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Savor the flavors of Costa Rica: fresh seafood, locally roasted coffee, fresh pineapple plus cooking & cocktail classes

from US $ 13900 pp

Costa Rica Map

Tour Highlights

Afro Caribbean Cooking Class

Pineapple Plantation

Volcano & Hot Springs

Wildlife Rescue

Beachlife

about this tour

about this tour

This tour follows the rhythms of Costa Rica through food, coastline, and community. In San José, days begin at an even pace, with time to explore the capital independently before meeting a private guide for the journey ahead. Travel toward the southern Caribbean, passing through Limón en route to Puerto Viejo, where Afro Caribbean traditions influence daily language, music, and cooking. A hands on class highlights regional techniques and ingredients passed through generations. Along the shore, the sea shapes local routines with calm beaches, tropical growth, and warm currents forming part of the setting. A boat trip through Cahuita National Park moves across quiet water toward Punta Cahuita. Just beyond the shoreline, coral reefs bring color and steady movement below the surface, where marine life thrives in clear, shallow seas. Farmland returns inland near Arenal, where a working pineapple farm shows how crop production can align with sustainable practices. In the presence of the volcano, wildlife rescue efforts and volcanic trails underscore the balance of the natural world. Hot springs provide a brief pause surrounded by geothermal activity. A visit to a campesino farm offers insight into rural life and local agriculture rooted in small scale tradition. The final stage of the tour moves through the Pacific lowlands to Guanacaste and the Tamarindo coast, where the open sky and sea frame the edge of the land. Each stop shows how place, flavor, and community shape Costa Rica.

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Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast offers a distinct cultural and culinary experience. In the warm home of an Afro-Caribbean family, you’ll prepare dishes using coconut, plantain, hot pepper, and chocolate, ingredients that define the local kitchen. Alongside your guide and hosts, you'll explore traditional recipes, including vegetarian and vegan options. It’s a chance to cook, connect, share stories, and enjoy the flavors you’ve helped bring to life. Don’t forget a notepad, you’ll want to recreate these dishes back home.

  • 1

    Arrival in San Jose

    Once you've touched down in San Jose, you'll be warmly welcomed at the airport for private transfer to your hotel. Having settled in, you’ll be able to spend some time with our local specialist who is always happy to hear about your travel plans in Costa Rica and beyond - now’s the time to make the most of their many years of local know-how and ask questions until your heart’s content! The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore. Costa Rica is internationally renowned for it's excellent coffee. Coffee production transformed the economy, and contributed to the modernization of Costa Rica. The revenue from coffee also funded the first railroads linking the country to the Atlantic Coast in 1890 and the construction of the Grand National Theater in San José’s center. San Jose, located at about 3,770ft. (1,253 m.) above sea level, is a metropolitan city and sits in a high valley between green volcanic mountains.

    Once you've touched down in San Jose, you'll be warmly welcomed at the airport for private transfer to your hotel. Having settled in, you’ll be able to spend some time…
  • 2

    Day at Leisure in San Jose

    Enjoy a leisurely day in San Jose, discovering its rich cultural heritage at iconic sites such as the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. Stroll through bustling markets like Central Market, where you can sample local delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs. Embrace the city's energy as you explore its eclectic neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and character. Whether savoring authentic Costa Rican cuisine at a traditional soda or simply people-watching in a quaint café, San Jose promises a memorable experience filled with exploration and discovery.

    Enjoy a leisurely day in San Jose, discovering its rich cultural heritage at iconic sites such as the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. Stroll through bustling markets like…
  • 3

    Road trip to Southern Caribbean

    Today your road trip through Costa Rica begins. Your guide/chauffeur will meet you at your hotel and accompany you for the remainder of your tour. This morning’s drive to the Southern Caribbean, a region known for its lush jungles and serene beaches, will take approximately 5 hours. Following Route 32, which connects the Central Valley to Limón, Costa Rica’s largest port city, you will have the opportunity to sample traditional Caribbean treats like Pan Bon and Cocadas from local vendors along the way to Puerto Viejo. This little Creole town is a fascinating melting pot of Afro-Caribbean, BriBri Indian, Tico and Creole cultures as well as a significant European population made up of travelers who came to Puerto Viejo, fell in love with the town and never left. This mix of cultures gives the town a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels at home. Puerto Viejo is an ideal location for exploring and relaxation and gives you the opportunity to get to know a more off the beaten path destination and the beautiful yet less developed Caribbean coast and jungle of Costa Rica. Spend the late afternoon exploring the town’s boutique shops, which feature handmade crafts and local artwork. Treat yourself to a scoop of tropical fruit ice cream while enjoying the laid-back rhythm of life by the shore. In the evening, enjoy a meal at one of the town’s diverse restaurants, many offering creative European-inspired dishes. As night falls, the Caribbean vibe comes alive with the sounds of Calypso and Reggae filling the lively bars.

