Tour
The science of biodiversity: Costa Rica
Next trip 13 days from 3 November 2026
Prices from 拢5,795
Booking information
3 November 2026 – 13 days for 拢5,795 per person
23 February 2028 – 13 days for 拢6,295 per person聽
Register your interest for 2029 and we will contact you when confirmed details including finalised dates and prices are available.
Embark on an extraordinary expedition where you will experience Costa Rica鈥檚 biodiversity firsthand and delve deep into the science behind it. This trip will encompass a wealth of fascinating ecosystems, including cloud forests, wetlands, primary rainforests, volcanic zones and the rich variety of life in marine reserves and national parks.
Costa Rica is one of the world鈥檚 most biodiverse countries, despite covering just 0.03% of Earth鈥檚 land surface. Explore its remarkable range of habitats, from San Jos茅 and Monteverde鈥檚 cloud forests to the volcanic landscapes of Arenal and the rainforests of Corcovado. Visit conservation and community projects, including a bat research centre and cacao farm, while looking for whales, dolphins, sloths, monkeys, iguanas and an extraordinary diversity of birds and other wildlife.
You鈥檒l be accompanied throughout by a tour leader whose passion for biodiversity brings every landscape to life. Together, you鈥檒l dive deep into the astonishing range of ecosystems that define Costa Rica – from mist-laden cloud forests to vibrant wetlands and sunlit coastal habitats. Along the way, they鈥檒l share eye-opening insights into the country鈥檚 biology, ecology, agriculture, sustainability practices and its remarkable commitment to environmental stewardship, with 25% of its land protected. Local guides, conservationists, biologists and naturalists will enrich your journey even further, immersing you in Costa Rica鈥檚 natural wonders and revealing the scientific and cultural reasons this small nation ranks #1 on the Happy Planet Index.
This tour is ideal for curious travellers who want to explore Costa Rica鈥檚 exceptional biodiversity through a combination of guided walks, wildlife watching, conservation projects and time in the country鈥檚 varied natural environments. You don鈥檛 need specialist knowledge of biology or natural history, just an interest in understanding the wildlife and ecosystems you encounter. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, as the tour includes walks on uneven forest trails, suspension bridges and other active excursions.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
Itinerary
Flexibility is an important part of travelling in Costa Rica. Weather, road conditions and wildlife sightings can influence daily plans, and your expert and tour leader may incorporate additional stops or points of geological, wildlife or scenic interest where conditions allow, helping you make the most of every opportunity in this dynamic landscape.
Day 1: Arrive in San Jos茅 and meet the group
Welcome to Costa Rica! Costa Rica鈥檚 vibrant capital, San Jos茅, sits in the heart of the country鈥檚 Central Valley, surrounded by volcanic peaks and fertile highlands. A lively cultural hub, the city combines historic neighbourhoods with museums, markets and a thriving caf茅 scene. On arrival, check into the Hotel Aut茅ntico in San Jos茅.
In the evening you will meet the rest of your small group of explorers and cover the forthcoming itinerary with the local tour leader.
Day 2: Drive to Monteverde and bat jungle tour
After breakfast, you鈥檒l set off on a scenic three-hour journey north-west toward Monteverde, ascending into one of the most extraordinary cloud-forest regions on Earth. This high-elevation sanctuary harbours an incredible eight distinct microclimates, creating a patchwork of habitats that support over 400 bird species – including resplendent quetzals and iridescent hummingbirds – and more than 1,200 species of reptiles and amphibians.
After checking into the Calathea hotel for three nights, enjoy some free time around the lush grounds before experiencing the bat jungle tour. The tour offers a world-class exhibit, in which live bats fly through a simulated jungle environment. A special ultrasonic microphone will let you experience how bats use their biological sonar for echolocation and socialising.
After the sun goes down, you will head out on a night walk with expert local naturalists, an outstanding opportunity to experience the forest from a whole different perspective. Many of the organisms that are active at night have evolved special adaptations to thrive in the darkness.
Day 3: Santa Elena reserve, Orchid Garden and Monteverde Institute
You will start the day exploring the fantastic Orchid Garden, where you can find more than 450 species and learn about the project鈥檚 work in conserving these beautiful plants and how it utilises local student volunteers.
Founded in 1992 and managed by the Public High School Board of Directors, the Santa Elena reserve holds a vast variety of biological diversity within its 310 hectares and a percentage of the entrance fees paid by visitors goes towards youth education in the community.
After lunch, you will visit the Monteverde Institute for a tour and talk that covers the different sustainable projects there. The institute is a not-for-profit association dedicated to education, applied research and community engagement. It exemplifies how appreciating and building on the area鈥檚 biodiversity is woven into the fabric of everyday life here (as you will see on many of the visits over the coming days).
