Costa Rican Flavors

A Pura Vida Culinary Adventure

9-Day International Trip

Costa Rican Flavors

Discover the vibrant heart of Costa Rica on this 9-day culinary journey.
From bustling San José to the volcanic highlands of Arenal and the peaceful beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula, this experience blends bold flavors, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural traditions.

Visit renowned coffee estates, make chocolate from bean to bar, and cook alongside local chefs. Meet the artisans, farmers, and culinary keepers who shape Costa Rica’s food culture. In Nicoya’s famed Blue Zone, explore the wellness practices that support some of the world’s longest-living people. From rustic feasts to modern fusion, every meal tells a story—and every stop brings you closer to the spirit of Pura Vida.

Trip Highlights

San José: Begin and end your journey in Costa Rica’s lively capital. Enjoy a traditional welcome dinner on your first night. After exploring the countryside, return for Noche Tica—a festive evening of dance, music, and local cuisine. Wrap up your trip with a modern culinary tour of Barrio Escalante, including a coffee workshop, cocktail tasting, and an eight-course chef’s menu.
Arenal Region: Travel to the lush volcanic highlands surrounding Arenal Volcano. Hike the lava trails of Arenal 1968, take part in a chocolate-making workshop, and enjoy a scenic picnic. At Vida Campesina, gather ingredients from the farm, press sugar cane, and prepare a traditional dinner in a hands-on cooking class.
Nicoya Peninsula (Blue Zone): Spend three nights in serene Nicoya, one of the world’s five Blue Zones. Visit a permaculture farm rooted in Chorotegan tradition, and explore the region on a Side-by-Side Blue Zone Circuit tour. Enjoy beachfront BBQs, chef-led dinners, and optional wellness and cultural activities at Punta Islita.

You can view the full itinerary by clicking the detailed Itinerary tab above.

9-Day International Trip

Costa Rican Flavors

Explore Costa Rica’s rich culinary scene on an 9-day adventure from San José to Arenal and the Nicoya Blue Zone. Enjoy farm-to-table meals, coffee farm tours, and breathtaking landscapes, all infused with the spirit of Pura Vida.

Multiple Departures

$4,997 Double

$6,537 Single

or call 1-888-426-1993

Trip Details

Price

Choose the date that works best for your Costa Rican culinary adventure and immerse yourself in this unforgettable experience:

January 21–29, 2026: $4,997 per person
Start the year with an incredible journey through Costa Rica’s vibrant flavors, lush landscapes, and cultural treasures. This peak-season departure ensures the most idyllic weather for your adventure.
April 21–29, 2026: $4,997 per person
Experience the magic of spring in Costa Rica. Enjoy the same exceptional experiences and destinations as the January tour, but in a season when the lush landscapes burst into bloom.

Single Supplement: An additional $1,540 applies for solo travelers.

Note: Prices are per person based on double occupancy and include all outlined inclusions.

Trip Length

This 9-day, 8-night international tour offers a fully immersive Costa Rican culinary adventure, highlighting the rich flavors and vibrant culture of the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle.

Dates

This unforgettable culinary journey through Costa Rica is available on two exclusive dates in 2026:

January 21–29, 2026
Escape the winter blues and experience Costa Rica’s warm hospitality, vibrant flavors, and lush landscapes during the perfect season for adventure.
April 21–29, 2026
Celebrate the renewal of spring with a flavorful getaway, exploring Costa Rica’s natural beauty and culinary heritage in full bloom.

Choose the date that works best for you and immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime Costa Rican experience!

Meeting Point

The trip will begin at O'Hare International Airport unless otherwise arranged. Your tour representative will meet you at the designated meeting area to ensure a smooth start to your Costa Rican adventure. If alternative departure arrangements are made, we will provide detailed instructions in advance.

Ending Point

The trip will conclude at O'Hare International Airport. After your Costa Rican adventure, your tour representative will ensure a smooth end to your journey. If alternative arrangements have been made for your return, we will provide detailed instructions to ensure a seamless departure.

Group Size

Intimate groups of 10 to 24 travelers for a personalized and immersive experience.

Our Costa Rica Culinary Tour is designed for an intimate group size, with only 10 to 24 guests. This small-group experience allows for a personalized and immersive journey, giving you the chance to connect with local chefs, guides, and fellow travelers on a deeper level. With fewer participants, you'll enjoy more flexibility, exclusive access to unique experiences, and a closer look at Costa Rica’s vibrant food culture. Join us for a truly special adventure that blends camaraderie, discovery, and the essence of 'Pura Vida' in every moment.

