
Quintessential Costa Rica Holiday
Travel Dates: December 20, 2025 – December 30, 2025 *
The Quintessential Costa Rica Holiday package offers a thrilling adventure, featuring a mix of natural wonders and exciting activities. Highlights include visiting Arenal Volcano, relaxing in hot springs, a safari float on the Penas Blancas River, waterfall rappelling, a scenic lake crossing to Monteverde, ziplining through the cloud forest, and exploring Manuel Antonio National Park.
* Our holiday itineraries have specific travel dates. Please contact a Costa Rica Expert if your dates are different.
Trip Highlights
- Arenal Volcano
- Hot Springs
- Safari Float
- Pure Trek Waterfall Rappel
- Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Aerial Tram & Zipline
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Sunset Cruise
$3,862
per person for 4 travelers in 2 rooms
See more pricing details
Land Package
*Price valid until: January 31, 2026.
$3,407
per person for 5 travelers in 2 rooms
See more pricing details
Land Package
*Price valid until: January 31, 2026.
$3,307
per person for 6 travelers in 2 rooms
See more pricing details
Land Package
*Price valid until: January 31, 2026.
Trip Overview:
Daily Itinerary
Dec 20
Arrive at Lomas del Volcan, Arenal Volcano
Upon your morning or afternoon arrival into San Jose, you will meet your driver for a private transfer by ground, approximately 3 hours to the Arenal Volcano area. Although the volcano is currently in a resting phase, the region still offers endless opportunities for adventure.
Spend the night at Lomas del Volcan, a charming retreat nestled at the base of Arenal Volcano. Each private bungalow boasts stunning volcano views, while guests enjoy exclusive access to the scenic Los Congos trail, a spacious pool, and a relaxing jacuzzi area. After a thrilling day of exploration, unwind at the hotel’s spa, savor delicious cuisine at Hojarasca Restaurant, or enjoy a drink at La Arboleda bar. The hotel concierge is available to assist with restaurant reservations, taxi services, and booking unforgettable tours.
Dec 21
Private Arenal Hanging Bridges & Ecotermales Hot Springs
Explore the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a private nature reserve spanning over 1,500 acres of lush rainforest. A network of scenic trails connects 8 fixed bridges and 6 hanging bridges, offering a safe yet exhilarating way to experience the treetop canopy. From this elevated perspective, watch for over 50 species of tropical birds, fascinating insects, elusive reptiles, and playful monkeys swinging through the trees.
Then, head to Ecotermales Hot Springs, a secluded retreat nestled within the forest on a private farm. Relax in one of four naturally heated thermal pools and unwind in a “natural sauna” created by the soothing steam. End the evening with a delicious Costa Rican dinner in a peaceful, nature-filled setting. Overnight at Hotel Lomas del Volcan.
Dec 22
Safari Float on the Penas Blancas River
Drift along the serene Peñas Blancas River, surrounded by breathtaking rainforest and abundant wildlife. Your expert naturalist guide will navigate the boat, allowing you to relax and take in the sights of monkeys, sloths, reptiles, and other fascinating species. Keep your camera ready to capture iguanas basking in the sun or use binoculars to spot vibrant tropical birds in the treetops. After your river journey, visit “The Hidalgo Family Home” for an authentic taste of Costa Rican culture, complete with a traditional snack. Overnight at Hotel Lomas del Volcan.
Dec 23
Pure Trek Waterfall Canyoning
Embark on a thrilling trek through lush forest trails leading to some of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Uncover hidden gems deep within the canyon, utilizing specialized techniques and mountaineering equipment. The adventure kicks off with a safety briefing before you gear up and hike to the top of the first waterfall to begin your descent. Experience five rappels, including four cascading waterfalls and one dry rock face, with heights ranging from 20 to 50 meters, each one sure to ignite your adrenaline! Prepare for vertical waterfalls, dense jungle, untouched wildlife, solitude, and an unforgettable rush of excitement. Afterward, unwind with an overnight stay at Hotel Lomas del Volcán.
