13-Day Costa Rica and Panama Walk Highlights – A Pack Free Guided Walking Tour by Life’s An Adventure
Life’s An Adventure presents a 13-day Pack Free guided walking tour that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the natural and cultural wonders of Costa Rica and Panama. This Central American odyssey blends thrilling adventures, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences, offering a truly immersive exploration of these captivating countries. From lush jungles and neon-blue rivers to historic city streets, each day reveals new highlights that make for a journey of a lifetime.
Begin in Costa Rica, where the adventure starts amidst the country’s renowned biodiversity. Trek through the pristine jungles of Corcovado National Park, often considered the world’s most biodiverse place, encountering exotic wildlife and hidden waterfalls along the way. Explore the ethereal cloud forests of Boquete, where misty trails lead you through verdant canopies, and marvel at the vibrant waters of Rio Celeste, famous for its neon-blue hues. The diverse scenery, from tropical rainforests to volcanic landscapes, offers countless opportunities for nature lovers to connect with the stunning environment.
As you journey south, each day brings a blend of adventure and relaxation. Luxuriate in carefully selected jungle hideaways and boutique hotels that provide both comfort and immersion in nature. Experience the beauty of Costa Rica from the doorstep of your accommodations, where you can unwind after a day’s walk surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Gourmet meals featuring local ingredients add a culinary dimension to your journey, enhancing the experience with the rich flavours of Central America.
The tour concludes in Panama, where you’ll explore the historic streets of Panama City’s UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo. Wander through the charming colonial district, with its colourful architecture and lively atmosphere, and learn about the city’s fascinating history. The journey wraps up with a festive dinner, celebrating your adventures and the unforgettable moments shared along the way.
This Life’s An Adventure walking tour is distinguished by its “wow-mazing” inclusions that go beyond just walking. From guided wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries to special activities like a coffee farm visit in Boquete and a canopy tour in Monteverde, each experience is designed to create lasting memories. The tour’s flexible itinerary allows you to walk as much or as little as you choose, with private transfers ensuring a seamless and relaxed travel experience throughout.
Join Life’s An Adventure on this 13-day Costa Rica and Panama walking tour, where the wonders of Central America await. This journey is more than just a holiday—it’s an exploration of some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant wildlife, making for an adventure that will stay with you long after the tour ends.
Carry as little as your water, camera and lunch
This walk is designed as a Pack-Free walking experience, allowing our guests to fully enjoy the landscapes they traverse without the burden of carrying a heavy pack. After all, walks should be enjoyed, not endured. Each day, our guests will walk with a small day pack, big enough to carry essentials such as lunch, water, and a camera. Meanwhile, your larger bags will be conveniently transported to your accommodation each day.
Wow-mazing Inclusion
Costa Rica and Panama offer unique natural beauty, and we make sure you get to see the best. We visit the most well-known national parks that everyone must visit, as well as well-kept secret spots that are just as good.
Wow-mazing Inclusion
Monteverde is a beautiful cloud forest, you visit the national park during the day for a stunning walk. at night you will return for a unique new perspective, the fauna comes alive at night, providing an amazing wildlife experience. Your guide will help point out all the creatures and critters found in the forest, making sure you don’t miss a thing.
Wow-mazing Inclusion
Boquete is a famous coffee region in Panama, you will get an inside look into the production at Don Pepe’s farm. The farm is beautifully located on a hillside with green mountains towering around you, providing stunning views.
Wow-mazing Inclusion
Anton Valley is one of the lesser-known hiking areas in Central America but might be one of the best. The weather is perfect for hiking, and the sunrise here is spectacular. You will get up early to get a once in a lifetime view.
A highlight of your journey will be our handpicked unique accommodations. We choose only the best accommodations in the area, in the most stunning locations.
Most walks on this tour are of easy or moderate difficulty. We take into account all walking paces and skill levels, the walks offer natural enjoyment and cultural enrichment, while challenging you the right amount. With some of the more difficult walks you can always opt for easier options.
Guides are essential in delivering the ultimate walking experience. You’ll be accompanied by local expert guides with passion and enthusiasm for the area and a second host guide one of our experienced Senior Guides from Australia who will accompany you for the entire trip ensuring we deliver a world-class walk up to our high standards.
On this walk you will indulge in superb dining with perfectly matched wines. We visit local’s favourite restaurants, and you will get to experience a variety of cuisines as you traverse the continent. All hotels where we dine have expert chefs allowing you to enjoy fabulous dinners from the comfort of your hotel.
All tours are small and intimate with a maximum group size of 12 people. However, if you have a bigger group please contact us for details.
