Natural Splendours of Costa Rica

Fly from London (regional connections available) to San José with British Airways. Transfer to the Crowne Plaza Corobici Hotel for 2 nights. (N)

In the morning, visit Poas or Irazú volcano and see its impressive crater and surroundings. Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Shared overland transfer to Caño Blanco on the Caribbean coast. Cruise through the canals and backwaters that lead to Tortuguero, looking for birdlife, monkeys, sloths and other wildlife. Stay for 2 nights at Mawamba Lodge or similar. (B, L, D)

Full day of shared local excursions in Tortuguero. From July to September, an option is available to observe turtles nesting on the beach. (B, L, D)

Return to Caño Blanco by boat and drive to Arenal, visiting La Selva Biological Station en route. Learn about the scientific and conservation work of the researchers and take a short walk in the protected rainforest surroundings. Stay 2 nights at Arenal Paraiso, with views of the Arenal volcano. (B, L)

Full-day tour to Caño Negro, an important wetland habitat for a range of bird species. (B, L)

Shared boat across Lake Arenal, taking in the spectacular views of the lake and its surroundings. Continue to Monteverde for 2 nights at the Fonda Vela Hotel. Afternoon visit to the Selvatura Butterfly Garden & Walkways and explore the treetop canopy from its hanging bridges. (B)

Morning tour of the Monteverde cloud forest, a habitat for rare flora and fauna, such as the colourful quetzal bird. Afternoon visit to a typical family-run farm to learn about coffee and sugar cane production. (B, L)

Return to San José via the town of Sarchí, home to traditional handicrafts and colourfully painted oxcarts. Stay overnight at the Crowne Plaza Corobici Hotel. (B)

Transfer to the airport for a flight to London with British Airways. (B) (N)