Exceptional Tailormade Vacations in Costa Rica

Where Travel Feels Personal

Because your trip should reflect you. Every journey is tailor-made to match your interests, travel style, and pace. From families and naturalists to adventurers and special interest groups, we design private Costa Rica vacations filled with authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Why Travelers Love Serendipity Adventures

Specialist Knowledge

With over 30 years of experience, we are leading experts in Costa Rica travel.

Custom Itineraries

Each trip is tailored to you based on your interests and preferred style of travel.

Unique Experiences

Our trips offer off-the-tourist-trail activities you can’t find with other companies.

Premium Service

We take care of all the details for your trip so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Dedicated Support

Our team of travel experts is in-country to provide real-time support during your trip.

Accessible Travel

Travel should be for everyone. We adapt to your needs to make your adventure possible.

Our Travel Philosophy

Your Journey at Your Pace

Private Guide

✓ Private Serendipity Guide and vehicle available 24/7.

✓ Serendipity Guide handles all logistics, shares deep knowledge of Costa Rica’s nature and culture, and shows you where the locals go.

✓ Activities can be arranged in private or non-private mode.

✓ 24/7 in-country support prior to and during the trip.

Dedicated Driver

✓ Dedicated Driver with a private vehicle.

✓ Driver available to you 24/7 to take you to activities, hotels, restaurants supermarkets, etc.

✓ Activities can be arranged in private or non-private mode.

✓ 24/7 in-country support prior to and during the trip.

Independent Travel

✓ Choose between private point-to-point transfers or self drive.

✓ Planning, routes, and insider tips taken care of by the Serendipity Team.

✓ Activities can be arranged in private or non-private mode.

✓ 24/7 in-country support prior to and during the trip.

Serendipity’s Services

EXCELLENT

Based on 66 reviews

Lisa Rosof

We just returned from a fabulous trip to Costa Rica arranged by Kim Kim with local specialist Adrian from Serendipity Adventures. Adrian and our driver Alex made the trip truly unique and thoroughly enjoyable even when torrential rains and flooding affected our itinerary. Adrian worked behind the scenes to pivot and rearrange the trip so that to us it was a seemless transition. The excursions were all enjoyable and successful as we were able to see a multitude of wildlife - birds, monkeys, sloths, and more. We enjoyed our Costa Rican tour of a family farm and learned to make some traditional dishes with a wonderful, gracious family. Alex was so much more than a driver. He was engaging and extremely knowledgeable about Costa Rican history, politics, agriculture, flora and fauna. The trip was extra special as we were celebrating our 30th anniversary, and we were surprised with gifts of wine and chocolate. Above all the Costa Rican people are genuine, helpful, knowledgeable, and thoughtful. We are so glad KimKim planned this trip as the variety of locations and activities would have been nearly impossible to find ourselves.

Jet George

I can't say enough good about Serendipity Adventures. We have traveled with them 3 times and everything was perfect. They customized our trip with everything we wanted and it all went well. All of the staff are wonderful and a delight to work with setting up our trip.

Jerry Cowdrey

My trip to Costa Rica was terrific. The Serendipity guides were very good, their knowledge of the places we went was excellent, their attention to details and willingness to help was excellent. I would use them again. Jerry Cowdrey

maya lal

We travelled to Costa Rica with Serendipity and the entire experience was exceptional from start to finish. From the moment we began planning the trip, communication was excellent. There was always someone available to answer questions quickly and clearly, which gave us real confidence when organising such a special holiday from the UK. Nothing ever felt too much trouble and every query was handled efficiently. The logistics throughout the trip were seamless. Transfers, pick-ups and excursions ran like clockwork, which meant we could completely relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about timings or arrangements. The accommodation choices were also outstanding and clearly very carefully selected. Each location felt different and special in its own way – from the incredible wildlife immersion of Corcovado National Park, to the misty beauty of Monteverde Cloud Forest, and finally the coastal atmosphere of Manuel Antonio. The progression of destinations worked perfectly and gave us a real sense of Costa Rica’s variety. A huge part of what made the trip so memorable was the quality of the guides and drivers Serendipity arranged. Both Ivan and Mariano were exceptional – knowledgeable, warm, and deeply passionate about their country. Their understanding of the ecosystems, wildlife and local culture added so much depth to the experience. It felt far more authentic than simply visiting places on a standard tour, because they helped us truly understand what we were seeing. When choosing a tour company for Costa Rica there is a huge amount of choice, but we would not hesitate to recommend Serendipity. Elena created our itinerary and it was incredibly well considered and thoughtfully planned. The balance was perfect: we felt fully immersed in the experiences and landscapes, yet the pace never felt rushed. There was space to slow down, take things in, and enjoy each place properly. What stood out most was how personal the trip felt. It didn’t feel like a packaged itinerary – it felt tailored to how we like to travel. Every stage flowed naturally into the next and the attention to detail was clear throughout. The trip genuinely exceeded our expectations and left us with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s wildlife, forests and coastline. If you’re looking for a company that combines excellent organisation with authentic experiences and carefully chosen local guides, Serendipity is a fantastic choice.