Day 4: Monteverde sky walk and visit the Frog Pond
Today, you will explore the reserve from way up high on the sky walk. This serenely peaceful aerial adventure will allow you to explore the highest points of the reserve鈥檚 dense forest canopy, giving you views that go on for miles. You will travel deep in to the mountains via a series of suspension bridges. The guided walk will enlighten you about the area鈥檚 flora and fauna, much of which is hidden from the ground.
Late afternoon, you will visit the Frog Pond, where 25 species of frogs and toads live in large terrariums that simulate a natural environment, including the colourful poison arrow frog, cane toad and red-eyed tree frog. With guides on hand, you will learn about their history, habitats and unique characteristics.
Day 5: Lake Arenal, Arenal volcano and Eco Termales Hot Springs
In the morning, you will continue north and then loop around Lake Arenal, where you will take a gentle trek around the Arenal volcano (which last erupted in 1968) and the extinct volcano Cerro Chato. Here you will see dried lava flows and the devastation they can cause to vegetation and wildlife.
Afterwards, you can relax in the Eco Termales Hot Springs. These thermal springs are of magmatic origin and contain calcium bicarbonates and magnesium, which are said to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxing properties.
In the evening, you will check into the Arenal Springs hotel for two nights, where you can relax in its exotic gardens and further natural hot springs before enjoying a group dinner.
Day 6: Ca帽o Negro and boat tour of the Fr铆o river
Today is an early departure to Ca帽o Negro. On the way, you will have the opportunity to learn about the crops and plantations that are important to Costa Rica, such as yuca, papaya, pineapple, sugar cane and oranges.
After a quick rest stop, you will embark on a boat tour of the Fr铆o river, exploring its wetlands ecosystem. On this relaxing cruise, you may have the chance to see egrets, herons, monkeys, caimans, iguanas, bats and a variety of flora. In addition, the wetlands support an abundance of fish such as the tropical gar, the Atlantic tarpon and the false yellowjacket cichlid. The cruise will be followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before you return to Arenal.
Day 7: Travel to the Caribbean lowlands, enjoy a chocolate tour and evening night walk
After travelling east for 90 minutes, you will be in the Caribbean lowlands, another area that is rich in biodiversity and devoted to agriculture. Cacao is an important crop here, so you will enjoy a chocolate tour that takes you on a journey to discover the story behind the drink of the gods and how it was prepared in the past, followed by a guided tasting.
In the evening, you will check into Tirimbana Rainforest Lodge for two nights. Later on, you will take a night walk with a naturalist when the forest is most active. The red-eyed tree frog and web-footed frog are common discoveries on night walks here.
Day 8: Morning birdwatching, Alma Ata Archaeological Park and Tirimbina Rainforest Center
Sarapiqui houses 54 per cent of all birds found in Costa Rica, so before breakfast and pre-dawn you will embark on a birdwatching tour on foot for a few hours. This will allow you to observe the more nocturnal species before they turn in for the day.
After breakfast, you will visit the nearby Alma Ata Archaeological Park. This is a beautiful orange orchard, where in October 1999 a large, more than 600-year-old pre-Columbian tomb field was discovered. As well as the burial field and its stone sculptures, the park exhibits reconstructions of petroglyphs and a 15th-century Indigenous village.
In the afternoon, you will visit the Tirimbina Rainforest Center, a national wildlife refuge where you will explore the trails, traverse the suspension bridge of the Sarapiqui River and be given a talk on the centre and its work.
Day 9: Fly to Corcovado National Park
Corcovado National Park is among the most biologically dense places on Earth, located on the wild and untamed Osa Peninsula on the Pacific south-west coast. It contains 13 major ecosystems including lowland rainforest, highland cloud forest, jolillo palm forest, and mangrove swamps, as well as coastal marine and beach habitats. There are more than 250,000 species including toucans, tapirs, jaguars, sloths, bull sharks and more.
You will travel by river boat to the splendidly isolated Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge for three nights. The hotel paths lead directly into the rainforest, where the smells and sounds fill your senses. Before dinner together, you will embark on a walking night tour to explore them. The thrill of entering the rainforest at night is incomparable. On every expedition the chances of seeing wildlife vary greatly, but you could find the red-eyed tree frog, tarantulas and, with luck, even the shy and secretive tapir. The guide will provide all the necessary equipment including flashlights and rubber boots for your safety.
Day 10: Corcovado National Park and San Pedrillo ranger station
Today, you will journey into the heart of the park and visit the San Pedrillo ranger station. Wildlife is abundant here and easily observed. Including sloths, Jesus lizards and colourful scarlet macaws.