Included

Airfare: Round-trip airfare to San Jose, Costa Rica, and return to the US.

Accommodation: 8 nights of accommodation in 4-star hotels:

3 nights in a 4 star hotel in San Jose (start and end of trip)
2 nights at a 4 star hotel in Arenal
3 nights at Punta Islita in Nicoya Peninsula

Welcome Dinner: Onsite orientation with a welcome dinner.

Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners as outlined in the itinerary.

Activities: All entrance fees for cultural site excursions, tours, and visits to food artisans, including.

Transportation: Private motorcoach transportation for the duration of the tour, including all transfers between destinations.

Local Guide: Fully escorted tour with an English-speaking local guide and trip representative.

Gratuities: All gratuities for meals, tour guide, escort, and driver.

Taxes and Service Charges: All applicable taxes and service charges included.

Not Included

Airport Parking & Transfers: Parking at your departure airport and transfers to/from your home to the airport are not included.

Meals & Beverages: We include most meals during the tour. However, there may be occasions when lunch or dinner is not provided, allowing you the opportunity to explore local restaurants and enjoy regional cuisine on your own.

Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or data charges.

Passport Fees: Passport fees are not included. (No visa is required for U.S. citizens visiting Costa Rica.)

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included but is strongly recommended to protect your investment. We are happy to assist you in securing coverage.

Additional Notes

Physical Activity: Some excursions involve walking on uneven surfaces, such as rainforest trails, volcanic paths, and village streets. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are highly recommended.

Weather Considerations: In January and April, Costa Rica enjoys warm, dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). These months are part of the dry season, particularly in coastal areas and the Central Valley. However, higher elevations, like San José, may experience cooler evenings. While rain is uncommon, especially in April, occasional showers can still occur, particularly in rainforests and coastal regions.

What to Wear/Pack for Costa Rica: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and swimwear for beach or water activities. Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially in higher elevations. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a light rain jacket or poncho, as occasional showers can occur, especially in rainforests.

Currency: The local currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and credit cards are commonly used, but we recommend carrying small amounts of local cash for smaller purchases, such as snacks or souvenirs at local markets.

Costa Rica Time Zone: Costa Rica operates on Central Standard Time (CST) year-round and does not observe daylight saving time. This means that Costa Rica is 1 hour behind the U.S. Central Time Zone during daylight saving time (CST) and is in the same time zone during standard time.

Voltage: Costa Rica uses 120V electricity, with a frequency of 60Hz, the same as in the U.S. and Canada. The power outlets typically accept Type A and Type B plugs, which are the same as those used in North America. If your devices have a different plug type or voltage requirement, be sure to bring a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Dietary Restrictions: Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies ahead of time so we can coordinate with our culinary partners to accommodate your needs.

Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the tour ends. No visa is required for U.S. citizens visiting Costa Rica for tourism.

Terms and Conditions: Please read our trip terms and conditions.

See itinerary for more information

Itinerary

View printable itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to to the Heart of Costa Rica

Airfare from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJO) | Private Airport Transfer | Overnight in San José | Welcome Dinner included

Arrive in San José and begin your Costa Rican adventure with a warm welcome and your first taste of local cuisine.

Highlights:

Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (San José)
Private transfer to your 4-star hotel in downtown San José
Welcome dinner featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes

Day 2 Coffee, Crafts, and Culture

Overnight in Arenal | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Depart San Jose and dive into Costa Rica’s rich traditions, from world-class coffee and colorful oxcarts to the scenic beauty of Arenal Volcano.

Highlights:

Scenic drive from San Jose to Arenal
Guided tour of Hacienda Doka coffee estate, including:
- Wet mill visit
- Free time to explore the Butterfly house, bonsai garden, and hydroponic orchard
- Welcome cold coffee cocktail, coffee-infused chocolates, and unlimited coffee tastings
Traditional Costa Rican lunch in Sarchi
Visit to artisan workshops and hand-painted oxcarts in Sarchi
Check-in at 4-star hotel in Arenal
Dinner at the hotel restaurant

Day 3 A Day of Chocolate, Volcanoes, and Costa Rican Culture

Overnight in Arenal | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Explore Costa Rica through cacao, craters, and countryside life on a day full of hands-on experiences and unforgettable flavors.

