Trip Overview
Lush forests and stunning waterfalls…rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines…Costa Rica is paradise teeming with exotic plants and incredible animals. Explore the 20,000 acre nature preserve of Cano Negro. Spend two nights in Monteverde's fascinating cloud forest. Relax in the in mineral-rich waters at a family-owned hot springs with views of Arenal Volcano. Luxuriate at an all-inclusive resort for two nights in Playa Hermosa, known for its breathtaking beauty and fine sandy beaches.
Tour 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.
Lodging: Herradura Hotel, San Jose
Day 2: San Jose - Poas Volcano - La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
This morning you will have the opportunity to visit the local San Gabriel Shelter which is supported by the Collette Foundation. This shelter specializes in caring for Costa Rica's ill children. After the visit, leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and travel through the verdant countryside of the Central Valley. Travel past tropical landscapes and the ancient Poas Volcano, said to be the widest crater in the world. Later in the day you arrive in the charming town of La Fortuna. Here you will enjoy a two night stay at a typical lodge with breathtaking views of the majestic Arenal Volcano, which has been generating constant lava for the last 30 years.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging: Volcano Lodge or Arenal Springs Lodge, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano
Day 3: La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano) - Cano Negro - La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
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. During your visit, embark on a guided river boat trip in a panga (covered canoe), making frequent stops to watch and photograph the wildlife around you. Crocodiles, river otters, sloths, river turtles, exotic birds and rare butterflies are all known to live in the area. After your adventure through the preserve, relax at a family-owned hot springs oasis in the geothermal region that surrounds the Arenal Volcano. Stroll through the beautiful grounds, soak in the soothing mineral waters, or take advantage of the first-class spa services.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging: Volcano Lodge or Arenal Springs Lodge, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano
Day 4: La Fortuna - 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. Then you continue on to Selvatura Park, a cloud forest preserve in the heart of Monteverde. Your visit includes an exciting opportunity to fly through the cloud forest on a zip line canopy tour or to take a guided walk among the treetops on a series of hanging bridges! After your activity of choice, participate in a reforestation effort by planting a tree in this spectacular nature preserve. Finally, you will learn about some of the region's most beautiful wildlife with a visit to one of the world's largest butterfly gardens. You'll also see the hummingbird gallery containing more than 14 different species!
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging: Hotel Heliconia or Hotel Belmar, Monteverde
Day 5: Tortuguero National Park
A morning 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. It is an elusive bird but keep your eyes peeled and you may get lucky! This afternoon, visit a local coffee production facility to see how a potent Costa Rican coffee bean is transformed into your morning cup of joe.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging: Hotel Heliconia or Hotel Belmar, Monteverde
Day 6: Monteverde - Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)
Montecatini Terme
Fun in the sun is in store as you travel to the spectacular Guanacaste region on the northwest Pacific coast. En route, make a special stop at a small cooperative where locals showcase their colorful handmade products. This afternoon, arrive at Playa Hermosa, 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.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Villas Sol Hotel & Beach Resort, Guanacaste
Day 7: Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)
The day is yours to simply enjoy this tropical paradise. Explore the nearby marina and beaches or simply relax by the pool and take advantage of the amenities offered by your all-inclusive resort.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
Lodging: Villas Sol Hotel & Beach Resort, Guanacaste
Day 8: Playa Hermosa - Sarchi - San Jose
Take a leisurely ride through the countryside to Sarchi. This charming town is known for its authentic handicrafts. During your visit you will have the chance to tour the local oxcart factory, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs! Continue on to San Jose where you will enjoy a wonderful farewell dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging: Herradura Hotel, San Jose
Day 9: San Jose - Tour Ends
Today you depart for home with fabulous memories of your adventure in Costa Rica.
Meals included: Breakfast
Tour Pricing
Double: Starting at $1,049 per person.
For departure dates and more information,
contact Mary Lyn Klein at 408.621.0850 or marylyn@casaq.com
By e-mail:
marylyn@casaq.com
Sightseeing Highlights
• San Jose
• Poas Volcano
• Cano Negro Refuge
• Arenal Volcano Hot Springs
• Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Guanacaste
Package Includes
9 days, 17 meals
Land rates starting at
Double: $1,049 per person