I see that there is transportation available from La Fortuna to Monteverde but I we were thinking of renting a car. Can we follow the bus to the next destination? Is it a pretty easy drive to the next destination if we go on our own?

Yes, you can absolutely choose to rent a car instead of taking the included transportation. However, it's not possible to follow the bus, as transfers may vary in timing, routes, and occasional stops along the way, you can use google maps or Waze. Driving from La Fortuna to Monteverde on your own is definitely doable, but please keep in mind that the route includes some unpaved roads, especially as you approach Monteverde. While the drive is scenic and enjoyable, we generally recommend a 4x4 vehicle for a more comfortable and safer journey. If you're comfortable driving in these conditions, it can be a great and flexible option!

How do I handle medical emergencies during the tour?

For medical emergencies, immediate care is coordinated through our local support, and we also provide details for insurance and emergency contact numbers.

What are the transfer options from Monteverder if my flight is early in the morning?

You should arrange a private transfer from Monteverde to the airport, which we recommend scheduling at least 3 hours before your flight for international travel.

We are 3 people and are thinking of booking the tour, starting Monday, January 27th. Given that we are 3, wanted to ask if there is a chance for a discount on the tour - we would really appreciate that!

Please can you respond to us today as we are looking to find a tour to book

Can we be picked up at the start of the tour at our hotel in San Jose instead of the Airport?

Yes, we can coordinate the pickup from San Jose hotel location without problem. When you make the reservation, please let us know the name of the hotel.

Is there any penalty for early withdrawal from the account?

A penalty is applied for early withdrawal from the account; details are subject to the specific account terms agreed upon.

Can I customize the tour itineraries?

Tour itineraries can sometimes be customized to meet specific requirements. Please inquire about the possibilities.

Want private tour with 2 adults and 2 teenage kids (16 and 14). Interested in San Jose airport pickup, pass Alajuela, La Paz water fall, garden nature park and Poàs Volcano, Arsenal volcano and lake. Want 2 nights in Poàs area and 2 nights in Arsenal area. Need details on hotel, transportation, sightseeing, and meals costs. Plan to travel November 5th to Nov 10th.

Itinerary could be: Nov 05 - Nov 06 in Poas, Nov 07 - Nov 08 in Arenal, Nov 09 - Nov 10 in Monteverde. Options for accommodation: one room with two beds or 02 rooms (2 adults in room 01, 2 teenage kids in room 02).

How can I pay for the tour and what are the terms?

Tour payment can be completed through multiple channels including bank transfers, credit cards, and online platforms, each abiding by specific payment terms and conditions.

Looking to travel during the period of the 6th April til the 18th april. The group consists of 2 adults and a 7 year old. What do you offer?

For 2 adults, 1 minor, we can offer one room with 02 double beds. Short break itinerary option, we recommend arriving a day prior the itinerary begins for the connection from the airport to the first hotel. In those travel dates we have all our itineraries available.

From

$1,275

US $1,148 per person

Arenal and Monteverde, Short Break

4 days

•

From San Jose to Alajuela

4.0 (2 reviews)

View all
Wonderful variety. I loved listening to the sounds of the river and the wind blowing through the trees.
Matthew•traveled in April5.0
View all

From

$1,275

-10%

US $1,148 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Platinum Operator: Destination Services Costa Rica
Nature & Wildlife: Explore untamed landscapes teeming with wildlife
Group Tour: Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Partially Guided: Independent travel, featuring selected guided excursions
Low Intensity: Travelers can expect some light physical activities
Guided in English: Other languages on request: Spanish
Group Size 1 - 30
All Ages Welcome

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Intro
Introduction
Day 1
La Fortuna de San Carlos
La Fortuna de San Carlos
Start point
Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría (SJO), Ruta Nacional 1, Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica (Pick up at Juan Santamaria International Airport, 00:00 - 23:00)
Meals
Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel 3* (Hotel Lomas del Volcán), Hotel 4* (Arenal Manoa)
Included Activities
- Hot springs experience with thermal pools and waterfalls in tropical forest setting
- Meet and Greet service at airport
Landmarks
Arenal Volcano
Day 2
Arenal
Arenal
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch (Delicious lunch prepared on rustic wood-fired stove at local family home, featuring home-made tortillas)
Accommodation
Hotel 3* (Hotel Lomas del Volcán), Hotel 4* (Arenal Manoa)
Included Activities
- River Safari Float on the wild river with local guide
- Tortilla Making experience at local family home
- Lunch prepared on rustic wood-fired stove
Day 3
Monteverde
Monteverde
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 3* (Monteverde Country Lodge), Hotel 3* (El Establo Mountain Hotel)
Included Activities
- Crossing Arenal Lake by pontoon boat
- Walking tour in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Continental Divide viewing experience
Landmarks
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Continental Divide
Day 4
San Jose
San Jose
End point
Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría (SJO), Ruta Nacional 1, Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica (Drop off at Juan Santamaria International Airport, 00:00 - 23:00)
Meals
Breakfast

