Day 1 – Friday, March 28 San Jose, Costa Rica – Tour Begins
Lush forests and stunning waterfalls… exotic wildlife and endless coastlines… Costa Rica is truly a slice of paradise. Your tour begins in the colorful capital city of San Jose. Upon arrival, relax and soak up the sights of your new surroundings. This evening we’ll enjoy a Group Welcome and Orientation, followed by an Amazing Journeys Shabbat service and Group Dinner. (D)
Day 2 – Saturday, March 29 Tortuguero National Park
Enjoy an exciting soft-adventure to Tortuguero, the Amazon of Costa Rica. Explore the region’s wildlife by boat, viewing macaws, sloths, monkeys, falcons and other native species. Enjoy a memorable two-night stay at our eco-lodge surrounded by the beauty of a tropical forest and amazing wildlife. Learn more about your surroundings with a visit to the world’s first Green Turtle Research Station and discover how to protect the turtle’s nesting habitat and eggs. Our accommodations here add to the true experience of the rainforest. Modern conveniences give way to nature’s purest wonders. (B, L, D)
Day 3 – Sunday, March 30 Tortuguero National Park
An early morning bird watching excursion is offered so you may learn about the variety of local species and migratory birds that flock to this area. Later, experience a spectacular kayak journey through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats and caimans, as well as exotic flora. Tortuguero National Park is a study in rainforest, freshwater, and marine biology. It protects over 350 species of birds and mammals including green macaws; 57 species of amphibians; 111 species of reptiles; and 60 mammal species, including 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered species including jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters and manatees. (B, L, D)
Day 4 – Monday, March 31 Tortuguero National Park – Sarapiqui – Arenal
Embark on a leisurely boat ride to the mainland as you travel to the fascinating Sarapiqui region. See firsthand the process of producing chocolate from the cacao bean. Learn the history and continuing importance of cacao to Central America’s economy. Later, in Arenal, behold the spectacular views of Arenal Volcano. Your evening is free to explore the many restaurants this lovely town has to offer. (B, L)
Day 5 – Tuesday, April 1 Arenal
Today it’s your choice! Choose between two amazing activities. The first, is Waterfall Canyoning. We’ll be transported to a remote waterfall canyon where we rappel down 5 routes into the water below. Rappels range from 20-50 meters — this activity is sure to get your blood flowing! For a more tranquil day, enjoy the spectacular Tabacon Hot Springs for complete relaxation of the body, mind and spirit. With natural hot springs ranging from 77 degrees to 122 degrees, you are sure to find the perfect temperature. Tonight before dinner, enjoy a cooking demonstration and learn how native, exotic vegetables and plants contribute to the unique flavors of Costa Rican cuisine. (B, D)
Day 6 – Wednesday, April 2 Arenal
Put on your hiking shoes, it’s time to explore Arenal Volcano. Active since 1968, the volcano is constantly expelling gases and water, and sometimes erupts. A hike at the volcano will highlight some areas of activity and gain insight to the wildlife and tropical forest that surrounds the mighty volcano. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 7 – Thursday, April 3 Arenal – Lake Arenal Cruise – Monteverde
Begin the day with a delightful cruise on Lake Arenal, the largest and most important lake in Costa Rica. Later in the day, we’ll travel into the Monteverde Cloud Forest, where trees grow to heights of 100 feet! In this spectacular ecosystem, you will encounter many incredible species of flora and fauna. Upon arrival in Monteverde, a nature walk allows you to discover the natural beauty of the cloud forest first hand. This forest is the home of the world’s largest population of the endangered quetzal, celebrated for its gorgeous jewel-toned plumage. Keep your eyes peeled and you may be lucky enough to spot this elusive bird! (B)
Day 8 – Friday, April 4 Monteverde
Begin your day at Selvatura Park, a cloud forest reserve in the heart of Monteverde. Venture into a different world, exploring one of the world’s largest butterfly gardens with more than 30 species of tropical butterflies. Next, in a nearby gallery containing more than 100 beautiful hummingbirds, you will be dazzled by the 14 different species. Enjoy a guided, leisurely-paced “Hanging Bridges” walking tour and learn about the cloud forest’s unique ecosystem, its mammals, birds, plants and flora. Later, be thrilled as you fly through the air by Zip-Line! Feel pure adrenaline and excitement of flying up to 35 miles per hour, viewing magnificent landscapes. Zip lines ranging from 120 to more than 2,000 feet in length and 60 to 400 feet in height let you experience the cloud forest from a whole new perspective. Tonight, we enjoy an Amazing Journeys Shabbat, followed by a group dinner. (B, D)
Day 9 – Saturday, April 5 Monteverde – Sarchí – San Jose
Today we leave Monteverde and travel to Sarchí, an important crafts center. Learn about the traditional crafts of this region and witness local artisans as they produce colorful oxcarts. This evening, join together for a wonderful farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 10 – Sunday, April 6 San Jose – Tour Ends
Today you depart for home with fabulous memories of your adventure in Costa Rica. (B)
Our Hotels
March 28: San Jose – Wyndham Herradura
March 29 – 30: Tortuguero – Evergreen Lodge
March 31 – April 2: Arenal – Royal Corin
April 3 – 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest – Hotel El Establo
April 5: San Jose – Wyndham Herradura
Please note:
– Hotels are subject to change
– Evergreen Lodge is “rustic” and does not have air conditioning, elevators, phones or television; however it was selected due to the amount of wildlife present. It offers clean, comfortable accommodations appropriate for it’s natural environment.
All rooms are non-smoking where we match roommates. Items listed on this website are subject to change at any time. By providing payment you agree to the terms and conditions as outlined on this website.
Cancellation Policy: From the time of initial deposit until December 23, 2013, there is a $75.00 penalty for cancellation. From December 24, 2013 – January 23, 2014, the cancellation penalty is $350. From January 24 – March 7, 2014, the cancellation penalty is 40% of the total package price. From March 8, 2014 until the day of travel, the cancellation penalty is 100% of the total package price. Cancellations made on the day of departure and “no-shows” will receive no refund. There is no refund in the event of interruption or cancellation after the start of the journey.
Cancellation Insurance: Cancellation insurance is highly recommended. Information will be sent with tour confirmation.
Taxes and Gratuities: Gratuities have been included in the cost of the tour package. These include baggage handling (one bag per person), wait staff, local guides, drivers and our Tour Manager. Taxes are subject to increases as local governments require. Amazing Journeys reserves the right to change tour pricing accordingly. A Departure Tax of approximately $32.00 must be paid by each traveler at the San Jose Airport upon departure from Costa Rica.
Passport Requirements: A valid US, Canadian or UK passport is required for this itinerary. Passports must be valid for six months beyond the last day of the trip. Non-US, UK or Canadian citizens will need to contact the Costa Rican Embassy for visa requirements.
This tour is operated by Collette Vacations
