Navigate South America at your own pace. Browse our selection of 120 self-guided trips and tour packages through South America. Independent exploration offers a unique way to experience South America.
Physical Rating
Departures
Countries
Accommodations
Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
This trip is a dreamy experience that will take you through the wonders of the Costa Rican Caribbean and will leave you breathless at every step of the way!
Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of San José, the cosmopolitan capital that invites you to discover its cultural and gastronomic treasures.
Then, get ready to delve into the tropical jungle of Tortuguero, where you'll come face to face with the majesty of sea turtles nesting on the beach and venture on exciting excursions through the lush jungle canals.
But wait, there's more! In Puerto Viejo, you'll witness the unique fusion of Afro-Caribbean and Latin American cultures, while surrendering to the serenity of its white sand beaches and exploring the amazing biodiversity of the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.
This trip is much more than just a vacation; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of the Costa Rican Caribbean, where adventure, nature, and culture intertwine in an exciting journey that will leave an indelible impression on your heart.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Bungalow, Hotel
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Tortuguero National Park, Puerto
Tortuguero National Park, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, San Jose, Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo De Sarapiqui, Gandoca
This tour of Costa Rica will guide you through the natural wonders and breathtaking sights of this tropical gem! Begin your journey in San Jose, the famous capital, which is surrounded by evergreen mountains and valleys with plenty of cultural attractions. From there you will visit Tortuguero National Park, the nesting grounds of green sea turtles with its breathtaking beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds. Next, you will drive to Arenal, situated in the midst of an unspoiled setting where looming volcanoes and teeming rainforest await. Climb the Arenal Volcano and keep an eye out for some of the most famous bird and animal life in the country! Continue your tour to Monteverde which you will reach by boat. Explore the Cloud Forest and take one step closer to nature in this legendary destination! Your next stop will be in Tamarindo, one of the most famous beach and surf towns in Costa Rica. This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and cultivate your adventurous spirit. Head back to San Jose for your final destination on this tour of Costa Rica before you travel home!
Rainforest and jungle visits
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
San Jose, Tortuguero National Pa
San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Tamarindo Beach, Arenal Volcano, Tamarindo, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde
Embark on a leisurely journey through Costa Rica's most iconic national parks: Tortuguero and Manuel Antonio national parks. This privacy-focused trip allows ample time for exploration while ensuring you don't miss out on the natural wonders each destination offers.
Begin in Tortuguero, a remote paradise dubbed the "Amazon of Costa Rica." Here, immerse yourself in lush rainforests, winding waterways, and pristine beaches. Witness the nesting of endangered sea turtles, a rare spectacle found in few places around the globe.
Next, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its breathtaking beaches and abundant wildlife. Explore the trails of park, where monkeys swing through trees and colorful birds soar overhead. Relax on tranquil coves or venture into azure waters for a refreshing swim.
Throughout your journey, enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience filled with privacy, tranquility, and the beauty of Costa Rica's national parks.
Trekking and HikingVolcanoes
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Manuel Antonio National Park, To
Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano, San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal, Manuel Antonio
This full-day excursion is the perfect way to experience the charm of Ecuador's Otavalo Market and surrounding areas. Explore Otavalo, a vibrant city surrounded by picturesque mountains, to wander the market and admire all of its beautiful handicrafts. Continue to the nearby town of Cotacachi to browse the leather shops before a visit to Peguche Waterfall or Cuicocha Lake on the way back to Quito.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This day tour takes you to visit the archaeological site of Moray, the Maras Salt Mines and the town of Chinchero. With so much to see and do today, lace up those hiking shoes and don't forget your camera, as you prepare to make your way through some of Peru's most sought after sites.
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Explore Cotopaxi National Park with a full-day excursion. Admire the Cotopaxi volcano and the stunning plateau on which it sits — you might even see wild horses grazing! All ages are welcome to hike the glacier, and experienced cyclists can opt to bike.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This half-day walking tour of Lima's historical centre will immerse you in the culture of the city. See the incredible views from the top of a bell tower, admire stunning colonial architecture, and prepare to be fascinated by this city's history.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Immerse yourself in the essence of Costa Rica on this exciting 9-day journey that will take you to explore the natural beauty and majesty in the surrounding areas of four of the country's most prominent volcanoes: the imposing Irazú Volcano in Cartago, the majestic Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna area, thee intriguing Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in Guanacaste, and the famous Poás Volcano.
Get ready to embark on this adventure as you enjoy the landscapes full of biodiversity that only Costa Rica can offer.
In this volcano adventure trip, you will have the opportunity to visit some destinations with different volcano landscapes and hikes within the national parks.
Trekking and HikingVolcanoes
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-79 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Rincon
San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Poas Volcano, Irazú Volcano, Arenal, La Paz Waterfall, Juan Santamaria
This tour will show you the extraordinary wonders of Costa Rica. Begin your journey in San Jose, the heart of this Central American country surrounded by evergreen mountains and lush valleys. Visit Tortuguero National Park to uncover the natural wealth of Costa Rica, home to breathtaking beaches and vibrant green sea turtles. This is a wonderful place to spot local wildlife and birds. Next, you will drive to Arenal, situated in a truly unspoiled setting where looming volcanoes and teeming rainforests await. Climb the Arenal Volcano while keeping an eye out for some of the most famous animals in Costa Rica. Explore the Cloud Forest as you take one step closer to Mother Nature. Finally, you will travel to Tamarindo, one of the most famous beaches in Costa Rica. End your journey in this extraordinary surf town as you experience the bustling atmosphere and immerse yourself in the local culture while channeling your adventurous spirit.
Rainforest and jungle visits
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
San Jose, Tortuguero National Pa
San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Tamarindo Beach, Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde, Tamarindo
This full-day excursion takes you trekking along one of the most spectacular stretches of the Salkantay Trail to the turquoise glacial lagoon of Humantay. An active escape from the city, this day tour is a perfect way to soak in the views of the Andes and to breathe the clean mountain air.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers