Colombia, Ecuador and Costa Rica: 44 Days Across Three Countries

• DAY 1: Arriving in Bogotá

  

  This epic Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour begins with your Arrival at El Dorado Airport, where your driver will meet you with a welcome sign and transfer you to your hotel. The drive takes approximately 30–60 minutes, giving you time to settle in while your English-speaking guide shares recommendations for your stay.

  Let your guide know what interests you most, whether you’re looking for food, culture, nightlife, or sightseeing, and they can suggest ways to make the most of your time in Bogotá.

  • Activity:Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Casa Deco or similar.

• DAY 2: Ciclovía Bike Tour in Bogotá

  

  Explore Bogotá by bike on a 4–5-hour tour through the historic centre and La Candelaria. Ride past Plaza Bolívar and other landmarks, then continue through neighbourhoods including the English neighbourhood and Teusaquillo while taking in the city’s street art, coffee culture, and local markets.

  If your visit falls on a Sunday, join Bogotá’s famous Ciclovía, when more than 75 miles (120 km) of roads are closed to cars for cyclists and pedestrians. You’ll also have time to visit the handicraft market in Usaquén.

  • Activity:Exploring. Biking.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Casa Deco or similar.

• DAY 3: Uncovering Legacy at Guatavita Lake

  

  Travel north of Bogotá to Laguna Guatavita, a crater-shaped lake at around 3,000 meters above sea level associated with the Muisca origins of the El Dorado legend. A scenic drive brings you into the highlands, where your guide will introduce you to the cultural history surrounding the lake.

  Follow the trail to the lagoon on a hike of approximately 1.5 hours, taking in wide Andean views along the way. Continue your exploration of Muisca heritage with a visit to Indigenous communities around Sesquilé, if time allows.

  • Activity:Hiking. Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Casa Deco or similar.

• DAY 4: First Look at San Luis Reserve

  

  Fly from Bogotá to Yopal, where your guide will meet you and transfer you to the San Luis Nature Reserve. Begin looking for wildlife during the journey to your lodge, with the Llanos landscape providing opportunities to spot animals before you even arrive.

  In the afternoon, explore the savannah and forest edges on foot or by jeep. Keep watch for everything from smaller creatures and birds to larger mammals as you begin discovering the diverse ecosystems of Colombia’s eastern plains.

  • Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Plane. Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Hato Montana Natural Reserve or similar.

• DAY 5: 4X4 Jeep Safari

  

  Set out by 4×4 across the reserve in search of the Llanos’ wildlife. Capybaras, deer, spectacled caimans, tortoises, and numerous bird species are among the animals you may encounter during the safari.

  Return to the farm for lunch and some time to relax in a hammock before heading out again in the late afternoon. The second safari follows a different area of the reserve and continues into golden hour, ending with a prairie sunset and a nocturnal drive back to the lodge in search of species such as crab-eating foxes, anteaters, and nightjars.

  • Activity:Exploring. Wildlife Watching.
  • Transport:Jeep.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Hato Montana Natural Reserve or similar.

• DAY 6 : Horseback Ride or Walk

  

  Rise early for a quiet walk in search of wildlife at its most active, or join a local milking session before breakfast. Once you’ve eaten, head into the savannah and wetlands on horseback for a ride lasting up to four hours, depending on your interests and ability.

  Prefer to stay on foot? Explore the forest edges and waterholes instead, with plenty of opportunities to take in the landscape and look for wildlife along the way.

  • Activity:Horseback Riding. Hiking.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Hato Montana Natural Reserve or similar.

• DAY 7: Arriving in Salento

  

  Transfer to Yopal Airport with your English-speaking guide for your flight to Armenia. The journey takes approximately three and a half hours with one stop before you continue by private transfer from Armenia to Salento.

  The drive takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, passing through the green landscapes of Colombia’s coffee region. Arrive in Salento and settle into your hotel for the evening.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Transport:Car. Plane.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Salento Real Hotel or similar.

• DAY 8: Cocora Valley & Salento Tour

  

  Explore Salento, one of Quindío’s best-known towns, with its colourful colonial architecture, balconies, and relaxed atmosphere. Then head into the famous Cocora Valley for a hike among the towering wax palms, Colombia’s national tree, which can reach heights of up to 70 meters.

