Costa Rica’s Nature Trail Tour

Costa Rica’s Nature Trail Itinerary

Day 1 – San Jose
On arrival in San Jose you are transferred to your hotel.
Hotel: Gran Hotel Costa Rica (RO)

Day 2 – San Jose /Tortuguero
Begin your day with an early start travelling by road through the Braulio Carrillo Rainforest National Park to the Caribbean plains enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery and quaint villages en route. We will continue our journey through the jungle by boat and cruise the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park. After check-in and lunch at your eco-lodge, board the boat once again for a visit to the Tortuguero Village where you will get to walk around the town and experience the way of life of the locals. Enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel
Hotel: Pachira Lodge (or similar) (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Tortuguero National Park
Today you will have some free time to also experience the Tortuguero National Park, where you will be able to observe many protected species of birds, monkeys, crocodiles and sloths.
Hotel: Pachira Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Tortuguero National Park / Sarapiqui
This morning you will board the boat to return to Caño Blanco, where a bus will be waiting to continue your adventure to the fascinating Sarapiqui region. Sarapiqui features primary forest, swamps and Banana plantations in a biologically rich area with a temperature ranging between 26 and 28C. Upon arrival to the hotel you will check in and in the afternoon you will be escorted on a guided hike through the forest in search of the diverse wildlife and vegetation.
Hotel: Selva Verde Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 5 – Sarapiqui / Arenal
Today you have the morning to relax. Later, enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside of San Carlos Valley to La Fortuna in Arenal.
Hotel: Los Lagos (B,L,D)

Day 6 – Arenal
After an early breakfast we head off for a tour of Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge. Driving for about an hour and a half until Los Chiles, where you will board a boat and float down Rio Frio on a magical safari through the tropical rainforest, spotting exotic birds, monkeys and reptiles. Your afternoon is at leisure.
Hotel: Los Lagos (B,L,D)

Day 7 – Arenal
This morning you have the opportunity to hike to La Fortuna Waterfalls. From the trailhead you will hike approximately 15 minutes before reaching this majestic waterfall where you can swim or just enjoy the beauty of the idyllic spot. In the evening you will visit the Eco Termales hot springs to relax in the thermal waters.
Hotel: Los Lagos (B,L,D)

Day 8 – Arenal / Rincon de La Vieja
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the National Park Rincon de La Vieja. In the afternoon get ready for the Rio Negro Tubing Adventure, (duration 3 hours) starting out with a horseback ride and then a short hike down to the river where you will hop into your own individual tub for your downstream river adventure. Return to the hotel by bus. (For the less adventurous you may substitute the tubing tour for something a little less daring such as a visit to the National Park, mud baths and thermal waters or horseback riding to one of the beautiful waterfalls. Please advise us at time of booking.
Hotel: Hacienda Guachipelin (B,L,D)

Day 9 – Rincon de La Vieja / Liberia
You have a early morning start heading back to Liberia International Airport for your flight back to the UK

Inclusions

• ■ Accommodation as detailed in twin or double bed with private facilities (alternative but similar hotels may be used at certain times of year)
• ■ Meals included as stated: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L) and Dinner (D). No meals (RO)
• ■ Air-conditioned transportation
• ■ Services of a qualified English speaking local driver/guide.
• ■ Airport transfers
• ■ Park entrance fees and government taxes

What's Not Included:

• ■ Optional excursions
• ■ Tips for the guide or driver

Please be aware:
2009 itineraries may vary slightly to the 2010 itinerary shown. Please contact reservations for more information.

Please note:
Groups of seven or less will have local guides during the day touring only, for groups of eight or more a guide will accompany the group throughout. Prices can increase or decrease, you will be quoted the up to date price at the time of booking.

Papagayo:
Why not extend your stay in Costa Rica’s stunning resort of Papagayo. Only 1 hour from Liberia Airport, it is a perfect place to extend your tour and relax. Please call for more details.