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Costa Rica Highlights

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10 Days from $2,800 pp*

Highlights: Costa Rica (San José, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio)

Trip Start/End: San José / San José

* USD per person based on 2-4 people, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

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Discover a land where howler monkeys rule the rainforest and toucans rule the sky.

Costa Rica is celebrated for its vast biodiversity, awe-inspiring landscapes and numerous natural wonders, which makes it a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the capital city of San Jose, set in the lush central valley, and wander streets where time moves more slowly. Experience ziplining high above the cloud forest, hike through wild jungles in search of Ocelot and sloth, and stroll along pristine beaches as the sun dips below the horizon. In the evening, relax in comfortable and airy accommodations with the sounds of nature around you.

Experience an early morning canal tour and listen to the thrilling sounds of jungle creatures stirring to life. Be driven in your own 4x4 vehicle through the lush tropical rainforest that resides at the base of Arenal Volcano, and rappel down the glorious waterfall. Take a scenic boat ride across Lake Arenal to Monteverde, and explore the enchanted cloud forest that’s home to a variety of exotic birds and mammals, including Howler monkeys and toucans. Head to Manuel Antonio National Park for a private, guided tour through mangrove swamps, rainforests and marshy woodlands where over 100 mammal species live.

Enjoy a personalized vacation that best suits your needs, developed by one of our experienced destination experts. Relax during your trip with our 24/7 support and expert local guidance.

Overview

Day	Activities	Hotel
Day 1 San José	Meet and Greet Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver Costa Rica - Welcome Package Dinner (not included)	Grano de Oro Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 2 San José - Tortuguero	Breakfast (included) Transfer to Tortuguero (shared) with guided tour of National Park (with breakfast)(7.5hrs) Tortuguero National Park Fee - Park Fee Turtle Beach Lodge- Arrival & welcome Lunch (included) Self-Guided - Turtle Beach Lodge: Explore Tortuguero village Turtle Beach Lodge: Buffet Dinner	Turtle Beach Lodge Standard 2N/3D (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Evergreen Lodge (standard)
Day 3 Tortuguero	Breakfast (included) Turtle beach Lodge: Canal & Jungle Tour (shared tour) Turtle Beach Lodge: Buffet Lunch Self-Guided - Turtle Beach Lodge: At Leisure Turtle Beach Lodge: Buffet Dinner	Turtle Beach Lodge Standard 2N/3D (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 4 Tortuguero - Guápiles - Arenal	Breakfast (included) Transfer to Guapiles (shared) Lunch (included) Transfer - Private - Guápiles - Arenal [3 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver Afternoon at Leisure Dinner (not included)	Royal Corin Hotel & Spa Standard (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Observatory Lodge (smithsonian)
Day 5 Arenal	Breakfast (included) Shared - 1/2 d Waterfall Rapelling (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver Private - Volcano Hike & Thermal Pools at the Springs Resort & Spa (with Dinner) (6 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver Dinner (included)	Royal Corin Hotel & Spa Standard (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 6 Arenal - Monteverde	Breakfast (included) Transfer - Private - Arenal - Monteverde [4 hrs] - Vehicle/Boat/Guide Lunch (not included) Shared - 1/2 d Zip Canopy Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver Dinner (not included)	Monteverde Lodge & Gardens Forest View Balcony (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 7 Monteverde	Breakfast (included) Private - 1/2 d Monteverde Cloudforest Reserve Hike - Vehicle/Guide Lunch (not included) Optional Activities Dinner (not included)	Monteverde Lodge & Gardens Forest View Balcony (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 8 Monteverde - Manuel Antonio	Breakfast (included) Transfer - Private - Monteverde - Manuel Antonio [5 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver Lunch (not included) Optional Activities Dinner (not included)	Hotel Si Como No Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Arenas del Mar (Ocean Breeze Superior Room)
Day 9 Manuel Antonio	Breakfast (included) Private - 1/2 d Manuel Antonio National Park Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver Lunch (not included) Dinner (not included)	Hotel Si Como No Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 10 Manuel Antonio - San José	Breakfast (included) Transfer - Private - Manuel Antonio - San José [3 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver	Depart (Int`l Airport)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive

Trip Itinerary

- San José
- Grano de Oro, San Jose
Day 1: San José
Upon arrival you will be met by our local representative who will help you locate your vehicle.
Enjoy a private airport transfer with vehicle, and professional driver. The transfer is approximately 30 mins (22km/14mi).
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, and any other touristic information that you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival.

