Costa Rica Botanical Gardens with Summer Rayne Oakes

Dates

Dec 8–13, 2026

Group Size

8–20 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

We'll be back in Costa Rica again for another botanical adventure—but this time we'll be making our way through a series of public and private botanical gardens to the beautiful Sarapiqui, Costa Rica—and staying at premium hotels and ecolodges along the way. Once we're in Sarapiqui, we'll have the opportunity to explore old growth lowland rainforest and also experience some of Sarapiqui's agricultural treasures with tours of an old cacao farm and an unforgettable organic farm, where you'll get to experience the sustainable harmony between cultivation and conservation. As night descends, we'll embark on a breath-taking guided nocturnal adventure—some of it far above the canopy—exploring the mysteries of the forest with a captivating night walk. And on our way back towards San Jose, we'll continue to explore some of Costa Rica's botanical gardens with private tours and even a plant-based workshop experience.
$2,595USD$2,695
Only 1 early bird spot left

Meet Your Host

Summer Rayne Oakes
Summer Rayne Oakes

I’m an environmental scientist and entomologist by training and now spend most of my days as an environmental communicator. My motivation in life is to connect people more closely with nature. I now produce two YT channels, including "Flock Finger Lakes" and "Plant One On Me". summerrayne.net, homesteadbrooklyn.com, flockfingerlakes.com for info.

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Trip Activities

  • La Catalina Botanical Garden

  • La Selva Biological Station

  • Organic Farm Tour at Finca Ecoorganica Sarapiqui

  • Chocolate Tour

  • Guided Night Walk Tour

  • Arca Verde

  • Lankester Botanical Garden

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in eco-lodge & 3-star hotel (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • 5 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 4 Dinners

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Welcome! Please be ready to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. for your welcome dinner. The exact reservation time will be confirmed closer to your trip date. If you're arriving today, we recommend flying into SJO Airport.

dinner

The welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a set menu with one non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change. To reach the restaurant, you’ll take a short 20-minute transfer.

Studio Hotel

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in San Jose.

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Day 2

La Catalina Discoveries

After breakfast, you'll head to the La Catalina Botanical Garden, where you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the lush flora. In the evening, you'll have an included dinner back at the hotel. Today you’ll want to wear closed toed shoes, and bring a water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Depending on your finalized hotel, breakfast will typically be a continental, full/American, or buffet style.

Transfer to Jardin La Catalina

2 Hours 30 Mins

Take a private transfer to Jardin La Catalina. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

La Catalina Botanical Garden

2 Hours

La Catalina Botanical Garden is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of the world of orchids, with over 450 species from around the world growing organically! The garden has a collection of nearly one hundred varieties displayed at eye level, and the large number of plants will be in bloom when you visit. After the visit, you'll stop somewhere for lunch on your own, and then transfer ~1 hour 45 minutes to your hotel in Sarapiqui.

dinner

Dinner is included at the hotel, featuring a buffet-style meal with one non-alcoholic beverage included. Please note, the menu is subject to change.

La Quinta Sarapiqui Lodge

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Sarapiqui.

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Day 3

Organic Farm and Chocolate Tour

This morning, you will have a hiking activity! Afterwards, everyone will head to the Organic Farm for lunch, followed by a tour. You'll have a chance to explore this old farm and learn about the traditional crops of Costa Rica. In the afternoon, you'll head to tour a chocolate farm and learn about its rich history. After the tour, embark on a night walk to experience the rainforest coming alive under the stars. Today, you'll want to wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle, insect repellent, and sunscreen. For the evening walk, make sure to wear darker-colored clothes, closed-toed shoes or boots, and bring a rain jacket/poncho, binoculars, a camera, a water bottle, and insect repellent.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The exact breakfast options may vary depending on your finalized hotel.

La Selva Biological Station

2 Hours

Guided walk along paved and accessible trails, perfect for all ages. Along the way, you'll observe a rich variety of tropical flora and fauna—such as birds, monkeys, and frogs—with interpretive stops led by an expert guide. La Selva sits within a complex biological, socioeconomic, and political landscape that has been significantly transformed over the last 40 years by a continuously expanding agricultural frontier, burgeoning human population, and accompanying major infrastructure. Protected areas, such as La Selva, provide a rich opportunity for studying how natural ecosystems respond to a broader landscape matrix of human uses.

Organic Farm Tour at Finca Ecoorganica Sarapiqui

2 Hours

Enjoy a 30-minute transfer to a local farm, where you'll explore the organic Finca Ecoorganica Sarapiqui. This farm showcases a wide variety of crops integral to Costa Rican cuisine, many of which have spread to other continents. Everything on the farm is grown using 100% organic, ecological methods with environmentally friendly practices. As you walk approximately 1 mile along dirt trails, you will have the chance to learn about these crops, possibly taste some traditional produce, and visit the animal husbandry section, where you'll encounter horses, pigs, chickens, cows, sheep, goats, and more. After your farm tour, you will transfer back to the hotel.

Chocolate Tour

1 Hour

A short 20-minute transfer will take you to the entrance of a historic cacao plantation, where your tour will begin. Discover the fascinating origins of the cacao tree, which traces its roots back to Mesoamerica, and delve into its rich history. As you cross the iconic Tirimbina hanging bridge, you'll be led through lush forested areas, learning about how cacao was originally cultivated in this region. A knowledgeable guide will share the secrets of transforming cacao fruit into chocolate, giving you an up-close look at the chocolate-making process. To top it off, you’ll have the chance to indulge in delicious, organic rainforest chocolate!

dinner

Dinner is included. Enjoy a meal with a selection of dishes, and one non-alcoholic beverage included. Menu options may vary.

