Nature and beach

First breakfast with the group, then a full tour of a coffee plantation on the slopes of Poás: from red cherry to cup, including roasting and tasting. After a typical lunch, a stop in Grecia and Sarchí, home of the Costa Rican painted oxcarts, before the scenic climb into the Tilarán mountain range up to Monteverde. In the evening, a guided night walk in the forest, flashlight in hand: the jungle takes on a different face after dark — and this excursion is included.

Morning guided exploration in one of the great reserves Monteverde (Curi-Cancha, Santa Elena…): 400 bird species, orchids, mosses — and perhaps the resplendent quetzal. In the afternoon, ascend via suspension bridges in a private reserve, your gaze level with the canopy. At the end of the day, stop at a hummingbird garden where dozens of individuals flit around feeders.

Craving adrenaline? Ziplines can replace suspension bridges (on-site fees apply).

Scenic drive through the Tilarán mountain range and along the lake: coffee break with a view, craft stalls, and spontaneous stops as soon as a coati or toucan appears. Check into a charming hotel at the foot of the volcano. Arenal, then relax by the pool or go for a guided nature walk. Dinner at the hotel.

Tonight's optional activity: volcano-heated thermal baths (included in some hotels on the tour, otherwise a fee applies on site).

Morning on the trails of the Volcano Park Arenal old lava flows, views of the perfect cone, and a real-life volcanology lesson from your guide. Costa Rican lunch at a small farm on the other side, followed by a tour of its plantations and biomass digester - sustainable development, tropical style. Free afternoon: swimming pool, gardens, or a trip to La Fortuna.

After breakfast, your guide says goodbye: it's time for the «beach» part of the combo. Shuttle to the Pacific coast and check into a beachfront hotel nestled between rainforest and ocean, at the quiet end of Jacó beach. Pool facing the waves, tropical gardens, first sunset over the Pacific: the rhythm changes – and that's exactly the point.

Full day at leisure in Jacó: relax on the beach, swim, surf, or get a massage. The hotel staff can organize a boat trip, a visit to Carara Park, or an excursion to Manuel Antonio (fees apply locally). Breakfast is included; for lunch and dinner, indulge in the area's great restaurants.

Breakfast overlooking the ocean, then shuttle to the international airport. San Jose — Schedule a flight departing after 4 p.m. End of services… unless a Toucan extension keeps you in Costa Rica for a few more days.