  The standard hike takes about two hours and can be adapted to your preferences. After lunch, try traditional Colombian games such as Tejo or Sapo, or extend the day with an optional longer hike, horseback ride and picnic, visit to Filandia, or tour of a coffee farm or avocado plantation.

  • Activity:Exploring.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Salento Real Hotel or similar.

• Day 9: Artisan Chocolate Workshop at Hacienda Venecia

  

  Travel by private transfer from Salento to Hacienda Venecia, a journey of approximately two hours. Once there, learn how cacao becomes chocolate during a hands-on artisan chocolate workshop, beginning with a look at the cacao trees and a tasting of fresh cacao beans.

  Roast and grind the beans yourself before turning them into chocolate and creating your own personalized bar. The workshop lasts around 1.5 hours, leaving you with both a better understanding of the process and a handmade souvenir to take home.

  • Activity:Tasting tour. Cooking.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hacienda Venecia or similar.

• Day 10: Arriving in Cartagena

  

  Transfer from Salento to Pereira, a drive of approximately one hour, then fly from Pereira to Cartagena. The flight takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

  On arrival, meet your driver for the 15-minute transfer to your hotel in Cartagena. Settle in and enjoy your first evening on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Transport:Car. Plane.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Tres Banderas or similar.

• DAY 11: Fishing, Drum Workshop, and Soccer

  

  Visit La Boquilla, an Afro-Colombian fishing community where generations of fishermen have used traditional techniques in the Ciénaga de Juan Polo and Ciénaga de la Virgen lagoons. Join them in a traditional pole-driven canoe for a 2–3-hour fishing experience, or choose a shorter visit with a demonstration, canoe ride, or mangrove-planting activity.

  Continue with a one-hour workshop exploring La Boquilla’s 200-year-old drum and dance traditions. Finish with a friendly game of soccer on the beach, an informal way to connect with local residents of all ages.

  • Activity:Cultural Exchange. Exploring.
  • Transport:Plane. Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Tres Banderas or similar.

• Day 12: Food Tour, Dance Lessons, and Pirates

  

  Explore Cartagena’s historic centre on a family-friendly tour that brings together the city’s colonial history, pirate legends, and local food. Follow a pirate-themed treasure hunt through the streets, visit a real pirate galleon, and sample Colombian favourites including arepas, empanadas, buñuelos, and cocadas.

  Later, learn the rhythms of Colombian music in a salsa, cumbia, merengue, vallenato, or champeta dance class. Choose a private or group lesson in Spanish or English, with translation available if needed, and put your new moves to work at a local bar or club.

  • Activity:Dancing. Tasting. Exploring.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Tres Banderas or similar.

• Day 13: Arriving in Punta Faro

  

  Transfer from Cartagena to the port, then board the boat for the approximately 1 hour and 40-minute journey to Hotel Punta Faro on Múcura Island. Once you arrive, settle into the slower pace of this secluded Caribbean setting.

  Spend the coming days as actively or quietly as you like, with options including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, tennis, and volleyball. The beach is deliberately free of music and organized entertainment, making Punta Faro a place to disconnect and relax.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Transport:Car. Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Punta Faro Isla Múcura or similar.

• Day 14: Leisure and Exploration at Punta Faro

  

  Enjoy a free day on Múcura Island, with time to settle into the Caribbean rhythm at Punta Faro. Relax on the beach or head into the water for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

  If you’d rather stay active on land, play tennis or volleyball before returning to the beach for a slower afternoon. With no scheduled activities, the day is entirely yours to shape.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Meal:Breakfas. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Punta Faro Isla Múcura or similar.

• Day 15: Day at Leisure at Punta Faro

  

  Make the most of your final full day on Múcura Island. Explore the island by bike, walk its trails, practice yoga on the beach, or take a paddleboard out onto the clear Caribbean water.

  You can also return to the reef for more snorkeling or simply spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood. Punta Faro’s unhurried atmosphere makes this a natural pause before the next stage of your journey.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Meal:Breakfas. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Punta Faro Isla Múcura or similar.

