COSTA RICA
It’s often a struggle to find a vacation destination that really ticks all the right boxes. Powder white beaches, tropical climate, high octane adventure and secluded lodges, the list goes on … Luckily for those who want it all, there’s Costa Rica. Nestled at the crossroads of two great continents, Costa Rica is the perfect blend of all aspects we love at BODHI Retreats, which is why we’ve created our all-encompassing 12 nights amazing vacation to Costa Rica.
NICARAGUA
Volcanoes emerging from lakes, mountains, rainforests, coral reefs, mangroves, Caribbean islands – and no less than 78 national parks, bursting with flora and wildlife not seen outside of Central America – plus fascinating history, culture and countless activities including deep sea fishing, scuba diving and horse riding tours, make Nicaragua a really exciting, up and coming travel destination.
Option tours in Ometepe Island: Mangrove kayaking OR San Ramon waterfalls + coffee tour OR Maderas Volcano hike
ARRIVAL IN SAN JOSE
Welcome to San Jose, Costa Rica - the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, located in the central part of the country.
Known for its vibrant urban atmosphere, with a mix of modern and colonial architecture. The city is home to many cultural and historical landmarks, including the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum.
Upon arrival at the airport a transfer by taxi or van to your hotel for the night, Radisson, San Jose (or similar)
SAN JOSE CITY TOUR TRANSFER TO THE COAST, MANUEL ANTONIO
After enjoying a complimentary breakfast at the hotel, we will embark on a captivating walking tour of the city, providing you with unparalleled insight into both the country and its capital, San Jose. Some of the places we will visit are: National Theatre, High school for ladies, China Town, Democracy Plaza, National Museum, National Park.
Then for late morning we can take time to change money or buy sim-cards and take an optional lunch suggested by the guide downtown.
Afterwards, we will need to go back to the hotel to collect bags then take a 3h 45 min transfer by private van through the Pacific coast to the small town of Quepos in the Manuel Antonio area.
The hotel for tonight is Hotel 4* Shana by the beach, Quepos (or similar)
VISIT MANUEL ANTONIO RESERVE
Today we are visiting one of the world’s most beautiful National Parks due to it’s wide variety of flora and fauna.
What awaits you is a picturesque mid-level hike with two white sand beaches, Espadilla Sur and Manuel Antonio Beach, which are located in this protected area that houses coastal rainforests, mangrove swamps, coral formations, and islands. Throughout this natural history tour, the guide will explain the different nature specimens that can be observed, allowing one to take photographs or just admire the view. Upon completing the hike, the remaining time can be spent enjoying the beach.
The hotel for tonight is Hotel 4* Shana by the beach, Quepos (or similar)
TODAY IS A FREE DAY, OPTIONAL TRIPS AVAILABLE
Time to spend at your leisure. The hotel can offer different activities at additional costs such as: sailing and snorkeling or ocean kayaking.
DRIVE ALONG THE COAST, FERRY RIDE TO NOSARA PENINSULA. BIOLUMINESCENCE KAYAK/BOAT RIDE IN THE EVENING
In the morning we head to the Port of Punta Arenas to catch a ferry to Nosara Peninsula and Tambor at the southern side where the most low-key and beautiful beaches are located. We will depart around 8.45am and drive along the Pacific coast for 3 hours and in time for the ferry at 12. We will then transfer by ferry for around 45 minutes across to Paquera and continue to our hotel in Tambor another 40 minutes. In the early evening (6pm) we set off for our excursion to see the colours of the plankton that exist in these waters, that glow at night. We can either take a boat or go by kayak.
DAY TRIP TO TORTUGA ISLAND
Join us on an unforgettable adventure departing from Playa Organos. We'll embark on a 20-minute boat ride to Tortuga, where you can marvel at the stunning coastline and encounter marine life. Prepare for a thrilling experience as we navigate through the 'Arco Iris' (Rainbow Rock), passing through the hole in the rock formation.
Next, we'll visit the Morteros Islands, known for their volcanic rock reef and crystal-clear waters. Snorkel among vibrant fish and corals, including Angelfish, Porcupine fish, Morays, and Spotted Eagle Rays. After snorkeling, it's time to relax and soak up the sun on the island itself. Take a refreshing swim in the warm waters, walk along the pristine white sandy beach, or hike to the island's summit for breathtaking views. Indulge in a delicious meal consisting of fresh fruits and a sandwich (ham & cheese or vegetarian) while lounging under the shade of swaying palm trees. You can rent sun beds or simply lay your towel down on the soft sand.
