Itinerary
- Day 1
Arrival in San José
You'll land at Juan Santamaria International Airport where your GWA representative meets you outside baggage claim. From there it's a private transfer to your hotel in San José, giving you time to settle in and get oriented to the city.
- Day 2
San José to Tenorio/Bijagua
After breakfast at your hotel, you'll pick up your rental car and head north toward the Tenorio and Bijagua area. The drive takes you through changing landscapes as you approach Tenorio National Park, where Rio Celeste flows with its distinctive turquoise color. You'll have the evening free, and there's an optional night hike available if you want to experience the rainforest after dark.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Night hike in the Tenorio/Bijagua area
Landmarks/POIs Tenorio National Park Río Celeste - Day 3
Tenorio/Bijagua
Following breakfast, you'll spend the day exploring Rio Celeste within Tenorio Volcano National Park. You can hike through the park's trails, see where underground volcanic deposits create that striking turquoise water, and walk through the surrounding rainforest with its diverse plant and animal life.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Explore Río Celeste through Tenorio Volcano National Park
Landmarks/POIs Tenorio Volcano National Park Río Celeste - Day 4
Tenorio/Bijagua to Tárcoles
You'll drive south toward the Tarcoles Zone on your way to the Central Pacific region. The Tarcoles River here is known for its bird populations and wildlife. An optional riverboat tour lets you get closer to crocodiles, various bird species, and the thick vegetation lining the water's edge.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Riverboat tour on the Tárcoles River to see crocodiles, birds, and vegetation
Landmarks/POIs Tárcoles River - Day 5
Tárcoles to Esterillos
After driving to the coastal town of Esterillos on the Pacific side, you're right on the beach with golden sand and warm water. Spend your time relaxing, swimming, trying activities like surfing, or just walking along the shoreline and getting to know the area.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Beach activities and exploration in Esterillos
Landmarks/POIs Esterillos Beach - Day 6
Esterillos
You have the full day free in Esterillos to do as you like. Most people spend time on the beach soaking up the sun and ocean air, but you can also explore nearby attractions, check out local restaurants, or head out to spot wildlife in the surrounding areas.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Explore Esterillos and surrounding attractions
Landmarks/POIs Esterillos Beach - Day 7
Esterillos to San José
You'll have breakfast and then drive back to San José, arriving in the afternoon. The rest of your day is unscheduled, so you can explore the capital's neighborhoods and museums, grab dinner at a local restaurant, or simply relax at your hotel.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Explore San José city
- Day 8
Departure from San José
After returning your rental car, you'll head to Juan Santamaria International Airport for your flight home, bringing your Costa Rica journey to a close.
- Meals
- Breakfast
