

Costa Rica: An In-depth Exploration for the Independent Adventurer
Costa Rica, a tropical and stunning country, is an integral part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, where fascinating volcanic activity constantly reshapes the local geology. A journey to Costa Rica is an expedition filled with diverse experiences amidst lush nature reserves: some situated along the mountainous chain of the Sierra Madre, others bordering the stunning blue shores, and some nestled deep within rainforests with vast natural expanses. Every year, an increasing number of tourists visit Costa Rica to explore its rich and captivating natural beauty.
Adrenaline enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will find abundant opportunities for attractive activities in the natural reserves: hiking in rainforests, snorkeling and diving tours, and even surfing enthusiasts will discover thrilling action here. We invite you to surrender to the magic of Costa Rica, to experience the captivating nature, and to enjoy an abundance of unforgettable experiences.
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This is a mere example of a highly successful trip organized by Aujo Travel which may serve as a basis for a tailor made itinerary for either independent or organized tour groups.
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Our Suggested Itinerary - Explore a past Aujo Travel trip for your next adventure
Day 1 | San Jose
We will embark on a flight to San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. Upon arrival at San Jose's airport, we will meet the local driver outside the terminal, holding a sign with your name, and head to the hotel in San Jose.
Day 2 | San Jose - Tortuguero Nature Reserve (B, L, D)
This morning, we will start our journey towards the Tortuguero Nature Reserve. Due to the early departure, breakfast will be arranged at a local restaurant along the way. We will continue our journey to the Marina / Cano Blanco pier, where we will join a group of travelers for an adventurous day. The day begins with a boat ride along the river and parallel canals, leading us to the “Tortuguero National Park”. Upon arrival at the nature reserve, we will have a close encounter with the park's wildlife. Lunch will be served at the hotel, followed by an afternoon tour of the Tortuguero village on a narrow strip of land between the sea and the main canal. This small village is where the roots of reggae music, known worldwide today, originated. The reserve boasts a wide variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, various monkey species, reptiles, and diverse bird species. Dinner will be served at the hotel, and afterwards, you can enjoy a free evening in the local lodge.
Day 3 | Tortuguero
If you choose to explore on foot or take a guided kayak tour through the Tortuguero canals, the options are available. Lunch will be served at the hotel, and in the afternoon, we can take a private tour of the lodge's private trails until the end of the Sabbath. Accommodation and dinner will be in the Tortuguero Nature Reserve.
Day 4 | Tortuguero - Arenal Nature Reserve - Tabacón Hot Springs (B, L, D)
This morning, we will depart from the Caribbean coast toward the city of Guapiles. At 1:00 PM, we will meet our private guide for the day and embark on a journey to explore the northern part of the Alajuela region, passing through diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Our destination is the Arenal Volcano, the central tourism site in the area. The tropical rains that fall here annually rejuvenate the land, resulting in lush greenery. The natural vegetation in the lowlands is nourished by rivers, hot springs, lagoons, and small natural reserves that make up the Arenal Volcano Nature Reserve. After settling in at the hotel, we will engage in various activities in the coming days. Dinner will be served at the hotel, followed by a relaxing evening at the local lodge.
Day 5 | Arenal - Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfalls, Walking Tour in Arnal Nature Reserve (B, L, D)
This morning, we will embark on one of the enjoyable experiences in the Arenal Volcano Nature Reserve. We will explore hanging bridges, walking through a rich tropical forest with thick vegetation and diverse wildlife. We will pass through various bridges, waterfalls, and special viewpoints. Some bridges are fixed, with lengths ranging from 8 to 22 meters, while others are hanging bridges with lengths varying between 48 to 98 meters. We will then enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding nature with a breathtaking vantage point. After the bridge tour, we will proceed to La Fortuna Waterfalls, where we will take a leisurely walk along the side of the flowing water to reach a natural swimming pool surrounded by giant rocks. Lunch will be provided at the location, and afterwards, we will go on a walking tour of the Arnal Nature Reserve, including an ascent to the Toucan Trail, reaching a spectacular viewpoint of the Arenal Volcano, the lake, and the hot springs.