Your 13-day walking holiday includes:
Superb Boutique hotels
Wow-mazing Experiences
Local produce & wine
Guests will need to organise their own flights to Costa Rica the day prior to the tour.
RECOMMENDED PRE-NIGHT: We suggest staying at the Doubletree by Hilton in San José, Costa Rica, where our pick-up will be arranged. Other hotels in San José are also convenient, but ensure you are at the Doubletree by Hilton before meeting time.
MEETING DETAILS: Meet your driver in the foyer of the Doubletree by Hilton in San José, Costa Rica at 1 pm.
ITINERARY: Your driver will pick you up at the Doubletree in San José at 1 pm. Admire the beautiful landscapes of Costa Rica as you transfer to your accommodation in Tenorio National Park, where a lovely dinner will be prepared by the chefs. The real journey starts tomorrow, so make sure you get a good night’s rest and dream about the adventure to come.
WALK: Rio Celeste, moderate, 5 km, 3 hours. Hanging bridges walk, easy, 3 km, 2 hours.
ITINERARY: After finishing your breakfast made with local produce, you will head to the Rio Celeste waterfall. Famous for its neon blue water, it is a sight that is sure to impress. You’ll make your way down a well-maintained path surrounded by the deep greens of the Costa Rican jungle, with Morpho butterflies fluttering all around. The walk will take around one hour each way, leading you to the stunning ‘light blue river waterfall.’
Once back at the trail’s end, you will be taken to the Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, with a stop for a superb lunch offering views of Lake Arenal. With full bellies, you’ll walk across the hanging bridges in the Arenal cloud forest. This three-kilometre walk will take you into the heart of the jungle, where your guides will help you spot hidden animals and share interesting facts about the area.
After these two walks, it’s time to relax at your hot spring resort. Here, you will have private access to the hot springs, with nearby views of the Arenal Volcano, which you will explore the next day. Before your evening program of complete relaxation, you will enjoy a lovely dinner right at the resort. Whenever your eyes are struggling to stay open, you can retire to your chambers to dream of the adventures to come.
WALK: Fortuna Waterfall walk, easy, 1.5 km, 1 hour. Lava Field walk, easy, 4 km, 2 hours.
ITINERARY: After a hearty breakfast, you will head to another magical location tucked into the jungle. The Fortuna Waterfall is among the most impressive features in Costa Rica’s diverse rainforest landscape. A large flow of whitewater tumbles 75 meters down a cliff covered with bright green brush into a blue pool of water below, where you will be able to take a dip after a short hike through the jungle.
The next trek of the day takes you over the lava fields created by the Arenal Volcano, offering many impressive views during this four-kilometre nature walk. The landscape here is characterised by black volcanic rock contrasted with low, thick green brush growing all around. The low brush allows for 360-degree vistas of the area throughout most of the walk.
After this busy morning program, we’ll head back to the resort for another locally sourced lunch. In the afternoon, you can choose to unwind at the hotel’s hot springs or go along for another adventure up a viewing point in Arenal National Park, promising more breathtaking vistas. Once the group that took the trek up has returned, another dinner will be served at the resort as the sun disappears over the horizon. The walks today will have prepared you for another cozy slumber in your luxury suite.
WALK: Monteverde walk, easy, 6 km, 3 hours. Nighttime walk, easy, 2 km, 2 hours.
ITINERARY: An early start begins a busy day in the magical cloud forests of Monteverde. The transfer will take around 2.5 hours, taking you around Lake Arenal and through the rainforest. Upon arrival, you will tour the ecological farm of Hotel Belmar, your home for the night. After touring the farm, lunch will be prepared with fresh produce from the gardens.
The famous cloud forest of Monteverde awaits you, with an expert guide ready to share insights about the flora and fauna. Cloud forests are just as green and lush as rainforests but offer a cooler climate with moisture coming from fog, creating a surreal scenery unlike any other. The six-kilometre walk through the forest will take around three hours, giving you ample time to absorb the area’s beauty.
At around 5 pm, you will return to your hotel, where another locally sourced meal will be prepared for dinner. After dinner, you will explore the cloud forest at night. From around 6 to 8 pm, you will be guided through a smaller section of the national park with a flashlight. The forest comes alive at night, allowing you to see an array of animals such as colourful frogs, tarantulas, sloths, armadillos, and more. After a long day of exploring the Monteverde region, you can retire to the beautiful Hotel Heliconia.
WALK: Jaco walking tour, 3 km, 3 hours, easy grade.
ITINERARY: After breakfast, you will embark on a 2.5-hour transfer to the coastal town of Jaco. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a delightful oceanside lunch, providing the perfect opportunity to savour some of the local seafood. Following lunch, you’ll explore the town with a guide who will show you all the amazing street art the place is famous for.
