Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into the hotel and enjoy the city.
Amid the hustle and bustle, San Jose has beautiful parks, museums and the ornate National Theatre downtown. The central plaza is a good place to people-watch. A mime, juggler, marimba band, magician, or storyteller may be performing for whatever is collected when the hat is passed. Artisan booths are common, creating a regular arts and crafts fair atmosphere.
Travel from San Jose to La Fortuna, and opt to swim at a local swimming hole at the base of a waterfall during free time in the afternoon. La Fortuna, the town near the foot of Arenal Volcano, is an excellent base for adventure.
Take to the water and enjoy an included combo kayaking and stand-up paddle board session on Lake Arenal. Enjoy a free afternoon, and opt to go rafting, waterfall rappelling, or take a dip in therapeutic hot springs. Work your arms, legs and core muscles in an included kayak and stand-up paddle board session on Lake Arenal.
Enjoy a free day for adrenaline-fueled optionals such as the Cerro Chato extreme hike, whitewater rafting on Class III and IV rapids, waterfall rappelling or mountain biking. Or take it easy with some bird watching in Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge by boat or a massage in town.
Travel to Sarapiqui and to the tranquil Cuarto River. Hop into kayaks and cruise downstream. The calm waters are perfect for birdwatching and wildlife spotting in the forest canopy.
Travel east towards the Caribbean coast, then transfer to a boat and motor through canals to arrive in Tortuguero at the jungle-lined coast of Costa Rica. After arrival, enjoy a guided visit to the town of Tortuguero.
Enjoy an included guided kayaking excursions this morning, followed by free time in the afternoon. Opt for a nighttime excursion to look for nesting sea turtles laying eggs when it is turtle season. Along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, between April and October, sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach. Green turtles are most common, but leatherbacks, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles are also occasionally found near Tortuguero. You must book a tour with a registered tour guide in order to be allowed on the beach at night during nesting season. From November to early January, baby turtles will be making the journey from their nest to the ocean.
Return to San Jose for an optional final night out with the group. If you have time, check out the sites you may have missed at the start of the trip or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
