Explore and Escape in Arenal and Tamarindo plus San Jose

Day 1 Arrive in San Jose

Hotel Shuttle Transfer

Welcome to Costa Rica; we have selected conveniently located hotels so you can check in and rest before we pick you up to take you to beautiful Arenal tomorrow! Your hotel offers a quick and convenient shuttle pickup. After your hotel is confirmed, contact the hotel with your details to arrange the pickup. If you need assistance, we are here to help!

Day 2 in Arenal

Private Transfer to Arenal

This morning, our professional driver will pick you up at your hotel to transport you to beautiful La Fortuna, home to the breathtaking Arenal Volcano. The journey will take approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. We would recommend scheduling the transfer for later in the morning so you can sleep in, enjoy breakfast, and arrive closer to your hotel's check-in time, but if you are an early bird and want to get to Arenal as soon as possible, let us know, and we can schedule the pickup earlier. During the drive, your driver will gladly accommodate any stops for scenic views, restroom breaks, or meals along the way. The remainder of the day is yours to spend at leisure.

Day 3 in Arenal

Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall with Lunch

Your day begins with breakfast at the hotel.

9:00 AM: Our tour guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you to the Arenal Volcano to hike the well-known El Silencio Trail. As we explore the area, our guide will provide in-depth information about the volcano’s history, geology, and the unique biodiversity of the wildlife that thrives in the region.

Following the hike, we’ll take you to a local restaurant for lunch, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Costa Rican meal, included as part of your tour.

Around 1:00 PM, we’ll visit the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, where you will have the opportunity to marvel at the majestic cascade into a crystal-clear pool below. You’ll have the chance to swim, take photos, or simply relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere before we return to the hotel.

Day 4 in Arenal

Free Day

Today is free for you to enjoy the Arenal area at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind and take in the breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, explore the charming town of La Fortuna for shopping, coffee and lunch, or strolling the squares and historic buildings, or simply relax in the comfort of your accommodation, the day is yours to spend as you wish.

For those interested in discovering more of what this beautiful region has to offer, we invite you to explore a variety of optional activities! You can find them available during the booking process and add ones according to your own interests or speak to the local support team for recommendations and assistance with booking once in Arenal.

Day 5 in Arenal & Tamarindo Beach

Transfer to Tamarindo & Hanging Bridges Tour

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check out. At approximately 9:00 AM you will continue your journey to tranquil Tamarindo Beach in Guanacaste. Before departing from La Fortuna, our driver will stop at the famous Arenal hanging bridges. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore with a guide through the rainforest on a series of suspension bridges and well-worn paths, offering a unique perspective of the lush canopy. This immersive experience will last approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

After your walk along the hanging bridges, you will continue your journey to Tamarindo, the next stop on your vacation. The scenic drive around Arenal Lake takes approximately four hours, offering breathtaking views along the way. Your driver can help you find a suitable stop for lunch, photo opportunities, or a restroom break if needed. Upon arrival in Tamarindo, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, unwinding and relaxing. Tamarindo is well-known for its beaches, surf culture, and nightlife, all within walking distance of your hotel. You may want to walk down to the beach to catch one of the captivating sunsets Tamarindo is known for and enjoy dinner in one of the many local restaurants tonight!

Day 6 in Tamarindo

Free Day (We suggest: Afternoon Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling with Lunch)

Today is your first full day in lovely Tamarindo, and you deserve to spend it as you wish! This is your time to relax, but we suggest adding a fantastic afternoon cruise with snorkeling and lunch, enjoying the warm, crystal waters of the Pacific Ocean! Details about the cruise (if you choose to book it) are as follows:

Meet at 1 P.M. at the Chiringuito restaurant parking lot (an easy-to-find starting point for your adventure). From there, set sail on a breathtaking catamaran adventure gliding along Costa Rica’s coast, passing some of Guanacaste’s exotic bays, white sand beaches, and tropical jungles; along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife sightings, including playful dolphins, graceful sea turtles, flying fish, and even the chance to witness a breaching whale! Anchor for a break to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, discover vibrant marine life beneath the surface, and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the outstanding crew, followed by refreshing tropical drinks from the open bar. As the sun begins to set, illuminating the remaining clouds in the sky, set sail back towards shore, listening to the gentle waves slide along the giant catamaran.

Pro Tip: You can book the cruise while making your initial booking or add it later with the assistance of our dedicated local support staff. Tripmasters makes customizing your vacation easy every step of the way!

Day 7 in Tamarindo

Free Day in Tamarindo

Today is an entirely free day! After the adventure you've had, the break is well-deserved. Tamarindo Beach is a vibrant coastal town renowned for its world-class surfing and water sports, stunning pristine white-sand beaches, shopping and restaurants, and thriving saltwater estuary with all types of wildlife! Nearby Las Baulas National Park is also an excellent option to explore! Tamarindo truly embodies the essence of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and adventure.

We know you will fall in love with this tropical paradise no matter what you decide to do with your free day, whether that be catching waves, exploring the national park, shopping, or merely lying on the beach with a good book!

Day 8 Farewell Costa Rica

Private Departure Transfer

As your unforgettable journey with us comes to a close, your private driver will pick you up directly from your hotel and take you to the airport. The drive will take approximately 1.5 hours, offering a scenic route to reflect on the incredible memories and new friends you've made throughout your stay, enjoying La Pura Vida! that only Costa Rica can offer!

Since this is a private transfer, your pick-up time will be scheduled based on your flight departure, ensuring a smooth, stress-free journey and on-time arrival at the airport. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Costa Rica soon!