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ABTA and ATOL Protected

Escorted Tours

Coast to Coast in Costa Rica including

Manuel Antonio Beach Stay


Route:
  • London
  • San Jose
  • Tortuguero
  • La Fortuna
  • Monteverde
  • San Jose
  • Manuel Antonio
  • London

3 NIGHTS from £489pp

Tour Highlights
  • Enjoy time in Manuel Antonio to explore at your own pace
  • Captivating city tour of Costa Rica's capital, San Jose
  • Witness the smouldering peak of Costa Rica's mighty Arenal Volcano
  • Marvel at the cascading waters of La Fortuna Waterfall
  • Snorkel past coral reefs teeming with fish in Cahuita National Park
  • Spot exotic wildlife on a leisurely safari float down Sarapiqui River
  • Wander the towering treetop walkways of Sky Adventure Park
  • Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park on horseback
  • Enjoy a scenic hike to Oropendola Waterfall
  • Visit the stunning Manuel Antonio National Park

Extension from £489pp

Tour + Extension from £4088pp

or call us on 0330 818 8907

Manuel Antonio Beach Stay

Extend your stay in Costa Rica and spend some time relaxing on the white sandy shores or choose to take part in some of the various activities on offer in the local area including hiking, guided tours and canopy walks.

Situated close to the magical national park, Manuel Antonio is one of the most picturesque parts of the coastline in the country, affording stunning views and beautiful beaches.

Tour Itinerary

1
UK to San Jose

Depart London on your scheduled direct flight to San Jose via Newark (USA), where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

  • Dinner
2
San Jose to Puerto Viejo de Limon

This morning, enjoy a sightseeing city tour of Costa Rica's vibrant capital city. Witness the city's main historical landmarks, starting in the eastern part of the city at Democracy Plaza and the National Museum then journeying through the city centre to the parks, museum and stadium to the west. After lunch, travel to Puerto Viejo, a laidback coastal city with a strong Afro-Caribbean influence and stunning stretches of beach.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
3
Puerto Viejo de Limon

Experience fantastic snorkelling and scenic nature walks as you take in Costa Rica's famed wildlife and nature reserves. Board a boat and travel to Cahuita National Park where you can snorkel along the 600-acre-long coral reef - a gloriously colourful haven for marine life. Snack on fresh tropical fruit as your boat returns to shore then take a leisurely guided hike through Cahuita's vivid rainforest, enjoying far-reaching ocean views and the chance to spot howler monkeys, sloths, armadillos, toucans and macaws. At the end of your picturesque hiking trail, feast on a Costa Rican-Caribbean lunch before returning to your hotel in Puerto Viejo.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
4
Puerto Viejo de Limon to Sarapiqui

After breakfast, transfer to the Sarapiqui tropical rainforest, crossing valleys and mountains dotted with picturesque villages before checking into your lodge nestled in the heart of the rainforest reserve.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5
Sarapiqui

Wake to the singing of birds and the relaxing sounds of the tropical rainforest and enjoy breakfast in your verdant surroundings. Make your way to the Sarapiqui River where you will float down the river in a raft, surrounded by incomparable jungle beauty. Enjoy two hours immersed in the lush tropical rainforest, floating along the Sarapiqui River which lies next to important reserves renowned for their biodiversity. Exotic amphibians, countless tropical birds, otters, fish, sloths, iguanas, and incredible flora will make this experience unforgettable. Disembark and journey to a nearby pineapple plantation where you'll travel into the fields on a specially designed coach pulled by a tractor. Learn about the growth of organic pineapples and other sustainable crops produced here, including yucca, lemon, guanabanas, and peppers. Enjoy delicious smoothies and slices of fresh, organic pineapple as you listen to Costa Rican folktales then return to your lodge.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
6
Sarapiqui to La Fortuna

Journey through lush plantations and cattle ranches, finally arriving at your hotel in La Fortuna. Marvel at the fantastic views of the mighty Arenal Volcano which forms a dramatic backdrop and enjoy the remainder of the day to explore this tranquil mountainous town