Once your tour concludes, you’ll embark on another 1.5-hour transfer down the coast to your hotel in Manuel Antonio National Park. Villas Lirio offers an ideal setting for unwinding and cooling off by the pool in the late afternoon, surrounded by Costa Rican rainforest. Your day will finish with a delightful dinner, allowing you to relax and prepare for an early morning rise to explore the famous Manuel Antonio National Park.
WALK: Manuel Antonio walk, 7 km, easy grade, 3 hours.
ITINERARY: An early breakfast kicks off your day, as you prepare to beat the crowds on a 7 am tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. Despite being the smallest national park in Costa Rica, it is also the most famous, renowned for its intense biodiversity, lush jungle, and white sand beaches. Your walk will cover around 7 kilometres, leading you through the entirety of the park. During this 3-hour expedition, your guide will help you spot all the incredible wildlife the area hosts. After your walk, you can cool off with a dip in the blue waters surrounding the park’s white sand beaches.
Following a lovely lunch, your next transfer will be waiting to take you to Drake Bay, located in Corcovado National Park. Known as the most densely biodiverse place on Earth, this is the ultimate destination for wilderness lovers. Upon arrival at your beautiful lodge, you can begin to envision your jungle expeditions while indulging in the delectable cuisine served for dinner. As your bed welcomes you, you’ll be ready for another day of jungle adventure.
WALK: Corcovado, approx. 10 km, moderate, 7 hours with breaks
ITINERARY: You’ll be up before daybreak to kickstart your day, boarding a boat after breakfast to commence your jungle expedition at 6 am. Beginning by the coast, the walk will gradually lead you deeper into the jungle. Accompanied by an expert guide who knows all the best spots for viewing incredible flora and fauna, you’ll delve into the heart of the most biodiverse place on Earth. From tropical birds to monkeys, sloths, and more, the forest will come alive around you, with your guide ensuring you catch sight of it all.
The leisurely 12-kilometre trek will allow you to absorb the surroundings fully. Nearing the afternoon, you’ll pause for a picnic lunch before completing the last leg of the walk, which will lead you out of the jungle and back onto the boat. Returning to the lodge around 3 pm, you’ll have time to relax by the pool or ocean until the chefs prepare a delightful dinner for you to enjoy. A restful night’s sleep at the lodge will recharge you for the second part of your rainforest expedition.
WALK: Corcovado, approx. 10 km, moderate, 7 hours with breaks
ITINERARY: Wake up in the tranquillity of a jungle oasis, surrounded by the sounds of nature, and savour your breakfast as the sun begins to cast its golden light over the blue sea and lush green palms. Today, you’ll once again venture into the depths of the verdant jungle, where more wildlife and natural wonders await.
On your final day in Costa Rica, you’ll immerse yourself in the country’s glorious wilderness with another exhilarating hike into the forest. Your journey will take you further into the heart of the jungle, where you’ll explore around the famous Sirena Ranger Station, renowned for its wildlife study and extreme biodiversity. As you trek through the lush landscape, marvel at the towering jungle trees draped in vines and uncover the myriad creatures that call this area home. It’s the perfect opportunity to practice your bird calls, as the jungle reverberates with the melodious songs of hundreds of bird species.
After today’s extraordinary exploration, you’ll return to your lodge to unwind in your tropical hideaway. Whether you choose to relax by the pool, take out a kayak, or simply enjoy a few drinks while soaking in the last hours of sunlight, you’ll cherish these final moments in Costa Rica. Tonight, another delightful dinner awaits — a fitting farewell to the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica as you prepare to embark on your journey to the equally captivating country of Panama.
WALK: 3.5 km, easy grade, 3 hours.
ITINERARY: Prepare for another early start as you transfer from Drake Bay to Boquete, Panama. The scenic transfer will take approximately 6 hours, offering a mesmerising transition from dense jungle to sprawling farmlands, and finally, cloud forest mountains. Along the way, you’ll pause to enjoy a delightful local lunch in Boquete.
In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a trek to the Lost Waterfalls, immersing yourself in the heart of the cloud forests. As you traverse the trail, you’ll encounter babbling streams, rushing rapids, and, ultimately, breathtaking waterfalls to behold. The cooler climate of Boquete is perfect for walking, offering a refreshing change from the humid jungles of Corcovado. After this invigorating 3-hour walk, you’ll retire to your charming farmland hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy dinner amidst the lush, forested hills that surround you.
WALK: 7.9 km, moderate grade, elevation gain 589 m, 4 hours.
