Compare Costa Rica Photography Holiday by Creative Escapes vs Wellness Costa Rica by G Adventures
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
|
5 | Excellent
|
| Duration | 10 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 2,735 | $ 1,599 |
| Price Per Day | $ 273 | $ 187 |
| Highlights |
|
|
| Trip Style | Group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
| Physical Level |
|
|
| Travel Themes |
|
N/A |
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
|
|
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
|
N/A |
| Meals Included | N/A | 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners |
| Description |
Sandwiched by the Pacific Ocean on one side, and the Caribbean Sea on the other, with lush jungles, pristine beaches, never-ending wildlife, and lots of happy people in between – this is surely one of the most beautiful countries in Central America. Our 10-day Costa Rica photography holiday combines exhilarating adventure, captivating wildlife, gorgeous coastlines and neck-aching volcanoes; you’ll see such vibrant, deep shades of green you’ll think there’s been an addition to the color spectrum. Our ever-friendly Costa Ricans guides will waft you through the highlights of this stunning country; ziplining 2.5 km through a cloud forest, night shooting active volcanoes, grinding your own coffee tico style, then lazing on a powder white Caribbean beach. There is truly something for everyone in Costa Rica, the country that holds number one position on the Happy Planet Index. It won’t take long to realise why … |
Simply say “Costa Rica” and vivid images of paradise instantly flood the imagination. This eight-day tour makes those dreams a reality while letting you connect with the country’s charming people. Your spirits will be lifted with a visit to Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation and a G for Good project supporting 200 local farmers, before carrying on to the outdoor utopia that is La Fortuna. There, you’ll be treated to a world of wellness, with yoga sessions overlooking the Arenal Volcano, hiking, free time for meditation, and a rejuvenating trip to thermal hot springs. Continue on to remote Rincón de la Vieja for more yoga and a therapeutic mud bath before a final stop in Playa Carrillo — home to a beach devoid of buildings, hotels, and restaurants that will give your mind a sense of clarity you may have previously thought impossible. |
DAYS 1 & 2 : SAN JOSE
It’s only a short hop from the airport to our luxury boutique hotel in the heart of San Jose – Costa Rica’s spectacularly set capital city – ringed by jagged mountains, lush plants- tions and volcanoes on all sides. Our hotel, the Grano de Oro, is the finest hotel here, a 40-room former Victorian mansion, is a true oasis, a sanctuary in the heart of the city. Here we begin the basics of photography; understanding in very non-techy language how to confidently use your camera. Later, we’ll swing by some of the opulent museums of gold and jade, capture some colorfully arresting murals and hipster buskers in historic neighborhoods, and then kick back and drink the buzzing night- time atmosphere at Calle La Amarula. Welcome to the world’s happiest place!
DAYS 3 & 4: MONTEVERDE
Today, we head north, to Montverde Cloud Forest Reserve, extending over 35,000 acres and eight life zones atop the Continental Divide. Home to over 100 species of mammals, 1,200 amphibians plus jaguars, pumas and the resplendent quetzal, we’ll check into our junior suites, and get ready for our first adventure. At nightfall, a new world awakens in the clouds, and we’ll be there to capture the nocturnal biodiversity of the tropical forest by flashlight, led by experienced guides. Next day, we’ll delve further into the skills required to shoot great nature photography, then board the sky tram. Soon, high inside the forest, we’ll walk along sky trails at the level of the treetops, with spectacular views of the entire Biological reserve. Then, for those brave enough, we’ll descend 2.5 kilometers of zip lines up to 40mph, chance to silently observe the forest in all it’s might.
DAYS 5 & 6 : TURRIALBA
Costa Rica is home to a great number of volcanoes, six being active and another 61 dormant or extinct. Today, we’ll venture first to Irazu, the highest volcano in Costa Rica, from which on a clear day you can see both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. After an afternoon shooting over the emerald lake and surrounding moonscapes, we’ll take a short drive to Turrialba, to our stunning ranch with fabulous views of an active volcano – chance to learn the art of night photography in plush, safe surroundings. Next day, we’ll switch into black and white mode, going behind the scenes at a working coffee plantation, chance to get your hands dirty roasting beans, grinding, blending then a private tasting (and some liqueurs too).
