Day 3
After breakfast we set off for a fascinating walk along one of the nature trails around our lodge. means ‘turtle catcher’ and the many species of turtles which lay their eggs on these beaches came close to extinction until the area was declared a national park. You can also expect to see caimans, several types of monkeys and a huge number of endemic and migratory bird species, including toucans, macaws and raptors. After some time to relax by the pool during the hottest part of the day, in the afternoon we continue our exploration by boat, along the lush green waterways of this unique eco-system. (B, L, D)
Day 4
This morning we set off westwards through the centre of the country towards Arenal, famous for the perfect symmetrical cone of the Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica’s youngest volcano. After a stop for lunch we arrive in Arenal in the afternoon. (B, L, D)
Day 5
Today we head north, close to the Nicaraguan border, to the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Here we embark on a boat to quietly float along the Frio River – your local guide will point out what’s considered to be some of the most abundant bird life in Costa Rica. More than 300 bird species have been identified here, including kingfishers, ibis, toucans, storks and even a type of vulture, plus you’re likely to see iguanas, caimans and numerous monkey species can also be spotted along the river banks. (B, L)
Day 6
A day to take it easy at your hotel – after a sumptuous breakfast, settle down around the pool with its swim-up bar and wonderful views of the volcano. Just an easy walk around the grounds is sure to offer plenty of chances to spot some local wildlife. Tonight, why not enjoy an optional evening cooking class with dinner included. (B)
Day 7
In the morning, embark on a walking tour in the foothills of Arena Volcano, enjoying more close-up scenic views of the volcano. We turn south today to drive towards the Monteverde Cloud Forest where we stay for two nights. Tonight, dinner is included. (B, D)
Day 8
This stunning Cloud Forest boasts an extraordinarily diverse ecosystem, being home to 120 species of reptiles and amphibians, 130 species of mammals and an astounding 500 species of birds, not to mention more than 3,000 species of plants. Possibly the best way to enjoy all this is from above: the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges are a system of walkways that offer a unique view into the jungle from up to 180 feet above the forest floor. If you’re feeling really adventurous (and at extra charge), this is where you can also enjoy what is considered to be the country’s best ‘zip-line’ experience. This afternoon enjoy lunch and a tour of a traditional Costa Rican coffee farm where you’ll see how one of Costa Rica’s top exports is grown in this tropical region and its importance in the development of the country as a whole. Your evening is free to try out one of the many excellent local restaurants, cafés and bars. (B, L)
Day 9
This morning we drive towards the shores of the striking Pacific coast to the region of Guanacaste, one of the most beautiful places in the country, with an exotic combination of exquisite beaches and an exuberant tropical forest. On the way, we stop at the bustling town of Liberia, for some free time to have a stroll and maybe sample some of the local cuisine. Our luxurious, five-star hotel for three nights is close to the charming seaside resort of Tamarindo, where it’s not unusual to see iguanas and white-faced monkeys on the beach! This evening we’ll take you into Tamarindo where there’s plenty of great food, music and friendly bars to choose from. (B)
Day 10
Costa Rica’s real riches come from its immensely fertile volcanic soils which have created a biodiversity of incredible range, variety and complexity – a veritable natural paradise! In fact, more than 25% of the country is designated as protected reserves or national parks. Today, we take a guided tour to Palo Verde National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most popular conservation areas. Its wide range of land and marine biodiversity make this one of Central America’s most impressive natural habitats. Your local guide will lead you by boat through the waterways of this tropical paradise to discover a unique combination of thick coastal forest, rivers and mangrove lagoons which are home to more than 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. One of its most well-known and likeable inhabitants is the three-toed sloth, but this is not even close to the tip of the iceberg. You’ll also observe several species of monkeys, green iguanas, hundreds of varieties of brightly coloured tree frogs, hummingbirds a-plenty, scarlet macaws, blue-winged teal – the list just goes on and on! (B, L)
Day 11
Enjoy all the pleasures of your final day in your luxury hotel. You can take it easy on the beach or beside the hotel pool, with a piña colada or daiquiri in hand, play a round of golf, try out the spa or perhaps join the optional sunset cruise along the coast with picturesque views and time for snorkelling. We say farewell to this incredible country with an included dinner in Tamarindo. (B, D)
Day 12
Travel back to San José airport for your overnight direct flight home. (B)
Day 13
We arrive home this morning.