Costa Rica
Explore Costa Rica's extraordinary land habitats & enjoy a 7-night Star Clipper Cruise to Panama
Clipper Tour - 14 Night Itinerary
Discover natural wonders, Tortuguero flooded coastal forest, Arenal volcano and Monteverde cloud forest, and enjoy a 7-night Star Clipper cruise exploring the beautiful Pacific coast, from Manuel Antonio National Park to remote islands.
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Travel Highlights
- Admire towering volcanoes, tropical rainforest and abundant birdwatching
- Explore the backwaters and lagoons of Tortuguero National Park
- Experience the hanging bridges and rainforest canopy of Arenal National Park
- Enjoy a 7-night Star Clipper cruise exploring Costa Rica's beautiful Pacific Coast
- Relive the golden age of travel on the wonderful sailing ship, Star Clipper
- Explore off the beaten track islands and white sandy beaches at Isla Tortuga
- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park, a unique coastal natural paradise
Tour Route
- Fly to San Jose - 2 Nights
- Tortuguero National Park - 2 Nights
- Arenal National Park - 3 Nights
- Puerto Caldera - 1 Night
- Quepos, for Manuel Antonio National Park - 1 Night
- Golfito, Costa Rica - 1 Night
- Coiba National Park, Panama - 1 Night
- Playa Panama, Bahia Culebra - 1 Night
- At sea - 1 Night
- Islas Tortugas - 1 Night
- Fly back to the UK
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of departure date, route, duration, flights, cabin, hotels, transport and excursions.
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Tour Itinerary
Fly to San Jose
2 NightsDay 1 - Fly to San Jose
Day 2 - San Jose tour & Irazu Volcano
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Fly to San Jose
Take a daytime direct British Airways flight to San Jose, arriving the same evening, where you will be met by our representative and taken to your hotel for 2 nights. This is also the opportunity for our guide to provide you advice, explain your programme and answer any questions you may have.
Friday, 05 June 2026
San Jose tour & Irazu Volcano
This morning, with our local guide visit the Irazú Volcano, with its impressive green crater lake rising out of a desolate grey moon landscape. Continue to the stunning Orosí Valley, where the Reventazón River cuts through the surrounding mountains. We visit the Lankester Botanical Gardens, housing thousands of species of plants endemic to Costa Rica. In the afternoon, your guide will take you on a walking tour of San Jose.
Balmoral Hotel
The Balmoral Hotel is located on Avenida Central, San Jose’s most famous street and walking distance to the historic centre. It is easy to visit the Iglesia de la Merced, the cathedral, the central and Morazán parks, as well as the impressive gold and jade museums.
The hotel’s rooms include double beds, complimentary coffee, safe, hair…
Xandari Resort And Spa
Xandari Resort and Spa is perfectly located for excursions to Poas Volcano, La Paz waterfall gardens, and Doka coffee plantation, and is only 30 minutes’ drive from San Jose International airport. Over 3km of scenic trails through coffee and fruit orchards lead into a lush natural tropical setting with a year-round river and five beautiful…
Hotel Alta Las Palomas
Located on the outskirts of San Jose in Santa Ana, the 23 room Hotel Alta is an excellent base to explore the capital city and surrounding attractions, including the Poas Volcano.
Public areas include a swimming pool, excellent dining at the elegant La Luz Restaurant and bar or the more relaxed cafe de Verano.
There are 5…
Tortuguero National Park
2 NightsDay 3 - Travel to Tortuguero National Park
Day 4 - Exploring Tortuguero by boat
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Travel to Tortuguero National Park
Morning transfer through the mountains to the pier where we take a river journey to our lodge deep in the Tortuguero National Park, staying for 3 nights including all meals and a guided boat excursion.
Sunday, 07 June 2026
Exploring Tortuguero by boat
Accompanied by guides, we explore the backwaters and lagoons by boat, observing the abundance of bird species and wildlife in this glorious jungle setting, home to spider monkeys, macaws, three toed sloths, toucans, caiman, otters and many other species.
Pachira Lodge
Pachira Lodge is located only five minutes away from the entrance to Tortuguero National Park. This wild and remote area is only accessible by boat or plane and it takes 5 to 6 hours by land and boat from San Jose. Pachira Lodge offers 96 comfortable rooms with bamboo furniture and ceiling fans. The rooms are…
Aninga Lodge
Located only 5 minutes from Tortuguero National Park and surrounded by a network of picturesque canals, the Aninga Lodge offers a comfortable base to explore.
