Eco Exploration in Costa Rica: 7 Days of Nature's Magic with Haley Palmer

duration
7 days · 6 nights
travel date
Mar 1 - 7, 2026
activity level
Moderate
group size
6 – 10
transportation
Group vehicle, boat
Your TourHero
tourhero
Haley
bio

Hi! I'm Haley, an avid adventure seeker with a mission to see what this world has to teach me. This trip to Costa Rica is designed with the beginner in mind, but will be an incredible experience for even the most seasoned traveler. You'll get to experience the lush forests of Costa Rica, learn how to make tortillas from scratch, and even zen out with a yoga class. My favorite part of travel is the people you meet along the way, and I can't wait to meet YOU in Costa Rica!! If you've been waiting for a sign... this is it:)

Costa Rica > Eco Exploration in Costa Rica: 7 Days of Nature's Magic with Haley Palmer

Trading city streets for rainforest trails, this Costa Rica adventure is designed for those who crave the thrill of the wild and the serenity of untouched nature. From gliding through the winding canals of Tortuguero in search of monkeys and toucans, to feeling the mist of La Fortuna’s iconic waterfall on your skin, every day brings a new way to connect with the outdoors. Guided by local experts, you’ll trek through dense jungles, spot sloths in their natural habitat, and even try your hand at traditional tortilla-making on a working farm. This retreat away from the world promises unforgettable moments and the chance to experience Pura Vida at its most authentic. Book now and secure your spot today!

Itinerary timeline
Day 1 · March 1, 2026 · San José
Arrive in Costa Rica at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Group transfer from airport to accommodation
Check in at Hotel Presidente (or similar)
Free time
Welcome dinner at local restaurant
Day 2 · March 2, 2026 · San José & Tortuguero
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Transfer to boat pier
Boat to Tortuguero
Check in at Pachira Lodge (or similar)
Lunch at lodge
Guided tour of Tortuguero
Return to lodge
Dinner at lodge
Day 3 · March 3, 2026 · Tortuguero
Breakfast at lodge
Boat tour of Tortuguero National Park
Private trail trek with local guide
Free time
Return to lodge
Lunch at lodge
Free time
Dinner at lodge
Day 4 · March 4, 2026 · Tortuguero & La Fortuna
Breakfast at lodge and checkout
Boat to main dock
Transfer to Guápiles for lunch stop
Transfer to La Fortuna
Check in at Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience (or similar)
Free time
Dinner
Day 5 · March 5, 2026 · La Fortuna
Breakfast at hotel
La Fortuna waterfall trek
Vida Campesina tour and tortilla making experience (includes lunch)
Return to hotel
Free night
Day 6 · March 6, 2026 · La Fortuna
Breakfast at hotel
Sloth Territory observation tour
Return to hotel
Yoga class
Free night
Day 7 · March 7, 2026 · Departure
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Group transfer from accommodation to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · March 1, 2026
Welcome to paradise - Pura Vida vibes only

-Touch down in Costa Rica’s vibrant capital, San José, where the adventure begins.

-After a smooth transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport, settle in and take some time to explore the city’s lively streets or simply relax after your flight.

-As evening falls, gather with your group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Costa Rican cuisine and getting your first taste of the country’s warm hospitality and culinary traditions. Dig in!

Day 2 · March 2, 2026
Into the wild: Journey to Tortuguero

-Start the day with breakfast before heading out on a scenic transfer to the boat pier, where you’ll board a riverboat bound for Tortuguero. This remote village, only accessible by water or air, is nestled between winding canals and the Caribbean Sea.

-After checking in at your lodge, enjoy a hearty lunch and embark on a guided tour of Tortuguero. Known as the ‘Amazon of Costa Rica,’ Tortuguero is famous for its lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, and as a nesting ground for sea turtles.

-Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 3 · March 3, 2026
Rainforest encounters: Exploring Tortuguero National Park

-Awaken to the calls of tropical birds and enjoy breakfast before setting out on a boat tour through Tortuguero National Park. Glide along the park’s labyrinth of waterways, keeping watch for monkeys, caimans, toucans, and sloths in their natural habitat.

-Later, join a private trail trek with a local guide, who will share insights into the region’s unique flora and fauna. The afternoon offers free time to relax or further explore the area.

-As dusk settles, return to the lodge and recount the day’s wildlife sightings over dinner.

Day 4 · March 4, 2026
Volcano views: From Tortuguero to La Fortuna

-After breakfast and checkout, journey by boat back to the main dock and continue by road to Guápiles for a lunch stop.

-The adventure continues as you travel to La Fortuna, a gateway to the iconic Arenal Volcano. Upon arrival, take in the dramatic landscape of rolling hills and volcanic peaks.

-Check in and enjoy some free time – perhaps a soak in the region’s famous hot springs – before dinner and a restful night, preparing for tomorrow’s adventures.

Day 5 · March 5, 2026
Waterfalls and local traditions in La Fortuna

-Fuel up with breakfast before trekking to La Fortuna Waterfall, where a 70-meter cascade plunges into a turquoise pool surrounded by lush rainforest.

