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San Jose: Exploring The Rainforest - 7 Nights

Approximate Drive Times
San José Airport to Hotel Presidente: 30 minutes
Hotel Presidente to Arenal Springs/Lomas de Volcan (or similar): 4.5 hours
Arenal Springs/Lomas de Volcan to Parador Resort & Spa/Villas Lirio (or similar): 5 hours
Parador Resort & Spa/Villas Lirio to Hotel Presidente: 4 hours

Day 1: Upon arrival, you will be met by a Swiss Travel Costa Rica Representative. Transfer to your San José hotel (Presidente Hotel or similar) for a one-night stay.

Day 2: Early in the morning, a car rental representative will deliver your 4x4 car, so you can explore Costa Rica on your own. In the morning, we recommend that you drive through the northern lowlands to the Arenal Volcano area. Spend the next two nights in this spectacular area Arenal Springs or Lomas de Volcan (or similar).

Day 3: Consider a visit to the Arenal Reserve and the Sky Tram & Sky Trek. Ascend to the top of the mountain by an aerial tram and descend on a canopy tour, cascading from mountain to mountain. If you prefer a more relaxed tour, visit the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Boat tours are offered on the Rio Frio, where you will discover different species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Day 4: Drive to the Central Pacific Coast to Manuel Antonio National Park with its magnificent beaches, passing through various climates and elevations. Enjoy three nights at Parador Resort & Spa or Villas Lirio (or similar) in Manuel Antonio.

Day 5 & 6: Days at leisure. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park, with its expansive white sand beaches backed by an evergreen forest. Enjoy adventure options such as kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, diving, and canopy tours.

Day 7: Drive to the San José Central Valley and visit several national parks along the way. The Carara National Park is a great place to view Costa Rica's wildlife. Early morning is often the best time to see the wealth of scarlet macaws among the mangroves or the crocodiles that rest in the Tárcoles River. Also on your way is Poás Volcano National Park, which has one of the world's largest accessible volcanic craters. Finally, consider a visit to the famous artisan town of Sarchí. Overnight at your San José hotel. Car rental returns are in the evening.

Day 8: Transfer to San José International Airport (SJO) for your departure.

Included in Tour:

  • Regular transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) to San José.
  • Two (2) night accommodations at Presidente (or similar), San José.
    (One night at the beginning and one night at the end of the itinerary)
  • Six (6) days rental of a four-wheel-drive SUV Compact manual car (Daihatsu Bego or similar).
    Includes: Free mileage.
    Pick up place: San José hotel on day 2 at mid-morning.
    Drop off place: San José hotel on day 7 at evening.
  • Two (2) night accommodations at Arenal Springs Hotel or Lomas de Volcan (or similar) Arenal Volcano.
  • Three (3) night accommodations at Parador Resort Hotel or Villas Lirio (or similar) Manuel Antonio.
  • Regular transfer from San José to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).
  • Seven breakfasts.
  • Sales taxes.

Please note: Guarantee deposit for car rental, daily insurance, and fuel is not included in the package price. Entrance fees to National Parks are not included. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age and have their valid driver's license, passport, and credit card for car rental. Depositsare held on the customer's personal international credit card and range from $800-$1500, however a flat deposit of $100 is held when Full Coverage Insurance is purchased. Mandatory Insurance alone with higher deposit: $18 per day. Additional Insurance for Full Coverage ($100 deposit only): $15 per day in addition to the $18. Fuel not included. Unlimited mileage included. GPS and/or child seats available (additional charge) if requested in advance. One additional driver free of charge besides the main driver of the vehicle. Pricing in USD and subject to change. Prices/tours subject to change. . This tour is not available December 18, 2018-January 8, 2019. Excursions offered by Swiss Travel Costa Rica. Some excursions require physical activity. Please consider the nature of the excursion to ensure it is appropriate for your age and physical condition.