Join us on this day tour to explore one of the lesser-known highlights of Costa Rica, Tenorio Volcano National Park, home to cascading waterfalls and turquoise pools. We will pick you up from your accommodation in La Fortuna and drive you to the national park.
Enjoy hiking on the national park's seven-kilometre-long trail and encounter enchanting sights along the way, starting with the magical Rio Celeste Waterfall and a beautiful natural lagoon formed by a river. Hike up to the observation deck from where you can enjoy amazing views of the Tenorio Volcano.
Next come two unbelievable attractions: Las Ollas, where you can see fumaroles filled with boiling mud, and Los Teñideros, the place where the river acquires it unique color due to a chemical reaction. It's time to enjoy your lunch after you have seen both these highlights. We will drive you to your accommodation after that.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
I had not been on holiday for over a decade before I embarked on this trip, so suffice to say I had high expectations! Costa Rica had been on my list ever since a colleague visited the country two years ago, and it was well worth the wait. We were fortunate enough to only have eight travellers, which meant that our guide, Jonathan, had ample time to answer all of our questions.
If you are looking for a holiday which will give you eight hours of sleep a night then this trip is not for you. We were up for breakfast before 8am every day and despite there being several optional extra activities listed on the trip notes, we didn't have time to do any of them as we were constantly on the go! I felt as though I was away for six months or more, and I enjoyed moving to a new area of the country every few days. Each hotel we stayed at had a different style suited to the area of the country we were in - rainforest lodge, spa resort, mountain hotel, ranch, beach hotel. The food was wonderful - all breakfasts are included and on the days when our lunch and/or dinner weren't included, we never felt hungry.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Rincon de la Vieja Vol
San Jose, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Carrillo, Tortuguero National Park, Sarapiqui, La Fortuna, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
This was a challenging trip with a mixture of hard and easy cycling covering a number of different areas of this beautiful country. We had a good mixed group who gelled together very quickly and which made the time together very enjoyable. The trip covered many beautiful areas of Costa Rica with many opportunities to see the wild life and dramatic land and sea scapes.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Manuel Antonio Nationa
San Jose, Manuel Antonio National Park, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna, La Garita De Alajuela, Rio Tarcoles, Playa Dominical, Osa Peninsula, Las Cruces, San Gerardo De Rivas, Orosi, Turrialba
I wanted to start by saying thank you so much for such a thorough, comprehensive plan for our stay in your lovely country. From the start of working with you, I felt as though everything was covered. Your itinerary to us was easy to read, easy to share, and filled with enough information to get us excited about the visit. Then, the pacing of the entire trip seemed to be a perfect fit for my family. I already foresee us returning to experience Costa Rica again, based solely on the trip you crafted for us. We are quite grateful.
AdventureNational parks
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-65 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Manuel Antonio National Park, La
Manuel Antonio National Park, La Fortuna, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, San Jose, Arenal, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Juan Santamaria
Tropical cloud forests alive with jungle melodies and native wildlife, vast freshwater lakes and active volcanoes, historic cities and shared moments with locals – this pocket of Central America is a slice of paradise. On this 16-day Central American journey, take in all the must-visit spots like Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. You’ll spot colourful birds and see how indigo dying works in Suchitoto, explore the World Heritage-listed ruins of Copan, stand in the shadow of mighty Arenal Volcano and spot sloths among the canopy of Monteverde. This adventure is perfect for those who like to experience a destination 'la forma natural' (the natural way).
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Antigua, Granada, La F
San Jose, Antigua, Granada, La Fortuna, Leon, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, Copan, Suchitoto, La Libertad, Granada
27% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Great trip but itinerary could be improved. Only one night in Saraquipi in a lovely lodge which would have been better for 2 nights. One night in Arenal would have been sufficient.