-After the invigorating hike, immerse yourself in Costa Rican rural life with a Vida Campesina tour. Learn about sustainable farming practices and join a hands-on tortilla-making experience, savoring your creations for lunch.

-The afternoon and evening are yours to explore La Fortuna’s lively town or unwind at your leisure.

Day 6 · March 6, 2026
Slow flow with yoga and the local sloths

-Rise and shine with a guided observation tour in Sloth Territory, a sanctuary dedicated to one of Costa Rica’s most beloved animals! Learn about sloth behavior and conservation efforts while spotting these gentle creatures in their natural environment.

-Return to the hotel and rejuvenate with a yoga class, surrounded by the tranquility of La Fortuna’s landscapes.

-Enjoy a free evening to reflect on your journey or seek out more local experiences.

Day 7 · March 7, 2026
Fond farewells to new friends and that Pura Vida vibe

-Savor a final breakfast before checking out and transferring back to Juan Santamaría International Airport.

-As your Costa Rican adventure comes to a close, depart with unforgettable memories of rainforests, volcanoes, wildlife, and the pura vida spirit that defines this remarkable country. Safe travels – until we meet again!

Tour Price
USD 2,435
per person
Flexible payment plans available
20 people are interested
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Your fellow explorers
Age range
18+
Travel interest
Hiking, nature & wildlife, outdoor adventures, relaxation
Your local guide
With more than 30 years of experience in the travel industry, Best of Costa Rica endeavors to provide unique and memorable experiences on personalized trips for guests in Costa Rica. Committed to guaranteeing the best travel experiences while also ensuring a sustainable tourism operation, the team at Best of Costa Rica pride themselves on their reliability, professionalism, and environmental social responsibility. If you’re looking for unique, memorable and tailor-made trips in Costa Rica that match your interests and preferences, you can rest assured that the team will curate the perfect itinerary for you, and execute the trip in a seamless, safe, and sustainable way. Let them take care of all the little details and do what they do best!
Accommodation
Hotel Presidente (or similar according to availability)

Hotel Presidente sits in the heart of San José, surrounded by the city's best cultural spots, street art, and historic architecture. This eco-conscious boutique hotel blends modern design with local charm, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop lounge with city views, and easy access to museums, markets, and the lively Barrio Amón district. Perfect for travelers looking to experience the energy of Costa Rica’s capital while staying in a creative, comfortable space. Hotel Presidente sits in the heart of San José, surrounded by the city's best cultural spots, street art, and historic architecture. This eco-conscious boutique hotel blends modern design with local charm, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop lounge with city views, and easy access to museums, markets, and the lively Barrio Amón district. Perfect for travelers looking to experience the energy of Costa Rica’s capital while staying in a creative, comfortable space. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Pachira Lodge (or similar according to availability)

Pachira Lodge is a secluded jungle escape in Tortuguero, surrounded by lush rainforest and winding canals teeming with wildlife. This eco-lodge offers comfortable cabins, a riverfront pool, and guided tours that bring you closer to sloths, toucans, and sea turtles. With its immersive location and nature-focused amenities, it’s the perfect base for exploring one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions. Hotel Presidente sits in the heart of San José, surrounded by the city's best cultural spots, street art, and historic architecture. This eco-conscious boutique hotel blends modern design with local charm, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop lounge with city views, and easy access to museums, markets, and the lively Barrio Amón district. Perfect for travelers looking to experience the energy of Costa Rica’s capital while staying in a creative, comfortable space. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience (or similar according to availability)

Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience sits in the heart of La Fortuna, offering breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and direct access to natural hot springs. The lush, garden-filled property features thermal pools, spa treatments, and spacious rooms with private terraces, creating the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Ideal for travelers looking to explore waterfalls, rainforest trails, and volcanic landscapes while unwinding in a tranquil, thermal-powered retreat. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Included
  • 1 night accommodation in San José

  • 2 nights accommodation in Tortuguero

  • 3 nights accommodation in La Fortuna

  • Shared double occupancy in accommodation

  • All breakfasts

  • Lunch days 2, 3, 4, 5

  • Dinner days 1, 2, 3, 4

  • One group airport arrival transfer

  • One group airport departure transfer

  • All activities described in the itinerary

  • Local guides during activities

  • Entrance fees where applicable with included activities

Not included
  • Flights

  • International airport departure tax

  • Visas

  • All food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions

  • Personal expenses

  • Optional add-ons

  • Travel insurance

  • Gratuities

FAQ
Cancellation policy

Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.

Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Nov 26, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT -6), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.

If you cancel your trip from Nov 27, 2025 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT -6) onwards, no refunds will be issued.

You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.

Trip disclaimer
To offer the best group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers. If that number isn't met—or if unexpected events occur (such as force majeure)—TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may need to cancel or reschedule.


If changes happen: You'll be notified by Nov 26, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT -6), and if the trip is canceled or rescheduled beyond your control, you'll get a full refund. We'll always update you at least 7 days in advance if this date changes.


Book smart: We recommend refundable flights and accommodations to protect your plans from any last-minute changes.

Available add-ons
Single room upgrade

Upgrade to a private room for the duration of your trip.

USD 450
2 spots left