The number of visitors entering the park is carefully controlled by law to ensure its protection, so your visit will be pre-registered with the local park authorities. Once at the ranger station, you will have plenty of time to explore the trails and enjoy dense primary rainforest where little light reaches the forest floor, creating intriguing ecosystems. The station has extensive facilities for the support of research and protection activities.
You will return to the lodge by boat for dinner.
Day 11: Coral Garden and Ca帽o Island snorkelling
Today starts after breakfast, when you will meet your guide at the gear house to select your fins and mask for snorkelling. It is then a 40-minute boat ride to the Coral Garden. Along the way, you may see pilot and humpback whales, and dolphins.
The snorkelling site is located within a marine reserve, with extensive coral and is ideal for spotting a wide variety of marine life, including manta rays, turtles and small white-tipped sharks. This is a great experience for all regardless of experience. Inflatable diving vests that can be adjusted to allow you to bob fully supported on the surface or dive down below, whichever you prefer, are provided, and you will be accompanied by a guide while in the water.
After an hour of snorkelling, you will cruise towards Ca帽o Island. It was once an important ceremonial site and burial ground for the pre-Columbian inhabitants. The island is now a national park. Here you can wade ashore and stroll along the beach. After your return cruise back to the lodge, a picnic lunch will be laid out for you on the beach.
In the evening there is a farewell dinner with your fellow guests.
Day 12: Sierpe, Palomar Sur and return to San Jos茅
After checking out of the lodge, you will return by boat to Sierpe and then on to Palomar Sur to catch your flight back to San Jos茅. In the evening, you will check in to the Hampton Inn Hotel close to the airport for your homeward flight the following day.
Day 13: San Jos茅 departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport, which is a few minutes away.
Should you wish to stay a few days longer in San Jos茅, we are happy to help make the arrangements.
FAQs
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour begins and ends in San Jos茅. Please speak to Intrepid Travel, who can offer advice and book flights for those travelling from the UK.
How fit do I need to be to enjoy this tour?
You should be comfortable walking for several hours at a time on uneven and sometimes muddy forest trails, including some gentle inclines and steps. The tour includes guided walks in cloud forest and rainforest, suspension bridges, a volcano walk and a night walk, as well as time on boats and a snorkelling excursion. The pace is generally manageable, with opportunities to rest between activities, but you should have a reasonable level of fitness and be confident walking on uneven terrain. The local guides will provide equipment where needed, including rubber boots for the Corcovado night walk and flotation vests for snorkelling.
How much driving is involved?
The tour involves some longer road journeys as you travel between Costa Rica鈥檚 diverse habitats, although these are balanced with several shorter transfers and days exploring on foot or by boat. The longest road journey is on Day 2, when you travel for around three hours from San Jos茅 to Monteverde. Other journeys include around 90 minutes to the Caribbean lowlands on Day 7, while the remainder of the itinerary involves shorter transfers or travel by boat and domestic flight. Roads can be winding and travel times may vary with traffic and local conditions.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Costa Rica鈥檚 extraordinary biodiversity is a major feature of this tour, with opportunities to encounter wildlife across cloud forest, rainforest, wetlands and coastal habitats. You may see colourful birds including toucans, scarlet macaws, hummingbirds and, with luck, resplendent quetzals, alongside monkeys, sloths, iguanas, caimans, frogs and bats. In Corcovado, you could encounter tapirs and a remarkable variety of rainforest species, while the boat and snorkelling excursions offer the chance to see dolphins, whales, manta rays, turtles and small white-tipped sharks. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and some species are particularly elusive or active only at night.
What will the weather be like in Costa Rica?
During the tour in November, you will experience the transition from Costa Rica鈥檚 rainy season towards the drier months, with conditions varying between the country鈥檚 different regions. Expect warm, humid weather in the lowlands, with daytime temperatures generally around 25鈥�30掳C, while Monteverde鈥檚 higher elevation is cooler and can be misty or wet. Rain showers are still possible, particularly in the afternoons and evenings, and the Osa Peninsula can be particularly humid. Conditions can change quickly, so lightweight clothing, waterproofs and good walking footwear are recommended.
Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?
All of our tours, cruises and expeditions are perfect for solo travellers. If you want your own room, you will need to pay a solo supplement. However, if you are happy to share a room with a fellow guest of the same sex, we will do all we can to match you with another guest so you don鈥檛 have to pay the solo room supplement.
Booking information
Booking administration
This tour is operated by our trusted partner Intrepid Travel on behalf of New 精东传媒 Discovery Tours. Their dedicated specialist team will be your main point of contact from booking until you return home, handling your reservation, payments, travel documents, pre-departure information and any questions about your tour or travel arrangements.
