TURTLES & TOUCANS

Explore some of Costa Rica's less visited spots, ideal for spotting turtles nesting along the Pacific Coast or discovering a wealth of tropical birds in the region around Turrialba before heading to the tranquil Pacific shores for some relaxation by the beach.

Day 1 - London/San José
Fly from London Heathrow via Madrid to San José. Two nights at the Finca Rosa Blanca, located amongst the coffee and fruit plantations of the Central Valley. 

Day 2 - San José
Today is free to relax at your hotel in the spa and the infinity pool or stroll through the coffee plantations with their knowledgeable guides. Or perhaps take a tour to the nearby La Paz waterfalls at Poas Volcano. 

Day 3 - San José/Tortuguero
Begin with an early drive to Tortuguero's dock through banana plantations and Braulio Carrillo National Park. Board a comfortable launch for the two-hour canal cruise to Tortuguero with a chance of seeing caiman and numerous bird species on the way. Arrive at Manatus Lodge, your base for the next two nights. 

Day 4 - Tortuguero
Enjoy an early morning group boat tour through the canals and a visit the local town. The National Park is a major nesting area for green sea turtles and protects over 300 additional species including endangered green macaws and jaguars. 

Day 5 - Tortuguero/Turrialba
After breakfast, return to boat from the lodge to Caño Blanco and then by road to San José to meet your private transfer to Turrialba, passing sugarcane and coffee plantations and spectacular views of the towering Turrialba volcano to arrive at the Casa Turire Hotel.

Day 6 - Turrialba
Visit the Guayabo Archaeological Monument, a mysterious 'lost city' veiled in the shadow of the Turrialba volcano. Ancient stone carvings, still functioning Pre-Columbian aqueducts and paved roads recede into the lush cloud forest, all hinting at Costa Rica's past civilisations. 

Day 7 - Turrialba
Enjoy a guided walk to the Hacienda Experience, a unique 100 year-old family-owned farm nestled in the mountains. Learn about conventional and organic agriculture while touring sugar, coffee and macadamia plantations. 

Day 8 - Turrialba
Relax at the hotel today and explore the hotel's own tropical gardens hunting for toucans and parakeets and other colourful tropical birds which are regular visitors to this area. The more adventurous could try white water rafting on the Pacuare River. 

Day 9 - Turrialba/Nicoya Peninsula
Take a short flight to Punta Islita, a spectacular stretch of coastline on the isolated Nicoya Peninsula. Stay at the beautiful hilltop Hotel Punta Islita overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

Days 10 to 12 - Nicoya Peninsula
Explore this vast expanse of coastline with its beaches, small charming villages and many walking trails. Surfing is popular here and there are many other activities available from your coastal retreat. 

Day 13 - Nicoya Peninsula/San José
Fly back to San José and overnight at a pretty boutique hotel in San Jose. The afternoon is yours to explore the city, perhaps heading to the Botanical Gardens or the Gold Museum. 

Day 14 - San José/London
Transfer to the airport for your flights via Madrid to London Heathrow.

At A&K all of our journeys are individually tailored to suit your needs and timescale. However, as a guide, this 14 day journey in Costa Rica will cost from £3,195 per person based on two adults sharing with flights from the UK and subject to availability.