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
7
La Fortuna

Hike through the cool undergrowth of La Fortuna, a scenic 40-minute walk that ends at the site of the thundering La Fortuna Waterfall. Witness the natural beauty of the cascading water as it emerges from the dense jungle, falling into the emerald pool at its base. Relax or swim in the refreshingly cool waters before lunch at a nearby restaurant. In the afternoon, follow the lava trails around the base of the Arenal Volcano, formed by the lava flow of the 1968 eruption. The hike provides extraordinary views of the Arenal Volcano and Monteverde mountains, and the chance to spot local flora and fauna and enjoy some birdwatching.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
8
La Fortuna to Monteverde

Travel to Monteverde, a small community located at the top of the Tilaran Mountain Range that boasts spectacularly diverse cloud forest reserves. On arrival, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the town or relax in your hotel.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
9
Monteverde

A full day observing Monteverde's natural beauty starts with a tour along the treetop walkways of Sky Adventure Park, Sky adventure park gives the opportunity to enjoy the flora and fauna of the area; The sky walk combines trails and suspension bridges, with lengths of 984 feet and heights above the canopy of Monteverde cloud forest. In the afternoon, gain insight into Costa Rica's greatest agricultural produce. Learn more about the wonderful world of coffee before you participate in a chocolate-making session and taste the region's cacao beans. A sugarcane demonstration follows, allowing you to extract sugarcane juice the traditional way before enjoying a glass of fresh juice and pieces of cane.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
10
Monteverde to Rincon de la Vieja

Depart Monteverde and travel to Rincon de la Vieja, home to the majestic Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Check into your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
11
Rincon de la Vieja

Set out on today's tour of the majestic Rincon de la Vieja National Park, dominated by two active volcanoes. Friendly ranch horses will carry you on a 45-minute to the Las Pailas entrance of the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Meaning 'The Cauldrons' in Spanish, the Las Pailas area shows off the awesome power of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, and you'll witness steam and sulphur pouring out of the ground while nearby pools bubble with hot volcanic water. After this unique experience, ride to a nearby canyon then walk along a short trail to the base of the canyon where the picturesque Oropendola Waterfall plunges into a turquoise pool. After a relaxing swim and time at the waterfall, travel back to your hotel on horseback.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
12
Rincon de la Vieja to Manuel Antonio

Journey to Manuel Antonio, home to lush tropical forest, powder-soft beaches, and colourful coral reefs, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
13
Manuel Antonio

Visit the stunning Manuel Antonio National Park home to spectacular white-sand beaches, tropical lowland wet forest and coral reefs. The area is home to an astonishing variety of exotic wildlife that you can seek out on a guided rainforest walk from white-faced and squirrel monkeys to three toed sloths, iguana and toucans.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
14
Manuel Antonio

Today is at leisure for you to explore the beauty and unique atmosphere of Manuel Antonio.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
15
Manuel Antonio to San Jose to UK or extension

Transfer to San Jose airport, stopping for lunch along the way. Board your overnight, return flight to the UK or continue on to your chosen extension. Please note: early flight departures will be given a box breakfast for the journey.

  • Breakfast
16
Manuel Antonio

Today will be at leisure at your Manuel Antonio hotel for your extension. FOR 2023 DEPARTURES - Please note due to flight schedules, departures between April - October 2023 your Manuel Antonio beach stay will be 4 nights. 2024 departures will be 3 nights.

  • Breakfast
17
Manuel Antonio

Relax in this beautiful setting at the end of your tour.

  • Breakfast
19
Manuel Antonio to the UK

Transfer back to the airport for your flight home.

  • Breakfast

Important Information

Visas

A 90 day tourist visa is granted on arrival in Costa Rica. You must have at least 6 months validity on your passport. Further to visa advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you to check with your destinations Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding required passport validity. Costa Rica has a departure tax of approximately USD $29. This must be paid in cash at the airport before you depart.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call 0800 781 4237 and quote 'WK830' for preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24-hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.

Payment

If booking more than 10 weeks before departure a deposit of £250pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 10 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 10 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.

Flight Information

Each passenger is entitled to 23kg of hold luggage and hand luggage not exceeding (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), in size. Weight restrictions will be finalized on E-ticket receipt. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Check-in should be at least 3 hours before departure.

Health and Vaccinations

We recommend that you consult your local GP for advice on vaccinations and travel health before your departure.

