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El Camino Costa Rica, 10 Days / 9 Nights

El Camino Costa Rica, 10 Days - Dive Discovery

El Camino de Costa Rica Trekking Tours Highlights

  • Unparalleled Scenic Diversity: Trek through lush rainforests, rolling mountains, and serene cloud forests.

  • Cultural Enrichment: Engage with rural communities and learn about their traditions and sustainable lifestyles.

  • Expert Guidance: Professional local guides enhance your experience with insights into the environment, history, and culture.

  • Adventure Meets Comfort: Charming lodges, excellent cuisine, and personalized touches make each day memorable.

Itinerary

Day 1

Upon your arrival at the airport and after passing through immigration and customs go to the exit of the airport terminal, look for a travel representative who will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name on it.

He/she will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Your driver will provide you with the travel letter for your services, you can review it with your guide during the orientation briefing early this evening in the hotel.

Day 2

Caribbean Bound – Lirio Lodge & Boca Pacuare Reserve
Experience Coastal Magic

Trek: Scenic drive to the Caribbean lowlands, followed by a boat transfer
Highlights: Explore the lush waterways of the Boca Pacuare Reserve and unwind at Lirio Lodge.

After a hearty breakfast and Costa Rican coffee, journey east through the stunning Braulio Carrillo National Park. Marvel at rugged mountains, dormant volcanoes, and lush rainforests before descending to the Caribbean lowlands. Board a boat at Muelle Goshen to reach your rainforest lodge. As you glide through emerald waterways, spot wildlife and soak in the magic of Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystem.

At Lirio Lodge, rustic charm meets comfort, offering an unforgettable introduction to the Caribbean region, creating an inviting retreat in the heart of nature. Guests can enjoy delicious cuisine and impeccably maintained, cozy rooms that enhance the overall experience. With the guidance of local experts, you’ll have the chance to explore the captivating Caribbean beaches under the starlit sky—an unforgettable experience, especially during the sea turtle nesting season (March to September), when you may witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Day 3

Cabecar Indian Reservation & Pacuare River
A journey to the unknown

Trek: Linda Vista to Tsiobata Indian Territory and Pacuare River (7–8 km, rainforest trails with steep and muddy sections).

Highlights: Discover indigenous Cabecar traditions, cross the Pacuare River by cable car, and immerse yourself in untouched rainforest landscapes.

Start your day with the natural symphony of howler monkeys and tropical birds outside your room. After a hearty breakfast, embark on an early boat transfer back to Goshen Dock, followed by a scenic bus ride to Linda Vista in Turrialba, the starting point of an unforgettable trek. Along the way, your local guide will introduce you to the unique “lengua Cabecar,” offering insights into the culture and traditions of this indigenous group.

This trek takes you through hidden parts of Costa Rica, rarely seen by locals or visitors. Wander through the Tsiobata Cabecar village, marvel at traditional huts, and admire the towering rainforest trees. Cross the Pacuare River in a thrilling cable car ride, taking in the lush diversity of the surrounding jungle, where large morpho butterflies accompany you along the trail.

As the forest gives way to rural farmland, you’ll encounter banana, cassava, and corn fields, along with pigs and chickens raised by local farmers. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe native farming practices and engage with the community. The trek concludes at your river lodge, nestled along the banks of the majestic Pacuare River—a serene and picturesque spot to rest and reflect on the day’s adventure.

Day 4

Thrils on the Pacuare River
Whitewater Rafting Adventure

Activity: Rafting Pacuare River (19 miles, Class III-IV rapids).

Highlights: Pristine rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and world class III-IV rapids.

Trade your hiking boots for a paddle as you take on the world-famous Pacuare River’s Class III-IV rapids. Today offers a well-deserved break for your legs as you switch gears to explore Costa Rica from the water. After breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating day surrounded by some of the country’s most pristine rainforest. Following a comprehensive safety briefing, gear up with state-of-the-art rafting equipment and set off on a thrilling 19-mile journey down the legendary Pacuare River. Navigate world-class Class III-IV rapids as you marvel at the breathtaking scenery of cascading waterfalls, lush jungle, and vibrant wildlife. Midway through the adventure, enjoy a delicious riverside picnic to recharge.

At the rafting take-out near Siquirres, a land transfer will bring you to the verdant Turrialba Valley, renowned for its lush agricultural landscapes and the commanding presence of Turrialba Volcano. Your accommodation tonight is the elegant Casa Turire, a charming hacienda nestled amidst tranquil farmland on the shores of La Angostura Lake. Here, you can stroll through vibrant gardens alive with tropical birds, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of this idyllic setting.

