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Tropical Tranquility: Costa Rica's Coast
San Jose, Costa Rica
8 Days
From $4995
Hiking, Snorkeling, Swimming
Tropical Tranquility: Costa Rica's Coast
San Jose, Costa Rica
8 Days
From $4995
Hiking, Snorkeling, Swimming
Trip Overview
Coastal Costa Rica—Rainforests, Waterfalls, and Wildlife by the Sea
Get ready for an 8-day adventure along the stunning Pacific coast of Costa Rica, where biodiversity, beaches, and bucket-list wildlife come together in one unforgettable journey. The trip blends active exploration with coastal relaxation, taking you deep into some of the country’s most vibrant ecosystems.
We begin with a visit to Carara National Park, home to an incredible array of birdlife, including the brilliant Scarlet Macaw. From there, enjoy a catamaran cruise, complete with snorkeling in warm tropical waters, before heading to the sun-drenched shores of Marino Bellena National Park.
Next, we explore the remote wonders of Corocovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, with scenic hikes through untouched rainforest. Cool off at the breathtaking Nauyaca Waterfall, where you can swim in its crystal-clear natural pools, and end your journey in Manuel Antonio National Park, where vibrant jungle, white-sand beaches, and playful monkeys await. This is Costa Rica at its best—a perfect mix of wild nature, tropical adventure, and soul-soothing scenery that invites you to unwind, explore, and reconnect.
Maximum group size: 14
Highlights
- Explore Carara National Park, a worldwide known birding destination
- Snorkel and cruise off of Playa Biezans
- Hike at Marino Ballena National Park
- Look for wildlife at Corcovado National Park
- Swim at Nauyaca Waterfall
- Experience the tranquility of Manuel Antonio National Park
Inclusions
- 1 - 2 local guides plus an AGC guide depending on group size
- Seven nights double occupancy lodging
- All activities specified on the itinerary
- Private transportation within Costa Rica
- All meals from dinner the first night through breakfast the last day
- Airport transfer to and from San Jose (on day of arrival and departure at scheduled times)
- Gratuities for drivers and incidental guides
Trip Info
This trip is rated 1 and is designed for active women who want to immerse themselves in the natural history of this fascinating country. While the trip is active, none of the activities are strenuous and all are designed to give you different perspectives on the flora and fauna.
Rating: [1] 2 3 4 5
Curious about how we rate our trips and how to prepare for yours? Explore our AGC Fitness Guide for more details.
This trip includes hiking, walking, swimming, and snorkeling. Led by a local naturalist guide, we will immerse ourselves in the natural history of this country that is amazingly diverse.
Wondering what kind of gear works well for our trips? Our AGC Gear Guide highlights some of our go-to favorites.
We are staying at a variety of accommodations, from a well-situated and modern hotel in downtown San Jose to smaller family owned lodges in other places. Every place we stay is clean and comfortable, with double-occupancy rooms and ensuite bathrooms. Four single rooms are available for an additional cost.
Ready to picture yourself on this adventure?
Download the detailed trip summary for a closer look — daily highlights, travel notes, and everything you need to know before you go. It’s the perfect way to dream, plan, and share with a friend!
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
It's time to shake off those winter blues and revel in the wonders of the tropics. Plan to arrive in San José, Costa Rica and be through customs by 4 PM local time. Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our team of friendly leaders; our AGC guide and local partner. From the airport, we'll drive 30 minutes to our hotel in the bustling Capital. During our group orientation at 5:30 PM we'll learn more about this incredible country that hosts more than 5% of the world's biodiversity and then we'll learn about the delicious cuisine over a shared group dinner.
