Jungle, Volcano and Beach Paradise

Just 30 minutes from the airport, the boutique and luxurious hotel Grano de Oro is the perfect spot for some respite after your flight. Located on a quiet street, yet moments away from the bustling city’s restaurants and shops, take your time to either relax at the hotel or head out to explore San José on your first night. Enjoy the outdoor rooftop jacuzzi and spa, and dine in the top restaurant – of course treating yourself to their award-winning wine list.

Start your jungle adventure with two nights in one of the world’s most exquisite rainforest lodges – named as one of NatGeo’s Unique Lodges of the World and located deep within protected forests on the banks of the Pacuare River. For an exhilarating arrival at Pacuare Lodge, you’ll begin with a river rafting experience past tropical landscapes to reach its remote location on the river. Stay in a luxury bungalow, waking each morning to the sound of birdsong and running water, filling your days with adventure and dining by candlelight each evening. Hike through forests to discover waterfalls, take a Canopy Adventure tour, paddle, hike, follow ancient trails, or discover the local indigenous culture. After all of that excitement, indulge in a massage at the Jawa Juü Spa, sample the freshest fruit and Costa Rican delicacies, and enjoy your surroundings whilst learning more about the plants and animals that inhabit the forest you’ll call home.

After another breakfast feast, depart from Pacuare Lodge by white water rafting your way down the river, flowing through canyons and past waterfalls and virgin rainforest. Your next destination is Arenal Volcano in Northern Costa Rica; a region full of several protected areas, lakes, lagoons, volcanoes, rivers and waterfalls. The dormant volcano is covered with lush tropical rainforest, and Amor Arenal offers spectacular views from its position in the foothills of the volcano. As each cabin is a standalone unit, this hotel is perfect for those seeking a bit more privacy. Walk straight from your room to jungle trails, hike through Arenal on treetop hanging bridges, and trek through the rainforest of the volcano itself. Relax with the wellness experiences on offer; with spa treatments in an idyllic location and a yoga platform overlooking the rainforest canyon.

Santa Teresa is a favourite coastal spot – and it’s no surprise with its exquisite sandy beaches and world-class surf. Along this scenic stretch, a broad strip of forest hugs the shore and offers shady hideaways. Your hotel, Nantipa, is right on the beachfront, with just 15 private bungalows scattered amongst lush gardens and with private pools. The beachfront restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy fresh cocktails, a huge variety of seafood and an assortment of ceviche. Besides beach walking, there are many other pastimes on offer: you can enjoy fishing tours or sunset boat trips, snorkelling, kite surfing, horseback riding, or a canopy tour in Mal País.