Andrea Goodwin

This was the best customer service experience that I've EVER had - from the collaborative trip planning with Helen who took the time to curate a trip experience that met my family's unique requests and needs, to each and every driver and tour guide while we traveled with throughout Costa Rica. I know that the Tican culture is warm and friendly, but truly every single person that Serendipity Adventures assigned to be with us on our trip felt like friends that we had known our whole lives. We felt cared for and safe, we had fun together and when there was an opportunity for these remarkable staff members to show off a bit of what makes Costa Rica special, they did it. From pulling over on the side of the road to show us a sloth, to taking us to local spots to try the "good stuff" that the locals eat and drink. It was a beautiful, magical and memorable experience every single day. What an exceptional country, culture and staff! If you are considering traveling to Costa Rica, definitely partner with Serendipity Adventures!

Alex R

White water rafting with the boys from Serendipity Adventures was one of the highlights of our trip to Costa Rica so far. We were a little anxious, as we hadn't much experience, but Dotty's expertise (and very forthright instructions) soon had us on the straight and narrow. Or the wide and fast flowing..... It was brilliant. Alonso was on hand nearby in the kayak to spray us with water if we were taking it too seriously, and Turbo made it look easy transporting our lunch single-handedly. Tackling the class IVs was exhilarating and being encouraged to jump overboard and just float on the current was also one of the best bits. Lunch was delicious too. A fabulous day, helped by the sunshine and great company. Most importantly the river was not crowded with other rafters. A must do if you come to this part of Costa Rica. Thanks so much.

Shoshana Beary

My dreams came true with Serendipity. I cannot give a higher recommendation. We were especially impressed with the guides and their compassion and knowledge of Costa Rica. We learned a lot and we felt well cared for. I cannot wait for our next visit.

James Warwick

My partner and I visited Costa Rica for the first time in mid July. In my early research, I found Serendipity Adventures on the internet and was contacted by Holden Ketchum. Holden listened carefully to the type of adventures we wanted to have. We corresponded for a week or so, making adjustments to the places we wanted to visit, the activities we wished to enjoy...and my budget restraints. We've just returned after the most magical journey of our lifetime. The pics below cannot express how beautiful this country is with its people's outstanding regard for nature and the environment. Thank you to our wonderful guides, Andreas, Juan, Mariano, Alex and especially Wilman, who texted us throughout our 11 days journey just to check in and give us driving directions if needed. Our budget was approx.$300 each per day. The 4x4 that Serendipity rented for us, the three very different places we stayed for 3-4 days each, ranging from a small hacienda on a coffee plantation to a stunning hotel on the Pacific coast overlooking the ocean, could not have been better. I cannot recommend Serendipity Adventures too highly. From Holden's thoughtful and personal planning of the whole trip to the support and care throughout, from the whole office administration, to our guides and most of all, to Costa Rica. A global role model in preserving peace and harmony with nature.

Jamie mellalieu

Can’t recommend these guys enough. Arranged a 7 day trip for us in Costa Rica, the only brief being “part chill, part adventure” and the trip was amazing. Super communicative throughout , excellent and knowledgable drivers, amazing tours and activities. Wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 99 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Janet H 
 
 
 