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Irazu Hotel & Studios (or similar)
Daily Activities: Welcome Dinner
Travel Time: Driving (~30 minutes)
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Irazu Hotel & Studios (or similar)
Daily Activities: Welcome Dinner
Travel Time: Driving (~30 minutes)
DAY 2
We will make our way from San José to Esterillos Beach, a stunning coastal area on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere. Esterillos offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with nearby attractions like the lively town of Jacó; and the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park. After a local lunch, we will explore Carara National Park, famous for its unique transition forest and rich birdlife, including the endangered Scarlet Macaw. Carara National Park is a worldwide known birding destination and a haven for nature lovers.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Costa Pacifica Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Guided Tour at Carara National Park
Travel Time: Driving (2-2.5 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Costa Pacifica Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Guided Tour at Carara National Park
Travel Time: Driving (2-2.5 hours)
DAY 3
We'll have the morning to soak up the sun on the stunning nearby beaches and explore the lively beach town of Jacó where you'll have the opportunity to do some shopping for souvenirs. In the afternoon, we'll embark on a Catamaran Cruise and snorkeling adventure at the secluded Playa Biezans, where you can see vibrant marine life, including humpback whales, dolphins, and stingrays. On board, you'll feast on a delicious local lunch, fresh fruits, and refreshing natural juices, just what you need to fuel up after all that snorkeling!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Costa Pacifica Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling (~4 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (2.5-3 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Costa Pacifica Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling (~4 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (2.5-3 hours)
DAY 4
In the morning, we'll embark on a guided hiking tour of Marino Ballena National Park, a haven for whale and dolphin sightings. The park is famous for its unique "whale tail" sandbar and rocky formation, where humpback whales and various dolphin species come to breed and play. Afterward, we'll refuel with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon is yours to relax and explore the laid-back town of Uvita and enjoy Playa Uvita. The beach here is less crowded and surrounded by lush rainforest which creates a serene and picturesque place to unwind after our morning hike.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Tour of Marino Ballena National Park (2-3 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (~40 minutes)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Tour of Marino Ballena National Park (2-3 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (~40 minutes)
DAY 5
Get ready for an epic adventure with the Corcovado National Park Day Tour, where you'll explore one of the most biodiverse places on Earth! Start your journey at the San Pedrillo Ranger Station and dive into two thrilling guided hikes through lush, wild trails. On the first 3-hour hike, you'll be on the lookout for monkeys, sloths, coatis, and tapirs, while marveling at towering trees and rare plants. The second shorter trail will give you the chance to see even more wildlife, including birds, crocodiles, and a stunning waterfall. To top it off, the boat ride to the park offers incredible views of the Osa Peninsula, and if you're lucky, you might spot dolphins, turtles, or even whales! It's a day packed with nature's wonders and unforgettable moments.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (4-5 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (~5 hours), Boating (~1 hour)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (4-5 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (~5 hours), Boating (~1 hour)
DAY 6
Nauyaca Waterfall is truly a sight to behold. To get to this iconic waterfall, we’ll take a scenic hike through the jungle taking in the diversity of plants, flowers, and wildlife along the way. The falls are divided into two levels, with water cascading down from a height of about 150 feet at the top and then dropping another 65 feet to form a deep, natural pool at the base. The force of the water creates a misty spray that creates a cool and refreshing atmosphere, making it an ideal place for a swim. Surrounded by lush rainforest and mountains, the backdrop is just as impressive as the waterfall itself, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (3-4 hours, ~7 miles roundtrip)
Travel Time: Driving (1-2 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (3-4 hours, ~7 miles roundtrip)
Travel Time: Driving (1-2 hours)
DAY 7
Start your day with a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park, where lush walking trails lead you through vibrant rainforests and past serene, paradisiacal beaches. This natural haven is a unique blend of tropical forest, mangroves, and marine environments, home to endangered species and abundant wildlife. As you explore, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. After lunch, we will head back to Costa Rica's capital where we will enjoy a final dinner together.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Irazu Hotel & Studios (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (3-4 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (~4 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Irazu Hotel & Studios (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (3-4 hours)
Travel Time: Driving (~4 hours)
DAY 8
Adios! Today we bid farewell to the tropics and head home. We will be transferred as a group to the international airport at 9 AM and you can plan to leave any time after 12 PM.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel Time: Driving (~30 minutes)
Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel Time: Driving (~30 minutes)
Reviews
4.4
(9 reviews)
5
(5)
4
(3)
3
(1)
2
(0)
1
(0)
*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.
