Highlights
Traverse Costa Rica from the Central Highlands to the Caribbean coast using multiple modes of travel
Cycle and trek through volcanic landscapes, cloud forest and rural coffee-growing regions
Visit remote Indigenous communities and gain insight into traditional ways of life
Spot wildlife such as sloths, monkeys and tropical birdlife in one of the world’s most biodiverse environments
Raft the Pacuare River through rainforest gorges on an exhilarating stretch of whitewater, then continue by kayak to the Caribbean Sea
Explore San José, known for its lively markets, local cuisine and mix of historic and contemporary city life
Explore San José, known for its lively markets, local cuisine and mix of historic and contemporary city life
Itinerary
Ready for a true test of endurance and spirit? The Costa Rica Traverse is a 12-day trekking and hiking trip that takes you from the Pacific Coast to the Caribbean Sea entirely under your own power. Starting and ending in San Jose, this challenging adventure is tailored for experienced travelers eager to cross the country’s spectacular wildernesses on bike, foot, raft, and kayak.
Traverse ever-changing landscapes, from lush farmlands and mountainous rainforest trails to indigenous settlements hidden deep in the cloud forest. The journey features numerous river crossings and slippery trails, all leading to rare wildlife encounters and the chance to interact with local communities.
A highlight of this trip—and its unique selling point—is the exhilarating descent of the Pacuare River, one of the world’s classic whitewater rafting experiences, with class 2–4 rapids slicing through dramatic canyons. After the thrill of the rapids, you’ll switch gears to sea kayaking along tranquil river sections, gliding past banana plantations en route to the Caribbean.
This tour package is not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking a physically demanding, multi-sport adventure that reveals Costa Rica’s untamed beauty in all its variety. If you crave a trekking journey that combines hiking, biking, rafting, and kayaking—while crossing a country from coast to coast—this is the ultimate way to experience the wild side of Costa Rica.
day 1Arrive in San José
You will be met on arrival at San José International Airport (SJO) and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, there may be some time to explore the sights of San José, visit a local café, or relax after your flight
Overnight: San José Sleep Inn or similar
day 2San José to Quepos- Pacific Coast
day 3Cycling & Hiking from Pacific to Naranjillo
day 4Trekking “Cemetery Hill” to Santa María De Dota
day 5Cycling over the Continental Divide to Orosi Valley
day 6Cycle & Trek to Humo in Tapantí National Wildlife Refuge
day 7Cycling & Whitewater Rafting to El Nido del Tigre
day 8El Nido del Tigre on the Pacuare River
day 9Rafting the Pacuare River to Finca Pacuarito
day 10Cycling & Kayak to the Caribbean Sea and transfer to Cahuita
day 11Relax on the Caribbean and transfer to San José
day 12Trip concludes in San Jose
What's Included
Customer Reviews
I loved every moment of my trip! This was my first time travelling on a guided trip and it was a brilliant way to enjoy all that Costa Rica has to offer. The service from Chris prior to departure was excellent and the communication with Jeffery whilst en-route was reassuring (we had a hiccup with our bags missing our connecting flight to San Jose) and we slept well knowing our bags would reach us before leaving San Jose. Once the trip had begun it was quickly evident that Jeffery is a sensationally good guide, and with the aid of his support team we were well fed, watered and entertained throughout the trip. I would not hesitate to book another similar challenge through World Expeditions
Great all around trip. The guide (Jeff) was organized, attentive and fun to be around. Briefings each day were informative and useful. The food was excellent, camp sites were good. The rafting was very exhilarating. The equipment was in good condition and they were prepared for mishaps. We had bike chain break but they had spare bike readily available. You could push yourself as hard or as easy as you felt comfortable.
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Good to Know
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