Costa Rica is a country of contrasts—rainforest meeting ocean, volcanoes rising above cloud forests, wildlife thriving alongside warm, welcoming communities. For travelers wanting to truly experience this diversity, a multi-hotel itinerary is the best way to explore Costa Rica’s rich natural tapestry.
The Enchanting Hotels Collection brings together boutique, sustainable, and independently owned hotels located in the country’s most extraordinary landscapes. Planning your journey around these distinctive properties means experiencing Costa Rica the way it should be—authentic, intimate, nature-focused, and filled with personalized service.
Here’s how to design a rainforest-to-beach-to-volcano itinerary that captures the essence of Costa Rica, with Enchanting Hotels as your anchor.
Why Choose a Multi-Hotel Itinerary in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica may be small, but it contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity, dozens of microclimates, and landscapes that change dramatically from one region to the next. Travelers can go from spotting monkeys in the rainforest to walking on a golden-sand beach or hiking near a volcano—all in the same trip.
A multi-hotel itinerary allows you to:
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Experience different ecosystems: Rainforest, cloud forest, beach, mangrove, and more
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Enjoy distinct local cultures and cuisines
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Balance adventure, wellness, and relaxation
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Reduce travel fatigue with strategic movement across short driving distances
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Support local communities and sustainability initiatives
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Discover Costa Rica in its most authentic form
With Enchanting Hotels, each property acts as a unique chapter in your Costa Rican story.
Step 1 – Start in the Rainforest: Untamed Nature & Pure Tranquility
Begin your journey surrounded by the sounds of nature—birdsong at dawn, rustling palm leaves, and the distant call of howler monkeys. Staying in the rainforest helps visitors disconnect from routine and reconnect with themselves.
Perfect rainforest choices within Enchanting Hotels include:
- Manatus Hotel
Immersed in a network of jungle canals, where wildlife sightings are part of daily life.
A gateway to Tortuguero National Park and one of Costa Rica’s most important sea turtle nesting areas.
Ideal for travelers seeking nature, tranquility, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. - Almonds & Corals Boutique Hotel
A Caribbean rainforest–meets–beach escape tucked inside a lush, protected jungle.
Elevated bungalows invite you to sleep surrounded by wildlife, ocean breezes, and tropical sounds.
A magical stay where nature, sustainability, and Caribbean charm come together. - Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge
Set between the calm waters of the Golfo Dulce and pristine rainforest, accessible only by boat.
A regenerative eco-lodge where ocean adventures, jungle exploration, and conservation coexist.
Perfect for travelers seeking deep immersion in one of the planet’s most biodiverse regions.
Top rainforest experiences:
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Wildlife boat tours—monkeys, macaws, caimans, sloths
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Kayaking mangroves
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Guided night walks
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Sea turtle nesting (depending on season)
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Waterfall treks and photography tours
Staying in the rainforest sets the tone for a deeper, more meaningful trip.
Step 2 – Continue to the Volcano Region: Adventure & Wellness
After the rainforest, the energy shifts as you travel into Costa Rica’s volcano landscapes, where waterfalls, geothermal hot springs, dry forest trails, and adventure activities await.
Enchanting Hotels options include:
- Chachagua Rainforest Hotel
A serene rainforest retreat near Arenal Volcano that balances nature, comfort, and privacy.
Surrounded by gardens, rivers, and wildlife, offering a peaceful escape with refined amenities.
Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, soft adventure, and a deep connection to the rainforest. - Hacienda Guachipelín
Set at the foothills of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, where adventure begins right at your doorstep.
Home to waterfalls, rivers, volcanic mud baths, hot springs, and thrilling canyon experiences.
Perfect for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers exploring Guanacaste. - El Establo Mountain Hotel
A high-elevation mountain retreat immersed in the Monteverde cloud forest.
Known for its sustainability practices, panoramic views, and abundant wildlife.
An inspiring base for exploring hanging bridges, reserves, and the cool forest climate.
Top volcano-region activities:
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Ziplining
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White-water tubing
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Horseback riding
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Hot springs and volcanic mud therapy
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Cloud forest hanging bridges
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Birdwatching in high biodiversity zones
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Mountain biking, canyoning, and guided hikes
This middle chapter adds excitement, exploration, and a sense of wonder.
Step 3 – End Your Journey at the Beach: Sunsets, Serenity & Ocean Breeze
Costa Rica’s beaches are the perfect way to slow down after rainforest exploration and volcano adventures. Ending your itinerary by the ocean allows you to relax, reflect, and fully embrace the country’s laid-back coastal rhythm.
Enchanting Hotels beach highlights include:
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Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows
Located just steps from the sand near Playa Carrillo, Nammbu offers modern beachfront comfort, beautiful pool areas, and unforgettable sunsets. It’s ideal for couples, friends traveling together, and travelers looking to balance relaxation with nearby beach exploration. -
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa
Set on a hillside overlooking the Pacific near Marino Ballena National Park, Cristal Ballena combines ocean views, wellness, and nature. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking tranquility, spa experiences, whale-watching season highlights, and easy access to waterfalls and rainforest trails.
Top beach experiences to include:
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Sunset walks and ocean-view dining
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Swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the pool
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Whale watching (seasonal, in Uvita)
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Coastal hikes and national park visits
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Spa treatments and wellness moments
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Exploring nearby beaches and small coastal towns
Ending your journey at one of these boutique beach hotels allows you to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy Costa Rica at a slower pace, perfectly complementing the adventure and immersion of the earlier stages of your trip.
Begin or End Your Journey Near Juan Santamaría International Airport
For travelers looking to ease into their Costa Rica adventure—or enjoy a relaxed final night before flying home—the Central Valley offers boutique hotel options that combine convenience, comfort, and memorable experiences, all within easy reach of Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).
Enchanting Hotels Central Valley Selections:
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Xandari Resort & Spa
Just minutes from the airport yet worlds away from the city, Xandari is a lush hillside retreat surrounded by tropical gardens and sweeping views of the Central Valley. Guests can unwind in outdoor pools, enjoy nature trails, indulge in spa treatments, and experience a peaceful transition into—or out of—Costa Rica’s natural landscapes. -
Studio Hotel Boutique
Ideal for travelers who appreciate modern comfort and design, Studio Hotel Boutique offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, curated art, and excellent dining. Located in Santa Ana, it provides quick airport access while placing guests near restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.
Why include a Central Valley stay?
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Short transfer times to and from the airport
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A stress-free arrival or departure day
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A smooth transition between long-haul flights and nature destinations
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Comfortable spaces to rest, refresh, and reflect on your journey
Adding a night at Xandari or Studio Hotel Boutique is the perfect way to start your Costa Rica itinerary feeling grounded—or end it feeling rested, completing your multi-hotel journey with ease and style.
