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Explore some of Costa Rica’s ‘classic’ regions as you walk through pristine cloud forest and along sandy beaches. Immerse yourself in the country’s stunning natural beauty as you look out for its distinctive wildlife, stroll along numerous trails and get to know the locals.

  • Explore the country’s famous cloud forests
  • Climb Irazú Volcano for spectacular views
  • Walk along white-sand beaches
  • Follow varied trails through stunning national parks
  • Learn how to make traditional Costa Rican sweets
  • Snorkel around Caño Island

Arriving in the capital, San José, you will then travel south towards the country’s first capital, Cartago, en route to Irazú Volcano. You will start to see signs of the area’s incredible biodiversity as you ascend the volcano before heading down to the famous cloud forest of San Gerardo de Dota. You will trek through the forest, do a spot of birdwatching and have your first glimpse of rural country life. The trip then heads to Dominical, Corcovado National Park before ending on the stunning Osa Peninsula.

Typical Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Fly from the UK to San José

    Today you will fly from the UK to Costa Rica. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your accommodation in San José. 

  2. Day 2: Journey to Turrialba, via Cartago & Irazú Volcano

    Today you will be transferred from San José to the Turrialba area. Pass through Cartago en route, and climb the incredible Irazú Volcano.

  3. Day 3: Walk through cloud forest in the Savegre Private Reserve

    You will be transferred to the San Gerardo Dota area where you will walk in one of Costa Rica’s famous cloud forests. Then you will have a chance to marvel at the country’s incredible biodiversity as you walk on the network of trails, which is approximately 30km long.

  4. Day 4: Trek through the San Gerardo de Dota Valley

    Walking through the pristine San Gerardo de Dota Valley, you will explore endless cloud forest and looking out for its superb birdlife along the way.

    Walking distance: 14 km

  5. Day 5: Transfer to Dominical & visit Marino Ballena National Park

    This morning you will be transferred further south to the stunning central Pacific area of Dominical. In the afternoon, take a tour of Marino Ballena National Park – walk along the beach and, depending on the season, look for humpback whales offshore.

    Walking distance: 2 km

  6. Day 6: Visit the majestic Nauyaca waterfalls

    Accompanied by the sounds of the river, you will walk through the forest and between pastures towards the Nauyaca waterfalls.

    Walking distance: 6 km

  7. Day 7: Journey by road & boat to Casa Drake

    Today you will make your way to Casa Drake which is located in the famous Drake Bay. Your journey will be by road and boat.

  8. Day 8: Hiking in Corcovado National Park

    Making your way to Sirena Ranger station, you have the chance to follow three trails in the Corcovado National Park. During today’s walk you will also have the chance to spot some unique wildlife.

    Walking distance: 6 km

  9. Day 9: Snorkelling from Caño Island

    Taking a boat from Drake Bay, you will make your way to Caño Island. Here, you have some time to relax on the beach and do some snorkelling. You can also walk on the island’s trails if you wish to explore the island on foot.

  10. Day 10: Gold, Trapiche & chocolate tours en route to Puerto Jimenez

    On the way to Puerto Jimenez, you will get the chance to discover some of the local community’s traditions. You will learn how to make Trapiche from sugar cane, visit a cacao plantation and discover techniques for collecting gold.

  11. Day 11: Hiking in Corcovado National Park

    You will be transferred back to the Corcovado National Park where you will take a trek around the La Leona Ranger station. Today’s walk will take you through rainforest and along the beach.

    Walking distance: 10 km

  12. Day 12: Matapalo & Piro jungle tour

    Today’s walk visits the breathtaking Cape Matapalo, offering spectacular scenery. You will get the chance to spot wildlife during this hike as well as take some time for a refreshing dip in a waterfall.

    Walking distance: 12 km

  13. Day 13: Fly to San José

    You will be transferred to Puerto Jimenez Airstrip where you will fly back to San José for your final night in Costa Rica.

  14. Day 14: Depart Costa Rica

    You will be transferred to San José Airport in time for your return flight to the UK.

  15. Day 15: Arrive UK

Price and Other Information

  • Duration and price excluding international flights: 14 days from £3,899 per person
  • Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 15 days from £4,479 per person
  • Single room supplement: None
  • Walking grade: Moderate
  • Guiding: Guided Group
  • Max alt: 3,432m
  • Group size: 4-12
  • When to go: View Dates & Prices
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  • Route map:
    Route map for Nature Trails in Southern Costa Rica
  • What’s included
    • Hotel x 10 nights & safari tent x 3 nights
    • 13 breakfasts, 11 lunches & 11 dinners
    • Experienced English-speaking guide
    • Airport transfers

Next Steps

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Guided Group

We will be happy to help arrange a departure for you according to seasonal conditions and your own specific needs.

For availability, prices and details of suitable times to travel, please contact us.

If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.