Heredia • Lankester Botanical Garden • Los Quetzales National Park • Sarapiquí • Arenal Volcano • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Experience the breathtaking biodiversity of Costa Rica on this unforgettable botanical journey through cloud forests, volcanic landscapes, and tropical rainforests. From the orchid collections of Lankester Botanical Garden to the misty beauty of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the dramatic scenery of Arenal Volcano, discover extraordinary plant life, rich ecosystems, and stunning natural wonders at every turn. With guided nature experiences, scenic transfers, and handpicked lodges, this private tour offers the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and immersive eco-adventure.
Day 1: San Jos | Arrival & Botanical Introduction
Flight from London Heathrow Airport to San Jose Juan Santamaria International Via Houston George Bush Intercontinental
Meet & greet at Juan Santamara International Airport, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in Heredia. Located in the Central Valley, this region offers a mild climate and fertile lands, ideal for the development of a wide variety of plant species. Upon arrival at your hotel, enjoy the beautifully maintained botanical gardens, home to a diverse collection of tropical plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and native trees. This first contact provides a gentle introduction to Costa Rica's extraordinary biodiversity.
Overnight in Heredia.
Day 2: Central Valley to Highlands | Orchids & Mountain Ecosystems
Departure towards the Talamanca mountain range, one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the country. En route, visit Lankester Botanical Garden, internationally recognised for its extensive collection of orchids and its role in tropical botanical research. Here, you will observe a remarkable variety of species, along with other epiphytes such as bromeliads and ferns, thriving in carefully curated environments. The journey continues through scenic mountain roads, passing agricultural landscapes and ascending into cooler climates. Arrival in San Gerardo de Dota, a secluded valley surrounded by cloud forest.
Overnight in Dota.
Day 3: San Gerardo de Dota | High-Altitude Flora & Pramo Ecosystem
Explore the unique highland ecosystems of Los Quetzales National Park, where altitude and climate create a completely different botanical environment compared to the lowlands. Guided walks focus on native plant species, mosses, lichens, and high-altitude vegetation, including pramo ecosystems found only in limited regions of Central America. The dense cloud forest is rich in epiphytes, with trees covered in orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. This region is also known for its pristine rivers and untouched landscapes, offering a deep connection with nature. Afternoon at leisure to further explore the surroundings or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the reserve.
Overnight in Dota.
Day 4: Highlands to Caribbean Lowlands | Transition of Ecosystems
Transfer from the cool highlands to the warm and humid lowlands of Sarapiqu, experiencing a dramatic transition in ecosystems along the way. As you descend, the vegetation changes rapidly from cloud forest to dense tropical rainforest, highlighting Costa Rica's ecological diversity within short distances. Arrival at your lodge, located within a private rainforest reserve. The area is characterised by lush vegetation, towering trees, and an abundance of tropical plants such as heliconias, palms, and flowering understory species. Afternoon at leisure to explore the gardens and trails surrounding the lodge.
Overnight in Sarapiqu.
Day 5: Sarapiqu | Rainforest Immersion & River Exploration
Begin the day with a boat tour along the Sarapiqu River, offering a unique perspective of the rainforest ecosystem. From the water, observe the dense vegetation lining the riverbanks, including large tropical trees and aquatic plant life. Later, enjoy a guided walk through the rainforest trails, focusing on plant diversity and ecological interactions. This region is particularly rich in heliconias, gingers, and other flowering plants, as well as a wide variety of epiphytes growing on tree trunks and branches. Sarapiqu is also known as a centre for biological research, making it an ideal location for understanding tropical ecosystems in depth.
Overnight in Sarapiqu.
Day 6: Sarapiqu to Arenal | Volcano & Regenerative Landscapes
Transfer to the Arenal region, dominated by the iconic Arenal Volcano. This area showcases a mix of primary and secondary rainforest, shaped by past volcanic activity. The fertile volcanic soil contributes to the rapid growth of vegetation, creating vibrant landscapes rich in plant life. Arrival at your hotel, set within a private reserve surrounded by gardens and tropical forest, often with views of the volcano. Afternoon at leisure to relax or enjoy the optional hot springs, naturally heated by geothermal activity.
Overnight in Arenal.
Day 7: Arenal | Tropical Flora & Pollinators
Visit a local ecological park and butterfly garden, where you will gain insight into the relationship between plants and pollinators in tropical ecosystems. Observe a variety of flowering plants specifically cultivated to attract butterflies, along with educational exhibits explaining life cycles and ecological importance. The gardens also feature a wide range of tropical species, offering excellent opportunities to study plant diversity in a controlled environment. Afternoon free to explore additional trails, relax, or enjoy optional activities in the area.
Overnight in Arenal.
Day 8: Arenal to Monteverde | Scenic Lake Crossing & Cloud Forest
Transfer to Monteverde via the scenic lake crossing, combining boat and land transportation. This journey offers spectacular views of Lake Arenal and the surrounding landscapes before ascending once again into higher elevations. Monteverde is one of the most important cloud forest regions in the world, characterised by constant humidity, mist, and dense vegetation. These conditions
create an ideal environment for epiphytes, orchids, mosses, and ferns. Arrival and check-in at your hotel, surrounded by lush gardens and forest.
Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 9: Monteverde | Cloud Forest & Orchid Diversity
Guided visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, one of Costa Rica's most iconic protected areas. Explore well-maintained trails through dense forest, where trees are covered in layers of vegetation. The constant moisture supports an incredible diversity of plant life, particularly epiphytes such as orchids, bromeliads, and mosses. Later, visit a specialised orchid garden to discover the extraordinary variety of orchid species found in Costa Rica, one of the highest concentrations in the world. Learn about their adaptations, pollination strategies, and ecological importance.
Overnight in Monteverde.
Day 10: Departure | Return to San José
Transfer from Monteverde to Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Departure with a deep appreciation of Costa Rica's botanical richness and diverse ecosystems.
What is included in the offer
• International & Domestic flights with 23kgs baggage
• 1 night stay at Hotel Bougainvillaea, with bed & breakfast
• 2 nights' stay at Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa, with bed & breakfast
• Visit Lankester Botanical Garden, internationally recognised for its extensive collection of orchids and its role in tropical botanical research
• 2 nights stay at Selva Verde Lodge & Rainforest Reserve, with bed & breakfast
• Los Quetzales National Park
• Boat tour along the Sarapiquí River
• 2 nights stay at Lomas del Volcán, with bed & breakfast
• Volcano & Regenerative Landscapes
• Ecological park and butterfly garden
• 2 nights stay at Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco, with bed & breakfast
• Scenic Lake Crossing
• Visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
• Private transfers throughout the service
Prices & Departures:
Total Price Inclusive of All Charges:
• C05219 Birmingham from £4289pp
• C05192 Dublin from £5175pp
• C05225 Newcastle from £5225pp
• C05209 Glasgow from £5355pp
• C05074 Heathrow from £5449pp
• C05201 Manchester from £5465pp
Deposit: £550pp
No Local Fees Payable
Terms & Conditions:
Based on 2 adults sharing
Meal Plans
- Bed & Breakfast