Value Holiday in Arenal & Manuel Antonio: Dec 26 – January 3

Travel Dates: December 26, 2025 January 3, 2026 *

Our Costa Rica Value Holiday vacation package offers a luxurious Costa Rica getaway tothe Arenal Volcano, followed by rainforest and beach in Manuel Antonio. Enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation with activities like whitewater rafting, hanging bridges, sunset sailing aboard the Brisa Elegante, and hiking in the rainforest.

* Our holiday itineraries have specific travel dates. Please contact a Costa Rica Expert if your dates are different.


$2,540

per person (based on 4 passengers)

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Land Package

*Price valid until: January 4, 2026.

$2,340

per person (based on 5 passengers)

See more pricing details

Land Package

*Price valid until: January 4, 2026.

$2,205

per person (based on 6 passengers)

See more pricing details

Land Package

*Price valid until: January 4, 2026.

9 days

8 nights

Daily Itinerary:

Dec 26

Arrive in San Jose, Transfer to Lost Iguana Resort (Arenal Volcano)

Upon your morning or afternoon arrival in San Jose, meet your driver for a transfer by ground approximately 3 hours to the Arenal Volcano area.

Arrive at the Lost Iguana Resort. This boutique resort is located on a 100-acre rainforest reserve and offers dramatic volcano views. Guests have access to miles of foot trails for independent exploration, as well as a pool surrounded by forest vegetation. Please note: Lost Iguana Resort is in a secluded natural setting, approximately 15 minutes away from the main roads of Arenal. Arrange restaurant reservations, taxi services, and local tours with the help of the hotel concierge.

Dec 27

Arenal Hanging Bridges & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

Explore the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a 2-mile trail featuring 16 stunning bridges, including 6 suspended ones up to 180 feet high. With a guide, discover the rainforest’s wildlife at every level, from the forest floor to the treetops, all set against the Arenal Volcano. Then, visit La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can view the 70-foot cascade, then descend 530 steps to swim in the refreshing waters. Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch before heading back to your hotel. Overnight Lost Iguana Resort.

Dec 28

Rio Balsa Whitewater Rafting (Class II – III)

The Balsa River offers exciting Class II and III rapids, suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The first half of the river features continuous Class III rapids with small pools, while the second half offers calmer waters, perfect for wildlife spotting. The river flows through the rainforest’s lowlands, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to see tropical birds and other wildlife. Overnight Lost Iguana Resort.

Dec 29

Free day:

Book guided excursions, have a relaxing pool day, or explore independently. Add restaurant reservations, taxi services, tours, and other experiences with the hotel concierge. Overnight Lost Iguana Resort. *Note: Tours may sell out over the peak December/January holiday travel period. It is recommended to book any desired activities in advance.

Dec 30

Transfer to Hotel Costa Verde (Manuel Antonio)


This morning, meet your driver for transfer by ground approximately 5 hours to the Quepos / Manuel Antonio area on the Central Pacific Coast.
Arrive at Hotel Costa Verde for overnight. This rustic but comfortable hideaway is a veteran of the Manuel Antonio hotel scene. Set in the rainforest overlooking the Pacific Ocean, guests enjoy incredible sunset views at every turn. Enjoy multiple swimming pools and a selection of on-site restaurant for a convenient stay. The hotel is just a few minutes from the Manuel Antonio National Park and all the area’s best attractions.

Dec 31

PRIVATE Manuel Antonio National Park Tour

Costa Rica’s favorite national park is Manuel Antonio, featuring three of the country’s most beautiful white sand beaches bordered by dense rainforest and trails abundant in wildlife. Follow a naturalist guide for a moderate walk through the park to explore this diverse natural habitat, with over 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. Bring a bathing suit and towel to enjoy the beaches after the tour. Overnight Hotel Costa Verde.

Jan 2

Sunset Cruise on the Brisa Elegante

Enjoy extraordinary views of Manuel Antonio aboard Brisa Elegante. Featuring two expansive teak decks and multiple spacious lounge areas, this 100’ gulet is the only one of its kind in Central America.  As the ship follows the coastline along Manuel Antonio National Park, the crew will serve a welcome cocktail and fresh fruit (additional alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the bar).  You might spot dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and more during the cruise. Depending on wind and weather conditions, the ship will anchor in a sheltered bay for optional self-guided snorkeling and other water activities. Then, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner before returning to the marina. The cruise ends just in time  for a beautiful Pacific sunset. Overnight Hotel Costa Verde.

Jan 3

Morning Transfer to San Jose for Departure

Early this morning, 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; international airfare is not included. 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 custom 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.

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