Costa Rica is a land of rich natural wonders and friendly people. Experience its striking flora and fauna during an aerial tram ride through the rainforest canopy of the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a boat ride featuring the vast array of bird life of the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, a nature walk through the lush Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and a trip to the mammoth Poas Volcano. A top naturalist offers in-depth knowledge of Costa Rica's ecology, geological wonders, and local history, as well as coffee processing techniques at a local coffee plantation. |
Itinerary:
Day #1 San Jose, Costa Rica - Welcome to Costa Rica, a land of rich natural wonders. During your timeless journey, explore an outstanding variety of flora and fauna in the nature reserves of Braulio Carrillo National Park, Tortuguero National Park, La Tirimbina Biological Reserve and Arenal Volcano Rain Forest. Upon your arrival today in Costa Rica’s vibrant capital, San Jose, relax and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, soaking up your new surroundings.
Day #2 San Jose - Poas Volcano - Doka Estate Coffee Plantation - View the spectacular scenery of the Central Valley, ringed by soaring mountains, as you travel to the mammoth Poas Volcano. Walk to the edge of the crater for a magnificent view of this amazing landscape. Next, attend a tour of the Doka Estate Coffee Plantation that highlights the importance of the coffee industry in Costa Rica. Tonight, gather for a special reception and dinner.
Day #3 San Jose - Braulio Carrillo National Park - Tortuguero National Park - Travel through Braulio Carrillo National Park which offers one of the richest rain forest canopies in the world. Stop at a local banana plantation, learning about its economic and social value to Costa Rica. Board your transport to cruise the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park, as your guide explains the rain forest eco-system and points out sites of interest. Tortuguero National Park protects over 350 species of birds and mammals, including 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered species such as tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters and manatees. Enjoy a memorable two-night stay at your eco-lodge surrounded by the beauty of a tropical forest and amazing wildlife. Learn more about your surroundings by visiting the world’s first Green Turtle Research Station and discover how to protect the turtle’s nesting habitat and eggs.
Day #4 Tortuguero National Park Canal Cruise - During an early morning bird-watching excursion, learn about the variety of local species and migratory birds that flock to this area. Later, experience a spectacular boat cruise through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, aquatic birds and exotic flora.
Day #5 Tortuguero National Park - Sarapiquí - San Carlos - A leisurely boat ride returns you to the mainland to travel to the fascinating Sarapiquí region. At La Tirimbina Biological Reserve, see first hand the process of making chocolate from the cacao bean and learn about the history and continuing importance of cacao to Central America’s economy. Continue to San Carlos where you will spend three nights in a sprawling rain forest resort nestled in 35 acres of magnificent gardens and tropical fruit trees overlooking the San Carlos River. Enjoy a tour of the botanical and butterfly gardens upon arrival.
Day #6 San Carlos - Penas Blancas River Safari - Your day begins with a river safari adventure as you leisurely float or personally paddle your raft down the Penas Blancas River. The local guide will point out the wide variety of trees, birds, giant iguanas, sloths, monkeys and other wildlife that you may see as you glide through the jungle. This eco tour, without the noise of a motor boat, is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the wonders of nature. You'll also meet a local family who has lived on the river for generations and learn about their history and lifestyle.
Day #7 San Carlos - Arenal Volcano - Breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano await you on a delightful cruise on Lake Arenal, the largest and most important lake in Costa Rica. Enjoy a wonderful lunch while overlooking the majestic Arenal Volcano which has been generating lava for the past 30 years. Later, experience the unique eco-system of pure air and rain forest with a delightful Arenal Hanging Bridges tour. Located in front of the Arenal Volcano, the nature trails and bridges within the primary forest bring you close to the birds, flowers and the lush vegetation. Observe the natural beauty and learn about the great variety of flora and fauna of the Arenal Volcano rain forest.
Day #8 San Carlos - San Jose - Returning to San Jose, tour the colorful Plaza de Cultural; the National Museum, which houses a collection of pre-Columbian art and other exhibits detailing the history of Costa Rica; and the National Theater, a magnificent building of post-baroque splendor. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day #9 San Jose - Tour Concludes - Your tour ends today, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful vacation.