves, sunsets, water, and mountains! What a treat!" Ms. C.W., Broomfield, Colorado

"The hotels, I felt they were all very good, and I liked the friendly hotel staff at all of the hotels and all were clean. The meals were good to very good. I loved the fruit! The sightseeing and activities were excellent. We enjoyed the variety, clever to have shopping at the end! Loved the hot springs and Coffee too. Our tour director was a wealth of knowledge on local economy, politics, sociology, history, ecology, etc. He helped us make a hotel reservation, really excellent. He kept a nice tight time table. I felt we got our money’s worth and would go with Caravan again. Will we get notice of more tours?" Mr. & Mrs. R.C., Chico, California

"The hotels were excellent! The meals were great and fresh fruit #1, very fine presentation. I would recommend this tour to anyone that wanted to escape to paradise." Mr. J.C., Washington, D.C.

"The meals were ample quantities, well cooked, and the various fish entrees were great. I learned more about Costa Rica from both sightseeing and activities. The tour director was knowledgeable in History, Geography, Political and ecosystems and very well organized! He has charisma! He made the tour great! Would recommend this tour to our friends." Mr. & Mrs. G.L., Brookfield, Wisconsin

"We found the people of Costa Rica very gracious and friendly. We were very impressed with Caravan and look forward to receiving your catalog for the Arizona trip." Mr. & Mrs. A.G. Pottstown, Pennsylvania

"All hotels were wonderful. There was plenty to eat. Everything was delicious. We saw a red howler monkey. I will definitely take another Caravan tour and will recommend it to friends." Mr. & Mrs. R.F., Hialeah, Florida

"Our tour director was wonderful, most informative and kept on time. She was friendly, smart and gave us many pointers. She worked hard to please us all. We recommend this trip to many. It was well worth the money." Mr. & Mrs. J.M., Barrington, Rhode Island

"I liked all of our accommodations at the hotels. The sightseeing and activities schedule was wonderful. Our trip was very good and we felt it was one of our best vacations." Mr. & Mrs. F.B., Memphis, Tennessee

"Caravan is absolutely the very best way to see Costa Rica. I have been in Costa Rica perhaps twenty times during the sixties and seventies, but never saw the East coastal regions. I thoroughly enjoyed the Canal Cruises. Fortuna and facilities at Arenal Volcano were outstanding. The tour director was certainly professional. He was knowledgeable of plants and animals and very helpful to all passengers. I was very pleased, surprised and impressed." Mr. & Mrs. G.A., Tuplo, Mississippi

"The activities were well-planned and reflected the beauty of Costa Rica. Caravan can be very proud of their tour director and driver on this tour. The cost of the tour was very reasonable considering the meals, accommodations and activities." Mrs. S.H., Naples, Florida

"The hotel in San Jose was great with comfortable beds, nice view of area. A special treat, so cute, great pool. Coffee in the early a.m. to our own place was a nice touch. The animals were awesome as well. Fortuna, I loved the animal decorations made from towels unique. We had the perfect tour director. I could not say enough kind words about how professional, caring, concerned and educational she was throughout the whole tour. She loves her country and seeing it through her eyes was amazing. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect tour director, and we will always remember. The motor coach was comfortable as were the boat trips. It was nice to have someone else do the driving, especially in an unknown place." Mr. & Mrs. Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts

"The hotels were excellent. The meals were very good and plenty of variety. Our tour director was excellent. He was extremely knowledgeable about what we were seeing and doing. He was excellent at troubleshooting and taking care of any problems. I would highly recommend this Caravan tour to all of our friends and associates." Mr. D.H., Naples, Florida

"All our hotels were excellent. I liked the single cabins best! All were clean and the staff was courteous. All activities were excellent! We saw various ecosystems, and numerous wildlife. We took this tour to see Costa Rica. The tour was well-planned and executed. Thanks." Mr. & Mrs. M.M., Columbia, Missouri

"The hotels were terrific. I loved being in the city in San Jose and the meals were very nice. The tour director was wonderful. We’ve already recommended her to others. Terrific value and we had a wonderful time. The tour people were very safety conscious. GREAT TRIP!" Mrs. D.M., Lincoln, New Hampshire

"All sightseeing and activities were fantastic, had great plans and kept us as active as we desired to be. The boat trips along with the bus enabled us to see so much of the country, the wild like, animals etc. We had a wonderful trip and have already recommended it to our friends and family." Mr. & Mrs. M.V., Manhattan Beach, California

"This was our first organized tour and we loved it. It was nice to have someone driving and planning the stops. We will refer Caravan to family and friends and you’ll see us on another tour in the future. Awesome job, great value and great memories." Mr. & Mrs. T.R., Newport, Oregon

"I was very pleased with Caravan Tours. We are planning to take your Glacier National Park trip and the Prince Edward Island trip. Thank you for a great experience in Costa Rica." Mr. & Mrs. E.C., Royal Grande, California

"Nice accommodations, appreciated the pools. Porters were very efficient. The meals were good and filling. I was glad we were eating more traditional foods and not American fare. This trip was a thousand times better than I anticipated. Can’t wait to pick a new adventure with Caravan." Ms. S.C., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

"I have to say the local guides were experts in their fields and always ready to answer questions in depth. The motor coach was super and comfortable! River trips and personnel, fun! Enjoyed every minute of this tour. Have already recommended Caravan Tours to many people. Thank you for a memorable nine days!" Ms. R.W., Redondo Beach, California

"Had a wonderful time, will tell all my friends and family to go on your tour. They will not be disappointed! I am going again." Mr. J.M., Winston-Salem, North Carolina

"I enjoyed all of the local guides. The naturalists really tried to point out as much flora and fauna as possible. This was a great trip. We will most likely travel with Caravan again. Very professional. Everything the brochure said, it happened. Tour was timely and other guests mixed well. It was just a darned great vacation with wonderful memories!" Mrs. A.P., Los Osos, California

"The people at the hotels were wonderful, and also very helpful, right down to the bell hops. All the meals were fresh produce, with choices of fish, chicken, or beef. Traveling with three picky eaters, they had no problem filling their stomachs. I could go for some of that oh so good pineapple right now. Our tour director, always with a smile, was so awesome. I learned so much from her. She really knows her Country and history. I will give her a billion stars!! Now, I have a great FRIEND! When I come back in September, can I find out when she is going to be the tour director? Thank you for such an awesome time!" Mrs. D.C., Portland, Connecticut

"Our tour director was wonderful. He was always very helpful with any problem. He was very pleasant, organized and a great dancer. He was fun at the closing night party. Our driver was excellent, always felt very safe with him." Mr. & Mrs. J.B., Encino, California

"I was pleasantly surprised to see such beautiful jungle flora and fauna. Our local guide at Cano Negro was extremely entertaining. We got to see ‘blondie,’ the rare local ‘howler monkey.’ Our driver was the best! I wish we could have him as a driver on our next trip. During the trip, my ex-husband (my traveling companion) hurt his foot resulting in an unscheduled trip to a private clinic. Our tour director made the arrangements, accompanied us and then arranged for accommodations throughout the remainder of the trip. Any type of injury could have put a damper on the trip, but due to our tour director’s professionalism in handling the unexpected, our trip was a great SUCCESS! Our group consisted of forty-four persons from the U.S. and Canada. She took the time to meet and help every one of us. We all had such a great time, we all are planning on a ‘reunion trip’ next year and I truly recommend everyone to travel with CARAVAN." Ms. A.V., Boca Raton, Florida

"The tour director was wonderful. She is a credit to the tour industry. I would recommend a Caravan tour to anyone." Mr. & Mrs. M.F., New Port Richey, Florida

"The country is really of outstanding beauty. Best of all, it leaves a picture in your mind. I loved the fruit and veggies and some of the pork. I liked the fish and I do not eat much fish, but this was good. Our tour guide made the most of every day. He kept us going, we really saw so much. He was the best, I think he will be their next president. The people on our bus and all the people in Costa Rica were really the best I’ve ever met. The whole trip was the best." Mr. J.K., Avon Park, Florida

"I highly recommend this Caravan trip! So much to see and enjoy. I really feel I experienced the outstanding beauty of Costa Rica." Ms. N.L., Lynnwood, Washington

"I liked the chicken and carrots. The sightseeing boats were great. I am nine years old and I want to come back." Mr. M.P., Palm Coast, Florida

"The hotels were better than expected. The view and ability to walk up and down the beach was wonderful as well. A very educational tour in all areas for the short amount of days." Mr. & Mrs. B.M., Saratoga, California

"All hotels were comfortable; all good values. Rustic was sort of fun, because all got into the spirit of it. It’s a tiny country, but so much to see. It was a great trip and a real value." Mr. & Mrs. H.F., Greer, South Carolina

"The tour was great. I would recommend this to anybody. The Costa Rican people we met, and who serviced us during our stops, reminded me so much of my country, the Philippines." Mr. M.C., Long Beach, California

"The tour director was excellent! He was a real people person, watched out for us all and was most helpful and knowledgeable. I recommend him highly! Trip was worth twice the price. We are recommending it to all our friends." Mr. G.Z., Laguna Niguel, California

"If you ever want to get a taste of Costa Rica, go through Caravan tours in USA. Your hotel selection of places to stay was very good and the hotels get five stars. All that anyone could ask for and more. The meals were great selections, very tasty and more than enough. All in all, I was pleased with all the beautiful flora in all the places we went. I was a solo traveler for the first time, but fell into the group with ease and felt welcome. Keep up the good work, I will recommend to all that I speak. Thank you for all the good experiences on this trip." Ms. M.P., San Diego, California

"The hotel in San Jose was wonderful and gorgeous! The lodge in Fortuna was marvelous and all personnel in all of the properties were efficient, eager to please and professional. I enjoyed the meals so much at each property that I had second helpings most of the time. The tour director really cares about his country, his people and his tourists. I can’t say enough good things about Caravan and the trip and Caravan’s employees. I ran out of positive adjectives! We will be booking with Caravan again!" Mr. & Mrs. M.E., Sylmar, California

"The sightseeing and activities were well-planned and coordinated to find the best of this beautiful country. A good variety, I especially enjoyed the small museum in San Jose. Our tour director was superb, very knowledgeable and funny. He has a real feeling for the outdoors and the creatures, plants and people." Mrs. J.K., San Diego, California

"I will recommend Costa Rica and Caravan Tours to everyone and suggest they try to obtain our tour director. He was the best ever, knowledgeable, interested, humorous, foresighted and prepared. The sightseeing was excellent. Volcanoes, animals and plants were terrific, and monkeys were the highlights." Mr. & Mrs. D.S., Estero, Florida

"I was very impressed. We were able to see so many things and see so much of the country in just nine days. The trip was very well organized. This trip was absolutely awesome. I will recommend it to any one going to Costa Rica. This was my first trip with Caravan and we encountered no problems. Such an amazing trip for such a low price." Ms. K.W., North Little Rock, Arkansas

"The hotels were excellent and the staff were always courteous and helpful and friendly. The food was very good, especially the seafood. We visited interesting places and observed a wide variety of flora and fauna. The tour director was absolutely top notch! His knowledge of his country is outstanding and made our tour very interesting. He was patient, always courteous, and a delight to travel with. Caravan provides a great experience. Would not hesitate to recommend to family and friends!" Mr. & Mrs. J.C., Westerville, Ohio

"Wonderful, wonderful trip. Nicely planned out. Enjoyed everything from beginning to end. Great for the price. Terrific, personable guides. Will do this trip again. Thank you!" Ms. D.W., Chambersburg, Pennsylvania

"This tour was all I expected and more! What a beautiful country and wonderful people in Costa Rica. We had the best tour director ever! Organized, informative and helpful." Mrs. J.R., Meadville, Pennsylvania

"An excellent, fun-filled, informative tour. Each of the hotels was great in its own way for the region. We are recommending to our friends." Mr. M.K., Wichita, Kansas

"We loved every minute of our trip. Fun, entertaining, and a learning experience. The coffee plantation, the beaches, the hand-painted carts, and the monkeys! The hotels were exceptionally clean and well supplied. Plenty of time to take lots of photos. Thank you." Ms. L.S., Eugene, Oregon

"Exceeded expectations. Didn’t expect that level of quality of hotel. Bus was always immaculately clean. Like I have told everyone, I can’t believe everything that was provided, hotels, meals, and tour for the price I paid. Definitely recommending Caravan to family and friends." Mrs. M.L., Eutawville, South Carolina

"The staff was great everywhere. The amount of food was more than expected. A good variety. I really felt like we saw a large area of the country and a diverse selection. The places we visited greatly exceeded my expectations. I have nothing bad to say. It would have been nice to sit with everyone at one large table at the final dinner. Thanks for putting such a great tour together." Ms. J.P., Alton, Maine

"Excellent. Outstanding. Our director was full of enthusiasm and very charming. She went out of her way to make sure everyone was comfortable and happy. This was my first tour with a large group ever and I was very pleasantly surprised at how good it was. I will certainly take another Caravan tour someday." Mr. M.O., New York, New York

"Our director’s attention to detail made the tour so easy for us. We never felt rushed. We never went hungry. We know there were many people behind the scenes to make all the hotels, food, and tours possible. Thanks to them also. We especially enjoyed Fortuna and Guanacaste. We would recommend this tour to others." Mrs. & Mr. B.D., Butte, Montana

"Excellent, unique hotel rooms and service, great food and variety. We found the population of Costa Rica to be lovely people. We very much enjoyed our trip and cannot say enough about our director. She is a credit to your company. We will absolutely consider another Caravan tour." Mrs. S.M., Bohemia, New York.

