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Costa Rica, San José

The Essence of Costa Rica 4*

Road tripDiscovery

Deal negotiated for you

  • The 12 days and 11 nights tour in the specified accommodation or similar
  • Board according to programme
  • Flights departing from the city of your choice
  • Private transfer from airport to hotel
  • The car hire of a Toyota Yaris Cross during the self-drive tour from day 4
  • Welcome and assistance on arrival at the airport
  • Visit to Tortuguero, canal boat trip and jungle exploration with an English or Spanish-speaking guide
Customise your trip on the Options page.

Your stay starts here

The Essence of Costa Rica 4*

Set off on an unforgettable self-drive tour through the most iconic landscapes of Costa Rica. This journey combines total freedom behind the wheel with carefully chosen stops, offering a complete immersion in both the country’s spectacular nature and its rich local culture. From the lively capital San José to the paradise beaches of the Pacific, passing by the majestic Arenal Volcano, the cloud forest of Monteverde, and the tropical canals of Tortuguero — each stop promises new discoveries and unforgettable emotions.

With a perfect balance between guided experiences and independent exploration, this itinerary lets you experience Costa Rica at your own pace, without compromising on comfort, adventure, or relaxation.

Your day-by-day itinerary:

Day 1: San José
Day 2: San José – Tortuguero
Day 3: Tortuguero
Day 4: Tortuguero – Arenal
Days 5 & 6: La Fortuna, Arenal
Day 7: La Fortuna, Arenal – Monteverde
Day 8: Monteverde
Day 9: Monteverde – Manuel Antonio
Days 10 & 11: Manuel Antonio
Day 12: Manuel Antonio – San José

Your detailed itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in San José

Upon your arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport, you will be greeted by one of our local representatives.

They will provide you with all the necessary information and ensure a smooth start to your journey.

Depart in a private transfer to your first hotel.

Hotel: 5-star Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola (or similar)

Day 2 - From San José to Tortuguero

Early departure for Tortuguero.

At the agreed time, meet up at your hotel reception for the departure in a semi-collective transfer to the splendid Tortuguero region, located in the north of the Costa Rican Caribbean.

Tortuguero National Park, a jewel in the crown of Costa Rica's ecotourism offerings, was established in 1970 to safeguard the endangered marine turtles that come ashore to lay their eggs. This exceptional area, consisting of a vast network of canals, rivers and lagoons, boasts a variety of ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests to freshwater and marine environments — a paradise for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Along the way, there will be a stopover in Guápiles to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast in a private local restaurant. The journey then continues to the pier, where you will embark on a pleasant boat trip to Tortuguero. This water-borne journey is an immersive introduction to the rainforest: marvel at the lush hues of the landscape and the richness of the surrounding wildlife.

Welcome to Tortuguero

On arrival at the lodge, check in, make yourself comfortable in your room and enjoy a tasty breakfast.

In the afternoon, explore the charming village of Tortuguero with your local guide. This unique village of around 500 inhabitants is nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the park's peaceful canals. There are no cars here, only footpaths that add to the peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Stroll through the colourful alleyways, interact with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this captivating island community.

Estimated journey time: around 3 hours by road and 1h30 by boat.

Journey times are given as a rough guide and may vary depending on the passenger's port of embarkation or disembarkation.

Note: The order of activities in Tortuguero may vary depending on how the lodge is organised.

Lodge: 4-star Evergreen Lodge (or similar)

Day 3 - Visit to Tortuguero National Park

Wake up early for an unforgettable morning in the heart of nature. At first light, meet your guide for a boat trip through the superb canals of Tortuguero National Park (admission fee included).

As the jungle comes alive with the sounds of birds and other wildlife, allow the magical atmosphere of sunrise to sweep you away. Hold your camera ready to capture spectacular scenes as you glide silently over calm waters through a labyrinth of canals, lagoons and lush rainforests, accompanied by a passionate naturalist guide.

Tortuguero is one of the country's most important biodiversity sanctuaries. It is home to 57 species of amphibian, 111 species of reptile, and 60 species of mammal. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, sloths, caimans, toucans, macaws and iguanas, among many other fascinating creatures, roaming freely in this unique ecosystem.

Back at the lodge, enjoy a well-earned breakfast in peaceful surroundings.

In the morning, at an agreed time, your guide will lead you on a walk through the lodge's private trails. Along the way, you may encounter monkeys, sloths, toucans, frogs and a wide variety of exotic plants. This hike is ideal for nature lovers who want to get up close and personal with the beauty and wonders of the Costa Rican rainforest.

The rest of the day is free to enjoy the last afternoon in Tortuguero.

Hotel: 4-star Evergreen Lodge (or similar)

Day 4 - Departure to La Fortuna, Arenal

After breakfast, check out of your room and get ready to continue your adventure. You will leave Tortuguero on a combined boat and land transfer to Guápiles.

The journey takes around two hours, although this may vary depending on the port of embarkation or disembarkation used.

On arrival in Guápiles, you will be served a traditional Costa Rican lunch in a local restaurant. There, at around 1 pm, a representative of the hire company will meet you to hand over your hire car. He or she will also provide you with all the information you need to set off with peace of mind.

You will then begin your self-drive to La Fortuna, a small town at the foot of the majestic Arenal volcano. The journey takes around two hours and takes you through the verdant landscapes typical of Costa Rica's northern region.

Before December 2010, Arenal was one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world, offering an impressive natural spectacle with its incandescent lava flows and plumes of ash. Although volcanic activity has subsided, the site remains a must-see, with its imposing silhouette and occasional fumaroles.

On arrival in La Fortuna, check into your hotel and then enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax, explore the surroundings or simply appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Hotel: 3-star Montaña De Fuego Hotel and Spa (or similar)

Days 5 and 6 - Explore and enjoy Arenal at your own pace

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by free time to relax or explore the Arenal region at your own pace.

Whether you prefer to bathe in natural hot springs, hike the trails of the Arenal volcano, visit the La Fortuna waterfall, go rafting on the Balsa River or zip-line through the forest, there's something for everyone.

La Fortuna offers the perfect blend of nature and adventure for an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica's most picturesque regions.

Hotel: 3-star Montaña De Fuego Hotel and Spa (or similar)

Day 7 - From La Fortuna to Monteverde

Have breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to Monteverde, a magical cloud forest renowned for its misty atmosphere and rich biodiversity.

This unique destination combines tranquillity, adventure and culture. Explore suspension bridges, zip-line through the canopy, take part in cultural and culinary experiences, or discover wildlife on a night walk.

Monteverde offers unforgettable experiences for all types of travellers.

Boutique Hotel: 4-star Sibu Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Day 8 - Monteverde

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy a leisurely day exploring Monteverde at your leisure.

Discover the magic of the cloud forest with zip-lining, suspension bridges, cultural experiences or an evening walk.

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Monteverde promises a day full of wonder and unforgettable moments.

Boutique Hotel: 4-star Sibu Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Day 9 - From Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

After breakfast and check-out, leave the rainforest behind and head for Manuel Antonio, a charming coastal village in the heart of Costa Rica's Pacific coast.

Renowned for its lush vegetation, pristine beaches and diverse wildlife, Manuel Antonio is the ideal place to combine relaxation, adventure and nature discovery.

On arrival, make yourself comfortable at your hotel, then take advantage of your free time to relax by the pool, explore the village or stroll along its heavenly beaches.

Lodge: 4-star Si Como No Resort, Spa & Wildlife Refuge (or similar)

Days 10 and 11 - Manuel Antonio

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy some free time to explore Manuel Antonio.

Go hiking in the national park to see exceptional wildlife and enjoy beautiful beaches, or choose from a range of optional activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, surfing or a catamaran trip.

If you prefer a more leisurely day, sit back on the beach and take in the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.

Lodge: 4-star Si Como No Resort, Spa & Wildlife Refuge (or similar)

Day 12 - From Manuel Antonio to San José Airport

Farewell to Costa Rica!

Last breakfast at the hotel, then departure and return by car to the hire agency near the airport.

Drive your hire car to the Belén hire agency, located near San José airport. Once there, return your vehicle and complete the necessary paperwork.

After drop-off, a shared shuttle will take you from the hire agency to the airport, ensuring a smooth transition for your return flight.

We recommend that you book your departure flights for after 1 p.m.

End of the trip.