Dec 24
Transfer to Cloud Forest Lodge, Monteverde
Today, embark on the scenic Lake Crossing from Arenal to Monteverde. Begin with a ground transfer to the boat launch at the Arenal Dam, where you’ll board a comfortable pontoon boat for a 45-minute ride across the lake to the dock at Rio Chiquito. Upon arrival, you’ll continue by ground transfer for approximately 1 ½ – 2 hours to the Monteverde Cloud Forest region.
Check in to the Cloud Forest Lodge, a peaceful haven offering the perfect blend of serene nature and convenient access to Monteverde’s best attractions. Nestled within the Bellbird Biological Corridor, midway between the Monteverde Reserve and Santa Elena Reserve, the lodge provides a tranquil escape. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and unwind after your day’s adventures. The hotel concierge can assist with restaurant reservations, taxi services, and tour bookings.
Dec 25
TreeTram Cableway & Zipline
Set off on an exciting journey aboard the TreeTram cableway, ascending to one of Monteverde’s highest points at 5,700 feet above sea level. Begin your adventure through the mystical cloud forest before embarking on one of Costa Rica’s most thrilling canopy experiences! Soar through the treetops on 7 zip lines, ranging from 460 to 2,460 feet in length, covering a total of 1.9 miles. *Height and weight restrictions apply. Please inquire for details before booking. Overnight at Cloud Forest Lodge.
Dec 26
Transfer to Hotel Si Como No, Manuel Antonio
Today, meet your driver for a ground transfer of approximately 3.5 hours to the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area on the Central Pacific coast.
Arrive at Hotel Si Como No for the night. This charming boutique hotel in Manuel Antonio is a pioneer in eco-tourism and one of the first to embrace “barefoot luxury” in the heart of the tropical rainforest. Enjoy two on-site restaurants, two swimming areas, and a full-service spa. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Pacific, the hotel offers stunning views. Please note: The hillside location means there may be some stair climbing and mild “hiking” as part of your stay.
Dec 27
Brisa Elegante Sunset Catamaran
Experience breathtaking views of Manuel Antonio aboard the Brisa Elegante. This 100-foot gulet, the only one of its kind in Central America, features two expansive teak decks and several spacious lounge areas. As the ship glides along the coastline of Manuel Antonio National Park, the crew will greet you with a welcome cocktail and fresh fruit (additional alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the bar). Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and other marine life during the cruise. Weather permitting, the ship will anchor in a sheltered bay, offering opportunities for self-guided snorkeling and other water activities. Afterward, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner before heading back to the marina, just in time to witness a stunning Pacific sunset. Overnight at Hotel Si Como No.
Dec 28
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Hike
Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica’s most beloved national park, home to three stunning white-sand beaches nestled between lush rainforest and wildlife-rich trails.
Join a naturalist guide for a moderate walk through the park, immersing yourself in the beauty and history of this tropical rainforest. The park is teeming with wildlife, including over 109 species of mammals and 184 bird species. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit and towel to relax on the beaches after your tour. Overnight at Hotel Si Como No.
Dec 29
Manuel Antonio Free Day
Take the complimentary shuttle down to the beach, lounge by the pool, or lounge on your terrace and keep an eye out for toucans and monkeys in the trees! Add taxi services, restaurant reservations, and tours with your hotel concierge. Overnight Hotel Si Como No.
Dec 30
Depart San Jose International Airport
This morning, you will transfer by ground approximately 3 hours to the international airport in San Jose for your afternoon or evening departure.
Pricing is valid through the date listed for each itinerary (all pricing is subject to change until booked and confirmed). Holiday season supplements apply for Christmas, New Year’s, Presidents’ Day, and Easter travel dates. Green season specials and/or lower rates may apply for May to November travel dates.
All itineraries are land only, and international airfare is quoted separately. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary depending on your international flight schedule. For example, a late arrival will usually require a night near the airport in San Jose.
Please call one of our experts at 800-827-9046 to discuss your travel details.
Book this vacation
Our private vacation packages include accommodations, in-country transportation, and day tours to make your vacation hassle-free. Due to high demand, we are not offering individual day tours at this time. All vacation packages require a 7-day minimum.