"Outstanding in every way!! Hotels were a great wonderful surprise, and our director was thoughtful, professional, organized. Great attitude and friendly. Loved her, made our trip. We were both impressed and enjoyed this trip much more than expected! Pura Vida!" Mrs. & Mr. E.S., Hercules, California

"Exceptional. All the hotels were nice, unique and interesting. Our rooms were great. We enjoyed all the tours and activities. A complete experience. Muy Bueno!" Mr. & Mrs. L.R., Enid, Oklahoma

"The meals were very good and well presented. I enjoyed the lunch stop locations too. Our tour director made this trip very comfortable and fun. This was my first Caravan tour. I would book another one in the future." Mr. & Mrs. B.R., Oberlin, Ohio

"The hotels were very clean. Some were luxurious. The hotel in Fortuna was a unique one. We enjoyed it. The tour director was very accommodating, thoughtful and well organized. I thought I would never enjoy a guided tour vacation, but this was different. I had a good time and I learned a lot about plants, trees, animals and birds. The food selection was excellent with great farewell dinner in San Jose. The chef deserves five stars. We had the best tour director. He went out of his way to make everybody feel welcome and comfortable. The tour was a family atmosphere. He was very informative and knowledgeable." Mr. D.M., Long Beach, California

"The hotels had beautiful rooms, great service and nice showers! The sightseeing and activities were amazing! It felt like everything was staged. Much more than I expected! Excellent overall!" Mr. & Mrs. M.G., Pleasant Hill, California

"I really loved Costa Rica, and a lot of it has to do with you. Thank you for delivering everything you promised and more. This was indeed a very rewarding experience. The meals were great, a terrific variety of foods. I love drinking all those tasty juices with my meals, very good for you. The tour director was great! She was quite knowledgeable and pleasant. I loved her sense of humor. She made me feel that my family and I were in good hands; put me at ease from the very beginning, which helped me relax and enjoy my vacation. I just want to thank you for making this such a memorable vacation. I will recommend your company to anybody I know. Pat yourselves on the back for a job well done!" Ms. N.R., Arvada, Colorado

"The tour director was excellent! We have been on many tours, and by far he has been the best. This is a very good tour and cost is also good." Mr. & Mrs. D.S., Estero, Florida

"The meals were fabulous and the final ‘sit down’ was especially nice. The sights were very good, enjoyed the coffee plantation and the cart factory. Had not traveled with Caravan before, but will recommend it to my friends." Ms. J.M., Laguna Niguel, California

"This tour was a LOT nicer than I thought it would be. I’m glad there were other children for my granddaughter to play with. She had a ball and so did we." Mr. & Mrs. T.B. Columbia, South Carolina

"We had a really great time, learned a lot about Costa Rica. It was an experience I will always cherish. Amazing value for the money." Mr. & Mrs. H.G., Parkland, Florida

"This was one of the most relaxing tours that weve been on. Your tour director was attentive and full of knowledge, humor, and made us feel welcome in his country. The day-by-day itinerary book that you supply is terrific. On this particular tour, I think you should stress how very casual Costa Rica is." Mr. & Mrs. L.W., North Miami Beach, Florida

"All hotels were excellent. They were the best accommodations available for where we were. All were extremely clean and the service was exceptional. The hotel meals were great. It was surprising how good the lunches on the road were and how quickly they served the group. Your activities were well chosen and extremely well planned. Your rest and photo stops were at great places, timely, and helped keep everyone in good humor. Your tour director was the best, totally organized, informed and patient." Ms. L.A., Hickory, North Carolina

"It's my first experience using Caravan Tours. It was an excellent trip. I will definitely travel with Caravan again!" Mr. G.C., Bridgeport, Connecticut

"The meals were very good. Your tour director's knowledge of local plants and wildlife were highlights. It was a fun and informative vacation. I found the people to be friendly and the landscape beautiful. Overall, a great experience!" Mr. & Mrs. L.T., Rio Vista, California

"All the meals were excellent. As a vegetarian, it was refreshing to see several selections that I could enjoy. Your tour director was the best that I have ever had. She was knowledgeable as well as flexible enough to please the whole group. The local guides were very knowledge and all had wonderful senses of humor. I would definitely go on another tour with Caravan. I'm even thinking of retiring in Costa Rica." Ms. S.D., Culver City, California

"This tour of Costa Rica included all types of flora and fauna that could possibly be encountered in 9 days on a trip. Perfect choice of sightseeing and activities: a 10 star rating." Mrs. E.D., Stockton, California

"We were really impressed with the quality of the hotels provided. Your tour director was the perfect host - gracious, considerate, knowledgeable and always on top of things. Thanks for a wonderful positive experience. I will have no hesitation recommending Caravan Tours to friends and family. Thanks." Mr. & Mrs. J.H., Fountain Valley, California

"Great food, especially enjoyed meals at restaurants - a nice change from too many buffet meals at hotels. Your tour director was excellent, really knowledgeable about Costa Rica, and eager to share knowledge without being too in your face. There was a good mix of active and leisure time." Ms. D.H., Cerritos, California

"We will remember this wonderful trip, made especially good by your tour director and her knowledge and sincere pride in her beautiful country. At least 130 birds were spotted and identified." Mr. & Mrs. D.M., Mount Royal, Quebec, Canada

"The meals were excellent, quality and variety fabulous. The fresh fruits were outstanding. I liked the free bottled water on motor coach also." Ms. C.N., West Sand Lake, New York

"Your tour director was the best we have ever had. This was a very nice trip, liked having so much included: meals, drinks, excursions and tips. Would like to use Caravan any time." Mr. & Mrs. S.N., Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota

"It is evident to us that Caravan puts together a great trip and knows that an excellent tour director is an absolute necessity for an enjoyable tour. Caravan, you surely pick good ones! The hotels were very good considering the several areas that we visited. I believe them to be the best available in the areas that nightfall found us. This was our second tour with Caravan, and even though it was quite different from the Canadian Rockies, it was also a wonderful trip. We are very impressed with Caravan and are looking forward to another tour next year." Mr. & Mrs. W.Q., Marietta, Georgia

"All the meals in hotels and off the grounds were wonderful, lots of choices. There was a great selection of activities. We loved the tram ride, volcano visit and swimming in the Pacific Ocean. We felt like we were really in the jungle. Great idea to include school visits, very educational for our 10 and 15 year old to see what schools are like in other countries." Mr. & Mrs. J.W., Orlando, Florida

"This has to be marked down in my book as one of the best tours I've been on. I will highly recommend Caravan Tours to all my friends and acquaintances. You should be very proud of what you have to offer." Mr. & Mrs. C.J., Bend, Oregon

"With such an outstanding director, guides and driver, our group became friendly and made contacts with each other which are likely to develop into plans for future tours together. This was an enjoyable, memorable adventure that we will share with our friends and co-workers." Mr. & Mrs. R. V., Enfield, Maine

"Very well planned sightseeing and activities. Loved the river boat trips to see the wildlife. A well paced tour - at last a tour that doesn’t feel like I’m in a race! The pace was excellent. Your tour director was A++. Very warm, but professional and took care of all the details and was very available any time. Your local guides were excellent, fun attitudes and knowledgeable. Your tour was excellent value for the money. Professionally done. Will recommend this company back in USA. Thanks!" Ms. S.D., Enfield, Maine

"Our experience with Caravan tells us to use them again and we would recommend Caravan. Every member in the group was terrific. It seems like the best gravitate to Caravan." Mr. & Mrs. S.B., New Hyde Park, New York

"Hotels were excellent. I couldn’t have discovered nor booked these accommodations on my own - nor at the price paid. They ranged from superior and sophisticated to superior and quaint. I’d let you take me anywhere, and everyone I’ve met or talked to about the tour knows that. Thank you! From the time I first sent in my deposit I felt comfortable that everything was well taken of. Your tour director was absolutely delightful." Mr. & Mrs. J.R., Pollock Pines, California

"Your tour director has an eye like an eagle when it comes to spotting wildlife and birds. Your Caravan driver was excellent." Mr. & Mrs. D.M., Citrus Heights, California

"Touring with you from beginning to end is a pleasure. All meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner were excellent and provided plenty of fruits and other choices. We enjoyed this trip equally as well as our first trip with you and we can only speak well of Caravan. The trips are arranged well and the time given in the different areas was well planned and sought out. We recommend Caravan to all our friends. Thanks again for an exciting trip!" Mr. & Mrs. K.M., Kernersville, North Carolina

"What a wonderful and unforgettable vacation to Costa Rica! We're looking forward to doing the same trip again some time in the future. We truly enjoyed ourselves. We are recommending this trip to all our friends and families!" Mr. & Mrs. J.M., San Francisco, California

"Hotels: excellent choices, good variety. Your meals were good to excellent, fresh local food, attractive and plentiful, spacious and uncrowded. Our first trip with Caravan. We have traveled extensively with other companies. Your trip was exactly as advertised. We have never traveled with a more friendly and gracious group. Your tour director made the tour as smooth as silk and the atmosphere stayed upbeat. We look forward to another Caravan trip and have already recommended it to a number of friends." Mr. & Mrs. G.K., Metairie, Louisiana

"This tour exceeded every expectation in every way. At such a bargain price I expected so-so food and hotels. Not so! Don't know how you do it, but we'll be recommending Caravan." Mr. & Mrs. M.L., Fairfax, Virginia

"Being all inclusive was wonderful! I liked having the option of joining excursions or doing your own activities. Encourage people to go to the waterfall by Arenal; it is breathtaking. Thanks! I had fun and learned a lot." Ms. K.H., Naperville, Illinois

"The meals were more than expected. Food was wonderful, restaurants clean, staff courteous and wanting to please. We saw everything and more that the brochure described. Your tour director was very knowledgeable about his country, the plants and animals. He went the extra mile. Your local guides were knowledgeable and spoke English well. Your driver was superb, always felt safe. We will definitely do another Caravan tour." Mr. D.A., Evans, Georgia

"As a travel agent, I will definitely recommend this tour to my clients. The local guide with a great background and wealth of information on Costa Rica made for a very good tour." Mrs. B.W., Northbridge, California

"Your hotels were perfect for a Costa Rica tour! Appreciated the fact that we did not overshop, but the opportunity was there for those who desired. Your tour director could not have been more accommodating and we had a diversified group. He circulated, showed no favoritism and was an excellent host. All others were very good. Loved the river cruises. Overall, a perfectly wonderful trip and a feather in the hat of Caravan for putting it together." Mr. & Mrs. D.E., Lancaster, Pennsylvania

"Your Caravan tour director excellent!!! The best we've ever had in over two dozen guided tours. We would recommend this trip to others." Mr. H.C., La Mesa, California

"The rest and photo stops were very well spaced so that we never felt hurried or tired. Our tour director was always a welcoming presence, very courteous, full of stories and anecdotes about the Costa Rican sites." Mrs. E.Y., Carson, California

"The birds, monkeys and flowers we saw were worth everything. The visit to the coffee plantation and the comedy were great. The meals were good and there was plenty of food. I particularly loved the fruit. Your tour director was very helpful and considerate. I am a first time traveler with Caravan and am satisfied with my experience." Ms. L.C., Santa Fe, New Mexico

"Enjoyed the sightseeing and activities immensely. Your Caravan tour director was extremely pleasant, co-operative and did a fine job. Your local guides were high quality. We would highly recommend this tour. All the people were a delight to be with. Thank you." Mr. & Mrs. R.J., Fairfield, Connecticut

"The quality and service at the hotels was excellent. All the meals were excellent. Your tour directors background and bilingual skills were a perfect complement to tour director responsibilities. He had a great sense of humor and was responsive to travelers' concerns. Caravan had the best bus driver I have ever seen. He kept the bus in perfect condition. I was surprised at the high quality of lodging, food, service and skilled guides supplied by Caravan. The trip was a good value!" Mr. R.U., Rhinelander, Wisconsin

"We saw and learned so much about Costa Rica. There was so much to see and do. Very impressed." Mrs. & Mr. N.C., Mesquite, Nevada

"Exceeded expectations. My two Caravan tours have left me with great respect for your choices in sites, personnel, lodging, and ability to control client costs. Only wish that you covered the whole world. Good job!" Ms. J.T., Saint Johnsonville, New York

"Hotels were great. Each was unique. Some meals were more elaborate than others, but all were very good and had a great variety. I would not hesitate to take this trip again. I will tell my friends what a great trip they missed. This is my first trip with Caravan but it wont be the last." Ms. J.B., Bayonne, New Jersey

"Meals were very good both at hotels and sightseeing stops. Your sightseeing and activities were well selected and paced. Your tour director deserves an A++ - he's knowledgeable, approachable, articulate and confidently in control. Your local guides had good levels of knowledge and English. Your motor coach driver is NASCAR-quality safe, efficient and completely reliable. Although clearly you cant control who is on tours, we were impressed with our companions. Bottom line: Thank you, it was an excellent, fun tour." Mr. & Mrs. L.L., Vista, California

"Everything was paced nicely. The unique thing about Caravan is that you can do as little or as much as you want on a tour. The local guides we had were very knowledgeable. Our driver was great. He kept the bus spotless. We were totally impressed with his driving skills. We will definitely take another Caravan tour." Mr. & Mrs. L.H., Beaver, Pennsylvania

"Hotels were very high quality, clean, comfortable, with a gracious staff. The meals were very good and healthy with lots of choices, many typical Costa Rican foods and fresh fruits and vegetables. I especially liked the all-inclusive program. A good pace, never too long on the bus. I have been on other tours and feel that Caravan is the best value. I will seek out Caravan tours to other countries. Thank you!" Ms. S.M., Hockessin, Delaware

"The Caravan bus, hotels, meals, local guides, driver, and tour director were exceptional. I’ve traveled with another tour company six times. While well pleased with them, Caravan was superior. I’ve never had a tour vacation run so well without hitches or disappointments." Ms. P.B., Baton Rouge, Louisiana

"We saw both white faced and squirrel monkeys up close and the hike and views were awesome. I’d give the entire tour an A+." Mrs. J.S., Sarasota, Florida

"We accomplished everything we wanted to see. The meals were excellent. Your tour director fantastico! We were very impressed with all your local guides. We thoroughly enjoyed the trip." Mr. & Mrs. R. M., Steelville, Missouri

"We had wonderful meals at all the hotels and restaurants. Your tour director was superb! Your local guides were fun and surprised us with their excellent English and detailed knowledge of their respective subjects and areas. Your Caravan driver was extremely careful and considerate. His driving skills were amazing on the narrow Costa Rican roads. The coach was maintained well and was clean and comfortable. This is a great tour. I will recommend it to friends." Mr. N. G., Fair Oaks, California

"This is a trip that I will recommend to my friends as well as traveling with Caravan. Much of this is due to having such a good tour guide. I can only give the highest recommendation, bright and caring, her enthusiasm was contagious. I hope to travel with Caravan again in the future." Mrs. W.L., Lexington, South Carolina

"Fabulous! Excellent. Thank you. The whole tour, from airport arrival to departure was so well-planned." Ms. L.F., Richmond, Virginia

"My son treated us to the trip. He knew that Costa Rica was on my bucket list. I assured him the Caravan would be the best way for him and his girlfriend (both professionals) and the two of us (retired) to go together. And it sure was! Wonderful, clean beautiful hotels, well-organized staff. We all had a great time! We’ve got three more tours of yours in our future." Mrs. & Mr. K.P., Glasgow, Virginia

"Costa Rica had been on our travel list for several years, and we certainly enjoyed our visit with Caravan. The majority of the hotels for this tour were excellent, the selection and quality of food was very good. We enjoyed the wide selection of fresh fruits and many different vegetable dishes. The sightseeing and most activities were excellent. The cruise on the Rio Frio allowed us to see quite a few species of birds and other wildlife. There was no need for repellent and we did not need any rain gear. The weather was great!" Ms. C.A., Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.

"A worthwhile value trip with a great tour director. Kind, thoughtful, and conscientious. A considerate tour group. Loved that all meals were provided. The provided ample water a great idea. Excellent!" Mr. G.L., Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

"Excellent, exceptional, amazingly beautiful hotels. The buffets were abundant and we loved the traditional meals. Over-the-top activities, plenty of stops, clean rest areas. Beautiful, well kept coach, roomy, and full of water. Pura vida, thank you." Mr. R.M., Long Pond, Pennsylvania

"Excellent hotels, all were different, but wonderful, clean and well stocked with everything we needed. Never had a bad meal, so much wonderful fresh food. This was my 6th tour with Caravan. Loved every day. Celebrated my 75th birthday with friends, will have memories that will last a lifetime. Caravan, you have your company together!" Mrs. V.S., Selma, California

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Trip planning.

A Review Of G Adventures’ Costa Rica 16-Day Tour

Written by BELLA FALK

G Adventures Review: a three-toed sloth spotted on our Costa Rica Adventure tour

Contents (click to view)

I’m rocking in a hammock in my hotel in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, on the penultimate day of my 16-day tour of Costa Rica with G Adventures . There’s a light rain pattering on the corrugated plastic roof and dripping fatly over the top of a leaky gutter, and a breeze is tickling the leaves of the plants in the courtyard garden.

I can hear chatter and the occasional laugh from one of the other rooms, where some of the girls from my group are hanging out, and just to my left the black-and-white hotel cat snoozes under a rattan garden chair. We have an hour till we meet for dinner, so what better time to start writing my G Adventures review than right now?

