Slow Travel: Costa Rica in-depth
21 days from £6,573 pp
Take the time to truly experience Costa Rica’s breath-taking diversity on this three-week bespoke tour. From tropical rainforests, cloud forests, vibrant costal ecosystems and wild beaches, connect with local people, culture, and nature. Each destination encourages you to slow down and discover the country’s remarkable wildlife, conservation efforts, and authentic charm. This is Slow Travel Costa Rica In-Depth.
Trip Highlights
- Witness the unforgettable sight of green turtles nesting on the beaches
- Explore the Osa Peninsula- one of the most biodiverse areas in Costa Rica
- Stay at the premier birding lodge in Costa Rica
- Escape the crowds in destinations that emphasise sustainability, conservation and environmental education
Our Expert Tip
”The phrase “Pura Vida,” meaning “pure life,” is commonly used in the local culture as a greeting, farewell, and an expression of happiness”
Scarlett, Costa Rica Expert
Detailed Slow Travel costa rica in Depth Itinerary
Day 1-2: San José
Upon arrival, settle into your boutique hotel in the heart of San José, the country’s vibrant capital. After a good night’s rest, visit the Toucan Rescue Ranch to meet rescued sloths, macaws, and toucans while learning about vital conservation efforts.
In the afternoon, join a local guide to explore the city’s hidden gems, sample local culinary specialties, and uncover the city’s history and daily life through captivating stories.
Day 3-4: Tortuguero
Travel by road and boat to Tortuguero National Park, one of the largest remaining areas of tropical rainforest in Central America and best known as the Amazon of Costa Rica.
Stay at a rustic waterfront lodge and spend your days exploring the park’s winding canals by boat or kayak, spotting monkeys, caiman, and colourful birdlife.
Between June and October, witness the unforgettable sight of green turtles nesting on the beaches. Visit the local village to learn about the community life in this remote corner of Costa Rica.
Day 5-7: Sarapiqui
Boat journey through the Tortuguero canals and overland to Sarapiqui: off the beaten track virgin rainforest and home to wildlife and adventure. Spend three nights at a world-renowned eco-lodge committed to advancing the practice of sustainable tourism.
Visit a local cacao plantation for a firsthand chocolate-making tour and learn about the natural and cultural history of the cacao plant.
Take a guided hike through the La Selva Biological Station, a protected area of low-land tropical rainforest well-known for its pioneering research.
Day 8-9: Turriabla
Leave the tropical rainforest behind for the lush volcanic landscapes of Turriabla, a premier destination for birdwatching, outdoor adventure and coffee.
Stay at a family-run lodge and head out on a private coffee tour and explore the surrounding forest on a birdwatching tour and observe a wealth of bird species including tanagers, toucans, manakins and more.
At leisure, choose from hiking, horse-riding, ziplining or white-water rafting on the legendary Rio Pacuare.
Day 10-12: San Gerardo de Dota
Continue overland to the remote, misty cloud forest of San Gerardo de Dota, a sleepy village tucked away in the Talamanca mountains.
Stay at a family-owned hotel and with your local guide, seek out the Resplendent Quetzal in Los Quetzales National Park.
Spend time exploring the lodge’s private trails and enjoy exceptional bird watching, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area.
Day 13-16: Corcovado National Park
Travel south to the Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse places on earth and wildest areas in Costa Rica.
Stay at a secluded eco-lodge accessible only by boat and choose from a variety of wilderness activities included as part of your stay.
Hike the trails of Corcovado National Park, snorkel the vibrant coral reefs at Cano Island, kayak through mangroves, and experience exceptional wildlife sightings.
Day 17-20: Manuel Antonio
End your Slow Travel Costa Rica In-Depth Holiday on the Central Pacific Coast at Manual Antonio, where jungle meets wild and golden beaches.
Stay at a boutique hotel nestled on a lush rainforest-bluff overlooking the Pacific and just a short walk from the beach. Spend your time at leisure soaking up the ocean views or choose from several tours to explore the region.
From sunset sails to fishing or visits to the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park you are not short of things to do here.
Day 21: Depart
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home. Interested in including Costa Rica as part of a larger, longer sabbatical holiday or retirement trip to Latin America? Chat to our experts about our longer tours and holidays.
When to Go
Why Book With Travel Differently
Passionate and experienced
- Each member of the team has over a decade of experience in the industry
- Our 5* client reviews reflect our service & standards
- We are a fully independent & owner-run tour operator
- Our holidays include full financial protection & ATOL coverage
- We are destination experts, ensuring authentic & reliable advice
Committed and Responsible
Tailor-made and Personal
- No two trips are the same, our holidays are 100% bespoke
- We design personal, genuine cultural connections & experiences
- From planning to travel, you’ll have one dedicated point of contact
- Our support is available around the clock during your holiday
- We take care of the details, so you don’t have to
Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