Landmarks
Arenal Volcano

Landmarks
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Continental Divide

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What's Included

Expand All

Accommodation
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Flights
Insurance
Optional
Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

All accommodations are subject to change

Hotel Lomas del Volcán
Hotel 3*
Days 1, 2
Arenal Manoa
Hotel 4*
Days 1, 2
Monteverde Country Lodge
Hotel 3*
day 3
El Establo Mountain Hotel
Hotel 3*
day 3

Operated by

Destination Services Costa Rica

Platinum Operator

Rating: 4.4 (386 reviews)
Response time: within 1 day
Response rate: 100%
Cancellation policy: Learn more

Traveler Reviews

4.0

Overall rating based on 2 Reviews

Itinerary
4.0
Transport
4.5
Guide
4.0
Accommodation
4.0
Food
3.5
Tour Operator
4.4

JENNY3.0•May 2022
This isn't an actual tour with a guide, this is independent travel with bookings of hotels, transportation and some...
This isn't an actual tour with a guide, this is independent travel with bookings of hotels, transportation and some activities made for you. For some reason, there is no possibility for customization. Even though you are by yourself the whole time. Knowing what I know now, I could have easily put this together myself especially since I had to do a lot of work with all the errors made. Wrong hotels for pick up, tranfers not showing up, weird timings to give you only one hour for dinner when ordering already took 20 minutes. There also seems to be no continuity in communication because I would get asked the same questions over and over again. For example asking me what hotel to be picked up from when they are the ones telling me which hotel I am staying in. The highlights of the trip were the additional activities that I booked separately. My recommendation is to accept you're going to pay a lot for a private transfer to your first hotel. After that arrange the activities through your hotel. You will get a better itinerary, timing that suits you and probably for cheaper.Show more
Traveled in April 2022
Reply from: Destination Services Costa Rica
Dear Jenny, Thank you very much for taking the time to provide us feedback. All your comments are essential to improve our service. All the best, Destination Services Costa Rica Team.
Show more
Matthew5.0•April 2022
Great trip. Wonderful variety. The safari float was relaxing. I loved listening to the sounds of the river and the...
Show more
Traveled in March 2022
Reply from: Destination Services Costa Rica
Thanks so much for your feedback!, we really appreciate the time you took to write such a review!. Hope soon you come back to Costa Rica!!
Show more

Dates & Prices

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Upcoming departures

Hurry, deals only available for a limited time!

Ends in2d2h35m8s

Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Wednesday
7 Oct, 2026
To Saturday
10 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Thursday
8 Oct, 2026
To Sunday
11 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Friday
9 Oct, 2026
To Monday
12 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Saturday
10 Oct, 2026
To Tuesday
13 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Sunday
11 Oct, 2026
To Wednesday
14 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Monday
12 Oct, 2026
To Thursday
15 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Tuesday
13 Oct, 2026
To Friday
16 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Wednesday
14 Oct, 2026
To Saturday
17 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Thursday
15 Oct, 2026
To Sunday
18 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
-10%
From Friday
16 Oct, 2026
To Monday
19 Oct, 2026
English, Spanish
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$1,275
US$1,148 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room

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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.

All questions

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Try a different search term or ask a question to this adventure's experts

T
Timothy
Asked on April 15th, 2026
I see that there is transportation available from La Fortuna to Monteverde but I we were thinking of renting a car. Can we follow the bus to the next destination? Is it a pretty easy drive to the next destination if we go on our own?
Tour Details
Transport
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written April 2026
  Yes, you can absolutely choose to rent a car instead of taking the included transportation. However, it's not possible to follow the bus, as transfers may vary in timing, routes, and occasional stops along the way, you can use google maps or Waze.
  