• Day 16: Arriving in Quito

  

  Your Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour continues as you leave Múcura Island around noon on the shared boat transfer to Cartagena. On arrival, your driver and guide will take you to Cartagena Airport for your flight to Bogotá, followed by your international flight to Quito.

  After approximately two hours in the air between Bogotá and Quito, transfer to your hotel and settle in. The remainder of the day is free to relax or begin exploring Ecuador’s capital.

  • Activity:Transfer. Flight.
  • Transport:Boat. Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel La Palma Polo Club or similar.

• Day 17: Dat at Your Leisure

  

  Enjoy a free day exploring Quito’s historic centre at your own pace. Start around Plaza Grande and continue to landmarks including the Presidential Palace, Quito Cathedral, La Compañía de Jesús, the Basilica del Voto Nacional, and San Francisco Church.

  Leave time to stop at a café for Ecuadorian coffee or hot chocolate with cheese, browse local shops, and explore the narrow streets of one of Latin America’s best-preserved historic quarters.

  • Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel La Palma Polo Club or similar.

• DAY 18: Tasting Quito’s Culture

  

  Discover Quito through its food, beginning at a coffee lab in the Mariscal neighbourhood before continuing into the historic centre. Visit a traditional market, sample an empanada at a local restaurant, and explore the main square and one of the Old Town’s historic churches.

  Continue with a traditional lunch before sampling classic Quito sweets including pristiños, quesadillas, and helados de paila. Finish at a traditional fonda for a local drink before returning to your hotel.

  • Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Hotel La Palma Polo Club or similar.

• DAY 19: Cotopaxi National Park Hiking Tour

  

  Travel approximately two hours from Quito to Cotopaxi National Park, beginning at Limpiopungo Lagoon beneath the slopes of Cotopaxi and Rumiñahui volcanoes. Walk around the lagoon while looking for high-altitude wildlife and taking in the páramo landscape.

  Continue higher into the park with a hike to the Jorge Rivas refuge at 4,800 meters above sea level. The high elevation makes this a demanding excursion, but the views across the volcanic landscape are a fitting introduction to the Andes.

  • Activity:Hiking. Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Hacienda El Porvenir or similar.

• Day 20: Cotopaxi Horseback Ride - 3.5 Hours

  

  Spend the day exploring the Cotopaxi region on horseback, with the ranch located about two hours south of Quito on the edge of Cotopaxi National Park. The 3.5-hour ride begins at 9:00 a.m. and follows trails through the surrounding Andean landscapes.

  Keep an eye out for wild horses, condors, and possibly Andean foxes as you ride through the highlands. Return to the hacienda afterward with the afternoon free to relax.

  • Activity:Horseback Riding.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Hacienda El Porvenir or similar.

• Day 21: Antisana Ecological Reserve

  

  Travel from the Cotopaxi region to Antisana Ecological Reserve on a scenic drive through the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Located in the eastern Andes near the Amazon basin, the reserve is dominated by Antisana Volcano, Ecuador’s fourth-highest peak at 5,753 meters.

  Hike around Mica Lagoon, an important water source for Quito, and enjoy lunch amid the high-altitude landscape. Keep watch for Andean wildlife, particularly the iconic Andean condor, as you explore this remote reserve.

  • Activity:Birdwatching. Hiking. Exploring.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:EB Hotel By Eurobuilding Quito or similar.

• Day 22: Arriving in Sacha Lodge

  

  Take the complimentary airport shuttle to Quito Airport for the 35-minute flight to Coca. Meet your guide on arrival, stop for lunch at Sacha’s private location, and continue to the Napo River pier.

  Board Sacha’s private motorized canoe for a two-hour journey downriver, followed by a 30-minute rainforest walk to Lake Pilchicocha. Cross the lake by canoe with local staff to reach the lodge around 3:30–4:00 p.m., then take a swim before heading out on a night walk after dinner.

  • Activity:Transfer. Paddleboarding. Swimming. Hiking.
  • Transport:Plane. Car. Canoe.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Sacha Lodge or similar.

• Day 23: Exploring Yasuní National Park

  

  Begin early with birding between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., when Amazonian wildlife is particularly active. Return to Sacha Lodge for breakfast, then take some time to relax beside the lake before lunch.