Day 5

El Humo to Tapanti National Park From Farms to Cloud Forests

Trek: El Humo to Tapanti (10 km, gravel roads, stream crossings, and rolling terrain).

Highlights: Coffee fields, cloud forest birds, and breathtaking valley views.

Your day begins with a transfer to the charming village of El Humo, where your trek kicks off amidst picturesque coffee and sugarcane fields. The trail transitions to secondary gravel roads with gentle ascents and descents, punctuated by small stream crossings. The first leg of the journey winds through rural ranch lands, providing an authentic glimpse into the agricultural heart of Costa Rica.

As you continue, the path ascends from the rainforest lowlands to the highlands, where the mystical cloud forest of Tapanti National Park awaits. Along the way, take in sweeping views of the cordilleras, which are nothing short of breathtaking. This part of the trek also offers your first chance to spot emblematic cloud forest birds, such as colourful tanagers and hummingbirds. Along the way, enjoy conversations with local “campesinos” who have cultivated coffee in these mountains for generations, adding a cultural touch to your adventure.

The trek concludes with a steep descent into the stunning Orosi Valley, where panoramic views of the lush landscape unfold before you. At the park's entrance, you’ll be picked up and whisked away to a well-earned lunch in a serene setting. Your day ends at the beautiful Hotel La Casona del Cafetal, a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature, a perfect place to relax and recharge.

Day 6

Cloud Forest Wonders in Muñeco Valley
Ascend to the Highlands

Trek: Muñeco to Palo Verde (8 km, challenging mountain trails along secondary roads).

Highlights: Orchids, towering oaks, and a chance to spot the elusive quetzal.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before a scenic drive to the quaint village of Muñeco de Navarro, the starting point for today’s trek. As you leave the farming roads behind, the trail immerses you in the magnificence of the cloud forest. Marvel at the vibrant biodiversity: mushrooms sprouting along the path, colourful flowers, tropical birds, and towering old-growth trees dominating the canopy.

Beginning at an elevation of 5,000 feet, your journey climbs to 6,500 feet, revealing cooler temperatures and distinct flora. Along the way, you'll notice crops like coffee thriving in the highland climate, as well as epiphytes such as “Barba de Viejo” (Old Man’s Beard) and delicate orchids adorning the branches. The trail offers unparalleled mountain views and is a haven for bird enthusiasts—listen closely for the calls of bellbirds and keep your eyes peeled for the dazzling quetzal.

At the end of the trail, you’ll arrive at Palo Verde del Guarco, a picturesque region nestled in the cooler cloud forest belt of the Talamanca. To celebrate your accomplishment, your guide will serve a freshly prepared mountainside lunch featuring local flavours and incredible panoramic views. Be enchanted by the variety of hummingbirds flitting around as you relax and savour your meal. Afterward, a short drive will take you to your cozy mountain lodge for a well-earned rest.

Day 7

Paraíso del Quetzal to Copey de Dota
A Sacred Trek

Trek: Paraíso to Copey (10 km, steep ascent and descent cloud forest trails and coffee farms).

Highlights: Resplendent Quetzal sightings, bamboo groves, and Costa Rica’s coffee belt.

Start your morning with a pre-breakfast outing to search for the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, a bird considered sacred by ancient indigenous cultures. Guided by a local expert, you’ll also encounter other fascinating avian species that inhabit the misty cloud forest. This serene and magical experience sets the tone for an unforgettable day.

After breakfast, begin your trek toward the Pacific side of Costa Rica. As you descend from 2,600 meters to 1,800 meters, you’ll notice a dramatic shift in the weather, with temperatures becoming noticeably warmer. The hike takes you through the highlands of Cerro de la Muerte, where the vegetation is distinctly different from lower altitudes. Towering oak trees dominate the forest, alongside bamboo thickets, lush ferns, bromeliads, and avocado trees.

As you move into the mid-elevations, the landscape transitions into the iconic coffee belt, where Costa Rica’s renowned coffee thrives. The fertile soil and temperate climate of this region create the perfect environment for some of the world’s best coffee plantations, offering a unique glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the area. Enjoy the changing scenery and the rich diversity of flora as you continue your descent into Copey.

