OVERVIEW
Our 9-night Rainforest Adventure is our signature Costa Rica vacation. Your adventure begins in the capital city of San Jose at the historic newly renovated Gran Hotel, an easy walk to all the major downtown museums and markets. The next day jump right into the action with an overnight whitewater rafting trip down the Pacuare River. In Drake Bay, a full day guided hike of “the most ecologically diverse” place on earth will open your eyes to the beauty of the rainforest. Transfer to Manuel Antonio for a few free days to explore Hotel Si Como No and relax by the pool.
DAILY ITINERARY
Day 1
Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica
Upon arrival in San Jose, Costa Rica transfer to the Gran Hotel in the heart of downtown for overnight. Enjoy all the luxuries of this historic newly renovated ideally situated on the main Avenida Central with views overlooking the National Theatre. Explore top museums, restaurants, and markets - all within an easy walking distance of your hotel!
Day 2
Pacuare River Overnight: Class III-IV Rapids
Depart San José early in the morning, stopping for breakfast at the Rios Lodge Operations Center before arriving at the river. The first day's Class III rapids will welcome you to the Pacuare gorge's charm. While your guides prepare your lunch on the riverbank, you'll be led through the jungle to an enchanting waterfall and pool to swim. Before you know it, you'll arrive at the Rios Lodge.
Day 3
Pacuare Rafting; Transfer to San Jose
After breakfast and loading the rafts, paddle down the Pacuare gorge past waterfalls, pools, and rapids. An adrenaline-packed afternoon running rapids will have you cheering excitedly. Lunch will be served at the Tropical Rivers Operations Center. Showers, cold and hot drinks, and snacks are also available. On the return drive to San José, you'll enjoy remarkable views of Braulio Carrillo National Park and Irazú Volcano. Late this afternoon you will return to San Jose and transfer to the Gran Hotel for overnight.
Day 4
Transfer to Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula
Today transfer to the San Jose Airport for the scenic flight to Drake Bay, on the Osa Peninsula. Arrive at the Aguila de Osa Inn for overnight. Situated on a bluff overlooking the magnificent Drake Bay and the Pacific Coast, the rooms are spacious with mesh windows to ensure a tropical breeze to pass through.
Day 5
Corcovado National Park Hike
This morning take a boat ride to the entrance of Corcovado National Park, which protects over 100,000 acres and many of the country’s endangered species. National Geographic ranks this park as "the most biologically intense place on earth." Have a refreshing swim in a waterfall before returning to Aguila de Osa Inn for overnight.
Day 6
Snorkeling at Cano Island Biological Reserve
The island is one of the best places in the country for scuba diving and snorkeling - especially among the big fish like bull and white tip sharks! Spotted dolphins occasionally follow boats. During certain times of the year, humpback whales or manta rays in vast numbers pass through the area. Overnight Aguila de Osa Inn. (Or certified divers can substitute a full day Scuba diving tour at additional cost)
Day 7
Transfer to Manuel Antonio / Quepos
This morning you will transfer by boat to Sierpe where you will be met and transferred approximately 2 hours to Manuel Antonio / Quepos on the Central Pacific coast. Upon arrival, transfer to Hotel Si Como No for overnight. This hotel is an exemplary combination of environmentalism, stunning design and barefoot luxury.
Day 8
Manuel Antonio Free Day
Take a short shuttle ride down to the beach. Discover the lush coast and beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. Overnight Hotel Si Como No.
Day 9
Manuel Antonio Free Day
To include tours, visit our Manuel Antonio Tours page. Overnight Hotel Si Como No.
Day 10
Depart San Jose, Costa Rica
This morning you will be met and driven approximately 3 hours to San Jose international airport for your afternoon international flight home.
