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Arenal Volcano & the Osa Peninsula

Costa Rica Wildlife Walking Tour

6 DaysStarting at $5,595
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Overview

You expect paradise to be beautiful. But who knew it was so much fun? Costa Rica blends adventure and nature like nowhere else. A quarter of the country is a protected paradise for everything from anteaters to orchids. The best part is how easy and exciting it is. You don’t just look at the cloud forest canopy, you stroll through it on suspended bridges or glide through on a zipline. You can spot whales, explore the Osa Peninsula – named by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth”, or participate in a baby sea turtle release. And you’ll explore with expert naturalists who ensure you spot the best fauna and flora. You’ll meet the native ticos, too, and learn about local life, including visiting a village school. Your trip features nights at the foot of Arenal Volcano and on the pristine Osa Peninsula, and all activities are included. Because Costa Rica is temperate and close to the U.S., you can join us in almost any season—and it’s a great spur-of-the-moment getaway.

Classic Journeys provides unbeatable access to experiences around the globe.”
Travel + Leisure

Itinerary Highlights

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  • Discover the Osa Peninsula's unparalleled biodiversity, aptly named "the most biologically intense place on Earth" by National Geographic
  • Immerse yourself in pristine rainforests, coming face-to-face with lazy sloths, vibrant Scarlet Macaws, and boisterous howler monkeys
  • Glide through the crystal waters of Golfo Dulce, snorkeling alongside playful dolphins and majestic whales in their natural habitat
  • Marvel at the power of nature on a rainforest walk that winds behind five thundering waterfalls
  • Enter a living kaleidoscope in a butterfly garden and witness the aerial acrobatics of 26 dazzling hummingbird species
  • Traverse Arenal Volcano's lunar-like lava fields, witnessing nature's resilience as pioneer species reclaim the volcanic landscape
  • Soar through the cloud forest canopy on suspended bridges or exhilarating zip lines, your choice of treetop adventure
  • Connect with Costa Rica's heart through a heartwarming visit to a local village school
  • Indulge your senses at an organic farm, following the journey of cacao from bean to bar in a hands-on chocolate-making experience
  • Sip your way through Costa Rica's coffee heritage, exploring every step from cultivation to your cup on a working plantation
Download Full Daily Itinerary

Map

  • Starting Point:

    San Jose – 9:00 am – Lobby of Costa Rica Marriott Hacienda Belen

  • Ending Point:

    San Jose – 12:00 pm – San Jose​​​​​​​ Airport
Itinerary Map

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Walking Level

  • Daily Mileage Options: 2-8 miles

  • Route Notes:

    The terrain on this trip includes a mix of well-maintained mountain, countryside and coastal trails of compressed dirt and stone, and even crushed lava rock on the volcanic paths. The footpaths, through rainforest and cloud forest, as well as on and around Arenal Volcano, offer a selection of level, rolling and hilly terrain; with some elevation gain and loss.
To See Mileage Daily, Download Full Itinerary

Dates & Prices

The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have and the lower your price. Secure your spot with a deposit of just $500 per person at the time of reservation. Plus, you can always change your mind — there’s no fee to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887.

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Family Departure

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Internal Air

$695: This trip includes flights between San Jose and the Osa Peninsula for a supplemental cost.

Hotels

We spend years cultivating personal relationships with our hoteliers to provide you thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Here is a sampling of our favorite hotels on this tour. 

Botanika Osa Peninsula Pool, Costa Rica

Botánika Osa Peninsula

Botanika Osa Peninsula is a luxurious escape in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Enjoy upscale accommodations, gourmet farm-to-table cuisine, ocean views & access to immersive nature experiences while being surrounded by pristine rainforests.

Tabacon hot springs, Arenal, Costa Rica

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

This multi-award winning 5-star luxury resort is located at the base of Arenal Volcano. The property boasts its own thermal springs, heated by the volcano. Rooms are beautifully appointed with handicrafts and furnishings made by Costa Rican artisans.

Ti Fakara Pool, Arenal, Costa Rica

Ti-fakara Boutique Hotel

A charming retreat at the foot of Arenal Volcano, offering elegantly appointed rooms & stunning views. Unwind in the lush gardens or relax in natural hot springs. The hotel features farm-to-table dining, ensuring a memorable stay in nature’s embrace.

