ECHOES OF THE FOREST
12 DAYS IN COSTA RICA
TRIP SUMMARY
4x4 Adventure: Wild Costa Rica at Your Own Pace
In this itinerary you will experience the true essence of adventure, exploring Costa Rica at your own pace behind the wheel of a 4x4. You will begin by taking on the thrilling Class III rapids of the Pacuare River, surrounded by pristine jungle canyons and breathtaking waterfalls. After recharging, you will take your vehicle into the lush plains of Sarapiquí, where you will ride in harmony with nature.
The route then leads you to the domain of the imposing Arenal Volcano, where you will soak in thermal waters and walk across the canopy of the cloud forest on massive hanging bridges. The adrenaline reaches its peak in the savannah of Rincón de la Vieja, where you will descend rocky canyons by rappel and float down the river in fun tubing adventures. To conclude your expedition, you will relax under the sun of the North Pacific on the peaceful sands of Playa Potrero. A journey designed for free spirits seeking adrenaline, deep nature, and total freedom.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
HELLO, SAN JOSÉ!
You will arrive and enjoy a private transfer of approximately 30 minutes to your accommodation in San José, where you can rest and prepare for your immersion into Costa Rican nature. Take the afternoon to explore its vibrant historic streets or enjoy the rich local cuisine.
Accommodation: Hotel in San José
PACUARE RAPIDS
You will depart early toward the Caribbean for an exciting rafting adventure. You will navigate the spectacular Class III rapids of the Pacuare River, surrounded by emerald rainforest, waterfalls, and crystal-clear natural pools where you can swim and cool off.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pacuare River. Includes: Full board
ON THE ROAD AN JUNGLE FREEDOM
After more adrenaline and a Caribbean-style lunch, you will receive your 4x4 rental vehicle. Enjoy the freedom of driving at your own pace toward the lush plains and tropical forests of Sarapiquí.
Accommodation: Hotel in Sarapiquí. Includes: Breakfast and lunch
HORSEBACK RIDING IN SARAPIQUI
Connect deeply with nature on horseback along the scenic trails of Hacienda Pozo Azul. Enjoy a relaxing ride through green pastures, refreshing rivers, and dense tropical jungle.
Accommodation: Hotel in Sarapiquí. Includes: Breakfast
TOWARD THE VOLCANO
Drive your 4x4 toward the La Fortuna region, home of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Spend the rest of the day relaxing in your hotel’s volcanic hot springs.
Accommodation: Hotel in La Fortuna / Arenal. Includes: Breakfast
BRIDGES AND VOLCANOES
Walk above the rainforest canopy on the Mistico Hanging Bridges, observing exotic birds and tropical flora. Later, continue driving toward the dry forest ecosystem of Rincón de la Vieja.
Accommodation: Hotel in Rincón de la Vieja / Guanacaste. Includes: Breakfast and lunch
CANYONS AND ADRENALINE
Experience a full day of adventure with zip-lining through canyons, rappelling down rock walls, and the Tarzan swing. End the day tubing down the Río Negro rapids.
Accommodation: Hotel in Rincón de la Vieja / Guanacaste. Includes: Breakfast and lunch
DRIVING TO THE PACIFIC
Leave the volcanic landscapes behind and drive your 4x4 to the Pacific coast. Arrive at Playa Potrero and enjoy the calm turquoise waters and sea breeze.
Accommodation: Hotel in Playa Potrero / Pacific Coast. Includes: Breakfast
COASTAL PURA VIDA
Two full free days in Playa Potrero to relax completely. Sunbathe on quiet beaches, swim in the ocean, or enjoy spectacular golden sunsets over the Pacific.
Accommodation: Hotel in Playa Potrero / Pacific Coast. Includes: Breakfast
RETURN TO CAPITAL
Drive back to San José, return your rental car, and enjoy a final evening in the heart of the country.
Accommodation: Hotel in San José. Includes: Breakfast
HOMEWARD BOUND
After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to the international airport. You will leave with unforgettable memories of your wild Costa Rican adventure.
Includes: Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Bosque del Mar Papagayo
Bosque del Mar Papagayo
El Mangroove Papagayo
Hotel Borinquen Rincón de la Vieja
INCLUDED
- International flights
- Private arrival and departure transfer with assistance
- All meals included at Santuario Ave Sol
- 4x4 rental car from day 3 to 11 (Hyundai Tucson Superior or similar)
- 2 nights in San José
- 1 night in Pacuare River
- 2 nights in Sarapiquí
- 1 night in La Fortuna / Arenal
- 2 nights in Rincón de la Vieja / Guanacaste
- 3 nights in Playa Potrero / Pacific Coast
- Excursion: “Pacuare River Rafting”
- Excursion: “Horseback riding in Pozo Azul”
- Excursion: “Mistico Hanging Bridges”
- Excursion: “Ziplining in Rincón de la Vieja”
- Excursion: “Tubing in Rincón de la Vieja”
NOT INCLUDED
- Departure tax ($29 per person)
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Travel and cancellation insurance
- $1,000 deposit held during the trip
- Mandatory daily basic coverage
- Optional daily car insurance
- Fuel Costs
- Anything not listed in the “included” section
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
International flights
For your trip to Costa Rica, the main arrival and departure airport will be Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José. If at the end of your route you decide to stay on the coast and not return to the capital, you also have the option of flying back from Guanacaste Airport (LIR) in Liberia, which is much closer to the Tamarindo area.
Visa
If you are traveling from Spain, you do not need to obtain a visa for tourism purposes. You only need a valid passport, with at least six months of validity from your date of entry, and proof of an onward or return ticket.
Vaccinations
Currently, there are no mandatory vaccines to enter Costa Rica, unless you have been in a yellow fever-endemic country within the 6 months prior to entry (Costa Rica itself is not one). However, it is recommended to visit a tropical medicine center for personalized medical advice.
Terms and conditions
Here we will include a link to our cancellation policy.