costa rica

Pura Vida

11 nights/12 days: April 25-May 6, 2027

Detour with Dean & Paúl

We invite you to join us in a place that has shaped how we each see the world—through different paths, but with a shared sense of wonder. For Dean, it’s a living classroom of connection, where learning happens through people, place, and experience. For Paúl, it’s home: a landscape of forests, rivers, and communities that have shaped his life and work as a naturalist and photographer. Together, we’ll move beyond the surface, into conversations, ecosystems, and daily rhythms that reveal Costa Rica’s deeper story. This journey is about more than what we’ll see; it’s about how we’ll experience it—present, curious, and open to the richness of pura vida.

Split image showing a smiling man in business attire on the left and a man with a camera and camouflage gear in a jungle environment on the right.

highlights include

  • Experience Costa Rica through the lens of a wildlife photographer and the stories of a scholar

  • Move between cloud forest, volcano, and Caribbean coast with depth and intention

  • Navigate the Pacuare River, where jungle, water, and wildlife converge

  • Step into indigenous Bri Bri traditions through cacao, story, and shared table

  • Witness the forest’s hidden rhythms—by night, by river, and beneath the canopy

Pura Vida in Cahuita National Park

itinerary

Costa Rica Tour Map
“Pura Vida [Pure life]: to live a peaceful, simple, uncluttered life with deep appreciation of nature, family, friends; a ‘real living’ that reflects happiness, well-being, and satisfaction.”

Costa Rica is one of the most biologically rich places on earth—but its true magic lies in how life is lived within that abundance. Cloud forests hum with unseen movement, rivers carve through dense jungle, and Caribbean shores carry the rhythms of layered cultural traditions. Guided by Dr. Dean McGovern and wildlife photographer Paúl Nájera, this journey invites us to see, not just look. In rainforests and along riverbanks, in village kitchens and indigenous communities, we move through Costa Rica by both story and lens—discovering not only what makes this place extraordinary, but how to truly see it. Together, we settle into a deeper rhythm, shaped by connection, curiosity, and the easy spirit of pura vida.

  • A sloth hanging from a tree among green leaves in a dense forest.
  • Man smiling at camera standing outside with a large spotting scope mounted on a tripod, dressed in gray shirt, pants, and a cap.
  • Four people, three women and one man, enjoying drinks at a poolside bar with a tropical backdrop and modern lighting fixtures overhead.
  • A colorful bird perched on a tree branch among green leaves and twigs.
  • Group of people wearing helmets and life jackets rafting on a river surrounded by lush green trees and waterfalls
  • A woman smiling and leaning on a counter with a neon sign reading 'Today is the Greatest day' behind her, decorated with leafy plants and a wooden lattice.
  • Group of people swimming and celebrating in a natural river near a rocky waterfall formation.
  • Two smiling men with face paint, one wearing a Bennion Center T-shirt and the other wearing sunglasses and a cap, standing in a lush green jungle or forest with arms around each other's shoulders.
  • Six people are standing in front of a large sculpture of a woman made from wooden pieces outdoors on a gravel pathway with trees in the background.
  • A person wearing a helmet is on a zip line, with another person in front of him sitting in a harness, both smiling, in a lush green forest with trees and foliage.
  • A person practicing yoga outdoors on a wooden deck, in a forward bend pose with their head on a yoga mat, surrounded by lush green foliage.
  • A smiling couple stands arm-in-arm outdoors near a large leafy tree, with water and lush greenery behind them. The woman wears sunglasses, a blue sleeveless top, and black shorts, while the man wears a black t-shirt, beige shorts, and flip-flops.
  • Four people in life jackets and helmets standing by a river with rocky shoreline, green trees, and a cloudy sky in the background.
  • Three men smiling, taking a selfie together. The man on the left is wearing a hat made of woven material. The man in the middle is wearing a sports jersey with sponsor logos. The man on the right is wearing brightly colored traditional African clothing. They are indoors with a background showing a ceiling with exposed beams.
  • Four women doing yoga or stretching exercises on an indoor tiled floor with a green metal frame structure and sunlight casting shadows.
  • A vibrant green hummingbird with iridescent feathers perched on a red hummingbird feeder, with a blurred green background.
  • Group of people doing a yoga or stretching exercise on mats in an outdoor pavilion surrounded by trees.
  • Three women in swimsuits sitting in a swimming pool with tall green tropical plants in the background.
  • Person smiling and touching a large poster of a sloth hanging from a tree.
  • A group of five people white-water rafting in a river, wearing helmets and life jackets, paddling together.
  • A blue butterfly resting on green mint leaves.
  • A man in a blue shirt sitting at a wooden table outdoors, gesturing with his hands while talking, with dishes and drinks on the table, and a wood stove in the background.
  • A man with gray hair holding a long metal pipe in front of another man with a green bird-printed T-shirt, both standing inside a rustic wooden structure with a dirt floor. The man with the pipe appears to be pointing it at the other man's face. There are wooden beams, a bench, and mounted animal heads on the wall in the background.
  • Five adults standing in a hot spring or pool, holding drinks, with a rock-lined background and a small waterfall to the side.
  • People participating in a yoga class on a deck with a lush green forest background, practicing Warrior pose with arms extended.

