Costa Rica Guided Tours & Trips
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10 best fully guided Costa Rica tour packages
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SteffCosta Rica travel expert at TourRadar
- Highlights of Costa Rica + Beach Extension
- Costa Rica Experience
- Classic Costa Rica
- Journeys: Explore Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys
- Volcanoes Adventure in Costa Rica
- Discover Costa Rica
- Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes (8 Days)
- Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Zip-Lines
- Costa Rica: Beaches, Wildlife & Wild Times
- Wellness Costa Rica
Highlights of Costa Rica + Beach Extension
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was a great holiday and I'd highly recommend it.”
Elaine, traveled in December
Wildlife thrives along Penas Blancas River, while Monteverde Cloud Forest comes alive during night walks. Traditional crafts demonstrations by local artist Don William in Sarchi complement nature trails in Manuel Antonio, all with expert interpretation.
Duration 10 days Destinations San Jose, Sarchi, Grecia, Poas Volcano National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio National Park Age Range 16 to 85 year olds Operator Explore! From $2,630
17% Off- US$2,170You save $460
Costa Rica Experience
32 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was great in that it covered off hightlights of Costa Rica I was not exposed to before.”
Sandra, traveled in March
Seasoned guides showcase Costa Rica's highlights - from Monteverde Cloud Forest to Manuel Antonio National Park. The journey features wildlife spotting, cloud forest walks, and cultural experiences like cooking classes in Quepos.
Duration 9 days Destinations San Jose, Santa Rosa de Pocosol, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Quepos, Manuel Antonio National Park Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel From $1,645
15% Off- US$1,398You save $247
Classic Costa Rica
55 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We saw so much and experienced so much.”
Margaret, traveled in March
Knowledgeable guides take visitors through Tortuguero's canals, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio National Park. Cultural experiences with the Maleku community and wildlife spotting enhance multiple ecosystem visits.
Duration 15 days Destinations San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Santa Rosa de Pocosol, Tenorio Volcano National Park, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio National Park Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel From $2,630
10% Off- US$2,367You save $263
Journeys: Explore Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys
21 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“First National Geographic tour, I think for the price it was good, classic tour I'd have said excellent.”
Malia, traveled in November
Professional guides lead tours through Tortuguero's waterways, Santa Elena Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio National Park. Local experts enhance visits to Sea Turtle Conservancy and Monteverde Institute across 8 distinct locations.
Duration 14 days Destinations San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, Santa Elena, Manuel Antonio National Park Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures From $3,349
25% Off- US$2,512You save $837
Volcanoes Adventure in Costa Rica
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Green World was awesome!”
James, traveled in April
Skilled Costa Rican guides accompany each activity, from Irazu's volcanic peak to Arenal's forest trails. Naturalists enhance wildlife viewing at Las Pailas, while specialized guides offer expertise at Doka Coffee Estate and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
Duration 9 days Destinations San Jose, Orosi, Irazu Volcano National Park, Cartago, Arenal, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Poas Volcano National Park Age Range up to 75 year olds Operated in English, Spanish Operator Green World Adventures From
25% Off- US$2,305
Discover Costa Rica
109 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A great overall and varied introduction to an amazing country. Go! You will not be disappointed.”
Simon, traveled in May
Seasoned naturalist guides highlight Costa Rica's biodiversity. Key destinations include Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano, and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve with expert interpretation. Distinctive lodges serve as bases for wildlife observation.
Duration 15 days Destinations San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, Santa Elena, Manuel Antonio National Park, Piedras Blancas, San Isidro de El General, Los Quetzales National Park Age Range 16 to 99 year olds Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $4,498
3% Off- US$4,350You save $148
Expert guides lead immersive experiences through Costa Rica's biodiversity - from morning wildlife cruises in Tortuguero to volcanic hikes in Arenal. Professional Travel Director ensures seamless navigation between locations while sharing cultural and natural history insights.
Duration 8 days Destinations San Jose, Braulio Carillo National Park, Tortuguero National Park, Sarapiquí, Arenal, Manuel Antonio National Park Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Trafalgar From $2,900
10% Off- US$2,610You save $290
Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Zip-Lines
72 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was a great way to meet new people, while exploring the world. Sharing experiences with likeminded travellers creates a bond that is unmatched.”
Brittany, traveled in April
Knowledgeable CEOs showcase Costa Rica's highlights, sharing cultural insights at Mi Cafecito cooperative and leading walks in La Fortuna and Monteverde. Professional guidance includes Poas Volcano visits and cloud forest zip-lining adventures.
Duration 6 days Destinations San Jose, La Fortuna, Arenal, Monteverde Age Range 18 to 35 year olds Operator G Adventures From $549
15% Off- US$467You save $82
Costa Rica: Beaches, Wildlife & Wild Times
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everyone was so kind and would go out of their way to make sure everyone felt included.”
