Costa Rica Discovery

The driving experience today takes you to the Northern region and plains of Costa Rica north of Pital de San Carlos, specifically to the Boca Tapa de San Carlos. Maquenque Lodge will be your home for the following two nights. This area is known for its ecology, wildlife observation, and unique birding which is all surrounded by tropical rainforests and bordering the majestic San Carlos River.

The next day, you are at your leisure to explore the wonders of this area on your own. A boat tour on the San Carlos River, Walking Tours, horseback riding or a night tour are all part of the optional (extra cost) activities in the area.

After breakfast, you will be making your way to the Arenal – Fortuna area, home of the famous Arenal Volcano. The drive from Celeste River to the Arenal Volcano area is relatively short, and you can take it at your own speed to admire the scenery as you go along the different plantations. You will experience a two-night stay at a hotel in the Arenal volcano area.

This area represents the countryside of our towns. These lands are dedicated to agriculture and cattle ranches that become what many people have called the heart of the country. The main attraction of this area is by far the Arenal Volcano, which rises 1,633 meters above sea level showing off its almost perfect conic shape.

The following day is at leisure for you to discover on your own the different attractions, which are available in this area.  At an additional cost, you might go hiking in the Arenal National Park, Hanging Bridges, Canopy, and horseback riding or relaxing at the hot springs.

Today you will drive to Rio Celeste (Light Blue River), located near the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Undoubtedly, as the name says, Rio Celeste is a natural wonder of Costa Rica. This river obtains its spectacular colour from different volcanic minerals. Local legend says that when God finished painting heaven, he washed the brush in the Rio Celeste! Surely, this will be one of the highlights of your trip to Costa Rica.

The next morning we recommend getting up early so you walk on your own to Celeste River at mid-morning, and spend a couple of hours admiring the imposing waterfall, look-out point and blue lagoon, as well as explore the trails that take you to the “Teñideros,” where the river takes its blue colour from merging with a small creek. Visit the Bijagua village and get to know the locals; this is near the lodge in which you are staying. Alternatively, you can simply relax at the lodge surrounded by wonderful nature.

Today you will continue towards Rincon de la Vieja, Guanacaste’s largest and most active volcano. The first stage of the route is full of beautiful panoramic views of the largest lake in the country, Arenal Lake, which is used for power generation. Continuing with the trip, you can see in the distance the Tenorio and Miravalles volcanoes, when passing through towns like Cañas, Bagaces and Liberia, before reaching the area of Rincon de la Vieja volcano. This area is famous for its cowboys and cattle breeding. Therefore, you can see open fields of dry grass for cattle grazing, along with landscapes of tropical dry forest, with a variety of wildlife.

The next day is at your leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities or consider taking an excursion (extra cost). We recommend that you visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park (closed on Mondays), where you can walk beside bubbling mud pools and sulfur fumaroles while exploring the trails in the tropical dry forest. When walking, a local guide will describe all the secrets of the ecosystem as well as point out animals such as monkeys, toucans, agoutis, and coatis, among others. The park was created to protect the flora, it has the largest existing population of the national flower, La Guaria Morada (Guariante skinerii), extensive wildlife, and watersheds around the area.

Enjoy your morning at leisure, discovering this beautiful area and observing the different species of birds, mammals and the exuberant flora that surrounds the forest. Then, continue your drive to the Guanacaste on the North Pacific Coast. This route will provide you with panoramic views of Miravalles Volcano until you reach the Pan-American Highway, where you will begin to notice the transition from rainforest to the tropical dry forest that characterizes the entire Guanacaste Province. You will begin to see the beautiful, world-famous beaches of Costa Rica, set amidst the jungle landscape, as well as the magnificent sunsets, which will create indelible memories in your mind! Tonight, you will begin your 3-night stay in your selected hotel. Enjoy two full days at leisure to enjoy the hotel, the beach, and the surrounding area.

This is your last day in our country and after some unforgettable days of enjoying the Pacific Coast, you will drive to San Jose (approximate 3 ½ to 4½-hour drive depending on the location).  The car rental is not directly at the airport, but nearby. After returning the car, you will be taken to the airport for your international departing flight.