Overview
This small and extraordinarily beautiful country whose great variety of habitats – rain forest, mangrove swamps, beaches, cloud forest, rivers, and so on – are home to an incredible number of species of mammals, birds, and flora (including 3000 species of orchids). Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rain forest you will experience a closeness to nature unlike any destination in the world. Luxury accommodations, exciting adventures and excellent food compliment the ultimate tropical getaway.
Quick Summary
Day 1
San Jose
Upon arrival you are met and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel.
San Jose
Costa Rica’s capital has several good museums and makes a good base for exploring the Central Valley. The Central Valley has Costa Rica’s highest volcanic peak and the beautiful turquoise lake of Poas volcano. An interesting traditional community to visit is San Antonio de Escazú famous for its annual ox cart festival.
Daily Summary
Day 2
Bajos del Toro
After a delightful breakfast, begin your road trip to El Silencio Lodge. Approx 1.5 hours.
In the afternoon, embark on the mystic hike and organic farm - a time for intention and meditation. The perfect chance to experience the cloud forest from a different and holistic perspective. Take an inspired walk through a magical knot garden, hidden paths that embrace nature’s elements and our delightful hummingbird garden.
Your Eco-Concierge will guide you through a short yet inspiring walk through the four-element trail as we focus on consciousness, happiness, and our higher purpose.
Daily Summary
Day 3
Bajos del Toro
Today, after your breakfast, enjoy a trip to Del Toro Waterfall. A challenging hike down to the base of a roaring 400-foot waterfall that sinks into an extinct volcanic crater. Enjoy the sounds of tropical birds and howler monkeys as you make your way down the steep jungle path. Take time to rest and enjoy breathtaking views from lookout points along the way.
In the afternoon enjoy the magic of your hotel.
Daily Summary
Day 4
Arenal
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, begin your road trip to Arenal Volcano Approx 3 hours driving. Private driver and vehicle.
The rest of the day you are free to enjoy the facilities of your resort.
Daily Summary
Day 5
Arenal
Arenal Canyoning, Waterfall Rapelling & Sky Trek
Highlights: Thrilling adventure and canyoning. Four waterfalls in the rainforest. Remote and unique landscape. Professional guides.
Today’s exhilarating morning experience is to rappel down a series of four waterfalls, one canyon wall, and trek on trails in pristine rainforest in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. Your guides will secure you into your safety harness and assist you as you descend through the area’s enchanting gorges and lush rainforest.
Lunch at your hotel.
This afternoon will be more fun and adrenaline! Arenal Sky Trek Zipline is a thrilling zip line circuit that’s located in Arenal-La Fortuna Costa Rica. The tour starts with guests riding an open-air gondola to an observation area, where they will take in awe-inspiring views. Guests will then begin zip lining on a track stretching across canyons and in between treetops, ultimately returning to the starting point at the main building. The trek consists of 7 zip lines which take approximately 2.5 hours to complete. The longest cable is 760 metres and the highest cable is 200 metres.
Expert tips
Bring: Multi-sport sandals or tennis shoes, change of clothes and shoes, quick dry clothing, towel.
Bring: Walking shoes, sun block, comfortable clothes, camera, raincoat optional.
Daily Summary
Day 6
Arenal
Safari Float Trip and Organic Farm
A fantastic way to enjoy and admire nature at its best is being on a river, we know that everything that lives, all animals, birds, plants, trees, and us need water, water is life! Hence a ride down the river seems to be the perfect activity to spot as much wildlife as possible while not having to do much effort, isn't it perfect
After breakfast you are met and taken on a short drive from your hotel to the river. Your guide will provide you with a helmet, life jacket and a safety talk. In spite of the precautions, this is a calm river with no rapids, you just sit on the raft and float with the current, no paddling will be required and your guide will be with you on the raft at all times.
Your guide will take care of steering the raft while teaching you how to experience a true rainforest activity. Close your eyes, listen to the sounds of the forests, the living things that are in it, then open your eyes and try to search for the animals you hear, you can find monkeys, birds of all sizes, sounds and colors, sloths, iguanas, toucans and so much more!
Continue down the river and be amazed by all the beautiful nature you will encounter. At the end of the trip some delicious, fresh, home made snacks will be provided. Later you will drive for a few minutes to reach an organic chocolate plantation and once again learn and have fun.
Return to your hotel for lunch
Daily Summary
Day 7
Gulf of Papagayo
After breakfast your private driver will take you to the Gulf of Papagayo. You will travel past beautiful mountains and also along the Pacific coast. Have your camera handy to take pictures of the beautiful landscape. The driver can make stops on the way for you to stretch your legs, use bathrooms or eat something along the way if necessary. Travel time is approximately 4 hours.
Daily Summary
Day 8
Gulf of Papagayo
Kayak Trip
After breakfast you are taken on a memorable close up and personal encounter with nature as you paddle kayaks through the rich ocean life of the area. The trip is done at an easy pace. You will receive detailed instruction on kayaking and no prior experience is necessary. All equipment is provided so all you have to bring is a sense of adventure
Return to the hotel for lunch and the rest of the day is free.
