Tropical Costa Rica

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Overview

Tropical Costa Rica
San José Province, San José, Costa Rica
Mar 22 - 30, 2027
American Tours image
American Tours
$4,649
Deposit: $698

About this trip

Destination: Tropical Costa Rica
Travel Dates: March 22 – 30, 2027
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Primary Departure Airport: Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) — Alternate airports available upon request

Departure Type: Guaranteed Departure (no minimum required)
Group Size: Average 37 Travelers (Maximum of 44)

Tour Operator: Collette
Travel Style: Guided Tour Experience
Activity Level: Level 3 – Active

Price: $4,649 per person (double)
Single Supplement: $600

What’s Included at a Glance

  • Round-trip airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)

  • 8 nights hotel accommodations

  • 14 meals (8 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 5 dinners)

  • Professional Tour Manager at Destination throughout

  • Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary

  • Motor-Coach transportation at destination

Overview

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica on this immersive journey through lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine coastal regions.

Begin in the vibrant capital city of San José before traveling to the Arenal region, where you’ll be surrounded by tropical rainforest and views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Experience Costa Rica’s rich agricultural traditions with a visit to a coffee plantation and a hands-on farm tour highlighting sustainable practices and local culture.

Explore the country’s incredible wildlife during a river safari in Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important ecological areas in Costa Rica. Continue your journey with a scenic cruise across Lake Arenal before arriving in the misty Monteverde Cloud Forest, a unique ecosystem teeming with diverse plant and animal life.

Enjoy the flexibility of Collette’s “Choice on Tour” experience, allowing you to personalize your adventure with either a hanging bridges walk through the forest canopy or an exhilarating zip line experience.

Conclude your journey along Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific coast in Guanacaste, where you’ll relax on sandy beaches, explore the charming town of Sámara, and enjoy a memorable farewell dinner as the sun sets over the ocean.

This thoughtfully designed itinerary offers a balance of guided exploration, cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, and leisure time, providing a well-rounded experience of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and warm hospitality.

This experience is operated by Collette and features a fully guided journey with a professional Tour Manager at destination, seamlessly connecting each destination with carefully planned experiences, comfortable accommodations, and expert insight throughout.

What to Expect on This Tour

This journey offers a well-balanced travel experience through Costa Rica, combining lush rainforest landscapes, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and relaxing coastal time.

Travelers can expect a comfortable pace with a thoughtful mix of guided sightseeing, immersive experiences, and leisure time throughout the itinerary. From the volcanic beauty of Arenal to the misty cloud forests of Monteverde and the beaches of Guanacaste, each destination offers a unique and memorable perspective of Costa Rica.

This tour includes a variety of experiences such as wildlife viewing, cultural visits, scenic travel, and hands-on activities. Highlights include a river safari through Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, a sustainable farm visit, and time to explore one of the world’s most unique ecosystems in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

A signature feature of this journey is the “Choice on Tour” experience, allowing travelers to select between a relaxing hanging bridges walk or an adventurous canopy zip line, providing flexibility to match personal interests and comfort levels.

Travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity, including walking on uneven terrain, navigating natural paths in rainforest and forest environments, and spending time outdoors in warm, tropical conditions. Some days include longer travel times between regions, balanced with scenic views and meaningful stops along the way.

Travel between destinations may include longer days with scenic drives averaging 4–5 hours, sometimes on winding or uneven roads.

Throughout the journey, you will be accompanied by a Professional Tour Director at Destination throughout, along with knowledgeable local guides who provide insight into Costa Rica’s ecosystems, culture, and traditions.

Accommodations are selected for their location and connection to the environment; some properties may be more rustic in style, with rooms accessed via outdoor pathways and limited amenities such as air conditioning in certain locations.

Why Book With American Tours

Travel with confidence knowing your experience is supported by a trusted local team dedicated to making your journey smooth, enjoyable, and memorable from start to finish.

  • Personalized service from a local, trusted team

  • Assistance before, during, and after your trip

  • Easy payment plans through WeTravel

  • Local support you can call anytime

Highlights

Experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Costa Rica through rainforest exploration, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable scenic landscapes.

