Contiki

Age 27-35

• 5 Breakfast (B)
• 1 Dinner (D)

• Tortuguero National Park: Flexibility is key when you’re travelling in Costa Rica. The itinerary will give you a good idea of what your trip is gonna look like. But routes, schedules, hotels & modes of transportation may be subject to change without prior notice because of local circumstances or events beyond Contiki’s control. 
• Mexico City: You’ll now book and pay for your Free Time Add-Ons through WeTravel — a simple website link where you can browse all the FTAs, pick what you’re keen on, and pay directly by card, in any currency. You’ll get the link in your Welcome Email, usually 3–5 days before your trip starts. Once you’re in, it’s easy: check out the pics, descriptions and prices, add your chosen experiences to your cart, then check out online. You can book before your trip starts or while you’re on the road, up until each activity’s booking deadline.Missed the link? No stress. Your Trip Manager can share it with you on trip too.
• Iguazú Falls: You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).  
• Iguazú Falls: You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill. 
• San Isidro: Yup, Costa Rican cities have lots of ATMs (just be wary of those sneaky fees). But in more rural places you’re better off carrying cash.
• Iguazú Falls: Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you’ll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant. 
• Tortuguero National Park: Costa Rica’s tropical climate has two seasons: dry and rainy (or “green,” as locals say). Microclimates vary, but temperatures stay between 70–80°F year-round. Higher elevations dip to 50°F, while Pacific beaches can hit nearly 100°F. With no Daylight-Saving Time, expect sunrises around 5 AM, and sunsets by 6 PM! 
• Lake Arenal: Please check the latest travel info from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if you’re travelling to Costa Rica. We also recommend that you consult your local health clinic or doctor for more details.
• Iguazú Falls: Drinking tap water isn’t recommend. So, please stick to bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water during the trip. 
• You can bring 1 hand luggage + 1 suitcase or backpack per person.
  The maximum suitcase size is 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) & weight of 20kg (44lbs). Remember to keep it light as you’ll have to carry and lift your own luggage at times and even walk short distances with it. 
• Iguazú Falls: Most places use similar plugs to the US and Europe, but it’s a good idea to bring a circular two-prong adapter just in case. No voltage converter is needed for devices like phones and laptops, but you may need one for high-powered devices (e.g., hairdryers).
• Buenos Aires: Pack light, but smart. Think: layers for all types of weather, comfy walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a daypack, any meds, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and even a circular two-prong power adapter. Don’t worry tho, your Trip Manager will send a full list of things you should pack before your trip starts. 
• Lima:

  Safety: You’ll stay in expert-picked areas that are safe and convenient. While you’re on your own, it’s best to stick to safe areas, follow your gut & of course, use your common sense (avoid dark alleys, don’t leave valuables unattended, use crosswalks). 

  Water & Food: It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in any of these countries. Stick to bottled water (even for brushing your teeth!). You’ll have plenty of opportunities to purchase them on your trip. 

  Toilets: We’ll make a service stop along the way where you can use a toilet. But remember to toss used toilet paper in the trash, not the toilet (don’t wanna clog it up!) 

  WiFi/Cell Service: WiFi is available at most accommodations and restaurants, but it can be slow. It’s best to check with your phone provider about international plans. 

• Arenal: Grab your camera, as you’re about to experience a live (and very photogenic) volcano in the Costa Rican rainforest. 
• Insta-op! Trek around the jungle and admire this sparkling tower of water. Then cool off with a dip in the pool.
• Wanna do your bit to help the planet while out on the road? This is your chance to help support the local ecosystem. As you work, you’ll learn all about the local trees, and the benefits that replanting them has for the ecosystem and the wildlife that lives here.

Take in views of Arenal Volcano, the striking cone rising above the rainforest near La Fortuna. Bring your camera for a closer look at one of Costa Rica’s most recognisable natural landmarks.

Arenal’s slopes are green with tropical vegetation, while geothermal activity beneath the region feeds its celebrated hot springs. The volcano’s near-symmetrical profile makes the view especially distinctive, even when clouds drift across its summit.