Family Welcome Package based on 2 parents with children. (2 parents + 1 child = 3 pax).
Accommodation: Grano de Oro
Grano de Oro is the hotel of choice for those who visit San Jose, with a reputation for hospitality and fine quality. The 35 rooms are magical and full of allure, with each possessing a carefully chosen color scheme and theme. Pleasant features such as a fountain or balcony add to the appeal of each room. Grano de Oro's restaurant is recognized for its culinary success, surpassing the expectations of even the most critical guest. Set under a high ceiling, or in the romance of the outdoors, each dish is prepared with local and international influences. The subtle ambiance of the restaurant is what makes visitors return. Spend time lounging on the lawn beds of the rooftop garden terrace. Otherwise, sink into relaxation in the Jacuzzi.
- Tortuguero
- The Waterfall at Braulio Carillo
- Room at Turtle Beach Lodge
Day 2: San José - Tortuguero
Start your adventure with an early morning pick up in San Jose. Absorb the natural beauty of Costa Rica as you travel from the city into the Braulio Carrillo National Park and through the agricultural versatility of the Limon lowlands, including pineapples, rice, cattle and much more. Experience a typical Costa Rican breakfast along the way. Upon Arrival at the port, you will be transferred to the lodge by boat. Enjoy a scenic ride on the Tortuguero River and the Tortuguero National Park canals as you voyage to your lodge.

The total transfer time including stops along the way is approximately 7.5 hours (267km/166mi). All transfers and activities in Tortuguero that are included are offered on a SHARED BASIS with other guests of the lodge.

NOTE: There is a luggage restriction for excursions to Tortuguero. Passengers are limited to 25lbs per person only.
The Tortuguero National Park Fee has been pre-paid for your convenience.
Receive a friendly welcome to Turtle Beach Lodge with a cool, fresh fruit cocktail and delicious lunch buffet, then settle into your airy room.
Explore the most popular sightseeing attractions of the area including the Tortuguero village and a visit to the National Park office to purchase entrance tickets.
Enjoy a buffet dinner in the candle lit Turtle Tavern and Restaurant.
Accommodation: Turtle Beach Lodge
Turtle Beach Lodge is a secluded resort spanning 175 acres. It encompasses miles of jungle trails, a meandering private canal and a half mile of isolated beach on the Caribbean Sea. The lodge provides highly trained staff and guides who ease you into an extraordinary jungle experience. Tortuguero has incredible biological variety due to the existence of eleven different habitats, including rainforest, swamps, beaches and lagoons. The beaches are a key nesting ground for endangered sea turtles, and there are more than 400 species of trees and approximately 2,200 species of plants. Return from your explorations each day and relax on the beach, in a hammock by the pool or perhaps kayak through the canals. Play chess, cards or have a cool drink in the bar rancho and enjoy a leisurely dinner with your fellow travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation or a combination of the two, the unique location and diversity of Turtle Beach Lodge provides an unforgettable experience for all.
- Canal Tour Animal Sightseeing
- Canopy Bridge
Day 3: Tortuguero
Rise and shine! Enjoy Costa Rican coffee, tea and cookies in the restaurant to start your morning. Join an early morning (5.30am) guided Canal Tour and experience the awakening of the jungle surrounding the canals as the animals start their day. This is one of the most exciting times of the day in the jungle. Replenish with a healthy, typical “Tico” breakfast in the Turtle Restaurant. After breakfast, suit yourself up with a pair of complimentary boots provided by the lodge and explore the mysterious Tortuguero Jungle with your Guide. Learn about the jungle flora and fauna as well as the animals that live in the tropical rain forest.
Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at the lodge.
Schedule a canopy, garden, kayak or cerro tour, go fishing or just nap in a hammock on the beach or by the pool! Speak with your Guide for times and other options if you feel like being active. Alternatively, simply relax for the afternoon before perhaps enjoying a cocktail before dinner.
Enjoy a buffet dinner in the candle lit Turtle Tavern and Restaurant.
Accommodation: Turtle Beach Lodge
- The Arenal Volcano
- Royal Corin Hotel & Spa
Day 4: Tortuguero - Guápiles - Arenal
Replenish with a healthy, typical Tico breakfast in the Turtle Restaurant. Check-out; please turn in your keys and any borrowed items to the reception. The transfer will be by boat on the canals, and then by bus. Enjoy a typical lunch along the way.
Meet your driver for a private transfer to Arenal.
In the afternoon, enjoy some time on your own to relax.
Accommodation: Royal Corin Hotel & Spa
Located in Arenal, Costa Rica, with a glowing and clear view of the Arenal Volcano, the Royal Corin Resort & Loto Spa sits surrounded by pools and bathed in relaxation. The Royal Corin Resort & Loto Spa has 54 rooms with an elegant design, quiet atmosphere in harmony with natural wealth of the area of the majestic Arenal volcano. Each room has a fantastic view of the volcano mainly because of the excellent architectural design. Royal Corin Resort & Loto Spa is the best answer if you are looking for a comfortable and luxurious destination in one of the most beautiful areas in Costa Rica.
- Repelling
- Hot Springs at The Springs Resort & Spa
Day 5: Arenal
Waterfall repelling is known as "canyoning". You will be picked up from your hotel and begin your adventure with a 30-minute 4x4 drive into the tropical rain forest outside the town of La Fortuna, in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano. This adventure includes 5 rappels, 4 of which are alongside or right in waterfalls, and one dry rock face. After this sensational adventure you will return to the base camp to enjoy lunch. Return to the hotel after the tour has finished. You are required to be in good physical condition to participate. Morning departure, duration 4 hours approx.

