7 Days: San Jose, Pacuare River & Arenal Volcano

Tour overview:

SITA takes you on a 7-day trip that is full of adventure and adrenaline. Spend two nights at the Pacuare Lodge, a unique jungle oasis nestled in a beautiful setting. During this stay, you can escape from the distractions of technology and relax in the rhythms and romance of the rainforest. Your adventures include a Canopy tour via Zip Line through the rainforest, an incredible rafting journey on the scenic Pacuare River and time to explore the Arenal Volcano region.

Day 1 - Arrive San Jose

Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica. You are welcomed and transferred to the hotel.

Day 2 - San Jose – Pacuare River

Today you will travel through dense jungle and along the banks of the Pacuare River, where you will climb into a hanging gondola to cross the water – quite an adventure! There is just a 300 meters hike to the Pacuare Lodge. Here you will find a unique jungle oasis nestled in a most remarkable setting. Without the distractions of technology, guests connect more fully to the rhythms and romance of the rain forest. The candlelit rooms make for a cosy, intimate guest experience. (BLD)

Day 3 - Pacuare River

Awaken this morning to the harmonious melody created by the sounds of the river and the sweet songs of tropical birds. This morning enjoy the Canopy Tour (Zip Lines). This is an experience as no other! You will face the exotic beauty of the rainforest head on, feeling the adrenaline of dramatic views, rappelling down towering trees and sliding along cables from tree to tree, as you descend the jungle-cloaked mountain toward the Pacuare Lodge for a final thrilling rappel that leaves you just steps away from our main lodge!

The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the scenic beauty and natural surroundings of the Pacuare River. (BLD)

Day 4 - Pacuare River – Arenal Volcano

Today is full of adventure and adrenaline. A professional guide and the right equipment will be waiting at the river, and after some safety instructions, you will start on this incredible rafting journey. In the water, you will experience the exhilaration of riding the waves on this wild and scenic river, which passes through picturesque canyons where crystal-clear waterfalls plummet down into the rapidly coursing river below. You may stop to explore side streams that lead to striking waterfalls and pools with a natural waterslide that tempt you to take a dip. A picnic lunch will be served along the river, and when you reach the end, you can change into dry clothes and head to the drop-off point to continue via a land transfer towards the northern lowlands. Along this route you will pass through different towns such as Puerto Viejo (Sarapiqui), San Miguel, Venecia and Aguas Zarcas. In addition, along the way you will enjoy the beautiful scenery, which includes amazing views of the mountains and one of the major sources of revenue in the area: the agriculture. Depending on the season, you will observe pineapple, banana and/or sugar cane crops. Arrive in La Fortuna Village late in the afternoon, where the mighty Arenal Volcano will welcome you with its impressive perfect conical shape. Check in to the Nayara Springs, where you will be staying the next three nights. (BL)

Day 5 - Arenal Volcano

These two days are at your leisure to explore the area. We highly recommend the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park (extra cost) that protects an active perfect cone volcano with constant moderate explosions accompanied by roar, gases and ash emissions that raise high in the air. (B)

Day 6 - Arenal Volcano

These two days are at your leisure to explore the area. We highly recommend the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park (extra cost) that protects an active perfect cone volcano with constant moderate explosions accompanied by roar, gases and ash emissions that raise high in the air. (B)

Day 7 - Arenal Volcano – SJO International Airport

Your amazing Costa Rica experience ends today. You will be transferred to Juan Santamaria Int’l Airport (SJO) for your departure flight back home (3 hours’ drive). (B)