What makes Costa Rica special?
The oldest democracy in Latin America, a.k.a. “The Switzerland of Central America,” Costa Rica straddles the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. With climates ranging from tropical to temperate to even alpine in the mountain regions, Costa Rica is a paradise for those who love eco-tourism, as its natural diversity has resulted in a realm of fertile valleys, lush jungles, rain and cloud forests, 116 volcanoes, great beaches and coral reefs, and mountain ranges. The nation has the largest percentage of protected national parks and wildlife reserves in the world and is inhabited by 383 species of amphibians, 848 kinds of birds, 205 species of mammals, 400 species of butterflies, 1,500 species of fish, and 13,000 types of plants. |
Day 1: LOS ANGELES/SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA.
Fly nonstop from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Jose, Costa Rica. Your trip to Costa Rica opens in the colorful capital city of San Jose. Relax before your adventure begins! Doubletree by Hilton San Jose
The majestic Arenal Volcano
Day 2: SAN JOSE/COFFEE PLANTATION/ARENAL.
Begin with a Central Valley tour of a local coffee plantation highlighting the history and cultivation of the 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. Arenal Springs Resort (B,D)
Costa Rican Squirrel monkey
Day 3: ARENAL/CANO NEGRO/ARENAL.
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 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 and relax during an optional spa visit. (B)
Keel Billed Toucan
Day 4: ARENAL.
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: LAKE ARENAL CRUISE/MONTEVERDE.
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. El Establo Hotel, Monteverde Cloud Forest (B,D)
Unbelivable hummingbirds
Day 6: MONTEVERDE.
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 brides and the zip line tour, you may purchase the second as an optional tour. (B,D)
A.C.T. clients preparing to zip-line through the jungle!
Day 7: GUANACASTE.
Drive to Guanacaste, known for its sandy beaches and resorts. Nammbu Beach Bungalows (B,D)
Costa Rica's famous Red-Eyed Tree Frog
Day 8: GUANACASTE.
Fun in the sun is in store today as you explore the nearby beaches or simply relax by the pool at your resort. This afternoon, visit the delightful beach town of Samara, one of the top sunset spots in Costa Rica. (B,D)
Day 9: GUANACASTE~LOS ANGELES. .
Your memorable trip ends this morning when you transfer to the airport for your flight back to Los Angeles, arriving the same day. (B)
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