A land of rich natural wonders, Costa Rica is dedicated to eco-tourism and protecting its 600 miles of pristine beaches and lush tropical forests. Journey from San Jose, Costa Rica's colorful capital city located in the country's fertile Central Valley, to San Carlos. On your journey, pass the ancient Poas Volcano, reported to be the world's widest crater. Relax during your two-night stay in a thermal spa resort surrounded by rainforest and hot springs. In Cano Negro, a guided river boat trip in a panga (covered canoe) makes frequent stops to watch and photograph the rare butterflies, birds, river turtles and otters, sloths and other wildlife indigenous to this area. Later, submerge yourself in the soothing hot, mineral-rich waters at Tabacon Springs. See 100-foot-tall trees amidst a rich collection of flora and fauna in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and admire the delicate inhabitants of a nearby local butterfly farm. Traveling to the scenic region of Guanacaste on the northwest Pacific coast, stop a local cooperative and see its handmade products before arriving at your elegant beach resort overlooking the magnificent blue waters of Manazanillo Beach. Before heading home, enjoy some free time in Sarchi to shop for native crafts and souvenirs.
Itinerary:
Day #1 Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica - Lush forests and stunning waterfalls…rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines…Costa Rica is truly a slice of paradise. Your tour begins in the colorful capital city of San Jose. Upon arrival, relax and soak up the sights of your new surroundings.
Day #2 San Jose - Doka Coffee Estate - Tamarindo Beach (Guanacaste) - Travel through the verdant countryside of the Central Valley to the fertile region world-renowned for coffee. A tour of the Doka Coffee Estate highlights the history and cultivation of coffee and its importance to the Costa Rican economy. This afternoon, arrive in the Guanacaste region, known for its breathtaking beauty and fine sandy beaches. Here, rest and relaxation go hand-in-hand with mesmerizing ocean views and lush tropical greenery. Settle in for a relaxing two night stay in beachfront accommodations.
Day #3 Tamarindo Beach - Fun in the sun is in store for you as you enjoy this tropical paradise. Explore the nearby town and beaches, take an optional sunset cruise or simply relax by the pool and take advantage of the amenities offered at your beach and golf resort.
Day #4 Tamarindo Beach - Monteverde - You won’t believe your eyes as you travel into the Monteverde Cloud Forest, where trees grow to heights of 100 feet! In this spectacular ecosystem, you will encounter many incredible species of flora and fauna. Upon arrival in Monteverde, a nature walk allows you to discover the natural beauty of the cloud forest first hand. This forest is the home of the world’s largest population of the endangered quetzal, celebrated for its gorgeous jewel-toned plumage. Keep your eyes peeled and you may be lucky enough to spot this elusive bird!
Day #5 Monteverde - Begin your day by strolling past the colorful hummingbirds at the entrance of the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, where you will observe and learn about some of the most beautiful and fascinating insects in the tropics. The gardens contain more than 50 species of butterflies including the unique Calico butterfly, the only butterfly in the world to produce sound. Later, enjoy a sky walk tour above the tree top canopy of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Enjoy viewing and learning about the flora and fauna of the area on a leisurely-paced walk along a series of hanging bridges with lengths of up to 984 feet. After your tour you have the opportunity to plant a tree that is indigenous to the area and aid in the crucial reforestation work that is taking place here.
Day #6 Monteverde - Lake Arenal Cruise - Arenal - Travel through the beautiful mountainous landscapes of Monteverde to Tierras Morenas. Visit a local school sponsored by the tour group Foundation*, meet the children and learn about the educational system and lifestyle of this small farming community. Continue on to Arenal, where breathtaking views of the volcano await you during a delightful cruise on Lake Arenal, the largest and most important lake in Costa Rica. Later, check in for a two night stay at a typical lodge overlooking the majestic Arenal Volcano which has been generating lava for the past 30 years.
Day #7 Arenal - Cano Negro - Arenal - Of all Costa Rica’s nature preserves, the remote 20,000 acres of Cano Negro are home to the largest viewable selection of indigenous wildlife. Embark on a Cano Negro guided river boat trip in a panga (covered canoe), making frequent stops to watch and photograph the wildlife around you which may include crocodiles, river otters, sloths, river turtles, exotic birds and rare butterflies, all known to live in the area. The Arenal Volcano area is also known as the land of spas and hot springs. Later in the day you will have an opportunity to attain a state of complete relaxation with an optional visit to one of the finest spas in the region.
Day #8 Arenal - Poas Volcano - San Jose - Take a leisurely ride through the countryside for a visit to ancient Poas Volcano, a powerful symbol of the geothermal forces that formed Costa Rica. Its crater is 1,050 feet deep and a mile wide, making it the largest active crater in the world. The lower slopes of Poas Volcano are dotted with fruit farms and huge ornamental flower farms of roses and lilies. Continue on to San Jose where you will enjoy a wonderful farewell dinner.
Day #9 San Jose - Tour Ends - Today you depart for home with fabulous memories of your adventure in Costa Rica.