Highlights
- Explore Arenal鈥檚 dramatic volcanic landscapes, observing steaming vents and dynamic habitats shaped by geothermal forces
- Journey into the Osa Peninsula鈥檚 untouched, wildlife-rich rainforests, witnessing one of Earth鈥檚 most astonishing biodiversity hotspots
- Wander through Monteverde鈥檚 enchanting cloud forests, studying rare epiphytes and high-elevation species enveloped in mist
- Trek with passionate conservationists, uncovering Costa Rica鈥檚 extraordinarily diverse and vibrant ecosystems
- Venture out on atmospheric night walks with expert naturalists, revealing the mysterious, glowing world of nocturnal species
- Glide along lush wetlands, winding rivers, and pristine coastlines by boat, discovering remarkable aquatic wildlife
- Cross breathtaking Sky Walk canopy bridges, immersing yourself in intimate, high-forest ecological encounters
- Stay in immersive eco-lodges nestled deep in thriving forests, supporting sustainability while connecting with wildlife
- Maximum group size 鈥� 16 people
Meet the expert
A local English-speaking Intrepid Travel tour leader will accompany this tour throughout. Your tour leader will also act as your expert throughout the tour, sharing their knowledge of Costa Rica鈥檚 remarkable biodiversity, ecosystems and wildlife. Costa Rica has a high standard of local guiding, with experienced naturalists who have an in-depth understanding of the country鈥檚 flora and fauna. For this reason, an additional specialist expert is not required, allowing you to benefit from a single knowledgeable guide throughout your journey.
Local experts
During visits to the various reserves, national parks, institutes and on the boat trips, you will meet and have talks from local naturalists, biologists and conservation experts.
What’s included
- Entry to all sites, parks and reserves
- Talks and walking seminars from local expert guides
- All accommodation, transport and domestic flights
- Arrival/departure group airport transfers for those on the suggested group flights
- Breakfast every morning plus four lunches and seven dinners
- Tour leader and 24-hour support
What’s not included
- Travel insurance
- International flights
- Gratuities for local guides, drivers and porters
- Private airport transfers
- Visa/ETA (if applicable)
- Single supplement – 拢1,200
Accommodations
Hotel Aut茅ntico San Jos茅, San Jos茅
Hotel Aut茅ntico is a contemporary boutique hotel located just outside the bustling center of Costa Rica鈥檚 capital. It blends modern comfort with warm local character, offering stylish rooms, a relaxed atmosphere, and attentive service. Guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor pool, on-site dining, and easy access to San Jos茅鈥檚 museums, markets, and cultural attractions
Con Coraz贸n Hotel, Monteverde
Con Coraz贸n Hotel is a warm, socially driven boutique hotel known for its inviting atmosphere and community-focused mission. Blending comfortable accommodations with charming local design, it offers guests a peaceful retreat while supporting educational programs in the surrounding area. With friendly staff, thoughtfully prepared breakfasts, and an emphasis on meaningful travel, the hotel provides a stay that feels both relaxing and purposeful.
Lost Iguana Resort, Arenal
Lost Iguana Resort is a tranquil jungle escape nestled near Arenal Volcano, offering stunning views and an immersive connection to Costa Rica鈥檚 natural beauty. Its spacious, nature-inspired rooms and winding forest paths create a serene, secluded atmosphere perfect for relaxation. With amenities like thermal pools, a spa, and easy access to nearby adventure activities, the resort blends comfort with the thrill of the rainforest for an unforgettable stay.
Tirimbina Rainforest Lodge, Sarapiqui
Tirimbina Rainforest Lodge, located in the heart of Sarapiqu铆, is a haven for nature lovers and eco-tourists. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the lodge offers comfortable accommodations and direct access to the renowned Tirimbina Biological Reserve. Guests can enjoy guided tours, wildlife encounters, and the famous chocolate tour while immersing themselves in the beauty of the tropics.
SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge, Corcovado National Park
SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge is an eco-focused retreat set near the edge of Corcovado National Park, offering guests an intimate experience with one of Costa Rica鈥檚 most biodiverse regions. Designed with sustainability in mind, the lodge pairs rustic comfort with responsible practices, creating a peaceful haven surrounded by pristine rainforest and abundant wildlife. Guided excursions, fresh local cuisine, and a wellness-oriented atmosphere make it an ideal base for exploring the Osa Peninsula鈥檚 wild beauty.
Hampton Inn, San Jos茅 Airport
A four-star hotel just over a mile from the airport. With an outdoor pool and free wifi throughout to help you catch up on life at home. The hotel provides a free shuttle to the airport, so after your hot breakfast and checking out, you can be checking in for your flight within 10 minutes.
Please note: If required for reasons beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality or adapt the itinerary if required.