Overview & Highlights
We’ve picked the best natural highlights of two friendly neighbouring republics: discover them on an adventurous holiday with river trips, lake ferries, volcano visits and an island stay. Wildlife abounds in luscious tropical landscapes.
- Arenal: Sky Tram and hanging bridges
- Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve
- Rio San Juan: Nature trail in Indo Maiz rainforest reserve
- Granada: Guided city tour and las Isletas boat trip
- Granada: Night-time visit to Masaya volcano crater
- Ometepe Island: Guided cultural and landscapes tour
These two central American neighbours have a lot in common: rugged volcanoes and fertile landscapes, luscious rainforests, Pacific surf and Caribbean palm-flecked sands. Both have friendly, relaxed populations and prolific wildlife.
But there are big differences too: the heritage of Nicaragua’s colonial and revolutionary history is still very much in evidence, while Costa Rica has become one of the world’s top eco-destinations and hub of active adventures. On this holiday we introduce you to the best highlights of both countries.
We’ve put together a range of adventurous yet undemanding experiences which include a tropical river trip and an island stay on Lake Nicaragua, you get to peer down into an active volcanic crater, clamber over a Spanish colonial fortress once besieged by Nelson, and go spotting exotic birds and spider monkeys swinging through trees where iguanas laze. You’ll be staying in independent simple and hospitable lodges and small hotels carefully selected to complement a holiday where you’ll come to know and love the gentle pace of life.
Outline itinerary
Day 1
Transfer to your hotel in central San José.
Day 2
Transfer to lodge close to Arenal lake and volcano.
Day 3
The Skytram and Hanging bridges in Arenal Volcano National Park.
Day 4
Optional opportunity to luxuriate in natural hot springs at Ecotermales
Day 5
Visit Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve; boat on Rio San Juan to El Castillo, Nicaragua. Night-time caiman spotting.
Day 6
Jungle nature trail in Indio Maíz reserve; guided discovery of the fortress.
Day 7
Boat to the port of San Carlos; by road to Granada.
Day 8
City tour and boat trip on Lake Nicaragua to las Isletas.
Day 9
Night-time visit to active Masaya volcano’s crater.
Day 10
Transfer to Ometepe Island on Lake Nicaragua.
Day 11
Guided tour of the island’s cultural and natural top sights.
Day 12
Ferry to the mainland and transfer to Managua airport for international flight.
What our clients say
97% of our clients rated their experience with us as Excellent or Good.
The Penguin tour was a great introduction to Chile, covering such a variety of landscapes and temperatures. Flying over the Andes was impressive. We were also surprised by the wildllife including condors, penguins, guanacos and flamingoes. All the local guides were excellent with superb local knowledge and the ability to make it enjoyable. Our tour leader fed in lots of interesting information as we travelled around.
SY, Wetherby
Tailor made holiday
Our specialists have been expertly crafting award-winning tailor-made holidays to Latin America for 40 years. We would be delighted to create a truly personalised trip which perfectly matches your wishes and requirements.
Hannah Donaldson - Travel Consultant
Having spent part of her childhood in Colombia and worked in Brazil and Costa Rica, Hannah's ties to Latin America run deep. Hannah is an invaluable part of our Group Tours team.
Things to do
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