Ziplining is just one of the adventures you can do on a G Adventures Costa Rica tour

During my years of solo travel, I’ve done quite a few small group adventure holidays. From Tanzania to Cuba (also with G Adventures), and from Myanmar to Morocco , I’ve experienced a range of different companies, destinations, and group dynamics, so I’m pretty clued up on what works and what doesn’t, what companies should be aiming for and what makes a good (or bad) group tour.

So if you’re thinking of visiting Costa Rica with G Adventures, or doing any of their other group holidays, read on for my expert review of G Adventures in general and their Costa Rica tour in particular.

Note: I travelled in the off-peak (rainy season) month of July and received an additional 10% discount on top of the 20% off they were already offering for last-minute bookings. I’ve never been asked to write any G Adventures reviews in exchange for discounts or freebies. All prices are given in US Dollars and are correct at the time of writing.

A Review Of G Adventures' Costa Rica 16-Day Tour

Why Costa Rica?

If you’re reading this review, chances are you’ve already decided you want to go to Costa Rica, and you probably already know that Costa Rica is considered one of the safest and most rewarding countries to visit in Central America. With abundant wildlife, from curious toucans and noisy macaws to mischievous monkeys and the lovable sloth, Costa Rica is a nature enthusiast’s dream.

And that’s just the start of the country’s attractions. There are also stunning landscapes to explore, volcanoes to hike, coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean with miles of palm-fringed sandy beaches, huge swathes of jungle where you can do adventure activities like zip-lining and white-water rafting , plus buzzing towns with colourful bars, restaurants and shops.

So if you’re here because you’re wondering if you should go to Costa Rica, then no need to read further. The answer is yes, you should!

A stunning purple and pink sunset over the Pacific Ocean in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Why take a group tour?

Of course, you don’t need to do a group tour. Plenty of people get around Costa Rica just fine using public buses, tourist shuttles, or by hiring a car.

However, for solo travellers, those who like the safety and community vibe of a group, or people who don’t want or have time to plan every detail of a trip, a group tour is a great option.

For me, group travel is an excellent way to pack in as many highlights as possible in a short amount of time. Tour companies like G Adventures do all the work so you don’t have to, planning the best routes and activities so you can make the most of your holiday without having to spend days researching hotels and reading travel blogs (though of course you should still read this one!).

What’s more, not only do you get a gang of like-minded travel buddies to hang out with, you also get an experienced guide, who’ll show you round, shower you with interesting information, and look after you should anything go wrong.

If you’d like to know more about why I think group tours are one of the best ways to travel, head to my separate blog post: 10 Great Reasons To Do Group Holidays .

G Adventures reviews: Our guide and some of the group admiring the landscape in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

What you get on a G Adventures Tour

The specifics of each tour will vary, but all G Adventures tours follow a similar format.

The duration can be anything from a few days to several weeks, and you’ll be travelling with a group of up to 16 people, who could be families, couples or solo travellers. Typically G Adventures customers are in their 20s-50s, but you might get a few older people or families travelling with kids as young as 12.
The price of your ticket will include all your transport and accommodation for the duration of the tour, apart from airport transfers. If you’re a solo traveller, you’ll be expected to share a room with another solo traveller of the same gender, though if you want your own room, you can usually pay an additional fee to get one.
The cost also includes the guide, or Chief Experience Officer (CEO) – he or she will be your tour guide, event planner, history and politics teacher, fixer, problem solver and friend for the next few days or weeks.
Meals are not normally included , though a few breakfasts or dinners may be, depending on the itinerary.
Some activities may be included, but in general G Adventures make most of their day trips and excursions optional, to give people more choice and to keep the price down. It’s important to check this as you may find that adding on activities can significantly increase the final cost of your holiday, but if you don’t participate, you may start to feel left out of the group.

I’ll talk about how much the whole G Adventures Costa Rica trip cost me at the end of this post.

Bikes on the beach in Costa Rica: A bike ride was one of the activities included in our G Adventures Costa Rica trip

Every trip also usually includes the following:

‘Discover’ Moment – there is always at least one included activity, usually something simple such as a walking tour or cultural experience. You may have to pay a little extra for transport to the location.
‘G for Good’ Moment – as part of G Adventures’ commitment to giving back to local communities, 5% of your ticket price goes to help grassroots projects in the country you’re visiting, and this is your chance to see one of them in action.
Foodie Moment – a food tour, tasting event, or local cookery experience.

Touring a coffee co-operative on our G Adventures Costa Rica trip

Types of G Adventures Tour

G Adventures also have different types of tour. They are:

Classic tours – the original style of G Adventures tours, these trips include a variety of different activities but are not especially challenging. Accommodation is normally in mid-range hotels.
National Geographic Journeys – more expensive (but with more activities included), these trips focus more on culture and wildlife and may go a little more off the beaten track.
18-to-thirtysomethings tours – does what it says on the tin: adventures for younger travellers. They tend to be a bit more budget, the accommodation a bit more basic, and with more time for partying.
Wellness trips – as the name suggests, these trips are more focussed on health and wellbeing.
Active trips – tours for the more adventurous, with a greater focus on activities like hiking, cycling and other outdoor sports.
Marine tours – boat based, including sailing, river and polar expedition cruises .
Rail tours – while other G Adventures trips may include a train journey, these tours put train travel front and centre of the itinerary.
Family trips – aimed at parents who still want to travel and have adventures, but want to bring the kids.
Roamies trips – these are more for backpackers and the accommodation is mostly in hostels.
The Jane Goodall collection – wildlife tours

The G Adventures Costa Rica adventure is one of their Classic Tours, meaning you get a good balance of activities while still travelling in relative comfort.

You can read more about the different types of tours here .

Jungle cabins at Pozo Azul in Sarapiquí, Costa Rica

G Adventures Review: The Costa Rica Itinerary

So what did the Costa Rica 16-day adventure actually involve?

You can see the planned itinerary here , but sometimes things can change a little due to unforeseen circumstances, so here is what we actually did.

Costa Rica Tour Day 1 – Arrive in San José

The first day of any G Adventures tour is a free day for your arrival – you just need to get yourself to the first hotel at some point on that day. I had already been in Costa Rica for a week, so I booked myself a tourist shuttle from my hostel in the beachside town of Tamarindo to the group hotel in San Jose. Most people flew in that day and got transfers from the airport, which cost about US$35 (though an Uber is much cheaper, at around $10).

At 6.30 pm there was a welcome meeting – a chance to meet the guide/CEO, get a bit of basic information about Costa Rica and the tour, and check out your new travel buddies. After the meeting, everyone went for dinner together and then had an early night, ready to leave San Jose early the next morning.

Some people had arrived a day or two earlier to explore San José. The feedback I’ve had from people who’ve spent time in the city is that there’s not that much to see, so if you want to extend your Costa Rica trip by a few days, I strongly recommend getting out of San José and heading to the beach or the highlands instead.

Where we stayed: Boutique Hotel Casa Las Orquideas . This was a clean but fairly basic hotel on a main road on the edge of central San José. It was conveniently located a short walk from a supermarket, a Starbucks and some bars and restaurants, so it was ideal as a rendezvous point at the start and end of the trip, but I wouldn’t recommend it for longer stays.

G Adventures review: San Jose, Costa Rica

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 2 – San José to Quepos

Next day we left at 7 am and drove a few hours to Quepos, the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park. En route, we stopped off at the Tarcoles river crossing to look for crocodiles.

Quepos is a small town on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. The town itself has a beachfront and a few shops, hotels, bars and restaurants, but the main reason to go there is to use it as a base for visiting Manuel Antonio National Park, about 20 minutes away by local bus.

A crocodile basks on the riverbank at the Tarcoles river, Costa Rica

After dropping our stuff at the hotel, we headed over there to get our bearings. At Manuel Antonio there’s another, prettier beach, plus more touristy restaurants, a few shops, and the entrance to the park. We had free time to swim, relax, grab a frozen daiquiri, and look for monkeys playing in the trees by the side of the road. There are also options to do a sunset catamaran cruise, take a surfing lesson, or go parasailing.

Where we stayed: Villa Romantica Quepos. Another reasonable but basic hotel, with air-conditioned rooms set around a jungle garden where we saw frogs and monkeys. The German owner was extremely welcoming after being closed due to Covid. Unfortunately, the swimming pool was still out of action.

G Adventures reviews: Manuel Antonio beach, Costa Rica

Costa Rica Tour Day 3 – Quepos / Manuel Antonio National Park

In the official itinerary this is listed as a ‘free day to explore and relax’. In the morning some of our group opted to do a catamaran cruise along the coast to enjoy the scenery and look for dolphins. The rest of us had wanted to make an early start in the National Park but as it was a bank holiday weekend, morning tickets were sold out. Instead, we had more free time (some people went for brunch in Quepos and I found my way to a gym), and then at lunchtime we hopped back on the public bus to the Manuel Antonio.

Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s smallest National Park, with clearly marked trails for hiking or bird and animal watching. With the help of our guide, Tito, we got our first taste of Costa Rican wildlife – spotting two sloths, deer, iguanas, bats and lizards, before heading down to one of the pristine protected National Park beaches to dip our toes in the warm waters of the Pacific.

I would have liked to spend more time here, but the park closed at 4 pm. If you do this tour, I recommend going to in the morning if you can.

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 4 – Quepos to Monteverde

After two nights by the sea, we headed into Costa Rica’s central highlands, to the mountain town of Monteverde. Monteverde is another small, quite touristy place, the gateway to Costa Rica’s cloud forests and several parks offering hiking, animal-watching, and adventure activities.

In the afternoon we visited the Monteverde cloud forest reserve and spent about two hours hiking through the damp jungle. Sadly the ‘cloud’ forest lived up to its name and we weren’t able to see any views, but we did spot this gorgeous quetzal bird waiting out the rain.

A beautiful resplendent quetzal spotted in Monteverde cloud forest

Later we did our included ‘Discover’ moment – a torchlit guided Guided Cloud Forest Night Walk. We saw frogs, a green viper, a sleeping howler monkey, a tarantula, and even a sloth, though it was very high up in a tree and hard to see.

Where we stayed: Hotel Holistico Monteverde . A quiet retreat hotel with comfortable rooms and decent breakfast. The hotel was nice but located about 25 minutes’ walk outside the town centre up a steep hill, making it a bit of a hassle if you wanted to explore by yourself.

Exploring the Monteverde cloud forest on the G Adventures Costa Rica tour

G Adventures Review Day 5 – Monteverde

Day 5 is a full day in Monteverde, during which you have a choice of many things do including more hiking and wildlife-spotting, walking suspension bridges through the jungle, visiting a butterfly garden, horseback riding, or zip-lining.

Our entire group opted to do the canopy bridge walk followed by the ziplining. We went to 100% Aventura who have a series of ziplines through the cloud forest, including the longest zipline in Costa Rica at over 1.5 km! You can choose to do it on your front, flying superman-style, which literally took my breath away!

You can pre-book the ziplining as part of G Adventures’ Costa Rica Adrenaline Bundle which saves you a bit of money. There’s more information about how much this all cost coming up later in the post.

One of our group getting ready to do Costa Rica's longest zipline - superman style!

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 6 – Monteverde to La Fortuna

It was time to move on again, this time to La Fortuna, close to lake Arenal and the majestic Arenal volcano. The journey was about three hours by bus and then a very pleasant hour spent crossing Lake Arenal, with the volcano looming ever closer.

La Fortuna is another touristy town with plenty of restaurants, shops, and tour agencies, so after our fairly long travel day we had free time to relax and explore before heading for dinner.

Where we stayed: Hotel Las Colinas . Rooms here were clean and comfortable with working air-con, hot showers and views of the volcano. The hotel has a terrace bar which could get quite noisy, but calmed down after 10 pm.

On the boat to La Fortuna with amazing views of Arenal volcano on the G Adventures Costa Rica tour

G Adventures Review Day 7 – La Fortuna

The next two days were devoted to adventures around La Fortuna . There are dozens of different tours you can book, from whitewater rafting, waterfall rappelling, mountain biking and ATV excursions to calmer activities like hiking, boat trips or SUP on the lake, or a visit to the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge.

On the morning of Day 7 most of the group opted to go canyoning and waterfall rappelling, and in the afternoon we went to see Arenal volcano. It’s active so you can’t climb it, but there are several scenic hiking trails around the base where you can learn more about it and see lava from previous eruptions.

On the way back we stopped at the Paradise Hot Springs which was one of my favourite places on the trip: a gorgeous resort with eight thermal pools in a leafy jungle setting. At night they were lit up in different colours and one of the pools has a swim up bar, making for a fabulous place to relax after another busy day.

Bathers enjoying the warm waters and swim up bar at Paradise Hot Springs in La Fortuna Costa Rica

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 8 – La Fortuna

Another day in La Fortuna: we were offered the chance to book more adventure excursions through a recommended adventure tour company, but everyone decided to have a more chilled day, visiting the La Fortuna waterfall for a swim and then taking the afternoon off to enjoy the town’s many cafes, shops and bars, or getting a massage.

I had a quiet lunch in an organic restaurant, ate gelato, and browsed for souvenirs.

G Adventures review: Admiring the views at La Fortuna waterfall in Costa Rica

Costa Rica Tour Day 9 – La Fortuna to Sarapiquí Rainforest

Another travel morning – several hours by bus heading east from La Fortuna to Sarapiquí.

En route, we stopped at the Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative for our ‘G For Good’ moment, visiting one of the local organisations supported by the G Adventures and the Planeterra Foundation. We had a tour of the site, learned about how Costa Rican coffee is produced and why it’s considered some of the best in the world, and ate a delicious Costa Rican lunch of fresh fish with rice, beans and plantain.

Taking a dip in a waterfall at Sarapiquí Costa Rica

Once we arrived at Sarapiquí we headed straight out for a short hike to another waterfall where we were able to swim in the cool water and relax after another sweaty bus journey.

Later the hotel staff took us on a short night walk to see tree frogs, and then fed us a traditional dinner.

Where we stayed: Pozo Azul. This was one of my favourite places that we stayed on the trip: very rustic safari tents with no air con or hot water, but what they lacked in luxury they more than made up for in the location, right in the heart of the rainforest so we fell asleep listening to the rain and the sounds of frogs and crickets chirruping.

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 10 – Sarapiquí Rainforest

Some of us got up before dawn to do a sunrise birdwatching hike around the property, where we saw hummingbirds, toucans and a colourful trogon, before heading back for a delicious included breakfast (I especially loved the sweet fried plantains).

Then it was time for more adventure: whitewater rafting on the Sarapiquí river. The rapids here are Grades 2-4, so not too scary but still exciting enough to give you a thrill and get you pretty wet!

In the afternoon we had more free time to relax in our jungle oasis, and we also had our included ‘Foodie Moment’ – learning how to make traditional empanadas (and then eating them!).

Rafting was another adventure we did on the G Adventures Costa Rica 2-week tour

G Adventures Tour Day 11 – Sarapiquí to Tortuguero

Time to move on again on our whistlestop tour of Costa Rica – this time to Tortuguero, on the Caribbean coast.

Tortuguero is a unique village: a small cluster of shops, simple houses and bars built on a very narrow strip of land between the Tortuguero River and the Caribbean Sea. It’s only accessible by boat and feels like the sort of place you need to visit soon before rising sea levels wash it away completely.

Getting there was another adventure – a few hours on the bus and then an hour’s boat ride downriver, looking out for wildlife as we chugged along between overhanging jungle fronds guarded by beady-eyed herons and noisy howler monkeys.

Travelling to Tortuguero along the river on a G Adventures tour in Costa Rica

Tortuguero gets its name from the green and leatherback sea turtles (tortugas) that come here to nest on the beaches, and as we were lucky enough to visit at the start of nesting season, late in the evening we had the chance to go and see them.