  • 9-Day Costa Rica Adventure

  • 3-Night Stay in the Arenal Volcano Region

  • 2-Night Stay in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

  • 2-Night Beachfront Stay in Guanacaste

  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Experience

  • Choice on Tour:

    • Hanging Bridges Walk

    • Canopy Zip Line Adventure

  • Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge River Safari

  • Arenal Volcano Region & Rainforest Landscapes

  • Lake Arenal Scenic Cruise

  • Coffee Plantation Experience

  • Farm Tour & Farm-to-Table Lunch

  • Pacific Coast Beach & Sunset Experience

Featured Experiences

Enjoy a collection of immersive experiences that highlight Costa Rica’s natural beauty, rich culture, and incredible biodiversity.

Coffee Plantation Experience
Discover the history and process behind one of Costa Rica’s most important exports with a guided visit to a local coffee plantation in the Central Valley.

Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Safari
Explore one of Costa Rica’s premier wildlife habitats on a guided riverboat safari, where you may encounter monkeys, sloths, caimans, exotic birds, and more.

Arenal Volcano Region Stay
Spend three nights in the lush Arenal region, surrounded by rainforest landscapes and views of one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes.

Farm-to-Table Cultural Experience
Visit a family-owned sustainable farm, where you’ll learn traditional practices, taste fresh tropical fruits, and enjoy a locally prepared farm-to-table lunch.

Lake Arenal Scenic Cruise
Travel across Costa Rica’s largest lake, taking in scenic views as you journey between regions.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Experience
Explore one of the world’s most unique ecosystems with a guided nature walk through the misty

Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Choice on Tour: Hanging Bridges -or- Zip Line
Personalize your experience with a choice between a peaceful hanging bridges walk through the forest canopy or an exhilarating zip line adventure.

Guanacaste Beach Stay
Relax along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast with a two-night stay in Guanacaste, known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

Sámara Coastal Visit & Sunset Experience
Visit the charming beach town of Sámara and enjoy a stunning Pacific sunset during your final evening in Costa Rica.

Itinerary

Experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica on this immersive journey through lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and coastal paradise.

Day 1 – Monday, March 22, 2027
San José, Costa Rica

Meals Included: None
Overnight: San José

Arrive in Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city, where your tropical adventure begins. Take time to relax and settle in as you prepare for the journey ahead.

  • Arrival in San José

  • Transfer to hotel

  • Evening at leisure

Day 2 – Tuesday, March 23, 2027
San José – Coffee Plantation – Arenal

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Arenal

Travel through the scenic Central Valley and discover the rich tradition behind Costa Rica’s world-famous coffee before continuing to the lush landscapes surrounding Arenal Volcano.

  • Visit a local coffee plantation

  • Learn about coffee cultivation and production

  • Travel to Arenal

  • 3-night stay near Arenal Volcano

Day 3 – Wednesday, March 24, 2027
Arenal – Caño Negro – Arenal

Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Arenal

Venture into one of Costa Rica’s most important wildlife refuges for a relaxing river safari through a pristine natural habitat.

  • Guided riverboat safari in Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge

  • Search for wildlife including monkeys, sloths, birds, and caimans

  • Afternoon at leisure

Day 4 – Thursday, March 25, 2027
Arenal

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Arenal

Immerse yourself in local culture with a hands-on visit to a family-owned farm focused on sustainability and traditional practices.

  • Visit a family-owned farm

  • Learn about sustainable agriculture

  • Taste exotic fruits and local products

  • Sugar cane demonstration and tasting

  • Farm-to-table lunch

Day 5 – Friday, March 26, 2027
Arenal – Lake Arenal Cruise – Monteverde

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Monteverde

Enjoy a scenic journey across Costa Rica’s largest lake before entering the misty, enchanting world of the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

  • Cruise on Lake Arenal

  • Travel to Monteverde Cloud Forest

  • Guided nature walk in the cloud forest

  • 2-night stay in Monteverde

Day 6 – Saturday, March 27, 2027
Monteverde

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Monteverde

Experience the cloud forest your way with a choice between peaceful exploration or adrenaline-filled adventure.

