About This Trip
- Discover the renowned biodiversity of Costa Rica on this expert guided, small group eco tour through four distinct ecosystems.
- Explore the spectacular rainforest of the Osa Peninsula, called "the most biologically intense place on Earth" by National Geographic.
- Look for the Resplendent Quetzal, a rare and stunning bird, in the cloud forest, and visit a unique high altitude páramo ecosystem.
- Visit a sea turtle conservation project for the chance to see and help release newly hatched baby turtles.
Oceanic Society invites you on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to explore Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific coast, with an itinerary tailor-made to bring you face to face with wildlife. Known for its world-class biodiversity and strong commitment to environmental protection, Costa Rica is considered by many to be the world’s best ecotourism destination. Our Costa Rica eco tour goes beyond the standard ‘tourist trail’ as we visit a sea turtle nesting beach, explore the cloud forest, take a boat tour in search of whales and dolphins, and spend time amid the rainforest of the remote Osa Peninsula, called “the most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic.
Beginning in San José, we travel first to the ethereal cloud forest, where we’ll have a chance to see the stunning Resplendent Quetzal, hummingbirds, and other highland species. Next, we’ll descend to the Pacific coast, stopping to explore a breathtaking waterfall on our way. We’ll hike through a dry forest where sloths, monkeys, and vibrant birdlife await. A boat tour offers a chance to spot dolphins or humpback whales during the migration season.
The final stop on our journey is the incredible Osa Peninsula, home to one of Earth’s most biodiverse rainforests. We’ll spend three nights and two days in this ecosystem teeming with monkeys, toucans, Scarlet Macaws, dart frogs, and so much more. We’ll also visit a sea turtle conservation project, where you may assist in releasing hatchlings to the sea. From cloud forests to pristine coastlines, this expedition delivers unforgettable wildlife moments, breathtaking scenery, and a deep connection to one of the world’s most vibrant ecosystems.
If you are looking for an unforgettable Costa Rica eco tour, look no further!
"Our guides were fantastic! The accommodations were outstanding! The biodiversity of Costa Rica is phenomenal! Rain and cloud forests are wet! Ridley turtles are beautiful!" – Debra T.
"Extraordinary creatures, from beautiful birds to sloths and monkeys and turtles that can bring you close to tears" – Paul P.
Notes on Trip Costs
Cost Includes: All accommodations, activities, and meals as described; ground transportation to each destination; domestic air from Puerto Jimenez to San José; airport transfers; and a dedicated bilingual Oceanic Society naturalist.
Not Included: International airfare to/from San Jose (SJO), tips, alcoholic beverages, meals not listed above, airport taxes, any activities not described, tour leader and driver gratuity.
There is a single supplement fee of $975. A surcharge of $385 / person will apply to groups with less than 8 total participants. Click here for our full expedition terms and conditions. Note: Custom dates are available for groups of 4 or more - please inquire.
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Conservation Impact
Established in 1969, Oceanic Society stands as the oldest nonprofit organization in America committed to ocean conservation. We are trailblazers in the realm of "eco travel," crafting expeditions that not only align with our charitable mission but also actively support marine research and conservation efforts globally. Moreover, with every booking made, we take pride in sponsoring the removal of 200 lbs. of plastic waste from the ocean. Dive deeper into our innovative travel approach here.
Dates & Prices
Jul 25 - Aug 2, 2025
Book this TripNov 1-9, 2025
Book this TripJul 25 - Aug 2, 2026
Book this TripNov 1-9, 2026
Book this TripItinerary
The following itinerary is provided for informational purposes and is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. Accommodations may be substituted with comparable options as needed. (B, L, D) indicates meals provided: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 1 | Arrival in San José, Costa Rica (D)
Welcome to Costa Rica! Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport, where your guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and orientation.
Overnight at Hotel Auténtico, San José, a centrally located hotel offering modern comforts and a welcoming atmosphere.
Day 2 | Cloud Forest of San Gerardo de Dota (B/L/D)
Travel to San Gerardo de Dota’s lush cloud forest, stopping en route at El Paraíso de los Quetzales to hike in search of the Resplendent Quetzal. In the afternoon, birdwatch near your lodge, known for abundant highland species.
Overnight at Hotel Savegre, a tranquil eco-lodge surrounded by pristine nature and renowned for birdwatching.
Day 3: Nuayaca Waterfalls (B/L/D)
Descend to the Pacific coast, stopping briefly to admire Costa Rica's unique páramo, a type of high altitude tropical grass/shrubland. Enjoy a 4WD adventure to Nuayaca Waterfalls, where you can swim and relax amid stunning cascades.
Overnight at Cristal Ballena, Uvita, a serene rainforest retreat with ocean views, abundant wildlife, and luxury amenities.
Day 4: Whale Watching and Dry Forest Wildlife (B/L/D)
Hike Hacienda Barú’s dry forest trails, home to sloths, howler monkeys, coatis, and diverse birdlife. In the afternoon, embark on a dolphin-watching boat tour, with humpback whales often seen during the season.
Overnight at Cristal Ballena, Uvita.
Day 5: Journey to the Osa Peninsula (B/L/D)
En route to the Osa Peninsula, visit a local farm that supports wildlife conservation, offering opportunities to see sloths, toucans, and tree frogs. Spot Scarlet Macaws as you approach the rainforest.
Overnight Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge – An award-winning luxury eco-lodge with panoramic rainforest and ocean views.
Days 6-7: Sea Turtle Conservation and Rainforest Exploration (B/L/D)
Two full days will be spent immersing ourselves in the incredible biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula. We will hike along the trails with our guide to see the special plants and wildlife that are found here, including four species of monkey, birds including colorful Scarlet Macaws and toucans, tapirs, sloths, peccaries, poison dart frogs, and so much more.
On one morning we will join field biologists with the nonprofit organization Osa Conservation to learn about their sea turtle nest monitoring and conservation work on Playa Piro, with the chance to help release hatchlings (depending on the season). Spend the afternoon exploring rainforest trails, teeming with monkeys, coatis, dart frogs, and tropical birds.
Overnight Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge.
Day 8: Return to San José (B/L/D)
Enjoy morning birdwatching before a short flight back to San José. Relax in the evening and reflect on your adventures.
Overnight at Hotel Auténtico, San José.
Day 9: Departure (B)
Transfer to the airport for your flight home, leaving with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s wildlife and landscapes.
Accommodations
Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge is perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean
- Hote Luna Azul near Ostional Wildlife Refuge
- Borinquen Mountain Resort near Rincón de la Vieja volcano
- Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge on the Osa Peninsula
- Hotel Savegre in the cloud forest
- Crown Plaza or similar in San José
Naturalist(s)
Your expedition will be led by one or more of the following expert naturalist guides:
