Classic Costa Rica

Arrive in San Jose and transfer to your hotel. Rest, relax and get ready for your adventure in eco-rich Costa Rica, often called "Pura Vida" - the country with a relaxing and happy lifestyle

Depart San Jose this morning traveling east to the shores of the Caribbean coast. See the lush vegetation along with acres of banana plantations. At a nearby port, board a motor launch that takes you to the canals in the heart of the Costa Rican jungle. Arrive at the lodge in Tortuguero in time for lunch. After lunch, drive to the village for a walking tour. Here, you learn about the significant conservation efforts developed to protect sea turtles that come to nest here each year. Tonight, meet with your Tour Manager before dinner at the lodge. (B,L,D)

Awaken this morning to the sounds of the jungle. Acquaint yourself with the many tree and insect species of Costa Rica on an easy guided hike through trails in the nearby rainforest. After lunch, a boat takes you through remote unspoiled sections of the park's waterways on the winding canals where you're likely to see turtles, caimans, monkeys, and many colorful tropical birds. Dinner together is at the lodge. (B,L,D)

Travel by motor launch and motor coach this morning back to San Jose. Along the way, stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Take the afternoon to independently explore the city. (B,L)

Morning departure for Arenal, enjoying the views of coffee and sugarcane plantations along the way. En route stop in Sarchi, an artisan town, where traditional colorful oxcarts and souvenirs can be found. Later this evening, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager and fellow travelers, followed by dinner. (B,D)

Spend the day on a boat tour down the Rio Frio, and learn about the flora and fauna endemic to the area. Tonight, enjoy an optional evening at the renowned Eco Termales Hot Springs that includes dinner. (B,L)

In the morning, embark on a brisk two mile hike on a paved trail in Arenal National Park to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area. At the end of the trail, admire panoramic views of the volcano from a lookout tower before continuing to Monteverde. Tonight, go behind-the-scenes on the optional Brewery Tour to discover the hidden world of Monteverde's craft beer, followed by dinner in the brewpub. (B)

Spend the morning at leisure, or choose to participate in one of the optional tours* including the Selvatura Canopy and Hanging Bridges adventures. This afternoon enjoy lunch and a tour of a traditional Costa Rican coffee farm. Learn about how one of Costa Rica's top exports is grown in this tropical region and its importance in the socioeconomic development of the country. This evening, savor dinner in Monteverde. (B,L,D)

Travel back to San Jose today stopping in Maravillas de Costa Rica to shop for local crafts and souvenirs. Take a panoramic city tour of San Jose, including visits to the Gold Museum* and the National Theater, before dinner. (B,D)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)