    Today your road trip through Costa Rica begins. Your guide/chauffeur will meet you at your hotel and accompany you for the remainder of your tour. This morning’s drive to the…
  • 4

    Caribbean Beaches & Afro-Caribbean Cooking Class

    Today there will be time to enjoy the beautiful Caribbean beaches, with their warm, white-sand and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. You will set off for a cooking class at either 10am or 5pm, depending on availability. Costa Rica’s Caribbean region has a distinct character, offering a unique blend of culture and flavors. This area is known for its delicious cuisine, where ingredients like coconut, plantain, hot pepper, and chocolate play a key role in traditional dishes. Today, you’ll have the chance to prepare and enjoy these flavors firsthand. Your experience takes place in the home of a local Afro-Caribbean family, where, alongside your guide, you’ll learn cooking techniques and recipes that have been passed down through generations. Whether your class takes place around midday or in the evening, you’ll gain insight into the preparation of both classic and plant-based dishes, making for a flavorful and memorable part of your journey.

    Today there will be time to enjoy the beautiful Caribbean beaches, with their warm, white-sand and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. You will set off for a cooking class at either 10am…
  • 5

    Cahuita Boating & Nature Hike

    In the morning you head out on a 40-minute journey to the pristine Cahuita National Marine & Nature Park. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, raccoons, snakes and even wild cats. At the Caribean town of Cahuita, you'll begin today's excursion with a relaxing boat trip along the scenic Caribbean Coast of the Cahuita National Park to the colorful coral reef off the coast of Punta Cahuita. Depending on the weather, there may be an option to snorkel in the transparent waters alongside the pristine reef, where you'll see hundreds of dazzling, multi-colored fish. On the beach, there will be a fresh fruit snack before beginning the easy-going nature trail in the National Park. Passing beautiful coral sand beaches, bays with deep blue water and a tropical rainforest with swaying palms, during the hike you'll encounter a magnificent range of flora and fauna and can always stop for a refreshing swim in the azure Caribbean waters. Throughout the hike your local, expert nature guide will point out the different flora and fauna of the area as well as provide an interesting insight to the area's Afro-Caribbean traditions. To bring this fantastic morning to an end you will sit down to enjoy a typical Afro-Caribbean lunch with of course includes the local rice and beans with coconut sauce, in the colorful village of Cahuita, before heading back to Puerto Viejo.

    NOTE: In case of bad weather or bad visibility, this tour may be modified to a visit to the Bribri indigenous, where you’ll learn about the local culture, use of medicinal plants as well as the importance of cacao to them.

    In the morning you head out on a 40-minute journey to the pristine Cahuita National Marine & Nature Park. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife such…
  • 6

    Pineapple Farm & Arenal Volcano

    This morning you will leave Costa Rica's Caribbean and continue your journey to the Central Highlands to the Arenal Volcano. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of agricultural landscapes and pineapple plantations. There will be a stop at a local organic pineapple farm where you will learn about the history and cultivation of pineapple. You will of course also try this delicious fresh pineapple. As you approach the town of La Fortuna, one of the first things you'll see is the Arenal Volcano. Although it is no longer spewing out hot lava your first sighting of the sleeping giant will always be the most memorable as it rises up high above the surrounding landscape. Upon your arrival at the foot of the Arenal volcano and having settled in to your accommodation, the rest of the day is at leisure.

    This morning you will leave Costa Rica's Caribbean and continue your journey to the Central Highlands to the Arenal Volcano. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of agricultural…
  • 7

    Wildlife Rescue Center & Volcano Walk with Hot Springs

    After breakfast, take a 50-minute drive through the Costa Rican countryside to the Wildlife Rescue Institute in Javillos, where you'll meet the local staff and volunteers. During the educational tour, you'll learn about the institute’s efforts to rehabilitate injured animals and return them to the wild. The staff will share the stories of the rescued animals and explain the challenges of conservation, while also highlighting the institute’s reliance on volunteers and donations to operate, as it receives no government funding. Next is the Sloth Tour, where you'll see these iconic creatures in their natural habitat. Sloths, beloved symbols of Costa Rica’s rainforests, offer insights into evolution and sustainability. Spotting these fascinating animals as they lounge among the treetops is a memorable experience. Afterward, you'll explore the Arenal Reserve, starting with a 1.5-hour trek around the Arenal Volcano. Once one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Arenal now rests, but its dramatic lava fields and rich rainforest remain. Along the hike, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the volcano and Arenal Lake, while spotting local wildlife such as tropical birds and monkeys. To end the day, unwind in the thermal hot springs at The Springs Hotel and Spa. Surrounded by lush gardens and views of the volcano, you’ll relax in the warm, mineral-rich pools before enjoying a delicious dinner.

