Pura Vida explores three different regions in Costa Rica - the rainforests of the Northern Caribbean lowlands, the cloud forests of the rugged Central Mountain range and the dramatic tropical landscapes of Arenal, home of the majestic Arenal lake and Volcano.
You’ll participate in a number of guided nature hikes, where you’ll encounter a variety of exotic birds and butterflies and encounter troops of noisy howler monkeys moving through the rainforest canopy patrolling their territory. Optional activities include a Class 3 white water rafting expedition, a gentle boat tour through the jungle or an exciting walk on a rainforest canopy among the treetops.
Difficulty: Easy, involves a moderate degree of leisurely walking.
Departure Date: Any day.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Upon arrival at the international airport in San Jose, you will be met by your tour rep from Costa Rica Trails and transferred to your hotel. Participants will receive a Welcome Kit including information on Costa Rica, a map, brochures of properties and attractions, and recommendations on what to bring and wear during the excursions.
Overnight: Grano de Oro
Day 2: In the morning, you’ll depart to Sarapiquí, located in the Northern lowlands just 1 ½ hours from San Jose. The trip to Sarapiquí will pass through Braulio Carrillo National Park, banana plantations, and bamboo thickets. Located in a region of dense rainforests and fast flowing rivers, Sarapiquí is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world and nearby La Selva Biological Station shelters researchers from many different countries. En route a stop will be made at Quebrada Gonzalez’s trail at Braulio Carrillo National Park.
Overnight: Sueño Azul Resort
(B, L, D)
Day 3: Day at leisure in Sarapiquí. Optional activities rafting or boat tours to the Sarapiquí River, horseback riding and a hiking tour to a hidden waterfall. Or way may want to go on a leisurely nature hike where you’ll encounter many exotic birds, monkeys and other inhabitants of the jungles and learn about the intricacies and ecology of the tropical rainforest
Overnight: Sueño Azul Resort
(B, L, D)
Day 4: Today, you will journey to Bosque de Paz forest reserve, stopping along the way at Poás Volcano and La Paz Waterfalls Nature Park. The impressive, active Poás Volcano has one of the largest craters in the world, about 1 mile wide. Besides walking to visit the crater's sightseeing point, you may also wish to wander through the cloud forest to the nearby Botos Lagoon, a former crater which today is a picturesque lagoon.
The viewing terrace provides a bird’s-eye view not only 1050 ft down into the bowels of the volcano, with its greenish sulfuric pool, but also a magnificent view of the northern lowlands. La Paz Waterfalls Nature Park offers treks to some beautiful waterfalls, as well as an orchid garden, the world’s largest butterfly observatory and a hummingbird gallery where visitors can observe these birds in their natural habitat. This location boasts a marvelous view of the Poás Volcano.
Overnight: Bosque de Paz Lodge
(B, L, D)
Day 5: Day at leisure at Bosque de Paz, a 1200-acre privately owned Biological Reserve with dense, fog-shrouded cloud forests. The Reserve is a natural biological corridor that connects the Poás Volcano National Park with Juan Castro Blanco National Park. It is a spectacularly rich ecosystem that straddles the Continental Divide with altitudes ranging from 1400 to 2450 meters above sea level.
The area abounds with wildlife and offers outstanding opportunities for observing birds and butterflies. Guided nature walks through the forest reserve will reveal hidden waterfalls and natural springs. There are also dedicated trails for orchids and bromeliads and the compound has a wonderful reference library and offers meditation and anti-stress programs. Get a certificate for planting a tree.
Overnight: Bosque de Paz Lodge
(B, L, D)
Day 6: After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the Arenal region. The majestic Arenal Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Western Hemisphere, constitutes the main attraction in this northern region. Its perfectly formed cone and constant eruptions of lava impress visitors from all over the world. Located in the northern part of the Alajuela province, close to the Nicaraguan border, the Arenal region possesses beautiful and varied scenery. Refreshed by gentle tropical rains, this land stays green and humid almost all year round.
There will be an afternoon hike through the Silencio Farm trails, where you may encounter monkeys and a large variety of birds including toucans. Late in the afternoon, you will be taken to Ecotermales, a complex of natural hot springs with magnificent views of Arenal Volcano. Relax in the thermal waters and enjoy the view! Dinner will be served at the Ecotermales facility.
Overnight: Montaña del Fuego
(B, D)
Day 7: Today you will be transferred by car back to San José.
Overnight: Grano de Oro
(B)
Day 8: Transfer from the hotel to the International Airport
(B)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Details (Valid: 2008.06.01 - 2008.08.31):
- Double: $1349.00
- Single: $1659.00
Price Details (Valid: 2008.09.01 - 2008.11.30):
- Double: $1319.00
- Single: $1609.00
*Single rates are based in two passengers traveling in single occupancy.
Inclusion:
Rates per person and include accommodations at specified hotels, hotel taxes and service charges, meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner), all excursions and sightseeing as detailed, admission fees, domestic flights, VIP airport transfers and services of a tour guide with transfers on Days 2 and 4. The Tour operator reserves the right to substitute hotels of comparable quality as necessary. Rates are subject to change without notice.
Exclusion:
Rates do not include International airfare, beverages, tips, personal expenses and airport departure tax. Inquire about special, low reduced airfares!
Also see tour packages in:
Central America and Caribbean
Costa Rica
Rainforest
Ecotourism
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