9-Day Best of Northwest Costa Rica from San Jose: Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Guanacaste
Active
9d
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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About this experience
Experience Costa Rica's northwestern highlights on this 9-day tour, including Arenal Volcano National Park, Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Super Combo in Guanacaste. Explore the natural wonders of land and water, where approximately six percent of the world’s most bio-diverse species reside. Relax in a thermal hot spring. Explore the forest on a Sky Walk and ride on horseback along mountain trails – with an extra day to relax at your leisure or continue your adventure with multiple options.
Available options
3.5-Star Option: Triple
Accommodation in a triple room in the following hotels or similar:Country Inn & Suites in San Jose; Arenal Paraiso in Arenal; Cloud Forest Lodge in Monteverde; Tamarindo Diria in Guanacaste
3.5-Star Option: Double
Accommodation in a double room in the following hotels or similar:Country Inn & Suites in San Jose; Arenal Paraiso in Arenal; Cloud Forest Lodge in Monteverde; Tamarindo Diria in Guanacaste
4-Star Option: Triple
Accommodation in a triple room in the following hotels or similar: : Presidente Hotel in San Jose; Arenal Kioro Hotel in Arenal; El Establo in Monteverde; Cala Luna Hotel in Guanacaste
4-Star Option: Double
Accommodation in a double room in the following hotels or similar: : Presidente Hotel in San Jose; Arenal Kioro Hotel in Arenal;El Establo in Monteverde; Cala Luna Hotel in Guanacaste
4-Star Option: Single
Accommodation in a single room in the following hotels or similar: : Presidente Hotel in San Jose; Arenal Kioro Hotel in Arenal; El Establo in Monteverde; Cala Luna Hotel in Guanacaste
3.5-Star Option: Single
Accommodation in a single room in the following hotels or similar:Country Inn & Suites in San Jose; Arenal Paraiso in Arenal; Cloud Forest Lodge in Monteverde; Tamarindo Diria in Guanacaste
What's included
Arenal Volcano Hot Springs at Baldi
Lunch
Dinner
Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Breakfast
3 nights accommodation in Guanacaste
2 nights accommodation in Arenal
1 nights accommodation in San Jose
2 nights accommodation in Monteverde
Sky Walk Tour
Transfers between San Jose, Arenal, Monteverde and Guanacaste
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
4 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
7 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note: you can book optional tours while in destination for this multi-day trip
Note: single rooms are only available for 1 person, double rooms for 2 and triple rooms for 3. If you book additional passengers in the rooms, your booking will be rejected and a full refund will be processed
Important notes
Additional phone number:
(506) 4010-1004
24/7 (506) 8612-4747
This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.
About Alajuela
Alajuela is a charming city in Costa Rica's Central Valley, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and proximity to nature. It's the gateway to Poás Volcano National Park and offers a blend of urban comfort and outdoor adventure.
Top Attractions
Poás Volcano National Park
A stunning national park featuring an active volcano, lush landscapes, and hiking trails.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free (park may require an entrance fee)
La Fortuna Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest, perfect for swimming and hiking.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Free (parking fee may apply)
Central Market (Mercado Central)
A bustling market offering local produce, crafts, and traditional food.
Cultural/Shopping
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Casado
A typical lunch plate consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch
Can be vegetarian or vegan
Arroz con Leche
A creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Zip-lining
White-water rafting
Visiting hot springs
Picnicking in parks
Enjoying local cafes
Visiting museums
Exploring local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Alajuela is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from Alajuela
By bus
Alajuela Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Alajuela
San Antonio
Day trips
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
30 km (18.6 miles) • Full day
A beautiful nature park featuring waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking trails.
La Fortuna
60 km (37.3 miles) • Full day
A popular tourist destination known for its hot springs and adventure activities.
Festivals
Feria de las Flores y las Frutas • January
Pro tips
- Visit Poás Volcano early in the morning for the best views
- Try local street food at the Central Market for an authentic experience
- Explore the city's museums and cultural sites to learn about its rich history
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
- Use local transportation to get a feel for the city and save money
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
