
Nature called you to Costa Rica — now here you are, suspended in the jungle canopy, locking eyes with a curious monkey. This action-packed tour of Costa Rica’s highlights is perfect for the adventurer with limited time who wants to explore the region’s diversity. Get your adrenaline pumping, follow a trail to the base of a waterfall, explore Manuel Antonio National Park, or relax on a beach — your CEO will help you find the secluded spots only the locals know.
All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.
Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.
Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12
All travelers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
From the moment you arrive in San José, this journey is designed to bring you face-to-face with the beauty, wildlife, and energy of Costa Rica. After meeting your small group and guide, the adventure truly begins in La Fortuna, where the Arenal Volcano sets the backdrop for endless outdoor experiences. You’ll visit a community-run coffee cooperative and learn firsthand how coffee supports local farmers, then settle into La Fortuna for two days of exploration. Here you can hike rainforest trails, swim at the base of La Fortuna Waterfall, or simply soak in the region’s natural hot springs. For thrill-seekers, optional adventures include canyoning, waterfall jumping, paddleboarding on Lake Arenal, and whitewater rafting through scenic river canyons.
The journey continues into the magical Monteverde Cloud Forest, where a guided night walk introduces you to nocturnal life under the dense canopy. Monteverde offers a day full of choice: glide through the treetops on a zipline, cross hanging bridges suspended in mist, ride horseback through the hills, or explore local cooperatives and butterfly gardens. Each option lets you see a different side of this lush, biodiverse region.
On the Pacific Coast, the laid-back town of Quepos welcomes you with sun, surf, and access to Manuel Antonio National Park. With its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant wildlife, Manuel Antonio is the perfect place to slow down and savor Costa Rica’s coastal charm. Optional activities here include sailing along the rugged coastline, kayaking through mangroves, or learning to surf the local waves. Keep your eyes open—you may spot dolphins offshore or monkeys swinging through the trees.
This adventure balances activity with flexibility. Whether you want to test your limits with adrenaline-packed excursions or take it easy with a stroll, swim, or sunset, Intentional Journeys ensures you’ll experience Costa Rica at your own pace. From volcanoes to cloud forests to beaches, every stop offers something unforgettable.
Our tours have inclusions and optional activities. When planning your trip, we will discuss these with you to determine what your interests are to create the perfect intentional journey.
Arrive at any time. There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.
Drive to Sarapiquí to visit the G Adventures-supported Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation. Learn about the impact this project has had on the community and sample some of the products they sell. Continue on to the Arenal region and take advantage of a free afternoon and a full free day tomorrow to experience the adventure activities and natural wonders of the area. La Fortuna is an excellent base for adventure. Opt to hike the area’s nature trails, swim in chilly La Fortuna waterfall or go canyoning.
Free day in La Fortuna. Experience the outdoor adventures, amazing wildlife and natural wonders in this area. There are enough activities here to keep you busy all day long. In the evening opt to soak in one of the many hot springs in the area to cap off an adventurous day. Spend the day getting your adrenaline pumping, viewing local wildlife, marvelling at the Arenal Volcano and getting to know more about Costa Rica in La Fortuna. There are enough activities here to keep you busy all day long.
Travel by van and boat through the stunning Costa Rican scenery up into the cloud forest. Take an included guided night walk to learn about nocturnal life in the jungle firsthand. Travel across Lake Arenal into the mountains and on to Monteverde Cloud Forest. Arrive to spend time enjoying this nature-lover's paradise.
Enjoy a free day to explore the cloud forest region of Costa Rica. Opt to fly across canopy ziplines, walk across suspended bridges through the forest canopy, or go horseback riding in the hills.
Travel to Quepos, just outside Manuel Antonio National Park. Opt to visit the park or relax on the beach in this fun surf town. Enjoy a night out and perhaps learn how to dance salsa. Travel to the Pacific Coast. Enjoy Quepos. Opt to swim, fish, kayak, surf or take a sailing trip.
Enjoy an included entrance into Manuel Antonio National Park. Then, take advantage of free time to explore. Opt to swim in the Pacific. Or choose to kayak through mangroves and relax on the beach.
Opt to chill at the beach or sail the Pacific in the morning before the journey by private vehicle back to the capital. Pre-book the Manuel Antonio Catamaran Tour on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
Depart at any time.
These questions are about Intentional Journeys, but if you have specific questions abou this tour, then contact us or use our Inquiry Form on this page.
Definitely — you can climb a volcano one day and unwind at a beachfront spa the next.
Yes — we can integrate meaningful volunteer opportunities into any trip, from half-day projects to multi-day programs.
Yes, we specialize in multi-destination itineraries that make the most of your time abroad.
We partner with trusted providers like Globus, Intrepid, and G Adventures, Apple Vacations, Delta Vacations, Funjet Vacations and many more — known for safety, sustainability, and authentic experiences.
Yes, for some complex or customized itineraries, we charge a planning fee that’s applied toward your final trip cost. This covers research, itinerary creation, and vendor coordination.
For international travel, 6–12 months ahead is ideal. For destination weddings or volunteer trips, 12–18 months is recommended.
Absolutely! We create itineraries for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups, with options for joining like-minded travelers.
Yes, and we highly recommend it for all travelers to protect against unexpected changes, delays, or emergencies.
Yes! Whether you’re into hiking, wine tasting, wildlife, photography, or food, we’ll weave your passions into the itinerary.
We specialize in personalized adventure travel, voluntourism, and destination celebrations, ensuring each trip is crafted to match your interests, comfort level, and values.
Since 2007, Intentional Journeys has gone beyond basic travel bookings and into personal adventures. From active getaways to destination weddings to voluntourism, every trip is thoughtfully designed, expertly managed, and fully supported.
Work with a real Wisconsin-based agent who’s available before, during, and after your journey.
Certified in Active & Adventure travel, I create thrilling, safe, and enriching experiences.
I guide you through claims and offer support if things change unexpectedly offering peace of mind.
Access everything through app with real-time itinerary updates, location info, travel documents, and more.
Every trip is tailored through thoughtful conversations, not cookie-cutter packages.
I handle the details from before you leave until you arrive home so you can relax and enjoy the journey.
Experience travel that connects you with local communities and cultures, not just landmarks.
Add purpose to your trip with optional, low-commitment volunteer experiences and donations.
Travel planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With Intentional Journeys, you get a trusted advisor who listens, plans, and supports you every step of the way.
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