Costa Rica: best of Guanacaste & the Nicoya Peninsula

Liberia - Rincón De La Vieja

Day 1: Welcome to Costa Rica

Land at Liberia International Airport in Costa Rica's Guanacaste province, where you'll pick up your rental car and begin your epic adventure. Drive to Rincón de la Vieja, where you'll have time to settle into your accommodation and soak up the scenic beauty that surrounds you. Known for its sprawling national park and impressive volcanic features, this area is perfect for kick-starting your Costa Rican journey on a high note.

Rincón De La Vieja

Day 2: Volcanic wonders & wildlife

Spend the day discovering the wonders of Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you can explore not just one but two volcanoes, more than 30 rivers and streams, and an incredible array of wildlife - amidst the lush tropical rainforest setting, keep an eye out for pumas, sloths, tapirs and jaguars, alongside a striking variety of bird species. You can spend your time uncovering the park's gems however you wish: lace up your boots to walk its hiking trails and visit dynamic waterfalls, and perhaps even bring your swimwear along to enjoy a refreshing dip. Return your accommodation afterwards for a relaxing overnight stay.

Rincón De La Vieja - Sámara - Nosara

Day 3: Sink into coastal village bliss

Today, take a scenic drive to the coastal villages of Sámara and Nosara, where you'll have plenty of time to kick back, unwind amidst the cool coastal atmosphere, and enjoy some beach exploration. Head to your accommodation for check-in and an overnight stay.

Sámara - Isla Chora - Sámara

Day 4: Scenic island & underwater exploration

Today, prepare for an unforgettable excursion to Isla Chora: you'll set out on a day trip filled with kayaking, snorkelling, island exploration and marine discoveries. The views from your kayak will be nothing short of spectacular, while the underwater world is beautiful and unique - as you snorkel in clear waters around the island's reefs, look out for starfish, sea snakes, myriad fish in all colours, and perhaps even sea turtles.

Sámara

Day 5: At leisure on the sands of Sámara

Spend a leisurely day on the soft sands of Sámara Beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying water activities. You'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants nearby, for when you start feeling peckish. Later on, embark on a fascinating tour of the local mangroves, exploring their rich biodiversity, before returning to your accommodation for an overnight stay.

Sámara - Isla Chiquita

Day 6: Journey to paradise

Today, pack your bags and drive on to Isla Chiquita, known for its stunning surroundings and unique experiences. You'll feel very much on cloud nine here: soak up the island's laid-back atmosphere as you find yourself at one with nature, and take plenty of time to snooze on the beach.

Isla Chiquita

Day 7: A mesmerising night on Isla Chiquita

Spend the day at leisure, sunbathing and catching up on your favourite read. As night falls on Isla Chiquita, you might get to experience the mesmerising glow of bioluminescence during a captivating nighttime boat tour around the island. This will certainly be one of the highlights of your trip, so take the time to truly enjoy this unique and enchanting natural phenomenon beneath the starlit sky.

Isla Chiquita - San Jose

Day 8: Uncover the secrets of San José

Bid farewell to island paradise, as you pack up and drive to San José for your final night in Costa Rica. The vibrant capital has much to offer in the way of rich food, nightlife, entertainment and history, and you'll want to uncover it all before retreating to your accommodation for an overnight stay. Indulge in some must-try Costa Rican cuisine, such as gallo pinto (rice and beans), picadillos (vegetable hash) and flavour-packed ceviche, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Museo Nacional, Plaza de la Cultura, and elegant national theatre.

San Jose

Day 9: Goodbye, Costa Rica!

Your trip comes to an end today: drive to Juan Santamaría International Airport, where you'll return your rental car and set off on your onward journey.