Will still use Explore in the future and recommend
Active and outdoorWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort, Eco Lodge
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Manuel Ant
San Jose, La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio National Park, Manuel Antonio, San Gerardo De Dota, Savegre Cloud Forest, Turrialba, Pacuare River, Tortuguero National Park, Sarapiqui
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Explore incredible worlds above and below the water through some of Central America's best on this 45-day adventure. Amble down the Yucatan Peninsula to the island paradise of Caye Caulker, then cut inland to the lush jungle around Tikal, cruise to the wide river Rio Dulce and end up among the clouds in Panajachel and Antigua. Continue to the relaxing beach vibes of the Pacific Coast of El Salvador, spot colourful birds perched on the historic facades of Suchitoto and explore the historic cities of Leon and Granada in Nicaragua. Stand in the shadow of mighty Arenal Volcano and spot sloths among the canopy of Monteverde, then admire the towns and steamy jungles of Costa Rice and Panama, stopping off at the stunning islands of Bocas del Toro. With plenty of moments to meet the locals and try the region’s varied cuisines, you can’t go wrong on this carefree Central American journey.
WildlifeCity sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut, Lodge
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Panama City, Playa Del Carmen, R
Panama City, Playa Del Carmen, Rio Dulce, Antigua, Quetzaltenango, Panajachel, Tulum, Copan, Suchitoto, La Libertad, Leon, Granada, Monteverde, La Fortuna, San Jose, Sarapiqui, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Bocas Del Toro, Caye Caulker, Boquete, Chitre, San Ignacio, Flores
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Join us on this four-hour tour that takes you to one of the most popular birdwatching destinations in Costa Rica. We will meet you at your hotel at 5:15 am and drive you to Arenal Mundo Aventura Natural Park, where we will reach at around 5:30 am.
Follow the circuit trail that takes you through a varied landscape including a dense forest, a regenerating forest with pastures and open areas and small streams that allow the observation of a variety of colorful birds.
Among the most common birds that can be seen in this place are the great kiskadee, yellow tyrannulet, Montezuma oropendola, wing-barred seedeater, tropical kingbird, red-billed pigeon and the groove-billed ani. In addition to these, this place is also home to less common resident species such as the slaty spinetail, which makes an elaborate nest upon an impressive platform of twigs; and the laughing falcon, a large hawk whose presence is an indicator of a healthy environment.
You might even spot a black-cheeked woodpecker and Guianan trogons. Among the aquatic birds in the natural park are the uniform crake and the white-throated crake. The walk will come to an end at around 9:30 am. There is a 30-minute break for a delicious continental breakfast accompanied by juice, fruit and hot coffee.
If you prefer a more technical tour that include other types of birds as well, you can choose between nine alternate options and go for a semi-private tour. We will assign a specialized guide by reservation. Among the additional options we offer are birdwatching at Lake Arenal, Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, Danaus Ecocenter, El Silencio Reserve, Juan Castro Blanco Cloud Forest and Children’s Eternal Rainforest.
Get ready for a 27-day adventure through Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. From oceans teeming with marine life to tropical forests alive with jungle melodies, this pocket of Central America is truly a natural paradise. You’ll explore the intricately carved structures at Copan, the cloud forests of Monteverde and spend three nights in the island paradise of Bocas del Toro. Sample varied cuisines along the way during cooking lessons with locals, giving you a real insight into the heart and soul of Central America.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Panama City, San Jose, Antigua
Panama City, San Jose, Antigua, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Cahuita National Park, Granada, Monteverde, La Fortuna, Sarapiqui, Copan, Bocas Del Toro, Boquete, Chitre, Suchitoto, El Cuco, Leon
Embark on thrilling adventure through Costa Rica’s rainforests, volcanoes and beaches, where wildlife waits around every corner. This nine-day Premium journey will see you uncover the local secrets of San Jose, explore the wild wetlands of Cano Negro, witness the biodiversity of Monteverde and search for sloths in Manuel Antonio. A local leader will take you beneath Costa Rica’s lush surface and show you the country at its very best. Costa Rica’s natural wonders have etched it a place on the map, but you’ll soon discover its cherished traditions and welcoming people are every bit as endearing.
