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zTreasures of Nature - Costa Rica

8 days

8 Day Small Group Escorted Tour

Small Group Discoveries for our World Travelers…

  • “Our Trip Leader was the absolute best… highly informed on birds, botanical and animals and knows their locations.” -- P.C., Kaunakakai, HI
  • Our 5-star and deluxe resorts and fine lodges promise a tranquil retreat after days of thrilling exploration. Experience more of Costa Rica’s natural wonders. We include naturalist-guided activities every day. Journey by boat into the Tortuguero wetlands, a unique ecosystem, home to diverse flora and fauna. Learn about Costa Rica’s unique animal life at the Iguana Farm, Ranarium and Butterfly Farm. Venture high into the jungle canopy on a guided Hanging Bridges tour in Arenal. Visit both a coffee and a sugar cane plantation to observe the fascinating processes that bring these staples to our breakfast table. Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest and go in search of the resplendent Quetzal.

Show all itinerary details

Day
1

Welcome to San José

Check in to the deluxe Real InterContinental and meet your Trip Leader. Then set out with your congenial group for a sightseeing tour the capital. During dinner, your Trip Leader will offer an informative orientation briefing. Meals D

Day
2

Through Braulio Carrillo National Park to the Caribbean

Travel overland through the lush Braulio Carrillo National Park rainforest to the pristine Caribbean coast for a scenic boat transfer through the wildlife-rich Tortuguero Canals. Check in to the terrific Mawamba Lodge and then explore Tortuguero village with your guide. This evening, enjoy dinner and another enlightening naturalist briefing with your Trip Leader. Meals B,L,D

Day
3

Explore Tortuguero National Park

Often referred to as “The Amazon of Costa Rica,” Tortuguero is a tropical wetland filled with exotic flora and fauna waiting to be discovered. Traveling in a boat specially designed for these canals, you’ll explore the extensive network of waterways that wind through the wildlife-rich vegetation. Your day also includes guided visits to the Iguana Farm, Ranarium (frog pond) and Butterfly Farm. Meals B,L,

Day
4

A waterfall, a volcano & a hot spring

Transfer by boat to Cano Blanco and then travel overland into the Sarapiqui Rain Forest. Enjoy a guided nature hike in the Tirimbina Biological Reserve, renowned for its immense variety of birds and more than 80 species of frogs and other amphibians. Continue on to Arenal for dinner and then check in to the luxurious Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa. Before you retire, relax in the soothing natural mineral pools and waterfalls of your resort. Meals B,L,D. Note: 2010 departures will stay at the Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort.

Day
5

Explore through the forest canopy!

Thrilling adventure awaits this morning. High above the forest floor, the jungle canopy is alive with unique flora, birds and other wildlife. Walking safely along bridges suspended high in the treetops, you’ll explore this hidden world. Then drive to the charming town of Fortuna for lunch and shopping before returning to your resort. You’ll have time again today to indulge in the eight beautifully landscaped hot spring pools of the Arenal Kioro, several with exceptional volcano views. Meals B,L,D

Day
6

From cloud forest to coffee plantation

Drive along the beautiful shores of Arenal Lake and continue on to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a haven for bird-watchers. After lunch, an afternoon visit to coffee and sugar cane plantations reveals the many-step process that brings these high-mountain beans to your morning coffee cup. Then watch as sugar cane is distilled into saca de guaro and sample this popular local liqueur. Enjoy a free evening at your tranquil resort, the deluxe El Establo Mountain Hotel. Meals B,L,D

Day
7

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Explore the Cloud Forest Preserve as your Trip Leader enriches your appreciation and understanding of this complex ecosystem. Then accompany him on a visit to the Hummingbird Gallery for an up-close look at these fascinating birds. Meals B,L,D

Day
8

Back to the capital

You’ll be escorted to San José where our tour services end. Or extend your vacation with 4 relaxing days on a spectacular Pacific beach… Our affordable Guanacaste Extension makes it easy! Meals B

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Feel free to add extra nights before or after your tour.

Ask about international air service on TACA.
See your travel agent or call us for current international airfare associated with this program. We offer both economy and business class fares. When you purchase air from us, arrival and departure transfers are automatically included. Prices are in U.S. currency and are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Availability is limited.

Family + Friends

Travel is one of  life's most rewarding experiences, perhaps even more so when it's shared with those you love! Take advantage of our Family & Friends offer and Save $100 per person anytime you book 4 or more people on the same A+R program.