 Verified Grandparents Mimi and Papa take the Family to Costa Rica
Serendipity Adventures planned an exceptional trip for our multi-generational family ages 7 - 74. We visited three main areas of Costa Rica; Arenal (La Fortuna), the Monteverde Cloud Forest and Tamarindo on the Pacific Coast. The activities were thoughtfully curated to appeal to all of us, regardless of age and included Nature Preserve Tours, Hanging Bridges Tours, Cloud Forest Tours, River Wildlife Safaris and Estuary Tours with incredible naturalists. Our coffee and cacao farm tour was terrific and very interactive and we made our own chocolate bon bons. And the ziplining was so much fun, even in a tropical storm downpour. Our lodging was outstanding and provided pools for afternoon breaks and swimming for the grandchildren. And every transfer between locations and adventures went off without a hitch. Serendipity was so attentive to our needs and questions before and during the travel. They were available 24/7 while on the trip and were excellent at adjusting things as unseasonable storms caused some changes. We felt like we were in excellent hands. I cannot recommend them highly enough. They know what they are doing, their service is top notch, and their sub-contractors were excellent. My goal was for us to experience the rainforest and see birds and animals and we did. The greatest testimonials are from the grandchildren, ages 7-12. I asked them to keep a journal of our adventures. They could write or illustrate their entries. I never had to beg them to make their journal entries. I couldn't believe it! Every night, they enthusiastically recording their impressions with colorful drawings and statements. This Costa Rican experience is something they, and we, will remember forever. I'm grateful to Serendipity Adventures for making it happen.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lisa866 
 
 
 
 Verified Cost Rica
We just returned from a fabulous trip to Costa Rica arranged by Kim Kim with local specialist Adrian from Serendipity Adventures. Adrian and our driver Alex made the trip truly unique and thoroughly enjoyable even when torrential rains and flooding affected our itinerary. Adrian worked behind the scenes to pivot and rearrange the trip so that to us it was a seemless transition. The excursions were all enjoyable and successful as we were able to see a multitude of wildlife - birds, monkeys, sloths, and more. We enjoyed our Costa Rican tour of a family farm and learned to make some traditional dishes with a wonderful, gracious family. Alex was so much more than a driver. He was engaging and extremely knowledgeable about Costa Rican history, politics, agriculture, flora and fauna. The trip was extra special as we were celebrating our 30th anniversary, and we were surprised with gifts of wine and chocolate. Above all the Costa Rican people are genuine, helpful, knowledgeable, and thoughtful. We are so glad KimKim planned this trip as the variety of locations and activities would have been nearly impossible to find ourselves.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   DLT 
 
 
 
 Verified Royal treatment in Costa Rica....best tour company ever!
What an amazing company! What a wonderful experience! I'll admit our friends planned the entire trip as they had worked with Serendipity twice before. We loved every minute. The company is very responsive to any questions and suggestions you may have prior to the trip. We were greeted at the San Jose airport by Alex who would be our main driver between each stop. He was amazing and we always felt safe in his competent hands. His knowledge of each area, each stop, what to see on the way was superb. Each hotel was top notch from the first greeting at reception...often with a local fruit drink. (which was appreciated as it was often hot!) to the time to check out. From San Jose to Turrialba, to the Dota region (mountains and I loved it!) to the Pacific side.....a real taste of what Costa Rica is. They will custom tailor your trip for the number of days you will be in country and the interests you have. The two men were there to do bird photography. My husband came home with over 2000 pictures! The ladies enjoyed the spa at Savegre while the men did a birding tour. We joined them on a few of those also. Walks through national parks, Cacao, Coffee and Winery tours (the only winery in Costa Rica and has wonderful wines!) Every day a new adventure. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to all who travel to Costa Rica. Don't even try another company...this is the best! Wish they planned tours all over the world! Thank you Serendipity staff for a trip of lifetime.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Kimberly L 
 
 
 
 Verified Costa Rica Bucket List Vacation
We just returned from the most magical journey of our lifetime—our very first adventure in Costa Rica! When we started planning, we had no idea where to begin, but that's where Holden stepped in as our trip-planning MVP. He not only guided us on location but artfully refined our 12-day itinerary to include both rainforest and beach stays, ensuring we experienced the full wonder of Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems. The hotels he recommended—Amor Arenal and Capitan Suizo—exceeded every expectation, offering the perfect blend of comfort and discovery. And behind the scenes, Adrian was our 24/7 logistical wizard. Always responsive and calm, Adrian handled last-minute twists with a smile, making sure everything ran smoothly. Alex, our chauffeur extraordinaire, made every drive feel like a rolling comedy and nature documentary. From the airport to both hotels, Alex shared fascinating tidbits about local government, flora, and fauna, keeping us entertained and informed along every mile. If there's a trivia contest about Costa Rican wildlife, we're ready! Guillermo, our nature whisperer, made the Hanging Bridges and Rio Celeste tours unforgettable. With uncanny expertise, he spotted howler monkeys, vipers, frogs, tapir tracks, and recognized birds just by their calls. He even introduced us to the rare One Day Flower, making us feel like lucky explorers in a living postcard. And the beauty of Costa Rica— the pictures below can't possibly capture it. This country is breathtaking, and its people show an outstanding regard for nature and the environment. Every aspect of our trip went seamlessly, and every person we met was warm, gracious, and welcoming. If you want your next Costa Rican getaway to be extraordinary—from sloth finding to sail boating with a sound track of howler monkeys and memories to last forever—Serendipity Adventures and their dream team are the way to go!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Virginia D 
 