Day 1: unmasking san jose

Traditional Masks in San Jose Costa Rica

Sunday, April 25, 2027

Bienvenidos a Costa Rica! After a short siesta at our hotel, we’ll get to know each other and the local culture with a visit to the masquerade workshop of a local artisan. A long-held tradition with roots in Carnival, Costa Ricans don oversized and colorful masks for parades and celebrations. We’ll gain first-hand insight on the craft while members of the artist’s family don several masks for us to admire. Afterward, we’ll enjoy dinner together family-style at their house.

San Jose is a 15-minute taxi from the San José Mineta International Airport.

Hotel: Four Points Sabana | Activity Level: Light | Meals: D

day 2: markets to monteverde

Market in San Jose Costa Rica

Monday, April 26, 2027

We start this morning with a visit to the iconic National Theater, followed by a stop at a fair trade shop showcasing crafts from Costa Rica’s eight indigenous territories. We’ll continue to the colorful Central Market to savor local flavors before traveling by private coach to Monteverde and its mystical Cloud Forest Biological Reserve—a sanctuary of remarkable biodiversity. After arriving at our mountain lodge, we’ll take time to settle in, breathe in the cool forest air, and ease into the slower rhythms of this elevated landscape. The evening is yours to unwind, take in the surrounding views, and prepare for our first full day in the cloud forest tomorrow.

Hotel: Cloud Forest Lodge | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, L

day 3: head in the cloud (forest)

Hanging Bridge in Monteverde Cloud Forest

Tuesday, April 27, 2027

This morning, we step into a story of resilience and creativity at a women’s artisan cooperative founded in 1982 in Santa Elena. What began with eight women has grown into a thriving community that now supports more than 80 families. From here, we turn toward the forest itself, lacing the hanging bridges, where the canopy opens to birdsong, shifting light, and sweeping views. Later, we return as night falls, setting out on a guided walk through the cloud forest, moving slowly by flashlight as the nocturnal world awakens—frogs, insects, and quiet movement in the trees—each step offering discovery and a deeper connection to this remarkable ecosystem.

Hotel: Cloud Forest Lodge | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B

day 4: sky trek

Man on a zip line in the cloud forest of Monteverde Costa Rica

Wednesday, April 28, 2027

Costa Rica’s iconic ziplines originated in 1979 for biologists to study the forest canopy. The first public canopy tour opened 18 years later in Monteverde and this morning is dedicated to this adrenaline-filled past time. We’ll ride an open-air gondola to an observation point with sweeping views of the rain forest and Gulf of Nicoya from where we’ll soar along 9 cables spanning 2 miles to connected platforms, requiring no walking, but affording plenty of adventure. The afternoon is yours to siesta and savor the views of the cloud forest over a final sunset in Monteverde.

Hotel: Cloud Forest Lodge | Activity Level: Strenuous | Meals: B

day 5: hot coffee & thermal springs

Eco Termales Hot Springs Costa Rica

Thursday, April 29, 2027

This morning we get caffeinated on a coffee farm tour where we’ll learn about the cultivation of the precious bean and the important role it plays in Costa Rica’s economy. We’ll then continue to La Fortuna, a small town resting in the shadow of Costa Rica's famous Arenal Volcano. Apart from its panoramic views, the town offers a range of other activities such as the 70-metre-high La Fortuna waterfall, stunning lush forest, rare plants, animal watching, and water-based activities on the lake. This evening we’ll enjoy a soak in the mineral hot springs followed by dinner together spring-side.

Hotel: Lomas del Volcan | Activity Level: Light | Meals: B, D

day 6: arenal national park

Arenal Volcano National Park Costa Rica

Friday, April 30, 2027

Today begins with a short, 1-mile guided hike to the Peninsula section of the National Park, near Lake Arenal. Throughout the tour we’ll enjoy stunning views overlooking Lake Arenal and the Tilaran Volcanic Mountain Range in the observation bays found along the trail. The walk concludes at a 40 ft-high observation platform where we’ll take in unobstructed views of the volcano. We’ll then travel by boat along the forested shores of Lake Arenal spotting wildlife along the way and enjoying photogenic angles of the lake and volcano. We conclude our morning at Arenal Dam, where you’ll be free to spend the afternoon in whatever manner you choose.

Hotel: Lomas del Volcan | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B

day 7: free day in la fortuna

Aerial view of a waterfall surrounded by dense green forest.

Saturday, May 1, 2027

Today is free for you to explore La Fortuna as you wish. The region offers a range of sights including lush forest, rare plants, animal watching, and water sports on the lake. If you’re seeking relaxation, the volcano supplies the area with abundant thermal springs. Craving activity? Try stand-up paddle boarding on Lake Arenal with the incredible backdrop of the volcano, or chase waterfalls in the national park. Animal lovers will have a good chance of spotting sloths, monkeys, crocodiles and basilisk lizards skipping across the water on a boat tour of Cano Negro Reserve.

Hotel: Lomas del Volcan | Activity Level: Your Choice | Meals: B

day 8: rafting the pacuare river

Group of people rafting the Pacuare River in Costa Rica

Sunday, May 2, 2027

This morning we drive 2 hours east to the Pacuare River, renowned for its natural beauty and world-class rafting. While not an overly challenging or technical river, the 18-mile run includes an amazing 52 class III/IV rapids, guaranteeing us a day of fun on the water. Flanked by green gorge walls, tumbling waterfalls, and tropical rain forest, this is Costa Rican nature at its best. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife as well, with sloth, parrots, toucans, and colorful butterflies and frogs a common sight. We’ll then continue by coach to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca for a taste of the Caribbean seaside – think reggae, coconuts, and palm-fringed beaches.

Hotel: Le Chameleon Hotel  | Activity Level: Strenuous | Meals: B, L

day 9: Pura vida in puerto viejo

Cahuita National Park Costa Rica

Monday, May 3, 2027

Today is devoted to pura vida. We’ll enjoy an entirely free day to immerse in the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, surf on world-renowned Salsa Brava waves, and cycle scenic coastal paths. Explore the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge to witness diverse wildlife or snorkel in crystal-clear waters to discover colorful coral reefs. Enjoy the town's lively atmosphere, with its blend of local and international cuisines, reggae music, and artisan markets. Relax on pristine beaches like Playa Cocles, and embrace the laid-back "Pura Vida" lifestyle that defines this enchanting Caribbean coast.

Hotel: Le Chameleon Hotel | Activity Level: Your Choice | Meals: B

day 10: cacao & caribbean cooking

Fresh cacao fruit on the tree in Costa Rica

Tuesday, May 4, 2027

Today we visit Bri Bri Territory, where an indigenous family dedicates itself to the reproduction of the Green Iguana, a once endangered species. We then visit the Bri-Bri indigenous reserve to learn the process of making chocolate, central to Bri-Bri culture for purification rituals, food, and medicine. We’ll refresh at a waterfall over a swim and a fruit snack before sharing a lunch of Caribbean specialties together. After a siesta, we’ll learn to prepare a traditional Caribbean meal ourselves in a local family’s home, enjoying fruits, seafood, tubers and vegetables combined with coconut flavors, ginger, allspice, cinnamon, curry, Panamian pepper, and thyme.

Hotel: Le Chameleon Hotel  | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, L, D

day 11: cahuita national park

Pristine Beach in Cahuita National Park Costa Rica

Wednesday, May 5, 2027

Established in 1970, Cahuita National Park is a testament to Costa Rica’s dedication to preserving its natural treasures. We’ll explore its breathtaking coral reefs, lush rainforests, serene mangroves, and sun-drenched beaches, starting with a 2-hour guided hike followd by plenty of time to lounge on the beach, snorkel the reef, or go wildlife spotting for paca, iguanas, giant blue crabs, racoons, sloths, opossums, porcupines and the capuchin monkey. From here we’ll make the return journey to San Jose where we’ll enjoy our final meal together before departure tomorrow.

Hotel: Four Points Sabana | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, D

day 12: Adiós, hasta la próxima!

Costa Rica Sloth Puerto Viejo

Thursday, May 6, 2027

Our journey ends after breakfast. We’ll help arrange your airport transport, or any post-detour travel you have planned within or beyond Costa Rica. We won’t say adios, but rather hasta la proxima—to our next adventure together!

Hummingbird in Monteverde Costa Rica
Capuchin Monkey Costa Rica
Traveler in Waterfall Costa Rica
Bananas and plantains in Costa Rica
Red-eyed Tree Frog Costa Rica
Scarlet Macaw Costa Rica

$6,996 per person double occupancy

+$1,500 single supplement

10% Deposit

What our travelers are saying

  • "A trip filled with fun, beauty and adventure!!! Dean our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and Dressler Detours did a fantastic job with the itinerary, didn’t miss a thing! Can’t wait for my next trip with Detours, it will be #3 for me!”

    -Lana S.

  • "What an amazing time! Our guides were so knowledgeable of the flora, fauna, biodiversity, people and food of this beautiful country. We shared tons of laughter along the way. We hated to see it end but we've made lifelong friends. Pura Vida!"

    -Lorraine T.

  • “This was the best trip I have ever taken. Costa Rica was beautiful and full of amazing wildlife and food. The itinerary was excellent with a great mix of activities. I highly recommend this trip!”

    —Kristina H.

FAQs

  • Each detour includes the price of all admissions to sights seen as a group; tours by local guides, meals as listed in the trip itinerary; accommodations each night of the detour including breakfasts; all transportation required for group activities from the first hotel to the last hotel of the detour (transportation for optional group activities and independent travel during the detour is not included), travel consultations and advice from our staff, guides, and vendors including suggestions, tips, and directions, and all trip leader, local guide, driver, and hotel tips. Prices do not include airfare to and from the detour, nor ground transportation to/from airports.

  • Detour prices do not include international airfare or ground transportation to/from the airport.

  • Each detour includes all breakfasts and about half of your lunches and dinners as indicated in the meal guide included in each itinerary: B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner.

  • Yes! Our detours are the perfect way for children (and adults) to learn in action. We welcome and celebrate multi-generational travel. History class was never so fun!

  • Each detour begins the evening of Day 1 at our first hotel, where we will meet for a welcome reception. Meeting times vary by detour and are indicated on each itinerary.

  • We will meet around 3 pm at our hotel on Day 1. If you plan to arrive a day early and want to stay in our trip hotel, please make arrangements with the hotel directly, indicating that you are part of our group.

  • The San José Juan Santamaría International Airport is an easy taxi or shuttle ride from San José where we will begin and end our detour.

  • Each trip page has a “book now” button that links to our online registration and payment system. There you can pay the 10% per person deposit and choose to pay in installments or to pay the full amount.

  • Deposits are refundable for 30 days from receipt. After 30 days they are nonrefundable.

  • Final payment is due 90 days prior to detour commencement but you may pau in full any time prior to this.

  • Cancellations are allowed without penalty (excepting deposit) until the final payment deadline. After the final payment deadline 100% of funds paid are nonrefundable.

  • Each trip page has a “book now” button that links to our online registration and payment system. There you can pay the 10% per person deposit and choose to pay in installments or to pay the full amount.

  • Yes, all published prices are per person, based on double occupancy, or when available, single occupancy. Please contact us for triple occupancy pricing.

  • During the registration process you will have the opportunity to request single occupancy, if it is offered. Due to the boutique nature of our hotels, we are not always able to offer single accommodations, but are happy to pair you with another single traveler.

  • Yes. You must be able to carry your own luggage up at least three flights of stairs and on uneven ground for up to a quarter mile.

  • Dressler Detours are physically demanding. To enjoy the experience, you must be in good walking shape. The most active days may average 5 miles of walking (often over uneven surfaces and including lots of climbing/steps), lots of standing while listening to your guide during group sightseeing, and possibly stair-climbing while carrying your own bag up to your hotel room. We’ve included an activity guide for each day of our itinerary: light=mostly sedentary, moderate=walking 1-3 miles on mostly even ground, strenuous=walking 3+ miles on hills/uneven ground.