Delve into the diverse ecosystem and subsequent incredible wildlife within Costa Rica. From jaguars, howler monkeys and green sea turtles to red-eyed tree frogs and scarlet macaws, this 10-day itinerary will take you right into their natural habitats for a very privileged encounter. You'll travel through the rainforest's canopy, over deep canyons and rugged mountains, and float down jungle rivers in the Tortuguero National Park. All the while enjoying the warm hospitality and natural beauty of this wonderful unspoiled country.
BEAUTY OF COSTA RICA
HIGHLIGHTS
- Kayak on Costa Rica's largest and most spectacular lake, Lake Arenal
- Enjoy a bird's eye view of the rain forest from above the canopy
- Visit the eco-tourist's paradise of Monteverde
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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrival, San Jose
Arrive Costa Rica’s capital San Jose, and transfer 20 minutes to the Grano de Oro; a tranquil oasis in this cultural metropolis. The perfect hub to start your adventure through Costa Rica; San Jose is full of historic neighbourhoods, contemporary art galleries and boutique hotels and restaurants.
Overnight: Hotel Grano de Oro
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Day 2 Doka Estate Coffee Farm & La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Spend the morning visiting the Doka Estate coffee farm, learning about their coffee’s growth cycle and production. The owners, the Vargas family have been pioneers is Costa Rican coffee production for more than 70 years and have won several awards for ‘The best estate coffee in Costa Rica’. Late morning head to La Paz Waterfall Gardens in time for lunch and an afternoon in the rainforest. Surrounded by rescued wildlife including jungle cats, capuchin monkeys and two-toed sloths, you’ll explore the paved trails that weave amongst flowing rivers and glorious waterfalls
Overnight: Hotel Grano de Oro
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Day 3 San Jose to Tortuguero
Leave the hustle and bustle of San Jose behind and head 1½ hours north east to the Tortuguero National Park, where the pace is slow and wonderfully relaxed. When the roads morph into rivers climb aboard a communal motorised canoe and arrive at Tortuga Lodge & Gardens; a quiet, elegant and rustic lodge on the banks of the river.
Overnight: Tortuga Lodge
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Day 4 Tortuguero
Dependent on the month of travel, today will either include a guided jungle trek, a chance to get involved with the local community and teach children English as part of the ‘Word Adventure’ initiative or the spectacular green sea turtles. Nesting takes place between July and October; an extraordinary opportunity to see a 300lb turtle lay her eggs before returning to the sea. The hatching period, from late August to November, is equally magical; when you can witness hundreds of tiny turtles run the gauntlet by moonlight down the sand and into the crashing waves.
Overnight: Tortuga Lodge
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Day 5 Tortuguero to Arenal
After breakfast, board the canoe and start the journey to Arenal, via Guapiles; the nation's gateway between the central highlands and the Caribbean coast, in time for lunch. After lunch drive to the charming and quiet town of La Fortuna which offers spectacular panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano. Arrive at the Nayara Hotel and unwind under the skilful hands of the therapists in the nature-inspired spa.
Overnight: Arenal Nayara & Gardens Resort
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Day 6 Kayaking on Lake Arenal
Enjoy a guided kayaking adventure on Costa Rica’s largest and most spectacular lake, Lake Arenal. Paddling close to the shoreline, you will enjoy wonderful views of the volcano, various species of birds such as the great blue heron, kingfisher, flycatcher and anhinga, as well as monkeys and iguanas.
Overnight: Arenal Nayara & Gardens Resort
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Day 7 Arenal Sky Tram & Sky Walk Tour
Today you will explore the rain forest from above the canopy, by Sky Tram. For a different but no less exhilarating forest adventure, we recommend you also try the Sky Walk. An impressive series of paths and bridges, several crossing canyons, which take you face to face with the upper level of the forest canopy. Be sure to pack your binoculars as this is your chance to spot birds and howler monkeys at their own level.
Overnight: Arenal Nayara & Gardens Resort
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Day 8 Arenal to Monteverde
After breakfast, head to the Monteverde Reserve, home to more than 100 different species of mammals, 400 species of birds and thousands of tropical plants. The Belmar is a cosy Austrian chalet-style hotel, which sits on a mountain top in the cloud forest, offering superb views over the forest and its inhabitants. After an afternoon spent exploring, enjoy an evening drink on your terrace with the stunning lush green backdrop and views of the Gulf of Nicoya in the distance.
Overnight: Senda Monteverde Hotel
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Day 9 Monteverde Biological Reserve Hike
The variable climate in the Monteverde Reserve helps produce a vast biodiversity, creating an abundance of wildlife in the forest. With your guide you will explore the well-marked trails, rivers and waterfalls in search of the elusive jaguar, ocelot, brightly-coloured emerald toucanet and if you're really lucky, the stunning quetzal. After a day on your feet, take some time to relax with a dip in the jacuzzi or an indulgent spa treatment.
Overnight: Senda Monteverde Hotel
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Day 10 Depart from San Jose
Travel back to San Jose International Airport by road where you will catch your flight home.
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Depart
| $ 4,699 |
INCLUSIONS
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary.
- Daily breakfast
- National Park entry fees
EXTRAS
- International flights.
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, gratuities (discretionary).
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included.
- Travel insurance or visa fees.
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REASONS TO BOOK
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