The Northern Loop: Nature, Volcano & Pacific Vibes
Río Celeste, Arenal & Guanacaste – 9 days
Price per person
TRIP DETAILS
This Costa Rica itinerary (9 days) begins in the lush rainforests of Río Celeste, where you’ll hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park and unwind at a boutique jungle lodge. Then, head to Arenal Volcano for a blend of adrenaline and culture with whitewater rafting, a chocolate experience, and breathtaking hikes through hanging bridges and waterfalls.
Your loop closes with a relaxing escape to Playa Flamingo in Guanacaste, known for its soft white sands and dreamy sunsets. Glide across the Pacific on a catamaran, snorkel through marine life, and let the gentle rhythm of the coast bring your adventure to a perfect close.
This itinerary blends rainforest mystique, volcanic thrills, and beachside bliss—an ideal way to discover the true spirit of Costa Rica’s Northern Loop.
Ready to experience the best of Costa Rica in 9 days — lush rainforests, volcano adventures, and sun-kissed beaches — all wrapped into one unforgettable itinerary?
Trip Code: FMCR8-2478
- 8 nights - Rio Celeste (2NT), Arenal (3NT), Flamingo Beach (3NT)
- Private transfer from Liberia Airport to Rio Celeste
- Guided Rio Celeste Hike at National Park
- Private transfer from Rio Celeste to Arenal
- Combo Rafting + Chocolate Tour (L)
- La Fortuna Highlights Tour – Hanging Bridges, Waterfall (L)
- Private transfer Arenal to Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste
- Coastal Catamaran and Snorkeling Cruise
- Private transfer from Flamingo, Guanacaste to Liberia Airport
- Breakfast (8), Lunch (2)
- Taxes and in country 24/7 support
- Río Celeste’s turquoise waters a once-in-a-lifetime sight you’ll remember forever.
- Arenal Volcano adventures: Rafting, chocolate, and rainforest walks, all in one spot.
- Playa Flamingo sunsets relax after days of adventure on a pristine white-sand beach.
- The perfect balance in just a few days, experience rainforest, volcano, and coast without stress.
Arrival to Río Celeste – Stay at Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel
Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival at Liberia’s Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), you’ll meet your local representative who will assist with luggage and guide you to your private transfer. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the scenic drive to Rio Celeste Hotel. Once you arrive, check in, explore the hotel grounds, and take in the serene natural surroundings, preparing for the adventures ahead.
Overnight at Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel.
Hike in Tenorio Volcano National Park & Río Celeste Trails
Today, embark on a remarkable hike to Rio Celeste, the crown jewel of Tenorio Volcano National Park. Legend says God dipped his paintbrush in these waters, but the striking blue comes from sulfur and calcium carbonate. Your guide will lead you to the spectacular Rio Celeste Waterfall, allowing plenty of time to admire and enjoy the milky turquoise waters and the surrounding lush rainforest.
Overnight at Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel.
Meals: B.
Scenic Transfer to Arenal Volcano – Check-in at Arenal Manoa Hotel
Today, travel from Rio Celeste to the iconic Arenal Volcano region, famous for its majestic landscapes and mineral-rich hot springs. Upon arrival, relax at the hotel’s pool or hot springs, enjoy a spa treatment, or savor tropical drinks and farm-to-table dishes. Begin the next day with birdwatching or a cup of coffee on your private patio, taking in stunning views of the volcano.
Overnight at Arenal Manoa Hotel.
Meals: B.
White Water Rafting & Chocolate Combo Tour
Today, enjoy a Sweet Adventure and White Water Rafting on the Rio Balsa. In the morning, learn about cacao, make chocolate, and sample treats. Then, drive to the river, receive a safety briefing, and navigate Class II-III rapids suitable for families. Spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans along the way. End with a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a country estate, embracing the spirit of “Pura Vida.”
Overnight at Arenal Manoa Hotel.
Meals: B,L.
Arenal Hanging Bridges Walk + La Fortuna Waterfall With Lunch
Today’s adventure combines Arenal’s highlights: a rainforest hike across Hanging Bridges and a visit to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can hike and swim. After the tour, enjoy a free afternoon in La Fortuna town to shop for souvenirs, sip coffee, or relax at the park with volcano views. Don’t miss trying Costa Rica’s creamy ice cream or a fruity sorbet like guanábana or mango.
Overnight at Arenal Manoa Hotel.
Meals: B,L.
Transfer to Playa Flamingo – Stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort
Today you’ll leave the rainforest behind and head to Playa Flamingo, known for its white-sand beaches and nearby Catalina Islands, a favorite for divers and anglers. Margaritaville offers a lively vibe with tropical drinks and cocktails. Spend the afternoon by the pool or beach, then enjoy a stunning Pacific sunset. Want a movie night? The resort even has its own theater—ask for tonight’s feature!
Overnight at Margaritaville Beach Resort.
Meals: B.
Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling Tour – Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste
Enjoy breakfast and a relaxed morning at the pool or beach. Midday, you’ll be picked up for your Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour. Spend the afternoon sailing along the scenic coastline with drinks from the open bar. Your crew will stop at a beautiful spot where you can snorkel, swim, or try other water activities before returning to enjoy the sunset on board.
Overnight at Margaritaville Beach Resort.
Meals: B, Cold Lunch.
Relaxing Free Day in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica
Relax by the pool or beach, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage, facial, or spa service. Tip: Ask a mixologist for a Passionfruit Margarita with a dash of Lizano tabasco—it’s unforgettable! If you’d like more adventure, Guanacaste offers endless options like scuba diving, sloth tours, ziplines, ATVs, and more. Just ask for recommendations to make the most of your day.
Overnight at Margaritaville Beach Resort.
Meals: B.
Departure Day – Transfer to Liberia International Airport
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your private transfer to Liberia’s Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) for your flight home. As you depart, carry with you unforgettable memories of Costa Rica—the warmth of the Ticos, breathtaking sights, and the amazing adventures you’ve experienced. A perfect ending to a journey filled with nature, culture, and pura vida spirit.
Meals: B.
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Rio Celeste Hideaway
The Truly Authentic Rainforest Experience
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Rio Celeste Hideaway is a small resort-style and ecologically conscious hotel that provides a truly unique experience. We’re located just an hour’s drive from the Arenal volcano and next to the Tenorio Volcano National Park, where the amazing Rio Celeste gains its sky-blue color. -
Arenal Manoa Hotel
Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Costa Rica countryside at Hotel Arenal Manoa. Stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, warm, friendly hospitality and fresh, seasonal and local cuisine come together to create one of Costa Rica’s most relaxing resorts.
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Margaritaville Beach Resort
Escape to Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo for a tropical getaway featuring golden sands, lush gardens, and ocean vistas. Indulge your senses at OnZen Spa, lounge on the pristine beach, or enjoy paddleboarding on the Pacific waves. Relax by the sparkling outdoor pool and sip a cocktail at the swim-up pool bar.
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Rio Celeste Hideaway
Location:
Rio Celeste
Ecofriendly (CST):
Services:
Room Types
Casita Deluxe Forest View

