Arrive, check-in and we will gather in the late afternoon at the hotel for a pre-trip briefing. This is where you will meet your guides and fellow swimmers. We will take a short walk down to the beach for an acclimatisation swim before returning to the hotel for dinner.

This morning, we jump on the boats from the beach and make our way to the peninsula opposite Culebra Bay. We start with a coastal swim into the bay of Nacascolo before taking a short break and some snacks. During our second swim we pass several small islands, offering hidden spots to discover a range of marine life. We then return for a late lunch and a free afternoon.

Today we travel to the edge of Playa Hermosa and start at the peninsula of Playa Penca. We then make our way to the nearby island of Montosa. After a break and some snacks on the boat, we continue our journey, heading around Islas Pelonas, where the shallow reef is perfect for exploring. Although tough to spot, Pacific seahorses frequent the coral area and if you are lucky, you may spot the resident hawksbill sea turtles. We return for lunch, and the afternoon is free for you to relax or explore the nearby sights.

Today we have a full day excursion to experience a taste of what Costa Rica has to offer. Ideal for nature lovers and guests looking to experience the volcanic landscapes and biodiversity of Guanacaste through a combination of hiking, scenic viewpoints, and relaxation. The experience begins with a guided hike through the Las Pailas sector of Rincón de la Vieja National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most fascinating volcanic ecosystems. Along the trail, guests will observe bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, volcanic steam vents, and tropical dry forest wildlife while learning about the geological activity and natural history of the region.

Following the national park visit, guests will continue to the beautiful Oropéndola Waterfall, a striking turquoise waterfall hidden within a lush canyon. Guests can descend the stairs to enjoy the refreshing natural pool and admire the dramatic scenery surrounding the waterfall.

After the activities, guests will enjoy a traditional lunch at Hacienda Guachipelín before continuing to the Río Negro Hot Springs. Surrounded by forest and naturally heated by the volcano, these rustic thermal pools provide the perfect setting to unwind and relax before returning to the coast.

Today is the perfect return to swimming with the first crossing of the week. You will join the boats in the morning after breakfast, where we will motor on to Culebra Bay. We swim ourselves across the bay, from one side to the other side, before taking a break on the boats. After a short rest, we travel around to the other side of the peninsula in preparation for our second swim - a coastal from Playa Virador. Then we head back to the hotel for a late lunch and another free afternoon to relax or explore.

Our final full day offers another chance to explore the coastline, swimming into the popular and deep cove to discover the black sands of Playas del Coco. After a short break, our final swim sees us start back at Playa Penca – only this time we swim ourselves back to the hotel, ready for the final evening and group dinner.

We have a final opportunity to take a short swim before saying our farewells at breakfast.

We have given this trip a ‘Leisurely’ grading designed for people who want to swim at a more relaxed pace and enjoy the scenery.

Please note, due to the prevailing conditions in this location, the swims will be completed earlier on in the day, giving you an opportunity to relax in the afternoon.

Swimming Distances

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience - however you should be aware that certain marine life such as sea lice, jellyfish, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures, however if you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the SwimTrek office prior to booking.

Walking Conditions

Most walks take place on recognised paths and tracks, however there may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces, and care should be taken in these areas. The walk on the Las Pailas Loop Trail in Rincon de La Vieja National Park during the full day excursion is a 3.5km circular path and includes uneven terrain and some large steps This walk may not be suitable for those with knee, ankle, walking or mobility issues. Closed toe shoes suitable for hiking are recommended.

Temperatures

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. Therefore, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort. 

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip varies each day depending on the type of swim but includes two main boats to be piloted by a local boat pilot along with your SwimTrek guides. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Extra Activities

On this itinerary, we’ve included a full day excursion to allow the chance to experience the volcanic landscapes and biodiversity of Guanacaste, including time in Rincon de la Vieja National Park and a visit to the Rio Negro hot springs.

There are a number of additional activities available, giving you the best opportunity to explore what Costa Rica has to offer. Should you wish to book onto an excursion at your own expense, this can be done through the hotel directly.

Equipment Checklist

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website.

There are no additional, specific items required for this location.

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don’t currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

The easiest way to get to Playa Hermosa is to fly to San Jose or Liberia Airport and get a private transfer to Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste.

Liberia Airport (LIR) to Playa Hermosa - Taxi

Flights are also available to Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport/Liberia Airport (LIR) which is 30 minutes from Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste.

From Liberia Airport, the quickest way to the hotel is by taxi. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs approximately $65/29,000CRC. There are also shared shuttle services, and these can be booked in advance, but we are unable to recommend a specific company.

San Jose Airport (SJO) to Playa Hermosa - Taxi

Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose (SJO) is the largest and busiest airport in Costa Rica. Private taxi transfers are available from the airport. The journey time to Playa Hermosa is approximately 3 hours and costs $300/135,000 CRC for 4 passengers depending on luggage. You can search for recommended companies via the airport website https://www.sjoairport.com/transporte/

San Jose Airport (SJO) to Playa Hermosa – Public Transport and taxi

It is possible to use public transport for most of your journey from San Jose Airport (SJO) to Playa Hermosa Guanacaste, but it involves several changes.

You can catch a bus from outside of the airport terminal to the main city of San Jose - look for the bus to Alajuela. This bus takes around 40 minutes.

From the main city, you will need to take a bus from Terminal 7-10 or the Pulmitan De Liberia terminal in San Jose. There are frequent buses to Liberia from San Jose, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours. You can purchase a ticket at the terminal.

From Liberia, there is a bus to Playa Hermosa (via Sardinal), but it is not very frequent or reliable, so it is easier and quicker to pick up a taxi from Liberia to Playa Hermosa directly.

All breakfasts and five lunches (four for non-swimmers as one is on a full day excursion) are included for swimmers in your trip price. Dinners are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore the menus and experience the local restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

The currency in Costa Rica is Costa Rican Colon (CRC). There are only two ATMs in Playa Hermosa and may not be reliable so please ensure you have enough cash with you. Some restaurants may take card.

You should bring extra money with you to cover items such as meals not already included in your package, drinks, entertainment, souvenirs, etc.

In some countries, tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service, it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

UK and US nationals do not require visa to enter Costa Rica; however, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 180 days (either to return to your country or to go to another country). Both UK and US passports must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you plan to leave Costa Rica. Other nationalities may require visas to enter Costa Rica.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Health Information and Recommended Vaccinations

Here at SwimTrek, we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However, we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

At Bosque del Mar there is free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas.

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit www.worldstandards.eu.