Day 6 | Arenal Nature Reserve - Rio Celeste (B)
This morning, after enjoying breakfast at the hotel in the Arnal Nature Reserve, we will depart for the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Our journey will involve a 4-hour guided walk through a slow and serene walk in the tropical cloud forest that leads us to Los Tercios, the famous meeting point of the Rio Celeste (Sky Blue River). The water creates a reflection with a blue tint, and its beautiful waters are what gave the river its name. From the river area, we will continue a rich ecological path, observing the attractions of the Tenorio Volcano.
Day 7 | Arenal Nature Reserve - Monteverde Nature Reserve - Activities - Night Tour (B)
Today, we bid farewell to the Arnal Nature Reserve and our gracious hosts. We will travel to Santa Elena and visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, situated in an area where there are impressive views of the Nicoya Gulf and the nearby islands. Our journey through this beautiful forest, called "the green mountain," will provide us with an opportunity to encounter a vast array of animal and plant species, thanks to private organizations that have worked tirelessly to make this nature reserve biologically rich. Upon reaching the reserve, we will embark on a 2.5 km walking trail through the forest, passing through six different bridges that make up the park's bridge system. After the walking trail, we will take a cable car ride to enjoy an aerial view of the cloud forest, the Arenal
Day 9 | Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve - Kayaking to Damas Island (B)
This morning we will embark on a guided tour in the park, which includes a beautiful seaside, mangroves, a chain of islands, tropical forest, and the beautiful Ponte Cathedral with its unique structure. The park, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, features four distinct beaches, each with its special characteristics. The tour will be led by a professional guide in the park, renowned in the Costa Rica coast, showcasing a diverse range of butterfly species, monkeys, raccoons, and other tail-wearing creatures, snakes, and aquatic animals. In the afternoon, depending on sea conditions, we will kayak on an eco-friendly boat through the picturesque waters of Damas Island. The boat is designed for comfort while ensuring the safety of passengers. An ecological guide with expertise in the rich local ecology will present the diverse biological connections among the many organisms living in this delicate environment. After the tour, we will return to the hotel for Shabbat rest.
Day 10 | Garden of Eden - Manuel Antonio Reserve (B)
A free day in the Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve area, a perfect time for relaxation or additional independent activities according to your preferences.
Day 11 | Private Boat Tour in Manuel Antonio Reserve (B)
This morning, we will embark on an adventure, almost the last one of our journey. It will start at the Quepos harbor, where we'll board a boat that will take us from the clear waters of the harbor to the open sea along the picturesque coast of the amazing Manuel Antonio Park. We might get to see dolphins swimming near the bow, whales, sea turtles, monkeys, and an abundance of birds, all part of the scenery. During the boat ride, we will discover mysterious islands, cliffs, and rocks with unique shapes that serve as a home to various bird species and waterfowl such as pelicans, frigatebirds, and more. After the boat tour, we will leave the Manuel Antonio Reserve area and travel to San Jose for an overnight stay.
Day 12 | San Jose - Coffee Tour at Doka Estate - Poas Volcano - San Jose (B, L)
This morning, we will leave the hotel and set out for a tour of the Poas Volcano National Park. If time allows, we will stop at the "Doka" coffee plantation, one of the famous brands in the country. Here, in the coffee farms, we will learn about the traditional handcrafted process of making coffee – from nurturing and picking to roasting the coffee beans until the final product. During the tour, we will receive an entertaining lesson about the cultivation of beans and, for dessert, taste samples of various coffee types. After the experiential tour, we will continue to the Poas Volcano Nature Reserve. The Poas Volcano is one of the few active volcanoes that can be reached almost up to the crater, which stretches over 1.5 km. In addition, on its summit, defined as "smoking," is another impressive crater. Despite being an active volcano, it is safe enough to enjoy the observation. After the volcano tour, we will proceed to La Paz Waterfall Gardens and the stunning gardens where the world's largest butterfly observatory is located. There are also honey bear cubs and orchid gardens along the La Paz River trails leading to five large waterfalls. After the tour, we will return to our hotel in San Jose for an overnight stay.