Discover a renewed sense of awe and adventure as you embark into the mystery and magic of the Costa Rica Caribbean lowlands. Both of these enchanting storybook destinations are mainly accessible by boat, yet each is astoundingly unique. Spend the first leg of your journey exploring the Caribbean jungle draped rivers and canals of Tortuguero, where abundant wildlife , and exquisite Afro-Caribbean hospitality, culture, and cuisine await. Next, experience the utter power and beauty of rafting the Pacuare River as it winds through sentinel canyons and virgin rainforest. Your destination – the exquisite Pacuare Lodge, where untainted nature reveals a new form of luxury and rejuvenation inspired by the wisdom and lore of the native Cabécar
Optional Three-Day Costa Rica Caribbean Coast Beach Retreat
Once a quaint fishing village, today, the beachfront town is the heart and soul of Costa Rica’s Afro-Caribbean culture, charm, and world-class Costa Rica beaches. Explore its vibrant community brimming with local and international restaurants, bars, and boutique shopping. And make sure to sample the spicy and savory Creole cuisine that’s legendary in the region.
Costa Rica’s Caribbean side is a treasure chest of pristine rainforests, dense jungles, mighty rivers, and beautiful beaches. Make the most of your Ultimate Caribbean Discovery by adding one or more private charter flights with Böëna’s XPLORE AIR. We’ll take the tedious out of your Costa Rica travels in our executive-configured Cessna Grand Caravan. Recommended flight services: San Jose or Liberia International Airports—Tortuguero & Limon—San Jose or Liberia International Airport.
Welcome to the land of Pure Life (Pura Vida). Meet and greet at the San José International Airport and transfer to the landmark Grano de Oro Hotel (or similar), renowned for its historical charm and sophistication.
Rise early for a memorable drive through the mountains and lush Costa Rica rainforest of Braulio Carrillo National Park. Look out for waterfalls and scenic overlooks as you descend into the fertile Caribbean side of Costa Rica in Limon Province. The road ends at La Pavona dock, the gateway into a vast network of river canals and the charming town of Tortuguero. Your one -hour boat ride will reveal a fascinating ecosystem of marine and birdlife. Enjoy the soft tunes of Reggae and savory scents of Afro-Caribbean cuisine during an afternoon Tortuguero Village & Casa Cecropia tour. Overnight at the exquisite Tortuga Lodge & Gardens. (Optional: take a domestic flight directly to Tortuguero at an extra cost.)
Rise to the unique song of the jungle and a breakfast of tropical fruit and Caribbean classics. Later, choose one of the lodge’s signature activities such as the Natural History Boat Tour a guided boat tour that will take you deep into the over the glassy canals and tributaries of Tortuguero, where orchids and bromeliads share the treetops with sloth, monkeys, and over 300 types of birds. In the surrounding river habitat live countless species, including manatee, caiman, turtles, tapir, reptiles, and even jaguar. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the Cerro Tortuguero Tour or the evening Twilight Tour. Overnight at the exquisite Tortuga Lodge & Gardens.
After a hearty breakfast, take a final boat ride through the quiet canals to the docks, where a comfortable 4WD SUV will be waiting to transfer you to Pacuare Lodge. The scenic drive through the Talamanca mountains offers a glimpse into the mystical world of the Cabécar people who’ve inhabited the vast forests for generations. Upon arrival, take time to enjoy the exorbitant luxury of your suite, explore the manicured grounds, or take a dip in the Costa Rica rainforest infinity pool overlooking the river. A romantic candlelight dinner awaits you as the sun sets into the emerald treetops. Overnight at the Pacuare Lodge.
After a delectable home-grown breakfast overlooking the Pacuare river, you’ll discover a world of adventure and intrigue through Pacuare’s collection of nine onsite experiences and Costa Rica tours. If you’re drawn to thrills, don’t miss rock climbing and rappelling or gliding through the treetops on a breathtaking canopy zip line tour. Are you an adventurer at heart? Hike through the forest to a remote waterfall and a Cabécar village to witness firsthand what it is to live in symbiosis with nature (1-to-5-hour options). Or explore Pacuare’s organic gardens and visit a local community to see sustainability in practice, the list goes on. Complete the day’s magic with a rejuvenating spa treatment.