The experience is closely regulated: visitor numbers and time spent on the beach are strictly limited and you can’t take phones or cameras, but it’s still a unique chance to see these rare endangered creatures up close.

Where we stayed: La Baula Lodge . Another of my favourites, a riverfront lodge featuring comfortable rooms (though without air con) arranged around a gorgeous garden filled with colourful flowers, with monkeys and toucans playing in the trees and a small pool for cooling off after the sweaty day. Breakfast and dinner were included.

A walk along the beach at Tortuguero, Costa Rica

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 12 – Tortuguero

A full day to explore the delights of Tortuguero National Park. In the morning we did a peaceful kayak excursion downriver, paddling gently along spotting monkeys, herons, bright green basilisks and other birds.

In the afternoon we were supposed to hike up to a viewpoint to look for more wildlife and admire the landscape, but the heavens opened and it was cancelled, so we hung out in the hotel, relaxed to the sound of the rain, and enjoyed the 2-for-$10 cocktail deal!

Read more: Nature Vacations: 25 Amazing Places For An Outdoors Adventure

G Adventures Review Day 13 – Tortuguero to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

I would have liked to spend a bit longer wildlife-spotting in Tortuguero but it was time to move on again, back along the river by boat and then a few hours by bus down the coast to Puerto Viejo.

Puerto Viejo is one of Costa Rica’s popular Caribbean beach villages, a small, friendly, walkable place with a few streets jammed with cafes, bars and souvenir shops, a sandy, palm-fringed beach, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe.

The plan for the afternoon was to relax on the beach, but again the weather was not on our side (the perils of travelling in rainy season!) so people either relaxed in the hotel or went to find a bar to hang out in.

Where we stayed: Cabinas Jacaranda Hotel . Located just a short walk from the beach and shops, this cute hotel had comfortable rooms with air-con and hot showers arranged around a leafy courtyard with hammocks for relaxing in.

The beach at Puerto Viejo looking moody on a rainy afternoon in Costa Rica

Costa Rica Tour Day 14 – Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is known for its miles of sandy beaches, some black, some white, so in the morning we were given bicycles so we could explore. Most people cycled along the main road to a quiet and pretty beach where we relaxed and enjoyed a dip in the Caribbean before heading back to the town to explore the shops and buy all those important last-minute souvenirs and gifts.

Another one of Puerto Viejo's idyllic beaches

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 15 – Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to San José

And before we knew it, it was the last full day of the tour. We had a lazy morning, a relaxed breakfast, the chance for another quick dip in the sea, and then an 11 am start for the long drive back to San Jose.

We got back at about 5 pm, giving us enough time to grab a coffee, pack for the plane, or pick up essentials for the journey home, before heading out for a final group dinner to say goodbye.

One last chance to spot wildlife on our G Adventures Costa Rica tour: the restaurant where we stopped for lunch had a bird feeder in the garden

G Adventures Costa Rica Tour Day 16 – Departure

The final day of any G Adventures tour is just departure day. Some people had early flights, others were staying on in Costa Rica for a few days, and my flight was at lunchtime so I had breakfast, said goodbye to the group and our excellent guide, and then hopped in an Uber to the airport for my journey back to London.

Beach and palm trees in Manuel Antonio National Park Costa Rica

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G Adventures Review: The Guide (CEO)

G Adventures call their tour guides CEOs – or Chief Experience Officers. Ours was Tito, a 45-year-old Costa Rican with 20 years of guiding experience, boundless enthusiasm and energy and endless patience when it came to our many questions.

He was extremely knowledgeable too, full of information sometimes to the point of excess, like when he would continually point at things from the bus even when we were trying to sleep, or being so thorough at the evening briefings that we would start to get confused from the information overload. But he was always likeable and smiling, ready with a joke or a few words of encouragement, a man who clearly loves his job and his country and enjoys sharing it with visitors.

Of course there’s no guarantee you’ll get Tito if you do the Costa Rica G Adventures tour, but in my experience of group travel in general and G Adventures in particular, I’ve found all the guides to be of a similar level of enthusiasm and knowledge that really helps to bring the tour to life.

A G Adventures guide points something out from a boat in Tortuguero National Park Costa Rica

G Adventures Review: The Food

Costa Rican typical food usually involves rice, beans, fried plantain, and some sort of grilled or fried protein, alongside Mexican-style dishes like tacos and burritos and deliciously sweet local pineapples, mangos and bananas.

Mostly you’ll be eating in touristy restaurants which typically serve up crowd-pleasers like pizza, pasta, or burgers.

Food and drink were not usually included in our Costa Rica tour. The exceptions were a couple of the hotels that provided breakfast, or the remote jungle lodges where there were no restaurants nearby, so dinner was also part of the service. In total only 4 breakfasts, lunches and dinners were included.

Typical Costa Rican 'casado' with fish, rice, beans, plantain and salad.

When choosing restaurants for us to visit, Tito always tried to pick a mid-range place where there were enough options to suit all tastes – though the vegetarians in our group did struggle a little.

Invariably we ended up in very average places that always offered the same food, most of which was fine and some of which was terrible, though there were a few excellent meals tucked in there too.

That, unfortunately, is one of the downsides of traveling with a group where everyone has different price points and expectations around food. Let’s just say this is not a foodie tour, and if culinary adventures are a priority for you, you might want to research your own restaurant options online and not eat with the group every night.

Delicious vegan quinoa burger and wedges in La Fortuna

G Adventures Review: Accommodation

The Costa Rica Adventure is one of G Adventures Classic trips, which means travelling in a little more comfort than some of their more basic tours, while still sticking to a budget.

Hotels in general were clean and comfortable but basic. We usually had wifi, air-conditioning and hot water, but not always. Sometimes the rooms were quite small and dark, and only one of the hotels had a swimming pool.

This is not a luxury trip – the focus is much more on adventure and seeing this wonderful country on a fairly limited budget. So if room service and a pillow menu are important, this probably isn’t the trip for you.

But if like me you’re not planning to spend much time in the room anyway, and you don’t much care about the accommodation as long as you have a clean bed and a shower, then you’ve come to the right place!

My room at La Baula Lodge in Tortuguero, Costa Rica

G Adventures Review: Transport

Transport for our tour was in an air-conditioned private bus, with the occasional public bus, taxi or boat ride. Unlike other tours I’ve done, we didn’t always have the same bus and driver; instead we used local companies and drivers where necessary, so the buses varied in size and comfort but they were always big enough and had air-conditioning. Very occasionally we had to share with other travellers but usually we had the transport to ourselves.

We were told that pre-pandemic more of the journeys involved using public transport, but that switched to private buses due to Covid. By the time you travel, this may have changed back, so it’s worth checking if this is important to you.

None of the buses had toilets, but we made regular bathroom stops. The longest bus ride was about 5 hours and I usually passed the time by listening to music, reading a book, or watching Netflix downloads on my phone. Some of the roads are windy, so make sure you bring travel sickness pills if you’re a sufferer.

Private bus transportation on our G Adventures tour in Costa Rica

G Adventures Review: The group

G Adventures market themselves to a wide range of travellers from teenagers all the way up to pensioners. As long as you have a love of travel and a sense of adventure, then G Adventures is for you.

However, in general I have found most of my fellow travellers on these sorts of trips to be in their 20s to 50s. The maximum group size is 16, and at the moment most of their tours seem to be operating at near capacity.

We had 14 in our group, consisting of two middle-aged couples with children in their late teens; one middle-aged single man, and five solo women in their 20s and 30s. Plus me.

Our group enjoying the boat ride across Lake Arenal on the G Adventures Costa Rica trip

I found this was a good mix of ages and interests, and while people did tend to make friends and form little sub-groups, overall we got along well. Our guide told us that sometimes he’s had tours where people split off or seriously clash, but we had no problems.

Of course you can’t predict who you will get, but I think G Adventures does tend to attract the same sort of adventurous, outgoing people, so even if you don’t bond with everyone, you stand a good chance of at least finding a few people in your group that you get along with.

Our G Adventures Costa Rica group just before going ziplining

G Adventures Review: Sustainability and ethics

More than ever we need to be thinking about the ethics and sustainability of our travel choices. So if that’s important to you (and I hope it is), you’ll be pleased to hear that G Adventures take it seriously too.

All G Adventures trips have a focus on community tourism. That means making sure that all trips directly benefit the people and places they visit. This includes working with the Planeterra Foundation to help develop local communities, and 5% of your trip fee goes to the foundation.

All trips now also have a ‘Ripple Score’, which is a measure out of 100 of how often the trip uses local businesses and services. The Ripple Score for the Costa Rica Adventure is 100, meaning you can be confident your money is helping to support small businesses in the communities you’re visiting.

There’s loads more information about the different ways G Adventures take their ethical responsibilities seriously on their website here .

Night time nature walk in Monteverde, Costa Rica, on a G Adventures trip

G Adventures Costa Rica Adventure: How much did it cost?

So after all that, what was the final cost of the trip?

The list price for this tour at the time of writing is £1279 in off-peak season and £1429 in peak season. However G Adventures quite often do discounts of up to 20%, so if you travel in rainy season (as I did) and book during a discount window you could pay as little as £1087.

This price does not include flights, most meals, or most of the activities.

Activities like this hanging bridge walk cost extra on the G Adventures Costa Rica tour

You can make savings on some activities by pre-booking, for example:

Catamaran tour in Manuel Antonio – in advance for $75
Adrenaline Bundle (includes canyoning in La Fortuna and zip-lining in Monteverde): $135. If you pay separately during the tour the price would be $96 + $54 = $150.

Other optional extra costs were as follows (all prices in US$ and sometimes estimated or rounded to the nearest $10):

Some of the activities on offer in La Fortuna on Costa Rica adventure tours

Add all this up and what it means is that if you do all the activities, eat every meal in the restaurants recommended by the guide, drink the tap water and only do laundry once, you’re looking at roughly an extra $1260 on top of the baseline cost of the trip.

So your total for the whole trip, not including flights, will be somewhere around $2900 or £2300 per person, assuming you travel in off-peak season and are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller (if not, you’ll pay around $680 / £570 extra to have your own room).

When is the best time to do the G Adventures Costa Rica tour?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, November to March. However, this is also peak season and everything will be more expensive. I visited in rainy season and although it did rain a fair bit and a couple of things did get cancelled, we also had some good weather and managed to do almost everything as planned on the itinerary.

If you visit during rainy season, you will save money but you will also have to be prepared to put up with some bad weather. So if money is not an issue, I recommend paying a bit more and travelling during the UK/US winter (when you’ll also get to escape the cold back home!)

Beach at Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, with grey moody skies during rainy season on our G Adventures Costa Rica adventure

G Adventures Review: My verdict

Before I joined the tour, I spent a week in Costa Rica by myself. During that week, I spent about $630 on private rooms in mid-range hotels, and $100 on transport. So $730 just for transport and accommodation in a single week, travelling by myself.

On that basis, the G Adventures Costa Rica tour is very good value. For less money than I would have spent travelling by myself, I got my whole trip organised for me, all my accommodation, an expert guide, some meals and activities, and a group of like-minded people to hang out with.

It did cost a lot more to do all the activities, but Costa Rica is not a cheap destination, and the activities we did do were varied, exciting, well-managed, and worth paying for.

Ziplining in Monteverde on the G Adventures Costa Rica tour

Cost aside, I thought this was an excellent tour. It was well planned, with a good balance between activities and free time. There was an excellent choice of activities and a good balance between wildlife spotting and hiking and other adventure sports.

Bus journeys were no longer than about four hours each and we always spent at least two nights in each destination, so while the itinerary did feel packed, we weren’t overwhelmed and rushed.

While group travel may not be for everyone , I do think that if you want to explore Costa Rica with the comfort and safety of a group and the convenience of having your trip planned for you, then the G Adventures Costa Rica Adventure Tour could be just the thing you’re looking for.

But don’t just take my word for it! Click here and then scroll down to read hundreds more reviews from previous customers.

The author on a hanging bridge in the rainforest in Costa Rica

Convinced? You won’t regret it!

Where to next?

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Centering yourself on a surfboard or yoga mat, descending into bat-filled caves or ascending misty volcanic peaks – relax and enjoy the ride of Costa Rica.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA-MARCH 3, 2015: The National Theater in Costa Rica first opened to the public in 1897. It remains a top tourist destination today.; Shutterstock ID 265490903; Your name (First / Last): Lauren Gillmore; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online-Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: 65050/ Online Design /LaurenGillmore/POI

Teatro Nacional

On the southern side of the Plaza de la Cultura resides the Teatro Nacional, San José’s most revered building. Constructed in 1897, it features a columned…

Iguana in Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio & Around

Featuring lush jungle, picture-perfect beaches and craggy headlands, this tiny park (1680 acres/680 hectares) absolutely brims with wildlife (and often…

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Costa Rica, Limon Province, Caribbean coast, Gandoca-Manzanillo national wildlife refuge, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Playa Punta Uva beach

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Off a dirt road marked by Punta Uva Dive Center is a quiet, idyllic cove that could double for a scene in the film The Beach. When the water is calm, it…

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Around 500km southwest of the Costa Rica mainland, Isla del Coco is a natural wonder that teems with wildlife, including the largest schools of hammerhead…

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From 1968 until 2010, Volcán Arenal was an ever-active and awe-striking natural wonder, producing menacing ash columns, massive explosions and streams of…

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The world-class Wilson Botanical Garden is internationally known for its collection of more than 2000 native Costa Rican species. Species threatened with…

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Las Baulas national marine park encompasses the entire beach at Playa Grande, as well as the adjacent land and 220 sq km of ocean. This is one of the…

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Caribbean Coast

This misty, green coastal park sits on a broad floodplain parted by a jigsaw of canals. Referred to as the ‘mini-Amazon,’ Parque Nacional Tortuguero is a…

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Olive ridley sea turtle on the sand in Ostional Nacional Wildlife Refuge.

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This 85 sq km coastal refuge extends from Punta India in the north to Playa Guiones in the south, and includes the beaches of Nosara and Ostional. It was…

Pacuare Lodge

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Best Things to Do

From water sports and mountain hikes to rainforest wildlife watching and cloud-forest birding, these are the best things to do in Costa Rica.

Things to Know

On a recent trip to Costa Rica, on a hike in the remote forests of Volcán Tenorio National Park, the sky unexpectedly opened up

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Find out the best way to get from A to B in Costa Rica, whether your budget and schedule stretches to bus, boat, rental car or airplane.

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Costa Rica is a stunning country that's beloved by travelers. Here's everything you need to know about its entry requirements before you go.

Money and Costs

There are plenty of ways for cost-conscious travelers to save some colones. Here are 10 top tips for traveling on a small budget in Costa Rica.

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Costa Rica literally translates to "rich coast,” and it’s easy to see how it got its name. In addition to world-class beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific, this peaceful paradise boasts some of the most bio-diverse ecosystems on Earth. In fact, scientists say five percent of the world's species are found here. For reference, the country is only as big as West Virginia.

The unparalleled wildlife watching includes encounters with slumbering sloths, majestic scarlet macaws, tree frogs as pretty as they are poisonous, and endangered nesting sea turtles. With dogged determination, they survive, symbiotically, in the shadow of some of the world's most active volcanoes.

Whether you want to hike in a cloud forest at 10,000 feet above sea level or you dream of riding horses on a white sand beach, it’s never been easier to reach the rich coast. There are nonstop flights to Costa Rica from more than a dozen U.S. cities. Come in winter; the country is one of the best places to visit in January . Or, plan a trip for the summer months when hotel rates drop as temperatures rise — treat yourself to a stay in one of Costa Rica's best hotels and resorts .

