Arenal Volcano and the Pacific Coast
Operated by Green World Adventures
$0 charged today. We place a pending $515 hold — released if the trip doesn’t lock in, captured as your deposit (25%) if it does.
- Group of 8–22 friends
- Lock-in defaults to 8 (you choose)
Powered by TrovaTrip · 4.7★ · 33k+ travelers
About this trip
Discover the true meaning of Pura Vida with a 7-day excursion through some of the most pristine environments anywhere on the planet. Volcanoes, rainforests, beaches, and more await those ready to escape city life for Costa Rica’s natural wonders and the warm embrace of its culture. This itinerary will take you from the mountains and forests to the beach and back and you will hike to incredible views, swim in beautiful waterfall pools, and snorkel the clear coastal waters. If your idea of a perfect trip means heading home with tired legs, a full heart, and a happy soul, this is the adventure for you!
What’s included
- Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
- Local Guide throughout trip
- All city transfers
What’s not included
- International flights
- Food and alcohol (except as noted)
- Visas and travel insurance
- Airport transfers
- Tips for Guides
What you’ll do
- Bienvenidos and welcome to Costa RicaBienvenidos and welcome to Costa Rica! TrovaTrip will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. After you get settled, you’ll join the rest of the crew for a welcome dinner and toast to the fun week ahead! Overnight in San José
- After breakfast at the hotel, you’re off…After breakfast at the hotel, you’re off to La Fortuna, home of the breathtaking Arenal Volcano! On the way, you’re making a stop at an organic farm. Immerse yourself in Costa Rican rural life as the Elizondo Herrera family take you around their farm and teach you about their different crops. Other activities will include learning how to milk a cow, and how to make homemade tortillas! At the end of the tour, you’ll sit down to enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by your hosts. The journey continues on to La Fortuna, where you’ll settle in at your hotel before continuing the adventure! Up next is an afternoon hiking excursion through Arenal Volcano National Park. Walk through hardened lava flows, witness panoramic views of the volcano and learn about plant and animal species on this one-of-a-kind trek! After some downtime in the hotel, get ready to soak those travel-sore muscles in some natural hot springs at the base of the volcano! You’re heading to the largest hot springs facility in the region, with 25 natural pools with temperatures ranging from 93F to 152F. The minerals and temperature of the water are believed to rid the body of harmful toxins and increase blood circulation - but it’s also just a perfect way to relax! In the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner at the property! Overnight in La Fortuna
- Enjoy a free morning to explore the…Enjoy a free morning to explore the charming town of La Fortuna, or if you’re up for more adventure, sign up for the optional Canyoneering tour! Rappel down waterfalls, jump into pools, downclimb the canyon wall and hike up through the rainforest! In the afternoon, meet the crew for an excursion to La Fortuna Waterfall. Don’t be intimidated by the waterfall’s 500 step decline - the views, wildlife and lush rainforest make it all worth it! Once you arrive at the waterfall, prepare to be blown away by its towering beauty! If the weather allows, you’ll even be able to take a dip! After drying off, it’s back to the hotel to enjoy some downtime and a good night’s sleep. Overnight in La Fortuna
- Are you ready for some beach timeAre you ready for some beach time? Today you’re off to the surf town of Jacó! After you’ve settled in at your beachfront hotel, the rest of the day is at your leisure! Overnight in Jacó
- Rise and shineRise and shine! Today you’re off on a kayaking and snorkeling adventure! You’ll be transferred to Agujas beach, where you’ll hop on your kayak and paddle out into the turquoise water. Relax on the sand, and when you’re ready, jump in to snorkel! You’ll be able to see a variety of tropical fish and maybe even sea turtles. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach packed with lots of fresh local ingredients! In the afternoon, hang out and relax or sign up for the optional Zip Line tour! Enjoy a classic Costa Rica adventure as you fly from treetop to treetop among the monkeys and birds! Overnight in Jacó
Day by day7 days · 3 cities
- Day 1
Welcome to Costa Rica!
Welcome! Please be ready to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The exact dinner reservation time will be confirmed closer to your trip date. If you are arriving today, we recommend flying into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).
Stay (one of these)1 night- Country Inn & Suites★★★Overnight in San Jose.