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Janet H.
0 months ago
Both hotels outside of San Jose were nice. Great to stay multiple nights. Loved the restaurant in San Jose. The food was very good throughout. Guides were good, knowledgeable and personable. Some of the trip activities more touristy than I expected. The catamaran trip was fun and we did see whales, dolphins and turtles but the snorkeling was lame. Felt like I was snorkeling in a school of human fish snorkeling in a crowd. one highlight is that striped fish swam close by as the leader was pulling a string with bait on it. The boat was basically a booze cruise and it was odd that we had a late meal on the boat, Beautiful ride nonetheless, rainbow on way home. At Whale's Tail would have liked to do more tidal pooling and could have snorkeled but were told no, asked day before, which turned out to be wrong. That one park was a very long boat ride but I think it was worth it .... it was great that we did the hike that allowed us to swim instead of the planned one. Lunch was good and setting beautiful. I appreciated that the guide lugged her scope along and went out of her way to point out wildlife. Hotel in San Jose was low-point, hate carpet in a hotel room generally but worse in hot, humid environment. Poor water pressure and lukewarm "hot" water. Loved the third hotel - Cristal Ballena? Unique spot was glad I spent one day at hotel.
Leslie B.
0 months ago
The itinerary, the guides and my travelling companions (especially Katie 😊).
Mary C.
0 months ago
I really enjoyed the flexible and adventurous spirit of the entire group. Tour guides were attentive to the needs of the participants and able to pivot seamlessly when surprises came up. The group as a whole really gelled and got along really well.
Katie T.
0 months ago
Shearon R.
0 months ago
What a fantastic week with remarkable, fun women! Loved everything about this trip, such fun activities, so much laughter!!
Molly R.
0 months ago
Destination was beautiful, as expected. However, fellow participants made this trip extra special. Everyone, including our AGC and local guides were excellent company to travel with.
Joycellen A.
0 months ago
The beaches were beautiful
Barbara B.
0 months ago
The women were very welcoming and friendly and the guides were excellent. I enjoyed meeting all of them.
Lori C.
0 months ago
Gorgeous country, wonderful group of women
Dates & Prices
| Year | Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2027 |
January 16 to January 23 |
Available |
$4995.00 |
Year
2027
Departure Date
January 16 to January 23, 2027
Availability
Available
Price
$4995.00
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
Yes, you’ll need a valid passport that does not expire within six months of travel. U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.
No, if you’re coming from the United States or Canada, you won’t need an electrical converter . Costa Rica uses the same 120V and Type A/B plugs (two flat prongs, sometimes with a grounding prong). Travelers from other regions including Europe will need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.
February is part of the dry season on the Pacific Coast, making it one of the best times to visit. Expect warm days (80s°F / 27–30°C), cooler evenings, and lots of sunshine. A light rain jacket is still useful, as tropical showers can pop up anytime.
This trip is rated Easy Active (Level 1). Activities include rainforest walks, swimming, snorkeling, and some light hikes. No previous experience is necessary, and activities are designed to be fun and accessible.
Yes. Costa Rica is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in Central America. As with any travel, it’s smart to be mindful of your belongings, but traveling with our group and experienced guides makes it worry-free.
We’ll stay in comfortable eco-lodges and small hotels with modern amenities and private bathrooms. Rooms are double occupancy unless you request a single supplement.
No vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica. The CDC recommends being up-to-date on routine vaccines and considering Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Check with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are common, and ATMs are available. It’s handy to carry small bills for tips, snacks, and local markets.
Your trip covers most expenses, but you’ll want to bring funds for souvenirs, additional beverages, snacks, or optional extras. Around $150–200 USD is usually plenty for the week.
Yes, most lodges and hotels have Wi-Fi, though it may be slower in remote areas. Cell service is reliable along the Pacific Coast. Check with your provider for international roaming or consider using WhatsApp over Wi-Fi.
Costa Rican food is fresh and flavorful, with lots of rice, beans, vegetables, tropical fruit, and seafood. If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.
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