Recommended list of items to bring: easy dry clothes, bathing suit, secure shoes (sports sandals and water shoes are best), change of clothing for after the tour and sunscreen.
You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the rainforest close to the Arenal Volcano. Enjoy a leisurely hike for 1.5 hours through the rainforest while your private guide offers the history of the Arenal Volcano. This park is located at the base of the Arenal Volcano and is filled with wildlife including monkeys, toucans, coati and a large variety of bird species. Conclude the tour at the Springs Resort - soak in the hot mineral baths and enjoy! After a soothing soak in the hot springs, enjoy a lovely dinner at The Springs Resort, prepared in a colonial style rustic kitchen. Enjoy the local cuisine - a true authentic experience. Return to your hotel in the evening after a delicious dinner (included in the tour cost).

Pick-up: 3:45 , Duration Approximately 6 hours
Accommodation: Royal Corin Hotel & Spa
- Hummingbird
- Monteverde Lodge
Day 6: Arenal - Monteverde
Meet your driver for a private transfer to Lake Arenal. Board a motor boat and cross the lake while observing scenic views of the Arenal Volcano (45 mins). Private vehicle transfer to your hotel in Monteverde.
You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the tour starting point. You will see beautiful views of the area all from a bird’s eye view flying through the treetops of the Monteverde Cloud Forest . You will get your adrenaline pumping when between each one of the points on the cables that stretch jungle. Morning/Afternoon Departures, Duration 3 Hours (approximately) Return to the hotel after the tour.
Accommodation: Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Located in the Tilarán Mountain Range at 4,600 ft. above sea level on the edge of the world's best-known mid-elevation cloud forest, Monteverde Lodge is the expression of Costa Rica Expeditions' desire to create the ultimate lodging experience for the discerning nature traveler. The Lodge has 24 standard rooms and 3 garden rooms. The dining room with its cloud forest mural, abundant tropical flora, and contemporary design is the perfect setting for enjoying the international and local dishes created by talented chef, Valentin Corral, the person responsible for the meals at all lodges. The rooms at the Lodge are designed to put you "in the forest" while protecting you from the mist and strong wind so characteristic of the area. All are spacious with solar heated hot water private baths.
- Cloudforest Reserve Tour
Day 7: Monteverde
You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the Monteverde Cloud forest. Explore the enchanted Monteverde Cloud forest with a set of expert eyes during this privately guided walk. Explore different trails in search of birds and mammals and discuss the amazing diversity of plants. Half day excursion (4 hrs).
Enjoy time at leisure in Monteverde. There are a plethora of optional activities you can pre-book to fill your time while in the cloud forest. Please let us know if you wish to add one of the following tours to your itinerary before you go (optional activities are an additional cost). Optional activities include: Ziplining, Suspended Bridges, ATV, Horseback riding, Serpentarium, Coffee Tour, Cloudforest Hiking, Night Hike, etc.
Accommodation: Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
- Manuel Antonio Beach
- Hotel Si Como No Guest Room
Day 8: Monteverde - Manuel Antonio
Meet your driver for a private transfer to your hotel in Manuel Antonio.
Enjoy time at leisure in Manuel Antonio. There are many optional activities you can choose to add to your itinerary during your stay here. Please feel free to advise your agent that you would like to add any of the following optional activities which are not included in tour price. These activities include white water rafting, zip canopy tour, Nauyaca Waterfalls by horseback, catamaran sunset sail, ATV rentals and much more!
Accommodation: Hotel Si Como No
Seated on a magical hilltop in Manuel Antonio is the Hotel Si Como No, where the stunning coastline nudges shoulders with the deep shades of the rainforest. The 58 rooms offer wondrous views of these surroundings, and are complemented by all the amenities and care of home. There is no TV but there is a DVD theatre for all to use. Dining open air, with all sorts of exotic creatures passing by, allows for experiences that are truly down to earth. Others dine outside the resort, to check out the area. Hotel Si Como No holds ecotourism very close, and has a private wildlife refuge onsite, as well as a lot of wandering animals to befriend. Also make sure to try kayaking and diving nearby, both very popular activities with visitors.
- White-Headed Capuchin Monkey
Day 9: Manuel Antonio
You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Manuel Antonio National Park for a private, guided tour. This scenic park attracts over 160,000 people each year to its wide beaches with troops of monkeys that frequent the area. The park consists of mangrove swamps, primary rainforests and marshy woodlands and is bordered by the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. It is a haven for over 100 mammal species including the highly endangered squirrel monkey, or mono titi. Morning/Afternoon Departures; Duration 3 Hours (approximately) When the tour is complete you will return to your hotel after the tour.
Accommodation: Hotel Si Como No
Day 10: Manuel Antonio - San José
Meet your driver for a private transfer to San José.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodations

- Grano de Oro, San Jose
Grano de Oro - San José
Grano de Oro is the hotel of choice for those who visit San Jose, with a reputation for hospitality and fine quality. The 35 rooms are magical and full of allure, with each possessing a carefully chosen color scheme and theme. Pleasant features such as a fountain or balcony add to the appeal of each room. Grano de Oro's restaurant is recognized for its culinary success, surpassing the expectations of even the most critical guest. Set under a high ceiling, or in the romance of the outdoors, each dish is prepared with local and international influences. The subtle ambiance of the restaurant is what makes visitors return. Spend time lounging on the lawn beds of the rooftop garden terrace. Otherwise, sink into relaxation in the Jacuzzi.
- More information
- Turtle Beach Lodge
- Beach at Turtle Beach Lodge
Turtle Beach Lodge - Tortuguero
Turtle Beach Lodge is a secluded resort spanning 175 acres. It encompasses miles of jungle trails, a meandering private canal and a half mile of isolated beach on the Caribbean Sea. The lodge provides highly trained staff and guides who ease you into an extraordinary jungle experience. Tortuguero has incredible biological variety due to the existence of eleven different habitats, including rainforest, swamps, beaches and lagoons. The beaches are a key nesting ground for endangered sea turtles, and there are more than 400 species of trees and approximately 2,200 species of plants. Return from your explorations each day and relax on the beach, in a hammock by the pool or perhaps kayak through the canals. Play chess, cards or have a cool drink in the bar rancho and enjoy a leisurely dinner with your fellow travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation or a combination of the two, the unique location and diversity of Turtle Beach Lodge provides an unforgettable experience for all.
- More information
- Royal Corin Hotel & Spa
Royal Corin Hotel & Spa - Arenal
Located in Arenal, Costa Rica, with a glowing and clear view of the Arenal Volcano, the Royal Corin Resort & Loto Spa sits surrounded by pools and bathed in relaxation. The Royal Corin Resort & Loto Spa has 54 rooms with an elegant design, quiet atmosphere in harmony with natural wealth of the area of the majestic Arenal volcano. Each room has a fantastic view of the volcano mainly because of the excellent architectural design. Royal Corin Resort & Loto Spa is the best answer if you are looking for a comfortable and luxurious destination in one of the most beautiful areas in Costa Rica.
- More information
- Monteverde Lodge
- Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens - Monteverde
Located in the Tilarán Mountain Range at 4,600 ft. above sea level on the edge of the world's best-known mid-elevation cloud forest, Monteverde Lodge is the expression of Costa Rica Expeditions' desire to create the ultimate lodging experience for the discerning nature traveler. The Lodge has 24 standard rooms and 3 garden rooms. The dining room with its cloud forest mural, abundant tropical flora, and contemporary design is the perfect setting for enjoying the international and local dishes created by talented chef, Valentin Corral, the person responsible for the meals at all lodges. The rooms at the Lodge are designed to put you "in the forest" while protecting you from the mist and strong wind so characteristic of the area. All are spacious with solar heated hot water private baths.
- More information
- Hotel Si Como No Guest Room
Hotel Si Como No - Manuel Antonio
