At the heart of the parks, from Corcovado to Monteverde

Early departure for the Irazú Volcano, Costa Rica's volcanic peak at 3,432 meters: five craters, fumaroles, and on a clear day, a view that encompasses both oceans. Typical regional lunch, then a drive along the Talamanca High Mountain Range before descending into the Dota Valley: in just a few kilometers, the vegetation shifts to the strange world of the high-altitude jungle—giant bamboo, tree ferns, trees covered in lichens. Check into an eco-lodge on the banks of the Savegre River, at San Gerardo de Dota, and first observation walk with your guide. Dinner by the fireside.

Awaken to the song of hummingbirds, already busy around the lodge. Then, binoculars in hand, you set off with your guide on the trails of San Gerardo de Dota, one of Central America's best spots for viewing the Resplendent Quetzal — your guide follows closely the latest nesting sites spotted. In the afternoon, hike along the river to the waterfall, surrounded by cool, soothing cloud forest scenery. Buffet dinner at the lodge.

You descend the mountain range via Cerro de la Muerte—a short walk to the summit if the weather permits—then the Costanera Sud unfolds its coastal scenery to the village of Sierpe. There, you board: the boat goes down the river, winds through the mangrove, and emerges onto Drake Bay, the gateway to the Osa Peninsula. Two nights in a charming rustic inn, between beach and forest — simple comfort and total immersion. Free afternoon: beach, hammock, or walk with the guide.

Boat departure around 7 AM for Sirena or San Pedrillo station, in the heart of the national park Corcovado — the wildest place in the country, a refuge for species that have become rare elsewhere. A day of exploration on foot between the beach and the primary forest: monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, and with a bit of luck, tapir, peccary, or anteater. Picnic facing the ocean, then return to Drake Bay in the mid-afternoon. Sunset due west and dinner at the inn.

Boat trip back through the mangrove of the Sierpe River—eyes open to the banks—then drive northwest to the national park of Manuel Antonio. After lunch, a guided hike on the trails of the most charismatic of the country's «small» parks: capuchin monkeys, squirrel monkeys, three-toed sloths, and postcard-perfect beaches concentrated on 638 hectares. At the end of the day, settle into a comfortable hotel located directly on the coast of Tárcoles, with a pool and beach within easy reach. Dinner at the hotel.

This morning, enjoy a two-hour cruise on the Guacalillo Estuary and Tárcoles River, on the edge of Carara National Park: home to one of the world's largest populations of American crocodiles, scarlet macaws flying overhead, and dozens of herons and shorebirds – a photographer's dream. Lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation at your hotel's beach and pool. Dinner overlooking the Pacific.

Free morning by the water, then drive to the capital with a classic and always spectacular stop: the Tárcoles bridge and its crocodiles massed below — also an opportunity to hunt for souvenirs at the nearby stalls. Check into your hotel at San Jose In the afternoon, dinner with the group and a quiet evening between the lounge and the pool.

Head to the slopes of the Poás volcano for a complete coffee plantation tour—from red cherry to cup, including roasting and tasting. Enjoy a typical lunch, then stop in Grecia and Sarchí, famous for their painted carts and unique architecture. The road then climbs into the Tilarán mountain range to your eco-lodge. Monteverde. In the early evening, a nocturnal outing with a local specialist guide is included: flashlight in hand, you'll discover the forest as its creatures awaken.

Morning of exploration in one of the great reserves Monteverde Curi-Cancha, Santa Elena, or the Ecological Sanctuary: over 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, and an impossibly beautiful cloud forest. In the afternoon, it’s time for the suspension bridges of a private reserve, allowing you to walk at canopy level. At the end of the day, visit a hummingbird garden where dozens of individuals flit around feeders. Dinner at a pleasant local restaurant.

Fancy some thrills? Ziplines can replace suspension bridges (optional, fees payable locally).

Breakfast in the cool air of Monteverde, then transfer to San José International Airport (plan for a flight departing after 4 PM) — or continue with a beach stay or a nature extension by Toucan.