Curator’s statement
Costa Rica is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, friendly people and reputation as a safe, island-like getaway. This guide highlights a unique blend of three distinct, adjacent landscapes in the Guanacaste region — rainforest, dry forest and coast. Combined into a single multi-stop trip, it outlines an immersive experience that balances relaxation, adventure, gastronomy and culture. This combination of spectacular properties and experiences is perfect for a couples' trip, girls' trip or other adults' group trip.
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Where to stay in Costa Rica
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Things to do in Costa Rica

Arrange for private transfers with a local driver and guide to make this trip enjoyable and memorable. Don’t worry about renting a car, navigating unfamiliar roads, missing sightseeing opportunities or getting lost. Let the driver take you. The distances between locations ranges from 90 minutes to two and a half hours, but the journey flies by with scenic stops and lunch along the way.
Rainforest: Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna (3-4 nights recommended)
Relax in the thermal river, hot springs and spa at Tabacon Thermal Resort: Enjoy a range of soothing wellness experiences, including many secluded river pools of varying temperatures and nature-based spa treatments.
Explore the hanging bridges and spot wildlife in Arenal National Park Rainforest: Walk through the treetops and discover Costa Rica’s diverse flora and fauna.
Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall and take a refreshing swim: Trek down to a breathtaking 230-foot waterfall and cool off in its crystal-clear pool.
Stroll through the town of La Fortuna: Wander through this local town filled with shops, restaurants and a vibrant local atmosphere.
Add adventure activities nearby: Go zip-lining, rafting, ATV riding and more for an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
Dry forest: Rio Perdido Resort (2 nights recommended)
Hotel Rio Perdido is a very special boutique property almost hidden in the beautiful nature surrounding it.
Immerse yourself in nature and spot wildlife right on property: Stay in what feels like a luxury tree house and observe exotic birds, playful monkeys and other fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat.
Soak in the thermal river and paint yourself with volcanic mud: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience with mineral-rich thermal waters and a natural volcanic mud skin treatment.
Practice yoga, meditate, hike and bike: Reconnect with nature through guided or self-led wellness and adventure activities.
Beach: Playa Conchal on Guanacaste Coast (3-5 nights recommended)
Unwind on the almost private beach at W Conchal Resort: Lounge on a stunning white-sand beach complete with complimentary chairs, umbrellas and towels and enjoy swimming in the warm Pacific ocean water.
Stay active at the gym and pamper yourself at the spa: Enjoy a well-equipped fitness center and rejuvenating spa treatments tailored for relaxation.
Sail on an afternoon-to-sunset catamaran cruise: Snorkel, swim and enjoy lunch onboard with unlimited drinks as you watch the sun set over the ocean.
Visit the nearby town of Tamarindo for shopping and dining: Discover boutique shops, local markets and many restaurants in this lively beach town.
Take advantage of on-site and nearby activities: Try horseback riding, ATVs, surfing lessons and more for an action-packed beachside retreat.
Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica

The restaurants at all of these hotels are very good and offer many local Costa Rican dishes as well as international food. All have indoor and poolside bars with top-quality beverages. Nearby towns offer more local food experiences. Private drivers transferring you from location to location will stop at their recommended local restaurants along the way.
Some of the typical foods & drinks to enjoy include:
Rice & beans
Gallo pinto (a version of rice and beans served for breakfast)
Casado: A mixed platter of various items of choice, typically a meat, rice and beans, sweet plantains and a small salad
Fish and seafood prepared in many different ways
Patacones: Fried green plantains with a variety of toppings
Tortillas made of corn flower or cornmeal
Pico de gallo: A condiment or dip of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, garlic
Arroz con leche: Costa Rican rice pudding with cinnamon and brown sugar
Batidos: Beautiful fruit smoothies of many, many flavors
Guaro, aka Cacique: The national liquor with brand name Cacique, similar to white rum and often infused with various flavors, is used in many cocktails or taken "straight"

Travel Advisor
Lori Zelko

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Costa Rica page.