Spanning two contrasting destinations, this journey combines the wild beauty of Costa Rica with the layered history of Panama City, offering a compelling introduction to Central America. Rainforest landscapes, volcanic scenery and colonial streets set the tone for an experience shaped by diversity, culture and atmosphere.
In Costa Rica, the focus is on immersive nature and wildlife encounters. Explore lush rainforest around Arenal Volcano, walk high among the treetops, drift quietly along jungle rivers and unwind in naturally heated hot springs hidden within the forest. Sloths, monkeys and tropical birdlife are often spotted, alongside cultural experiences at coffee and chocolate farms and over traditional countryside meals.
The experience then shifts to Panama City, where centuries of history meet modern urban life. Staying in the heart of Casco Viejo allows easy access to the UNESCO listed ruins of Panamá Viejo, grand plazas and cobblestoned streets. Time to explore cafés, markets and viewpoints at your own pace rounds out a well-balanced itinerary that blends nature, culture and history.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Private Departures 
Welcome to Panama City! This bustling metropolis at the crossroads of the Americas blends modern skyscrapers with colonial charm. It boasts vibrant markets, historic sites such as Casco Viejo, and stunning views of the Panama Canal.
As you exit customs at Tocumen International Airport, you will be met and privately transferred to your hotel in Panama City, approximately 30 minutes away. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or begin exploring your surroundings.
Overnight- American Trade Hotel or similar
Enjoy a day at leisure to rest and recover from your journey, or to explore the city independently. (B)
Overnight- American Trade Hotel or similar
This morning, depart your hotel for a half-day guided tour of Panamá Viejo and Casco Viejo, designed to give you an engaging introduction to the rich history of Panama City.
Begin with a visit to the atmospheric ruins of Panamá Viejo, the original capital of Panama founded in 1519 and later sacked by the infamous pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. From there, continue to the picturesque Casco Viejo, or Old Quarters, established by the Spanish in 1673 after the destruction of the original city. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this charming district is known for its cobblestoned streets, colonial and neoclassical architecture, and vibrant public squares. As you walk through its historic alleys, your guide will share the stories that shaped this captivating city.
The tour concludes around midday, with the option to enjoy lunch at La Tapa del Coco, a well-regarded local restaurant serving traditional Afro-Panamanian cuisine. After lunch, return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. (B)
Overnight – American Trade Hotel or similar
This morning marks the conclusion of your time in Panama. After breakfast, transfer to Panama City Airport for your onward flight to San José.
Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival, your private transportation and English-speaking guide will greet you for your transfer to San José city centre.
San José, Costa Rica’s bustling capital, serves as the central hub for exploring the country’s tropical forests, beaches, and mountain regions. Here in the capital, you will discover impressive neoclassical architecture along Central Avenue and a mix of art nouveau and Victorian-style mansions in the Barrio Amón neighbourhood. Art and history enthusiasts can visit the Jade Museum and Gold Museum, while families may enjoy the children’s science museum, housed alongside an art museum in a former prison. San José also offers a wide variety of international restaurants and a lively nightlife scene, from salsa to electronic music. Dinner this evening will be enjoyed at a local restaurant. (B,D)
Overnight: Hotel Alta Las Palomas or similar
After breakfast, begin your historical city tour with a visit to the National Theatre, the most revered building in San José. Located on the southern side of Plaza de la Cultura, the theatre was constructed in 1897 and features a neoclassical façade flanked by statues of Beethoven and 17th-century Spanish playwright Calderón de la Barca. Inside, the marble lobby and auditorium are adorned with paintings depicting 19th-century Costa Rican life.
Continue to Democracy Square, a significant landmark where Costa Rica abolished its army in 1948, and cross downtown towards the Central Market. Though most locals now shop in supermarkets, this crowded indoor market retains an old-world charm, with vendors selling everything from spices and coffee beans to souvenirs. (3hrs 30mins)
Following your tour, travel by air-conditioned motorcoach to Arenal. Along the way, your guide will provide insight into the regions you pass through.
Arriving in the northern plains, you’ll be welcomed by the iconic Arenal Volcano, a region renowned for its lush natural beauty, hot springs, and adventure activities. While currently dormant, the volcano remains a powerful presence in the landscape and a symbol of Costa Rica’s geological vitality.
