Forests, Sea, and Every Thrill In Between: Offbeat Costa Rica with Tess

duration
6 days · 5 nights
travel date
Feb 3 - 8, 2026
activity level
Moderate
group size
6 – 10
transportation
Group vehicle
Your TourHero
tourhero
Tess Arnold
bio

Hi! I'm Tess, a passionate traveler, trip planner, and face behind the travel blog, Traveling Tessie. I'm curating small-group trips around the globe to build authentic connections with like-minded people and share with you some of the best each destination has to offer! It's all about exploring, enjoying local culture, and creating unforgettable experiences together. If you're ready for an adventure of a lifetime, I'd love for you to join me!

Costa Rica > Forests, Sea, and Every Thrill In Between: Offbeat Costa Rica with Tess

Adventure, stunning views, and the pura vida way – this (and so more) awaits you in Costa Rica! Over six days, you’ll be kayaking on Arenal Lake, hiking to the jaw-dropping Rio Celeste, and snorkeling in waters so clear you’ll think you’re in a dream. From cruising the coast on a catamaran at sunset to soaking in hot springs in the rainforest, this trip has it all. You’ll experience Costa Rica like a local, connecting with nature, meeting awesome people, and discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, like local businesses carrying on centuries-old traditions and completely unspoiled forest. It’s the perfect getaway for anyone who is craving something fresh in their travels, creating memories that’ll last a lifetime all along the way. What are you waiting for? Claim your spot and come along with us!

Itinerary timeline
Day 1 · February 3, 2026 · San José & La Fortuna
Arrive in Costa Rica at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Group transfer from airport to accommodation (3 hours)
Lunch en route
Check in at Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs (or similar)
Free time
Dinner at local restaurant
Return to hotel
Free night
Day 2 · February 4, 2026 · La Fortuna
Cocoa, coffee, and culture
Don Juan Chocolate & Coffee Tour
Return to hotel
Free time
Day 3 · February 5, 2026 · La Fortuna
Breakfast
Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, boat ride and hiking at Arenal Lake
Return to hotel
Free time
Day 4 · February 6, 2026 · La Fortuna & Tamarindo
Breakfast and check out of hotel
Transfer to Tamarindo
Light hike at Tenorio Volcano National Park
Transfer to accommodation
Check in at Wyndham Tamarindo (or similar)
Free time
Day 5 · February 7, 2026 · Tamarindo
Breakfast
Free time
Catamaran sunset tour with cold lunch, snorkeling, and open bar
Return to hotel
Free night
Day 6 · February 8, 2026 · Departure
Breakfast and check out of hotel
Group transfer from accommodation to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · February 3, 2026
Costa Rican cool

-Welcome to Costa Rica! After landing at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), we’ll hop on a group transfer for a scenic 3-hour drive through the lush countryside, getting to know our travel crew all along the way.

-A quick stop for lunch gives us our first taste of the local flavors.

-Once we arrive at our hotel nestled in the lush landscapes of La Fortuna, you'll check in and get settled, refreshing for the night ahead.

-In the evening, we’ll head to a nearby local restaurant to enjoy authentic Costa Rican cuisine and a toast to fun times ahead.

-After dinner, head back to the hotel for a free night to relax or explore at your own pace. Welcome to your tropical adventure!

Day 2 · February 4, 2026
Cocoa, coffee, and culture

-We are diving into a quintessential Costa Rican experience – touring cacao and coffee production facilities!

-On our Don Juan Chocolate & Coffee Tour, you'll get the lowdown on how Costa Rica’s famous chocolate and coffee are made, from bean to bar and farm to cup. This hands-on tour is a perfect chance to learn about the culture and history behind these iconic products (and, of course, get some tastes along the way).

-After an afternoon of fun facts and community connection, we’ll return to the hotel. Then, it’s a free day from here, so make it yours! Relax, explore the rainforest, or chill at the hot springs.

Day 3 · February 5, 2026
A day on the lake

-It’s time to get active with a day of water and land adventures around Arenal Lake.

-We are taking a hike to get the best vantage points, zipping by on a boat ride, and then taking on the lake ourselves with time for kayaking and paddleboarding. Fresh air, calm waters, and great company!

-Once we’ve worked up a sweat, we’ll head back to the hotel to relax and recharge. You’ll have the rest of the day free to enjoy the surroundings, swim, or just take it easy. We are heading to our next spot tomorrow, so soak up all La Fortuna has to offer today!

Day 4 · February 6, 2026
To the coast

-After breakfast and check-out, we’ll hit the road for a scenic transfer to Tamarindo, but not before a little adventure en route!

-We’ll stop for a light hike at Tenorio Volcano National Park, where you'll explore lush trails that lead to the stunning Rio Celeste, known for its striking blue waters. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and connect with nature, plus get those travel-envy-inducing IG photos.

-Once we’ve wrapped up the hike, we’ll continue our journey to the coast, arriving at our beachfront accommodation. Can you feel the ocean breeze?

-After checking in, you’ve got free time to enjoy the beach, check out the local shops, or just kick back in this coastal haven. Welcome to paradise!

Day 5 · February 7, 2026
Sailing into the sunset

-Good morning, sunshine! It’s our final full day in Costa Rica, and we are beginning it schedule-free to soak up Tamarindo’s offerings. Bob in the waves, arrange your own surfing lesson, or try some more local eats. Perhaps even a hike or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, a nap on the beach (no judgement here – the surf really lulls you to sleep!).

-Then, get ready for an unforgettable afternoon with a catamaran sunset tour. We’ll set sail along the coast, enjoying a cold lunch onboard and getting the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, spotting tropical fish and maybe even a sea turtle or two. Plus, the open bar will be slinging drinks and keeping the vibes up high.

-Watch the sky turn into a masterpiece of colors at sunset and reflect on the incredible experience you’ve had here. Isn’t it lovely?

-After returning to the hotel, you’ve got a free night to relax or hit up the vibrant Tamarindo nightlife – it’s our last night, after all!

Day 6 · February 8, 2026
Hasta luego, Costa Rica

-After breakfast and check-out, we’ll head out for our final transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Keep your cameras ready for your final snapshots of the ever-changing Costa Rican landscapes.

-Whether it was kayaking on Arenal, exploring hidden trails, or soaking in those epic sunsets, Costa Rica has left its mark. Until next time!

Tour Price
USD 3,600
per person
Flexible payment plans available
13 people are interested
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Your fellow explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Off-the-beaten-path adventures, nature, exploration, local connections
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
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs (or similar according to availability)

Nestled in the heart of the rainforest, Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs offers the perfect mix of nature and comfort. With natural hot springs, lush hiking trails, and cozy rooms, it’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventure. You'll feel completely immersed in the beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying all the modern amenities you need to relax and recharge. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: 2 beds.

Wyndham Tamarindo (or similar according to availability)

Wyndham Tamarindo is a beachfront paradise located along Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific coast, offering stunning ocean views and easy access to the vibrant town of Tamarindo. With modern rooms, an infinity pool, and on-site dining, it provides the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal base for beach lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: 2 beds.

Included
  • 3 nights accommodation in La Fortuna

  • 2 nights accommodation in Tamarindo

  • Shared double occupancy in accommodation

  • All breakfasts

  • Lunch on day 1 and 6

  • Dinner on day 1

  • 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 28, 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 29, 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 28, 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 supplement

Upgrade to total privacy with a room of your own for the duration of our journey.

USD 1,300
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