With over a quarter of its land protected in parks and preserves, Costa Rica is paradise for anyone who loves wildlife and outdoor adventure. Howler monkeys scamper through the trees, and keel-billed toucans color the sky against a natural backdrop of an active volcano, a magnificent lake, flowing rivers and lush greenery. Jungle hikes, mountain biking and a kayaking adventure expose you to the region's incredible biodiversity, from Los Angeles Cloud Forest to Arenal Volcano National Park and the Pacific coast. You're sure to have fun, relax and learn the true meaning of pura vida!
Day 1 Commune with nature at the tranquil eco-friendly Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel
Start the day with an eye-opening tour (and tasting!) at a coffee plantation Meander along peaceful country roads past brilliant-orange poró trees and farmers plying their trade in the Los Angeles Cloud Forest.
Day 2 View one of the world's most active volcanoes while soaking in the hot springs of a forest oasis
An interpretive walk through the cloud forest reveals an incredible variety of flora and fauna Pedal along rolling roads flanked by plantations of papaya, sugarcane and yucca to La Fortuna, nestled near the foot of rumbling Arenal Volcano.
Day 3 The ideal blend of activities makes for an unforgettable adventure
Explore the lush rain forest around beautiful Lake Arenal by bike, followed by a cruise on the water The afternoon is yours to "fly" on a zip-line, horseback ride, hike or simply relax by the pool.
Day 4 Scenic flights connect distant parts of Costa Rica
Trek across a lava field in Arenal Volcano National Park Soar above the rain forest on our private charter flight to the white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio An easy-going spin through the countryside offers stunning views of the forest, mountains and rivers around Quepos.
Days 5-6 Spot a wealth of wildlife on a naturalist-led walk in Manuel Antonio
National Park, from monkeys, lizards and iguanas to butterflies and toucans Soak up some sun or splash in the Pacific - whatever you decide, it's pura vida! A sea-kayaking excursion in the calm crystalline waters off Quepos leads to a secluded beach.
Trip Highlights
- Commune with nature at the tranquil eco-friendly Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel
- View one of the world's most active volcanoes while relaxing in the hot springs of a forest hideaway
- Explore Lake Arenal and the surrounding rain forest by boat and bike
- The chance to see a variety of wildlife (sloths, monkeys, lizards and more) in Manuel Antonio National Park
- Kayak across the bay to a beautiful remote beach
Casual Inns
Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel (1 night): This eco-conscious hotel features charming casitas, each with a breathtaking view of the cloud forest. (spa)
Hotel Mountain Paradise (2 nights): When skies are clear, relish unobstructed views of Arenal Volcano from this hilltop resort. (pool, spa)
The Falls Resort (2 nights): Cascading waterfalls, innumerable plant varieties and tropical flowers create a lush setting for this boutique hotel, just a short walk from a white-sand beach. (pool, spa)
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Day 1
- Level 1 3 Route Options Available
- Hiking 2.9, 3, 4.6
- 200 - 800 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 1 to 3 4 Route Options Available
- Walking 2.2 miles
- 0 - 100 feet elevation gain
- Biking 8, 19, 24 miles
- 450 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 1 to 3 3 Route Options Available
- Biking 10, 17, 31 miles
- 300 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Levels 1 to 2 3 Route Options Available
- Hiking 2, 2.2, 3 miles
- 100 - 250 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Level 1 2 Route Options Available
- Hiking 2, 3.5 miles
- 50 - 300 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Kayaking 2 hours
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests
and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the
next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours.
So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly
what and how much you want to do.| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 mile | 2-5 miles |
| Level 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| Level 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| Level 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| Level 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
2012 Dates & Pricing*
CLASSIC TRIPS
SINGLES+SOLOS TRIPS
*Prices may change. Once you book your trip, your price is guaranteed.
Guest Trip Reviews
First let me say how impressed I am with your organization. Pulling all of this off in the United States, let alone Costa Rica, would have been a major feat --- the organization, thought, and planning that went into this trip were incredible. Thank you!- Branford, CT
This was the most well organized, truly seamless vacation experience I have ever had. Our leaders were absolutely incredible. They were knowledgeable, helpful, enthusiastic and went FAR beyond the call of duty on their jobs. Above all, their attitudes and the fact that they were truly having FUN meant everything in terms of maintaining the group dynamics to ensure that everyone had a pleasurable experience.- Alexandria, VA
I loved the variety of activity on this trip. Backroads is the best travel company. I have a hard time traveling with any other company because of the quality of your trips.- Green Valley, AZ
Our leaders did an awesome job! The drivers were wonderful. It was a great trip. I felt like I made 18 new friends. The physical activity was just right.- Jonesville, WI
Backroads always spoils us rotten. You have set the standard so high that other companies can't compare to your quality. I am hooked on Backroads!- Green Valley, AZ