Overview

Your Costa Rican adventure begins in the land of Pura Vida! Your Trek Travel guide will greet you at 9:00 AM in the lobby of Parque del Lago Hotel in San José. After a brief introduction, you'll set off on a scenic three-hour journey into the misty highlands and the heart of Costa Rica’s rainforest in Monteverde. A welcome lunch awaits at Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco, where your guide will then share a trip overview and essential safety tips. This afternoon, step into the tranquil Curicancha Reserve—a wildlife-rich sanctuary home to more than 200 bird species, playful monkeys, and peaceful forest trails. Tonight, gather for drinks and a delicious dinner at the hotel as we kick off an unforgettable week.

Overview

Start your day with birdsong and a hearty breakfast before taking a 30-minute shuttle to Los Bajos del Tigre forest. This sunlit, drier landscape offers a striking contrast to the misty cloud forest and reveals a different side of Costa Rica’s natural abundance. Descend into the forest on a trail that winds through lush vegetation to the valley floor, where a series of waterfalls and hanging bridges await. Cool off with a dip in the crystal-clear pools before a 4x4 shuttle takes you back up the mountain to a scenic lunch spot. Enjoy a traditional casado—a hearty Costa Rican dish featuring rice, beans, meat or fish and fried plantains. After lunch, return to Monteverde for a relaxed afternoon, then enjoy dinner on your own with recommendations from your guide.

Overview

This morning, set out to explore the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, a unique and ecologically rich corner of one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. This 310-hectare preserve—founded in 1992 and managed by the local public high school—features elevated walkways and mist-covered trails that wind through dense vegetation. Keep an eye on the canopy for toucans, howler monkeys, and the shimmering plumage of the elusive resplendent quetzal. After a casual lunch in Santa Elena, you’ll journey south toward the Nicoya Peninsula. A scenic 90-minute drive leads to the ferry crossing, where a boat ride delivers you straight to your next hotel on the Pacific Coast. Relax with sunset views before enjoying dinner at your leisure at the hotel.

Overview

Spend the morning your way—choose a paddleboard or kayak excursion across the calm waters of the Gulf of Nicoya, or unwind with an optional yoga session. Located in one of the world’s five Blue Zones, the Nicoya Peninsula is known for its focus on longevity, well-being, and deep connection to nature. Later, board a small boat to Isla Caballo, where you’ll try your hand at traditional handline fishing alongside a local captain, casting for snapper, mackerel, or sea bass. Then, share a heartfelt, home-cooked lunch with the captain’s family, rooted in generations of Costa Rican culinary tradition and highlighting local flavors with rice and the catch of the day. After this warm cultural exchange, return to the hotel for a relaxing evening, with dinner available on-site or a short taxi ride away.

Overview

Wake to the sound of waves and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before setting out by boat to San Lucas Island—Costa Rica’s newest national park. Once a penal colony, the island now offers a peaceful refuge for wildlife such as howler monkeys, coatis, and colorful birds. Hike through tropical dry forest trails that wind past the quiet remains of the island’s former prison—now a backdrop to a thriving ecosystem—and arrive at a secluded beach, ideal for a laid-back lunch and wildlife spotting. Enjoy a picnic lunch featuring fresh local fruits and refreshing tropical juices, before returning to the hotel for a dip in the pool or a moment of rest. As the sun sets, gather with your fellow travelers for a final social hour on the beach, followed by a farewell dinner celebration under the stars.

Overview

Enjoy breakfast on the terrace of the hotel before heading out on a walk to learn about the natural beauty of O'Pacífico, home to many species of birds along with armadillos, agoutis, white-faced monkeys, porcupines, and more. Soak in your last peaceful moments before your guide escorts you to the ferry at 11:15 AM. After the ferry ride, you'll transfer to the van for your return to San José. You'll say goodbye to your guide upon arrival—either at the DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari Hotel or San José Airport—by 3:00 PM.