- Palma Real★★★Overnight in San Jose.
- Studio Hotel★★★★Overnight in San Jose.
- KC Hotel★★★Overnight in San Jose.
- Sleep Inn★★★Overnight in San Jose.
- D Sabana★★★Overnight in San Jose.
- Four Points By Sheraton San Jose★★★Overnight in San Jose
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsDinner - Day 2
La Fortuna: Volcanoes & Village Life
Wake up feeling refreshed and ready for your first full day in Costa Rica! After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you’ll leave the city behind and head into the rainforest towards La Fortuna. Along the way, you'll stop at an organic farm nestled in the hills to learn about the rural life of Costa Rica. There, you’ll enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch before continuing on to the Arenal Volcano for a hike along the lava flows from the famous 1968 eruption. After the hike, you’ll check into your hotel to freshen up, then have the evening free to relax and enjoy dinner at your leisure. For today’s activities, be sure to bring bug spray, sunscreen, a hat, hiking shoes or boots, a water bottle, and car sickness medication if needed.
- Organic Farm VisitExperience authentic Costa Rican rural life as the Elizondo Herrera family guides you on a tour of their farm. Enjoy a short 30-minute walk as you explore the farm and learn about the various plants and fruits grown there, including the iconic pineapple. Afterward, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to make homemade tortillas, before sitting down to savor a traditional lunch prepared by the Herreras.10:00· 120 min· Arenal
- Hike at Arenal VolcanoLace up your boots—it’s time to explore! You’ll cross hardened lava flows, take in panoramic views, and discover the diverse plant and animal life thriving in this National Park. There are two trails to choose from, beginner and intermediate, and your guide will select the best one based on the group's needs for the day. Trail 1 (beginner) – Distance: 1.8 mile / Elevation: 312 feet / Duration: 1-2 hours | Trail 2 (intermediate) – Distance: 3.1 miles / Elevation: 312 feet / Duration: 2-3 hours.14:00· 120 min· Arenal
- Transfer · San Jose → Organic FarmEnjoy a private transfer from San José to the Organic Farm. En route, there will be stops for restrooms as needed, with a final stop 30 minutes before reaching the farm.private · 120 min
- Transfer · Organic Farm → La FortunaContinue your journey with a private transfer to the Arenal Volcano.60 min
Stay (one of these)2 nights- Arenal Montechiari★★★Overnight in La Fortuna.
- Los Lagos Resort★★★Overnight in La Fortuna.
- Arenal Springs Resort and Spa★★★★Overnight in La Fortuna.
- Lavas Tacotal★★★Overnight in La Fortuna.
- Arenal Paraíso Hotel★★★Overnight in La Fortuna.
- Magic Mountain★★★Overnight in La Fortuna.
- Tilajari Hotel Resort★★★★Overnight in La Fortuna.
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsBreakfast - Day 3
Waterfall Wonders & Optional Thrills
This morning, you have the option to sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and explore the La Fortuna area at your own pace. For the more adventurous, you can sign up for a thrilling morning of canyoneering. If you choose not to participate in the optional canyoneering, you'll have time to explore the town and enjoy lunch on your own before rejoining the group for an afternoon visit to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall. At the waterfall, you can take a scenic walk down to the base, enjoy breathtaking views, and swim in the refreshing waters. Afterward, you'll head to a natural hot springs resort to relax in pools of varying temperatures before finishing the day with a delicious meal. Be sure to wear your swimsuit for the waterfall, and bring a towel, sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, and slip-on shoes for the hot springs.
- La Fortuna Waterfall VisitIn the afternoon, you'll enjoy a short, half-hour private transfer to the entrance of the La Fortuna Waterfall. To reach the waterfall, you'll descend 530 steps—don’t let the climb intimidate you! The stunning rainforest views and the chance to spot wildlife along the way make it well worth the effort. If the weather permits, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters at the base of the waterfall. After soaking in the breathtaking views and drying off, take your time to walk back up the steps to the entrance. There are restroom facilities at the main entrance if you'd like to change out of your wet clothes.14:00· 120 min· La Fortuna
- Natural Hot Springs ResortThis evening, unwind in natural thermal pools and jacuzzis with varying temperatures—the perfect reward after a day of waterfall adventures. Soak in the pools, with temperatures ranging from 91º F (32º C) to 105º F (41º C), and let the soothing waters relax you. After your rejuvenating soak, you’ll have time to change and enjoy an included dinner. Towels and lockers are provided for your convenience.17:00· 180 min· Arenal
MealsBreakfastDinner - Day 4
Surf Town Bound: Hello Jaco!
