Flavors of Costa Rica

8 days
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4.9/5 Excellent
51 reviews  
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Small Group Tour
This tour of Costa Rica teems with curious wildlife, endless beaches, tropical rainforests and rumbling volcanoes. Discover San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal and Manuel Antonio! There is something to refresh everyone’s sense of fun and adventure. Come along and discover Costa Rica at its finest. Refresh yourself on our 8-day fully inclusive and guided tour.
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Marvel at picture perfect Arenal Volcano and refreshen your sprit in the many thermal hot-springs
    • Slow down a little and relax on the white sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park
    • Cruise the Tortuguero Canals looking for wildlife from your jungle lodge and visit the local community for some fun
    • Zipline high above the lush cloud forests of Monteverde
    • Smell the sweet aroma of Costa Rican coffee at Don Juan
    • Walk your way through cosmopolitan San Jose’s artisan markets while sipping on a smoothie

What's this trip about?

    This tour of Costa Rica teems with curious wildlife, endless beaches, tropical rainforests and rumbling volcanoes. Discover San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal and Manuel Antonio! There is something to refresh everyone’s sense of fun and adventure. Come along and discover Costa Rica at its finest. Refresh yourself on our 8-day fully inclusive and guided tour.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - 24 max
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportRound trip airfare and all internal transport included
Start CitySan Jose, Costa Rica
End CitySan Jose, Costa Rica

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Birding
  • Cultural
  • Education / Learning
  • High Adventure
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • Costa Rica
  • South America

Attractions

  • Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Pacific Ocean
  • San José
  • Tortuguero National Park

Activities

  • Adventure & Adrenaline
  • Bird watching
  • Culture
  • Educational/ learning
  • Hot Springs
  • Nature
  • Photography
  • Wildlife viewing

Trip includes

    • Roundtrip International Airfare Tours of Distinction Tour Director 7-nights 4-star Accommodations 17 Meals Tortuguero National Park Manuel Antonio National Park Educational Tour Tortuguero Canal Tour, Tortuguero Village and Turtle Museum Crocodile & Mangrove Safari on the Tárcoles River Banana Plantation Lake Arenal Wine & Cheese Cruise All Taxes (incl. Costa Rica Departure Card) Gratuities for Tour Director, Driver & Local Guides

