Off the beaten 2: The Tapir Trail

Off the beaten 2: The Tapir Trail

0 Reviews
Prices Start At $1099
Next Tour October 29, 2026 12:00 am
5

Off the beaten 2: The Tapir Trail

Off the beaten 2: The Tapir Trail

0 Reviews
Prices Start At $1099
Next Tour October 29, 2026 12:00 am
Nosara, Costa Rica
7 Days 6 Nights
$1099
San Jose - Rio Celeste - Nosara
0-99+
20/20
Tickets

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Overview

Experience Costa Rica on a 7-day self-drive tour through lush jungles, vibrant wildlife, and stunning beaches. Visit Braulio Carrillo, Boca Tapada, Río Celeste, and Nosara. Perfect for adventure, nature, and relaxation. Explore Costa Rica’s top destinations at your own pace.

Included / Exclude

  • Breakfast
  • Car Rental Service
  • Celeste Mountain Lodge or similar in standard room
  • Entrance fee to Maquenque hotel trails and canoe
  • Entrance fee to Tapirus Lodge trails, serpentarium, Orchid gardens and hanging bridge
  • Guided night walk in the Tapir Valley rainforest
  • Guided walk to Rio Celeste and Volcan Tenorio National Park
  • Lagarta Lodge or Similar, in Jungle room
  • Maquenque Eco Lodge or similar, in Bungalow
  • Rental car with basic coverage
  • Safari float tour in Tres Amigos River
  • Tapirus Lodge or Similar, Superior room

Planned Activities

  • Guided walk to Rio Celeste
  • SaFari 3 Amigos River

Places You'll See :

1. San Jose
2. Braulio Carrillo
3. Boca Tapada
4. Tenorio National Park
5. Nosara

Location

Daily Schedule

Arrival Day Arrival in San José and travel to Braulio Carrillo National Park

Upon arrival at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) and completing arrival procedures, follow the signs to the exit, where you’ll be met for a transfer to the car rental office. After picking up your rental car, enjoy a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Tapirus Lodge, located within the lush Braulio Carrillo National Park.

Daily Itinerary Explore Braulio Carrillo and Travel to Boca Tapada

Begin your day with an early hike in Braulio Carrillo National Park. Tapirus Lodge, nestled in the heart of the park, offers trails teeming with wildlife, including the chance to spot the elusive Baird’s tapir. Take time to explore the orchid gardens and herpetarium for a rich nature experience. In the afternoon, 2 hours’ drive to Boca Tapada for your next adventure.

Daily Itinerary Safari Float Tour on the Tres Amigos River

Get closer to wildlife on a Safari by Raft at Maquenque Eco Lodge, floating down the rainforest-lined Tres Amigos River. With a naturalist guide, you’ll learn about the region's incredible biodiversity and may spot animals like crocodiles, iguanas, monkeys, waterfowl, and luckily might spot the king vulture. This 4-hour tour offers both a tranquil paddle and captivating insights into the local flora and fauna.

Daily Itinerary Travel to Tenorio Volcano National Park

After breakfast, drive to Celeste Mountain Lodge, a hotel near Tenorio Volcano National Park. This area, with its tropical forest landscape, rivers, and waterfalls, is home to the stunning Río Celeste Waterfall, famous for its turquoise waters. In the evening, join the Tapir Valley Jungle Night Tour, departing from Tapir Valley Nature Reserve’s reception area. As dusk falls, you’ll hike with an expert guide, discovering the unique sights and sounds of the forest after dark.

Daily Itinerary Tenorio Volcano and Transfer to Nosara

Start the morning with a guided tour at Tenorio Volcano National Park. This 7-kilometer trail, best for those in good physical condition, leads to remarkable sights including the famous blue waterfall, blue lagoon and "Los Teñideros" where Río Celeste gains its blue color. After the tour, you can opt for lunch at a local restaurant before start travelling to Nosara, a coastal gem known for its pristine beaches and world-class surfing. For wildlife lovers, Nosara Biological Reserve offers opportunities to spot monkeys, turtles, and other local wildlife. Your accommodation for the night is Lagarta Lodge, an eco-lodge perched on a bluff with breathtaking views of the Nicoya Peninsula.

Daily Itinerary Relax and Explore Nosara

Today is yours to enjoy as you wish! Spend a relaxing day on the Nosara Beach, exploring the area at your own pace. Nosara offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, some things to do in Nosara are surfing, wildlife watching, or simply unwinding in paradise.

Final Day Departure

On your final day, bid farewell to Nosara and begin your scenic drive back to San José. The journey takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, so plan to allow plenty of time for a comfortable trip with stops along the way. Upon reaching San José, return your rental car at the car rental office near Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). After completing the car return, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departing flight.

FAQ

Can we swim in the Río Celeste Waterfall?

No, swimming is  not allowed in the Río Celeste Waterfall itself. The area is protected as part of  Tenorio Volcano National Park, and swimming is prohibited to preserve the delicate ecosystem and ensure visitor safety due to strong currents and slippery rocks.

However, you can swim in designated areas outside the national park where the river flows—these spots are usually downstream and accessible with a guide or local recommendation.

Are there any physical fitness requirements for the hikes?

Yes, there are physical fitness considerations for hiking the Río Celeste trail in Tenorio Volcano National Park. The hike is generally rated as and is suitable for individuals with a reasonable level of fitness.

Is Nosara safe for surfing beginners?

Yes, Nosara is generally safe for surfing beginners, Playa Guiones, which is known for its consistent, gentle waves and long sandy beach—ideal conditions for learning.

How much time should we allow for the drive from Nosara to San José on the final day?

You should allow at least 5.5 to 6.5 hours to drive from Nosara to San José, depending on traffic and road conditions. It's best to leave early in the morning to avoid delays, especially if you have a flight to catch. Always plan some extra time for stops, construction, or unexpected situations along the way.

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