Costa Rica’s east coast is a spectacular blend of golden beaches, swaying palm trees and the warm waters of the Caribbean. From world-renowned Tortuguero National Park in the north with its famous sea turtle nesting beaches, to the chilled-out coastal paradise of Puerto Viejo in the south, the sunrise coast has plenty to offer. Discover mangroves, wetlands and rainforests, snorkel over coral reefs, and embrace a mix of cultural influences from the islands of the Caribbean and local indigenous traditions.
It’s not just about where you go, but how you experience it. I’m here to turn that trip into an adventure you’ll cherish.
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Highlights
Tortuguero National Park
Witnessing tiny hatchling turtles crossing what seems like vast distances over sand and driftwood obstacles to reach the pounding surf is a sight that stays with you forever. You’ll need to visit from September to November to witness hatching season, but nesting turtles can be seen from July onwards and there is plenty to do in this 77,000 acre park year-round.
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Highlights
Tortuguero’s Waterways
The verdant rainforests, mangroves, rivers and canals – best explored by boat or kayak – are full of life including jaguars, monkeys, sloths and a colourful and noisy array of bird species. Flamboyant Tortuguero village is a must-visit. Accessible only by air or water, it encapsulates a fascinating mix of cultural influences including Afro-Caribbean, Hispanic and Miskito.
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Highlights
Puerto Viejo
Strong Caribbean influences permeate every fibre of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a charming and colourful coastal town in Costa Rica’s south-east corner. Unspoiled and carefree, a few days here will recharge your soul. Meander round hippy markets, enjoy a choice of fine restaurants, or hire a bike to explore the sandy, jungle-fringed beaches south of town including Playa Chiquita and Punta Uva.
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Highlights
Marine Wonders
If you tire of the lazy beach life take to the water and snorkel through the coral gardens of Cahuita National Park. Search for manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles at the beautiful Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, or take a cultural journey of discovery at the Bribri Indigenous Reserve.
Trip ideas
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New
Classic Costa Rica
Costa Rica EscortedExplore the emerald landscapes of Costa Rica on this 15-day escorted tour and see for yourself why it’s called the ‘rich coast’!
From £1895 Excluding Flights
14 Nights
Year Round
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New
Essential Costa Rica
Costa Rica Independent Self DriveFrom the bustling streets of a vibrant capital city to the lofty cloud forests of the Highlands, this budget-friendly self-drive trip packs in all the star highlights.
From £1480 Excluding Flights
9 Nights
Year Round
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New
Costa Rica Coast to Coast
Costa Rica Self DriveExplore two very different coastlines, from the Caribbean vibes of the southeast to the gorgeous tropical beaches of the Pacific Ocean.
From £2638 Excluding Flights
14 Nights
Year Round
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New
Costa Rica Discovery
Costa Rica Independent Self DriveDiscover Costa Rica’s best bits, from the flooded canals of Tortuguero to the Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse spots on the planet.
From £3195 Excluding Flights
13 Nights
Jan-Sep & Nov-Dec
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New
Green Season Highlights
Costa Rica Self DriveMake the most of Costa Rica’s quieter green season, exploring the best of the east and the colourful Caribbean Coast.
From £3920 Excluding Flights
12 Nights
May-Oct
Trip experiences
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Kekoldi and Bribri Indigenous Reserve Experience, Puerto Viejo de Limón
Costa RicaSpend time with two very different local families for a unique insight into Costa Rica from an indigenous perspective. From iguana conservation to the history of chocolate, natural medicines and sustainability, this fascinating tour is a deep dive into Costa Rican culture.
7 hours
Year Round
Accommodation ideas
Other Costa Rica regions
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Arenal and the North
It’s like the dramatic terrain of this region was custom-built for adventure. Volcanoes, mountains, thunderous waterfalls, natural hot springs and raging rivers that stretch all the way north to the Nicaraguan border.
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Central Pacific Coast and Central Highlands
Pristine beaches, coral reef, rainforest and sunsets - Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast is ideal for any outdoor enthusiast, with wildlife and birdlife galore. The undoubted jewel of the region is Manuel Antonio National Park but don’t skip the prolific birdlife of Carara National Park.
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Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula
Picture palm-fringed beaches lapped by the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, stunning wetlands, one of the world's last tropical dry forests, and spectacular volcanic backdrops... Costa Rica’s northwest really is the quintessential tropical paradise.
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Monteverde Cloud Forest
Perched upon the continental divide amid the peaks of the Tilaran Cordillera, towering trees reach high into the mist. Draped in moss, ferns and epiphytes, the atmosphere feels almost prehistoric.
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Osa Peninsula and South Pacific Coast
Breathtakingly beautiful and brimming with wildlife of all shapes and sizes, the Osa Peninsula forms one of Costa Rica’s most important ecosystems.
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San Jose and Central Valley
In the heart of Costa Rica, bustling capital city, San Jose, is surrounded by the pretty hillsides of the Central Valley. Scattered with lively towns, characterful villages, coffee plantations and fincas, almost 70% of the country’s population live here.
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