Sahar, traveled in January
Knowledgeable CEO guides take you through Costa Rica's gems, from Poza Los Coyotes' hidden pools to Guaitil's pottery workshops. Professional surf instruction at Playa Tamarindo and guided tours of Playa Guiones earn perfect 5/5 guide ratings.
Duration 6 days Destinations Liberia, Nosara, Playa Tamarindo Age Range 18 to 35 year olds Operator G Adventures From
15% Off- US$599
Wellness Costa Rica
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tours were awesome, the guides and instructors were great and the CEO was top notch!”
Jessica, traveled in May
Skilled CEOs guide visitors through Mi Cafecito Coffee Plantation tours, volcanic mud experiences at Rincón de la Vieja, and yoga sessions near Arenal Volcano. Activities include guided paddleboarding on Lake Arenal and surf lessons at Playa Carrillo.
Duration 8 days Destinations San Jose, La Fortuna, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Carrillo Age Range 12 to 70 year olds Operator G Adventures From $1,999
15% Off- US$1,699You save $299
What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Costa Rica
- Costa Rica Experience
I thought this trip was fantastic and was one of the best of my life. I felt we got a great overview of much of the country and a good feel for the culture and people as well as the sights. Brian was an incredible leader. The pace was perfect and we did so many great things and saw so much wildlife. The homestay was definitely a highlight and exceeded my expectations. Our group was small and diverse and friendly and awesome. I really can't say enough good things about this trip. It was my first with intrepid and I can't wait for my next one with them.
- Classic Costa Rica
If you are considering a trip to Costa Rica - this is the trip to take. Costa Rica is such an incredible destination for first-time adventurers and this itinerary really covers it all. Our guide, Allan, was great at pointing us in the right direction for local eats and we were able to take in the full world of adventure Costa Rica has to offer, from ziplining in Monteverde to canyoning in La Fortuna. I would go back in a heartbeat and recommend this trip to anyone!
- Journeys: Explore Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys
Great tour. Good accommodation and transport. A good mix of activities in the tour. An overall great trip.
What our customers ask about Costa Rica Guided Tours & Trips
What kind of accommodations can I expect on a fully guided tour in Costa Rica?
Accommodations on Costa Rica guided tours range from well-appointed hotels to atmospheric eco-lodges. Travelers often stay at places like Volcano Lodge in La Fortuna which offers direct views of Arenal Volcano or Pachira Lodge which sits on a 34-acre property next to Tortuguero National Park. A TourRadar traveler noted "The setting and gardens particularly at Volcano Lodge and Cristal Ballena were really beautiful." Most properties maintain 3-4 star standards with standard amenities though eco-lodges in remote areas may offer a more natural but comfortable experience.
What's included in terms of meals on fully guided Costa Rica tours?
The tours typically cover daily breakfast and select other meals at vetted locations. Tortuguero's Laguna Lodge provides all meals featuring local ingredients and cooking styles. In La Fortuna guides often connect travelers with local families for authentic home-cooked meals. According to one TourRadar guest: "Our guide at El Establo Mountain Hotel in Monteverde introduced us to amazing local restaurants we would never have found on our own with authentic Costa Rican flavors."
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see with a guide in Costa Rica?
Knowledgeable guides significantly increase wildlife spotting opportunities throughout Costa Rica. Tortuguero National Park offers sightings of howler monkeys toucans and nesting sea turtles (July-October). Guides in Monteverde Cloud Forest expertly track the elusive quetzal bird hummingbirds and sloths. Manuel Antonio visitors often encounter white-faced capuchin monkeys three-toed sloths and scarlet macaws. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Our guide had an incredible ability to spot wildlife - we saw sloths toucans poison dart frogs and so many species we would have missed on our own at the Arenal floating safari."
What's the best time of year for a guided tour in Costa Rica?
The dry season from December through April provides reliable weather conditions and clear wildlife viewing. The green season (May-November) brings fewer tourists and vibrant vegetation. Specific experiences have optimal timing: turtle nesting in Tortuguero peaks July through October while Arenal volcano views are clearest December through March. One traveler reported: "We went in February and had perfect weather for all activities - from hiking in Arenal to beach time in Manuel Antonio."
How do guides enhance cultural experiences on Costa Rica tours?
Local guides open doors to authentic cultural encounters through their community connections. They explain traditional coffee production at places like Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative and arrange tortilla-making sessions in La Fortuna homes. A TourRadar participant shared: "Our guide brought us to his favorite local sodas (restaurants) in Monteverde and introduced us to traditional dishes explaining their cultural significance. He made us feel like we were experiencing the real Costa Rica."
How much free time is typically available during fully guided tours in Costa Rica?
Tours balance structured activities with 2-3 hours of daily free time plus occasional full free afternoons. In La Fortuna morning volcano tours might be followed by free time for hot springs or town exploration. Manuel Antonio often reserves afternoons for independent activities after guided morning hikes. As one traveler noted "The balance was perfect - we had organized activities but also plenty of time to explore restaurants in Tamarindo or relax at Playa Santa Teresa on our own."
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