Costa Rica: The Osa Peninsula & Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica: The Osa Peninsula & Manuel Antonio National Park
8 Days Starting and ending in San José, Costa Rica
Visiting: San José, Irazú Volcano, Mount Chirripó, Puerto Jimenez, Corcovado National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, Manuel Antonio
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25953
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Beach Tours, Foodie and Wine Tours, Wellness Tours, Wildlife Tours
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Costa Rica's stunning landscapes with the "Costa Rica: The Osa Peninsula & Manuel Antonio National Park" tour. Begin your journey in the vibrant capital of San José before exploring the breathtaking views from Irazú Volcano and savoring farm-to-table cuisine at a wellness eco-camp. Discover the pristine wilderness of Corcovado National Park, teeming with wildlife, and relax on the idyllic beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. Enjoy guided hikes, wildlife excursions, and the serene beauty of Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems. With comfortable accommodations, including hotels and glamping, this small group adventure promises an immersive and rejuvenating experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: San José: Pura Vida
Location: San José
Accommodation: Gran Hotel Costa Rica
Accommodation Name: Gran Hotel Costa Rica
Meals Included: Dinner
Costa Rica is calling and you have answered. Dive head first into the capital bustling downtown and soak in the city's energy from the Plaza de la Cultura, centrally-located near the hotel. We welcome you to San José, and invite you to prepare for an unforgettable adventure of some of Costa Rica's best highlights and hidden gems.
Arrive to Costa Rica at any time and transfer to the hotel. Meet your fellow group members at the welcome meeting in the evening and get all the important information about the adventure ahead. Afterwards, head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious welcome dinner with new friends.
TRANSPORT: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
ACTIVITY: EVENING Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Mount Chirripó Area: The Central Highlands
Location: Irazú Volcano
Accommodation: Kinkara Luxury Retreat
Accommodation Name: Kinkara Luxury Retreat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Swap the big city energy for stunning natural beauty as you take in the breathtaking views from the walking trails at Irazú Volcano, the highest active volcano in the country. If you're extremely lucky and the skies are clear it is possible to see both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts from the top. The evening provides a respite from the hustle and bustle as you settle into a wellness eco-camp at the foot of Chirripó Mountain, an ideal place to connect with nature and with your senses.Travel from San José to the Chirripó Mountain area with a stop at Irazú Volcano before continuing to the eco-camp glamping retreat for the evening.ACTIVITY: Travel from San Jose to the lush forest of the Irazú Volcano area and go for a hike along the trails near the volcano. Make stops at viewpoints along the route for photos.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle on the transfer to Kinkará eco-camp.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 3: Mount Chirripó Area: Your Omg Day
Location: Mount Chirripó
Accommodation: Kinkara Luxury Retreat
Accommodation Name: Kinkara Luxury Retreat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Freedom and choice are the order of the day to get the most out of this incredible part of the country. The nearby Cloudbridge Nature Reserve offers hiking and wildlife-spotting opportunities while closer to camp provides a waterfall hike with a swim and yoga. Allow the landscapes, movement and environment to revitalize your body and mind.
Choose either a wildlife excursion or a waterfall hike and yoga before lunch at the eco-camp. Enjoy a free afternoon for relaxing, on-site wellness activities, or to explore the trails around the camp on foot.
ACTIVITY: Option 1: With plenty of wildlife in the area, the nearby Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is perfect for a morning excursion. Hike and explore the jungle environment searching for birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Option 2: Remain closer to camp and embark on a waterfall hike with a refreshing swim. Afterwards return to the hotel and take a relaxing yoga class. Allow the serene landscapes and flowing movement revitalize your mind and body.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Spend a free afternoon enjoying the wellness amenities and optional activities at your camp in the Mount Chirripó area.
Day 4: Puerto Jimenez: The Osa Peninsula
Location: Puerto Jimenez
Accommodation: Botanika - Curio
Accommodation Name: Hotel Botanika
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The Osa Peninsula is Costa Rica's final frontier, home to vast wilderness, wildlife and incredible diversity, and it will be our playground for the next couple of days. The journey south provides continuously changing landscapes until reaching the pristine coastal rainforest and stretches of wild ocean as far as the eye can see.
Travel south to the town of Puerto Jimenez. Take an orientation walk around town with the CEO followed by an optional walk to the nearby beach.
ACTIVITY: Head out with your CEO on an orientation walk of the area. Take in the vast wildness of the Osa Peninsula. Afterwards, opt to walk to Playa Preciosa with your CEO.
FREE TIME: Free time to lounge in paradise.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 5: Puerto Jimenez: Corcovado National Park
Location: Corcovado National Park
Accommodation: Botanika - Curio
Accommodation Name: Hotel Botanika
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Set off on an unforgettable expedition into the wilds of Corcovado National Park, a natural treasure of Costa Rica. One of the most biodiverse places on the planet, we will venture in and out by boat to head into the park on foot in search of an array of tropical birds and wildlife like toucans, monkeys and the elusive jaguar. When you hear the distinctive call, turn your eyes skyward to catch a glimpse of colourful macaws, usually flying in pairs and gleaming in the sun.
Embark on a full-day hiking and wildlife excursion into Corcovado National Park with a local naturalist guide.
