Overview:

Travel through the mountains and rainforests of Costa Rica to Tortuguero National Park's beautiful canals with its unique collection of wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, toucans and more. You will also explore Alma Ata Archaeological Park and Monteverde Cloud Forest on your once in a lifetime trip. Extend your adventure with a beach stay at this beautiful seaside resort with options to relax, snorkel, visit a National Park, and more.

Your Travel Value Includes:

• Round-trip transfers between the airport and hotels, including porterage at the airport
• Accommodations in twin-bedded rooms with private bath or shower in hotels listed or similar
• 7 breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L), including a "You're Personally Invited" lunch (PI), and 6 dinners (D); breakfast daily on beach extension
• Services of an English-speaking Tour Director throughout; local representative on beach extension
• Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
• Boat transfer to Tortuguero
• Hotel taxes, service charges and porterage
• Portfolio of travel documents

Itinerary:

DAY 1 - Depart USA / Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica *

Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The balance of the day is free to begin exploring on your own.

DAY 2 - San Jose / Tortuguero National Park

Head east through mountains and rainforests, toward the Caribbean Sea. Your boat is waiting to start your expedition along the river to unforgettable Tortuguero National Park. (B,L,D)

DAY 3 - Tortuguero National Park

Head out via waterways and land to tiny Sarapiqui. This beautiful community is situated in a valley and surrounded by rainforests. The area is relatively unknown, and home to some of Costa Rica's most diverse and dense vegetation and wildlife. Your afternoon is at leisure with plenty of time to explore the surrounding environs. (B,L,D)

DAY 4 - Tortuguero / Sarapiquí

Head out via waterways and land to tiny Sarapiqui. This beautiful community is situated in a valley and surrounded by rainforests. The area is relatively unknown, and home to some of Costa Rica's most diverse and dense vegetation and wildlife. Your afternoon is at leisure with plenty of time to explore the surrounding environs. (B,L,D)

DAY 5 - Sarapiquí / Arenal

This morning, the Alma Ata Archaeological Park reveals the country's pre- Columbian heritage. After your visit here, head towards Arenal. On the way, stop for a "You're Personally Invited" lunch in a local family home. This is a wonderful opportunity to talk with the family, plus, students from a nearby school will entertain you with a dance show. Continue to Arenal, where you can thrill to spectacular views of one of the world's most active volcanoes. Arenal has emitted regular eruptions of ash and rocks since 1968. It is truly an awesome sight to behold. Relax in the thermal mineral pools, waterfalls and hot springs of varying temperatures at Tabacon Hot Springs. Tonight, watch the mini-eruptions of Arenal while leisurely dining at the Hot Springs. (B,PI,D)

DAY 6 - Arenal / Monteverde Cloud Forest

Take your last photos of impressive Arenal this morning, as you head out toward Monteverde Cloud Forest. Upon arrival in this peaceful region, the balance of your day is at leisure to relax or begin exploring on your own. Your mountain lodge overlooks much of the Cloud Forest and the setting is spectacular. (B,D)

DAY 7 - Monteverde Cloud Forest

Take a guided walk with a park naturalist through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve this morning. Hundreds of species of animals, birds, insects and plants make their homes here. Watch for quetzals, hummingbirds, monkeys and more, and enjoy the unique flora of the forest. Also included at your leisure is the Sky Walk, a chain of six suspension bridges above the Cloud Forest. The forest canopy is home to many unique flora and fauna species, which you would not see from ground level. Definitely a memorable experience! Tonight, relish a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant. (B,D)

DAY 8 - Monteverde / Liberia / Guanacaste

Transfer to Guanacaste and check into your seaside resort hotel, located on one of the most pristine beaches in Costa Rica. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

DAY 9 - Guanacaste

A full free day to do as you please. You might want to explore the beautiful beach or try snorkeling. Other optional pursuits include a canopy tour, a float trip, horseback riding, a shopping tour, a visit to a National Park or various beach activities. (B)

DAY 10 - Guanacaste / Depart Liberia / Arrive USA

Hotels: