Essential Costa Rica

Go in search of wildlife and wild rides on this essential introduction to Costa Rica. Adopting the national motto, pura vida (pure life), we delve into the astonishing diversity of the country with our expert guide leading the way. We spend time in the shadow of Arenal volcano, swim next to a jungle waterfall, and trek through the Monteverde cloud forest at night. We also take the Pan-Am Highway to Manuel Antonio, where we have a guided tour of the national park in search of mischievous monkeys and sedate sloths. By the end of our adventure, you will fully understand why Costa Rica was named the happiest country on the planet.

We spend eight nights in hotels and lodges, most of which have a swimming pool. The accommodations were chosen for their location and we aim to use family-run establishments as much as possible. Our list of preferred hotels is below:



San José: Auténtico Hotel (nights 1 and 8)







Our first and last nights in Costa Rica are spent at the Auténtico, which is just 25 minutes’ drive from the airport. There’s a courtyard pool for a post- or pre-flight dip and a breakfast buffet every morning (normally with the national favourite gallo pinto). There’s also a happy hour at the bar (5pm-7pm) – you might like to try a guaro sour, a Costa Rican classic.



La Fortuna: Eco Arenal (nights 2-3)







There’s a view of Arenal volcano right from the restaurant at Eco Arenal. And thanks to the river that borders the hotel, there are also plenty of other things to spot, including sloths, plenty of birdlife and exotic frogs. Head to the gardens and you’ll find a swimming pool lined with sun loungers and palm trees.



Monteverde: Montaña Monteverde (nights 4-5)







Right next to a private forest with trails to explore, Montaña Monteverde has 42 rooms and some wonderful views. There’s also a bar and restaurant serving homecooked Costa Rican cuisine.



Manuel Antonio: Villa Bosque Hotel or Tabulia Tree Hotel (nights 6-7)







Just 655ft (200m) from Manuel Antonio National Park, the 19-room Villa Bosque Hotel (above) has a small pool, bar and restaurant. It also runs various projects to help the local community, including beach clean-ups, reforestation and environmental education. On some departures, we stay at the Tabulia Tree Hotel instead. It also has a swimming pool and is home to the Bambu Jam restaurant-bar, where you can sip cold beers, guaro-based cocktails and fruit smoothies.



Worth knowing



One or several of the named properties might be substituted for similar alternatives to secure hotel availability. Please discuss with your sales representative if you require more details regarding your specific departure date.