  Choose an afternoon activity at 4:00 p.m., followed by dinner at the lodge. Once darkness falls, head out again for a night excursion in search of Yasuní’s nocturnal wildlife.

  • Activity:Activity of your choice.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Sacha Lodge or similar.

• Day 24: Exploring Yasuní National Park

  

  Paddle through black-water creeks and lakes by dugout canoe, looking for wildlife among the lianas, orchids, bromeliads, and palms. You may encounter anything from tiny pygmy marmosets to larger predators such as ocelots, while your guide points out the forest’s distinctive plants and animals.

  Later, travel by motorized canoe along the Napo River to the Providencia community of Yasuní, where you’ll learn about local life and cooking traditions and may stop at a parrot clay lick. Continue into Terra Firme forest before climbing to the Canopy Walk, a treetop bridge offering elevated views of the forest and its wildlife.

  • Activity:Wildlife Watching. Canopy Walk.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Sacha Lodge or similar.

• Day 25: Return to Quito

  

  Make an early start from Sacha Lodge, leaving around 7:30 a.m. for a final walk along the boardwalk in search of monkeys before heading back to Coca. Sacha staff will accompany you to the airport and assist with your departure.

  Fly from Coca to Quito in approximately 35 minutes, then transfer from Quito Airport to your hotel. All Amazon activities are subject to weather conditions.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Transport:Canoe. Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hacienda Jimenita or similar.

• DAY 26: Arriving in Galapagos

  

  This Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour takes you to the islands as you fly from Quito to San Cristóbal, with the journey taking approximately 2.5 hours and potentially including a short stop in Guayaquil. On arrival, collect your luggage, obtain the USD 20 INGALA Transit Control Card in cash, and pay the Galápagos National Park entrance fee of USD 200 for adults or USD 100 for children under 12, also in cash.

  Transfer the short distance to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, then walk approximately 15 minutes to Playa Mann. Relax on the white-sand beach or snorkel in the clear water, where Galápagos sea lions are often nearby.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

• DAY 27: Kicker Rock Snorkeling

  

  Take a full-day boat excursion to Kicker Rock, or León Dormido, the distinctive volcanic formation rising 140 meters above the sea. Snorkel through the channel between the rocks, where sharks, manta rays, and other marine life gather.

  After the excursion, return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and your hotel. The day combines one of San Cristóbal’s signature marine experiences with time on the water around the island.

  • Activity:Snorkeling.
  • Transport:Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Boxed Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

• DAY 28: San Cristóbal Highlands

  

  Travel into the highlands to El Junco, the Galápagos’ only freshwater lagoon. Walk around the 885-foot (270-m) wide lagoon before continuing to La Galapaguera, where native plants and giant tortoises can be seen.

  Finish at Puerto Chino, a quiet beach where you can relax and snorkel. This half-day excursion combines the island’s highland landscapes and wildlife with time by the sea.

  • Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

• DAY 29: Self-Guided Tijeretas Visit

  

  Explore Tijeretas Hill on a self-guided walk from the Interpretation Center in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Follow the marked trail through the coastal landscape, watching for frigatebirds, Darwin’s finches, lava lizards, and blue-footed boobies along the way.

  Reach the viewpoint for broad Pacific views and the Charles Darwin statue, then either return by the same trail or continue toward Playa Mann. In the afternoon, meet your guide for the 3:00 p.m. boat to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz, a journey of approximately two hours.

  • Activity:Exploring.
  • Transport:Boat. Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Fiesta or similar

• DAY 30: Santa Cruz Highlands

  

  Travel into the Santa Cruz highlands to see giant tortoises roaming in their natural habitat. Walk around the ranch and look for tortoises, Galápagos finches, and other land birds among the vegetation.

  Continue to the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, where you’ll learn about ongoing conservation work and the protection of the islands’ giant tortoises. Allow approximately two hours for the visit and wear comfortable walking shoes.

  • Activity:Wildlife Watching. Exploring.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Fiesta or similar.

• DAY 31: Snorkeling and Fishing at Santa Fe or Pinzón

  

  Depending on availability and Galápagos National Park regulations, head to either Santa Fe or Pinzón for a full day on the water. Santa Fe offers clear snorkeling waters and a wet landing at Playa Escondida or Garrapatero Beach on Santa Cruz.

  If the excursion visits Pinzón instead, look for marine iguanas and sea lions around La Fe, with the chance to see sea turtles, small sharks, and colourful fish. A traditional fishing experience may also be available. Wet landings mean you’ll disembark directly into the water near the beach.

  • Activity:Exploring. Snorkeling. Wildlife Watching.
  • Transport:Car. Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Boxed Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Fiesta or similar.

• DAY 32: From Tortuga Bay to Isabela Pier

  

  Walk from Puerto Ayora to Tortuga Bay, one of the Galápagos’ most famous beaches. The walk takes approximately 25 minutes and leads to white sand and turquoise water, with opportunities to kayak and look for marine iguanas along the shore.

  Return to Puerto Ayora in time for the 3:00 p.m. public speedboat to Puerto Villamil on Isabela. The crossing takes around two hours and can be rough, so consider motion-sickness medication if needed. On arrival, pay the USD 10 Isabela entrance fee and transfer to your hotel.

  • Activity:Kayaking. Exploring. Transfer.
  • Transport:Car. Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Casita de la Playa or similar.

• DAY 33: Self-Guided Isabela Wetlands Biking Tour

  

  Begin with a boat excursion to Tintoreras Islet, a 30-minute ride from Puerto Villamil. Walk across the volcanic terrain to see lava formations, tunnels, and arches, then snorkel in clear waters where white-tip reef sharks, sea lions, marine iguanas, and rays can be found.

  In the afternoon, explore Isabela’s wetlands by bike. Visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center before continuing approximately 5 km (3.1 mi) to the Wall of Tears, with opportunities to see wild tortoises and coastal landscapes along the way. The self-guided ride takes around 3–4 hours.

  • Activity:Exploring. Snorkeling. Biking.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Casita de la Playa or similar.

• DAY 34: Snorkeling in Los Túneles

  

  Travel by speedboat from Puerto Villamil to Los Túneles, one of Isabela’s standout snorkeling sites. The clear, calm water reveals lava arches and underwater tunnels inhabited by sea turtles, reef sharks, and other Galápagos marine life.

  If time allows, make a self-guided visit to Flamingo Lagoon and the breeding centre afterward. The trail begins about 10 minutes from the village and leads to a boardwalk where you can learn about conservation programs. Flamingo sightings depend on weather and natural conditions.

  • Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing. Snorkeling.
  • Transport:Car. Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Snack.
  • Accommodation:Casita de la Playa or similar.

• Day 35: Sierra Negra Volcano Horseback Riding Tour

  

  Ride into the volcanic landscapes around Sierra Negra on horseback, following trails through rugged terrain and past lava formations. The route offers broad views across the island and a chance to experience Isabela’s volcanic landscape from a different perspective.

  With experienced guides leading the ride, take in the changing scenery as you travel through the highlands. Return to Puerto Villamil after the excursion and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

  • Activity:Horseback Riding. Sightseeing.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Box Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Casita de la Playa or similar.

• Day 36: Kayaking and Cove Exploration

  

  Spend the afternoon kayaking around Puerto Villamil, paddling along Isabela’s coast with opportunities to see tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles, Galápagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, and other coastal birds.

  After kayaking, walk along the mangrove boardwalk to Concha de Perla. Swim and snorkel in the clear water of this sheltered cove, where you may encounter sea lions, sea turtles, rays, and colourful fish. Finish the day watching the sunset from Puerto Villamil.

  • Activity:Kayaking. Swimming.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Casita de la Playa or similar.

• Day 37: Day at Your Leisure in Isabela

  

  Enjoy a free day in Puerto Villamil, beginning with a relaxed walk through town and along the coast. Browse local shops and cafés before continuing to Playa del Amor for a quiet swim or beach walk.

  After lunch, revisit one of Isabela’s nearby attractions, such as the wetlands or Concha de Perla, or simply spend the afternoon relaxing. Finish your final evening on the island with dinner overlooking the beach.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Casita de la Playa or similar.