Awaken to birdsong and the sounds of the river. Today you will live another unforgettable day to its fullest. Embark on your next choice of signature experiences such as a Waterfall Hike, swim beneath the forest canopy in the dreamy infinity pool or indulge in a blissful massage at the Jawa Juü Spa. The spa’s expert therapists use the finest Costa Rica rainforest-sourced clays and infused oils inspired by the Cabécar’s healing arts. At Pacuare, every detail counts, and each meal is a feast to remember with locally grown produce, home-brewed craft beer, and an extensive international collection of wines and tropical beverages.
Relish in a delicious final breakfast at the lodge before setting out on a thrilling morning of whitewater rafting over Class III-IV rapids (approximately 3.5 hours). The spectacular Pacuare is deemed one of the world’s top ten most beautiful rivers. Float through steep canyons and pristine rainforest while wildlife in Costa Rica monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds watch from the treetops. You’ll also pass sleepy townships where children play in the river’s shallows before enjoying a fresh deli-style lunch and fruit on the riverbank. At takeout, you can change into dry clothes for the scenic drive back to San José. Overnight at the Grano de Oro Hotel.
Pick up and transfer to the Juan Santamaria International Airport with plenty of time for your check-in and departure.
• When flying or traveling by boat in Costa Rica, a maximum of 40 pounds of luggage + 10 pounds of carry-on is allowed per person.
• The 40 lb. weight limit for flights or boat trips and tours in Costa Rica does not mean you need to limit yourself to 40 lbs. of baggage for your entire trip to Costa Rica. If you have more than 40 lbs. of luggage, we’ll be happy to store the excess items in San José and deliver them to you after the excursion.
• Flights or boat transportation with over 40lbs of luggage can be arranged for an additional cost.
Rates2024• The package rate starts at $3,899.00 • The package with private flights Xplore Air starts at $5,067.00 • Rates are per person in double occupancy rooms • Rates are subject to change based on travel dates, occupancy, and availability • The minimum-night requirement may apply during the holiday season. Book Now |
Puerto Viejo, 3 days / 2 nights
Once a quaint fishing village, today, the beachfront town is the heart and soul of Costa Rica’s Afro-Caribbean culture, charm, and world-class beaches. Explore its vibrant community brimming with local and international restaurants, bars, and boutique shopping. And make sure to sample the spicy and savory Creole cuisine that’s legendary in the region
Day 1/7
Upon takeout from your whitewater rafting adventure on the Pacuare River, you will change into dry clothes and be transferred in professional comfort to the sparkling white-sand beaches of Puerto Viejo. Once a quaint fishing village, today, the beachfront town is the heart and soul of Costa Rica’s Afro-Caribbean culture and charm. Explore the vibrant community brimming with local and international restaurants, bars, and boutique shopping. Make sure to sample the legendary Creole cuisine that’s unique to the region. Overnight at the luxurious Hotel Aguas Claras.
Day 2/8
Costa Rica’s South Caribbean Coast is renowned for its postcard-perfect beaches and clear turquoise waters. The nearby Cahuita National Park and Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge are excellent day trips for exploring the idyllic coastal forests and mangroves and snorkeling the shallow offshore coral reefs. Kayaks and SUPs can be rented at each park entrance. Renting a beach cruiser bicycle is a great way to explore the beaches around your hotel. Surfing is another favorite, especially for advanced surfers who travel from afar for the world-class breaks at Salsa Brava and Playa Cocles. Other options include a visit to the nearby indigenous BriBri homelands to learn about their fascinating culture, medicinal lore, and the art of chocolate making. Or meet wild animals upfront and personal at the popular Jaguar Rescue Center. Overnight at the luxurious Hotel Aguas Claras
Day 3/9
After another glorious Caribbean morning and poolside breakfast, if possible, enjoy one last dip in the pool or the crystalline ocean waters in front of the hotel. Prepare your souvenirs and belongings for pick up and the scenic four-hour drive back to San José and the Grano de Oro Hotel.
2023 Rates:
Rates per person in Double Occupancy
The South Caribbean extension includes:
• Two nights at Aguas Claras Hotel or similar, breakfast included.
• Private ground transportation from Siquirres to Puerto Viejo.
• Private ground transportation Puerto Viejo to San José