Costa Rica Highlands to Coast Multi-Adventure Tour
Trip length varies by date
Activity Levels 1-2
Premiere Hotels
Costa Rica Highlands to Coast Multi-Adventure Tour
Trip length varies by date
Activity Levels 1-2
Premiere Hotels
2024: Dec2025: Jan-Apr, Jun-Aug, Nov-Dec2026: Jan-Apr, Jun-Aug
Cloud Forest, Waterfalls, Volcanoes & Beaches
Pura vida! Not just a greeting in Costa Rica, but a way of being. Pure life. Enthusiasm for adventure. Seize it all, from hidden jungle hot springs to rushing mountain rivers. Howler monkeys and iguanas. Zip lines, white-water rafting, biking, hiking and hammocks. Embrace pura vida in Costa Rica.
Highlights
- Hike through a cloud forest to Costa Rica's largest waterfall, Catarata del Toro, which plunges into an ancient volcano crater
- Run the rapids of the Río Sarapiquí, scanning the shore for toucans, sloths and other unique jungle dwellers
- Bike along Lake Arenal and gaze at imposing Arenal Volcano rising majestically from the lush green rain forest
- Indulge in local specialties prepared by an expert chef in a Costa Rican cooking class
Start/EndSan José
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
Welcome to the cloud forest, one of the world's most precious and captivating tropical ecosystems • Start your adventure with a walk on the grounds of the Espíritu Santo Coffee Estate • Learn about the coffee-making process, from planting to tasting • Luxuriate at an eco-retreat set in a 500-acre reserve • Hike to Catarata del Toro, the largest waterfall in Costa Rica, and watch the water crash into an ancient volcanic crater • Visit a local home and discover the secret to perfect handmade tortillas.
Nights 1-2
"When you're sitting on a lookout deck with a whirlpool, perched high above the forest, it's a blissful reminder of how precious el silencio can be," said Travel + Leisure about this 500-acre sanctuary. (spa)
Day 3
Buckle up for a white-water rafting excursion on the Río Sarapiquí • Watch for playful monkeys, gentle sloths, green iguanas and colorful toucans • Vacation at our rain forest retreat situated at the base of legendary Arenal Volcano • Enjoy a Costa Rican cooking class and learn how to make a guaro mojito.
Night 3
Take in majestic views of Arenal Volcano while soaking in your suite's private whirlpool. (pool, spa)
Days 4-6
Cross Lake Arenal by boat, then explore its lush jungle surroundings by bike • Ride through a vibrant landscape colored by palms, ferns, fig trees and bromeliads • Not a biker? A hike on the lava flow of Arenal Volcano awaits • Soak in a natural hot spring hidden in a forest oasis • A private plane whisks us to the Pacific coast • Explore some of Costa Rica's most stunning beaches and hidden trails • At our oceanfront resort, opt to ride horseback, take a surf lesson, enjoy a complimentary yoga class or lounge on the beach.
Nights 4-5
This eco-friendly resort is tucked away between an ocean cove and the forest on the pristine Nicoya Peninsula. (pool, spa)
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
“Pura vida”, or “pure life”, is not just a Costa Rican greeting – it’s a state of mind. While Costa Rica’s tourist industry is well accustomed to welcoming foreign visitors, you may still notice that service here can lack a sense of urgency, reflecting the slower pace and relaxed approach to life that is typical throughout the region. As such, patience and a sense of humor are always recommended when traveling in Central America. Your Backroads leaders will be close by to ease the way.
Hotels
World-Class Hotels
Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-2
Premiere Hotel
"When you're sitting on a lookout deck with a whirlpool, perched high above the forest, it's a blissful reminder of how precious el silencio can be," said Travel + Leisure about this 500-acre sanctuary. (spa)
Night 3
*Casual Hotel
Take in majestic views of Arenal Volcano while soaking in your suite's private whirlpool. (pool, spa)
Nights 4-5
Premiere Hotel
This eco-friendly resort is tucked away between an ocean cove and the forest on the pristine Nicoya Peninsula. (pool, spa)
Gallery
Bikes
Choose Your Perfect Bike
Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.
Included in your trip price
- Suited for a wide range of cyclists
- Comfortable ergonomic seat
- Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
- Upright handlebars only
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
Please Select a Group Size
Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.