Your accommodation

During your stay, you will be accommodated as follows:

  • San José: 1 night at the 5-star Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola (or similar)
  • Tortuguero: 2 nights at the 4-star Evergreen Lodge (or similar)
  • La Fortuna: 3 nights at the 3-star Montaña De Fuego Hotel and Spa (or similar)
  • Monteverde: 2 nights at the 4-star Sibu Boutique Hotel (or similar)
  • Quepos : 2 nights at the 4-star Si Como No Resort, Spa & Wildlife Refuge (or similar)

Your board

During your stay, you will enjoy the breakfast package and then the full board offer from lunch on day 2 to lunch on day 4.

Your car hire

  • Car hire type: Toyota Yaris Cross from day 4 to day 12
  • Maximum capacity: 5 people
  • Only vehicle hire is included (compulsory insurance must be paid directly to the hire company)
  • Unlimited mileage
  • 24-hour assistance service
  • Map of Costa Rica included
  • 1 main driver and 1 additional driver

Terms and conditions:

  • Minimum age: 25 years
  • Drivers aged between 21 and 25: additional charge of US$10 per day
  • Driving licence: must be valid at the time of presentation of the document
  • Passport: must be valid for at least 6 months before expiry date
  • Credit card: a VISA, MASTERCARD or AMERICAN EXPRESS card in the driver's name is required (direct debit cards are not accepted)

Information

Information on luggage

  • Hand luggage: considered as authorised cabin luggage if it meets the following criteria:
  • Maximum dimensions: 50 cm x 40 cm x 30 cm (i.e. 120 cm in total for height + width + depth)
  • Maximum weight: 4.5 kg for hand luggage and 18 kg for checked luggage.

Excess luggage and dimensions

  • Excess weight: if a passenger's luggage exceeds the authorised limit, SANSA will charge a supplement for each additional kilo, depending on the fare chosen.
  • Excess luggage: any luggage exceeding the authorised dimensions may or may not be carried on the same flight as the passenger, depending on the space available on board the aircraft.

Special conditions

In the event of flight changes due to weather conditions or any other circumstance beyond the control of the representative, the company cannot be held responsible for any supplements or additional costs not included in the fare indicated. Any additional costs relating to additional transfers will be charged to the passenger.

Transport included
This price includes :
  • The 12 days and 11 nights tour in the specified accommodation or similar.
  • Car hire of a Toyota Yaris Cross during the self-drive tour starting from day 4
  • Board according to itinerary
  • Private transfer from the airport to the hotel
  • Visit to Tortuguero, canal boat trip and jungle exploration with an English or Spanish-speaking guide
  • Welcome and assistance on arrival at the airport
  • Booking fees
  • Flights departing from the city of your choice
  • Mandatory airport taxes
This price does not include :
  • Local taxes
  • Personal insurance (unless taken out at time of booking)
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Meals and drinks not mentioned in the description
  • Excursions not included in the booking or purchased separately
  • And, more generally, everything not mentioned in the "This price includes" section above

Useful information

Useful information

Practical details

If you are travelling alone, you will be asked to pay a surcharge for a single room. This additional charge will be automatically included in your quote.
Child rates will be applied for children from 2 to 12 years old in the case where the child shares the room with two adults. If the child is travelling with just one adult, the surcharge may be applied on an adult basis. If your child or children do not fit into the age group mentioned above, the rate will be communicated to you at the time of processing your order. If the room is equipped with a bunk bed, the bed height is not suitable for children under 6 years of age.
For safety reasons, the wellbeing facilities of most establishments are not accessible to children under 16 years old. Similarly, it is possible that some amenities or services require an additional charge or are unavailable for exceptional reasons.
Unless otherwise stated in the service description, activities and any additional services available at destination are provided in the language of the destination country and in English.
The opening times and hours of the activities, restaurants and bars are provided as an indication only and may be subject to change. Contact the reception desk in order to be informed of any changes.
Appropriate dress is required. We remind you that gambling may involve risks of isolation, indebtedness, and dependency...
Any additional special requirements the traveller may request which are not included in the travel service description will be communicated to our service provider. Sending this information does not imply acceptance and PerfectStay.com cannot be held responsible for the fulfilment of these special requests. Only the service provider of PerfectStay.com can access this request on location and any additional costs may be paid locally by the traveller.
Unless expressly stated in the description of the services and accommodation, the hotel is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Travel documents

Once your reservation has been made, you will receive a confirmation e-mail before your travel documents are sent.
Regarding the transport documents (in the case of a reservation with transport included), we will provide you with all the information relating to check-in and luggage in the "Your travel documents" email, allowing you to leave with peace of mind.
To take advantage of all your reserved services (hotels, transfers, activities, etc.), you will receive one or more exchange vouchers to be presented to each supplier.
The contact details of the establishment will be specified in these documents, to help make your arrival at your destination as straight-forward as possible.

