Duration: 7 Days
Livin’ la Pura Vida! This philosophy of the pure life in Costa Rica is also a common greeting you’ll hear on your Independence by Globus tour. From the mind-blowing lava trails and soul-soothing thermal springs of the Arenal Volcano region to the lush tropical forests in the clouds of Monteverde, you’ll encounter pure nature of Costa Rica’s rich and resplendent flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. Put your head in the clouds in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, home to over 3,000 plant species, some 120 mammal species, 400 bird species, and 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles. Add a dose of I-time to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture and cuisine in San José, and you’re living your best life, indeed!
Traveller Notes
- Transportation: As outlined in the day-by-day itinerary
- Guides: in San José
- Hotels on this holiday are on request for the Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays. These times may have a supplemental cost.
Welcome to Costa Rica! Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Today, transfer to the lush town of Arenal, located in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. Settle in and experience the magic of your resort.
This afternoon, visit the famous hot springs the area is known for and take a dip in the natural springs and pools of mineral waters surrounded by lush, tropical forest. Enjoy dinner at the hot springs. (B,D)
Today is at your leisure to explore on your own or perhaps take an optional excursion. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
Perhaps visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a network of suspension bridges, platforms, and trails built in the cloud forest. From here, explore the forest canopy with a bird's-eye view, giving you a different perspective of the forest's wildlife. Alternatively, you may choose a rafting or horseback riding adventure.
This morning, your transfer begins with a short boat ride across Arenal Lake to admire different species of birds that visit and call the area home. Continue through incredible mountain scenery and the Monteverde Cloud Forest, home to over 3,000 plant species, approximately 120 mammal species, 400 bird species, and 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles.
This evening, venture into Monteverde's Cloud Forest just before nightfall with an expert Naturalist for a guided nature walk to search for the jungle's nocturnal creatures, like sloths, foxes, agoutis, frogs, and many more! (B)
Enjoy a day to do as you please today with options to choose from if you like. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
Maybe wake up early and visit Santa Elena Cloud Forest to best experience the animals in their natural forest habitats. Discover this misty and surreal wildlife sanctuary full of mosses, ferns, flowers, and other indigenous plant life. Also, notice how the combination of climatic and geographic factors create temperature and humidity gradients, changing dramatically over just a short distance, or you could visit a local family's farm to learn about sugar cane, coffee, and tilapia farming.
Return to San Jose for your final night in Costa Rica. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
Perhaps visit one of Costa Rica's most authentic market, the San Jose Central Market featuring more than 350 booths selling everything imaginable, from spices and fish to hammocks and flowers.
Your holiday ends after breakfast this morning. (B)
