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Costa Rican Adventure

Costa Rica

Starting From

$1,299/person

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Book this tour through our partner: World Expeditions

Explore the remarkable wildlife, pristine scenery, volcanoes, coast and cloud forest of Costa Rica

Itinerary

Join trip in San Jose

You will be met on arrival at San Jose’s international airport and taken to your hotel.

Pacuare River rafting

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS…with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the “put in” on the Pacuare River for our two-day whitewater rafting adventure. We will run a total of 10 kilometers of Class II-III rapids today exploring the magnificent river valley. By afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, El Nido de Tigre (or similar) which nestles between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river. This area of rainforest is maintained as much as possible in its natural state. From the center of the camp, trails radiate out to secreted areas of rainforest, take time to explore the lush environment first hand looking out for toucans overhead or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the river.

Pacuare River afternoon transfer to Arenal area

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We will run a total of 25 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids. We maneuver through the exhilarating rapids and point out the intricacies of the rainforest at the river’s edge. Along the way we take time out to do some hiking to spectacular waterfalls and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” near the town of Siquirres we drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to the Arenal Volcano. There is a wide choice of restaurants to choose from in La Fortuna for dinner.

Half day hike in Arenal Volcano area and hot springs

In the morning we enjoy a picturesque walk through the tropical rainforest. We will be around 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges, one of the highlights in this area. Here we'll have wonderful panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall which falls 120ft to a large natural swimming pool. The descent is steep and we take the stair set down to the waterfall as we become immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. The falls spill over into smaller gentler pour overs and swim areas which are our natural playground before we begin our ascent. The afternoon may be spent exploring the town of La Fortuna or relaxing in your hotel. Thanks to the Arenal Volcano’s geothermal activity, there is a number of natural hot springs throughout the area. They are designed to be very much in tune with their natural environment and offer a fantastic way to relax in the warm and soothing mineral waters while enjoying spectacular scenery in close proximity, that’s why you will be transfer tonight at one of these amazing thermal waters where the entrance and a delicious dinner will be also included.

Option B - Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverede is one of the world's most famous cloud forests. It takes about four hours to get to Monteverde, either by car/boat/horse or car/boat/car. Please let your reservations consultant know which option you prefer.Horseback riding (approx 2 hours) between the Arenal volcano and Monteverde offers the best views of the volcano and lush mountains. You will first take a car from the hotel to Arenal Lake, then a motorboat to cross the lake and a horse will be waiting for you on the other side for a 2 hour ride. Helmets for the horseback ride will be provided if you choose this option.Alternatively, you will be transferred by car to Arenal Lake, then take a 30 minute boat ride across the picturesque Lake Arenal to the town of Río Chiquito on the south side of the lake from where you will be transported by car to your hotel in Monteverde. Breakfast is included before you depart. You can choose your own spot for lunch and dinner in Monteverde.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

There are a variety of optional activities in Monteverde: guided or solo hike through Monteverde or Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, Canopy Tour, a walk around the galleries and coffee houses of Santa Elena, Don Juan Coffee Tour, horseback riding, etc. Most activities can be booked by your hotel or you can pre-book them through World Expeditions.

Monteverde, transfer back to San Jose

There is time this morning to continue to enjoy the Cloud Forest before your pick up for the return journey to San Jose. The evening is free to enjoy the nightlife and restaurants of San Jose.

Trip concludes in San Jose

This morning you will be transferred to San Jose airport after breakfast where the trip concludes.

Additional Information

This flexible itinerary is ideal for travellers looking for a bit of an adventure, mixed with time to take in the sights and relax on the palm fringed beaches. We start of journey in San Jose before heading to the Pacuare River for two days of gentle whitewater rafting through this superb natural rainforest region. We then continue to Arenal Volcano where we enjoy a hike exploring the rich flora and fauna of this tropical rainforest. We will also incorporate some time to rejuvenate in the many natural hot springs. Finally you can choose between the Monteverde Cloud Forest or exploring the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park and it’s excellent Pacific Coast Beaches. Both areas offer a selection of optional activities which allow you to do as much or as little as you like.

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Starting From

$1,299/person

Book Now

Details

Duration

8 Days

Starts

Costa Rica

Group Size

2-16

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