COSTA RICA: Oyster’s 5 day taster budget tour

Hop across to the Nicoya Peninsula turtle project via cloud forests, mountainscapes and tropical beaches

Our turtle project is 6 hours from the popular arrival airport of San Jose. While we can certainly arrange a direct transfer package for you, why not take a more leisurely approach and soak in the beauty of Costa Rica along the way? Our carefully designed tour will traverse you across the western side of the country, introducing you to some of the top tourist must-sees along the route.

From lush rainforests to picturesque beaches and charming towns, each stop promises to be a memorable experience. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of everything, from arranging activities and accommodation to seamless transfers, ensuring you arrive at your volunteering destination right on time. This isn’t just a journey—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of Costa Rica while making a meaningful impact through volunteering.

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Monteverde

Step into the enchanting realm of Pura Vida Land! Upon your arrival, a convenient private transfer awaits to whisk you away from the airport to Monteverde, a journey of approximately 3 hours.

Nestled in the Pacific highlands, the quaint town of Santa Elena serves as the gateway to the captivating Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Renowned as one of the most exceptional wildlife refuges in the New World Tropics, this area beckons adventurers with its diverse ecosystem.

Immerse yourself in the charm of Santa Elena, reminiscent of a tropical Switzerland, boasting picturesque wooden houses and an invigorating alpine climate. Here, the interplay of gentle drizzle and warm sunshine creates a mesmerizing ambiance, setting the stage for Monteverde’s fame as the world’s foremost cloud forest.

Prepare to be captivated by this unique ecosystem as you embark on an unforgettable journey through Monteverde’s misty canopies and verdant landscapes.

Accommodation: Selina Monteverde – Shared dorm or similar

Day 2: Monteverde Reserve Hike and Tour

Today beckons you to delve into the mystical wonders of the Monteverde Cloud Forest with a captivating group-guided nature hike. With the Monteverde Reserve, Bosque Eterno Reserve, and Curicancha Reserve all at your doorstep, an expert nature guide will whisk you away from your hotel to one of these reserves.

En route, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating insights into the natural environment, along with the rich history and culture of Monteverde, founded in 1950 by 12 American Quaker families. By the time you begin your 2/3-hour hike through the Cloud Forest, you’ll already be brimming with intriguing knowledge.

Your naturalist guide will tailor the tour to the group’s interests, unraveling the intricate interactions between different species of flora and fauna in this unique ecosystem. Armed with special magnifying scopes, your guide will unveil the secrets of the forest, allowing you to get up close to nature’s hidden treasures.

Monteverde boasts an astounding 2,500 species of plants, including moss, bromeliads, ferns, and 420 varieties of orchids. Keep your eyes peeled for iconic wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and over 400 bird species, including the endangered three-wattled bellbird and the resplendent quetzal.

Following the tour, you’ll be whisked back to your hotel for an afternoon’s rest. But the adventure doesn’t end there! As the sun sets, prepare to embark on a mesmerizing nocturnal adventure through the cloud forest. Guided by an expert naturalist, you’ll navigate shadowy trails illuminated by flashlights, unveiling the intricate web of life thriving in the darkness. From tree frogs to night birds, armadillos to kinkajous, this enchanting tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the mystical world of the cloud forest after sunset.

Accommodation: Selina Monteverde- Shared dorm or similar

Day 3: Welcome to the west coast beaches of Santa Teresa!

Indulge in a post-breakfast adventure as you journey by a shared shuttle to the vibrant surf town of Santa Teresa, where families, couples, adventurers, and even celebrities converge for an unforgettable experience. To reach this idyllic peninsula, you’ll embark on a scenic ferry crossing over the Gulf, offering breathtaking views of small islands teeming with colonies of birds.

As you continue your journey by road to the southern tip of the Peninsula, you’ll traverse through mountainous terrain, catching glimpses of the sparsely populated interior. But it’s the Nicoya’s spectacular coastline that truly steals the show, with its pristine beaches and dramatic coastal scenery leaving an indelible impression from the moment you arrive.

Mal Pais and Santa Teresa, two charming fishing villages, seamlessly blend into one another along the coast, exuding a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Renowned as Forbes magazine’s Top Ten Most Pristine Beaches in the World, these beaches boast picturesque landscapes, rocky coastlines, and unspoiled nature.

While Mal Pais enchants with its sleepy seaside charm and volcanic formations, Santa Teresa bustles with surf shops, cafes, and exquisite dining options. Here, it feels as though all the world’s great cooks have chosen to retire, treating visitors to a culinary delight like no other.

Despite its laid-back vibe, Santa Teresa remains a vibrant farming community at heart, where chickens cross the road freely, and farmers traverse the town on horseback or herd cattle along the beach. With stunning beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and a plethora of international cuisine, both Mal Pais and Santa Teresa promise an unforgettable escape.

And for the adventurous souls, why not explore Playa Sueca, also known as the secret beach? Nestled at the far end of Mal Pais, this hidden gem boasts a secluded white sand cove surrounded by rocky outcrops, offering the perfect setting for swimming and snorkelling during low tide. Experience the magic of Santa Teresa and Mal Pais—where every moment is a testament to Costa Rica’s unparalleled beauty.

Accommodation: Selina North Sante Teresa – Shared dorm or similar

Day 4 : Free time for beach or activities!

Immerse yourself in the allure of Southern Nicoya’s stunning Pacific beaches, where the temptation to bask in the sun and surf is irresistible. From the moment you set foot on this breathtaking coastline, you’ll be captivated by its pristine beauty and untamed wilderness.

As you gaze out along the jungle-fringed shoreline, stretching endlessly with powdery white sands and rolling waves, you’ll feel transported to a true sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, there’s something for everyone here.

Indulge in a variety of water sports, from exhilarating surfing and stand-up paddleboarding to serene snorkeling and fishing. This idyllic paradise boasts a rare combination of palm-fringed beaches and consistent waves, offering endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation.

During low tide, discover hidden treasures in the numerous tidal pools, perfect for leisurely swims and underwater exploration. We recommend embracing a full day of blissful idleness—soak up the morning sun, take refreshing dips in the ocean, and leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

As evening approaches, unwind at one of the charming beachfront bars and witness the magic of a spectacular sunset painting the sky in vibrant hues. For those seeking further rejuvenation, indulge in an evening yoga class amidst the serene surroundings—just enquire at your hotel for details.

Escape to Southern Nicoya’s Pacific paradise, where every moment is a testament to the beauty and tranquility of Costa Rica’s coastal wonders.

Accommodation: Selina North Sante Teresa – Shared dorm or similar

Day 5 : Private transfer to San Francisco de Coyote

After a delightful breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Santa Teresa as a private transfer awaits to whisk you away to San Francisco Coyote, where the next chapter of your journey with turtles begins! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive, approximately 1.5 hours in duration, as you anticipate the rewarding volunteering experience that awaits you.

What’s Included

Accommodation:

Shared dorm rooms are included. This tour is designed as a budget friendly option – upgraded accommodation is available.

Activities and transfers: