Happiest Sober in Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Wildlife & Beaches with Madeline
May 5, 2026 - May 11, 2026
Sober Trip
$2,799 USD
BOOK WITH 25% DEPOSIT
Happiest Sober in Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Wildlife & Beaches with Madeline
May 5, 2026 - May 11, 2026
$2,799 USD
BOOK WITH 25% DEPOSIT
Join Happiest Sober founder Madeline Forrest for an unforgettable alcohol-free journey through the vibrant landscapes of Costa Rica – where volcanoes rise from misty jungles, waterfalls tumble through lush valleys, and golden beaches meet the Pacific. This thoughtfully designed adventure blends exploration, mindfulness, and connection, inviting you to experience the magic of travel with complete clarity and presence.
From the colorful streets of San José to the volcanic slopes of La Fortuna and the serene beaches of Tamarindo, you’ll uncover the best of Costa Rica’s natural and cultural treasures. Paddle across Lake Arenal beneath the gaze of a majestic volcano, wander through the cloud forests of Monteverde, and learn the art of coffee and chocolate making from local growers. Each moment celebrates curiosity, growth, and joy – without the need for a drink in hand.
Along the way, you’ll share laughter, reflection, and connection with a community of like-minded travelers who value authenticity and adventure. With a balance of guided experiences and free time, this is your chance to reconnect with nature, yourself, and others – and to discover just how full life can feel when you’re fully present.
Trip Start: San Jose, Costa Rica - Tuesday May 5th, 2026
Trip Finish: San Jose, Costa Rica - Monday May 11th, 2026
Trip Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Accommodation: 6 Nights Hand-picked ⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ⭐⭐⭐ Hotels (Shared & Private Available)
Included Meals: Breakfast Daily, Dinner x 3
Group Size: Up to 19 Guests
Inclusions
Accommodation: 6 Nights Hand-picked ⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ⭐⭐⭐ Hotels (Shared & Private Available)
Included Meals: Breakfast Daily, Dinner x 3
Hosted by Madeline Forrest (Happiest Sober)
Experience English-speaking Local Guides
Private Air-Conditioned Transportation Throughout
All Sightseeing and Entrance Fees as Per Itinerary
Group Airport Transfer on Arrival Day
Group Welcome Meeting and Introductions
Welcome Dinner at a Non-Alcohol Venue Featuring Local Cuisine
Scenic Drive from San José to La Fortuna
Guided Kayaking Experience on Lake Arenal
Free Time to Relax by the Pool in La Fortuna
Guided Hike in Arenal Volcano National Park
Visit and Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall
Scenic Drive from La Fortuna to Tamarindo
Coffee and Chocolate Plantation Tour with Tastings
Free Time to Explore Tamarindo’s Beaches and Town
Optional Beachfront Yoga Session in Tamarindo
Optional Spa or Massage Experience in Tamarindo
Optional Half-Day Snorkelling Tour at Catalina Islands
Farewell Dinner in Tamarindo
Group Airport Transfer on Departure Day
Exclusions
Arrival/Departure Flights
Visa/Entry Requirements
Meals Not Mentioned in Inclusions
Personal Expenses incl Tips
Travel Insurance (Required)
Your Host
Madeline Forrest @happiestsober
Hi! I’m Madeline and I’m from Toronto, Canada. I’m a sober content creator (@happiestsober), podcast host of Happiest Sober Podcast, and founder of the Happiest Sober Hub. I got sober in November 2020 and discovered that life is so much happier for me without alcohol in it. Now I’m passionate about sharing that message and inspiring others on their sober journeys. I hosted my first sober group trip in May 2023 and it was truly a life-changing experience. If you’re nervous about sober travel and you want to do it in a safe, supportive environment, OR if you’re just excited to travel and connect with other sober people, I hope you’ll join me!
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in San José
Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival at San José Airport (SJO), you’ll be met for a group transfer to your hotel in the heart of the capital. The afternoon is free to unwind or explore San José’s colorful streets and markets, perhaps visiting the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden or National Museum.
At 5:00 PM, meet your tour leader and fellow travelers for a welcome meeting to go over trip details and share introductions. Afterwards, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a non-alcohol venue serving authentic “Tico” cuisine – a perfect opportunity to connect with your new travel community.
🏨 Accommodation
-
Gran Hotel Costa Rica ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar
🍽️ Included Meals
-
Dinner
✅ Activities
- Group Transfer from Airport
- Welcome Meeting and Dinner
Day 2 Journey to La Fortuna and Lake Kayaking
After breakfast, travel north through lush countryside to La Fortuna, a charming town at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Famed for its natural hot springs and serene rainforest views, it’s one of Costa Rica’s most picturesque destinations.
