Costa Rica: following in the Footsteps of the Conquistadors
From 1.877 €

Costa Rica: following in the Footsteps of the Conquistadors

holiday package
Created: Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Ref ID: 30154616
prezzo del pacchetto per persona From
1.877 €
Based on 2 adults
Itinerary
Tours

Day 1: San José

ITALY / SAN JOSÉ (-/-/-)
Ride your way to the Pacific coast!
We propose a 7-night itinerary to explore one of the most ecologically diverse regions of Costa Rica—a journey through contrasting landscapes, rural communities, and lush wild flora. This immersive experience allows you to discover scenic and off-the-beaten-path areas on horseback, crossing ancient river canyons and volcanic sand beaches. We’ll ride along the slopes of Mount Template, through the mystical valley forests, ending with two days of relaxation at one of the country's most iconic destinations: Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica’s most active volcano.

Arrival at San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Meet and greet with our local staff and transfer to a hotel near the airport.
Dinner on your own. Overnight stay.


Day 2:

SAN JOSÉ / CIEN FUEGOS / MARAVILLA HOUSE LODGE (B/L/D)
After breakfast, transfer to Cien Fuegos Eco-Ranch & Stables, located near the Trinidad River in the dry Pacific region—your horseback adventure begins here. Meet the team, get assigned your horse, and depart for a half-day ride toward Hacienda La Maravilla, crossing gentle hills, open plains, and gallery forests along the Cuarros River.
First of three nights at Maravilla House Lodge, nestled in scenic surroundings typical of Costa Rica.


Day 3:

MARAVILLA HOUSE LODGE (B/L/D)
Full day exploring the stunning Pacific Coast and Tivives Crag, where Spanish explorers first landed in 1561.
Depending on tides, enjoy a picnic on the beach or lunch at a local restaurant.
Return to the hacienda for dinner and overnight stay.


Day 4:

MARAVILLA HOUSE LODGE (B/L/D)
Ride through a 1,000-acre private reserve surrounding the hacienda—filled with hills, forests, and rich wildlife.
Enjoy spectacular ocean views. After lunch and some rest at the hacienda, optional afternoon ride to the southern part of the property.
Dinner and overnight stay.


Day 5:

MARAVILLA / ARENAL (B/L/D)
Today’s ride leads toward the Machuca River basin, through the village of Cascajal, and on to the Jesús María River valley, known for melon farming.
After lunch, 3.5-hour transfer to the northern region and Arenal Volcano, which last erupted in 1968 and remains one of the most active in the world. Dinner and overnight stay.


Day 6:

ARENAL (B/L/-)
After breakfast, short transfer to El Silencio, at the volcano’s base, for a 2.5-hour guided nature walk.
Spot monkeys, birds (including toucans), and enjoy stunning views of the volcano and coastline.
Afterward, relax in natural thermal springs.
Dinner on your own and overnight stay.


Day 7:

ARENAL / SAN JOSÉ (B/-/-)
Morning at leisure. Optional activities include ziplining, mountain biking, canoeing.
Afternoon transfer to San José.
Dinner on your own. Overnight stay.


Day 8:

SAN JOSÉ / ITALY (B/-/-)
Breakfast and transfer to the airport in time for your flight back to Italy.

Note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Extensions available upon request (e.g. Cahuita or La Ensenada).

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Difficulty: °°° (Intermediate)
Accommodation: Hotels / Eco-lodges
Tack: English, Western, or McClellan (used by the U.S. Army in the 19th century)
Horses: Creole (Andalusian, Barb, and Peruvian Paso mix), known for their calm temperament and comfortable gaits.
Pace: 4 to 6 hours per day, all gaits. Riders must be comfortable in open terrain.
What to Bring: Layered clothing, waterproof gear, long sleeves for forest rides, chaps, helmet, gloves, waterproof boots, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, and a personal first-aid kit.
Type: Itinerant trek with lodge accommodation

Accommodation
Night 1 & 7: Country Inn Hotel (or similar), San José
Night 2–4: Finca Los Domos or Cerro Lodge (upgrade) near Orotina
Night 5–6: Arenal Montechiari Ecolodge

Highlights of Lodging:
Country Inn Hotel: Comfortable rooms with private bathroom, fridge, TV, Wi-Fi, outdoor pool
Finca Los Domos: Private bungalows with A/C and private bathroom, no Wi-Fi, pool available
Cerro Lodge: Eco-conscious lodge near Carara National Park with private bungalows, garden views, organic composting, and Scarlet Macaw sightings
Arenal Montechiari: Cozy cottages in a lush garden, pool, Wi-Fi, TV, tea/coffee maker, restaurant & bar

Supplements & Reductions
Non-riders: - €280
Children under 11: - €175
Upgrade to Cerro Lodge: On request

prezzo del pacchetto per persona From
1.877 €
Based on 2 adults
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This idea includes
Destinations 1
Tours 1
Tour summary
Included
Round-trip transfer from/to San José airport
All ground transfers as indicated in the program
All meals as specified in the itinerary
7 nights’ accommodation
4 days on horseback (4 to 6 hours per day)
Horses and riding equipment provided
Experienced local guide (Spanish, English, French, German, Italian speaking)
Basic medical assistance insurance
Excluded

International flights to/from San José
Meals not mentioned in the program
Optional tour extensions (quotation available on request)
Meals not specified, airport taxes, drinks outside of meals, tips, personal expenses
Alcoholic beverages
Anything not explicitly listed under “The price includes”
Additional insurance or trip cancellation coverage