Christmas in Paradise: Papagayo & Arenal

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 lush tropical forest, the resort seamlessly blends contemporary design with natural elements inspired by the beauty of Guanacaste. 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.

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.

Papagayo 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.

Transfer to Tabacon Thermal Resort (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.

Arrive at the Tabacón Thermal Resort. Guests of Tabacón enjoy complimentary access to the resort’s renowned natural hot springs, where mineral-rich thermal waters flow through a series of lush tropical pools fed by the Arenal Volcano. Savor gourmet dining at Aves Restaurant or enjoy a meal surrounded by nature at Tucanes, located within the hot springs complex. Adults ages 18 and older also have exclusive access to the tranquil Shangri-La Gardens, a secluded area featuring private thermal pools, a bar, and spa services. With a blend of family-friendly accommodations and adults-only suites, Tabacón offers one of the most exceptional resort experiences in Arenal. For added convenience, the hotel concierge can assist with restaurant reservations, spa treatments, transportation arrangements, and additional tours and activities.

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 at Tabacón Thermal Resort.

Rio Balsa Whitewater Rafting Class II-III (shared)

Experience the excitement of whitewater rafting on the Balsa River, one of Costa Rica’s most popular rafting destinations. Featuring a mix of Class II and III rapids, the river is well suited for both first-time rafters and those seeking an active adventure. The first section of the river offers a series of continuous rapids with short calm stretches in between, while the second half becomes more relaxed, providing excellent opportunities to take in the surrounding scenery and spot local wildlife.

Flowing through the lush rainforest lowlands of Costa Rica’s Northern Zone, the Balsa River is surrounded by vibrant tropical landscapes. Keep an eye out for colorful birds, monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife that inhabit the forests along the riverbanks. Overnight at Tabacón Thermal Resort.

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 at Tabacón Thermal Resort.

Height and weight restrictions apply. Please inquire for details.

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.