Highlights:

Rainforest Chocolate Tour
- Hands-on chocolate-making experience
- Learn about the ancient history of cacao as currency and ceremony
- Taste fresh, handmade chocolate
Guided hike at Arenal 1968 Reserve
- Walk along historic lava flows with views of Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake
- Learn about the volcano’s eruptions and ecological recovery
- Picnic lunch with scenic volcano vistas
Arenal Vida Campesina farm experience
- Participate in harvesting and traditional sugar cane pressing
- Cooking class with local hosts
- Farm-to-table dinner featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes
Return to hotel in Arenal for overnight stay

Day 4 From the Volcanic Highlands to the Mystical Nicoya Peninsula

Overnight in Punta Islita | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Travel from the dramatic beauty of Arenal to the peaceful, wellness-centered Blue Zone of Punta Islita, with a special stop to explore Costa Rica’s artisanal roots.

Highlights:

Breakfast at your hotel in Arenal with final views of the volcano
Transfer to the Nicoya Peninsula with English-speaking guide
Cultural stop in Cañas:
- Visit to La Cuchara de la Abuela ceramic workshop
- Live demonstration of traditional Costa Rican pottery
- Typical regional lunch featuring local dishes
Afternoon arrival and check-in at Punta Islita hotel
Immersion into Blue Zone culture and lifestyle
Dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional Blue Zone cuisine
Overnight stay in Punta Islita

Day 5 Exploring the Heart of the Blue Zone

Overnight in Punta Islita | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Experience the soul of Costa Rica’s Blue Zone through local traditions, scenic exploration, and a sunset beachside feast.

Highlights:

Breakfast at Hotel Punta Islita with ocean views
Shared Blue Zone Circuit Tour (approx. 2.5–3 hours)
- Travel by Side by Side (mulita) through nearby towns and countryside
- Shop for local art and handcrafted goods
- Taste regional dishes and learn about traditional lifestyles
- Gain insights into the health and longevity of Guanacaste’s centenarians
Afternoon at leisure to relax or explore the resort and surroundings
BBQ dinner by the beach at Hotel Punta Islita
Overnight stay in Punta Islita

Day 6 A Serene Day of Leisure at Punta Islita

Overnight in Punta Islita | Breakfast & Dinner included

Slow down and soak in the Blue Zone lifestyle with a day of personalized relaxation and meaningful cultural connection in paradise.

Highlights:

Breakfast at Hotel Punta Islita with fresh local and international fare
Full day at leisure to relax or participate in resort activities
Dinner at the hotel’s restaurant
Overnight stay in Punta Islita

Day 7 From the Harmony of Islita to the Heartbeat of San José

Overnight in San José | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Travel from the serenity of Punta Islita back to the capital with meaningful stops and a festive farewell to Costa Rican culture.

Highlights:

Breakfast at Hotel Punta Islita
Guided permaculture tour at Tierra de Yu
- Learn about self-sustaining ecosystems and ancestral Chorotega farming practices
- Discover how natural elements are integrated for sustainable living
Scenic 4-hour private transfer from Punta Islita to San José
Lunch at a local restaurant en route
Check-in at your centrally located 4-star hotel in San José
Evening cultural experience at Mirador Tiquicia in Escazú, including:
- “Noche Tica” show featuring traditional dance and music
- Dinner with local cuisine and national beverages
- Panoramic views over the Central Valley
Overnight stay in San José

Day 8 A Culinary Exploration of Modern Costa Rican Cuisine in San José

Overnight in San José | Breakfast, Lunch/Dinner included

Savor the bold and creative spirit of modern Costa Rican cuisine on a dynamic food tour through San José’s trendiest neighborhood.

Highlights:

Leisurely morning with breakfast at your hotel
Free time to explore or relax in San José
Afternoon/Evening 4.5-hour guided culinary tour of Barrio Escalante, including:
- Coffee workshop exploring the bean-to-cup process of local brews
- Mixology session with signature cocktails and expert bartenders
- Visits to four distinct dining venues, each led by innovative local chefs
- Eight-course tasting menu highlighting contemporary Costa Rican cuisine
- Opportunity to engage with chefs and restaurateurs about culinary traditions and trends
Return to hotel for a relaxed evening
Overnight stay in San José