Tauck: Jungles & Rainforests

Arrive in San José and enjoy a seamless private transfer from Juan Santamaria International Airport to the InterContinental Costa Rica, ideally situated in the heart of the capital. Settle into your Deluxe Room before gathering with fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel.

Leave San José behind this morning and journey toward Tortuguero National Park, a pristine rainforest sanctuary celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity. En route, visit the Toucan Rescue Center to learn about local conservation efforts and meet some of the wildlife in its care, before continuing to an artisan chocolatier for a hands-on introduction to the transformation of cacao into chocolate, followed by a tasting and lunch. Later, take a scenic flight into the rainforest and arrive at Aninga Lodge, your secluded retreat near the park, where winding waterways, lush forest and abundant wildlife create an immersive introduction to Costa Rica's wild side. Enjoy dinner at the lodge this evening.

Wake to the sounds of the rainforest before setting out by boat along Tortuguero's winding canals, accompanied by a local guide and surrounded by an extraordinary variety of birdlife and wildlife. Return to the lodge for lunch and time at leisure before venturing to the village of Tortuguero, where you'll discover the many traditional uses of the coconut during a local demonstration. An optional canal cruise offers another opportunity to explore the park, while those traveling between July and August can venture to the beach after dark to observe nesting green sea turtles along one of the world's most important nesting grounds. Return to Aninga Lodge for dinner.

Travel by boat through Tortuguero's waterways before continuing inland toward the lush Sarapiquí region, where you'll take to the river for an exhilarating Class I–III rafting adventure through jungle-lined scenery, with opportunities to spot sloths, monkeys, iguanas and other wildlife along the banks. Continue to a local pineapple farm for a guided visit and tasting before making your way to Arenal and Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa. Settle into the tranquil surroundings and spend the evening immersed in the resort's renowned thermal waters before dinner.

Experience Costa Rica's volcanic landscape from above this morning with a thrilling zip-line adventure through the rainforest canopy at Sky Trek Adventure Park, offering sweeping views toward Arenal Volcano. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can instead take a guided nature walk through the surrounding forest. Return to Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa for an afternoon at leisure, with time to enjoy its naturally heated waters and peaceful setting before dinner.

Journey across Costa Rica's lush interior today, traveling from the volcanic landscapes of Arenal toward the Pacific coast. Stop for lunch along the way before continuing to Guanacaste and El Mangroove, an elegant oceanfront retreat set amid tropical surroundings. Spend the remainder of the day settling into the relaxed rhythm of the coast, with time to enjoy the resort and its beautiful seaside setting.

Enjoy a leisurely day along Costa Rica's Pacific coast, with the freedom to relax at El Mangroove or take to the water on an included dolphin-spotting and snorkeling cruise. Discover the marine life and coastal scenery before returning to the hotel for lunch and an afternoon at leisure. This evening, gather for a farewell reception and dinner accompanied by the distinctive sounds of a traditional Costa Rican marimba band, bringing your journey to a memorable close.

Your Costa Rican journey comes to a close today. Enjoy a final morning at El Mangroove before a transfer takes you to Liberia International Airport for your flight home.