  • Choice of Hanging Bridges walk OR Zip Line adventure

  • Afternoon at leisure or optional second activity

  • Evening discussion on Costa Rica’s migratory birds

Day 7 – Sunday, March 28, 2027
Monteverde – Guanacaste

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Guanacaste

Travel from the cool cloud forest to Costa Rica’s sun-drenched Pacific coast, where relaxation and ocean views await.

  • Scenic drive to Guanacaste

  • 2-night beachfront stay

  • Time to relax and enjoy ocean views

Day 8 – Monday, March 29, 2027
Guanacaste

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Guanacaste

Unwind in paradise with a day at leisure before experiencing local culture and a memorable farewell evening.

  • Free time to enjoy the beach or resort amenities

  • Visit the coastal town of Sámara

  • Farewell Dinner

  • Sunset views along the Pacific coast

Day 9 – Tuesday, March 30, 2027
Guanacaste – Tour Ends

Meals Included: Breakfast

Depart with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s natural beauty, wildlife, and warm hospitality.

  • Transfer to Liberia Airport (approximately 2 hours)

  • Departure day

Overnight Accommodations

Enjoy comfortable, well-located accommodations throughout your journey, carefully selected to complement each destination and enhance your overall travel experience.

Hotel Stay:
8 nights hotel accommodations

Planned Accommodations:

  • San José, Costa Rica – DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari (Day 1)

  • Arenal, Costa Rica – Mountain Paradise Hotel (Days 2–4)

  • Monteverde, Costa Rica – El Establo Mountain Hotel (Days 5–6)

  • Guanacaste, Costa Rica – Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows (Days 7–8)

~ In the event of unforeseen circumstances, a comparable hotel of equal quality may be substituted. ~

Pricing & Tour Details

Tour Pricing:

  • Double Occupancy: $4,649 per person

  • Single Occupancy: $5,249 per person

Tour pricing includes round-trip international airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW), air taxes, fees, and hotel transfers.

Tour pricing does not include optional Travel Protection.

Deposit & Final Payment

Deposit Required at Registration: $698 per person
Final Payment Due: December 22, 2026

A deposit is required at the time of registration to secure your reservation. All reservations are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. Space cannot be held without a completed registration and deposit.

Deposits are fully refundable until September 22, 2026.

Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.

Flexible Booking Assurance

Deposits and Travel Protection payments are fully refundable until 180 days prior to departure.

If your plans change within 180 days of departure, the value of your deposit or Travel Protection may be applied as a Future Travel Credit toward another Collette tour, provided changes are made prior to the final payment due date.

Future Travel Credits are non-transferable and typically valid for 12 months from the original departure date.

Flexible Payment Options

After submitting your deposit, you may log into your secure WeTravel reservation account at any time to make additional payments toward your balance. Travelers may also choose to set up automatic or scheduled payments, allowing the remaining balance to be divided into smaller payments leading up to the final payment due date.

American Tours accepts the following forms of payment:

  • Credit or debit card

  • Bank draft (ACH)

  • Personal check (processed electronically as a bank draft)

Credit card and ACH (bank draft) payments are processed through our secure WeTravel Reservation Platform. If paying by check, please make checks payable to American Tours.

Credit card or bank statements will reflect: WT TROPICAL COSTA RICA*

What’s Included

  • Round-trip airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)

  • 8 nights hotel accommodations

  • 14 meals (8 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 5 dinners)

  • Professional Tour Manager at Destination throughout

  • Comprehensive sightseeing and admissions per itinerary

  • Motor-Coach transportation at destination

  • Hotel transfers and baggage handling

Air Travel Information

Air travel for this tour is arranged by Collette and is included for guests selecting the air-inclusive option.

Land-Only Option & Air Travel Preferences

If airline choice, seat selection, or specific flight preferences are important, you may request a land-only option and arrange your own flights.

Land-only pricing is not displayed online. Please contact American Tours for availability and pricing details. Land-only requests must be made at the time of reservation.