Daily Summary
Days 9 - 11
Gulf of Papagayo
El Mangroove Activities
El Mangroove takes you seamlessly from day to night, from business to pleasure, from relaxation to energizing moments that inspire. Take your pick, land or water… For sweat lovers keep up your own routine at an exotic location. El Mangroove offers private and group yoga classes upon request and a multi-functional gym that is open 24 hours. If you are inspired by the ocean take a stand up paddle session, go kayaking, go fishing, go surfing or simply go beach hopping with our on site boats. Feel like getting to know the area? Bicycles are available for guest use. Make your reservation through Concierge. All activities are payable directly.
Daily Summary
Day 12
Depart
Private transfer from your hotel to Liberia International airport. Approx 1 hour.
Daily Summary
Accommodation
| Accommodation | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica Marriott San Jose Hotel | San Jose, Costa Rica | |
| El Silencio Lodge & Spa | Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica | |
| The Springs Resort and Spa | Arenal, Costa Rica | |
| El Mangroove Hotel | Guanacaste, Costa Rica |
San Jose, Costa Rica
Costa Rica Marriott San Jose Hotel
Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica
El Silencio Lodge & Spa
Arenal, Costa Rica
The Springs Resort and Spa
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
El Mangroove Hotel
Why Maxim Safaris & Journeys
Uncommon Safaris for Discerning Adventurers
Experience Matters
Since 1993 Maxim Safaris & Journeys’ passion for exotic destinations has made us a highly sought after Boutique Tour Operator for discerning travelers. After three decades we continue to exceed our clients' expectations. Our approach over these many years is simple; offer the very best service and travel experience at the most competitive prices while balancing the importance of sustainable tourism with a high quality travel product.
Premier Guides
Maxim Safaris & Journeys' guides have a reputation for being the best in the business. Experts in their fields, friendly and interesting, a good guide will bring the most out of every excursion while creating lifelong memories.
24/7 Support
At no time during your adventure will you be alone. Our local partners are available 24/7 in the event you need any assistance while traveling. We will monitor your progress and take care of any unexpected developments so that your trip continues unhindered.
Responsible Tourism
Responsible and sustainable tourism should be more than just a phrase - it has to be an ongoing and tangible commitment to balancing tourism with the upliftment of local communities and preservation of the natural environment. Maxim Safaris & Journeys actively supports camps and lodges whose business models reflect this commitment.
Details
Price Includes
All accommodation as indicated in the itineraryAll transfers as indicated in the itinerary. All transfers are private unless otherwise indicated. Price is based on one transfer for all passengers. In the event people arrive/depart on different flights, additional transfers may be required at an extra cost.
All meals as indicated in the itinerary
Activities at lodges as indicated in the itinerary
Park fees unless specified otherwise
All tours as indicated in the itinerary. All tours are private unless otherwise indicated. Standard entrance fees included.
Internal non-scheduled charter flights (if applicable) and as indicated in the itinerary
Scheduled flights that are specified in the itinerary as being included
24/7 local assistance in all countries
Price Excludes
International and domestic scheduled flights unless indicatedInternal non-scheduled charter flight not specified in the itinerary
Gratuities
Optional activities offered by lodges and payable directly
Travel Insurance
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless specified in the itinerary
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Items of a personal nature
Laundry unless specified in the itinerary
Visa fees
Reciprocity fees where applicable
Airport departure taxes
Any items or services not specified in the itinerary
Any Covid or related testing required during the trip.
Quarantine costs due to Covid-related issues.
About Us
Since 1993, Maxim Safaris & Journeys has been dedicated to creating unforgettable journeys to some of the world's most exotic destinations. Over three decades, we’ve earned a reputation as a trusted boutique tour operator for discerning travelers, with a level of experience and personal service that is unmatched. Proudly rooted in the 21st century yet firmly committed to old-fashioned service values, we still answer the phone when you call and respond to emails without delay. Our philosophy has always been simple: deliver exceptional service and travel experiences at competitive prices, while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable tourism and high-quality programs.
I'm Paul Webster, the owner of Maxim Safaris & Journeys. Born and raised in Zimbabwe and South Africa, I spent most of my life in Africa and developed a deep passion for its extraordinary landscapes and cultures, a passion that extends to all the destinations we offer. I personally oversee every trip we design, ensuring each journey is as unique as the traveler taking it. I look forward to helping you craft your own “Uncommon Safari.”
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend getting travel insurance upon booking your trip, as unforeseen events can affect even the best-laid travel plans. Travel insurance plans can cover trip cancellation, missed connections and itinerary changes, baggage issues, emergency medical and other issues, and more.
Passport Details
For many of our itineraries (eg. Inca Trail, etc) we require your passport information to be able to complete the booking process. Please check with your travel specialist after purchasing your trip. Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six month after arrival date.
Medical
Please consult a Travel Doctor or Travel Clinic prior to departure to make sure you receive professional advice about required and recommended shots.