Situated in central Costa Rica within the Arenal Tilarán Conservation Area, the Arenal Volcano National Park includes eight of the country’s 12 protected life zones. It is home to the majority of Costa Rica’s 850 bird species, as well as capuchin monkeys, parrot snakes, jaguars, and deer. The park features a mix of grasslands and volcanic terrain.
From its trails, visitors can enjoy views of the Arenal and Chato volcanoes, as well as a striking crater lagoon. Hike through lava fields and rainforests, spot wildlife, and soak in thermal waters during your stay. (B)
Overnight – Nayara Springs or similar
This morning, enjoy a private guided visit to the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a memorable way to experience the rainforest from both the ground and the canopy. The Mystic Hanging Bridges tour is a 3km hike through lush jungle, crossing 10 fixed bridges and 6 suspended bridges. Your naturalist guide will highlight the unique species of plants and animals found at various elevations. The walk includes a stop at a 60-foot waterfall hidden within the rainforest and offers panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano from the highest bridge.
Continue on to the Sky Tram, which ascends smoothly through the rainforest, offering wide views as you rise along the mountainside. The tram continues to an observation platform at the highest point of the reserve, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the Arenal Volcano, the lake, and the surrounding forests.
In the afternoon, visit Tabacón Hot Springs from 15:00hrs to 20:00hrs, with dinner included. Nestled within the largest private rainforest reserve in Arenal, Tabacón features Costa Rica’s most extensive network of naturally flowing thermal mineral springs. The cascading waterfalls and numerous thermal river pools offer a relaxing and rejuvenating hydrotherapy experience. Water temperatures range between 22°C and 40°C (72°F to 105°F), with high mineral content and excellent flow. Dinner is served at Tabacón Hot Springs Restaurant. (B,D)
Overnight – Nayara Springs or similar
This morning, embark on a Private Peñas Blancas Safari Float, a peaceful river journey perfect for nature lovers of all ages. Float gently down the Peñas Blancas River, soaking in the sights and sounds of the rainforest. Keep an eye out for monkeys, caimans, iguanas, colourful birds, and the famous “Jesus Christ lizards” that can run across water. The float lasts around two hours at a relaxed pace, allowing time to observe wildlife and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
After the river trip, visit a local riverside farm for a traditional Costa Rican snack and a refreshing drink, such as fresh juice or locally brewed coffee, before returning to your hotel the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. (B)
Overnight – Nayara Springs or similar
This morning, enjoy a Private Coffee and Chocolate Tour at North Fields Farm, a hands-on cultural experience showcasing two of Costa Rica’s most celebrated crops. Begin with the coffee tour, which explores the global legacy of coffee, Costa Rica’s early cultivation practices, and the socio-economic impact of the industry. Walk through the stages of production, from seed to roasted bean, before tasting a freshly brewed cup at the source.
The tour continues with an introduction to the chocolate-making process, another integral part of Costa Rican tradition and cuisine. You’ll gain insight into the origins of cacao and how it is transformed into the rich chocolate you can sample on-site.
Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. (B,L)
Overnight – Nayara Springs or similar
Today begins with a Private Sloth Quest, a guided nature drive designed to observe Costa Rica’s most iconic and endearing creature in its natural habitat. With the help of your guide, you’ll explore the picturesque area surrounding Arenal Volcano, searching for both two- and three-toed sloths nestled among the treetops. Along the way, you may also spot monkeys, toucans, and iguanas.
After your sloth-spotting adventure, continue to Doña Priscilla Farm for a traditional Costa Rican lunch. Here, you’ll enjoy a warm, home-style meal and take part in a hands-on tortilla-making activity led by Doña Priscilla herself. Learn about the ingredients, preparation techniques, and cultural significance of this staple food. (B,L)
Overnight – Nayara Springs or similar
Depart Arenal this morning and travel by road to San José. Upon arrival, your luggage will be stored at the hotel until check-in becomes available from 1500hrs. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the city at your own pace. (B)
Overnight – Hotel Alta Las Palomas or similar
Following breakfast, a departure transfer will be arranged from your hotel to Juan Santamaría International Airport. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of 20% per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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