Say farewell to the rainforest and head to the beach! Today, you’ll enjoy a half-day transfer to Jaco, a town known for its world-class surfing beaches and abundant wildlife. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch on your own before arriving in Jaco in the mid-afternoon. After checking into your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to relax and explore at your leisure. If you’re prone to car sickness, be sure to bring your medication!
- Transfer · Arenal → Jaco BeachTake a private transfer from La Fortuna to Jaco, with stops for restrooms and snacks along the way as needed. Around noon, you'll stop at a location where your guide will suggest restaurant options for you to enjoy lunch on your own.240 min
StayCroc’s Resort & Casino★★★or similar3 nightsOvernight in Jacó.
twin occupancy
MealsBreakfast - Day 5
Kayak, Snorkel & Zipline Adventures
Wake up to the refreshing sea breeze and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Afterward, take a short transfer to begin your kayaking adventure along the Pacific Coast. If conditions are ideal, you'll also have the chance to snorkel in the calm waters and spot some incredible wildlife. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch before returning to the pick-up point. For those looking for more excitement, you can opt to add a ziplining tour and soar through the skies! The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to explore and enjoy at your leisure. Be sure to wear your swimsuit and bring a towel, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the memories.
- Sea KayakingTravel just 30 minutes to Agujas Beach, where you'll paddle in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, home to vibrant tropical fish and even groups of sea turtles. Conditions permitting, you may be able to snorkel to see the marine life up close. After working up an appetite, you'll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch. Life jackets, masks, snorkels, and paddles are provided for your convenience. Please note: kayaking has a weight limit of 275 lbs, and no prior experience is necessary.09:00· 120 min· Jaco
MealsBreakfastLunch - Day 6
Wildlife Walks or Sandy Strolls
For your last day, unwind and relax by the beach in Jaco, or, if you’d like to experience the stunning blend of rainforest and ocean, join a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. Explore the park on foot, where you’ll witness the unique beauty of both the rainforest and the beach. In the evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner with your group to cap off your adventure.
MealsBreakfastDinner - Day 7
Until Next Time!
All good things must come to an end—until your next adventure! Enjoy your final breakfast and then continue on your journey. If you're departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).
MealsBreakfast
Common questions
How does this work?
You start the trip and pick possible dates. Friends commit by putting a card on file — $0 charged today. Once 8 friends commit and ops confirms, the trip locks in and we capture a 25% deposit. If we don't hit 8 in time, every hold is released and nothing happens.
When am I actually charged?
Only if the trip locks in (8 friends commit) AND TrovaTrip ops confirms the booking. Until then your card is just authorized — no money moves. At lock-in we capture a 25% deposit; the remainder is due ~60 days before departure, same as any TrovaTrip trip.
What if we don’t get enough friends to commit?
If we don’t hit 8 commitments before the window closes, every hold is released automatically. $0 charged, the trip just doesn’t happen.
Can I cancel after I commit?
Yes — anytime before lock-in your hold is released, no questions asked. After lock-in (and once the deposit is captured), standard TrovaTrip cancellation policy applies based on how close to departure you are.
Does the price change as more friends join?
On trips with group discounts, yes — the more friends commit, the lower everyone's price. The final price is set at lock-in based on the size of the group at that moment. Everyone pays the same.
What if I want different dates than the group?
When you commit you pick which of the proposed dates work for you. If the group lands on a date you can't do, your hold is released and you're under no obligation.
Who's actually running the trip?
TrovaTrip handles all the logistics — flights, hotels, guides, on-the-ground operator (Green World Adventures for this one). We've run thousands of group trips across 80+ countries. Once your group locks in, our ops team takes over and you get a real human point of contact.
Do I need a TrovaTrip account?
To start a trip, yes — that's how we know who to coordinate with. To commit as a friend you can do it as a guest (just email + card), or sign up — whichever's easier.