Rainforest and jungle visits
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Manuel Antonio National Park
32% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Discover the country that encapsulates ‘pura vida’ (the simple life) on this 10-day exploration of Costa Rica. Perfect for all nature lovers and wildlife seekers, this trip will have you walking through the national parks of Arenal Volcano and Manuel Antonio for rainforest, waterfall and beach views and joining an Indigenous Terraba community to learn about local culture. Wander through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, filled with butterflies. Visit an organic family-owned farm producing some of the best coffee in the world. And search for the resplendent quetzal (and maybe a cheeky sloth, too) in Quetzles National Park, getting off the tourist trail with a local naturalist guide.
BeachTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Lodge, Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio, Copey District
Dive into Central America on this 48-day adventure, bookended by two chaotic capitals and filled with fun, adventure and culture. Journey through Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica on an adventure through the tantalising highlights of the region. Get acquainted with Central American cultures, spectacular landscapes and fascinating histories as you explore the wealth of ancient ruins, spot the range of unusual wildlife and relax on idyllic Caribbean shores. This is one of our longest adventures through Central America – a trip that zig-zags from the top of the Yucatan peninsula to the highlands of Costa Rica.
WildlifeCustom private toue
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut, Lodge
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Mexico City, San Jose, Palenque
Mexico City, San Jose, Palenque, Merida, Playa Del Carmen, Chetumal, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, Flores, Rio Dulce, Antigua, Panajachel, San Juan La Laguna, Puebla, Copan, Suchitoto, El Cuco, Leon, Granada, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, La Fortuna, Oaxaca, Tehuantepec, San Cristobal De Las Casas
Grab this opportunity to visit to some of the most spectacular lagoons in Costa Rica during a one-day tour. Leave La Fortuna at around 7:30 am and drive for 1.5 hours through the plains of San Carlos, located on the outskirts of Juan Castro Blanco National Park, until you reach the Hule Lagoon. On arrival, prepare for your hike to the volcanic lagoons. Start your journey through the pastures that border the forest of the volcanic caldera where the Hule Lagoon is located.
Popularly referred to as the Hule Lagoon, this beautiful lagoon is spread over an area of 55 hectares (136 acres) and is located at the base of the Cerro Congo Volcano, 11 km (6.83 miles) away from the famous Poas Volcano. This area is renowned for its excellent trekking trails due to the variety of sceneries and terrain it offers, ranging from clay to dirt, volcanic rocks and grasslands.
Travel through a rainforest during your descent. Enjoy incredible views of primary and secondary lagoons along your way. Along the 8 km (5 miles) circuit trail, you will visit 2 of the 3 most important lagoons of the area, ranging from 15 to 55 hectares in surface area.
After this amazing and intense 3-4 hour hike, you will arrive at the main observation point, where you can savor a delicious, traditional Costa Rican lunch.
Road tripTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
We originally looked at booking the longer Costa Rica Family Adventure as we thought the Family Escape (at 7 nights) may be too much of a whirlwind. However, we liked the fact that there were less distances to travel (as the Family Escape does not include a visit to the Caribbean coast), and that there were more activities included, plus, on enquiry, we found out that on the dates we wished to travel the families booked onto this trip had children of similar ages to our own (16 and 12). We are so pleased we went for this option! From being met at the airport by our wonderful guide, Eduardo, and driver, Cesar, to being waved off as we boarded our transfer on the last day, we enjoyed every minute of our holiday!
Costa Rica is an incredible country and this trip gives you a sense of its diverstiy - from the volcanic landscape around Arenal, to the Cloud Forest at Monteverde, and the tropical beaches of Carillo. The mix of activities is great - from the high adrenaline rafting and zip wire course at Monteverde, to fascinating nature walks and wildlife spotting. The itinery is quite pacy - there are activities most days, however, you get at least 2 nights at each hotel (apart from in San Jose) so you do get chance to unpack a little and enjoy some downtime.
The hotels all offer something different: Los Lagos at La Fortuna is set in lush tropical gardens with its own resident crocodile and butterfly and insect houses. Plus, it has its own hot springs complete with water slides which our children loved. The Country Lodge at Monteverde is a little more basic, but charming, whilst the Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows are super stylish with spacious rooms and a stunning pool area.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
9-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Carrillo Beach