What’s Included

  • Meals: All breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners.
  • Hotels: Award-winning boutique properties, thoughtfully selected for their exceptional location, design, history, and regional character.
  • Tour Leader(s): Expert guides who are your well-connected local friends and provide you access to people and places you wouldn’t find on your own.
  • Supplemental Experts: Additional regional guides and specialists on select tours.
  • Transportation: All land transportation as listed in the daily itinerary, including fares for trains, ferries, and other modes of travel.
  • Privileged Access Events: One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places, and experiences arranged just for you, as noted in the daily itinerary.
  • Admissions & Entry Fees: Entry to tastings, historic sites, and other scheduled activities listed in the daily itinerary.
  • Baggage Transfers: Upon arrival, we whisk you and your bags directly to your room—no waiting, no tipping.
  • Gratuities : All gratuities at hotels, restaurants, and for baggage handling.
  • Dedicated Guest Services Coordinator: Your pre-trip concierge and tour expert, available to answer questions and ensure you’re fully ready to get the most out of your tour.
  • Equipment: Premium gear and expert guides for kayaking, rafting, glacial hiking, and snorkeling as outlined in the daily itinerary on select tours.
Not Included: Tour Leader gratuities, travel to and from your trip’s start and end points, and any meals or activities taken independently.

Why Choose Classic Journeys

Travel + Leisure has awarded Classic Journeys the #1 World’s Best Tour Operator multiple times and says, “Classic Journeys provides unbeatable access to experiences around the globe.” Here’s what that access means for you.
  • Immersive Wildlife Encounters Experience Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity up close through expertly guided walks, boat excursions, and snorkeling adventures. Our small group size (average of 10, maximum 18) and exceptional 1:5 guest-to-guide ratio on average (and not more than 1:8) ensure intimate, undisturbed wildlife encounters. Observe sloths in their natural habitat, spot vibrant Scarlet Macaws, and swim alongside sea turtles and dolphins in the Golfo Dulce.
  • Expert Local Guides Our naturalist guides are true Costa Rican ambassadors – botanists, biologists, and conservation experts with deep connections to the land. Their profound knowledge of ecosystems, flora, and fauna goes beyond facts, offering insights into evolutionary processes and highlighting crucial conservation efforts. They’ll help you spot elusive wildlife and share fascinating stories about Costa Rica’s natural and cultural heritage.
  • Exclusive Access to Natural Wonders Classic Journeys’ carefully crafted itinerary takes you to some of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse and pristine areas, including the Osa Peninsula – dubbed “the most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic. Explore hidden trails, secluded coves, and pristine beaches away from the crowds, witnessing undisturbed wildlife in their natural habitats.
  • Boutique Accommodations in Prime Locations Stay in carefully selected boutique hotels that serve as ideal base camps for exploration. Our accommodations, including one at the foot of Arenal Volcano, offer full amenities and comfort while providing unparalleled access to natural wonders. Enjoy 24/7 opportunities to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s flora and fauna, from early morning bird watching to evening walks under the stars.
  • Cultural Immersion and Local Connections Our Costa Rica adventure brings you closer to the country’s warm and welcoming people. Visit a local village school, interact with students and teachers, and learn about daily tico life. Explore a family-run agroecological farm, discovering the rich history of medicinal plants and the fascinating process of chocolate-making from bean to bar.
  • Diverse and Flexible Activities Tailor your adventure to your preferences with a range of activities. Choose between exhilarating zipline rides or serene walks along hanging bridges in the cloud forest canopy. Opt for guided nature walks or relax by the pool. Our itinerary balances active exploration with moments of relaxation, allowing you to fully appreciate Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
  • Top-Quality Equipment for Enhanced Experiences We provide high-quality snorkeling gear for your marine adventures in the Golfo Dulce, ensuring comfortable and immersive encounters with diverse marine life. Our equipment is carefully maintained and fitted to each guest, maximizing your time in the water and enhancing your wildlife viewing experiences.
  • Regenerative Travel Supporting Local Communities Classic Journeys’ commitment to regenerative travel means your visit directly benefits local communities. We partner with family-run farms, local schools, and small businesses, ensuring that tourism supports livelihoods while protecting the environment. This approach not only sustains local economies but also provides you with authentic, meaningful experiences.
  • Conservation-Focused Experiences Participate in impactful conservation efforts, such as the release of baby sea turtles (seasonal). Learn about crucial initiatives to protect endangered species and their habitats from our expert guides. Our carefully planned itineraries adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles, minimizing our environmental impact while maximizing your understanding of Costa Rica’s delicate ecosystems.
  • Seamless Multi-Destination Exploration Our Costa Rica tour expertly combines diverse ecosystems, from the volcanic landscapes of Arenal to the lush rainforests of the Osa Peninsula. Enjoy seamless transitions between destinations with internal flights, transforming travel time into scenic adventures. Our guides provide insights into changing landscapes and ecosystems, ensuring every moment of your journey is enriching and memorable

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