Day 8

Napoles to Esquipulas – Journey to the Pacific Coast
Final Steps, Lasting Memories

Trek: Napoles to Esquipulas (10 km, mostly downhill).

Highlights: Meet local farmers, taste traditional cuisine, and savor Pacific views.

Today marks the final hike of your unforgettable Costa Rica adventure. After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the charming village of Napoles, where your journey begins. As you make your way step by step, you’ll feel the warm embrace of the Pacific air, a clear sign you’re nearing the coast.

A highlight of the day is a visit with Don Lilo and his wife, Maria, at their traditional coffee farm and trapiche (old-school sugarcane mill). They’ll warmly welcome you into their home, where you can enjoy freshly brewed, locally grown coffee paired with a delicious handmade tortilla. Their hospitality and stories offer a glimpse into the simple, rich traditions of rural Costa Rica.

The trail takes you through the foothills of Esquipulas and into the lush rainforest lowlands near Quepos. Along the way, savor spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean framed by sprawling coffee groves and majestic mountain landscapes. Reflect on the incredible diversity of landscapes, plants, and wildlife you’ve experienced throughout the week.

As your hike concludes, a transfer near Naranjito will bring you to the coast, but not before a celebratory stop at a small local bar for a “merecida cerveza” – a well-deserved beer! Wrap up your journey with two relaxing nights at the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio, where the vibrant tropical ambiance is the perfect way to end your Costa Rican adventure.

Day 9

Highlights: Learn about the park’s distinctive rainforest flora and wildlife with a naturalist. A paradise to find sloths and monkeys. Some of the best beaches in Costa Rica. Amazing lookouts!

Today includes a half day guided nature walk in Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the natural jewels of Costa Rica. Look for the abundant wildlife including monkeys and sloths and take in the views from scenic overlooks. Cap it off with time to enjoy the gorgeous beaches and warm pacific waters.

Day 10

Private land transfer Manuel Antonio to San Jose Intl. Airport, approx., 3 - 3.5 hours drive. Airlines recommend being at the airport 3 hours before flight departure.

Download Detailed Itinerary

COST:
$7,965.00 per person for 2 pax
$5,870.00 per person for 3-4 pax
$5,220.00 per person for 5-6 pax

Single Supplement: $1,290.00

These rates are per person. The best time for this itinerary is from December to May.

Read our guest feedback about this trip:

Hi Cindi

A very good itinerary and a great trek. Excellently chosen and organised: Sun Tours did a very professional job.

I can’t speak more highly of Leo, Marco and William our driver, all unbelievably good and caring people, very professional, on time, knowledgable, proud Costa Ricans, and kind. Diego on day one of the walk and our rafting guide was excellent too.

I loved the first days walk (plenty of mud!) and the walk with Don George the most. Some of the walking through villages was fine but forest walks were brilliant. The farm visit with Don Lilo was also really interesting and endearing. This truncated Camino is a good idea. None of wd have have enjoyed doing the whole walk: too many roads. It was the beaches, forests, research area, jungle canals, rivers and national parks we loved the most. The rafting was fun - the river was low so it wasn’t the thrilling rafting like you get on the Zambezi, more of a gentle drift with some rapids, but I loved it. Another way of seeing the country. Flying to Tortuguero was excellent, a great perspective on the country, and the boat trip there was wonderful.

The only place we stayed at that lacked charm was Palenque Terrazzo lodge. It was okay, nothing more, though the pool was welcome. But all the rest were fantastic. I particularly liked Verdesana where we did yoga, and the Forest Lodge after the first days walking. Lunches along the way in quaint places owned by Marco’s friends were another highlight.

I would strongly recommend the extra night at Costa Verde: it was wonderful to relax there. An expensive place, that Queppos, but lovely. The hotel rooms were beautiful.

Walking poles were a very good idea, and so were the surprise appearances by William who popped up all over the place with water, fruit, refreshments and snacks. His bus was always very clean, cool and roomy. And he carried a lot of bags 😁 to the rooms. Even mine!

Of course the birding was superb, and Marco made sure we saw a quetzal, which was unimaginably magnificent, but he also showed us much else besides including sloths and creepy-crawleys. His energy is beyond belief, and he is very funny. A force of nature. His local knowledge makes all the difference, too. He knows everyone!

All in all, a trip we longed for for so long, and it was even better than we hoped.

I am sure the rest of the folk will have some more practical suggestions, but I am still over the moon with CR, and was very sorry to leave.

Thank you for arranging it.

Best wishes

Lloyd

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