Physical Accessibility

This tour is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves full days of sightseeing, often on foot and includes some climbing of stairs and getting on and off coaches and boats. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

Group Size

There is no minimum number of travellers for this extension however the main tour passenger numbers will apply for the main part of the tour. If in the unlikely event there are less than the required number of people booked on your main tour date then you may be asked to change to a different date. A full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.

Tour Guide

The main tour is a fully escorted tour, meaning that you will be met on arrival and will have a guide with you throughout the tour ensuring that you have first-hand knowledge at all times. Accommodation and transfers are included for the Manuel Antonio extension but there is NO guide so your time will be free.

Currency Information

Currency is Costa Rican colon. Prices in Costa Rica are frequently listed in US dollars, especially in hotels and restaurants, where you can expect to pay international prices. US dollars are widely accepted and some ATMs dispense dollars. Credit cards are also accepted as a form of payment. It is very important that you budget carefully and ensure you have the right form or currency before you arrive in the country.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover any personal purchases such as souvenirs, laundry and extra drinks and snacks. Approximately £300 will be sufficient for the durations of the tour, depending on how much of a bargain-hunter you are!

Tour Dates & Prices

Depart UKArrive UKExtension PriceTour PriceTotal Price
El Parador Hotel
20 Apr 202408 May 2024£559£4499£5058
04 May 202422 May 2024£559£3699£4258
07 Sep 202425 Sep 2024£559£3599£4158
12 Oct 202429 Oct 2024£559£4099£4658
23 Nov 202410 Dec 2024£559£4199£4758
San Bada Hotel
20 Apr 202408 May 2024£489£4499£4988
04 May 202422 May 2024£489£3699£4188
07 Sep 202425 Sep 2024£489£3599£4088
12 Oct 202429 Oct 2024£489£4099£4588
23 Nov 202410 Dec 2024£499£4199£4698

Included in the Price

  • Fully Escorted Tour with local English Speaking Guides throughout
  • Scheduled Flights from the UK.
  • All internal travel including air-conditioned/heated transportation.
  • Accommodation, meals as specified and entry fees to all sights.
  • All airport taxes and security charges.

Additional Expenses

  • Visas
  • Insurance
  • Tips
  • Any meals not specified in your itinerary
Travelling alone?

Unfortunately, we do not have any places with no single supplements on this tour. However, if you are happy to share with another passenger of the same gender, then let us know at the time of booking and we will endeavour to find you a travelling partner. Alternatively, please ask about our single supplement prices in order to book your own twin room

Private Tours:

If the group departure dates are not suitable for you and you would prefer a more personal and flexible experience then you can choose to book a private guide for your tour at a reasonable supplement.

What to expect

Fact File
Currency

Colon

Min/Max temperature

21 °C / 33 °C

When to go

Please familiarise yourself with the climate charts below.

San Jose

Tortuguero

La Fortuna

Monteverde

San Antonio

What to pack
  • Sunscreen, insect repellent and hat
  • Waterproof lightweight jacket
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight clothing (jeans are not recommended)
  • Sweater
  • Swimwear
  • Camera and charger
  • Small day pack for hikes/treks
  • Lightweight/travel towel
  • A plug adaptor - the electricity supply is 120 volts and 2 or 3 flat pin plugs
  • Binoculars
  • Personal first aid kit containing travel pills, rehydration powder, plasters, stomach settlers, antiseptic creams, aspirin etc
Tour Dossiers
Other Extensions
  • Costa Rica
    Tortuguero National Park Extension

    5 nights from £629pp

    View
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Hotels & Accommodation

Other Extensions

Tortuguero National Park Extension
Tour Route
  • UK
  • San Jose
  • Puerto Viejo de Limon
  • Sarapiqui
  • La Fortuna
  • Monteverde
  • Rincon de la Vieja
  • Punta Leona
  • San Jose
  • Tortuguero
  • San Jose
  • UK

Enjoy guided nature walks and a wildlife boat tour through Tortuguero National Park, an area of spectacular bio-diversity. Please note, due to flight schedules, that Extensions occurring from April to October this extension will be 4-nights long.

IMPORTANT - Please note, due to flight schedules, from April to October this extension will be 4-nights long.

5 nights
from £629pp
View Extension
View Extension

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