Top 5 Can’t Miss

Nayara Springs: Soak in your villa’s private plunge pool fed by mineral hot springs.
Zip lining: Feel the cloud forest come alive as you soar through the canopy.
National Parks: These 28 protected areas are Mother Nature at her finest.
Restaurant Silvestre: Taste an award-winning chef’s contemporary interpretation of Costa Rican cuisine.
Limón: Experience the country’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture.

W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal

With its audacious architecture and cheeky decor, W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal stands out on a coast filled with cookie cutter beach resorts. Rooms run the gamut from traditional queens with balconies and ocean views to treehouse suites with private plunge pools. The property has a spa, 18-hole golf course, beach club, adults' and kids' pools, and five restaurants.

Nayara Springs

This adults-only oasis was voted one of Central America’s best resort hotels by T+L readers. “From the moment you arrive you feel pampered,” Erica Linares, a Latin America specialist at Kensington Tours told Travel & Leisure. She’s a fan of the welcome drink, Costa Rica’s answer to the Bloody Mary. Meanwhile Emmanuel Burgio , a T+L Top Travel Advisor specializing in Central America, praises the private plunge pools.

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

Located four miles from San José's airport, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring the capital. That said, it feels a world away from all things urban thanks to its valley views and meticulously manicured gardens and outdoor spaces, including several pools and a coffee plantation.

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo

This family-friendly resort is one of Travel + Leisure' s top 500 hotels in the world . “It commands one of the best locations in Costa Rica and offers easy access to the country’s most beautiful beaches,” James Kaiser, author of “ Costa Rica: The Complete Guide ” told Travel & Leisure. His pro tip is to bring binoculars to spot the humpback whales migrating offshore in winter.

Lapa Rios Ecolodge & Wildlife Reserve

Also voted one of the best resorts in Central America by T+L readers, this luxurious ecolodge on the Osa Peninsula is the perfect place to immerse oneself in nature. In addition to proximity to wildlife, Burgio loves the waterfront location. “The bungalows boast terraces with ocean views and outdoor showers, and the shared outdoor pool overlooks the Pacific.”

National Parks

Between its diverse flora, fauna, and geothermal features, Costa Rica is a nature-lover's paradise . A quarter of the country is set aside for conservation, and there are 28 National Parks to choose from. “Plus, unlike Colombia or Brazil, you can visit multiple ecosystems in one day,” said Kaiser.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Between Costa Rica's 300 beaches there are waves for diehards, beginners, and everyone in between. One of the best places to practice is Tamarindo, where Iguana Surf's instructors are as passionate about teaching as they are pipelines. As you improve, try the Nicoya Peninsula. According to Linares, “It’s known for its powerful waves and the town of Santa Teresa has a very relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.”

Wellness is a way of life in Costa Rica – it's home to one of the world's five blue zones – so it seems sacrilegious to not get a spa treatment while in town. Vida Mía Healing Center & Spa sits atop a "high vibrational crystal mountain" and was named "Best Spa in the Americas."

Often considered to be the birthplace of ziplining, Costa Rica offers canopy tours almost everywhere there are trees. Hanging bridges are usually an option, too. At Selvatura Park in the Monteverde cloud forest, there are nearly two miles of treetop walkways.

The Pacuare Region

If you ask Burgio, one of the most under-the-radar experiences you can have is a private hike through the Talamanca Mountains with a guide from the indigenous Cabécar community. According to Burgio the Pacuare River is also the best place in Central America for whitewater rafting.

Restaurante Celajes (Organic)

With its insect hotel, working farm, coffee plantation, and sugar cane fields, Hotel Belmar takes farm-to-table to a whole new level. As a result, its pride and joy – Restaurant Celajes – is so well-respected diners drive from as far away as San José just for dinner.

Lidia’s Place (Caribbean)

According to Kaiser, the country’s best food is found on the Caribbean coast where “ the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture spices things up.” Lidia’s Place is where he goes for the best Caribbean chicken. A small, family-owned establishment, don’t be surprised if Lidia stops by to say hola.

Sano Banano (Healthy)

Translating to healthy banana, Sano Banano serves feel-good food – breakfast, lunch and dinner – in an open-air restaurant. Enjoy seating on the back patio or front porch overlooking Montezuma's lively main street and don’t miss the artisanal chocolates for sale by the cash register.

Don Rufino (Costa Rican)

Choose from prix-fixe menus, a la carte, or a five-course tasting tour at this Arenal landmark where Linares says the dishes are delicious and the ambiance is just as memorable. Grandma’s roasted chicken, served wrapped in banana leaves, has a cult-like following, so order it before it sells out.

Restaurante Silvestre (Experiential)

This San José institution is famous for its edible experiences derived from “unorthodox and avant-garde culinary techniques.” Since it’s deemed one of the best restaurants in Central America, reservations are a must. And because the chef-driven tasting menu knows no bounds, it’s not ideal for picky eaters.

The best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your goals. If you're looking to snorkel in clear Caribbean waters, opt for the dry season which on the Caribbean side, is mid-May through mid-December. Meanwhile, in the rest of the country, the dry season is the opposite. It runs from December to May. This is when everything is open and roads are passable. If you want to take advantage of low season rates and avoid crowds, visit during the wet season (which is marketed as the green season).

For the best cultural events , visit during January for Palmares (basically Carnival) or Easter week. As a Catholic country, many of Costa Rica's biggest holidays correspond with the Church's. Regardless of when you visit, you can always watch sea turtles nest and hatch, go zip lining (they do it rain or shine), and learn how to surf.

Related : The Ultimate Costa Rica Packing List

How to Get There

Costa Rica has two main airports: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. SJO is your best bet if you’re visiting Manuel Antonio, Limón, Arenal, or the Osa Peninsula. It also tends to have the cheapest flights. For trips to Guanacaste and Alajuela, you’ll probably want to fly into Liberia. Both airports offer rental cars.

Of course, it’s possible to fly into one airport and out of the other. And transferring between the two is easy thanks to public buses and shared shuttles. The trip takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic. Driving to Costa Rica is not recommended as you’ll have to pass through countries with civil unrest and border crossings can be complicated.

There are seven provinces in Costa Rica, and each has its own distinct vibe. Here are three we recommend starting with.

San José : The capital boasts the best souvenir shopping and has many cultural institutions including the Museum of Costa Rican Art, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and the National Museum of Costa Rica. It’s also where you’ll find the country’s best culinary offerings.

Alajuela : Alajuela is popular with adrenaline junkies as it’s home to Arenal Volcano National Park where you can zipline, hot springs hop, and hike in a cloud forest all in 24 hours. The province is also where you’ll find one of the world’s largest craters in Poas Volcano National Park (reservations required).

Limón : Limón is located on the Caribbean side and highlights include Tortuguero National Park and the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge. This province is also where you can experience the country’s incredible Afro-Caribbean culture . Approximately eight percent of Costa Ricans are of African descent.

Trains and Buses: Costa Rica is rebuilding its train infrastructure, damaged during the 1991 earthquake. For now, buses are the best public transportation. While most are privately owned, fares are low. For example, a four-hour ride might cost $10. "Directo" buses offer nonstop service. "Colectivos” stop pretty much everywhere.

Taxis and Shuttles: Costa Rica's official taxis are red or orange (the only cabs licensed for airport pickups) and all have a yellow triangle emblem. It's also easy to pre-book private car services or shuttles online.

Rideshare: Although it’s technically not legal, Uber has been operating in Costa Rica since 2015. However, it's limited to major cities and tourist hotspots. DiDi is also an option, but it’s also not that reliable in remote areas.

Car Rentals: Car rentals are cheap and plentiful, but keep in mind that most cars are manual, and Costa Rica’s roads don’t have the best reputation (during the wet season, many roads turn into rivers). Try to get a high-clearance SUV with AWD, and if you need extras like a roof rack for surfboards, carseat for kids, cell phone for navigation, or additional drivers, book with Vamos . It’s the only company that offers all of the above for no fee.

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Basic Costa Rica Tour with G Adventures – Review & My Experience

July 17, 2021

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

I was so fed up with my friends committing to travelling with me and then backing out at the last minute. So fed up, in fact, that I decided to just go and travel by myself!

This is how I first became a solo traveller, and I gotta admit, it was daunting! I knew I wanted to go to Costa Rica, but I just didn’t have the confidence at that point to go completely solo.

That’s when I came across the G Adventures Basic Costa Rica trip . It was the perfect way to dip my toe into solo travelling, without it being terrifying. Plus, with an epic itinerary that ticked every single one of my boxes, and really reasonable prices, I knew it was the perfect match.

I want to share my opinions and experiences with you in this review of the G Adventures Basic Costa Rica tour I took, because there was barely any information available from people who had been on the tour before I booked, and I would always prefer to hear from someone who has been there and done it!

I paid for the whole of this trip by myself. This review isn’t sponsored by G Adventures and all opinions are well and truly my own!

I had an incredible time in Costa Rica with G Adventures, and it was the trip that really got me obsessed with travel, and solo travel. It boosted my confidence beyond belief, and since my G Adventures Costa Rica tour, I travelled in Vietnam with them, before realising I had the confidence to travel to 10 other countries totally solo!

G Adventures Basic Costa Rica Tour review

Here’s what we’ll cover in this G Adventures Costa Rica review :

Reasons you should travel with G Adventures
The good and the not so good parts of travelling with G Adventures

Why I chose G Adventures

Accommodation
Group Sizes
Average Age on G Adventures Tours
What you’ll need to budget for on a G Adventures tour.
My experience.

Click Here to see the full Basic Costa Rica Itinerary with G Adventures

Table of Contents

G Adventures Review

Why should i travel with g adventures.

There are 1000 different reasons people travel on a group tour. For me, it was because I didn’t have the confidence to travel completely by myself at that point. I was also worried that I would get lonely if I travelled totally solo.

For others, it’s safety. If you’re heading to a country where you don’t speak the language, solo travel can feel pretty intimidating. Especially in countries like Costa Rica which, whilst not particularly dangerous, don’t have a great reputation for safety either.

I really appreciated that our guide knew where it was fine to walk alone at night and where we should take a taxi, and always gave us up to date safety advice.

I’m so glad I took a group tour in Costa Rica as it took all the overwhelming parts of taking my first big trip out of the picture. I didn’t have to do any research to create an itinerary, there were no worries about how to get from A to B, and I had a built-in group of friends to travel with!

Nowadays, whilst I have so much more confidence and love solo travel, you really can’t beat the convenience of a group tour. I work A LOT, and not having to spend like, 100 hours planning my trip is always appealing. If you’re short on free time, getting G Adventures to do all the planning and logistics is well worth the price.

What are the advantages of travelling with G Adventures?

Safety . Your knowledgeable guide will always make sure you keep safe and will let you know of any safety recommendations they would like to share for certain destinations. This kind of stuff can be hard to find without speaking to locals, so the guide’s knowledge can be invaluable.
Ready-made friends . You won’t need to worry about eating alone or spending every day by yourself, as G Adventures puts a lot of time into helping the group to bond. This includes group dinners, group nights out and also different tours for specific age groups, so you’re likely to meet travellers who have the same travel style as you.
Ideal for solo travellers . I was worried that I would be the only person on my tour who was travelling by myself. To my relief, about 85% of our tour group were solo travellers! This means you’ll never be the odd one out, and everybody is super open to making new friends. The tour also had a couple and a pair of friends on the tour too, who also were really open to making friends within the group. So there’s just no way you’ll feel isolated.
Convenience . With everything already booked and organised for you, the only thing you’ll have to arrange will be your flights. This takes so much headache and worrying off your trip planning, and will save you so much time. Trip planning can be a headache, and choosing your itinerary can take forever. G Adventures makes all of those decisions for you. It’s ideal if you want to relax on your trip, as all you’ll have to do is turn up at the time your tour leader tells you to and they’ll sort the rest. That mean no navigating unfamiliar bus stations trying to work out where you’re supposed to go!
Information . Guides for G Adventures are almost always locals themselves, and they love nothing more than teaching you about local culture, history and traditions! They’ll also be super familiar with the locations you visit and will have priceless information such as which tours are worth your time, where to find the best cocktails and will also take you to their favourite local hangouts. For example, our awesome tour guide told us not to bother paying for hot springs entry in Monteverde and instead took us to some free hot springs that only locals knew about!

What are the disadvantages of travelling with G Adventures?

There’s a risk with tour groups that you won’t really like anybody on the tour. This is rare, especially with G Adventures, who create separate tours for different age groups, so you’ll be surrounded by people who want to travel in the same style as you. I’d try not to worry about this. I met one of my best friends on the G Adventures Costa Rica trip, and we’ve since travelled to 3 other countries together! Even if you don’t make friends for life, it’ll still be better than travelling completely solo.
Whilst it’s great to have your itinerary planned out for you, the tour doesn’t offer any flexibility, for example if you fall in love with a spot and would prefer to spend a few extra days there. However, nothing is stopping you from returning once the tour ends or making another trip! For example, during my G Adventures Costa Rica tour a few people headed to Tamarindo once it had ended. I had never heard of Tamarindo, but now I really want to go! You’ve just got to accept that you’ll never be able to see an entire country in one trip.
Tours are not usually as cheap as going completely independently. That said, the Basic Costa Rica tour with G Adventures is really affordable and definitely good value for money. The amount of convenience it offers is more than worth the extra cost.

G Adventures’ biggest competitor is probably Intrepid Travel, who also offer group tours around the world. However, when it came to comparing the two for my trip to Costa Rica, G Adventures won the competition hands down. Here’s why:

G Adventures have 5 of 18-39 tours in Costa Rica, which was the type of tour I wanted to book onto since I was 19 at the time and wanted to travel with people my age. In comparison, Intrepid only have 2 – and both were far too long for me. I could only take two weeks off work, and Intrepid’s tours were 17 and 32 days, which were both too long for me.
G Adventures have a great cancellation policy. Most tour companies will keep your money if you back out from a tour. G Adventures, on the other hand, has a kick-ass cancellation policy that allows you to swap your trip dates, or swap your trip entirely for one of the same value. Check out their cancellation policy here .
You can secure your trip with just a small deposit, giving you more time to save up. This really was a game-changer for me, as at the time I just didn’t have the full amount ready to spend when I booked. You only have to pay 30% of the tour price on booking, and the balance is due a few weeks before the trip. If you cancel, or can’t pay for the rest of the trip, your deposit will be a Lifetime deposit. This means you can use that deposit money to book another tour, with no expiration date. G Adventures really do look after their customers! You can find out more about their lifetime deposit here .
G Adventures has a huge emphasis on responsible travel. To show this, they give every one of their tours a ‘ripple score’ based on how much they give back to the community. Most tours also include a ‘G for Good’ stop on the itinerary, where you’ll get the opportunity to volunteer or join a local charitable initiative for a few hours. To find out more about G Adventures’ approach to responsible travel, click here .

Click here to check out G Adventures’ current sale.

What to expect on a G Adventures Tour

G adventures accommodation..

This varies depending on the type of tour you book, but the tour description will always list the standard of accommodation on the trip. The accommodation on my Basic Costa Rica tour was, unsurprisingly, basic. This is because it’s a tour targeted at young, adventurous travellers, and G Adventures understand that hostel dorms are totally fine with that group as it means travellers will save money.

G Adventures usually plans for travellers to share rooms to keep the tour costs down. They’ll always keep you with other travellers of your gender, though, You can also usually opt to pay a single supplement if you don’t want to share a room.