• DAY 38: Return to Quito

  

  Leave Isabela early for the speedboat to Santa Cruz. From Puerto Ayora, transfer across the island to Baltra Airport for your flight back to Quito.

  The flight takes approximately 2.5 hours. Keep your INGALA card accessible, as it will be requested during the airport process, then use the EB Eurobuilding Quito Hotel shuttle for the approximately 10-minute journey to your hotel.

  • Activity:Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car. Boat. Plane.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:EB Hotel By Eurobuilding Quito or similar.

• Day 39: Arriving in Costa Rica

  

  This Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica Tour continues. Take the complimentary airport shuttle from your Quito hotel to the airport for your flight to San José, Costa Rica. The flight takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

  On arrival, meet your private driver for the approximately four-hour journey to Playa Cocles on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Settle into your hotel and enjoy your first evening in the region.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel or similar.

• Day 40: Day at Your Leisure in Costa Rica

  

  Explore Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and the surrounding Caribbean coast at your own pace. Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center to learn about local wildlife rehabilitation before heading to Playa Cocles for swimming, sunbathing, or surfing.

  In the afternoon, rent a bike and follow the coast toward beaches such as Playa Chiquita and Punta Uva. Stop for snorkeling or a swim along the way, then return to Puerto Viejo for Caribbean food and an evening in town.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Accommodation:Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel or similar.

• Day 41: Cahuita National Park Visit

  

  Spend the day exploring Cahuita National Park, combining a coastal walk with time in the water. Snorkel among the park’s coral reefs and look for tropical marine life before following the forest trails through lush vegetation.

  Leave time to relax on the beach between activities. The combination of rainforest, reef, and Caribbean coastline makes Cahuita a natural day trip from Puerto Viejo.

  • Activity:Snorkeling. Walking.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel or similar.

• Day 42: Day at Your Leisure

  

  Explore the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, a protected area encompassing beaches, coral reefs, rainforest, and mangroves. Follow jungle trails in search of howler monkeys, sloths, and colourful birds before continuing to the coast.

  Spend the afternoon swimming or snorkeling, or rent a kayak to explore the mangroves. Bring a picnic for a beach lunch and finish the day with a walk along the coast at sunset.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel or similar.

• Day 43: Day at Your Leisure

  

  Visit a BriBri Indigenous community on a guided cultural excursion. Learn about local traditions and daily life, visit a cacao farm to see how chocolate is made, and take part in traditional activities such as weaving or preparing natural medicines.

  Share a traditional lunch with the community before taking a canoe trip along the surrounding river. Continue to a nearby waterfall for a refreshing swim before returning to your hotel.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel or similar.

• Day 44: Back to San José for Your Departure Flight

  

  As your grand Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour comes to an end, you’ll leave Playa Cocles and begin the approximately four-hour drive back to San José International Airport. The journey marks the end of your 44-day adventure through Colombia, Ecuador, the Galápagos, and Costa Rica.

  Arrive at the airport in time for your onward flight, taking with you three countries’ worth of landscapes, wildlife, food, and cultural experiences.

  • Activity:Departure.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.

44 Days Across Latin America: FAQs

• Can this lengthy Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour be completed in one trip?

  Yes, with four flights. With 44 days total, you’ll spend 15 in Colombia, 23 in Ecuador (including the Galápagos), and six in Costa Rica.

• What is the Cocora Valley?

  An Andean cloud forest valley near Salento in Colombia’s coffee region, home to the wax palms of Quindío, the world’s tallest palm at up to 196 feet (60 m).

• How long is the Galápagos segment of this Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour?

  12 days across San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela—including stops at Kicker Rock, Santa Fe, Los Túneles and Sierra Negra—plus free days on each island.

• Is 44 days too long for this Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour?

  Not if you allow time for rest. This route includes leisure days at Punta Faro, on Isabela, and in Costa Rica, which is what makes a six-week itinerary sustainable.

• What vaccinations do I need for this Colombia Ecuador and Costa Rica tour?

  Yellow fever is recommended for the Amazon and required for entry to some countries when arriving from an endemic area. Check current CDC and WHO guidance before travelling.