Experience the ultimate Central American pickleball adventure by combining our Pura Vida Pickleball tour in Costa Rica with Panama Pickleball Paradise for an unforgettable 17-day journey. By booking both trips together, you'll save nearly $500 while enjoying two incredible destinations, world-class pickleball, and a seamless travel experience.

Designed for pickleball players and non-playing companions alike, this extended vacation blends organized play, professional coaching, cultural immersion, and plenty of time to relax and explore. You'll enjoy eight dedicated court days, featuring approximately 24 hours of pickleball, social play, clinics, and skill development led by expert instructors, including Navigo's popular pickleball professional, Rachael Kroog, in Panama.

Your adventure begins in Costa Rica, where you'll discover the country's famous "Pura Vida" lifestyle while exploring vibrant San José, the Pacific Coast, the wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park, and iconic attractions including Poás Volcano and the crocodile-filled Tárcoles River. Along the way, you'll experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine, local culture, and unforgettable natural beauty.

From there, continue to Panama, where modern city life meets rich history. Explore the colorful streets of Casco Viejo, witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, and enjoy more pickleball at premier local facilities. The journey concludes with a fun, social tournament alongside local Panamanian players, creating a memorable finale filled with friendly competition and cultural exchange.

Throughout both weeks, Navigo has carefully balanced active pickleball days with guided sightseeing, local dining experiences, and free time to relax. Whether you're looking to improve your game, explore two fascinating countries, or simply enjoy an extended escape with fellow pickleball enthusiasts, this unique combination tour delivers the very best of both Costa Rica and Panama.

Join us for the most comprehensive pickleball vacation Navigo has ever offered and experience two amazing countries, one incredible adventure, and countless memories both on and off the court.

17 days/16 nights

For your convenience, ACH bank transfers and credit cards are accepted, but they incur a merchant processing fee. To avoid this fee, you are always welcome to pay by check.

Included services such as accommodations, activities, and meals cannot be swapped, exchanged, or repurposed for alternate dates or uses. Unused services are non-refundable. Additional requests may incur extra costs.

Begin your day with the final preparations for the upcoming adventure. Double-check your travel essentials, ensuring all documents, pickleball gear, and personal items are packed. Take a moment to review the itinerary and any pre-departure information provided by Navigo.

Welcome to the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Costa Rica! Your adventure begins as you arrive in the bustling city of San José.

AM & PM: Arrival and Transfer to Hotel

Morning arrivals at Juan Santamaría International Airport will have the option of joining our scheduled transfers from the airport to the hotel. If your flight times don’t align or you’re arriving by other means, you can meet us at our hotel after lunch to start the tour with the group.

PM: Tour Briefing

Following your free time for lunch and check-in, your hosts will provide a comprehensive tour briefing, outlining the exciting pickleball schedule and the cultural highlights awaiting exploration.

PM: Guided Visit to San José's Historic Gems

In the late afternoon, embark on a guided exploration of some of San José’s most iconic landmarks. Begin with the National Theater, an architectural marvel and cultural hub. Marvel at its neoclassical design and rich history. Continue to the National Museum, where you’ll delve into Costa Rica’s past, from pre-Columbian artifacts to modern exhibits. Your expert guide will share fascinating stories and insights, making this visit both educational and inspiring.

As the sun begins to set, enjoy the vibrant energy of the city. San José’s twilight hues and lively street scenes provide a captivating backdrop to your cultural immersion.

PM: Special Group Dinner: A Culinary Celebration

In the evening, the group comes together for a special culinary celebration at Tiquicia Restaurant, known for its stunning views of the city. Indulge in a feast of local delicacies, paired with fine Costa Rican beverages. The atmosphere is lively, the conversation is flowing, and the shared meal becomes a memorable bonding experience. Toast to the adventures that lie ahead and savor the authentic flavors of Costa Rica in the company of newfound friends.

(Sleep in San José)

Get ready for a day packed with excitement and exploration! Start your morning with a dynamic pickleball session that caters to all skill levels, followed by the rich flavors of locally grown coffee during a special plantation visit and tasting. This day combines the thrill of sports, the beauty of nature, and the taste of local culture.

AM: Open Play Pickleball Session

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at our hotel, preparing for an exciting morning of pickleball. Our first pickleball experience will consist of 3 total hours of play. The first hour will be open play, the second hour will feature a certified instructor to offer tips and suggestions as requested, and the third hour will also be open play. Players will be grouped according to skill level or with others they requested in advance to play with.

PM: Lunch 

After an exhilarating morning on the courts, enjoy lunch on your own, choosing from numerous local dining options in San José or en route to our next stop.