Seated on a magical hilltop in Manuel Antonio is the Hotel Si Como No, where the stunning coastline nudges shoulders with the deep shades of the rainforest. The 58 rooms offer wondrous views of these surroundings, and are complemented by all the amenities and care of home. There is no TV but there is a DVD theatre for all to use. Dining open air, with all sorts of exotic creatures passing by, allows for experiences that are truly down to earth. Others dine outside the resort, to check out the area. Hotel Si Como No holds ecotourism very close, and has a private wildlife refuge onsite, as well as a lot of wandering animals to befriend. Also make sure to try kayaking and diving nearby, both very popular activities with visitors.
- More information

Travel Info

Travel tips of Costa Rica

VISA/PASSPORT
For entry into Costa Rica, U.S. and Canadian citizens must present valid passports that will not expire for at least thirty days after arrival, and a roundtrip/outbound ticket. Airlines should not permit passengers to board flights to Costa Rica without a roundtrip ticket unless they have Costa Rican residency or visa. Passports should be in good condition; Costa Rican immigration will deny entry if the passport is damaged in any way. Costa Rican authorities generally permit U.S. citizens to stay up to ninety days. Canadian citizens do not need to obtain visas for tourism stays of up to ninety days. Persons traveling to Costa Rica from some countries in South America and Sub-Saharan Africa must provide evidence of a valid yellow fever vaccination prior to entry. The South American countries include Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.

Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Costa Rica for the most up to date visa information.

HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality but not widespread. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/costa-rica.aspx

COUNTRY INFO
Capital: San José.
Government: Republic. Gained independence from Spain in 1821.
Language: Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken. Some French, German and Italian is also spoken.
Religion: Almost entirely Christian, with Roman Catholic majority.
Time: GMT - 6.
Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60Hz. Two-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +506. There are no area codes.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with some countries. Handsets can be hired, although this can be difficult and time-consuming. Costa Rica employs both GSM and TDMA systems.
Internet: There are Internet cafes throughout the country, and most tourist hotels also provide facilities.

Trip Map

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What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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Location

Travel Style

Duration
(# of days)

Accommodation Style
(Value, Premium, Luxury)

Costa Rica Highlights

Overview

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: San José

Day 2: San José - Tortuguero

Day 3: Tortuguero

Day 4: Tortuguero - Guápiles - Arenal

Day 5: Arenal

Day 6: Arenal - Monteverde

Day 7: Monteverde

Day 8: Monteverde - Manuel Antonio

Day 9: Manuel Antonio

Day 10: Manuel Antonio - San José

Accommodations

Grano de Oro - San José

Turtle Beach Lodge - Tortuguero

Royal Corin Hotel & Spa - Arenal

Monteverde Lodge & Gardens - Monteverde

Hotel Si Como No - Manuel Antonio

Travel Info

Travel tips of Costa Rica

Trip Map

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What's Included:

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Trip Terms & Conditions

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