Combine the best of Costa Rica’s natural wonders and beautiful coastlines on this captivating itinerary. Choose between a self-drive for the freedom to explore at your own pace or opt for private transfers for a more relaxed journey between destinations.
1 / 8
2 / 8
3 / 8
4 / 8
5 / 8
6 / 8
7 / 8
8 / 8
Itinerary
2 Nights – San José
2 Nights – Arenal Volcano / La Fortuna
3 Nights – Monteverde
5 Nights – Beach
2 Nights – Rincón de la Vieja (Optional Extension)
Enjoy as a self drive or with a mix of internal flights and private transfers.
✈️ UK to San José (2 nights): You’ll begin your Costa Rican adventure in the lively capital of San José, offering the perfect introduction to the country’s culture, history, food and ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle. Explore museums such as the Gold Museum and Jade Museum or stroll through the Central Market with its maze of stalls. As night falls, head to the city’s wonderful restaurant and bar scene in Barrio Escalante for a taste of the local dishes and to see why the city is quickly gaining a reputation as a foodie’s paradise.
🚗 San Jose to Arenal Volcano / La Fortuna (2 nights): Heading out of the city, you’ll drive to the stunning Arenal Volcano region, known for its cone-shaped active volcano and beautiful surrounding landscapes. The town of La Fortuna is at the base of the volcano and is perfect as a base for exploring the wider region. Whether you’re exploring hot springs, hiking through the Arenal Volcano National Park, or enjoying a thrilling zipline adventure through the rainforest, there’s no shortage of activities. The nearby La Fortuna Waterfall is also a must-see, where you can take a dip in its crystal-clear pool. Also take a boat tour of Lake Arenal for great views of the volcano and wildlife.
🚗 Arenal Volcano/La Fortuna to Monteverde (3 nights): Your journey continues to Monteverde, a cloud forest reserve perched high in the mountains. Constantly draped in mist, the Monteverde Reserve is an almost ethereal park that is home to a wide array of wildlife. Explore the cloud forest on guided walks and walk along the suspension bridges for a bird’s-eye view of the forest. The reserve is also home to several creatures including howler monkeys, sloths, and the quetzal – an elusive and endangered bird with eye-catching green and bright red feathers.
🚗 or ✈️ Monteverde to Beach (5 nights): For the final leg of your trip, you’ll head to the coast to unwind on one of Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches. There are a wealth of beach destinations to choose from, each offering something unique, depending on what you’re looking for and how far you’re willing to travel. For the most convenient option, Manuel Antonio is the closest option, where you can enjoy a perfect blend of rainforest exploration and pristine beaches. With vibrant bars, restaurants, and hotels providing easy access to the national park, it’s ideal for both adventure and relaxation. For a less touristy spot on this coastline, nearby Jaco, Dominical, and Uvita offer equally beautiful alternatives. Or for a more wildlife-focused beach experience, you could head to Drake Bay from which you will have easy access to the Corcovado National Park and also Cano Island, popular with divers and snorkellers. If you’re looking for luxury or all-inclusive resorts, the Guanacaste coast is your best bet. Although it’s a longer drive, or a short flight from San José, the area boasts stunning resorts such as Playa Flamingo, lively Tamarindo, or Nosara, known for its wellness retreats, or Punta Islita, home to boutique luxury hotels. On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita offer serene, unspoiled beaches and a laid-back atmosphere – although though getting there requires a bit more travel time.
✈️ Beach to UK: Time to pack your suitcases and leave behind the incredible sights and wonders of Costa Rica, taking with you memories of adventure and paradise.
🚗 Optional Extension: 2 Nights in Rincón de la Vieja
If you’d like to discover even more of this fascinating country, you could consider extending your holiday with a visit to extension to Rincón de la Vieja. It’s an ideal stop after visiting Arenal Volcano/La Fortuna or alternatively after your stay in Monteverde if you are travelling to the Guanacaste region along the Pacific coastline for your beach destination. This fascinating volcanic region offers you the chance to witness an active volcanic and to explore its geothermal activity, waterfalls, and a whole host of wildlife.
Why choose eShores?
One to One Service
Our experienced personal travel consultants will ensure you find the most suitable holiday, whilst taking care of every last detail. Everything from start to finish will be effortless.
100% Tailor Made
We can use any hotel, in any destination, so we will craft an itinerary to suit your exact needs. Also, as we can provide any itinerary, the only holiday we'll offer, is the one that's right for you.
Fully Protected
Our ATOL bonding provides you with the financial protection you need and as a member of the Travel Trust Association, you'll have 100% financial protection. Covering you for any eventuality.
Competitive Pricing
As a tour operator & travel agent, we'll search the market to ensure that we find you the best price. Also as an online business, we can ensure our prices are as competitive as possible.
-
Jayne
We have used Eshores before after a recommendation, our holiday went very smoothly and we had an amazing time. This time, out travel consultant Rob was very helpful with our Dubai and Thailand holiday. He prepared a quote very quickly with options for us. It is quick and easy to email any preferences and Rob gets back to you. Excellent service!
Posted 22 hours ago -
Donna
I have booked with eshores over the last 10 years travelling to multiple destinations. The expertise that Dave offers is fantastic, he's very knowledgeable, extremely patient and always helps us in booking holidays of our dreams for the most affordable prices around. We give Dave our budget and he always delivers, we feel safe and secure travellers with eshores and can't wait for our next adventure 😀
Posted 2 days ago -
CarolDenise
Can’t believe we’ve only just discovered Eshores. Fantastic company, Dave Felton is so very helpful. Just completed our first trip with them and already booked next one - fantastic company
Posted 4 days ago -
Gary
Made an online enquiry which was dealt with promptly after a quick chat to ensure the holiday matched our needs. Two quotes were supplied along with a range of hotel alternatives. Choices made, new quotes provided literally straight away. Holiday all booked, confirmation provided. Very happy customers.
Posted 4 days ago -
Julie
First time using eShores and was so impressed. Rob was first class from start to finish with planning our itinerary to Vietnam. We are so looking forward to our trip and will definitely recommend eShores to our family and friends.
Posted 5 days ago -
SarahElizabeth
Rachel was so helpful and very patient with us adding things to our holiday. Would highly recommend and will definitely be using eShores again. Thanks very much
Posted 1 week ago -
NatalieAnne
I have booked 3 big holidays with eShores and always been looked after very well. Great company who care about their customers. Particular shout out to Emma McDonough and Dave Felton
Posted 1 week ago -
Michael
Laura has proved efficient, helpful and patient at the research/booking stage of our holiday.
Posted 1 week ago -
DavidPaul
eShores managed our holiday to Skopelos and Skiathos in June 2024. The arrangements went to plan with clear communications from the eShores team. When my wife injured her knee whilst we were on holiday, and we needed to change the return transfer arrangements it was easy to contact eShores, and they made the necessary changes. We have just booked a similar holiday in 2025 with eShores.
Posted 1 week ago -
RobertEdward
Dave Felton smashed it again. I've booked previously with Dave and can't see past him. His customer service and knowledge of the world is mighty impressive. I've passed his name on to others who have booked with him who also sing his praises. I've booked my holiday for 2025 and will continue to use Dave with confidence going forward.
Posted 2 weeks ago
Talk To The Experts
Your personal travel consultant will get to know your needs, ensuring they find you the most suitable holiday, at the best price!