    After breakfast, take a 50-minute drive through the Costa Rican countryside to the Wildlife Rescue Institute in Javillos, where you'll meet the local staff and volunteers. During the educational tour,…
  • 8

    Agua Azul - Campesino Farm

    This morning you will visit a local family owned Agro-ecological Farm in the small town of Agua Azul. Upon arrival you will be welcomed by the family and receive an informative explanation of the Farm's main objectives, including promoting the sustainable use of natural resources and preserving Costa Rican Traditions. Learn how to milk the cows. Taste homemade liquor, chocolate, and fresh milk while you observe the alambique, the artisanal liquor distillation process. Participate in the sugar cane extraction to obtain a delicious juice and then try it alone, with spearmint, liquor, or other of the farm's organic products. Visit a small archaeological ranch where you can observe some ancient indigenous pieces and put them to work in the artisanal process of making chocolate. Walk through and admire the orchid and medicinal plant gardens. After the tour, enjoy farm-fresh favourites like coffee, cheese, tortillas, hash, and others. Without a doubt, this is an experience filled with true Costa Rican culture, customs, delicacies and traditions that you will never forget.

    This morning you will visit a local family owned Agro-ecological Farm in the small town of Agua Azul. Upon arrival you will be welcomed by the family and receive an…
  • 9

    Pacific Lowlands - Guanacaste

    This morning, you’ll leave the lush landscapes of Arenal and make your way toward the sun-kissed province of Guanacaste. Along the way, pause at a macadamia farm, where you can enjoy picturesque views of Lake Arenal, its calm waters framed by rolling hills. This stop offers not only a chance to stretch your legs but also to learn about the cultivation of macadamias, a crop that thrives in Costa Rica’s diverse climates. As you continue your journey, the scenery gradually transforms, revealing the distinctive character of Guanacaste. Known as Costa Rica’s “Gold Coast,” this region is celebrated for its dry tropical forests, expansive plains, and pristine Pacific beaches. The province is steeped in a heritage shaped by agriculture, ranching, and a deep connection to nature, giving it a unique identity within Costa Rica. Guanacaste is also home to an array of national parks and protected areas, making it a sanctuary for wildlife. Its landscapes range from volcanic ridges to coastal lowlands, offering habitats for species such as howler monkeys, iguanas, and countless birds. Whether you’re gazing at the distant mountains or catching glimpses of rural villages along the way, the drive itself is an opportunity to appreciate the rich variety of Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

    This morning, you’ll leave the lush landscapes of Arenal and make your way toward the sun-kissed province of Guanacaste. Along the way, pause at a macadamia farm, where you can…
  • 10

    Leisure Day - Local Activities

    Today is yours to enjoy as you wish, whether you prefer to relax at the ranch or take part in one of the optional activities available. You might choose a boat trip along the Tempisque River, a jeep safari through the wetlands, or a guided horseback ride through scenic trails. If you’re interested in learning more about local traditions, a farm visit offers insight into rural life, while a trip to Palo Verde National Park provides a chance to see diverse wildlife. For those keen on adventure, exploring the Barra Honda Caves reveals an impressive underground landscape. If you have something else in mind, your guide and transport are available to help you discover more of the surrounding area.

    Today is yours to enjoy as you wish, whether you prefer to relax at the ranch or take part in one of the optional activities available. You might choose a…
  • 11

    Pacific Coast - Tamarindo

    Today, you’ll bid farewell to the Province of Guanacaste and journey toward the Pacific beaches of Tamarindo. Known for its stunning coastline, Tamarindo offers some of the finest beaches on Costa Rica's Pacific shore. Its expansive, golden sands stretch endlessly, meeting the gentle waves that make this destination a favorite for surfers and sunseekers alike. To the north, the Matapalo River winds its way through the Tamarindo Wildlife Reserve, creating a natural boundary with the neighboring Playa Grande. Tamarindo is a lively coastal town that offers the perfect setting to unwind, bask in the sun, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific horizon. Renowned for its range of activities, Tamarindo is a hub for surfing, sportfishing, diving, and leisurely afternoons by the sea. From October to May, the beaches become a nesting ground for leatherback turtles, providing an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events.

