Rather than rushing through two of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, this tour invites you to savor Cahuita and Tortuguero in all their vibrant detail, offering a true immersion in their natural wonders and rich culture.
In Tortuguero, your stay at the eco-friendly Lirio Lodge places you in the heart of a lush primary rainforest, accessible by a scenic boat ride. Spend your days kayaking or paddleboarding on the tranquil lagoon, and embark on guided boat tours through the Tortuguero canals, where you’ll encounter an array of wildlife, from caimans to vibrant birds and monkeys. You’ll also have the chance to visit the nearby village of Barra de Pacuare, where local communities actively contribute to conservation and turtle protection efforts along the coast.
In Puerto Viejo, the second leg of your journey, you’ll be fully immersed in the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture of Costa Rica. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and join the lively Carleen for a hands-on cooking experience, where you’ll learn to prepare mouthwatering Caribbean dishes while sharing plenty of laughs. Explore Cahuita National Park, where lush trails wind along the coast, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and, if the sea is calm, snorkel in crystal-clear waters among vibrant coral reefs. On your way back to San José, you’ll visit the Huetar community at the Quitirisi Indigenous Reserve to discover ancestral traditions and take part in hands-on cultural activities.
Interested in seeing even more of this beautiful country? Then check out our full range of Costa Rica tours. And if you have any questions about this Costa Rica eco tour package, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
This trip was designed as a road trip through Costa Rica to give travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace, making spontaneous stops along the way. However, we understand that not everyone is comfortable driving or ready to take on Costa Rica’s adventurous roads. That’s why we offer three ways to experience the journey: as a self-drive adventure, with a rental car and dedicated driver; as a fully guided trip with private transportation; or as a combination of these options, depending on your comfort level and the regions you’re visiting.
Apart from transport, we can also offer upgraded accommodations, as well as meaningful destinations and experiences you won’t want to miss in Costa Rica. Just send us an enquiry and we’ll start designing your dream trip together.
There are many minor items that are not included in the price, either because they are optional or easier for you to pay on site. Some general exclusions on this trip, are:
Read more about what’s generally not included in our Terms and Conditions.
Upon your arrival to San José, our team will be ready to welcome you at the airport and will provide assistance and all the information you need to help you get well briefed for your upcoming Costa Rica adventure. Depending on your arrival time, we can organize an optional evening tour of the town. Alternatively, if you prefer to unwind, you can relax by the hotel pool and enjoy the calm surroundings as you get ready for your upcoming adventures.
This morning, you will depart from San José, choosing between private transportation or a rental car for a scenic 3 to 3.5-hour drive to the stunning Caribbean coast. Your journey begins as you traverse lush mountain forests, descending into the vibrant plains. Along the way, marvel at vast banana plantations, creating a picturesque backdrop as you approach Lirio Lodge, your ecolodge nestled in the Tortuguero channels.
Upon arrival, your adventure truly begins! After a thrilling 15-minute boat ride through the enchanting waterways, you’ll reach Lirio Lodge, where you’ll be surrounded by pure nature and the promise of spotting your first wild animals. Enjoy lunch at the lodge’s restaurant, offering stunning views of the lagoon and the pristine rainforests of the famous Pacuare Reserve, which are separated from the sea only by a peninsula of untouched land.
In the afternoon, embark on a cultural exploration of the charming town of Barra de Pacuare, located on the banks between the lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the local community, visiting a school and exploring the village. If available, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the important work of a turtle protection project located along the beautiful Caribbean beaches. Turtle sightings cannot be guaranteed as they are dependent on natural conditions. The best time for spotting these turtles is from March through June 30.
As the day winds down, take time to relax and soak in the natural surroundings. Enjoy options for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, included in your package, as the sun sets, creating the perfect ending to your first day in paradise. If the weather cooperates, we’ll gather around a cozy campfire. Please note that the itinerary may vary due to weather conditions or organizational needs, and all excursions are conducted in small groups for a more intimate experience.
Start your day with an exhilarating boat excursion through the breathtaking natural channels surrounding Lirio Lodge. Glide along the Tortuguero canals, teeming with life from alligators and crocodiles to sloths, monkeys, and an array of vibrant bird species. Your guide will choose the best route based on the season and weather conditions, ensuring you have the chance to witness the area’s incredible fauna and lush jungle landscapes. After exploring, return to the lodge around 10 AM for some well-deserved free time. Relax, or take advantage of the lagoon by kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding amidst the tranquil surroundings.
As noon approaches, indulge in a delicious lunch before setting off again by boat to uncover the wonders of the Pacuare Reserve. This 2.5-hour journey will immerse you in the heart of a primary tropical rainforest, where you’ll encounter diverse ecosystems and wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for playful monkeys, colorful toucans, and elusive sloths as you navigate this stunning natural gem. Spend your afternoon at leisure, soaking in the beauty around you, before enjoying a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay at Lirio Lodge, where the sounds of nature lull you to sleep.
After a delightful early breakfast, set off for an exciting journey south to the vibrant cultural heart of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Enjoy a scenic drive to the charming town of Cahuita, renowned for its stunning beaches and captivating national park, but also as a vibrant hub for Afro-Caribbean culture. This afternoon, prepare for a culinary treat as you’re welcomed into the home of the lively Carleen, a proud and delightful woman who will enchant you with her stories and expertise in Pakua culture, the heritage of the descendants of the slaves who worked on the plantations here centuries ago.