DAYS 7 & 8: PUERTO VIEJO
East today, to the Caribbean, to where the flora and fauna meets gorgeous beaches, crystal clear blue waters and unspoiled, authentic seaside towns. Here we’ll chill, chance to get into the Caribbean rhythm, and capture portraits in this untouched paradise. Today, we’ll find our own adventures, meeting rainforest fruit farmers, local surfers, and hawkers cooking up a storm in their rickety shacks. This is Costa Rica in second gear, and a smorgasbord of photographic opportunities to capture one of the last original communities. In your free time, take a snooze in the grounds of our luxury hotel, learn how to surf, or learn the art of creole cookery in our lunch spot at Maxims. Later, we’ll review all of the shots of the day, beachside – with cocktails, of course.
DAYS 9 & 10: SAN JOSE
Our final stop back to the luxurious Grano de Oro, chance to put all your skills in portraiture, documentary, action, nature and landscape photography into practice, and work closely with your tutor to develop some shots for our final nights pop up exhibition in the grounds of the hotel. We’ll help pinpoint your emerging technique, give you tips on where to develop your skills, and some advice on the best kind of kit to suit your style. Finally, to round the trip off, we’ll host a pop-up outdoor exhibition overlooking the city of San Jose, then head out to celebrate all of our creative exploits. Next day, you’ll have time to relax and explore Costa Rica one last time before the plane flight home.
Day 1 San José
Arrive at any time and meet your included transfer to the hotel. This evening, meet the group and CEO for a welcome meeting. Take this opportunity to set your intention for the trip ahead.
Day 2 San José/La Fortuna
Drive to Sarapiquí to visit the G Adventures-supported Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation. Learn about the impact this project has had on the community and sample some of the products they sell. Continue on to La Fortuna, an outdoor paradise and the adventure capital of Costa Rica. Join the group for the first included yoga session on the hotel grounds overlooking Arenal Volcano.
Day 3 La Fortuna
Visit nearby Lake Arenal this morning for a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) class. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to take part in optional activities around La Fortuna – opt to go canyoning, hiking, or use the time for rest and meditation. In the evening, visit nearby hot springs for a relaxing soak in the thermal waters.
Day 4 La Fortuna/Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Travel to the Guanacaste province and head to Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Join an afternoon yoga session on the way to the eco-lodge before free time to relax or explore the great outdoors.
Home to two volcanoes, Rincón de la Vieja is the epitome of Costa Rica: lush jungle, extensive flora and fauna, bubbling mud pools next to volcanic thermal waters, and an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Day 5 Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Enjoy a day of exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Start by taking a short hike to one of the volcanic mud pools in the area. After a rejuvenating exfoliation with the volcanic mud, rinse off at nearby thermal pools. This afternoon is free to explore the park, or spend time enjoying the lodge.
Day 6 Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park/Playa Carrillo
Travel to Playa Carrillo on the Nicoya Peninsula, a laidback beach town on the Pacific Coast. Take part in a sunset yoga class near Playa Carrillo to really relax and tap into the laid-back vibes on the Nicoya Peninsula.
Known for being less busy than other beaches along the coast, Playa Carrillo is perfect for rest and relaxation as there are few distractions and minimal noise. The beach itself has no buildings, hotels or restaurants, and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.
Day 7 Playa Carrillo
Head to the beach to learn how to hang 10 at an included surf lesson. Take the rest of the day to do beach activities, meditation, or reflect on the journey of the past week. In the evening, take part in a sunset yoga class and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Day 8 Playa Carrillo/San José
Bid farewell to the coast and travel back to San José. Trip ends on arrival at San José Airport.