REST DAY. OPTIONAL TRIPS AVAILABLE
There are plenty of on-site activities or watersports that can be arranged at extra costs. You can also book an appointment at the spa.
Other adventurous options could be a short hike to Montezuma waterfalls (a chain of 3 waterfalls) and a moderate walk on a canopy walkway that will take you to them. You can swim there.
There is a cost of entering the canopy walk + transport there and back.
1st DAY IN MONTEVERDE
After breakfast we transfer back to Paquera port and take the 9am ferry across to Puntarenas. From there, we have roughly a 2 hour drive to Monteverde yet another amazing place to discover! After lunch, we have several options for you:
1. Take part in sunset horse riding, with incredible photo opportunities and one of the tour highlights!
2. If you are not comfortable riding a horse we can offer you a coffee tour in the afternoon instead:
Coffee tour at Trapiche plantation.
The hotel for tonight is Hotel 4* EL Establo (or similar), Monteverde
MORNING VISIT MONTEVERDE RESERVE
Morning:
Embark on a captivating morning adventure as we explore the remarkable Monteverde Reserve, renowned for its abundant wildlife and picturesque trails. Within the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, you'll have the opportunity to trek through various trails that range from 1 to 3.5 hours in duration. As part of our package, the entry fee to the reserve is included. For those seeking an enhanced experience, you also have the option to hire a knowledgeable nature guide at an additional cost.
Afternoon (Optional):
In the afternoon, Monteverde beckons with its reputation as the "Ziplining and Canopy Mecca of Latin America." Immerse yourself in the adrenaline-pumping adventure of ziplining and canopy tours offered by a dozen different companies in the vicinity of the cloud forests. Prices for these thrilling experiences range from $65 to $90 USD, depending on the company and the package they offer.
If ziplining isn't your cup of tea, you can still enjoy the wonders of the canopy by strolling along the canopy walkways and hanging bridges.
The canopy tours typically include transport, equipment, zip-lining, and park entry. Additionally, within walking distance from the town, you'll find butterfly farms that offer a delightful opportunity to observe these exquisite creatures up close.
LAKE ARENAL VISIT
Today's adventure takes us to the beautiful Lake Arenal. We'll start our journey at 8:30 a.m. and embark on a captivating boat ride around the lake, immersing ourselves in its scenic splendor for approximately 3 hours. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil waters.
Following our time at the lake, we'll make our way to the charming town of La Fortuna, where our hotel awaits. Nestled in this picturesque town is the renowned
Baldi Hot Springs, our evening destination. Prepare to indulge in the ultimate relaxation as we soak in the rejuvenating thermal pools, complete with swim-up bars. Unwind, let the warm waters embrace you, and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this blissful sanctuary.
VISING AROUND LA FORTUNA
In the morning we can offer either a visit to the sloth/monkey park or cacao tour, all located near the town of Fortuna.
In the afternoon, the list of water related and adrenalin excursions are endless and include the following- half day Quad-biking, half-day Canyoning gravity falls (jumping down and abseiling down waterfalls, kayaking or boat party on Arenal lake, tubing, rafting on various grades of 2-3-4 class rivers, half day volcano hike)
Heard of Canyoneering? This is abseiling down waterfalls into plunge- pools!
Another option is the visit of Proyecto Asis Animal Conservation, either in the morning tour or afternoon tour.
END OF COSTA RICA Tour
For some the adventure is ending today.
There is a 3.5 hour drive to San Jose Airport.
If you do not need to go this day then we can drop you at a hotel near to the airport. We have a van for one drive. We do not have multiple taxis for different hours of departures. Therefore there would be an additional cost for any alternative times during the day if you have an earlier/later flight (160$)
BEGINNING OF NICARAGUA
At around 7am, we drive to the border (Peñas Blancas – 4 hours). At the border we will need to leave our vehicle and continue through the customs checks and border control. We need to pay in advance an online exit fee of around $8 by credit card and show this when we get to immigrations control.
We then walk across to the Nicaragua side and stamp in (can take up to 2 hours) they are at processing the passports, before taking private transport to our first destination in Nicaragua, Popoyo.
Transfer time takes around 2 hours from the border. Ideally we will order a late lunch when we arrive.
Then find somewhere along the beachfront to enjoy the sunset. The next day you can try out surfing.
The hotel for tonight is 3* hotel Casitas Pacific at Popoyo beach.
FREE DAY OF ACTIVITIES IN POPOYO
The area is popular for all year round surfing classes or you may just prefer to rent a board ($15 USD for the day) or take a lesson usually $30 USD per hour and up.
Aside this day can be spent relaxing in a hammock by the beach or you can head into the water for a swim.