    Today, you’ll bid farewell to the Province of Guanacaste and journey toward the Pacific beaches of Tamarindo. Known for its stunning coastline, Tamarindo offers some of the finest beaches on…
  • 12

    Tamarindo Beach Hopping

    Spend the day exploring some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, with your guide leading the way on a tour filled with sun, sea, and stunning coastal views. Start at Flamingo Beach, where soft white sand and clear waters make for a picture-perfect stop. This Blue Flag Ecological Beach is ideal for a morning stroll or a refreshing dip. Continue past Playa Grande, a well-known surf spot, before arriving in Tamarindo, a lively seaside town where you can take a break and enjoy lunch with a view of the ocean (not included). In the afternoon, visit Conchal Beach, famous for its shimmering shoreline made up of tiny crushed shells and its excellent snorkeling opportunities. After a full day of beach-hopping, unwind with a cocktail in hand as you take in Tamarindo’s breathtaking sunset, the perfect way to end your day.

    Spend the day exploring some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, with your guide leading the way on a tour filled with sun, sea, and stunning coastal views.…
  • 13

    Morning at Leisure - Afternoon Playa Avellanas

    This morning is free for you to relax on at the beach, stroll through the beach town or explore more of the natural beauty around Tamarindo. One of our favorite optional excursions (not included) is to go on a gentle horseback ride through the dry-tropical forest of the Guanacaste lowlands where you'll visit number of beautiful viewpoints and secluded beaches. In the afternoon, you will be collected from your hotel to go to Playa Avellanas. the spot where people gather for great surf, amazing sunsets and spectacular food. Enjoy watching the surfers, or head out on a board yourself. try Lola's, the tropical beachfront club and restaurant. Here you could enjoy a seafood ceviche' (fresh fish seasoned and soaked in lemon juice) and great tropical cocktails while the sun goes down (not included). The perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the Pura Vida.

    This morning is free for you to relax on at the beach, stroll through the beach town or explore more of the natural beauty around Tamarindo. One of our favorite…
  • 14

    Departure Day

    Enjoy your last views over the Pacific. And then it's time to say goodbye to this tropical country with its wide diversity in ecosystems and natural beauty. You will be taken to Liberia International Airport (LIR) where you will board your flight back home. We wish you a pleasant flight and great memories of Costa Rica.

    Note: Alternatively you could extend your vacation with a trip to the beautiful Osa Peninsula, located on the far Southern Pacific.

    Enjoy your last views over the Pacific. And then it's time to say goodbye to this tropical country with its wide diversity in ecosystems and natural beauty. You will be…

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FAQs

1. What is the Afro-Caribbean cooking class in Puerto Viejo like?

You spend a few hours cooking with a local host, using ingredients common in Afro-Caribbean homes such as coconut, peppers, and fresh herbs. You help with chopping, seasoning, and stirring while your host explains the steps and the background of each dish. At the end, you all sit down and eat the meal you’ve prepared together.

2. What does a day in Cahuita National Park look like?

You take a boat along the coast toward Punta Cahuita, with time to look into the clear, shallow water near the reef. Once you arrive, you can walk an easy trail by the beach and spend time swimming or resting on the sand. The day is mainly about being on the water and near the reef in a simple, relaxed way.

3. What activities are included at the pineapple farm near Arenal?

At the farm you walk through the pineapple fields and see plants at different stages of growth. Your guide explains how pineapples are planted, cared for, and harvested, and how the farm tries to look after the soil and water. You usually finish by tasting fresh pineapple cut straight from the field.

4. How are the volcano, wildlife rescue center, and hot springs linked on this tour?

Around Arenal you visit them in one combined day. You start with short walks on paths with views of the volcano and nearby forest. Then you stop at a wildlife rescue center, where staff explain how they care for injured animals. Later you go to natural hot springs and spend time relaxing in the warm pools before heading back.

5. What food and beach time do we get in Tamarindo and Guanacaste?

On the Pacific coast you eat simple, fresh dishes such as grilled fish, rice and beans, salads, and local fruit juices in small restaurants and beach spots. Between meals there is plenty of time to walk along the sand, swim, or just sit and look at the ocean. These days are built around the sea and easygoing local food.

Our in-country expert

Unlock the secrets of Costa Rica with our local expert Cristina, for an unforgettable adventure. Young yet highly experienced, Cristina is a trusted advisor, not just another tour guide. Her infectious passion fuels her expertise, extending beyond typical tourist routes. Explore ancient history, delve into local culture, and discover unique locations known only to locals....
Cristina
Cristina

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