Costa Rica 5-Day Jungle & Island Tour: Tortuga, Arenal, Rafting

Summary

Adventure Vacation in Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Islands & Rivers

You’ll swim off white-sand beaches at Tortuga Island, hike rainforest trails to waterfalls near Arenal Volcano, soak in natural hot springs, and paddle down wild rivers—all with local guides who know their stuff. If you want real Costa Rican adventure without missing comfort or culture, this is your trip.

What’s the experience like?

The air felt thick and sweet as we landed at Juan Santamaria Airport. Someone from the team was already waiting just outside customs—big smile, holding a sign with my name. He handed me a folder with all the info I’d need and even pointed out a good spot for coffee right outside baggage claim (Café Britt, if you’re curious). The drive to the hotel was quick; San José’s traffic can be unpredictable but we made it before sunset. I had the evening to myself—ended up wandering a bit around Barrio Amón, where locals were already out for their evening strolls.

The next morning started early—bags packed by 6:30 am for the ride to Puntarenas. The bus windows fogged up as we left the city behind and headed for the coast. Once at the dock, our group boarded a catamaran with bright blue cushions and reggae music playing low in the background. The trip across Nicoya Gulf took about an hour and a half; pelicans skimmed the water beside us. Tortuga Island looked like something off a postcard—white sand, palm trees, and that salty breeze you only get on Pacific beaches. We spent most of the day swimming, trying out beach volleyball (I’m terrible), and eating grilled fish right on the sand. There’s a little stand selling coconut water if you want something cold after snorkeling.

Day three was all about Arenal. Our guide, Andrés, knew every shortcut around La Fortuna town and shared stories about how locals used to watch for smoke from the volcano after dark. The hike down to La Fortuna Waterfall is steep—my calves felt it—but worth every step. The sound of water crashing below gets louder as you descend; by the time you reach the pool at the bottom, it’s almost deafening. Some folks swam under the falls—I just dipped my toes in (the water’s colder than you’d think). Lunch at Baldi Hot Springs came next: buffet style with lots of fresh fruit and local dishes like arroz con pollo. Afterward, soaking in those thermal pools while rain pattered on palm leaves overhead was pure bliss.

Fourth day? Pure adrenaline. We drove out toward Sarapiquí for whitewater rafting—class II-III rapids, nothing too wild but enough to get your heart going. Our river guide, Mariela, pointed out toucans overhead between rapids and even spotted a sloth curled up in a tree near one of our calmer stretches. Later that afternoon we zipped through canopy lines strung high above the riverbanks—the view from up there is unreal, especially when you catch glimpses of blue morpho butterflies flitting below.

The last morning was mellow—just time for breakfast and one last look at San José’s skyline before heading back to the airport in Alajuela province. If you’re into adventure but also want some downtime (and maybe a few surprises along the way), this trip hits all the right notes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival and Hotel Transfer

• Arrival at San Jose Airport and transfer to hotel
• Meet representative and receive itinerary
• Free time at leisure

Day 2 — Tortuga Island Tour

• Transport to Tortuga Island by catamaran
• Enjoy white sand beach and sport activities
• BBQ lunch on the beach
• Free time to explore island

Day 3 — Waterfall and Hot Springs

• Visit La Fortuna Waterfall and hike
• Relax at Baldi Hot Springs with buffet lunch

Day 4 — Rafting and Zipline Adventure

• Whitewater rafting and zipline canopy tour
• Rafting on Sarapiqui River

Day 5 — Checkout and Airport Transfer

• Hotel checkout
• Transfer to Costa Rica International Airport

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes! Most activities are family-friendly and guides adjust pace for younger travelers. Just let us know ages when booking.

Do I need previous rafting experience?

No experience needed—the Sarapiquí River section is great for beginners but still exciting for more adventurous folks.

What should I pack for this trip?

Bring light clothes for warm weather, sturdy shoes for hiking, swimwear, sunscreen, bug spray, and a rain jacket (showers can pop up any time).

Are meals included during excursions?

Yes—lunches are provided during main tours like Tortuga Island and Baldi Hot Springs. Snacks and drinks are also included on some days.

What’s included

This package covers private transportation throughout your stay (air-conditioned vehicles), guided tours with local experts, all main entrance fees (Tortuga Island catamaran tour with lunch; Arenal Volcano area hikes; Baldi Hot Springs access with buffet lunch; Sarapiquí River rafting; zipline canopy tour), plus four nights’ accommodation in San José. Lockers and towels are provided where needed so you can travel light each day.