Guided Night Walk Tour

1 Hour 30 Mins

Embark on a guided 2-hour walking tour that unveils the wonders of the tropical rainforest after dark, when the majority of wildlife is most active. This tour will immerse you in the natural history of the rainforest, focusing on nocturnal species like frogs, insects, spiders, sloths, kinkajous, and opossums, offering you a unique perspective of the forest. Expect to walk about 1 mile on a paved trail with a few stairs (under 100 steps). Flashlights will be provided to help you navigate in the dark.

La Quinta Sarapiqui Lodge

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Sarapiqui.

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Day 4

Arca Verde Visit

Fill up on breakfast this morning, then transfer to Arca Verde -- an ethnobotanical garden that combines plant conservation, educational tours, and wellness experiences in a serene natural setting. You'll then have lunch at the site. After the tour, head back to San Jose where you'll have an evening at leisure to explore the area some more.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The exact breakfast options may vary depending on your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Arca Verde

2 Hours

This morning, depart the hotel and transfer to Arca Verde!

Arca Verde

2 Hours 30 Mins

Enjoy a visit to Arca Verde, near Heredia in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, is a 7.5-hectare ethnobotanical garden focused on preserving ancestral plant knowledge. You can explore themed terraces showcasing medicinal, culinary, and dye plants, enjoy farm-to-table meals from on-site produce, and participate in guided tours or wellness workshops. With on-site lodging available, it offers a serene blend of nature, education, and mindful relaxation—a unique off-the-beaten-path experience in Costa Rica. Plants are marked with symbols signifying their uses, such as medicinal, colorants, food, poisonous, culinary, crafts, ornamental, wood, or oil extraction. A walk through our botanical gardens is educational and a delight for the senses.

lunch

Lunch is included at Arca Verde. Your meal will typically be a 3-course set menu with 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Transfer to San Jose

2 Hours 30 Mins

After your visit to Arca Verde, take a private transfer to San Jose. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

Studio Hotel

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in San Jose.

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Day 5

Garden Farewell

For your last day in Costa Rica, you will visit the beautiful area of Cartago, where you will have the opportunity to visit a renowned botanical garden and enjoy its surroundings, as well as have a delicious lunch. This evening you will enjoy one last dinner with your group and toast to a wonderful week!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Cartago

2 Hours

Take a private transfer to Cartago. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed

Lankester Botanical Garden

1 Hour 30 Mins

The Lankester Botanical Garden is a natural paradise dedicated to the conservation and study of tropical flora! World-renowned for its stunning orchid collection, it houses over 3,000 plant species, including bromeliads, ferns, cacti, and native trees. Its carefully designed trails provide a peaceful and educational experience, perfect for nature enthusiasts, students, and tourists. This garden not only showcases the region’s natural beauty but also highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation.

lunch

Lunch at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a 3-course set menu with 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Transfer to Hotel

1 Hour 30 Mins

After your visit to the Lankester Botanical Garden, take a return transfer back to your hotel.

dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll indulge in a delightful 3-course set menu. A non-alcoholic beverage will be included, though the menu may be subject to change. It's the perfect way to savor the final moments of your adventure with your group before heading home.

Studio Hotel

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in San Jose.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Until Next Time, Costa Rica!

As your journey comes to a close, enjoy a final breakfast surrounded by the beauty of Costa Rica. Then, make your way onward to your next destination or journey home. If you're departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of SJO for your convenience. Until next time, may your travels continue to bring you wonderful experiences!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included to start your day. Depending on your hotel, it will typically be a continental, full American, or buffet-style breakfast. The exact offerings will be confirmed based on your finalized hotel choice.

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Airports

Recommended Arrival Airport:

Juan Santamaría International Airport

Recommended Departure Airport:

Juan Santamaría International Airport

Add-Ons

Private Accommodation

$544
Love connecting with your group but also value some solo time to recharge? Opt for a private room and enjoy a little extra space to unwind between adventures. Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pre-Trip Accommodation

$154
Ease into your adventure with an extra night at the hotel before your trip begins. It’s the perfect way to settle in, rest up, and start your journey stress-free.

Post-Trip Accommodation

$154
Extend your stay with an additional night at the hotel after your trip ends. Enjoy more time to explore or simply relax before your journey home.

Airport Transfer

Price Depends on Transfer
Skip the hassle and start your trip smoothly with a pre-arranged transfer from the airport to your hotel, arranged through our trusted partner, Transferz. You can add this service in your TrovaTrip Portal once your trip is Closed, about 30 days before it starts.

Insurance Policy

Price Depends on Insurance
Travel has a way of bringing the unexpected—sometimes it’s magic, sometimes it’s where’s my baggage?! You can’t put a price on peace of mind. That’s why you can easily add trip insurance during your TrovaTrip booking, powered by our trusted partner, Travel Insured International. Choose the plan that fits your needs: look for coverage that includes trip or flight cancellations, lost baggage, and reimbursement for losses related to accidents, illness, evacuation, or pre-existing medical conditions.

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
$2,595USD$2,695
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Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:

  • The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
  • The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Does my Host make money from hosting?

TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.

Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).

A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.