COSTA RICA NATURE LOVERS
OVERVIEW
Nature lovers rejoice! A perfect introduction to Costa Rica’s natural wonders, focused on the varied and vibrant flora and fauna, and two crown jewels on our paradise: Arenal and Tortuguero National Park.
Day 1 : San José
Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport.
You will be met at the airport in order to transfer you to the Hotel.
Overnight at Hotel Palma Real.
Day 2 : San José / Tortuguero National Park
We begin our trip early in the morning between 6:00 am from San Jose. You will be traveling with a bilingual naturalist guide on an air conditioned bus. Drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park, where you have the opportunity to see beautiful views and abundant vegetation.
On the way we will stop for breakfast at Selva Tropical Restaurant where you can enjoy a butterfly garden with a variety of tropical flowers. After breakfast we will continue our trip to Caño Blanco deck driving by banana plantations. At Caño Blanco, you will board the covered boat to the lodge, passing the Tortuguero canals arriving between 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
In the afternoon you will visit to the Turtle Museum of the C.C.C. (Caribbean Conservation Corporation) and to the colorful Tortuguero town. You will return to the lodge around 5:30 p.m. Free time to enjoy the pool, the bar service and prepare for your dinner. Dinner service from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and then rest of the night free to enjoy the surroundings, pool and bar.
Overnight at Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 : Tortuguero National Park
6:15 am tour to admire the awakening of the wildlife of Tortuguero. Return for breakfast (service between 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.). Free time to enjoy the pool, the bar service and prepare for your dinner. Dinner service from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and then rest of the night free to enjoy the surroundings, pool and bar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 : Tortuguero National Park / Arenal Volcano
Continue to the northern lowlands of Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna town. Relax in the best hot springs of the área. Overnight at Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 : Arenal Volcano
AM: The Arenal Hanging Bridges at Mistico Park is a beautiful, environmentally-friendly nature project located near the Arenal Volcano for walking tours. This is considered one of the best nature walks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. There are trails and bridges that bring you as close as you could ever hope to get to the birds, flowers, and the lush vegetation of this primary rainforest. This is the perfect tour for nature enthusiasts visiting Costa Rica! The trails are designed for all ability levels and cover a total of about 2 miles. Once you are on walking along, you will be able to admire the great diversity of flora and fauna typically found in the tropical rain forest and also have the opportunity to see many different birds and plant species for approx 2.5 hrs. Walk right into the forest along several stretches of hanging bridges overlooking the tree canopy along easy, safe and beautiful trails with views of the Arenal Volcano. Appreciate the wildlife as you cross the 15 different bridges, 6 of them are the ones hanging.
PM: The Arenal Volcano 1968 Park and other reserves along the border of the National Park are one of the most visited places in all of Central America. The trails in Arenal Volcano1968 Park and other nearby Arenal Reserves are generally not very strenuous -- perfect for a leisurely and informative hike with one of our professional nature guides. This part of the Arenal Volcano had sections that were devastated by the lava flow of 1968, so some areas have very little vegetation. This guided walk of the1968 Trail provides perfect photo opportunities and magnificent views of the impressive Arenal Volcano, the pristine Lake Arenal and the extinct volcano Cerro Chato. We have chosen the appropriate trail for better wildlife viewing. There are parts of each trail that has forested areas where your nature guide will try to spot birds, monkeys and other animals in their natural habitat.
Overnight at Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 : San José
Transfer to Juan Santamaria International Airport.
Meals: Breakfast
End of the Tour
Our services include :
- Transportation
- Entrance fees
- Guided Tours as per the itinerary (English Speaking Guide)
- Lodging and local taxes
- Meals accord to itinerary: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)
Our services do not include :
- International Airfare
- Optional Activities
- Tortuguero National Park Entrance Fee ($17 per person)
- Arrival and Departure Taxes
- Extras in hotels (laundry, phone calls, room service, etc.)
|
Hotels |
Day 1 |
Palma Real |
Day 2 |
Pachira Lodge Tortuguero |
Day 3 |
Pachira Lodge Tortuguero |
Day 4 |
Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa |
Day 5 |
Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa |
Costa Rica is a stunningly diverse country in Central America, known for its incredible biodiversity, beautiful landscapes, and commitment to environmental sustainability. From lush rainforests and pristine beaches to active volcanoes and vibrant cities, Costa Rica offers something for every traveler.
Getting There :
By Air: The main international airports are Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.
By Land: Buses and car rentals are available for those traveling from neighboring countries such as Nicaragua and Panama.
Accommodation :
Luxury: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, Nayara Springs
Mid-Range: Hotel Grano de Oro, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Budget: Hostel Pangea, Arenal Backpackers Resort
Top Attractions :
San José: The capital city, home to the National Theatre, Gold Museum, and bustling markets.
Arenal Volcano: A perfect cone-shaped volcano offering hiking, hot springs, and adventure activities.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Famous for its misty forests, diverse wildlife, and canopy tours.
Manuel Antonio National Park: Combines rainforests with beautiful beaches and is known for its diverse wildlife.
Tortuguero National Park: Known for its turtle nesting sites and network of canals perfect for boat tours.
Corcovado National Park: One of the most biodiverse places on Earth, ideal for wildlife watching.
Guanacaste: Known for its stunning beaches, great surfing spots, and luxury resorts.
Tamarindo: A vibrant beach town popular for surfing, nightlife, and eco-tourism activities.
La Fortuna: The gateway to Arenal Volcano, with hot springs, waterfalls, and adventure sports.
Activities :
Hiking and Trekking: Numerous trails in national parks and reserves.
Wildlife Watching: Spotting monkeys, sloths, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Surfing: Tamarindo, Jaco, and Nosara are popular surfing spots.
Snorkeling and Diving: Explore coral reefs and marine life along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
Zip-Lining: Experience the thrill of flying over the rainforest canopy.
Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs near Arenal Volcano.
White-Water Rafting: Adventure on the Pacuare and Sarapiquí rivers.
Dining :
Local Cuisine: Try traditional dishes like gallo pinto, casado, and ceviche at local sodas (small eateries).
Fine Dining: Restaurants like La Esquina de Buenos Aires in San José and Kapi Kapi in Manuel Antonio offer upscale dining experiences.
Street Food: Sample empanadas, churros, and tropical fruits from street vendors.
Nightlife :
San José: Explore the vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and live music venues like El Steinvorth and Antik.
Tamarindo: Known for its beach parties and lively nightlife scene.
Puerto Viejo: Reggae bars and beachfront parties are popular in this Caribbean town.
Shopping :
Artisan Markets: Buy local crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs at markets in San José, Monteverde, and other tourist areas.
Boutiques: Explore unique shops offering clothing, art, and home décor in cities like San José and beach towns.
Practical Information :
Language: Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season) for sunny weather; May to November (rainy season) for fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
Local Transport: Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel. Renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for exploring remote areas.
Tips :
Weather: Bring layers and rain gear as weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous and coastal regions.
Safety: Costa Rica is generally safe, but it's advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid isolated areas at night.
Health: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is available. Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
Costa Rica’s combination of natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and friendly locals makes it a top destination for travelers seeking a memorable and diverse
vacation experience. Whether you're hiking through rainforests, relaxing on tropical beaches, or exploring vibrant cities, Costa Rica offers endless possibilities for exploration and relaxation.
Nature lovers rejoice! A perfect introduction to Costa Rica’s natural wonders, focused on the varied and vibrant flora and fauna, and two crown jewels on our paradise: Arenal and Tortuguero National Park.