Flight Schedules:
International flight schedules are typically confirmed when final travel documents are released approximately 21 days prior to departure.

Seats & Baggage:
Airline seat assignments and baggage fees are not included in the tour price and are subject to each airline’s policies. Some airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until airport check-in.

Important Information

Itinerary and accommodations are subject to change.

Tour Responsibility

American Tours and Collette act as intermediaries for travel services provided by independent suppliers. All transportation, accommodations, and services are provided by third-party providers. Itineraries and services are subject to change.

Tour Activity Level 3

Understanding the physical activity required for this tour will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Activity Level: Level 3 – Active
(Level 1 = easiest, Level 4 = most demanding)

This tour features a moderately active pace with a variety of included experiences set in rainforest environments, natural reserves, and scenic outdoor settings throughout Costa Rica.

Travelers should be comfortable with extended periods of walking, often on uneven terrain such as natural paths, forest trails, and inclines. Some excursions, including visits to the Monteverde Cloud Forest and wildlife areas, may involve walking for up to 2–3 hours at a time and covering several miles over the course of a day.

The itinerary includes a mix of sightseeing, nature walks, and cultural experiences, along with travel between regions. Activities may require getting in and out of boats, motorcoaches, and other forms of transportation.

Some days may include early morning departures or full-day touring, balanced with leisure time to rest and recharge.

Due to the tropical climate, travelers should be prepared for warm temperatures, humidity, and occasional rain, as well as varying terrain conditions.

This activity level is best suited for travelers who are physically active, steady on their feet, and comfortable participating in outdoor experiences. This tour is not appropriate for travelers requiring mobility assistance devices.

Who This Trip Is For

This journey is designed for travelers who will appreciate the natural beauty, cultural experiences, and active exploration of Costa Rica.

  • Travelers interested in experiencing Costa Rica’s rainforests, wildlife, and diverse ecosystems

  • Guests who enjoy a guided travel experience with a well-organized and immersive itinerary

  • Those who appreciate nature, scenic landscapes, and outdoor experiences in tropical environments

  • Travelers comfortable with a moderately active itinerary, including walking on uneven terrain and spending time outdoors

  • Guests who enjoy cultural experiences such as farm visits, local traditions, and regional cuisine

  • Travelers looking for a balanced journey featuring guided exploration, wildlife encounters, and time to relax along the coast

  • Those seeking a memorable international adventure that combines rainforest, mountains, and beach destinations

Travel Identification

Proper travel documentation is required for this international journey. Please review the following requirements carefully to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Passport Requirements:
A valid passport is required for travel to Costa Rica. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your return date of travel.

Costa Rica Entry Requirements:
U.S. citizens are typically permitted to enter Costa Rica for tourism purposes with a valid passport. Entry requirements may change, and additional documentation may be required based on current regulations.

Date of Birth (DOB):
Dates of birth are required at the time of reservation for airline ticketing purposes.

Traveler Responsibility:
Passengers are responsible for ensuring they have the proper identification and documentation required for international travel, including passports and any required entry documentation.

Important Reminder:
We recommend reviewing current international travel requirements prior to departure, as entry regulations may change. Itinerary and accommodations are subject to change.

Collette's Optional Travel Protection

Travel Protection is available for this tour and is designed to help protect your investment in the event of unexpected cancellations or interruptions.

Plan Cost: $469 per person
(Must be purchased at the time of registration with your initial deposit)

Coverage Highlights

Before Your Trip (Cancellation Protection):

  • Provides a refund of tour payments (excluding the Travel Protection fee) if cancellation occurs prior to departure

  • Coverage includes cancellation for any reason up to the day prior to departure

  • Airfare purchased through Collette is covered under the plan

During Your Trip:
Coverage may include:

  • Trip Interruption

  • Trip Delay

  • Baggage & Personal Effects

  • Baggage Delay

  • Emergency Medical Expenses

  • Emergency Evacuation / Repatriation

  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment

  • 24/7 Travel Assistance Services

Important Information

  • Travel Protection must be purchased at the time of registration and cannot be added later

