Lush forests and stunning waterfalls…rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines…Costa Rica is a paradise teeming with exotic plants and incredible animals. Luxuriate at a resort for two nights at Playa Carrillo, Guanacaste, known for its breathtaking beauty and fine sandy beaches. Spend two nights in Monteverde’s lush cloud forest. Experience the forest canopy on your choice of a hanging bridges nature walk or an exhilarating zip lining tour. Explore part of the 20,000 acre nature preserve of Cano Negro on a riverboat adventure. Enjoy the tranquil views of the Arenal Volcano from your hotel. Explore San Jose’s Plaza de Cultura and view the magnificent National Theatre. You will find a slice of paradise and so much more.
DAY 1 Your trip to Costa Rica opens in the colourful capital city of San Jose, the perfect place to relax and soak up the sights as your adventure begins.
DAY 2 Welcome to the Central Valley. Begin with a tour of a local coffee plantation highlighting the history and cultivation of this driver of the Costa Rican economy. This afternoon, check in for a leisurely 3-night stay at a lodge overlooking the majestic Arenal Volcano. Get to know the Costa Rican culture this evening. (B, D)
DAY 3 Embark on a Cano Negro guided riverboat trip in a covered canoe known as a panga. These 20,000 acres are home to the largest viewable collection of indigenous wildlife in all of Costa Rica. Go in search of caimans, river otters, sloths, monkeys, river turtles, exotic birds and rare butterflies. Later, return to Arenal for the chance to relax during an optional spa visit. (B)
DAY 4 Today, explore a family-owned farm, getting a peek into the daily lives of the locals. During a tour of the gardens, learn how the plants are organically grown through the concept of sustainability. The farm considers itself a “classroom without borders.” Taste the exotic fruit harvest and experience the traditional way to process sugar cane. Enjoy a sip of cane liquor before engaging in a culinary demonstration and a farm-to-table lunch. (B,L)
DAY 5 Enjoy a delightful cruise on Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest and most important lake. Then, it’s off to the secluded Monteverde Cloud Forest, a place you have to see to believe, where trees grow to heights of 100 feet! Set off on a nature walk through this spectacular ecosystem, where you’re sure to encounter many incredible species of flora and fauna. (B, D)
DAY 6 It’s your choice! Explore one of the world’s largest butterfly gardens. Then, join an expert for a leisurely paced “Hanging Bridges” walking tour to gain a different perspective of the cloud forest’s lush ecosystem -OR- take an exhilarating ride on one of the longest canopy zip line tours in Costa Rica. If you would like to do both the hanging bridges and the zip line tour, you may purchase the second as an option on tour. (B, D)
DAY 7 Today we make our way to breathtaking Guanacaste, known for its fine sandy beaches. Settle in for a relaxing 2-night stay at your resort and take in the mesmerizing ocean views. (B,D)
DAY 8 Fun in the sun is in store today as you explore the nearby beaches, or simply relax by the pool and take advantage of your resort’s lovely amenities. This afternoon, visit the delightful beach town of Samara, one of the top sunset spots in Costa Rica. Soak in the spectacular colours as the sun illuminates the natural landscape. (B, D)
DAY 9 Today you depart for home with fabulous memories of your Costa Rican adventure. (B)
INCLUSIONS Round Trip Air from Toronto, Air Taxes (of $150 per person – subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers, Motor Coach Transportation, 8 Nights’ Accommodation, 8 Breakfasts (B), 1 Lunch (L), 5 Dinners (D), Sightseeing as described
COST PER PERSON TWIN $3699 TRIPLE $3669 SINGLE $4699
(These prices reflect a $100/person discount if booked by July 25)
DETAILS:
A $698 per person deposit is due upon booking (fully refundable until July 25)
Final payment is due by November 23
We strongly recommend each traveler purchases the all-inclusive TRAVEL PROTECTION for $499 per person at the time of booking. This plan guarantees a full refund of all payments (including deposit) except for the plan fee itself, in case of cancellation of travel plans for any reason prior to the day of departure.