Costa Rica Luxe Explorer

Costa Rica is where rainforest meets the Pacific, and the days swing from volcano views to salt-spray sunsets. This Privada journey pairs Arenal’s steamy hot springs and hanging bridges with the calm coves of the Papagayo Peninsula. With private guides leading the way, you’ll wander misty jungle trails in the shadow of Arenal Volcano, spot toucans and sloths at dusk, and (if you’re game) rappel beside hidden waterfalls before sinking into thermal pools under the stars. Then a bush-plane hop whisks you to the coast, where glassy bays beg for kayaks, snorkels, and an unhurried sunset sail. Each evening, retreat to the lush casitas of Nayara Gardens and the design-forward ease of the Andaz—boutique comfort without losing the wild. It’s adventure dialed just right: jungle mornings, ocean afternoons, and a slower rhythm that makes “pura vida” feel like second nature.

Highlights:
- Two worlds in one trip: rainforest hot springs + Pacific bays & coves.
- Seamless logistics: SJO in, private drive to Arenal; bush plane to the coast; LIR out (no backtracking).
- Choose-your-own soft-adventure: hanging bridges, waterfall swims, sloth night walks, snorkeling, SUP, sailing.
- Time to truly unwind: on-site hot springs (Nayara) + beach coves & pools (Andaz).
Hotels:
- Arenal: Nayara Gardens
- Papagayo: Andaz Peninsula Papagayo
Seasonal Temperatures:
- Arenal (rainforest): ~88°F / 70°F (31°C / 21°C). Mist/showers possible year-round; wetter May–Nov.
- Papagayo (dry forest/coast): ~90–95°F / 75°F (32–35°C / 24°C). Sunniest Dec–Apr; green and warm May–Nov.
Activity Level:
- 2/5: (Easy-Moderate). Most experiences are half-day; we scale to preference and family ages.
Best For:
- Adventure & Active
- Nature & Landscapes
- Rest & Wellness
- Luxury & Style

DAY 1 : Arrive San José (SJO) ➜ Arenal / Nayara Gardens

Meet & Greet at SJO. Private 2.5–3.5 hr drive to Arenal. Check into your casita, decompress in the thermal pools, early dinner on-site.

DAY 2 : Arenal: Hanging Bridges & Hot Springs Reset

Morning guided Mistico Hanging Bridges walk (wildlife spotting + volcano views). Afternoon at leisure—pool, spa, or private hot-spring soaking. Optional chef’s tasting this evening.

DAY 3 : Arenal: Choose Your Adventure

Pick one: La Fortuna Waterfall hike & swim, canyoning/river rappel, chocolate/coffee/cacao farm tour, or zipline canopy. Evening sloth night walk (included) to round out the jungle bingo card.

DAY 4 : Arenal: Free Day (Dial Up or Down)

Sleep in. Optional Arenal 1968 lava trail, e-bike countryside ride, or full-day Río Celeste (turquoise river; longer drive). Sunset soak and stargazing from your plunge tub.

DAY 5 : Arenal ➜ Papagayo (Bush Plane) / Andaz Check-In

Scenic bush-plane hop from Arenal region to Liberia/Papagayo area (weight-restricted soft bags recommended). Private transfer to Andaz. Beach & pool afternoon; dinner al fresco.

DAY 6 : Papagayo: Bay Day & Signature Experience

Morning guided bay exploration by kayak/SUP (included) with snorkel stops as conditions allow. Afternoon spa or tee time at Peninsula Papagayo (optional). Sunset vibes on the terrace.

DAY 7 : Papagayo: Coastal Adventure

Options: private catamaran (snorkel + beach hop), surf lesson at Playa Iguanita/Tamarindo, inshore fishing, or volcanic mud & hot-spring day inland. Evening at leisure.

DAY 8 : Papagayo: Sail into Sunset

Free morning (beach, bikes, pools). Late-afternoon shared sunset sail (included): dolphins often cameo; drinks & light bites on board. Farewell dinner overlooking the bay.