The lodge has 33 comfortable spacious bungalows with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, hot water and ceiling fans. Public areas include a beautiful swimming pool. an excellent restaurant, bar and a spa…
Manatus hotel
The Manatus Hotel is located 2.5km from Tortuguero town centre, very close to the airstrip that you fly into thus avoiding a long transfer by road. It is also one of the few properties that sit directly on a strip of land separating the Caribbean Sea from several canals. With only 12 bungalows with 2…
Arenal National Park
3 NightsDay 5 - Travel to Arenal National Park
Day 6 - Excursion on Arenal National Park & Trails
Day 7 - At leisure for excursions
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Travel to Arenal National Park
Our journey continues with a drive to Arenal, in the northern tropical lowlands, dominated by the picture-perfect cone of Arenal volcano. Transfer to your chosen hotel or lodge to relax. In the evening, weather permitting, witness the colourful lava flows from the volcano, quite a spectacle.
Tuesday, 09 June 2026
Arenal National Park
Today enjoy a boat ride on Arenal Lake and a guided trek in Arenal National Park, exploring the lush rainforest and admiring the volcano. You will witness the incredible lava flows and understand the flora and fauna of this unique part of Costa Rica. Birdwatchers will enjoy today as Arenal National Park is home to over 500 species of birds.
Wednesday, 10 June 2026
At leisure for excursions
Day free to explore according to your interests. Explore further on a wide range of optional tours and excursions, including a hike in the foothills of the volcano, La Fontana Waterfalls trek, Zip-Wrire, River Rafting, Canopy Walkway, Rio Frio boat trip, Rio Celeste and more.
Arenal Volcano Inn
Arenal Volcano Inn is a cozy hotel located in front of the Arenal Volcano, just minutes away from the main attractions in Arenal National Park.
The hotel has just 25 rooms, from standard to deluxe. Each is air-conditioned with FREE Wi-Fi, private bathroom with shower, cable TV, mini bar, safe and telephone. Choose from a garden…
Arenal Manoa Hotel
Located a short drive from Arenal Volcano in a very natural and private environment, surrounded by the La Palma River, the Arenal Manoa Hotel is an ideal refuge for the great diversity of birds, mammals, lizards, and a large variety of plants. Surrounded by gardens, pastures and animals, the rooms have been designed so that…
Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa
Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa is a green-friendly luxury hotel framed by the crystalline waters of the La Palma and Kioro streams, lush, vibrant gardens and private thermal water spas. It is a peaceful setting for exploring the beauty and exhilarating activities of Arenal Volcano National Park.
There are 53 spacious, air conditioned suites designed for couples…
Puerto Caldera
1 NightDay 8 - Travel to Puerto Caldera and embark the Star Clipper for 7 Nights
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Travel to Puerto Caldera and embark the Star Clipper
Morning at leisure. After lunch, transfer to Puerto Caldera and embark the Star Clipper for your 7-night cruise including all meals and transport ashore at each port of call. Relax in your cabin and enjoy the golden age of travel on your classic sailing ship and you set sail of the beautiful Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
There are 2 different 7-night itineraries and one 9-night itinerary to choose from:
- Costa Rica and Panama from and back to Puerto Caldera (itinerary below). Departing from the UK: 19 and 26 December 2026; 22 & 29 January 2028.
- Costa Rica from Puerto Caldera to Panama (7-nights). Departing the UK: 12 December 2026 and 2 January 2027.
- Costa Rica and Panama (9 nights - 4th February 2028 departure).
Star Clipper
The Star Clipper reflects a proud heritage in every inch of their polished brass and gleaming brightwork. Step aboard and discover a new age of sail, where the traditions of the past are happily married to the comforts and amenities of the present day.
Star Clipper ships are modern cruise ships in every way, created…
Quepos, for Manuel Antonio National Park
1 NightDay 9 - Quepos, for Manuel Antonio National Park
- Full Description
Quepos, for Manuel Antonio National Park
Today, enjoy exploring the small town of Quepos, the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park. Although the rapid rise in ecotourism has meant that Quepos has been descended upon it, has largely retained it's authentic feel. There is a good restaurant scene, the streets are easy to navigate and the locals are friendly.
