This Tortuguero & Rainforest Adventure Tour combines two of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations for wildlife, culture, and adventure. Over seven unforgettable days, explore the lush Caribbean lowlands of Tortuguero—Costa Rica’s “Little Amazon”—and the volcanic landscapes of Arenal, known as the nation’s adventure capital.
Begin in Tortuguero National Park, accessible only by boat or plane. Cruise jungle canals where monkeys leap between trees, sloths nap in the canopy, and colorful toucans soar overhead. Depending on the season, witness one of nature’s most moving events: green sea turtles nesting under the stars. Visit the village of Tortuguero to discover its Afro-Caribbean culture and learn how conservation and local life intertwine.
Then fly across the country to Arenal Volcano National Park, where rainforest adventures await. Soar above the treetops on a thrilling zipline canopy tour, hike lush rainforest trails, and relax in eco-lodges surrounded by spectacular views of the volcano. With time built in for leisure, you can choose from an array of activities such as hot springs, white water rafting, waterfall rappelling, or nature tours.
This adventure blends exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation and photography, culture, and adrenaline, making it an ideal introduction to Costa Rica’s natural treasures.
Tortuguero National Park Tours Day 1. Upon arrival at San José International Airport, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel in Alajuela. Evening free to relax before your adventure begins.
Arrival and orientation.
San José.
Private transfer, hotel accommodations.
Meals, extras not specified.
Warm welcome, capital city stay.
Tortuguero National Park Tours Day 2. Depart San José and travel through Braulio Carrillo National Park, stopping for a hearty breakfast en route. Continue to La Pavona dock, where you’ll board a boat for a scenic transfer into the heart of Tortuguero National Park. Accessible only by water or air, Tortuguero is often called Costa Rica’s “Little Amazon”.
On arrival at your lodge, enjoy lunch before visiting the colorful village of Tortuguero, where Afro-Caribbean culture blends with local traditions and conservation efforts. The town’s single sandy street is lined with small shops, “sodas” (local restaurants), and murals celebrating turtles and the sea. It’s the perfect place to meet the friendly residents and learn about their unique Caribbean heritage.
In the evening, join your guide to learn about turtle nesting (seasonal, July–October)—a once-in-a-lifetime experience as mother turtles emerge from the sea to lay their eggs on the beach.
Introduction to Tortuguero’s wildlife and culture.
Tortuguero canals, Tortuguero village.
Insect repellent, hat, light clothing, binoculars.
Keep your camera ready on the boat transfer—wildlife sightings are frequent.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, land and boat transfers, guided village tour, lodge accommodations.
Extras not specified.
Caribbean canals, turtle nesting (seasonal), local culture.
Tortuguero National Park Tours Day 3. Begin the morning at leisure, taking time to stroll your lodge gardens, explore nearby rainforest trails, or simply relax while listening to the sounds of nature. Later, embark on a boat safari through Tortuguero’s legendary network of canals, a labyrinth of waterways surrounded by lush jungle.
Glide quietly along as your guide points out monkeys leaping through the treetops, caimans basking on the banks, and iguanas blending into the greenery. Overhead, look for toucans, herons, and brilliant kingfishers darting across the water. With its extraordinary concentration of wildlife, Tortuguero offers one of the most rewarding and authentic rainforest experiences in Costa Rica.
Tortuguero National Park.
Lightweight clothes, water shoes, sunscreen, binoculars.
Early mornings are the best time for spotting active wildlife.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, guided canal boat tour, lodge accommodations.
Extras not specified.
Rainforest canals, diverse wildlife, birdwatching.
Tortuguero National Park Tours Day 4. After breakfast, take a short boat transfer to the airstrip and board a scenic domestic flight to Arenal. In just 20 minutes, you’ll soar from the Caribbean lowlands to the shadow of Arenal Volcano.
On arrival in La Fortuna, transfer to your hotel with spectacular views of the volcano. The afternoon is at leisure to relax, explore your hotel grounds, or book optional activities such as hot springs or waterfall visits.
Scenic transition to Costa Rica’s adventure capital.
Tortuguero to Arenal, La Fortuna.
Comfortable travel clothes, light jacket.
Sit on the left side of the plane for the best views of the volcano.
Breakfast, boat transfer, domestic flight, private transfer, hotel accommodations.
Lunch, dinner, extras not specified.
Scenic flight, Arenal arrival, volcano views.
Tortuguero National Park Tours Day 5. Today’s adventure takes you to Mundo Aventura Canopy Park, where adrenaline and nature blend seamlessly. Begin with a tractor ride deep into the rainforest, then soar across 12 exhilarating ziplines that provide sweeping views of Arenal Volcano, Cerro Chato, and cascading waterfalls.
Feel the rush of flying above the canopy while surrounded by some of Costa Rica’s most iconic scenery. After the thrills, enjoy a cultural stop at the Maleku Indigenous Center to learn about traditions, crafts, and stories of this native community. The park also features a butterfly and frog garden, offering a colorful glimpse into Costa Rica’s biodiversity.
The rest of the day is free to relax at your hotel or explore the lively town of La Fortuna.
Rainforest canopy adventure and cultural experience.
Arenal Volcano, Mundo Aventura.
Walking shoes, comfortable clothes, sun protection.
Long pants are recommended for ziplining to avoid harness discomfort.
Breakfast, guided zipline canopy tour with equipment, cultural visit, hotel accommodations.
Lunch, dinner, extras not specified.
Zipline adventure, volcano views, Maleku culture.
Tortuguero National Park Tours Day 6. Enjoy a full day at leisure in the Arenal region, with endless opportunities to craft your own adventure. Choose from thrilling activities like whitewater rafting, ziplining, or guided hikes along forest trails leading to volcanic viewpoints. Nature lovers can explore the famous hanging bridges, offering canopy-level perspectives of the rainforest, while those seeking relaxation may prefer a soak in Arenal’s world-renowned hot springs, surrounded by lush tropical gardens (optional, extra cost).
Alternatively, take the day to simply unwind at your hotel and savor the stunning scenery of Arenal Volcano. However, you spend it, today is yours to embrace pura vida at your own pace.
Relaxation and optional adventure.
Arenal, La Fortuna.
Swimwear, comfortable shoes, sunblock.
Ask your guide about the “17 best things to do near Arenal Volcano”—there’s something for everyone.
Breakfast, hotel accommodations.
Lunch, dinner, optional tours.
Optional adventures, hot springs, relaxation.
After breakfast, transfer to San José International Airport for your departing flight—or extend your stay at one of Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific beaches (optional, extra cost).
Farewell journey.
Arenal to San José.
Passport, flight documents.
Book an afternoon departure to allow enough time for transfers.
Breakfast, private airport transfer.
Flights, extras not specified.
Scenic farewell, optional beach extension.