 
 
 Verified Would definitely use this company again.
I thought Serendipity was very knowledgeable and helpful on the tour. In addition, to being pleasant. I was there for 11 days and 7 would have been enough. However, if we went into San Jose, then I would have wanted 11 days. Keep in mind that my review is based on the fact that I am a sightseer and cannot swim and would never sit near a pool or beach.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   MartyYGA 
 
 
 
 Verified A great tour to Arenal and the waterfall.
Roy was our guide up to the Arenal volcano and down to the waterfall. He was wonderful - very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna as well as the history of the region. We recommend him very strongly. It was a great experience for us and our grandson.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   maya 
 
 
 
 Verified A Perfectly Planned Costa Rica Adventure with Exceptional Guides.
We travelled to Costa Rica with Serendipity and the entire experience was exceptional from start to finish. From the moment we began planning the trip, communication was excellent. There was always someone available to answer questions quickly and clearly, which gave us real confidence when organising such a special holiday from the UK. Nothing ever felt too much trouble and every query was handled efficiently. The logistics throughout the trip were seamless. Transfers, pick-ups and excursions ran like clockwork, which meant we could completely relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about timings or arrangements. The accommodation choices were also outstanding and clearly very carefully selected. Each location felt different and special in its own way – from the incredible wildlife immersion of Corcovado National Park, to the misty beauty of Monteverde Cloud Forest, and finally the coastal atmosphere of Manuel Antonio. The progression of destinations worked perfectly and gave us a real sense of Costa Rica’s variety. A huge part of what made the trip so memorable was the quality of the guides and drivers Serendipity arranged. Both Ivan and Marciano were exceptional – knowledgeable, warm, and deeply passionate about their country. Their understanding of the ecosystems, wildlife and local culture added so much depth to the experience. It felt far more authentic than simply visiting places on a standard tour, because they helped us truly understand what we were seeing. When choosing a tour company for Costa Rica there is a huge amount of choice, but we would not hesitate to recommend Serendipity. Elena created our itinerary and it was incredibly well considered and thoughtfully planned. The balance was perfect: we felt fully immersed in the experiences and landscapes, yet the pace never felt rushed. There was space to slow down, take things in, and enjoy each place properly. What stood out most was how personal the trip felt. It didn’t feel like a packaged itinerary – it felt tailored to how we like to travel. Every stage flowed naturally into the next and the attention to detail was clear throughout. The trip genuinely exceeded our expectations and left us with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s wildlife, forests and coastline. If you’re looking for a company that combines excellent organisation with authentic experiences and carefully chosen local guides, Serendipity is a fantastic choice.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   4Granddaughters2013 
 
 
 
 Verified Fabulous
When had a birding trip in Costa Rica. Our accommodations were great and everything they had us doing on 5 days we were there was fantastic. I highly recommend their guides too. Very knowledgeable!!! Margaret Lauletta
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   NancyLovesnature 
 
 
 
 Verified Rainforest adventure and beach relaxation
Serendipity adventures went beyond our expectations to plan unique excursions into the rainforest and beach area. The logistics were smooth and easy. Our guide, Mariano, was incredible as he is local to the area, flora and fauna very well. Our drivers and guides were friendly and fun. They know where to take you for good restaurants that are local to the area. Our hotels were fantastic. Highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Mike T 
 
 
 
 Verified Arenal Volcano hike and LaFortuna Waterfall
Spent a great day with our guide Mariano hiking the Arenal Volcano and LaFortuna waterfall. Mariano was very knowledgeable of the wildlife, vegetation, etc., and did a great job explaining it to us. He also had a great personality - kept things fun and interesting.