Your Costa Rican adventure begins in the capital city, San José. After arriving at the airport, an included transfer brings you to the group hotel, making the arrival process seamless and stress-free.

In the evening, you’ll meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing.

Today the journey begins in earnest as you travel through Costa Rica’s lush countryside to Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast. Accessible only by boat, Tortuguero is often called the “Amazon of Costa Rica.” Travellers glide through jungle waterways surrounded by rainforest before settling into a secluded lodge. At the conservancy, learn about turtle conservation and the four species that nest here on this Journeys Highlight Moment.

The next day wake early to explore the canals once more by boat spotting wildlife including Howler monkeys, sloths, caimans and numerous tropical birds. The afternoon is free to relax by the lodge pool, stroll along the beach, or take an optional kayaking excursion through the jungle waterways.

Leaving Tortuguero behind, travel inland towards the town of La Fortuna, sitting beneath the imposing Arenal Volcano. Along the way, the group visits the Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative, a community-run project supported by G Adventures (The G for Good projects support over 200 farming families). Here you’ll meet the local farmers and sample freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee. In the evening, enjoy one of the tour’s most authentic cultural experiences & a Journeys Highlight Moment - a home visit to tortilla-making workshop.

On day 6 take some free time to explore La Fortuna’s adventure playground with optional activities such as waterfall hikes, a visit to the hot springs visits or paddleboarding on Lake Arenal

Today’s scenic transfer combines land and boat travel as you head to Monteverde, one of the most biodiverse habitats on Earth. Monteverde sits high in the mountains and is famous for its mystical cloud forests - ecosystems where mist drifts through the treetops.

Take a guided walk through the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, where you’ll learn about this remarkable ecosystem as you explore its towering ferns, vibrant orchids, and moss covered trees. Bird enthusiasts will especially enjoy the chance to spot the legendary Resplendent Quetzal! For those looking for an adrenaline-fix ask your guide about optional adventures including zip-lining through the forest canopy.

One of the defining experiences of the tour and a Your Journeys Highlight Moment, takes place today at the Monteverde Institute - a research and educational organization supported by National Geographic. Hear from researchers about conservation efforts and participate in a reforestation project, helping plant trees and restore the cloud forest ecosystem.

Leaving the mountains behind, travel to the Pacific coast and the beach town of Manuel Antonio. This afternoon is yours to relax on its golden beaches or explore the laid-back seaside atmosphere. On day 11 take a trip with your expert into the wonderful Manuel Antonio National Park - one of Costa Rica’s most wildlife-rich reserves. With the help of your expert guide, expect to see white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths, iguanas and a variety of exotic bird life. Don’t forget your swimming gear either - the park also boasts beautiful white-sand beaches perfect for a swim! 

Enjoy a day at leisure on your final day in Manuel Antonio. Speak to your helpful guide if you would like to book additional activities including surf lessons, snorkelling, mangrove kayaking and even dolphin and whale watching tours.

The journey winds down as you and your group return to San José for a final evening together. Depart on your last day with new friends made and unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s wildlife, culture and landscapes.