8-Nights Independent Costa Rica Wonders With Tortuguero - Independent Tour from $2,279

Independent Costa Rica Wonders With Tortuguero

Day 1: ARRIVE IN SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA
Welcome to Costa Rica! Be greeted by a Globus representative and transfer to the hotel where rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Please note:
Information about tomorrow’s adventure will be provided by the Globus representative.



Day 2: SAN JOSÉ–TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Begin the day transferring east into the lush lowlands of Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean region, passing through the verdant evergreen mountains and dramatic landscapes of Braulio Carrillo National Park. Upon reaching the Caribbean side, continue to Caño Blanco Dock, where you’ll board a boat and glide into the heart of Tortuguero National Park. Cruise along serene jungle canals, surrounded by dense rainforest and offering opportunities to observe the region’s remarkable flora and wildlife. After arriving at your lodge, enjoy a brief orientation followed by lunch. In the afternoon, visit the village of Tortuguero to gain insight into local life and learn about the vital conservation initiatives dedicated to protecting the sea turtles that nest each year along the park’s 22 miles of protected coastline. (B,L,D)






Day 3: TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
This morning, embark on a leisurely boat excursion through the park’s remote and pristine waterways as your expert guide brings the rainforest to life with insight into its rich ecology. With the keen eyes of your guide and boatman, watch for freshwater turtles, caimans, herons, toucans, egrets, and playful monkeys along the water’s edge. Later, enjoy a guided walk through an accessible section of the nearby rainforest for a closer look at this remarkable ecosystem. During peak nesting season (mid-July to mid-October), you may be fortunate enough to witness the extraordinary sight of an endangered green turtle coming ashore under the cover of night to lay her eggs. This afternoon, deepen your understanding of the region during an engaging presentation by a local naturalist focused on the area’s unique ecology and conservation efforts. (B,L,D)








Day 4: TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK–ARENAL
Today, travel by boat and car to the lush town of Arenal, set dramatically beneath the iconic Arenal Volcano. After settling in, take time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of your resort. This afternoon, visit the renowned hot springs for which the region is famous, soaking in naturally heated mineral pools nestled within dense tropical forest. The day concludes with dinner at the hot springs, offering a serene and rejuvenating end to your journey into this remarkable landscape. (B,L,D)




Day 5: ARENAL
Today is free with the freedom to explore independently or choose from a selection of optional excursions to further personalize your experience. (B)


INSIDER PICKS
Perhaps visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a network of suspension bridges, platforms, and trails built in the cloud forest. From here, explore the forest canopy with a bird’s-eye view, giving you a different perspective of the local wildlife. Alternatively, you may choose a rafting or horseback riding adventure.



Day 6: ARENAL–MONTEVERDE
This morning, begin your transfer with a scenic boat journey across Arenal Lake, offering opportunities to observe the many bird species that inhabit the shoreline and surrounding forests. Continue onward through spectacular mountain landscapes into the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest, an extraordinary ecosystem home to more than 3,000 plant species, along with an impressive diversity of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. This evening, return to the cloud forest just before nightfall to set out with an expert naturalist on a guided walk in search of nocturnal wildlife, including sloths, foxes, agoutis, frogs, and other fascinating creatures that emerge after dark. (B)





Day 7: MONTEVERDE
Enjoy the day at leisure, with the flexibility to relax at your own pace, or select from a variety of optional experiences should you wish to explore further. (B)

INSIDER PICKS
Awaken early to visit the eye-opening beauty of Santa Elena Cloud Forest for the best chance to observe animals in their natural forest habitats. Discover this misty and surreal wildlife sanctuary full of mosses, ferns, flowers, and other indigenous plant life. You’ll also notice how the combination of climatic and geographic factors creates temperature and humidity gradients, changing dramatically over just a short distance. Alternatively, you could visit a local family’s farm to learn about sugar cane, coffee, and tilapia farming.



Day 8: MONTEVERDE–SAN JOSÉ
Return to San José for your final night in Costa Rica. Enjoy a relaxed evening to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey.

INSIDER PICKS
Perhaps visit one of Costa Rica’s most authentic markets, the San José Central Market, which features more than 350 booths selling everything imaginable, from spices and fish to hammocks and flowers.



Day 9: SAN JOSÉ
Your vacation ends after breakfast this morning.

(B)