ARRIVING OMETEPE ISLAND
We travel another 1 hour and a half to get to the port of San Jorge to take the ferry across to Ometepe Island. We will ideally embark around (10.30am) on our boat or ferry to cross into the middle of Lake Nicaragua (known locally as Lago Cocibolca) in 1 hour. We will then get to the port of Moyagalpa on the near side of Ometepe Island and travel around 45 minutes to the other side where our accommodation is located.
We should arrive for early- afternoon and can take lunch on arrival before we plan what to do for the next days.
Ometepe Island
Is formed in the shape of a figure 8, by two volcanos. One is Concepcion 1700m (active- last eruption 2009) and the other Maderas 1394m (extinct). The island is submerged in subtropical cloud forests and the main agriculture is farming and crops such as Cacao, Beans and Plantains.
The accommodation for tonight will be either Totoco Ecolodge or Selvista (or similar)
FULL DAY OF VISIT OMETEPE
We offer you the following options with a minimum of 4 people per activity, less means an additional cost.
1: Full day challenging trek on Maderas Volcano with a trek guide (full day)
2: Kayaking the mangroves of Rio Istian for marine wildlife with a local guide (half-day)
3: Shorter trek to Coffee farm and San Ramon waterfall with local guide (half-day)
THREE ACTIVITIES TO CHOOSE FROM
The Maderas Volcano hike (1394m) takes approximately 8 hours, covering around 11 kilometers, starting from Totoco with shade throughout, opportunities to see wildlife, including black howler monkeys and cacao plantations, a crater lagoon for swimming at the top, and variable views based on cloud conditions. Trek boots are essential.
Rio Istian Kayak tour
On the Rio Istian Kayak tour (usually up to 2.5 hours you may sight caimans, howler monkey, and many species of native birds.
San Ramon waterfalls
The waterfalls of San Ramon involve a 1.5-2 hourtrektogetthere. Thiscanbecombined with a visit to a coffee farm on the way there/ way back.
TRAVEL FROM OMETEPE TO GRANADA
After breakfast, we take the boat back to the port of San Jorge (1 hour). Short taxi to Rivas and transfer directly o Granada colonial town in 1.5 hours. Granada is the Oldest Colonial city in Latin America!
Upon arrival we will check in to our hotel and have lunch then we can suggest an orientation walk around the central area.
Late afternoon when it is cooler, we will do a short guided walk with our local guide.
The accommodation for tonight and tomorrow night is 4* La Merced, Granada (or similar)
FULL DAY OF VISIT GRANADA
Option 1: Visit ceramics village, Santa Catarina viewpoint and Laguna Del Apoyo for swim and lunch
In this trip we just need to hire the transport, hire the kayaks and pay an entry fee when we get there. Lunch can be brought or purchased at a lake- side restaurant. The lake itself formed over 20000 years ago is quite shallow and can be warm due to volcanic activity underneath the bed of the lake. On the way there (or way back) we can stop in the village of Catarina for a viewpoint over the entire lake and also a village famous for making artisanal pottery which is showcased at a local workshop in a family home. Lunch is an additional cost and up to the person.
In addition to option 1 or 2:
Adding an extra 2/3 hours to make a full day tour including a visit to Masaya active Volcano - 636m (could be done as an evening tour) and Masaya Artisanal market. Extra cost of $35 per person.
Option 2: Tour of Lake and Islands, San Pablo Spanish fort (around sunset is ideal)
This 2-3 hour tour gives you a chance to spot local wildlife such as spider monkeys and many species of birds such as cormorants. There are around 350 different small islands on the lake some of which are host to large private mansions of the wealthiest Nicaraguans in the country. The boats also take you up close to some islands where the only inhabitants are spider Monkeys swinging from the branches of the native trees. On one Island is an old colonial Fortress called San Pablo from the 17th century where you are allowed to disembark from the boat to explore. There will also be a stop at one of the Islands with a restaurant where you can take lunch or purchase refreshments.
Option 3: Is an extra cost but can be discounted with not doing one of the first trips
Hike Mombacha volcano 1570m. 5-6 hours (5 kilometers up, 5 down)
6 hour tour (3-4 hour hike) service with private guide, transport and entry fee. $30 per person (discounted from other trips) depending on numbers.
TRANSFER TO MANAGUA AIRPORT
Today we say ‘goodbye’!
Those leaving for the airport or will need to leave at 6.15am which may mean missing breakfast.
Then you will travel 1 hour to the airport for the 9am flight with Sansa airlines arriving at 10.15am (taking 1 hour 15 minutes).
