07 Jan 2026
Costa Rica Beyond the Beach: A Holiday where Nature takes Centre Stage

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ECT Travel

With its decades-long commitment to ambitious policies to combat climate change and protect the planet's natural resources, Costa Rica has long punched above its weight as a global green pioneer. 

Sustainability is embedded into every aspect of life here, from the extraordinary biodiversity (the country is home to 6% of the world's entire biodiversity), to the protected cultural traditions and its commitment to eco-tourism, which is why independent tour operator ECT Travel has just added a 12 nights/11 days holiday in Costa Rica to its programme of gentle adventures in the natural world. 

The journey begins in San José with a guided tour offering a taste of local culture, before heading off for an exploration of the Arenal Volcano National Park and a chance to witness the rainforest come alive after dark. From there, we travel off the beaten path to Caño Negro and a three-night stay at the luxury eco resort of Tocu Tent Camp, tucked away in the heart of one of Costa Rica's most pristine environments.

Guests here stay in tents that put the glam into glamping and prove that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. Designed and built by local artisans, each 50m/sq tent is furnished with a king-sized bed, elegant sofas and handcrafted lamps and features both a private front terrace and a back garden with a rainforest shower, hammock and hot tub. 


Other highlights of the holiday include:
•    A walk across the historic lava fields of Arenal Volcano National Park.
•    A visit to the iconic Mistico Hanging Bridges.
•    An authentic 'Farm to Table' lunch surrounded by the scenic beauty of Arenal. 
•    Lunch at a traditional trapiche mill.
•    A boat trip down the lush Rio Frio to spot native bird species and, if you're lucky, perhaps a caiman too.
•    A Costan Rican cookery lesson, accompanied by a refreshing cocktail or two.
•    A traditional dress and dance performance by the indigenous Maleku community
•    A guided tour of Tapir Valley Reserve to encounter exotic rainforest wildlife.
•    A relaxing stay at Hotel Bosque del Mar, an environmentally responsible boutique hotel just steps away from Hermosa beach in Guanacaste.

Our gently paced itinerary offers the perfect blend of activity and relaxation, with knowledgeable local guides bringing each experience to life. Whether it's birdwatching,  tasting local flavours or learning about sustainable farming, every day is packed with authentic connections to nature and culture.

Explore Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Wildlife & Pacific Coast Relaxation, Saturday 28th November – Wednesday 9th December 2026. Discover the full holiday here

For more information and images, please contact Charlotte Abrahams

About ECT Travel
We are a team of travel professionals and passionate, curious travellers and are proud to have been creating inspiring holiday programmes all over the world since 1993. Small group sizes ensure the people who travel with us have the very best experience, with time for conversations with local experts, space to explore off the beaten track and opportunities to fully immerse themselves in every activity. We take pride in looking after the people who travel with us, and we guarantee a personal service every step of the way.