Golfito, Costa Rica
1 NightDay 10 - Golfito, Costa Rica
- Full Description
Golfito, Costa Rica
Golfito is Costa Rica's most southern port town. It was built for bananas export when the United Fruit Company moved its regional headquarters here in the '30s and remained until it's departure in the 1980s. Today it acts as a gateway to visitors who wish to surf at Pavones or take part in sport-fishing. There are other activities on offer including dolphin watch and kayaking to nearby mangrove forests.
Coiba National Park, Panama
1 NightDay 11 - Coiba National Park, Panama
- Full Description
Coiba National Park, Panama
Nestled off the Pacific coast of Panama, Coiba National Park boasts a rich tapestry of biodiversity within its azure waters and dense rainforest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this pristine sanctuary encompasses the largest island in Central America, Coiba Island, along with 38 smaller islands. A haven for marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and humpback whales, the park's coral reefs teem with vibrant fish species. On land, it shelters rare flora and fauna, including the endemic Coiba spinetail bird. Once a penal colony, its remote location has helped preserve its natural splendor, offering visitors a glimpse into a pristine ecosystem largely untouched by human development.
Playa Panama, Bahia Culebra
1 NightDay 12 - Golfo de Chiriqui, Panama
- Full Description
Golfo de Chiriqui, Panama
Golfo de Chiriqui is home to a national marine park with an area of just over 147 sq km, protecting 25 islands and 19 coral reefs which host abundant wildlife. It's home to howler monkeys, several types of nesting sea turtles and 280 recorded bird species. You can snorkel, surf or kayak in the calm waters or take a big game fishing trip.
At sea
1 NightDay 13 - At sea
- Full Description
At sea
Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, and a peaceful library.
Islas Tortugas
1 NightDay 14 - Islas Tortugas
- Full Description
Islas Tortugas
Your final port of call is Isla Tortuga, widely regarded as the most beautiful island in Costa Rica. With giant coconut palms framing powder soft white sandy beaches that are lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters, this really is a tropical paradise. You can also play beach volleyball, rent a kayak, swim, or even get a ride of a glass-bottom boat. However if you are feeling adventuous you can ride the zip line as part of a canopy tour.
Fly back to the UK
Day 15 - La Paz Waterfall Gardens & fly back to the UK
Day 16 - Arrive in the UK
- Full Description
Fly back to the UK
We arrive back in Puerto Caldera and disembark after breakfast. Transfer to the peaceful La Paz Waterfall Gardens where you can enjoy a relaxing lunch and observe the waterfalls, jaguars, pumas, sloths, monkeys, hummingbirds, snakes, frogs and a lot more. Later transfer to San Jose airport and freshen up in the included business lounge before taking your overnight flight back to the UK.
Friday, 19 June 2026
Arrive in the UK
Arrive back in the UK in the morning.
Price Guidelines
| Season | High Season | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Dates | 12, 19, 26 December 2026; 2nd January 2027; 22, 29 January 2028 and 4 February 2028 | |
| Room Arrangement | First | Deluxe |
| Multiple Travellers - Twin Rooms | £5,976 | £7,544 |
Prices are a guideline per person, for travel within the next year and booking early and are subject to availability. Please see below what is included and request a detailed quotation with a guaranteed price for your specific departure date and for Special Events, Summer, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- 16 Days / 14 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Accommodation as shown on the itinerary
- Breakfast everyday and meals as described on the itinerary
- 7-night Star Clipper cruise including all meals, port transfers and port taxes, based on grade 5 cabin
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides
- Prices are per person
- Prices for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve, Easter on request
Complete a form or call our specialist advisors to start planning your trip. Please provide as much information as possible, and we will aim to respond to your enquiry the same or next working day.
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READY - 3 June 2026
MEXICO - History, Beach, Mayan Pyramids & Lifestyle
PERU - Machu Picchu, Andean Landscapes, Historic Heritage
GALAPAGOS, ECUADOR - Friendly Wildlife on the Islands
BRAZIL NATURE - NEW Atlantic Forest Birdwatching Trails
BRAZIL IMPERIAL - NEW Brazil Royal Family Heritage
HONEYMOONS & CELEBRATIONS - "en Tete-a-Tete"
TRAVEL INSURANCE essential comprehensive cover