G Adventures Food

Some meals are included on your G Adventures tour but the majority aren’t. It’s best to check the tour itinerary to find out what’s included. If you’re camping, more meals are normally included. In my basic Costa Rica tour, just one breakfast and one dinner were included. For this reason, food will be one of the main things you’ll need to budget for on your trip. G Adventures provides a recommendation of how much extra to budget for food, but I find you can get by with much less than they recommend.

G Adventure Activities

If you’re travelling on an 18-35 tour such as the Basic Costa Rica tour, chances are not many activities will be included in the tour price.

I actually like this approach, though, as it keeps the cost of the tour down and means you’re only paying for activities you actually want to do. It’s a good idea to look over the tour itinerary to find out which activities are included, and which are optional extras (although there are usually a few more on offer than what’s listed online).

Then, you’ll be able to work out how much you’ll need to budget for extra activities based on the ones you want to do.

Who else will be on my G Adventures tour?

G adventures group sizes.

I love that G Adventures keep their group sizes small so that you can get to know everybody. The maximum is usually 16.

There were 16 people on the tour I went on , but the average is probably more like 10. When we came across another group from a different company that had an unbelievable 40 people on the tour, I was really relieved we had such a small group!

Having a small group also means that you’re always able to speak to your tour guide one on one. This is so convenient as you can get their bespoke advice on what activities you want to do.

What Is the Average Age on a G Adventures Trip?

The average age of the group depends on what type of G Adventures trip you’re going on. If you’re on a classic tour , I’d say it’s probably 45 or so. But that’s just a guess, and varies every time!

On the G Adventures 18-35 tours, like the Basic Costa Rica tour, chances are you’ll have a good mixture of people of all ages within those brackets. The youngest person on my tour was 18, and the oldest was 33. Everybody was part of the group though, and I didn’t feel any divisions between people. I’d say the average age was 24 .

Regardless of how old you are, I’m sure you’ll find it really won’t be an issue for you. Everybody on the tour will be excited to travel and keen to make new friends, so you already have things in common to talk about!

Budgeting for a G Adventures Tour

The cost of your tour includes your accommodation, transport, and some food and activities. So it makes it easy to budget since you know you’ll only have to pay for food and drink and activities once you’re there. On the tour itinerary you’ll find a breakdown of the cost of all optional activities and also a suggestion for how much extra you should bring for food and drink.

It’s also worth noting that flights aren’t included, so you’ll have to factor that into your budget too. The flights can be even more expensive than the tour itself, so it’s worth looking up your journey on the G Adventures flight finder or Skyscanner before you book so you know how much you’ll need to budget.

You’ll also need to consider how much your pre-travel vaccinations will cost, and how much you’d like to spend on souvenirs. If your flight is arriving the day before the tour or departing the day after, you’ll also need to find extra accommodation.

Don’t forget travel insurance! With all the activities included on G Adventures tours you should definitely have it. I recommend World Nomads for Costa Rica as they’re great at covering adventure activities and are very affordable.

Click here to check out my comprehensive packing list of everything I took on the tour so you don’t forget anything!

Basic Costa Rica G Adventures Review

My Experience on the G Adventures Basic Costa Rica Tour

The G Adventures Basic Costa Rica trip starts in San Jose. I arrived late at night and the G Adventures airport transfer was there to pick me up and take me to the starting hostel. There had been a welcome dinner for people on the tour that night but, since I was arriving later, I unfortunately missed it! This didn’t end up being an issue though, as I wasn’t the only one arriving late and I got to meet everybody early the next morning.

Some people arrived in San Jose a few days early to do some sightseeing, but anybody who’s been to San Jose before will tell you there’s not much to do there, and there are a million nicer places to spend some extra time in Costa Rica.

Puerto Viejo

The next morning we caught a bus to the surf town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, on the Caribbean coast, and I instantly fell in love! We had a few days to explore the beach here, and our guide took us on a cycling tour to the nearby national park, which was an incredible day (and super cheap!)

From Puerto Viejo, we took another bus to La Fortuna, a lovely town right next to the Arenal volcano. From here, there were a ton of awesome activities, including hiking the Arenal Volcano and stand-up-paddleboarding on Lake Arenal. La Fortuna was far more touristy than Puerto Viejo, but it still had its own charm.

Next was into the cloud forest at Monteverde, where the air got suddenly cooler and the humidity gave us a welcome break! Although Monteverde is pretty small and sleepy, there are a ton of activities you can do in the nearby area. I joined a canopy zipline tour, went hiking at the hanging bridges , and went horseback riding for the first time in my life! It was a magical experience, and one of the highlights of my Costa Rica adventure.

The itinerary said we’d head to Santa Teresa next, but instead, we ended up in the small beachside town of Samara. I’m really glad we visited here, as the surf was amazing and I had a great time at our beachside hostel!

One of the best things to do in Samara is hanging out at the beach and taking surf lessons. Even if you’re not interested in surfing, there’s a ton of other activities in Samara that the guide will help you to arrange. To find out more about this awesome destination and how awesome it is, be sure to read my huge guide to Samara here!

Returning to San Jose

You’ll round off the trip with a bus journey back to San Jose, where you’ll enjoy a final group dinner before the majority of people fly out the following day.

If your tour is anything like mine, a few people will have stayed in Samara to catch the bus to Tamarindo. So, if you’re looking to extend your stay in Costa Rica after the Basic Costa Rica tour has finished, this seems to be a popular option!

Click here to check out the G Adventures Sale and browse the bargains!

So, what do I think of the Basic Costa Rica G Adventures tour?

If you haven’t already realised, I freaking loved the Basic Costa Rica trip with G Adventures, and I highly recommend it!

I was freaking out before I flew to Costa Rica, because I was just so, so nervous to travel by myself, but travelling in a group with G Adventures doesn’t actually feel like you’re ever travelling alone.

If you had any hesitations, I hope this review has calmed them – G Adventures are an awesome company, and this trip really is the trip of a lifetime!

Click Here to book your place on the Basic Costa Rica tour!

G Adventures is a travel company that run awesome guided tours all over the world, but I decided to book on their Basic Costa Rica tour, a group tour designed for 18-35 year olds looking to travel in Costa Rica on a budget. Here is my full Costa Rica G Adventures review, including whether or not their group tours are good for solo female travel. Costa Rica itinerary Costa Rica budget travel Costa Rica group tours

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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Great info! I’m about to book my 9 Day Natural Highlights of Costa Rica now with G Adventures. I noticed a TON of activities are listed on the full itinerary. But when I go to book, only 2 are offered to pre-book (neither one appeals to me). Will I be able to book the activities I saw on G Adventures itinerary once I arrive in Costa Rica? Will the CEO book these for us and accept US cash or Visa? I really want to do ziplining, hanging bridges, horseback riding…none of which were listed when I went to book the tour.

Hi Melissa – thanks for your lovely comment! That’s right, you’ll be able to book the optional activities with the CEO on the tour. Usually the CEO will go over all the optional tours for the day ahead and you just book whatever you like then and pay the CEO in cash! Let me know if you have any other questions!

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Costa Rica Sightseeing: 10 Must-Visit Places

Costa Rica is a traveler’s paradise, home to an incredible range of natural and cultural attractions. Majestic volcanoes, lush cloud forests, stunning beaches, abundant wildlife—it’s all there.

Whether you’re an adventurous explorer, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Costa Rica’s remarkable landscapes and intriguing heritage are sure to impress. If you’re planning a trip to the area, there are a few must-visit places for sightseeing in Costa Rica, from the captivating symmetry of the Arenal Volcano to the surreal blue waters of the Rio Celeste.

1. Arenal Volcano

The Arenal Volcano , one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks, is a must-see while in the area. It stands at approximately 5,353 feet or 1,633 meters, towering over the surrounding land as an imposing guard. This symmetrical volcano roared back to life after decades of dormancy in 2010, creating multiple new craters. However, since then, it’s been lying dormant, although it’s not uncommon to see columns of ash and lava flows.

Today, the volcano draws countless tourists to its slopes every year, many of whom come to witness the breathtaking views from hiking trails around it or soak in the hot springs heated by its geothermal activity.

If you’re in the area, it’s well worth a stop. And, if you’re up for a stroll, there are plenty of hikes in the area that give stunning views of the volcano. Or, if you prefer a relaxing approach to your vacations, stop for a soothing soak in the nearby hot springs (some even have great views of the volcano!).

2. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is another must-visit when in Costa Rica. It’s a perfect place for sightseers, especially if you’re up for a stroll through the reserve’s many trails. The forest, often shrouded in mist, offers an enthralling, almost mystical feel.

It’s teeming with dense vegetation and is home to all sorts of plants and animal species, including over 400 species of birds. Given its abundant bird population, Monteverde is a great spot for birdwatching.

We think it’s a great addition to a sightseeing itinerary, especially if you want to capture some magical pictures. The contrast of the mist filtering through the rich, green canopy makes for a striking photo. You can even get some Insta-worthy snapshots on the hanging bridge, which is surrounded by dense vegetation.

3. Manuel Antonio National Park

If you want to get a splash of everything in one stop, the Manuel Antonio National Park is a worthwhile stop. It’s home to dense rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. The park is situated on the central Pacific coast, and while it’s not as large as other national parks, it’s one of the most-visited parks in Costa Rica.

In the rainforest, you’ll find all sorts of accessible trails suitable for all fitness levels. The main trails are well-marked, providing easy access to the park’s beaches and viewpoints. For example, the trail to Punta Catedral is a top pick for its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean (this was one of our favorites).

While you stroll, keep an eye out for wildlife. The park is known for its remarkable biodiversity. You might see capuchin monkeys, iguanas, sloths, and all sorts of bird species in the greenery around the trails, so keep your eyes peeled!

Beyond the rainforest, you’ll find marvelous white-sand beaches flanked by stunning turquoise waters. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. We always appreciate a relaxing afternoon nap on the beach, and this park was the perfect setting for it.

Cartago, Costa Rica’s former capital, is a must-visit for history buffs. It boasts a rich history, home to some of the country’s most significant historical sites. For example, it’s home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Angels, a beautiful pilgrimage site with captivating Byzantine architecture. It stands as a testament to Cartago’s religious importance, both past and present.

In the surrounding area, you’ll find more must-see sights, such as the Irazu Volcano and the Orosi Valley. The Irazu Volcano is the highest volcano in Costa Rica, boasting a lunar-like landscape, complete with beautiful crater lakes. On clear days, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans from the summit.

The Orosi Valley offers a combination of colonial-era churches and lush green hills, perfect for scenic drives. It’s a picture-perfect spot, especially with the varied terrain blanketed in rich greens.

5. Tortuguero National Park

If you’re up for an adventure, take a trip to the Amazon of Costa Rica, Tortuguero National Park. It’s remote, and you can only access it by boat or plane, but it’s well worth visiting. It’s a network of canals, rivers, and lagoons, all flanked by dense rainforest.

It’s world-famous for its sea turtle nesting sites. Between July and October, green turtles make their way ashore to lay their eggs. If your timing is right and you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the turtles laying their eggs.

Beyond the turtles, Tortuguero is home to diverse wildlife, including jaguars, manatees, monkeys, and over 300 species of birds. If you want to observe the wildlife in their natural habitat, take a boat tour along the park’s waterways. It’s a great way to spot the creatures as they go about their daily business without bothering them.

6. Corcovado National Park

Located on the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park is another must-see. It’s another remote and wild park, covering a whopping 164 square miles of rainforest, mangroves, and beaches. It’s often described as one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

While there, you might spot all four of Costa Rica’s monkey species, plus tapirs, pumas, and scarlet macaws. Some animals are more elusive than others, so if you want the best chances of spotting them, a guided tour led by an experienced naturalist is your best bet. We’ve done a few of these tours and highly recommend them—they’re a great way to learn about the animals while improving your chances of actually seeing them.

The park is home to an extensive trail system, ranging from short walks to multi-day treks that span many miles. Each trail offers something different.

Uvita, a small town situated on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast, is known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It’s best known for the Whale’s Tail, a natural sandbar formation that looks a lot like a whale’s tail at low tide and is a perfect place for stunning photos.

It’s a great place to spend a day or two, especially if you appreciate the great outdoors. The town is part of Marino Ballena National Park, which safeguards marine habitats. If you visit between December and April or July and October, go on a whale-watching tour. The whales migrate during these times of year, so you’ll have a good chance of seeing them.

Aside from whale watching, Uvita is the perfect place for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. The crystal clear waters are easy to see in, so you can get a good view of the sea life below the surface while snorkeling or scuba diving.

Or, if you want to go exploring, meander to the nearby Uvita Waterfall, which offers both refreshing swimming and plenty of exploration opportunities in the surrounding rainforest.

8. The Rio Celeste

The Rio Celeste is well-visited for its strikingly blue waters. It’s located in the Tenorio Volcano National Park, situated at the top of a trail winding through lush rainforest. At the top of that trail, you’ll find waters that look absolutely unreal.

The striking blue hue is courtesy of a unique chemical reaction involving volcanic minerals, creating a body of water that looks almost otherworldly. While there’s a scientific explanation for the color, local legend has it that God dipped his paintbrush in its depths after painting the sky, causing the surreal hue.

The star of the show is the waterfall, which cascades into a pool below. While pictures don’t quite do the waterfall and river justice, it’s a great place for photos (you might even capture a few Insta-worthy shots).

9. Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, located on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, offers an intriguing blend of Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s a vibrant destination featuring colorful buildings and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

While the town and its melting pot of cultures are well worth the visit, the beaches in the area steal the spotlight. The town is surrounded by stunning beaches , including Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Punta Uva, each with its own charm. Each one boasts a pristine, sandy beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, surfing , or good ‘ol sunbathing.

10. Poas Volcano National Park

Last but not least, we have the Poas Volcano National Park. This park is home to one of Costa Rica’s most accessible and active volcanoes. The main crater has a bubbling sulfuric lake, complete with steam floating skyward. It’s an awe-inspiring, picture-worthy sight.

You can get a good look at the crater via the various trails around the crater, which offer good views of the surrounding area, too. If you want to learn more about the volcano and its eruptions, stop by the park’s visitor center, which provides educational exhibits teaching all about it.

Make the Most of Your Costa Rican Vacation With Caravan

Costa Rica is a haven of tranquility, offering a perfect blend of stunning sights and rich culture. It’s an excellent place for a vacation, whether you’re a nature enthusiast seeking an immersive experience or simply looking for a laid-back destination to unwind and rejuvenate. Costa Rica has something to offer for everyone, promising a serene and peaceful getaway.

Unfortunately, planning a vacation, especially one to a foreign country, can be daunting at best. That’s where our team at Caravan comes in. We offer fully guided sightseeing tours in Costa Rica that take you on a journey through the country’s wonders. Our Costa Rica Natural Paradise and Costa Rica & Manuel Antonio tours take you on an adventure through the natural beauty of the land, giving you an immersive, unforgettable vacation.

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The best things to do in Costa Rica: How to plan a memorable trip

Costa Rica is an absolutely beautiful country with stunning natural scenery, incredible biodiversity, and friendly people. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or just a chance to relax on the beach, “the rich coast” has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things you can do in Costa Rica.

Explore the rainforests and wildlife

Adventure activities, beach escapes, cultural experiences, wellness and relaxation, unique experiences, monteverde cloud forest reserve.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers. This forest is home to over 2,500 plant species , 400 bird species, and a wide array of mammals. The reserve offers various trails where you can hike and experience the greenery, exotic birds, and even spot animals like the jaguar. Guided night tours give you a unique opportunity to see nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park combines rainforest with beaches. It’s one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, offering a glimpse into the incredible wildlife of Costa Rica. The park is famous for its population of monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. Walking trails within the park lead to viewpoints and beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Zip-lining in Arenal

Adrenaline junkie? Zip-lining near the Arenal Volcano is an unforgettable experience. Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes, and its surrounding rainforest provides the perfect setting for zip-lining. As you soar above the treetops, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.