PM: Coffee Plantation Visit and Tasting

After lunch, visit a nearby coffee plantation renowned for its exceptional beans. Engage in an informative tour that highlights the coffee production process, from the cultivation of coffee plants to the intricate steps involved in roasting. Conclude the visit with a delightful coffee-tasting session, savoring the rich flavors of Costa Rica’s finest brews and learning about the importance of coffee in local culture and economy.

Overnight in San José

 AM: Open Play Pickleball Session

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, energizing yourself for another engaging morning on the pickleball courts. Today's pickleball session will mirror Day 2’s schedule.

PM: Lunch and Poás Volcano Adventure

After an exhilarating morning on the courts, enjoy lunch on your own, choosing from numerous local dining options in San José. In the early afternoon, gather with the group for a scenic drive to Poás Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most active and accessible volcanoes. Explore the volcano's dramatic crater and marvel at the steaming fumaroles and lush surroundings. Your guide will provide insights into the geological and ecological significance of this stunning natural landmark.

PM: Local Cooking Class and Dinner

In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a special cooking class. This interactive experience will allow you to dive deep into Costa Rican cuisine, learning how to prepare traditional dishes from a local chef. You might learn to cook:

• Gallo Pinto: A classic Costa Rican breakfast dish made of rice and black beans, seasoned with bell peppers, onions, and cilantro, often served with scrambled or fried eggs and tortillas.
• Casado: A traditional meal consisting of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, a tortilla, and a protein such as chicken, beef, pork, or fish.
• Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice mixed with cilantro, onions, and bell peppers, served cold.
• Arroz con Pollo: A popular dish of rice cooked with chicken and a mix of vegetables, seasoned with saffron and other spices.
• Patacones: Twice-fried plantain slices, often served with black bean dip or pico de gallo.
• Tres Leches Cake: A decadent sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream), topped with whipped cream.

After the hands-on class, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious dinner featuring the dishes you helped create.

Overnight in San José

 AM: Breakfast and Departure from San José

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. After checking out, we will embark on our journey to the stunning central Pacific side of Costa Rica.

AM: Wildlife Viewing En Route to the Central Pacific Coast

As we travel towards Jaco, we'll make a stop at the Tarcoles River Bridge. home to a wild population of gigantic American crocodiles!

Midday: Zipline Tour

You'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. As you explore the property, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Your zip line adventure begins with a scenic tractor ride to the mountain’s peak. From there, you’ll make your way down via a thrilling series of zip lines—14 cables spanning a total of 3.5 kilometers, with the longest stretch reaching 2,400 feet. At the end of your journey, refreshments including fresh fruit and water will be waiting for you.

PM: Continue the Journey to Hotel

Following free time for lunch, we'll resume our journey southward to the beach town of Jaco. As we travel, keep your eyes peeled for more wildlife sightings along the way.

PM: Arrival and Check-In at Hotel

Sleep in Jaco

AM: Manuel Antonio National Park Visit

As always, start your day with a fresh and hearty Costa Rican breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a morning of jungle adventure! 

We are off to visit Manuel Antonio National Park. This renowned park is celebrated for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. Take a guided nature walk through the park, led by experienced local guides who will help you spot monkeys, sloths, exotic birds, and other fascinating creatures. Then free time to enjoy the warm waters of the Pacific.

PM: Lunch on Your Own

After working up an appetite at the National Park, take some time for lunch at a nearby restaurant. Explore local flavors and cuisine at your leisure, savoring the unique tastes of Costa Rica.

PM: Jaco Beach

Enjoy some well-deserved free time at Jaco Beach, where the sparkling ocean and golden sands provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Whether you choose to lounge by the water, take a dip in the waves, or explore the lively beachfront, this coastal paradise has something for everyone. Back at the resort,

Sleep in Jaco

AM: Pickleball Session 

As always, start your day with a fresh and hearty Costa Rican breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a morning of pickleball on the coast! 

Upon arrival, the group will engage in a 2-3 hour pickleball session, complete with optional coaching to enhance your skills and gameplay. Enjoy friendly matches and expert guidance in a beautiful outdoor setting, surrounded by tropical greenery and fresh air.

PM: Lunch, Animal Sanctuary Visit, and Rivier Cruise

Following your zip line adventure, enjoy lunch on your own at one of the local eateries in town. In the early afternoon, regroup for a visit to a nearby animal sanctuary. This sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of Costa Rica's wildlife. Learn about the various species native to the region, from sloths and monkeys to exotic birds and reptiles. The sanctuary staff will share stories of their rescue efforts and the importance of wildlife conservation in Costa Rica.

Next, we'll head to the Tarcoles River for an exciting river cruise, where you'll have the rare opportunity to observe crocodiles in their natural habitat up close. As we glide along the river, keep an eye out for other wildlife like tropical birds and iguanas that thrive in this unique ecosystem, making it a truly immersive experience in Costa Rica's natural beauty.

We'll return to Jaco after a packed afternoon where you'll enjoy free time at the resort for dinner on your own.

Sleep in Jaco

AM: Pickleball Tournament at Pura Pickleball

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast before starting your day with a thrilling pickleball session. Get ready for a two-hour, round-robin tournament of energetic play, surrounded by Costa Rica's natural beauty!

PM: Lunch on Your Own and Check-Out

After your morning pickleball session, return to the hotel for check-out and prepare for the scenic journey back to San José. Enjoy lunch on your own before we depart. 

PM: Transfer to San José

Board the transfer back to the capital city, where you'll be checking into a hotel for just one night. Relax during the scenic journey, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences you've had on the coast.

PM: Dinner at Barrio Escalante Gastronomic Zone 

In the evening, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of San José's Barrio Escalante Gastronomic Zone. This vibrant neighborhood is a hub of gastronomic innovation and creativity, offering a plethora of dining options to suit every palate. Indulge in a delectable dinner, sampling local and international cuisine in this dynamic culinary district.

Overnight in San José

Your pickleball adventure in San Jose concludes with a day focused on smooth departures and onward journeys.

AM - Leisure and Check-Out

Begin the day at your own pace, enjoying a leisurely morning and completing any remaining check-out procedures from your Son Jose hotel.

AM - Departure Transfers

Your Tour Directors in Costa Rica will be at your disposal to seamlessly transport you from the hotel to the airport for your flight to Panama. For those of you with very early or late departures, the hotel has a shuttle service to bring you to the airport on your schedule (must be reserved 24 hours in advance).

PM: Guided Walking Tour of Casco Viejo, Panama City

In the late afternoon, set out on a guided walking tour through the historic district of Casco Viejo, Panama City’s beautifully restored old quarter and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial architecture, historic churches, lively plazas, and boutique cafés while learning about the fascinating history that shaped Panama into a crossroads of the Americas.

Your guide will introduce you to some of the neighborhood’s most iconic landmarks while sharing stories of pirates, traders, independence movements, and the construction of the Panama Canal. Along the way, guests will also have the opportunity to sample Panama’s world-renowned Geisha coffee, considered among the finest coffees in the world and grown in the highlands of Boquete.

As evening approaches, Casco Viejo comes alive with music, warm lights, and stunning skyline views across the bay toward modern Panama City.

PM: Special Group Dinner: A Culinary Celebration

The evening concludes with a special group welcome dinner featuring traditional Panamanian flavors and local specialties. Enjoy a relaxed evening of great food, conversation, and tropical hospitality as the group gathers together for the first time. Guests will also have the opportunity to sample local Panamanian rum and toast to the exciting week ahead.

(Sleep in Panama City)

Prepare for a day that blends pickleball, wildlife, and the natural beauty of Panama. Today focuses on getting players comfortable on the courts ahead of tournament play while also offering an unforgettable afternoon exploring the lush rainforest surrounding the Panama Canal watershed. From social games and skills evaluations to spotting monkeys and sloths along the shores of Lake Gatún, this day captures the unique mix of sport and adventure that makes Panama so special.

AM: Pickleball Skills Evaluation and Social Play

Following breakfast at the hotel, the group will head to the courts for the first pickleball session of the trip. Today’s focus is on skill evaluation, tournament preparation, and building chemistry among players before the Panama Canal Cup begins. Guests will enjoy a mix of organized drills, social play, and coached sessions designed to help players settle into the week while getting valuable court time against fellow travelers.

Players will be grouped by skill level to ensure balanced and enjoyable games for everyone, whether preparing for competitive tournament matches or simply looking to enjoy social pickleball in a fun and welcoming environment. Navigo staff and local pickleball hosts will also provide information regarding tournament schedules, formats, and logistics for the days ahead.

PM: Lunch

After the morning session, enjoy lunch on your own before departing for one of Panama’s most scenic natural areas.

PM: Lake Gatún Boat Tour and Gamboa Rainforest Experience

In the afternoon, travel toward the Gamboa Rainforest, located along the banks of the Panama Canal and surrounded by dense tropical jungle. Board a guided boat excursion onto Lake Gatún, one of the most important bodies of water connected to the operation of the Panama Canal.

Cruise through the calm waters while searching for wildlife throughout the rainforest canopy and shoreline. The region is home to several species of monkeys, including capuchins, howler monkeys, and tamarins, along with sloths, iguanas, toucans, herons, and countless exotic birds. Your local guide will help spot wildlife while sharing insight into the ecosystem and the important role this rainforest plays within Panama’s biodiversity.

The combination of peaceful scenery, tropical wildlife, and views of ships transiting through the canal system creates a uniquely Panamanian experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

(Sleep in Panama City)