3-Days Arenal Volcano Tabacon Resort -Monteverde – Manuel Antonio

Experience the best of Costa Rica in just three days with this well-organized, all-inclusive tour covering Arenal Volcano, Monteverde’s lush cloud forests, and the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio. For $850 per person, you’ll travel with a small group (maximum 15) in comfort, with transportation, accommodations, and meals taken care of. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable locals, this trip promises a mix of adventure, wildlife, and relaxing scenery that makes it a favorite for travelers eager to see a lot without the stress of planning each detail.

What we love most about this tour is its focus on authentic natural wonders—walking the trails of Arenal, crossing Monteverde’s famous hanging bridges, and relaxing at Manuel Antonio’s pristine beaches. The inclusion of hot springs, nature walks, and optional ziplining or coffee tours adds a flavor of adventure, with reviews consistently praising guides like Luis, Johan, and Yojhan for their friendliness and knowledge. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long driving hours, which might be tiring for some travelers, especially if your group is larger or less accustomed to road trips.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive Costa Rican experience without the hassle of logistics—perfect for first-timers or anyone with limited time. It’s especially recommended if you value local guides’ insights and want a balance of sightseeing, wildlife, and beach time, all wrapped into a manageable three-day package.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Transportation, accommodations, and meals are covered, making this perfect for busy travelers.
• Diverse landscapes: From active volcanoes and cloud forests to white-sand beaches, the trip covers Costa Rica’s natural highlights.
• Expert guides: Local guides like Luis, Johan, and Yojhan receive high praise for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Flexible activities: Optional ziplining, coffee tours, and time on the beach cater to different interests.
• Long travel days: Expect some hours in transit, so be prepared for the road trip aspect.
• Authentic local experiences: Enjoy Costa Rican breakfasts, organic foods, and the chance to spot wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Hot Springs

Your adventure kicks off in the lush surrounds of Arenal Volcano National Park. Expect around three hours of walking, during which you’ll see different views of Arenal Lake and La Fortuna, with notable waterfalls along the route. Reviews consistently highlight how guides share interesting details about the volcano’s history and surrounding landscape, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

What makes this stop special is the chance to see two waterfalls along the way—each one offering a different perspective of Costa Rica’s vibrant water systems. After the hike, you’ll unwind in a natural hot springs resort for three hours. The hot springs are a highlight, with reviews raving about how relaxing it is after a day of sightseeing. The experience is topped off with a typical Costa Rican breakfast and lunch, giving you a taste of local flavors.

The day concludes with the scenic drive to Monteverde, where you’ll catch a beautiful sunset along the way. This transition from volcanic landscapes to cool cloud forests is one of the trip’s visual highlights.

Day 2: Monteverde Cloud Forest & Selvatura Park

Day two is packed with the ecological marvels of Monteverde. The morning begins with a walk through the famous Butterfly Garden at Selvatura Park. Here, the lush, cooler environment makes you feel like you’re stepping into a different world. The park’s hanging bridges offer some of the best views of the canopy, allowing you to see the forest from above—an experience reviewed as both stunning and peaceful.

Optional activities include ziplining, which reviews describe as “awesome,” or a 3-in-1 coffee tour at Don Juan’s, which is highly praised for its organic, locally produced foods and the famous Monteverde ice cream. The tour also includes a delicious lunch buffet at La Casona de Don Juan, giving you a hearty, farm-fresh meal in a beautiful setting. Travelers consistently mention how guides make the experience engaging, sharing insights into the local flora, fauna, and culture.

The cool, misty atmosphere of Monteverde is a delightful contrast to the previous day’s heat, making it a highlight for nature lovers. Expect to see a variety of wildlife, including hummingbirds, exotic butterflies, and perhaps even the elusive quetzal.

Day 3: Manuel Antonio Beaches & Wildlife

The final day takes you to the tropical beaches of Manuel Antonio. After a short drive, you’ll have approximately three hours to relax on the white sands or take a walk through the national park. Here, you’ll encounter a lively array of wildlife—capuchin monkeys, sloths, deer, and many colorful birds—making it a perfect spot for animal lovers.

The reviews echo how memorable this day is, with travelers describing the beach as a natural paradise that’s perfect for unwinding or spotting wildlife. The trail around Manuel Antonio is easy to walk and offers plenty of chances to see animals close up, often described as a “natural zoo.” The park’s lush environment with various plants, flowers, and trees makes it a photographer’s dream.

