8-day luxury itinerary
Whether you’re booking your trip independently or through a travel advisor, here are helpful ideas of special and memorable experiences in Costa Rica.
day 1
arrive in san josé
Upscale, boutique hotels offer an array of modern amenities and are within walking distance to the most desirable restaurants and attractions.
day 2
explore san josé
Costa Rica’s capital is humming with energy. See the city through the eyes of a local guide who can tailor your day to your interests. Marvel over the architecture of Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica and the prized artifacts at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. Go local with a ‘casado’ lunch (a soulful mixed plate of meat or fish with rice and beans and a salad). After a day of exploring around downtown’s main attractions, enjoy fine dining where chefs have put a spin on local cuisine and retreat for a restful night before your next adventures.
days 3–4
discover tortuguero
Wild and remote, Tortuguero National Park is only accessible by a plane ride from San José or driving to La Pavona (or Moin in Limon) and boarding a boat. Catch sight of the famous sea turtles that reside on these shores (nesting season is July through October), and take a canal cruise that meanders through landscapes where sloths, monkeys and toucans reside. A stay in a luxury resort puts you in the heart of this coastal Caribbean paradise.
days 5–6
visit arenal volcano
Your journey continues to Fortuna in the northwestern part of Costa Rica. This small town stands in the shadow of Arenal Volcano, where luxury ecolodge and wellness resorts thrive. Soak away your stresses in hot mineral springs, enjoy a soothing massage and dine with clear views of Arenal before you. Amp up your adrenaline on a guided excursion where you’ll take in extraordinary views on a zip line through the forest canopy.
days 6–7
papagayo peninsula
The world’s most celebrated resorts have found their home in the Papagayo Peninsula, a breathtaking coastal region on the northwest corner of Guanacaste. Relax on unspoiled Pacific beaches and explore deeper in the nearby rainforest. Choose outdoor excursions like an evening paddle on Papagayo Bay that reveals a sparkling underwater dance of bioluminescence, or a sunset cruise capped off with a multicourse meal made by an onboard chef.
day 8
return to san josé
After a last walk on the beach and enjoying a leisurely breakfast where fresh fruit is the star, prepare to return to San José. Liberia International Airport is just a short flight back to the capital, or you can travel by car with your driver leading the way.