Casita Deluxe Garden View

Arenal Manoa Hotel
Location:
La Fortuna
Ecofriendly (CST):
Services:
Room Types
Junior Suites

Junior Suite Superior

Premium Suite with Hot Tub

Margaritaville Beach Resort
Location:
Flamingo - Conchal
Ecofriendly (CST):
Services:
Room Types
Standard

Family Studio

Garden Poolside

Pool View

Family Bunkbed Junior Suite

Ocean View Suite
Honeymoon Suite
Jimmy Buffett 2 BR Suite
Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike from Hideaway Hotel
The best hiking tour in Rio Celeste is here!
View more- Bilingual certified guides
- Transportation from/to Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel
- Entrance Fee
- Energy bar
- Sunscreen
- Long pants
- Repellent
- Walking Shoes
- Water bottle
- Extra Clothes
Chocolate Tour and White Water Rafting Class 2 and 3
Take a taste tour through the history of chocolate making followed by an action-packed day on the river.
View more- Bilingual certified guides
- Transportation from/to La Fortuna Hotels
- Lunch
- Towels
- Ice cold drinks
- Fruit and snacks on the river
- Sunscreen
- Bathing suit
- Extra Clothes
- River clothes that dry fast (shorts and t-shirt are best)
- Secure shoes (Sports Sandals and water shoes are best)
Arenal Hanging Bridges & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike with Typical Lunch
Experience a combination of some of the best attractions Arenal has to offer: hanging bridges and La Fortuna Waterfall. It is a fantastic introduction to the Arenal area.
View more- Bilingual certified guides
- Transportation from/to La Fortuna Hotels
- Delicious Lunch
- Bathing suit
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Repellent
- Extra Clothes
- Comfortable clothes
- Towel
- Closed Shoes
Sunset Catamaran Sailing and Snorkeling in Guanacaste
Sail the Papagayo Gulf and snorkel in crystal-clear waters on this unforgettable catamaran tour. Perfect for ocean lovers.
View more- Bilingual certified guides
- Transportation
- Snorkeling
- Lunch
- Drinks
- Towel
- Sun Hat
- Sunscreen
- Bathing Suit
- Comfortable shoes or sandals
- Vaccination card or copy
Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike from Hideaway Hotel
What’s included
What to bring
Chocolate Tour and White Water Rafting Class 2 and 3
What’s included
What to bring
Arenal Hanging Bridges & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike with Typical Lunch
What’s included
What to bring
Sunset Catamaran Sailing and Snorkeling in Guanacaste
What’s included
What to bring

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