Transportation

Choose an offer and, according to your preferences, opt for a seat in economy, business or first class.
See the 'View flight info' section for details on each trip.
In order to best organise your time in the airport, we advise that you arrive 2 hours before boarding for a medium-haul flight, or 3 hours before boarding for a long-haul flight (more than 5 hours). Take advantage of your early arrival to pass through security and check your luggage.
You will be informed whether or not luggage is included at the time of your booking.
You will have the opportunity to add additional luggage for a fee.
There are several different cities that are typically offered as departure points. Your arrival destination will show in your travel documents.
Depending on the flight schedule, some arrivals or returns may be made at night with early arrival or late departure. You will not always be able to have your room available immediately and will need to refer to the check-in and check-out conditions of the hotel.
In the event that your transfer is not included in your hotel reservation, it may be offered at the time of your reservation as an additional option. Unless specifically mentioned, transfers may be made in groups of 15 to 55 people.
Important: the modification or the cancellation of a booking is only possible within the limits and including the fees outlined in our general conditions of sale.
Thank you for kindly taking note of the CO2 emissions produced by your means of transport: https://www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx

Formalities

The following details apply to any British citizen who, during a trip sold by PerfectStay goes to a foreign country. The following is a resource directing you to information related to your travel formalities (identification documents, vaccines, VISA, safety, travel advice, etc.), and may be subject to change. Please note that Brexit negotiations are likely to include travel document modifications, therefore please regularly check most updated information. Please see official resource for British citizens wishing to travel:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

The official UK Foreign Travel site has updates on safety and security, including incidents such as pickpocketing and robbery, along with larger incidents such as measuring the risk of terrorism.
Detailed country by country here:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

If you are travelling with minors, please be sure to verify whether or not you will require a consent: https://www.gov.uk/permission-take-child-abroad

Please note that these details serve as a guiding resource in order to ensure that you have access to important information in order to pursue the necessary travel formalities required before travelling abroad with PerfectStay. Please note that PerfectStay will not engage in obtaining travel documents for you, such as visas, and you are solely responsible for knowing the potential health risks you may face in the course of your travels for which you may require vaccinations or medications. PerfectStay is not responsible for ensuring your travel formalities are properly undertaken and will only act as an intermediary directing you to resources which have been known to provide reliable information concerning travel formalities specific to British citizens.

Vaccination

For information concerning travel health requirements (vaccinations, health risks, etc.) please see the following resources:
https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries
https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations.aspx
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/travel-vaccinations/

Visa

For the latest information on which travel documents (visas, passports, etc.) British citizens will require by destination, please see the following resources:
https://visacentral.co.uk/visa-quick-check
https://www.passportindex.org/comparebyPassport.php?p1=uk&fl=&s=yes
https://www.travisa.com/Visa_Search

Identity

Please be sure to verify that your necessary Identification documents (passport and/or ID card dependent upon the country to which you will be travelling) have valid expiration dates, i.e. verify your ID documents have not yet expired. Also, be sure to remember to bring these necessary documents with you. It is also recommended to make copies of all travel documents in the event of an emergency.

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All the holidays offers displayed on this website are financially protected by the ABTA and ATOL schemes.
They are sold by ATOL (#11475) and ABTA (#Y6608) holder Perfectstay Travel Ltd.

ATOL number 11475

All the flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. The flight-inclusive holidays displayed on this website are sold by ATOL (#11475) holder Perfectstay Travel Ltd. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: https://www.caa.co.uk

ABTA number Y6608

As a member of ABTA (#Y6608), you can be assured that you are receiving the highest level of service and are offered excellent choice and value. If your holiday is not inclusive of flights then ABTA will financially protect your holiday similar to ATOL, unless you are already abroad in which case you be returned to the point where your contracted arrangements with us commenced. Find out more: http://www.abta.com