Upon arrival, enjoy an invigorating Kayaking Experience on Lake Arenal, surrounded by volcanic peaks and jungle scenery. Keep an eye out for monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds as you glide across the calm waters. In the evening, relax by the pool before heading out for dinner with your group.
🏨 Accommodation
-
Los Lagos Hotel, Spa & Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar
🍽️ Included Meals
- Breakfast
- Dinner
✅ Activities
- Scenic Drive to La Fortuna
- Kayaking on Lake Arenal
Day 3 Exploring Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall
Today offers an incredible immersion in the natural wonders of La Fortuna. Begin with a Guided Hike through Arenal Volcano National Park, following the Sendero Las Coladas and Sendero El Ceibo trails. Walk across hardened lava flows and through lush rainforest alive with bird calls and tropical plants.
In the afternoon, continue to the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall – a 70-metre cascade plunging into an emerald pool. Descend into the canyon to swim or simply relax among the surrounding greenery, soaking in the tranquil energy of the rainforest.
relax by the pool before heading out for dinner with your group.
🏨 Accommodation
-
Los Lagos Hotel, Spa & Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar
🍽️ Included Meals
-
Breakfast
✅ Activities
- Guided Volcano Hike
- Visit to La Fortuna Waterfall
Trip Photos
Important Notes
ARRIVAL:
A group arrival airport transfer is included. More information on this will be provided once the trip is confirmed. Your arrival airport is San José Airport (SJO).
DEPARTURE:
On the final day, you are free to depart at any time, however a group departure transfer is included to take you to the airport. Your departure airport is Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, also known as Guanacaste Airport and Liberia International Airport (LIR).
AIRPORT TRANSFERS:
Group airport transfers are included as part of this trip. If you are unable to join the allocated group transfers, you will need to make your own arrangements. More specific information on transport options for your arrival and departure airports will be available on the airport websites.
Pre-booked airport transfers are available for most airports via Expedia – please select “Cars” and then “Airport Transportation”: https://bit.ly/expedia-best-in-travel-vip
ADDITIONAL NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION:
We are unable to organise additional nights accommodation on your behalf. Our exact hotels will be finalised and advised roughly 2-3 months prior to the trip starting. We will advise guests once that happens, and we then recommend booking accommodation via our affiliate link at https://bit.ly/booking-com-best-in-travel
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Be sure to check entry requirements based on the passport that you will be travelling with. It is your responsibility to ensure that your passport meets minimum requirements, and that you have arranged any required visas before arrival. Visa information is available in the destination guide linked below.
DESTINATION GUIDE:
For a detailed destination guide for this trip’s location, head to https://bestintravelgroup.com/costa-rica-destination-guide/
TRIP CONFIRMATION:
A trip is listed as PENDING until the minimum guest numbers are reached, at which point the trip becomes CONFIRMED. Guests will be notified when a trip becomes CONFIRMED.
BOOKING FLIGHTS:
We do not recommend booking flights until your trip is CONFIRMED.
BOOKING T&Cs:
We recommend you familiarise yourself with our Booking Terms & Conditions for more information about our booking, deposit and cancellation policies.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Travel insurance is required, and this will need to organised independently. There are a number of travel insurance comparison websites available. We do not recommend organising this until your trip is CONFIRMED.
For more information on travel insurance head to https://bestintravelgroup.com/protect-your-adventure-best-in-travels-guide-to-travel-insurance/
ISSUES & CONTACTS DURING THE TRIP:
If you experience any issues that you need resolved during this trip, please chat to your host or your local driver/guide. Emergency contact details for your local trip operator will be provided prior to the trip starting.
For more information on the correct process for handling issues during a trip, including emergency situations, please read the following guide: https://bestintravelgroup.com/managing-emergencies-other-issues-on-your-best-in-travel-adventure/
INCLUSIVITY:
For information on how Best In Travel creates a welcoming space for all travellers, please head to: https://bestintravelgroup.com/everyones-welcome-inclusivity-on-best-in-travel-group-trips/
TRAVELLER CONDUCT & WELLBEING:
For a quick guide on how to enjoy our group trips safely, respectfully, and with the right balance of fun and wellbeing, head to: https://bestintravelgroup.com/group-trips-great-times-how-to-eat-drink-stay-well-on-the-road/
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