White water rafting on the Pacuare River

Costa Rica ’s rivers offer some of the best white-water rafting experiences in the world. The Pacuare River, in particular, is known for its challenging rapids and scenic beauty. Rafting down the Pacuare will take you through rainforests, past waterfalls, and alongside steep canyons. It’s an exhilarating way to experience the wild side of Costa Rica.

Tamarindo, located on the Pacific coast, is a vibrant beach town perfect for surfing and relaxation. With consistent waves, it’s a favorite spot for both novice and experienced surfers. Beyond surfing, Tamarindo offers a lively nightlife, excellent restaurants, and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and deep-sea fishing.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

On the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is known for its laid-back vibe, reggae music, and stunning beaches. Playa Cocles and Punta Uva are among the most beautiful beaches in the area, offering clear waters and golden sands. The town is also a great place to experience Afro-Caribbean culture and cuisine.

San José’s museums and markets

Costa Rica’s capital, San José, is a hub of culture and history. The National Museum, housed in a former military barracks, offers fascinating exhibits on Costa Rican history, archaeology, and culture. The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum showcases an impressive collection of gold artifacts. To experience local life, visit the bustling Mercado Central, where you can sample traditional foods, buy handmade crafts, and mingle with locals.

Coffee plantation tours

Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, and a tour of a coffee plantation is a great way to learn about the country’s coffee-making traditions. The Central Valley, particularly around the town of Alajuela, is home to many coffee farms. These tours typically include a walk through the coffee fields, a demonstration of the roasting process, and, of course, a tasting session. You’ll gain a deep appreciation for the art of coffee production and the hard work that goes into every cup.

Hot springs in La Fortuna

After a day of adventure, unwind in the natural hot springs of La Fortuna, near the Arenal Volcano. The geothermal activity in the area heats the waters, creating a range of hot springs where you can soak and relax. Many resorts in the area offer access to these hot springs, some featuring beautifully landscaped pools, waterfalls, and swim-up bars.

Yoga retreats in Nosara

Nosara, on the Nicoya Peninsula, is a wellness spot known for its yoga retreats. The town’s serene beaches and tranquil environment make it an ideal place for relaxation and meditation. Yoga studios and wellness centers offer a variety of retreats, combining yoga practice with healthy eating and holistic treatments. Nosara is also a great spot for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding, adding a touch of adventure to your wellness retreat.

Turtle nesting tours in Tortuguero

Tortuguero National Park, on the Caribbean coast, is a critical nesting site for several species of sea turtles. From July to October, you can join guided tours to witness the magical sight of turtles laying their eggs on the beach. The park’s network of canals and rivers also makes it a great place for boat tours, where you can spot manatees, caimans, and a variety of bird species.

Explore caves in Barra Honda National Park

Barra Honda National Park, in the Nicoya Peninsula, is famous for its limestone caves. A guided tour of the caves takes you deep underground to explore stunning stalactites and stalagmites formations. The park also offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great destination for both adventure and natural beauty.

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Looking pretty, Music City. Are you thinking about taking a trip to Nashville this year? Nashville offers a rich blend of culture, history, and entertainment that promises a memorable experience for every visitor. Whether you’re a music enthusiast looking to explore iconic venues or a foodie ready to dive into delicious Southern cuisine, Nashville has something for you. If you aren’t sure what to do in Nashville, TN, we’ve got you covered. Here are just a few of the best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee. Take a stroll down Lower Broadway

Lower Broadway consistently makes the list of the top things to do in Nashville. This vibrant stretch, often referred to simply as “Broadway,” is lined with honky-tonk bars, live music venues, and busy eateries that showcase the best of Nashville’s legendary music scene. Lower Broadway is not only the heart of Nashville’s nightlife but also a hub where famous musicians bring their flair to the local scene. Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar offers a mix of Southern cuisine and stunning rooftop views, while Blake Shelton’s Ole Red combines great food with live music. Indulge in some hot chicken

Are you thinking about planning a trip to Portugal? Known for its stunning coastline, charming cities, and delectable foods, Portugal is a popular year-round vacation destination. However, the best time to visit Portugal depends on what you are looking for. Whether you’re a budget traveler seeking the best deals, a beach lover chasing the sun, or an adventurer eager to immerse yourself in local festivals and events, timing your trip right can make all of the difference. From the hot temperatures of summer to the festive charm of winter, let’s discover the best time for you to head out on the perfect Portuguese adventure. The best time to visit for good weather

For travelers seeking the best weather, summer (June to August) is the ideal time to visit Portugal. This season boasts the warmest and sunniest days, with daytime temperatures often reaching the high 80sºF and minimal rainfall. This time is perfect for beach vacations, particularly in the Algarve region, where you’ll find crystal clear waters and golden sands.

Summer in Europe. There is so much to see and do — especially if you’re a sports fan. But if it’s your first time visiting, or you don’t know your way around, you could be lost and confused instead of having the time of your life. Not only that, but flying between cities takes time and energy, taking away from time spent exploring.

To help you plan a European vacation like nothing else, Trainline — Europe’s No. 1 train and bus booking service — tapped Olympic gold medal-winning diver Tom Daley. With Tom’s experience traveling the world and his diverse interests, he authored “Tom Daley's Summer Sports Tour of Europe,” so you can know where to go and enjoy the convenience of going by train.

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Classic Costa Rica

Fully Guided
Hiking & Trekking
Christmas & New Year

Traveled in March 2024

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Descend to the Caribbean lowlands to Tortuguero National Park
Visit small town La Fortuna and the majestic Arenal Volcano
Explore Monteverde National Park on a walking tour
Discover exotic wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park
Introduction
Day 1 San Jose
Day 2 Tortuguero National Park
Day 3 Tortuguero National Park
Day 4 Santa Rosa de Pocosol Homestay
Day 5 Tenorio Volcano National Park Area - Rio Celeste
Day 6 Rio Celeste
Day 7 La Fortuna
Day 8 La Fortuna
Day 9 Lake Arenal - Monteverde
Day 10 Monteverde
Day 11 Manuel Antonio
Day 12 Manuel Antonio
Day 13 Manuel Antonio
Day 14 San Jose
Day 15 San Jose

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Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an...

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Overall Rating Excellent 4.5
Itinerary Excellent 4.7
Guide Excellent 4.8
Transport Excellent 4.2
Accommodation Good 3.7
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Frequently Asked Questions

The single supplement is available except on Days 5 & 6 (Rio Celeste), where you will be in shared accommodation.

Payments can be processed via credit card or bank transfer, and details will be handled by Tourradar specialists.

Changes or cancellations after confirmation will incur fees as per the cancellation policy.

A deposit is required to confirm your booking; the amount and terms will be provided during the booking process.

Yes, we can arrange airport transfers at a cost, e.g. $63 from San Jose Airport to Rincon del Valle Hotel.

For local markets and basic restaurants, round your bill to the nearest US$5. For more up-market restaurants, 10% of your bill is suggested.

We suggest US$3-6 per day for drivers.

14 days or fewer prior to departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 100% of the booking cost.

If you cancel before the trip is confirmed, you are 100% responsible for all fees.

Cancellation fees vary: 56 days or more prior to departure, deposit held as credit; 31-55 days, 30% fee; 30-15 days, 60% fee; 14 days or fewer, 100% fee.

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Good to Know

Currency ₡ Costa Rican Colon Costa Rica

As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B.

These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
Typhoid - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Hepatitis A - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Hepatitis B - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 months before travel.
Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Costa Rica. Ideally 10 days before travel.
Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
For any tour departing before 1st September 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 1st September 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
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Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Copa America 2024: Colombia downs Costa Rica, could play in Arizona again next week

E ight years ago, South America's CONMEBOL soccer federation made the bold move to hold its 100th anniversary continental soccer championship tournament in the United States. Three matches were held at what is now State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

In 2024, Copa America is back in the U.S, and the home of the Arizona Cardinals is host once again to three matches. The first took place Friday, a Group D match between Colombia and Costa Rica. It was little surprise which team's fans would have the largest presence. Colombia fans traditionally travel well to FIFA World Cups, and many came from South America and other parts of the U.S., washing the stadium yellow.

Colombia can seize control of the group with a win, while Costa Rica can move in to first place temporarily if it gets the three points from what would be an upset victory. Follow along for live updates.

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Copa America 2024 final: Colombia 3, Costa Rica 0

Colombia has qualified for the Copa America quarterfinals with its 3-0 win over Costa Rica Friday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. The South American team still has one match to play, against Brazil on Tuesday in Santa Clara, Calif.

Things could not have gone much better for Colombia, which dominated everywhere, from game stats to fans in the seats. Colombia is in a good spot to win Group D, and if that happens, the team returns to Glendale for the quarterfinals against either the U.S. or Panama, most likely.

Colombia head coach Nestor Lorenzo remained undefeated since being brought on two years ago to guide the team.

"We're a good team. But we also have good character. It's no miracle. They're good players," Lorenzo said after the game, in Spanish. "The quality of the players is what makes the difference. On the field they pressure, they stick to the game plan. ... Today was a game we dominated from start to finish."

Costa Rica head coach Gustavo Alfaro recognized the talent disparity.

"The other team was clearly on another level," Alfaro said in Spanish. "These losses hurt, no one likes to lose, especially 3-0, but we have to understand and learn how to get things done."

Not a bad crowd for Copa America Colombia vs Costa Rica

The attendance has been announced for today's Copa America match between Colombia and Costa Rica. It's 27,386, which is pretty solid given that it was a 3 p.m. local time kickoff on a Friday, in a market without a large Colombian or Costa Rican population.

Clearly many folks came from far away and gave this game a lively atmosphere.

Two quick goals, Colombia in control over Costa Rica

The second half has seen Colombia take full control of a match it was already dominating against Costa Rica. Davinson Sanchez scored off a corner kick with a header in the 59th minute, making it 2-0 Colombia, and with the crowd already in a frenzy, Jhon Cordoba's solo effort led to a right-footed shot from a side angle which was perfectly placed.

It's now a full-fledged party at State Farm Stadium for the Colombia faithful, who only need some salsa music to complete the festivities. Colombia has looked good the entire match and has kept up the attack throughout the match.

Star midfielder James Rodriguez just left the game for a sub in the 72nd minute. He got a huge ovation from the crowd and clapped his hands in appreciation of the support.

Colombia takes first-half lead on penalty kick

After a foul near the edge of the box by Costa Rica, Colombia was awarded a penalty kick without video review and Luis Diaz converted it in the 31st minute. Colombia leads 1-0.

The thousands of "Cafeteros" fans, and even some journalists in the press box at State Farm Stadium, rise to their feet and raise their voices as Colombia comes close to scoring a goal, and it happened a few times in the first half.

Costa Rica is trying to dig on defense, not getting much possession of the ball. Diaz, a forward who plays for Liverpool in the English Premier League, missed a header in the sixth minute that went high of the net. Then James (pronounced "Ha-mess") Rodriguez had his left-footed attempt saved by Costa Rica goalkeeper Patrick Sequeira in the 20th minute.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Copa America 2024: Colombia downs Costa Rica, could play in Arizona again next week

Colombia forward Luis Diaz (7) celebrates his penalty kick goal against Costa Rica during the first half at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Friday, June 28, 2024.

The Best Hotels in Costa Rica

From jungle canopy suites to adults-only retreats, these hotels are the cherry on top of any Costa Rican adventure.

By Toby Louch

The Central American paradise of Costa Rica began to gain popularity with tourists during the late 80s, by the end of the 90s, travel was boosting its economy more than bananas, coffee and pineapples combined. An early poster child for the eco-tourism movement, today Costa Rica sees almost three million visitors each year. But where should all these travelers stay? This tropical haven is certainly not short of budget spots, but for those looking to add a drop of luxury to their Costa Rican adventure, we have compiled a list of the best hotels in Costa Rica.

For the environmentally conscious traveler, Costa Rica proves to be an excellent choice. Almost 24% of its land mass is considered either a national park or protected area, the highest percentage of any country in the world. Similarly, while only covering 0.03% of the world’s landmass, Costa Rica boasts around 5% of its biodiversity , to the delight of flora and fauna lovers. Many of the best hotels in Costa Rica really lean into the country’s impressive sustainability record, offering travelers the opportunity to make their stay as low-impact as possible.

Of course, no two travelers are the same, with each decerning visitor looking for something a little different from their Costa Rican vacation. To satisfy the hopes and dreams of the many, this list includes a wide variety of options; from mega luxurious rainforest lodges provided by some of the biggest luxury hotel brands in the world, to small, beachfront boutique hidden gems. So if you’re looking to capture some of the ‘Pura Vida’ the country is so renowned for, take a look at some of the best hotels in Costa Rica.

It’s always best to start from the beginning, and this first hotel delivers it in name alone. Origins is a series of luxury lodges located in the idyllic mountains of northern Costa Rica. Positioned as ‘the new definition of luxury ecolodge,’ this is the ideal spot to tune out from the outside world and sink into your new tropical lifestyle.

Featuring a wide variety of different lodges, the largest of which is 2400 sq-ft and includes three separate bedrooms. Just because you’re in the jungle, it doesn’t mean you’re not living in absolute luxury. Lifted high above the ground, these abodes include relaxing plunge pools and feature 180-degree views across the estate, nearby volcanos and Nicaragua Lake.

When it comes to food, Origins is ready to impress. There is a series of on-site chefs who utilize local ingredients, some of which are grown on the estate, to deliver exemplary haute cuisine. If you’re looking to immerse in Costa Rica’s mountainous jungle, Origins is surely one of the best hotels.

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Originslodge.com

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The Springs Resort and Spa

Heading a little south, travelers arrive at The Springs Resort and Spa in Arenal, one of the most popular spots for tourists visiting Costa Rica. One of this hotel’s selling points is the wildly impressive nearby Arenal Volcano , which stretches over 5000ft high, with Springs featuring one of the finest views of the volcano that can be found anywhere.

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Called Springs thanks to, you guessed it, the hotel’s natural hot springs, this resort is ideal for those looking to relax, the on-site full-service spa certainly helps as well. Visitors have a huge amount of choice when it comes to accommodation, ranging from smaller guest rooms to vast five-bed villas with hot tubs and private swimming pools.

The dining options are just as varied featuring an upscale fusion restaurant and a sushi restaurant in addition to more relaxed style dining. There are also several bars that make the perfect spot for a nightcap.

thespringscostarica.com

[See also: The Most Tranquil Hotels in Tuscany]

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo

No list of the best hotels in Costa Rica is complete without a mention of Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo. Positioned as ‘ Latin America ’s ultimate coastal retreat’, unlike the previous two hotels, the Four Seasons can be found on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, on a small peninsula that helps form the beautiful Culebra Bay.

Those familiar with Four Seasons will know that their properties deliver the highest levels of service and Peninsula Papagayo is no exception. The mixture of decadent Costa Rica villas, residences and rooms include private pools, beautiful terraces and breathtaking panoramic views. The most expansive residence Casa Las Olas is over 18,000 sq-ft and can host up to 12 adults, ensuring even the extended family can enjoy this paradise together.