Transportation & Group Dynamics

You’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is much appreciated given Costa Rica’s varying climate. The tour is designed for small groups (max 15), allowing for a more personal experience and flexible schedule. The guides are praised for their friendly attitude and ability to tailor the experience based on your interests—whether you want to focus on wildlife, scenery, or simply relax.

Most reviews mention the timing as well-coordinated, with guides and drivers working hard to optimize your time at each site. Some travelers, however, note that the long hours in transit can be tiring, especially for those less accustomed to driving or with young children. The travel days are full, but the payoff is the chance to see diverse landscapes and ecosystems that define Costa Rica.

Accommodations and Meals

Staying at comfortable hotels and resorts, including the renowned Tabacon Resort, adds to the value of this tour. The accommodations are generally well-reviewed, with some travelers mentioning that one hotel in Manuel Antonio lacked air conditioning—something to consider if you’re sensitive to heat.

Meals included—three breakfasts and three lunches—offer a good sample of Costa Rican cuisine. The food is described as fresh, organic, and locally sourced, with some reviewers highlighting the delicious ice cream and hearty buffets. Extra activities like ziplining or coffee tours are optional and paid separately, giving flexibility based on your interests.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters & Highlights

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the chance to see wildlife in their natural environment. From the sloths hanging in trees to monkeys and colorful birds, the guides are skilled at pointing out animals you might miss on your own. Several reviews specifically mention how guides like Johan and Yancy went out of their way to customize the experience—splitting off with family members, stopping for sunset views, or adjusting plans for walking pace.

The natural hot springs, the lush canopy of Monteverde, and the beaches of Manuel Antonio all combine to give a well-rounded picture of Costa Rica’s ecological diversity. Many reviews reflect how these moments created lasting memories.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Expect long travel days—the drive from San Jose to Arenal, then to Monteverde, and finally Manuel Antonio, can be quite lengthy. While the scenery is stunning, patience is key. The roads, especially to Monteverde, are winding and narrow, so brace yourself for some bumpy rides. Some travelers noted that long hours in transit might be tiring, but most agreed the experience was worth it.

The tour is best suited for those comfortable with group travel and who want a comprehensive, stress-free trip. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure that balances wildlife, scenery, and relaxation. If you’re a solo traveler seeking flexibility or on a tight budget, renting a car and doing a more customized trip might suit you better.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Costa Rican tour offers a terrific snapshot of the country’s most iconic landscapes. It’s suited for travelers who want to maximize their time without worrying about logistics, thanks to all-inclusive accommodations and transportation. The mix of active experiences—hot springs, canopy walks, wildlife spotting—and serene beach time ensures a well-rounded adventure.

The guides and drivers consistently receive high praise for their friendly, knowledgeable manner, which turns a simple sightseeing tour into a more personal and engaging experience. While the long hours in a vehicle might be a challenge for some, the payoff is a diverse, authentic look at Costa Rica’s natural treasures.

If you’re eager for a guided, all-in-one trip that covers volcanoes, cloud forests, and beaches, and don’t mind some travel time, this tour can be a fantastic choice. It’s especially good for those who want a value-packed, hassle-free way** to see Costa Rica’s highlights in just three days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off from San Jose hotels, cruise ships, or the airport.

Are meals included?
The tour provides three breakfasts and three lunches, featuring local, organic foods. Extra activities like ziplining or coffee tours are paid separately.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour usually accommodates up to 15 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the activities?
While the itinerary is set, guides are praised for their flexibility, including splitting off for ziplining or adjusting walking paces.

What are the main sights I will see?
Expect to visit Arenal Volcano National Park, relax in hot springs, walk the Monteverde cloud forest, cross the hanging bridges, and enjoy Manuel Antonio’s beaches and wildlife.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. The activities are generally family-friendly, but long travel days should be considered.

In brief, this 3-day guided tour packs in some of Costa Rica’s very best—volcanoes, forests, and beaches—making it a smart choice for travelers who want to see a lot in a short time without the stress of planning. With friendly guides and carefully coordinated logistics, it offers a solid introduction to Costa Rica’s natural beauty that many reviews call “memorable” and “worth every penny.”