Pura Vida: Costa Rica Coast-to-Coast

Costa Rica is famous for its wildlife and nowhere more so than in Tortuguero National Park. If you're here in season (our summer) the action centres on the local turtle population, but at other times of year there's still plenty to see. Transportation from San Jose is via a short domestic flight to Tortuguero. With no roads through the national park, access to your lodge involves a two-hour boat trip. Once you've settled into your lodge, take a walk through its extensive gardens where you might spot snakes, lizards, howler monkeys and a variety of birds. After dark, if it's turtle nesting season (July to October) join an organised tour with a qualified local guide. On the beach, watch as the female turtle lays her eggs and then pushes her way back to the sea. Later in the season, you might catch the magical moment a baby turtle hatches from its egg.

This morning enjoy a leisurely boat trip through the canals and waterways of the lagoon at Tortuguero. Slip silently through the water as your guide points out some of the local wildlife that calls Tortuguero home, including monkeys, snakes and birds. Later, pay a visit to Tortuguero Town to get a feel for local life. It's a colourful place and a great spot to pick up a souvenir. Before you leave, pay a visit to the Sea Turtle Conservancy research centre to learn more about the work they do in helping to protect these fascinating creatures. Fishing, kayaking, birdwatching and rainforest canopy tours can also be organised during your stay.

Depart Tortuguero by boat this morning and head towards the Pacuare River in the Limón Province of Costa Rica. Stay for two nights at a 'back to nature' eco-lodge, nestled within the rainforest near the riverbank. There are plenty of activities on offer here and you can spend your time swimming, fishing, exploring the surrounding rainforest and visiting an indigenous community. Adrenaline junkies are sure to be tempted by the thrill of white water rafting along the river's rapids, or ziplining through the rainforest canopy. For something a bit more sedate, perhaps hike an ancient trail to a local waterfall or, accompanied by a local guide, head out for an afternoon of bird spotting. The hotel is also equipped with a spa for unwinding after action-packed days, while evenings can be spent enjoying candlelit dinners beneath the stars.

In complete contrast to the waterways of Tortuguero and Pacuare, Arenal's scenery is dramatic and rugged. Dominated by the cone-shaped volcano (which until 2010 spewed lava down its flanks almost every night), it's a feast for the eyes. The volcano is dormant now, but no less impressive for it. Even getting there is fun, as you'll raft out of Pacuare and then be driven by private 4x4 to your hotel in Arenal. Relax this afternoon and explore the verdant surroundings.

After a delicious breakfast, you'll ride the Sky Tram gondolas which will take you up to the rainforest canopy. Watch out for sloths, birds and butterflies as you glide through the trees. Alight at the observation deck and if you wish, ride the zipline course through the trees. If you are brave enough to keep your eyes open, there are breath-taking views of the volcano and Arenal Lake. This afternoon, ditch the harness and hike some of the trails around the base of Mount Arenal with an experienced guide. End the afternoon relaxing in the luxurious and lush setting of the nearby hot springs.

Don closed shoes and slap on the bug repellent for this unique wildlife encounter. At Proyecto Asis, animal welfare and environmental conservation is paramount. On this tour and volunteering combo you'll have the chance to encounter the wildlife at the centre, prepare their food and clean out their enclosures. As this is a rescue centre, the type of animals varies and you may also have the chance to help build new enclosures or make toys. Recent releases back into the wild following successful rehabilitation include monkeys, anteaters, sloths, squirrels, toucans and hawks.

This morning you'll leave Arenal and enjoy a private transfer to Nosara, on the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica, known for its Pacific beaches. Check into your boutique eco-lodge and spend the afternoon relaxing, while enjoying the stunning sea views.

Nosara is renowned as one of Costa Rica’s top surfing and yoga spots, so you can spend your mornings enjoying whichever is your preferred sport. Other water sports on offer include fishing, diving and swimming, or you can opt to simply soak up the sun's rays in this Central American corner of paradise. Explore the region’s many beaches, enjoy strolls along the sand and as dusk falls, propose a toast with a chilled G&T at cocktail hour before enjoying a meal at the hotel.