ITINERARY: Today, following a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you’ll delve deeper into the splendor of Boquete. Your morning will be filled with the El Pianista walk, a trail that unveils the highlights of the cloud forest. Beginning amidst open fields with views of mountains on the horizon, the trail gradually leads you into the heart of the forest, where you will be completely enveloped in the lush greens. As you traverse the path, you’ll walk through a narrow canyon adorned with moss-covered rocks and small plants. While the trail may pose challenges to navigate independently, our expert guides ensure a seamless journey through this enchanting landscape. Throughout much of the day, the forest is veiled in mist, adding a magical touch to the scenery.
After completing the trail, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before heading off to visit a local coffee farm. Here, you’ll partake in a tour that unveils the intricate process behind producing excellent coffee. Even for non-coffee lovers, it’s a great place to go for a leisurely walk with great views all around. Following the coffee farm experience, you’ll return to your hotel, where another regional dinner will be prepared for you to enjoy.
WALK: 5 km, moderate grade, elevation gain 400 m, 2.5 hours.
ITINERARY: A fascinating journey through the beautiful country of Panama awaits, taking you to Anton Valley. Breakfast will be provided en route, allowing you to arrive in Anton Valley early. Upon arrival, lunch will be served at the hotel. The afternoon is reserved for a short hike up La Silla, offering breathtaking views. This brief ascent rewards you with a 360-degree panorama, showcasing Panama’s natural beauty. Covered in lush grass, the hill resembles something out of a Disney movie. After descending, you’ll visit the Nispero Zoo, an animal rescue centre housing a variety of local creatures. Here, you can observe wildlife up close while contributing to its preservation. From jaguars and monkeys to tropical birds, the zoo offers a diverse array of animals to admire. As the day comes to an end, the chefs at your hotel will craft a gourmet dinner for you to enjoy before retiring to your room.
WALK: 3.5 km, easy grade, elevation gain 282 m, 2 hours.
ITINERARY: Before heading to the final destination of Panama City, you will make it up the India Dormida trail for breathtaking sunrise views. Overlooking Anton Valley and its surrounding mountains, India Dormida is a moderate hike that will take around 4 hours in total. Much like La Silla, this climb ends above the trees on a picturesque grass covered rolling hill. Once on top you can sit and enjoy breakfast as you watch the sun rise, illuminating the now gold looking grass around you. After all pictures have been taken you can make your way down where the transfer to Panama City will be waiting for you. The drive will be just over two hours and permits you to take a quick nap before arriving in the city for Lunch.
The Afternoon program contains a historical tour of the old colonial centre of Panama. Casco Antiguo or Casco Viejo is considered a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, and dates back to 1673. It is known for vibrant plazas and beautiful brick-paved streets surrounded by colourful houses. After this walk you will be taken to the hotel located inside this historic centre. Here you will be greeted with a festive dinner to celebrate the end of the Central America tour. Whether you started all the way back in Mexico or in Costa Rica, everyone will be many wonderful experiences richer, and this festive dinner will top it off.
ITINERARY: You’ll enjoy one final breakfast with us at your hotel in Panama. Following breakfast, you can choose to stay in Panama and continue your travels, or transfer to the airport if you’re departing. For those leaving later, transportation to the airport will be at your own expense. Taxis are a convenient and readily available option, and arrangements can be made in advance, online, or through the hotel.
Costa Rica
Sueño Rio Celeste is a boutique hotel located in Bijagua, Costa Rica, nestled between the Tenorio and Miravalles Volcanoes, surrounded by a serene piece of rainforest. The hotel offers a unique and tranquil oasis for travelers, with blooming flora and fauna, a healthy breakfast made from local ingredients, and an onsite spa.
Costa Rica
Disconnect and rejuvenate amidst 27 hectares of pristine forest, with private villas and rooms providing privacy and comfort. The strategic location offers easy access to Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, hot springs, and Arenal Volcano National Park within just 15 minutes. Experience rich biodiversity as you explore this family-owned haven. Reconnect with nature and luxury at Sangregado Lodge. Your rainforest adventure begins here.
Monteverde, Costa Rica
Embark on an unforgettable stay at Hotel Heliconia in Monteverde’s stunning six-acre cloud forest. Enjoy panoramic views of misty forests and the distant Gulf of Nicoya, while exotic birds flit through the vibrant canopy. The cozy wood facade and traditional Costa Rican decor create a tranquil haven, offering exceptional experiences and meticulous attention to detail throughout your stay.
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Nestled in the stunning mountains of the Central Pacific and near the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park, Hotel Villas Lirio boasts luxurious rooms, a vibrant tropical-style restaurant and lounge, and two sparkling pools. Surrounded by exquisite design, this hotel offers an immersive Costa Rican rainforest experience.