  • The Travel Protection fee itself is non-refundable

  • Coverage applies to the full tour package; partial cancellations may still result in penalties

  • Airfare not purchased through Collette may not be covered under this plan

  • Single supplement charges resulting from a traveling companion’s cancellation are not covered under the cancellation waiver

  • Travel Protection coverage varies by plan, and not all situations are eligible for reimbursement. We strongly encourage all travelers to review plan details carefully to ensure the coverage meets their individual needs

  • Travel Protection may be purchased through Collette or independently through a provider of your choice

  • American Tours does not determine coverage decisions. All claims and benefits are administered by the insurance provider

Full Policy Details
For complete coverage information, restrictions, and exclusions, please visit:

Collette's Travel Protection Policy

Cancellation Policy (Without Travel Protection)

  • More than 90 days prior to departure: Deposit retained

  • 90–16 days prior to departure: 40% of total tour price

  • 15–1 days prior to departure: 75% of total tour price

  • Day of departure or later: No refund (100% penalty)

  • Airfare is non-refundable once paid in full

How To Book

Online Registration (Recommended)
You may register securely online 24 hours a day by clicking the green “See Availability” button.

During the online registration process, you will:

  • Complete the reservation form

  • Submit your required deposit

  • Provide passenger information required for air travel, including date of birth

Deposits may be paid by credit card, debit card, or bank draft (ACH). Once your reservation is completed, you will receive a booking confirmation email.

Mail-In Registration

To register by mail, click the “Download Brochure” button to access the Premier World Discovery brochure and registration form.

Complete the form and mail it with your deposit to the address listed. Your reservation will be confirmed once your deposit is received and processed by American Tours, and a confirmation email will be sent.

Payment Information
American Tours accepts the following forms of payment:

  • Credit or debit card

  • Bank draft (ACH)

  • Personal check (processed electronically as a bank draft)

Important:

  • Credit and debit card payments include a processing fee

  • Bank draft (ACH) payments do not include additional fees

For simplicity and to avoid processing fees, many guests choose bank draft (ACH).

Phone Registration
For security and legal compliance, registrations are not accepted over the phone.

What's included

Airfare

Round-trip airfare from Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW), including air taxes and fuel surcharges (alternate airports available upon request).

Transportation/Transfers

All ground transportation, hotel transfers, and baggage handling are included.

Tour Manager

Professional Collette Tour Manager at destination throughout your journey.

Lodging

8 nights hotel accommodations throughout Costa Rica.

Meals

Includes 14 meals (8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, & 5 dinners) during the tour.

Admissions & Sightseeing

All sightseeing, experiences, and admissions as outlined in the itinerary.

Experiences

Includes immersive experiences such as a coffee plantation visit, Caño Negro wildlife safari, farm-to-table cultural experience, Lake Arenal cruise, and Monteverde Cloud Forest exploration.

What's not included

Hometown Pickup

Optional Hometown Pickup Service (roundtrip airport transportation) is available for $150 per person.

Travel Protection

Optional Travel Protection is available and explained during the booking process.

Gratuities

Gratuities for your Tour Manager and local staff are not included. We recommend budgeting approximately $15–$20 per person, per day.

Airline Bag Fees

Checked baggage fees and seat assignment fees are not included and vary by airline.

Personal Expenses

Items of a personal nature such as beverages, souvenirs, laundry, and optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Travel Documents

Passports and any required travel documentation are the responsibility of the traveler.

Meals Not Listed

Meals not specifically listed in the itinerary are not included.

Location

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1. San José Province, San José, Costa Rica

San José Province, San José, Costa Rica

About your organizer

AT
American Tours
Thanks to all of you who have chosen to travel with us in the past. Welcome to those who enjoy the adventure and rewards of exploring new places, meeting new people and experiencing the personal attention to which we are committed. Our success is attributable to your satisfaction. We measure that success by the enjoyment, appreciation and learning you experience when you travel with us. We are a professional travel company, and have been taking trips for over 30 years! Join us as we traverse the globe and seek out exciting places to vi

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