BÖËNA ARTICLE

It’s Summertime in the Caribbean
Discover Costa Rica’s Wild Caribbean Side

Costa Rica Caribbean summer experience


September and October bring a different rhythm to Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. The weather is often drier, wildlife is active, rivers and surf are at their best, and the reefs glow beneath clearer Caribbean waters — all while Green Season rates make the journey especially compelling.
01 — Why Travel Now

The Caribbean Coast in Its Best Season

Drier Weather

September and October often bring some of the Caribbean’s most inviting conditions.

Thriving Wildlife

Jungles, canals and coastlines feel especially alive during this period.

River and Surf Conditions

Whitewater and waves add energy to an already immersive journey.

Green Season Value

Travelers can experience extraordinary destinations with more favorable seasonal rates.

True to its signature style, Böëna’s Ultimate Caribbean Discovery combines two of the country’s most remote and remarkable destinations: the mystical canals and world-renowned national park of Tortuguero, and the exquisite rainforest sanctuary of Pacuare Lodge on the banks of the mighty Pacuare River.

For travelers who want to extend the journey, a three-day stay in Puerto Viejo adds white-sand beaches, warm turquoise water, Afro-Caribbean culture, Creole cuisine and a vibrant coastal atmosphere.

A First-Class Immersion Into Costa Rica’s Caribbean Side

This itinerary is designed as a progression through city, canal, rainforest, river and coast — each destination revealing a different side of the country.

02 — The Journey at a Glance

From the Central Valley to the Caribbean Sea

Stop 01

San José

A refined opening night surrounded by the mountains and volcanoes of the Central Valley.

Stop 02

Tortuguero

Wildlife-rich waterways, Caribbean culture and immersive exploration by boat.

Stop 03

Pacuare Lodge

Rainforest luxury, river adventure, spa experiences and unforgettable cuisine.

Optional

Puerto Viejo

Beaches, reefs, culture, nightlife and a relaxed South Caribbean finale.

03 — San José

A Sophisticated Beginning

The discovery begins when you touch down in San José, surrounded by the verdant mountains and volcanoes of the Central Valley. Your first evening is spent in the luxurious Victorian mansion of Hotel Grano de Oro, known for its sophisticated tribute to Costa Rica’s historical coffee era and its nationally renowned French-influenced cuisine.

04 — Tortuguero

Into the Waterways of the Caribbean Lowlands

The adventure begins with a scenic drive through the seemingly impenetrable mountain rainforest of Braulio Carrillo National Park and into the vast Caribbean Lowlands until reaching Caño Blanco River Dock.

From there, you board a Tortuga Lodge riverboat for a fascinating guided journey along the Río Parismina toward Tortuguero. Your accommodations are at Tortuga Lodge, where colorful guest houses inspired by the region’s Caribbean-Victorian heritage combine comfort, nature and exceptional dining.

Two unforgettable days unfold through a world of wildlife, water and Afro-Caribbean rhythm.

05 — Pacuare Lodge

Rainforest Luxury on the Banks of a Legendary River

On the fourth day, the journey continues from Tortuguero Canal toward the Talamanca Mountains, ancestral home of the Cabécar people. The destination is Pacuare Lodge, set beside one of the world’s most scenic whitewater rivers.

Upon arrival, a wide range of experiences awaits: relax in a rainforest suite, swim in the infinity pool, enjoy a Cabécar-inspired riverside spa treatment, or explore the forest through a variety of guided adventures.

The stay culminates with a thrilling whitewater journey through the Pacuare River’s Class III–IV rapids.

Stay

Rainforest suites surrounded by river, forest and complete privacy.

Restore

Infinity pool and wellness experiences inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Explore

Forest adventures, cultural encounters and world-class whitewater rafting.

06 — Optional South Caribbean Extension

Puerto Viejo and the Coast Beyond

At the takeout from the Pacuare River, continue toward the postcard-perfect South Caribbean coastline. Once a sleepy fishing village, Puerto Viejo is now a vibrant surfside town shaped by international and Afro-Caribbean influences.

Your artsy boutique hotel is located just outside town, across from Playa Chiquita. Spend the final days snorkeling over reefs, walking through a waterfront national park, discovering the Bribri indigenous homeland, watching wildlife or sampling locally made chocolate.

Pura Vida, Caribbean Style

This optional extension adds beach time, culture, music, food and a slower coastal rhythm to the rainforest and river experience.

07 — Xplore Air by Böëna

More Time in the Destination, Less Time on the Road

Private Flights, Seamlessly Integrated

Add one or more Xplore Air private charter flights to reduce road time and create a more fluid journey.

Böëna’s executive-configured Cessna Caravan features Garmin G1000 technology and is operated by two experienced professional pilots.

Suggested routing includes San José Domestic Airport to Tortuguero, with a return flight from Limón City to San José Domestic Airport.

Xplore Air private charter
Xplore Air Cessna Caravan
Rates Starting From US$4,736 per person Based on double occupancy.

A Journey Through Costa Rica’s Wild Caribbean Side

From canal boats and tropical wildlife to rainforest suites, whitewater rapids and turquoise beaches, this itinerary brings together the many personalities of Costa Rica’s Caribbean region.

It is a journey defined by movement, contrast and connection — from the mountains of the Central Valley to the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.