ACTIVITY: Spend the day in Corcovado National Park on a hiking and wildlife-spotting excursion with a naturalist guide. Begin with a boat transfer to the entrance and look for wildlife and admire the jungle scenery in one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. After, venture back into the park on foot and look up into the trees for tropical birds. Board a boat transfer back to the hotel.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park: The Pacific Coast
Location: Manuel Antonio National Park
Accommodation: Parador Nature Resort and Spa
Accommodation Name: Parador Nature Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Beautiful beaches and small towns dot the Pacific coastline from north to south, with hidden coves and surf breaks coming into sight as you round each corner. Take in the sweeping views and hike to a waterfall before descending down to one of Costa Rica's most well-known gems at Manuel Antonio National Park.
Travel from the Osa Peninsula to Manuel Antonio National Park with a stop en route for a hike, swim and a typical rural lunch.
FREE TIME: EVENING Spend a free evening in Manuel Antonio and grab dinner on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Corcovado and Manuel Antonio. Enjoy a stop at the Santa Juana Lodge along the way.
ACTIVITY: Stop at the Santa Juana Lodge to walk the jungle trails around the property and end at a waterfall where you will have time to go for a swim. Enjoy a delicious typical Costa Rican lunch at the lodge with views over the tropical mountain jungle landscape and the Pacific coastline before continuing on to Manuel Antonio.
Day 7: Manuel Antonio National Park: Wildlife And Beaches
Location: Manuel Antonio
Accommodation: Parador Nature Resort and Spa
Accommodation Name: Parador Nature Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wildlife, birds and natural beauty abound as you head into Manuel Antonio National Park to walk the coastal jungle trails. Embrace the slower pace like the resident sloths of the forest to appreciate the lush environment packed with wildlife before settling on one of the park's idyllic beaches for a swim.
Take a half-day excursion into Manuel Antonio National Park with a naturalist guide. Free afternoon for relaxing at the beach and optional activities before a farewell dinner in the evening.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Free afternoon for optional activities in the Manuel Antonio area.
ACTIVITY: Pack your sunscreen, snack, beach shoes, and prepare for a great day in Costa Rica’s smallest yet no less stunning national park. Manual Antonio offers four white-sand beaches, separated by jagged rock outcrops and tidal pools. Swim, snorkel, surf, and sunbathe. When you’re all beached out, head to the shade of the nearby hiking trails to search for sloths, monkeys, and armadillos. Climb to the lookout to capture views of the pristine Pacific Ocean and the area’s off-shore islands.
Day 8: San José
Location: San José
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave the coast behind and relive the memories on the return to San Jose and on the onward travels home.
Two departure shuttles will be provided from the Manuel Antonio hotel directly to the San José airport, where the tour ends on arrival.
Additional Information: Please note: Departing flights should be booked no earlier than 3pm.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Welcome Moment
Meet Your CEO and Group
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OMG Day
Wildlife Excursion or Waterfall Hike & Yoga, Chirripó
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Foodie Moment
Santa Juana Lodge Visit & Lunch
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Arrival Transfer
Complimentary arrival transfer
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Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a welcome dinner
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Irazú Volcano
Visit the viewpoints and walking trails of Irazú Volcano
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Puerto Jimenez Orientation
Orientation walk of Puerto Jimenez and walk to Playa Preciosa
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Corcovado National Park
Full-day hiking and wildlife expedition into Corcovado National Park with a naturalist guide
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Waterfall Walk
Walk to a waterfall and have a traditional rural lunch at a mountain reserve
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Manuel Antonio National Park
Half-day excursion into Manuel Antonio National Park with a naturalist guide
What's Not Included
Meals FlexibilityGenerally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options
Accommodation
Hotels (5 nts), Permanent glamping tent with shared facilities (2 nts).
Transport
Private vehicle, boat, walking.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is affordable. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Mode of Transport
Private vehicle, boat, walking.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12
Important Notes
Costa Rica will not be allowing anyone to enter the country without proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.). If you are travelling through a few countries in Central America, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination. Please print the itinerary and voucher and bring it with you.
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying and handling your own luggage.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes stays in hotels for 5 nights and in a permanent glamping tent with shared facilities for 2 nights.
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What activities are included in the Corcovado National Park visit?
The visit to Corcovado National Park includes a full-day hiking and wildlife expedition with a naturalist guide. You will travel by boat to the park entrance and then explore the park on foot, looking for tropical birds and wildlife.
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Are there any wellness activities included in the tour?
Yes, on Day 3, you can choose between a wildlife excursion or a waterfall hike and yoga session. Additionally, the eco-camp at the foot of Chirripó Mountain offers on-site wellness activities.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. Meals are provided at various points throughout the tour, including a welcome dinner, a traditional rural lunch, and a farewell dinner.
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What transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses private vehicles for transportation between destinations and to/from included activities. There are also boat transfers for specific activities, such as the visit to Corcovado National Park.
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Is there a welcome meeting at the start of the tour?
Yes, there is a welcome meeting on the first evening in San José where you will meet your CEO and fellow group members. Important information about the adventure ahead will be provided, followed by a welcome dinner.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 16 people, with an average group size of 12.
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Are tips included in the tour price?
All tips for activities and meals are included in the tour price, except for tips for the CEO and porterage.
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What should I expect during the visit to Manuel Antonio National Park?
During the visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, you will take a half-day excursion with a naturalist guide to walk the coastal jungle trails and spot wildlife. The afternoon is free for relaxing at the beach or participating in optional activities.
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Is there a departure transfer included at the end of the tour?
Yes, two departure shuttles will be provided from the Manuel Antonio hotel directly to the San José airport, where the tour ends on arrival.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
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