Plant a tree near Monteverde and give it a name as part of a hands-on forest regeneration experience. Learn about the local trees while contributing to efforts to protect the ecosystem.

Monteverde’s misty forests support a rich variety of wildlife. Replanting native trees helps restore habitat and offers a tangible way to engage with the conservation work that matters to this mountain community.

Walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, keeping your camera ready for wildlife among the tropical trees. The park brings rainforest and Pacific shoreline remarkably close together, with walking routes that reveal both dense greenery and coastal scenery.

Look out for creatures such as monkeys and sloths, while remembering that sightings depend on the wildlife. This protected landscape is prized for its biodiversity and for the contrast between forest canopy and pale-sand beaches.

Rappel into a rainforest canyon in the Arenal region for an active encounter with Costa Rica’s tropical landscape. Descend through a setting of steep rock, greenery and rushing water rather than viewing the forest from a distance.

This option offers a more physical way to experience the area beyond its volcano views. It is at additional cost and bookable on tour, making it a choice for travellers keen to add a canyon adventure.

Soak in geothermal hot springs in the Arenal region, where naturally heated water offers a gentler way to experience the volcanic landscape. Settle into the warmth and take in the tropical surroundings at an unhurried pace.

The springs are a distinctive expression of the heat beneath this part of Costa Rica. This relaxing experience is at additional cost and bookable on tour; the itinerary does not specify a particular hot-springs venue.

Cruise the Pacific coast by catamaran from Tamarindo for a view of the shoreline from the water. Enjoy the open-air setting and the contrast between the blue sea and Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast.

This optional outing offers a different perspective from a day on the sand or in the surf. The cruise is at additional cost and bookable on tour; specific stops and onboard inclusions are not detailed in the itinerary.

Walk Monteverde’s hanging bridges for an elevated view into the cloud forest. Move at your own pace above the forest floor, taking in layers of greenery and the mist that often gathers among the trees.

The bridges offer a quieter alternative to ziplining while still bringing you close to the canopy. This forest-walk option is at additional cost and bookable on tour, giving you a way to explore Monteverde’s mountain environment on foot.

Walk through the jungle to a waterfall, with time to admire the cascade and photograph its lush surroundings. Cool off with a dip in the pool beneath the falling water.

The experience brings together two of Costa Rica’s defining pleasures: exploring tropical forest on foot and finding a refreshing place to swim. Listen for the rush of water as the path opens onto the falls.

Visit a local chocolate farm for a taste of Costa Rica’s cacao-growing culture. The itinerary offers a farm visit in the Arenal or Tamarindo area, with an opportunity to discover a sweeter side of the destination and enjoy some chocolate.

Cacao has deep roots in Central America, and a farm setting connects the finished treat with the plant and people behind it. This experience is at additional cost and bookable on tour.

Snorkel off Tamarindo and look for marine life beneath the surface of Costa Rica’s Pacific waters. It is a chance to leave the beach behind and experience the coast from a different perspective.

Known for its surf and golden sand, Tamarindo also makes a lively base for time on the water. Conditions and wildlife sightings vary, adding to the sense of discovery. Snorkelling is at additional cost and bookable on tour.

Give surfing a try at Playa Tamarindo, a Pacific beach town closely associated with wave-riding. Get out on the water and experience the coastal energy that draws surfers to this stretch of Costa Rica.

Golden sand, rolling waves and a relaxed beach-town atmosphere make Tamarindo a fitting place to try the sport. This surfing option is at additional cost and bookable on tour; the itinerary does not specify whether instruction is included.

Zipline through the misty treetops at Selvatura Park in Monteverde. Glide above the forest for broad views of the canopy and the mountain landscape that makes this region a centre for nature-based adventure.

Monteverde’s cloud forest has a distinctly cool, humid atmosphere, with drifting mist often softening the view between the trees. This high-energy experience is at additional cost and bookable on tour.