  Driving from La Fortuna to Monteverde on your own is definitely doable, but please keep in mind that the route includes some unpaved roads, especially as you approach Monteverde. While the drive is scenic and enjoyable, we generally recommend a 4x4 vehicle for a more comfortable and safer journey.
  If you're comfortable driving in these conditions, it can be a great and flexible option!
B
Belinda
Asked on March 27th, 2025
How do I handle medical emergencies during the tour?
Travel Support
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written March 2025
  For medical emergencies, immediate care is coordinated through our local support, and we also provide details for insurance and emergency contact numbers.
C
Claudia
Asked on January 21st, 2025
What are the transfer options from Monteverder if my flight is early in the morning?
Flights / Transfers
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written January 2025
  You should arrange a private transfer from Monteverde to the airport, which we recommend scheduling at least 3 hours before your flight for international travel.
L
Louise
Asked on January 8th, 2025
We are 3 people and are thinking of booking the tour, starting Monday, January 27th. Given that we are 3, wanted to ask if there is a chance for a discount on the tour - we would really appreciate that!
Group size
Price / Availability
- L
  Louise
  Traveler•Written January 2025
  Please can you respond to us today as we are looking to find a tour to book
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written January 2025
  Thanks for your interest in this adventure. You made the right choice, with us you'll discover Costa Rica with the locals. I'll be here to assist and to answer all your questions. Please check the rate and discount. All the dates are guaranteed, so once you'll take your decision, you will just have to click on 'Book now' and we'll be able to confirm your demand right away!
I
Irene
Asked on December 9th, 2024
Can we be picked up at the start of the tour at our hotel in San Jose instead of the Airport?
Tour Details
Transport
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written December 2024
  Yes, we can coordinate the pickup from San Jose hotel location without problem. When you make the reservation, please let us know the name of the hotel.
J
Jochen
Asked on November 19th, 2024
Is there any penalty for early withdrawal from the account?
Other
Payments
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written November 2024
  A penalty is applied for early withdrawal from the account; details are subject to the specific account terms agreed upon.
M
Madeleine
Asked on November 12th, 2024
Can I customize the tour itineraries?
Tour Details
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written November 2024
  Tour itineraries can sometimes be customized to meet specific requirements. Please inquire about the possibilities.
L
Larry
Asked on November 3rd, 2024
Want private tour with 2 adults and 2 teenage kids (16 and 14). Interested in San Jose airport pickup, pass Alajuela, La Paz water fall, garden nature park and Poàs Volcano, Arsenal volcano and lake. Want 2 nights in Poàs area and 2 nights in Arsenal area. Need details on hotel, transportation, sightseeing, and meals costs. Plan to travel November 5th to Nov 10th.
Accommodation
Group size
Tour Details
Transport
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written November 2024
  Itinerary could be: Nov 05 - Nov 06 in Poas, Nov 07 - Nov 08 in Arenal, Nov 09 - Nov 10 in Monteverde. Options for accommodation: one room with two beds or 02 rooms (2 adults in room 01, 2 teenage kids in room 02).
S
Salma
Asked on October 10th, 2024
How can I pay for the tour and what are the terms?
Payments
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written October 2024
  Tour payment can be completed through multiple channels including bank transfers, credit cards, and online platforms, each abiding by specific payment terms and conditions.
J
Jason
Asked on October 6th, 2024
Looking to travel during the period of the 6th April til the 18th april. The group consists of 2 adults and a 7 year old. What do you offer?
Age Range
Group size
Tour Details
- Destination Services Costa RicaOperator•Written October 2024
  For 2 adults, 1 minor, we can offer one room with 02 double beds. Short break itinerary option, we recommend arriving a day prior the itinerary begins for the connection from the airport to the first hotel. In those travel dates we have all our itineraries available.

From

$1,275

-10%

US $1,148 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Good to Know

Tour ID: 204255

Currency
₡
Costa Rican Colon
Costa Rica
Plugs & Adapters
As a traveler from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B.
Type A
Costa Rica
Type B
Costa Rica
Vaccines
- These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
- Typhoid - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Hepatitis A - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Hepatitis B - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 months before travel.
- Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Costa Rica. Ideally 10 days before travel.
Visa
- Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
- Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
Payment information
- For any tour departing before December 3rd, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after December 3rd, 2026, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with Destination Services Costa Rica. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
- Some departure dates and prices may vary and Destination Services Costa Rica will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
- The following cards are accepted for "Destination Services Costa Rica" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation terms may vary per tour. Please check for the full cancellation policy here.
  Checking the cancellation terms for this tour…
- Your money is protected.
  TourRadar is an authorized agent of Destination Services Costa Rica, and we handle payments so you don't have to. Payment is securely transferred to the Operator based on your departure date.
Insurance
Our travel protection from our award-winning partner, XCover, means you and your travel companions can book with peace of mind knowing there’s protection available in case your trip doesn’t go to plan. At checkout you will be able to select between different options in case you or the tour are eligible for insurance. In case no option is available, you are always able to purchase travel insurance outside of TourRadar.
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Accessibility
Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Arenal and Monteverde, Short Break

Itinerary

Introduction

La Fortuna de San Carlos

Included Activities

Arenal

Included Activities

Monteverde

Included Activities

San Jose

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What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Reviews

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Keep Exploring Costa Rica

Arenal and Monteverde, Short Break

Itinerary

Included Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

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Explore our featured adventures

What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Prices

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