Using this resort as a base, visitors can adventure into the jungle on ziplines or wilderness hikes, spend the day horse riding, or perhaps go paddle boarding in the bay. In the evening why not head to the lively Añejo, a crudos and tapas bar that transforms into the heart of the hotel.

fourseasonscostarica.com

[See also: The Most Idyllic Hotels in Lake Como]

Lapa Rios Lodge

Heading to Costa Rica’s south for the first time, we arrive at the stunning Lapa Rios Lodge. This beautiful spot sits at the edge of a peninsula on the country’s Pacific coast, just down the road from the showstopping King Louis Waterfall. Providing an authentic rainforest experience, without compromising on comfort, since opening in 1993 Lapa Rios has prided itself on protecting over 1,000 acres of both primary and secondary rainforest.

Today, guests can select from a mixture of treetop canopy suites, ocean and rainforest view bungalows and the glorious Lapa villas. These four villas sit above the forest canopy and include vast floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to soak in the view at any moment. The expansive outdoor terrace includes a both a private rain shower and plunge pool, perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat.

One of the best hotels in Costa Rica for wildlife lovers, if you’re lucky you may spot the whales, dolphins and sea turtles that regularly explore the bay below.

Laparios.com

[See also: The Best Hotels in New York and the Best Suites to Book]

Nayara Tented Camp

For travelers to Costa Rica looking to take glamping to the next level, Nayara Tented Camp ticks all the boxes. The ideal stay for those looking to connect with this country’s incredible natural environment, Nayara offers visitors a new style of luxury.

Choosing from either the Nayara Tent, a glorious two-adult, two-child tent that sits on stilts above the canopy; a Family Tent, two tents connected by a communal outdoor living space that sleeps six; a grand tent, which sleeps six with even more space; or even a private residence, which is perfect for groups of up to 12.

The ideal spot to unwind from the real world, if it’s yoga you’re into perhaps something a bit more up-tempo like white water rafting. The unique style of luxury provided by Nayara Tented Camp ensures it’s one of the best hotels in Costa Rica.

nayaratentedcamp.com

[See also: The Best Luxury Hotels in San Francisco]

If relaxation is one of the most important draws for your Costa Rica trip, perhaps this boutique, adults-only hotel is the right choice. Kura is positioned as ‘the most glamorous romantic resort in Costa Rica’ and we can see why.

Featuring only eight luxury suites, this private escape is perfect for those looking to avoid everyone else. Following the design concept of tropical minimalism, Kura’s suites are ultra-modern and designed specifically with couples in mind, however, they still fit perfectly with the natural environment. The most exclusive master suites span an impressive 1500 sq-ft and are positioned separately from the other suites.

While you’re not enjoying the incredible suites, the hotel is close to the whale coast which is home to seven beautiful beaches . Whether seasoned pro or complete novice, this could be the ideal opportunity to give surfing a go. Or for something a little more relaxing, why not take a hike to the sizable 120ft Nauyaca Waterfalls.

kuracostarica.com

[See also: The Best Hotels in Los Angeles – and Inside Their Top Suites]

Pacuare Lodge

Heading back inland, we arrive at our final destination, Pacuare Lodge, a luxury eco-hotel with only 20 suites. Situated on the secluded banks of its namesake, the Pacuare River, this jungle hideaway is perfect for those looking to get lost in the magic of Costa Rica and is sure to be one of the best hotels in the region.

Keeping things simple yet sophisticated, the lodge follows the Indigenous Cabécar style architecture. The lodge offers an impressive selection of suites and villas. The Jaguar Villa is the most luxurious pick and essentially places guests right in the rainforest. Teak furniture and hardwood flooring keep this 3700 sq-ft villa classic, there is also a private spring-fed pool and quaint hammock and sitting area.

If it’s adventure you seek, why not spend an afternoon canyoning, which includes a mixture of rock climbing and rappelling. Those looking for something a touch more relaxing could always check out the onsite Jawa Juü Spa, which specializes in rainforest remedies.

pacuarelodge.com

[See also: The Quietest Greek Islands to Visit]

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Directorate for Education and Skills

The Education and Skills Directorate is one of twelve substantive departments of the OECD and provides policy analysis and advice on education to help individuals and nations to identify and develop the knowledge and skills that drive better jobs and better lives, generate prosperity and promote social inclusion.

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The OECD Directorate for Education and Skills seeks to help individuals and nations to identify and develop the knowledge, skills and values that drive better jobs and better lives, generate prosperity and promote social inclusion. It assists OECD countries and partner economies in designing and managing their education and skills systems, and in implementing reforms, so that citizens can develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values they need throughout their lives.

Andreas Schleicher

Director Directorate for Education and Skills

Yuri Belfali

Head Early Childhood and Schools Division

Paulo Santiago

Head Policy Advice and Implementation Division

Tia Loukkola

Head Innovation and Measuring Progress Division

How we work

The work of the Directorate for Education and Skills is overseen by four bodies, each with its own mandate, membership, and programme of work and budget, to help deliver work under the overall governance of the OECD Council:

The Education Policy Committee, which also provides strategic oversight of our work
The Centre for Educational Research and Innovation Governing Board (CERI)
The Programme for International Student Assessment Governing Board (PISA)
The Programme for Teaching and Learning International Survey Governing Board (TALIS)
The Board of Participating Countries for the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) is overseen by both the Education Policy Committee and the Employment, Labour and Social Affairs Committee.

What we are working on

The best way for education systems to improve is to learn what works from each other. We deploy large scale surveys and reviews, designing common methodological and analytical frameworks for utmost comparability of empirical evidence from different education systems. We collect data about nearly all aspects of countries’ education systems from key policies, teacher practises, adult proficiency, and early childhood learning and well-being to how 15-year-olds perform in mathematics and what their attitudes are about global issues like climate change.

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Review policies
PISA for schools

Assisting countries with policy development and implementation

We help countries answer important questions facing education policy makers and practitioners alike: how to identify and develop the right skills and turn them into better jobs and better lives; how best to allocate resources in education to support social and economic development; and how to offer everyone the chance to make the most of their abilities at every age and stage of life OECD and partner countries look to our expertise to review their education and skills systems, and assist them in developing and implementing policies to improve them. We conduct reviews ranging from those on individual national education policy to comparative educational policy and thematic peer-analysis. We review and support the development of higher education systems with analysis on resource use and labour market relevance. All of these provide in-depth analyses and advice that draw on OECD data resources, national policy documents and research, and field-based interviewing by OECD review teams. Comparative thematics, covering areas such as ECEC in a digital world, diversity, equity and inclusion in education, teacher policy and transitions in upper secondary education, are based on a common conceptual framework and methodology developed with advice from a group of national experts.

Through tailored implementation support the directorate offers countries assistance in implementing policy, from curriculum reform to helping schools become effective learning organisations. It also brings countries and stakeholders together in a variety of fora to exchange ideas, an important step in the policymaking process.

Pivoting to tomorrow

What knowledge, skills, attitudes and values will students need in a swiftly evolving world? We develop long-term “leading-edge” thinking that looks beyond the current state of education to what it can become. These multiple-scenario analyses nourish our ground-breaking Education 2030 work on curriculum. They inform international debate and inspire policy processes to shape the future of education. The one certainty about the future of education is that it will be a digital one though we cannot know to what degree. In staying ahead of the EdTech curve, the directorate advises countries on the fast-changing potential of digital tools like robotics, blockchain and artificial intelligence, and how they can be integrated and used to equitably boost teaching, learning and administrative performance. The digitalisation of education is just one of the many strategic foresight areas the OECD’s Centre for Educational Research and Innovation (CERI) focuses on. Its exploration of best practices flagged by international comparisons helps countries move towards the frontiers of education.

Programmes of work

Education and Skills Policy Programme The OECD’s programme on education and skills policy support policymakers in their efforts to achieve high-quality lifelong learning, which in turn contributes to personal development, sustainable economic growth, and social cohesion. Learn more
CERI The Centre for Educational Research and Innovation (CERI) provides and promotes international comparative research, innovation and key indicators, explores forward-looking and innovative approaches to education and learning, and facilitates bridges between educational research, innovation and policy development. Learn more
INES The OECD Indicators of Education Systems (INES) programme seeks to gauge the performance of national education systems through internationally comparable data. Learn more
PISA PISA is the OECD's Programme for International Student Assessment. PISA measures 15-year-olds’ ability to use their reading, mathematics and science knowledge and skills to meet real-life challenges. Learn more
PIAAC The Survey of Adult Skills, a product of the PIAAC, measures adults’ proficiency in literacy, numeracy and the ability to solve problems in technology-rich environments. Learn more
TALIS TALIS - the Teaching and Learning International Survey - is the world's largest international survey about teachers and school leaders. Learn more
Survey on Social and Emotional Skills (SSES) The OECD Survey on Social and Emotional Skills is an international survey that identifies and assesses the conditions and practices that foster or hinder the development of social and emotional skills for 10- and 15-year-old students. Learn more
Early Childhood Education and Care The Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) programme conducts analysis and develops new data to support countries in reviewing and improving their early childhood services and systems. Learn more
Higher Education Policy The Higher Education Policy Programme carries out analysis on a wide range of higher education systems and policies Learn more

Directorate outputs

Policy and working papers

More facts, key findings and policy recommendations

Create customised data profiles and compare countries

Related policy issues

Education access, participation, and progression
Education economic and social outcomes
Education equity
Education evaluation and quality assurance
Education financing
Education leadership
Education organisation and governance
Future of education and skills
Learning environment
Teachers and educators
Student performance (PISA)

Get in touch

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The Best Costa Rica Tours for 2021, Tailor-Made
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15 Best Tours In Costa Rica

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I spent 10 Days in Costa Rica

COMMENTS

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April 12, 2024, at 11:52 a.m. The 17 Best Costa Rica Tours. More. Getty Images. While known for its vast species of wildlife, lush rainforests and gorgeous waterfalls, Costa Rica can be difficult ...
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Costa Rica Quest. 4.8 (282 traveler reviews) "The beaches at Manuel Antonio National Park were amazing. The guided walking tour to explore the wildlife was great." Ralph, traveled in March 2024. Destinations. San Jose, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano National Park, +2 more. Age Range. up to 90 year olds.
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THE 10 BEST Costa Rica Tours for 2024 (from
1. Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Full Day Tour. 844. Full-day Tours. 6+ hours. See the best of La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano area in just one day with this tour. Start with a hike along the La Fortuna…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 96% of travellers.
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Lake Arenal: Costa Rica's largest lake, Lake Arenal, offers water activities such as windsurfing and boat tours with the Arenal Volcano as a stunning backdrop. Playa Samara: A tranquil beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Samara is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
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Raft, Hike and Explore Costa Rica. 4.7 (22 traveler reviews) "The activities were all good, except the horseback riding was below average." Marc, traveled in February 2024. Destinations. San Jose, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde. Age Range. 12 to 65 year olds. Country Region.
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Top Costa Rica Attractions. Exploring miles of off-the-beaten-track beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Glimpsing rare tropical birds and butterflies on a rainforest hike. Viewing both coasts from atop 11,200-foot Irazu volcano while gazing into massive craters that look like they were scooped out for some gargantuan ice cream cone.
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Read our Costa Rica tour reviews and testimonials - Caravan Tours 1-800-227-2826; San Jose, Fortuna, Manuel Antonio and Leatherback Turtle park. ... "This tour of Costa Rica included all types of flora and fauna that could possibly be encountered in 9 days on a trip. Perfect choice of sightseeing and activities: a 10 star rating."
Costa Rica: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)
Costa Rica Tourism: Tripadvisor has 1,903,752 reviews of Costa Rica Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Costa Rica resource. ... The cheapest way to travel around Costa Rica is by bus, and there is a wide network of long-distance buses that will take you wherever you want to go. Find route information and fares.
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All Collette company reviews. Why we love them. With a history that spans back to 1918, they have unparalleled expertise in the guided tour industry and can cater to all types of travelers. Featured Costa Rica Trips. # 7. of 130 matches. preferred. Exoticca. 4.4.
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Exploring the Monteverde cloud forest on the G Adventures Costa Rica tour G Adventures Review Day 5 - Monteverde. Day 5 is a full day in Monteverde, during which you have a choice of many things do including more hiking and wildlife-spotting, walking suspension bridges through the jungle, visiting a butterfly garden, horseback riding, or zip ...
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C$155. per adult. 19. Sky Adventures Park Zipline Course and Aerial Tram in Arenal Park. 300. Extreme Sports. 2 hours. Sky Trek & Sky Tram tours takes you to highest points in the Arenal rainforest with an adventure full of adrenaline. The….
Tui Grand Tour Costa Rica
Destination Services. 693 Reviews. #32 of 323 Tours in San Jose. Tours, Multi-day Tours. San Jose 10109, Costa Rica. Open today: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM.
Costa Rica Travel Guide
Around 500km southwest of the Costa Rica mainland, Isla del Coco is a natural wonder that teems with wildlife, including the largest schools of hammerhead… Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal From 1968 until 2010, Volcán Arenal was an ever-active and awe-striking natural wonder, producing menacing ash columns, massive explosions and streams of…
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Basic Costa Rica Tour with G Adventures
On the G Adventures 18-35 tours, like the Basic Costa Rica tour, chances are you'll have a good mixture of people of all ages within those brackets. The youngest person on my tour was 18, and the oldest was 33. Everybody was part of the group though, and I didn't feel any divisions between people.
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If you're planning a trip to the area, there are a few must-visit places for sightseeing in Costa Rica, from the captivating symmetry of the Arenal Volcano to the surreal blue waters of the Rio Celeste. 1. Arenal Volcano. The Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica's most iconic natural landmarks, is a must-see while in the area. It stands at ...
Costa Rica Tours Tortuguero Engel
Bites and Sights: Walking Food Tour in San Jose, Costa Rica. 578. Food & Drink. from . AU$45.86. per adult. Zipline Canopy Tour & Tortuguero Canal Boat tour. Shore Excursion from Limon. 26. Adventure Tours. from . AU$221.67. per adult. All-inclusive package 7 nights 8 days in the best destinations in Costa Rica. 55. Bus Tours.
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1. Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Full Day Tour. 843. Full-day Tours. 6+ hours. See the best of La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano area in just one day with this tour. Start with a hike along the La Fortuna…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 96% of travellers.
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Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, and a tour of a coffee plantation is a great way to learn about the country's coffee-making traditions. The Central Valley, particularly around the town of ...
Classic Costa Rica by Intrepid Travel with 51 Tour Reviews (Code: QVSR
Itinerary. Start and end in San Jose! With the Explorer tour Classic Costa Rica, you have a 15 days tour package taking you through San Jose, Costa Rica and 7 other destinations in Costa Rica. Classic Costa Rica includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more. Expand All.
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After a foul near the edge of the box by Costa Rica, Colombia was awarded a penalty kick without video review and Luis Diaz converted it in the 31st minute. Colombia leads 1-0.
Review of Caravan tours
18 reviews. 17 helpful votes. 4. Re: Review of Caravan tours. 16 years ago. Cost ranges from $995 to $1095 depending on the season (we paid the higher price for high season which is also considered the 'dry' season).
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The Central American paradise of Costa Rica began to gain popularity with tourists during the late 80s, by the end of the 90s, travel was boosting its economy more than bananas, coffee and pineapples combined. An early poster child for the eco-tourism movement, today Costa Rica sees almost three million visitors each year. But where should all ...
Edu
Costa Rica. Croatia. Czechia. Denmark. Estonia. European Union. Finland. France. Germany. Greece. Hungary. ... We deploy large scale surveys and reviews, designing common methodological and analytical frameworks for utmost comparability of empirical evidence from different education systems. We collect data about nearly all aspects of countries ...