Popular Trips

Itinerary

 Day 1 - Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica Transfer to the airport and board your flight to San Jose, Costa Rica. Upon arrival in San Jose, we transfer to our hotel. Once settled, we get together for a welcome cocktail and dinner. (D)  Day 2 - San Jose - Tortuguero National Park Our Costa Rica adventure truly begins today. Enjoy some coffee and biscuits before departing to a remote area of Tortuguero. On the way, we will stop in Guapiles town for a hearty breakfast. After, we continue to a pier where our boat to Tortuguero awaits. Upon arrival, we check-in and enjoy lunch.  In the afternoon, we visit Tortuguero village and the Turtle Museum. Tortuguero, is one of the rainiest regions of the country, and it shelters the biggest biological variety of the nation; 11 habitats were identified so far in the park. The forest is the most important area of the coastline where coco palms are abundant. We return to our lodge for an evening of rainforest pleasure and dinner. (B,L,D)  Day 3 - Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica After breakfast, we enjoy a boat tour in the morning to the small canals for wildlife observation. Tortuguero National Park, with its 21,000 hectares of preserved tropical rain forest, provides one of the best opportunities to experience a wide range of tropical wildlife. We hope to spot a variety of monkeys, toucans, green macaws, and caimans, among others, while gliding through the vine laden canals with our naturalist guide. After, we return to lodge for lunch. Later, we enjoy a small hike on the lodge’s trails. (B,L,D)  Day 4 - Tortuguero National Park - Arenal This morning, we transfer by boat back to La Pavona pier and continue by bus to Guapiles where we will enjoy a delicious lunch. After lunch, we are lead over to la Fortuna de San Carlos where the impressive Arenal Volcano resides. La Fortuna de San Carlos is home to one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the world. Cloud forests, a beautiful volcanic lake and an incredibly diverse population of wildlife is just part of what we will find in this amazing area of Costa Rica. Near the volcano, you will find the largest lake in Costa Rica, Lake Arenal. After, we check in at our hotel and enjoy a welcome drink. There will be time to relax and refresh before our wine and cheese cruise on Lake Arenal. We return to the hotel for dinner in these beautiful surroundings. (B,L,D)  Day 5 - Arenal Adventure awaits today! After breakfast, we visit the Sky Adventure facilities. Here, we will have the opportunity to observe the forest from a different perspective and have some fun! Sky Walk (Hanging bridges), Sky Trek (Zipline) & Sky Tram are all included; the choice is yours. The Sky Walk is an impressive series of bridges and paths. Here, we can experience spectacular views. Several bridges take us alongside the tree canopy, some of which have colonized the bridges. We may even spot birds and howler monkeys at their own level. The Sky Tram is a 20-minute aerial tram tour that reaches a wide observation deck at the highest point of the Arenal Reserve where we can observe the rain forest, Arenal volcano, and lake. Sky Trek is all about getting active above the treetops. It consists of a system of zip lines that allow us to observe the rainforest and its landscape from a different perspective. After we travel to Don Juan Chocolate for a chocolate and coffee tour. Here, we will get the chance to learn the importance and history of coffee to ‘Tico’ culture and Costa Rica’s development. Then, we continue with our chocolate tour – the perfect compliment to coffee! We  experience the aromas and history, and participate in the chocolate making process. Return to the hotel later this afternoon. Take some time to relax and use our hotel’s facilities and hot Springs. (B,D)   Day 6 - Arenal – Manuel Antonio This morning, we have breakfast at our hotel then head out for Manuel Antonio. On the way south, we will stop at the Tárcoles River to appreciate the Crocodiles as well as the Guacalillo mangrove. The river of Tárcoles offers us the opportunity to observe American Crocodiles with sizes over the four meters long, iguanas and basilisks in their natural environment. Specialized bilingual guides will accompany us offering wide educational information on the biology of the crocodiles and diverse aspects of the ecology of this natural refuge. During the tour we enter the Guacalillo Channel, an estuary where there are four different species of mangrove (black, red, white and buttonhole) that constitute an important refuge for the red macaw. After, we continue to Manuel Antonio. Upon arrival, we check-in to our hotel and have dinner. Manuel Antonio is a small oceanside village tucked into nature. Famous for its national park, this tiny yet bustling town is located off Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast and without a doubt, is one of the country’s most celebrated spots. (B,D)  Day 7 - Manuel Antonio Today, we journey to nearby Manuel Antonio National Park. Manuel Antonio National Park is 7,000 acres; however, it also has an additional 136,000 acres of a Marine Park Reserve. It is one of the smallest and most popular national parks in Costa Rica. The protected rainforests of Manuel Antonio National Park provide a home for 350 species of birds and 109 species of mammals. Among the birds native to the region, we may see scarlet macaws, toucans, motmots, parakeets, hawks and tanagers. Of course, the most popular animals are the various monkey species that call Manuel Antonio National Park home. White-faced capuchin, spider and mantled howler monkeys may greet us. Once inside the park, we may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the endangered red-backed squirrel monkey. Other commonly seen animals include both two- and three-toed sloths, coatimundis, peccaries, iguanas and armadillos, as well as a host of reptile and amphibian park dwellers. We return to our hotel for some time at leisure. Enjoy the pristine beaches, shop the local markets or relax by the pool. (B,D)  Day 8 - Depart Manuel Antonio After breakfast this morning, we transfer to the airport and board the flight home. The tour may be over, but the memories of all the beautiful places we have visited on this trip will stay with you. (B)

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Dates & Availability

Price From $3,199
Price per day$400
Last Updated: 4/19/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Tours of Distinction.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tours of Distinction Reviews & Ratings

4.9/5  Excellent
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Other Tours of Distinction Reviews

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J Lamb

Aug 2023

Written on

Great Itinerary and Value

We loved this trip. Our guide was excellent. We really enjoyed all th...

S

Suzie

Sep 2022

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The trip itself was amazing!

The trip itself was amazing! The Venus were interesting and beautiful. The food was delicious (especially the buffet at The Grand on Mackinac Island). We enjoyed get...

M

MISLED

Feb 2024

Tours of Distinction Company Reviewsby Tours of Distinction

UNDERWHELMING TO SAY THE LEAST

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Tour Operator

Tours of Distinction

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Since 1971, Tours of Distinction has offered a diverse collection of escorted and customized individual tours, carefully crafted by our professional travel team to over 500,000 travelers. We are one of the best tour companies that specialize in everything from carefree Day Trips, Land & Multi-day Tours and Cruises. From the USA, Canada and all over the world, whether you are a first-time traveler or a seasoned globetrotter, if you love life-enriching moments and experiencing the heart, soul, and adventure of a destination, then traveling with Tours of Distinction is the right vacation for you.

We’ve been providing life-enriching experiences putting you at the heart of the destination and creating lasting memories for 50 years. Our expert service, guidance and years of experience help make all the difference.

Most tours are fully inclusive of airfare, superior accommodations, most meals, all gratuities, and the highlights of each destination. Mixed with a balance of free-time and the leadership of a professional Tours of Distinction Tour Director, you will see what you have dreamed to see in safety and security.

For Tours of Distinction, our goal is to make sure your journey is as distinct as you, and the best it can be.

Our name says it all.

Distinct Commitments:

Accountability 

Here at Tours of Distinction we believe in delivering on the commitments we make – to our colleagues, to our clients, to our community, and to our fellow travelers. Everything we do is done with purpose, passion, and a promise to always do the right thing.