Thanks to her mother tongue, often playfully referred to as “broken English,” Carleen has no trouble communicating with you while you feel the history in every interaction. With her infectious laughter, Carleen will guide you through the art of Caribbean cooking, teaching you how to prepare traditional dishes. Learn to open plantain, prepare crispy “patacones,” extract fresh coconut milk (a fun challenge!), and savor the flavors of a delicious local fish meal—don’t worry, vegetarian and vegan options are available too!
Overnight in Cahuita.
Exploring Cahuita National Park is an unforgettable adventure that connects you with the pure beauty of Costa Rica. Begin your day with a walk through lush tropical trails, where you might spot howler monkeys, sloths, and vibrant birds, all set to the soothing soundtrack of the Caribbean Sea. If the sea conditions are right, you can snorkel around nearby coral reefs, discovering colorful fish, rays, and possibly even sea turtles.
Overnight in Cahuita.
After breakfast, you will begin your journey back to San José. Along the way, you will stop to visit the Quitirisi Indigenous Reserve, where you will have the opportunity to discover the rich traditions of the Huetar people.
During your visit, Don Juan will give an engaging talk about Huetar history, culture, and daily life. You will also take part in a clay workshop, where you can create your own piece using traditional techniques.
Next, you will experience a stone-grinding activity with maize, followed by a bow and arrow workshop to learn about ancestral hunting practices. The visit concludes with a guided walk through the sacred tombs and the ceremonial altar, where you’ll hear about their spiritual importance.
After the tour, you will continue on to San José, where you will spend the night.
Today, you will be taken to the airport with the necessary time to check in for your international flight back home.
If you have some extra time in Costa Rica, we’re happy to suggest more activities in the area—whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, dive deeper into cultural experiences, or explore more of the region’s hidden gems. One option is to discover the incredible Selva Bananito, a remote jungle lodge offering eco-adventures and pristine rainforest experiences. Whether you prefer cultural activities or more time in nature, we can tailor your extended stay to ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful region.
This journey embraces the essence of slow travel—focusing on fewer destinations, reducing unnecessary travel, and immersing yourself in the experience. By staying longer in one region, you’ll have the chance to truly connect with the local culture, nature, and people, rather than just passing through.
While this trip includes some well-known destinations, we take a different approach by introducing you to hidden gems that few travelers get to experience. Take Lirio Lodge, for example—tucked away in the Pacuare Reserve, it’s a peaceful and authentic alternative to the heavily visited Tortuguero. While Tortuguero is famous, it can be crowded, whereas Pacuare offers a more intimate and sustainable experience, surrounded by untouched nature. Here, you’ll glide through pristine canals, spot incredible wildlife like sloths and monkeys, and directly support one of Costa Rica’s most vital sea turtle conservation projects.
Beyond exploring hidden natural gems, this trip also has a strong cultural focus, helping to preserve indigenous heritage that is slowly disappearing in Costa Rica. You’ll have the chance to connect with local communities through immersive experiences—whether it’s learning traditional cooking techniques in Cahuita, where every meal reflects Afro-Caribbean history, or spending time with the Huetar indigenous community, discovering ancient practices like archery and grinding maize on a stone mill.
What I love most about this trip through Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is how it brings you closer to nature and local culture in such an honest way. At Lirio Lodge, nestled along the Pacuare River, waking up to the sounds of wildlife and the gentle flow of water felt peaceful and grounding. The lodge’s eco-friendly design, utilizing solar energy and offering guided canoe tours, provided a sustainable and intimate experience. In Cahuita and its National Park, I loved the mix of jungle and beach—hiking under the trees and snorkeling in the sea is all possible in one day.
This trip made me slow down, look around, and connect. It left me with lasting memories and a renewed appreciation for Costa Rica’s hidden gems along the Caribbean coast.
Most activities are moderate and include guided walks, cultural visits, and boat rides. Some hikes—such as those in Cahuita National Park—may involve uneven terrain and warm, humid conditions, but are generally manageable for most fitness levels.
Snorkeling is weather-dependent. If sea conditions are too rough, snorkeling may not be possible. However, the park still offers excellent hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Accommodations range from eco-lodges (Lirio Lodge) to comfortable hotels (Cahuita).
The best time to visit depends on your preferences. The dry season (December to April) offers sunny days and easy travel, while the green season (May to November) brings lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and great wildlife viewing, especially for whale watching (July to November).
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but smaller towns and remote areas (like Rancho Quemado) may only take cash. It’s best to carry some colones for small purchases.
Self-driving can be a fun and rewarding way to explore the region, as there are many beautiful places to see along the way, and you have the freedom to stop whenever you want. However, the terrain can be challenging, with unpaved roads, river crossings, and steep sections, so a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended. Prior experience with off-road driving is helpful, but as long as you plan your route carefully and stick to scheduled activities, it can be an exciting adventure.
Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations, but service may be limited or slow in remote areas. Cell service can also be weaker in rainforests and mountainous regions.
Absolutely! You can extend your stay in Cahuita, venture into Selva Bananito for more jungle adventures, or explore other incredible destinations in Costa Rica. If you’d like, we can also combine this trip with one of our other itineraries. Let us know your interests, and we’ll tailor the journey to suit you!
Yes! The cooking class and most meals can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions. Just inform us in advance.
Yes. The visit is organized in collaboration with the Huetar people to ensure respectful engagement. Your participation directly supports the community’s economy and helps preserve their traditions.
Lirio Lodge is located in the Pacuare Reserve and offers a quieter, less touristy, and more intimate wildlife experience. In contrast, Tortuguero, while beautiful, is more developed and attracts more visitors.
Some excursions are shared, but most can be made private upon request for an additional cost.
