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6 Day Wildlife Encounter

Costa Rica 6 Days/5 Nights

6 DaysStarting at $5,895
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Overview

Costa Rica is a place where nature takes center stage — where rainforests pulse with life, volcanoes shape the land, and coastlines shelter some of the richest ecosystems on Earth. This thoughtfully curated walking journey invites you to experience the country at ground level, guided by expert local naturalists who open a window into Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity and way of life. Each day blends immersive walks, wildlife encounters, and meaningful cultural moments, all at a pace that allows you to slow down and truly observe. You explore protected forests, volcanic landscapes, rivers, and coastal habitats while learning how conservation and community shape daily life in this remarkable country. With small groups, well-chosen accommodations, and deeply knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a richer, more connected way to discover Costa Rica.

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

Itinerary Highlights

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  • Walk Through Some of the Most Biodiverse Landscapes on Earth: Explore rainforests, river corridors, volcanic foothills, and coastal ecosystems that support an astonishing variety of plant and animal life — all protected within Costa Rica’s renowned national parks and reserves.
  • Expert Naturalist Guides Bring the Jungle to Life: Walk alongside passionate Costa Rican guides trained in ecology and wildlife interpretation. Their insight helps you spot sloths, monkeys, tropical birds, and countless smaller species while understanding how each ecosystem fits together.
  • Experience the Arenal Volcano Region: Discover landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, where lush forests, lava-formed terrain, and thermal waters create a dramatic natural setting. Walks in this region reveal how life flourishes even in dynamic environments.
  • Explore by Land and Water: Enjoy a mix of forest walks and scenic boat excursions that offer new perspectives on Costa Rica’s wildlife. Coastal and river explorations provide opportunities to spot dolphins, seabirds, and marine life in their natural habitat.
  • Connect with Local Communities: Gain insight into Costa Rican culture through visits that highlight daily life, education, and conservation efforts. These moments deepen your understanding of the people who call this biodiverse country home.
  • Thoughtfully Paced for Immersion: Walks are designed for discovery rather than distance, with time built in for wildlife observation, photography, and quiet moments in nature.
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

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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 an estimated supplemental cost. The final fare is subject to change until ticketed.

Hotels

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.

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.
  • Unmatched Local Guides: Our Costa Rica journeys are led by exceptional local naturalist guides whose deep regional knowledge transforms each walk into a story of place, ecology, and culture.
  • Curated Walks Chosen for What You’ll See, Not Just Where You’ll Go: Routes are carefully selected for wildlife activity, scenic variety, and meaningful encounters — often along trails and areas travelers wouldn’t find on their own.
  • Small Groups for Better Wildlife Viewing: Traveling in a small group allows for quieter walks, more flexibility, and a greater chance to observe wildlife without disruption.
  • Perfectly Sited Accommodations: Stay in distinctive lodges and boutique properties chosen for their location, comfort, and proximity to nature — where wildlife sightings can happen just outside your room.
  • A Seamless Blend of Activity and Comfort: Walks are balanced with restorative downtime, excellent meals, and welcoming accommodations, creating a journey that feels both adventurous and deeply relaxing.
  • A Travel Style Rooted in Connection: Classic Journeys focuses on meaningful access — to landscapes, people, and experiences — offering a Costa Rica tour that feels personal, thoughtful, and genuinely immersive.

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