Drake Bay, Costa Rica
Set above a palm-fringed beach and surrounded by 250,000 acres of National Park and Reserves, this 189-acre rainforest property offers both adventure and relaxation. With 30 luxury accommodations, first-class service, and exciting activities, guests are immersed in the untouched nature of the Osa Peninsula for an authentic and unforgettable Costa Rican vacation.
Boquete, Panama
Finca Lerida will immerse you in the Boquete countryside, famous for its high-quality coffee farms and lush cloud forests. Relax in this lovely boutique hotel, offering forested valley views with only the calming songs of local birds interrupting the silence. Combined with delectable food made with local produce, this makes it the perfect place to unwind after your walks.
Anton Valley, Panama
The Golden Frog Inn is a cozy and charming B&B where you can live amongst nature in a volcano crater. The lush and tropical landscape, beautiful mountain views, and open-air terrace create the perfect setting to unwind. The hotel’s restaurant, Volcancito, brings an unexpected twist to traditional Mexican flavours, influenced by the jungle setting and made with seasonal, sustainably farmed, local ingredients.
Casco Viejo, Panama
Last but certainly not least, the boutique hotel we’ve chosen for your final night is Central Hotel Panama. You’ll stay right in the heart of Panama’s old city: Casco Viejo. The rooftop bar and restaurant will set the stage for your final feast to celebrate your journey. As you look over the old city, with large skyscrapers marking your final destination in the background, it’ll be a fitting end to your adventure.
Book and pay in full early and take advantage of these great savings…
PRIVATE GROUPS:
Date of your choice is available for groups of 8 people or more. Subject to availability.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
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INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS:
Please note your tour price does not include flights to / from the countries visited. We are offering our clients a service to book their international flights and any other travel plans during their holiday. If you would like our Flights Specialist to organise these requirements, please email us at flights@lifesanadventure.com.au with your requirements.
PRIVATE GROUPS:
Departure date of your choice is subjective to availability. A minimum group size of 8 required. Prices are equal to Past Travellers’ discounted rates. Based on twin share – see details about Single Supplement and upgrade extras.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
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SOLO TRAVELLERS & EXTRAS:
The following extras can be purchased with your tour:</strong>
If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room, we will attempt to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we can’t find you a match of the same gender by around 12 weeks prior to the tour, you will be charged the single supplement cost.
For those wanting to guarantee their own room, a single supplement cost will be charged at the time of booking.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Please enquire for price
Sherpa to carry bags on day 4: Maximum of 15kilos – can be shared amongst 2-3 people. Add $320 per person
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BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Before you book please read our Booking Terms and Conditions. Click here.
SALE TICKET CONDITIONS:
* Super Earlybird, Earlybird and Spot Special Sale Tickets: Must be paid in full at time of booking. Refunds or cancellations are not permitted for Sale Tickets however, transfers to another date are permitted 12 weeks or more prior to departure (a $200 change fee will be incurred). Taking out Travel insurance is compulsory for all International tours and will come in handy in case unexpected circumstances prior to the trip, prevent you from joining this tour. Early bird or Spot Special discounts cannot be used in conjunction with another offer. We have partnered with Cover-More to provide travel insurance to our guests. To get a quote or purchase travel insurance directly with them Click here. To receive these special discounts, full payment must be made at the time of initial booking. Flexiwalk Add-On option not available on these tickets.
* Those who have travelled with Life’s An Adventure previously, receive a past passenger discount of $100. If booking online the discount appears when you enter your email address in the booking details, any issues contact our reservations staff.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
* Prices are per person in Australian dollars and include GST.
* A deposit of $500 per person is required to secure your booking. (unless taking advantage of Earlybird or Spot Specials in which full payment is required at time of booking).
* Note: If you are booking within 90 days of your departure date – we will require full payment at the time of booking
* Prices are based on twin share of rooms. If you are travelling solo you may be required to share with someone of the same gender. If this is not suitable you can request to pay a single supplement, however, limited single rooms are available per trip so are on a request basis.
* Card fees apply or contact us for bank transfer payment options. The following fees apply. Australian Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 1% +$0.20 per transaction, International Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 3.4% + $0.30 per transaction (payments in AUD). International clients can enquire with us about bank transfers in your own currency to avoid transaction fees.
* Payments must be made online via our secure payment page via credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or over the phone.
* Taking out Travel Insurance is compulsory for all international tours to cover items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, or adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. Click here
* Credit for cancelled activities. If a tour activity has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances a credit for this missed activity can be applied to any future bookings. Click here.
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