Christmas in Paradise: Papagayo & Arenal

Travel Dates: December 23, 2026 – December 29, 2026 *

Celebrate Christmas in Costa Rica with an unforgettable journey that combines luxury, adventure, and natural beauty. Begin with three nights at the exclusive El Mangroove in Papagayo, where you’ll enjoy a private ocean adventure complete with fishing, snorkeling, water sports, and a beachfront BBQ. Then continue to Arenal for four nights at Tabacón Thermal Resort, home to Costa Rica’s most renowned natural hot springs, and experience some of the region’s top attractions, including hanging bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, whitewater rafting, and ziplining through the rainforest canopy.

This holiday escape offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement, pairing the pristine beaches of the Pacific Coast with the volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests of Arenal for a memorable Christmas vacation in paradise.

* Our holiday itineraries have specific travel dates (see above). Other options may be available depending on your preferred travel dates.


$25,300

TOTAL (4 passengers)

See more pricing details

Land Package

*Price valid until: January 4, 2026.

$26,600

TOTAL (5 passengers)

See more pricing details

Land Package

*Price valid until: January 4, 2026.

7 days

6 nights

Daily Itinerary:

Dec 23

Arrive at El Mangrove (Playa Panama)

Upon arrival in Liberia, meet your driver for transfer by ground, approximately 45 – 1 hour minutes to Playa Panama.

Arrive at El Mangroove, a chic beachfront resort nestled along the tranquil waters of Culebra Bay. Surrounded by tropical forest, the resort blends contemporary design with natural elements inspired by the beauty of the Guanacaste region. Guests can enjoy a variety of water-based adventures, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and private boat excursions to secluded nearby beaches. Additional activities such as yoga, sport fishing, cycling, and wellness experiences provide something for every traveler. The resort also features three distinctive dining venues, offering a creative mix of local flavors and international cuisine.

Dec 24

PRIVATE Fun on the Ocean’ Tour with BBQ (6 hours):

Today is all about enjoying the ocean at your own pace. Your private excursion is fully customizable, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests. Start with sport fishing in the Gulf, where common catches include mahi mahi, tuna, mackerel, marlin, and roosterfish. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife as well, as dolphins and seasonal whales are often spotted in these waters.

Afterward, cruise to a secluded beach with calm, inviting waters. Enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ lunch before taking advantage of the included water activities, such as snorkeling, stand up paddleboarding, tubing, and water skiing. Two wave runners are also available for use, with up to 45 minutes of ride time included. Overnight at El Mangroove.

Dec 25

Free Day

Spend the day at leisure, enjoying the resort’s exceptional amenities. Unwind in a stylish poolside cabana, try stand-up paddleboarding, explore the coastline by kayak, or venture off property for an optional adventure. The resort concierge can assist with arranging spa treatments, dining reservations, and additional excursions to enhance your stay. Overnight at El Mangroove.

Dec 26

Transfer to The Springs Resort & Spa (Arenal Volcano)

Today, meet your driver for private transfer by ground, approximately 3 hours to the Arenal Volcano area. Although the volcano is currently in a resting phase, the region offers exciting opportunities.

Guests of the The Springs enjoy incredible volcano views, natural hot & cold springs, 4 unique dining experiences, an impressive spa, and modern in-room amenities. Be sure to visit the Club Rio Outdoor Center: This sprawling area along the Arenal River offers kayaking, tubing, horseback riding, a wildlife sanctuary, and more! (Club Rio activities and are booked directly with the hotel concierge for an additional cost).

Dec 27

PRIVATE Arenal Hanging Bridges & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

Discover the beauty of the rainforest at the Arenal Hanging Bridges, where more than two miles of scenic trails wind through the forest and across 16 impressive bridges, including six suspended bridges soaring high above the canopy. Accompanied by your naturalist guide, you’ll explore different levels of the rainforest ecosystem, searching for wildlife and learning about the region’s remarkable biodiversity, all while enjoying spectacular views of Arenal Volcano.

Next, continue to La Fortuna Waterfall, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural attractions. Begin at the canyon overlook, where you’ll take in panoramic views of the dramatic waterfall and surrounding rainforest. From there, descend approximately 530 steps to the base of the falls for a closer look at the powerful cascade. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, as you’ll have time to swim in the cool, refreshing waters and capture photos of this stunning setting. After your visit, enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch before returning to your hotel. Overnight The Springs Resort & Spa.

Dec 28

Arenal ‘Sky Tram & Trek’ Canopy Zipline (shared)

Ride the Sky Tram to the top of the Arenal Reserve, enjoying spectacular views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal along the way. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll arrive at a scenic observation platform where your guides will provide a brief safety orientation before your ziplining adventure begins.

The Sky Trek zipline course takes you soaring high above the rainforest canopy on a series of seven exhilarating cables stretching across the mountainside. As you glide through the treetops, take in breathtaking views of the volcano, the lake, and the surrounding forest. The cables range from approximately 30 to 750 meters (100 to 2,460 feet) in length and 20 to 200 meters (65 to 650 feet) in height, offering an unforgettable perspective from above the forest canopy and some of the most impressive panoramic views in the region. Overnight The Springs Resort & Spa.

Height and weight restrictions apply. Please inquire for details.

Dec 29

Morning transfer to Liberia for departure

This morning, meet your driver transfer by ground, approximately 3 hours to the international airport in Liberia OR 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.

Compare Similar Vacations