Authenticity

We know because we’ve been there. Here at Tours of Distinction we are passionate about travel! With more than 45 years as a respected tour operator and more than 100 years of combined travel & tourism expertise, we know what’s important to consider when booking a tour. What’s more, many of our staff have traveled to the destinations we promote and are well-equipped to handle different situations as they may arise.

Easy to work with

We pride ourselves on being responsive and easy to work with from the very first point of contact to post-trip.

Support

Whether you are a solo traveler or part of a pre-formed group, our dedicated staff of professional Tour Planners and Tour Directors work hard to finesse all the details of custom planning, booking, and escorting your trip to ensure that you have the smoothest, most memorable experience possible.

Community Focused

Tours of Distinction is a close-knit bunch. Creating enjoyable tour experiences, along with a history of shared memories with our colleagues, clients, and fellow travelers is what unifies us and encourages loyalty. We value our clients and reward loyalty through several programs.

Innovative

Keeping up with the latest trends in travel and, more important, how you prefer to travel is paramount to how we operate. We are always leveraging the feedback we receive and industry data to deliver unique tour packages that inspire the imagination, offer relaxation, and promote optimal well-being.

Back & Relax Even Before Your Tour Begins:

Daily Experience                                                              

It's all in the details. Our Tour Directors are constantly working behind the scenes to ensure every moment matters. Hotel check-ins, porterage, meals and all our other tour inclusions are coordinated so everything runs right on time. Not only will your experience be seamless, but we promise you top-of-the-line accommodations, restaurants, and even more exclusive ways to witness first-hand the must-see sights of each and every area!

Professional & Passionate

Each of our Tours of Distinction Tour Directors has over 20 years of experience. They know how to make each tour safe, fun and inclusive. Sit back and relax - you are in good hands!

Knowledge

Been there and done that. Our Tour Directors know the road, and what works to really make each trip extra special and memorable. Their local knowledge of special sights, sounds and smells make every moment fun and the journey smooth.           

Local Guides

At times, our Tour Directors enlist the assistance of local guides in order to give our clients a more in-depth and authentic experience. Local guides are thoughtfully chosen for their insider's knowledge of local customs and traditions that gives visitors a glimpse of how life is really lived.

Time and Money

Your time and money are valuable! Guided travel offers you the unique value of saving precious time. Don't spend even a minute stressing over every aspect of your getaway, such as missing flights, the best attractions and incredible cuisine. Instead, we plan out every detail so you never have to think twice about your vacation running smoothly.

Get the most out of your travel experience traveling at the right time of year and getting the best experiences with the best people. We know the perfect time of the year to visit each of our unique locations around the world, for the very best value. Plus, our tour vacation packages are fully inclusive.

Small Groups

There are so many rewards to small group travel, which is the reason why Tours of Distinction specializes in this type of travel experience. As a general rule of thumb, small group travel means that group sizes are limited and normally do not include more than twenty people.

New Friends

One of the basic advantages to small group travel is that you will visit a destination with like-minded travelers. Traveling with people and sharing interests as well as experiences often bond travelers together. Small group travel is not only sharing life-changing experiences with others, but you also come away with fabulous memories and new friends!

Just Enjoy

Another perk of small group travel is that you get a more in-depth look at a destination without the logistical hassles of traveling completely on your own. In short, with a small group, you are able to enjoy more time experiencing a destination rather than organizing and haggling when in it.

Authentic Experiences

Much of the time, small group itineraries offer more authentic off the beaten path experiences that you would not find on your own. Special local guides take you into the heart of a destination allowing you to see more with the added benefit of sharing the delights of the adventure with like-minded others.

More Personalized

An experienced guide often makes a destination come alive by providing first hand, on the spot travel experience, knowledge and stories. Small group travel is more personalized and will make you feel more like a traveler and less like a tourist.

Safe

If safety is on your mind, when traveling with a small group you are most likely less likely to be blend-in with the local atmosphere. Plus, it is much easier for our Tour Directors to get know everyone.

We have partnered with the World Travel and Tourism Council with our Ready, Set Travel campaign highlighting our new safety policies and hygiene guidelines.

Economical

Economically small group travel is an excellent value for your money. In addition to the non-tangible benefits of a small group, on a Tours of Distinction tour the cost is calculated up front so once you have paid for your trip, all you need to bring along is some spending money for personal items and souvenirs.

Eco-Friendly

If you are concerned about the environmental footprint, small group travel is structured to leave a lighter footprint on a destination. For example, traveling in a group leaves a much lighter carbon footprint than if each person in the group hired an individual car. A small group also offer the added benefit of utilizing more local restaurants, guides, and hotels giving a little more back to the community we are visiting.

Tours of Distinction offers small group tours nationally and internationally.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Travel Insurance, Alcoholic Beverages, Items of a Personal Nature

Accommodation

,Premier Accommodation
Travel Insurance
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Meals Included

7 Breakfasts | 3 Lunches | 7 Dinners

Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Additional Information
Trip ID
tourso-CoRiDis

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