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Experience the best of Costa Rica on this specially crafted expedition. Visit La Selva Biological Station, the Arenal Volcano, Tabacon Hot Springs, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio National Park. Hike through rain forest and cloud forest ecosystems, swim near crystalline waterfalls, snorkel amid vibrant coral reefs, and horseback ride through lush forests.
Day 1 San José
Arrive in San José and transfer to the Sueño Azul Resort, located on a 1,200-acre private ranch and nature reserve near the Braulio Carrillo National Park.
Sueño Azul Resort
Day 2 Sueño Azul Resort
Today, choose from a float trip on the Sarapiquí River or a white-water rafting adventure on the Pacuare River (Class III–IV). Both excursions provide opportunities to see a diversity of wildlife in a spectacular tropical setting.
(B,L,D)
Day 3 La Selva Biological Station
This morning, visit La Selva Biological Station. Located at the confluence of two major rivers, La Selva comprises 3,700 acres of tropical rain forest and is one of the most important sites in the world for research on tropical rain forests. Local researchers will guide you on a nature walk through the station. Following lunch, drive to the Arenal Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. This evening, go up to the observatory deck for a chance to see the volcano’s colorful eruptions.
Arenal Observatory Lodge
(B,L,D)
Day 4 Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Hot Springs
Walk along the lava-landscaped paths at the base of the Arenal Volcano. View plants, birds, and other animal species in this rain forest ecosystem. In the afternoon, visit the thermal waters of the Tabacon Hot Springs, nestled amid the lush tropical vegetation at the base of the Arenal Volcano. Relax in its warm, soothing pools and waterfalls. In the late afternoon, continue to the town of Monteverde.
El Establo Mountain Resort
(B,L,D)
Day 5 Monteverde Cloud Forest
Today, hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, one of Costa Rica’s most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries. The cloud forest is home to more than 100 species of mammals; 400 species of birds, including the resplendent quetzals; 120 species of amphibians and reptiles; and 2,500 species of plants (including 500 different kinds of orchids), as well as tens of thousands of insect species. With luck, we may spot jaguars, ocelots, or tapirs. In the afternoon, take a canopy walk above the cloud forest or a more thrilling zip line canopy adventure.
(B,L,D)
Day 6 Monteverde Cloud Forest
View more than 40 species of local butterflies at the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, a peaceful place dedicated to butterfly and insect education. In the afternoon, travel to Manuel Antonio National Park and check into our lovely Mediterranean-style resort, situated atop a majestic bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by 400 acres of lush, tropical rain forest.
Hotel Parador
(B,L,D)
Day 7 Manuel Antonio National Park
This morning, take a guided walk of Manuel Antonio National Park in search of sloths, coatimundis (quashes), monkeys, butterflies, reptiles, and many varieties of wild birds. Or, take a horseback ride through the lush virgin rain forest of Quepos and the Manuel Antonio National Park area, home of toucans, parrots, beautiful butterflies, and many other animals. Along the ride, arrive at a natural pool with waterfalls and take a refreshing swim. The afternoon is free for exploring the town of Quepos or relaxing at the resort.
(B,L,D)
Day 8 and 9 Manuel Antonio National Park/San José
Enjoy a boat ride along the coastline of Manuel Antonio National Park. While exploring the area’s islands and islets, learn the history behind this national park and the native Quepos Indians, and watch for dolphins, whales, birds, and turtles. Stop to snorkel at a beautiful, calm beach and witness a thriving marine ecosystem and its vibrant coral reefs. In the afternoon drive to San José. Tonight, gather for our farewell dinner. Depart San José for individual return flights home after breakfast the next morning.
(B)
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