Serendipity Adventures, Inc. Serendipity Costa Rica, S.A.

Transcription

1 Page 1 of 16 Day 1: Sat. Dec. 19, FOR THE GUIDE Three Generations on Adventure in Costa Rica Serendipity Style! December 19, - January 2, 2016 DATE ACTIVITY HOTEL You are scheduled to arrive at 1 p.m. today and your Bosque de Paz Serendipity leader will meet you along with one of our rugged and spacious 4x4 vehicles, duly checked and equipped for expeditionary travel We re leaving the city immediately due north, up into the high altitudes of the central mountains. A detour at the top of the mountain pass takes us for an overnight experience at a private biological reserve that protects 1000 acres of cloud forest, a rare and endangered tropical forest found ONLY in the clouds within the mountains of Central and South America and Southeast Asia. The drive route through the countryside alone is remarkable and we ll have our first exposure to the proud people of rural Costa Rica. We can stop to pick coffee and you can try to figure out how a collectors can fill 25 baskets in a 8-hour shift (impossible, it seems..)! As we ascend the mountain range you'll notice a change in the vegetation. Trees give way to ferns, and the mosscovered branches and giant Elephant Ear plants remind you of a child's book of fairy tales. This afternoon (and tomorrow morning too!) we can do a bit of walking or light hiking inside the preserve, to learn about the cloud forest and hopefully see animals in the wild. Private, rustic cloud forest retreat, 12 rooms total, comfortably furnished, good food, utter peace, and excellent trails that lead into private preserve. Family unit: Two connected bedrooms with a total of 1 double and 3 single beds (sharing one bathroom), and one room with double + single beds and private bathroom

2 Page 2 of 16 Please note, that it might be rather cool up in the cloud forest in the evening (about 50 F and at an altitude of about 5000 feet. We ll sleep to the sounds of rare critters and the howling breeze typical of these misty evergreen forests. Day 2: Sun. Dec. 20, Day 3: Mon. Dec. 21, Dinner Included The early morning hours are the most active in the cloud forest. The hummingbirds are everywhere and will often pose for the picture right in your hand! The colorful tree frogs are heard throughout the forest but it s the echoing BONK of the Three-wattled Bellbird that s truly fascinating. If you re quiet you ll often spot a quick Guatuso cutting through the dense foliage but the Howler Monkeys are not nearly as shy. Anyone would give up all of these sightings for one opportunity to spot the elusive Quetzal, considered the handsomest of the entire American continent. A little luck is always needed, but your Serendipity leader can teach you their call and how to spot them in the wild. After lunch we ll say farewell to our gracious hosts (the lodge is operated directly by the owners and Serendipity has become guests of honor over the years) as the expedition continues down into the volcanic region of San Carlos, where the landscape is dominated by the coneshaped Arenal Volcano. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included Today, as soon as we are done with breakfast we will load the 4x4 and head further north to reach protected wetlands where we can see wildlife (monkeys GALORE) at close range! The catch? You can only get there by water. This maze of rivers, canals and seasonal marshes Tilajari Wilderness Resort Countryside hotel with comfortable rooms surrounded by nature. Amenities include a well kept semi-olympic pool, well run restaurant, gym and multiple sporting facilities (roofed tennis courts, soccer pitch, squash). Best of all is location- completely surrounded by nature, with rivers and extensive forests that attract lots of birds and curious critters. 3 Junior Suites including 2 queen beds each one Same as above

3 Page 3 of 16 are home to an unusual variety (and quantity) of wildlife and it s common to see monkeys, sloths, caiman and huge iguanas. We ll first travel in 4x4, as far at the road goes and then continue in our inflatable kayaks or duckies, as many refer to these versatile two-man boats. Serendipity uses silent electric motors to propel our kayaks (you ll love the way we rig our motors on to our boats- It looks a little like something out of Around the World in 80 Days, very... well, quaint. But it has stealth capabilities) for those that prefer not to paddle and instead concentrate on spotting animals. We can bring food, cameras and don t forget your sun block. If you prefer to paddle you can take your own kayak separately without a motor (be sure to let your guide know in advance if you prefer to paddle. CAUTION!! It s a VERY LONG 5-hour paddle). Unlike motorized touring boats our kayaks make approaching wildlife much less invasive creating excellent chances to photograph and admire animals that are usually hard to capture such as Jesus Christ lizards, Anhingas and jumping Spider Monkeys. Because we're so close to the water, and so quiet, we can fit up close to the shore, and see things even without binoculars. On our way back from the border (because the river trip ends near the border with Nicaragua), there s a special place we can (optional) detour into where you can find exotic tree frogs galore in the open, not captivated!! Interested??? And what do frogs eat? Bugs, among other interesting things... frogs are a natural antidote to mosquitoes and other irritating insects, which is one reason people are so pleasantly surprised at how bug free our country is.

4 Page 4 of 16 Day 4: Tue. Dec. 22, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included This morning our first activity is to go help feeding the animals at the Asis Rescue Center, a favorite among children and nature lovers! Asis is a noble non-profit wildlife sanctuary (and hospital) where we can have up close encounters with exotic rainforest animals that have been rescued from illegal traffickers or found injured on roads or in the wilderness. There are several of these types of rescue centers throughout Costa Rica but ASIS offers a unique option to visitors, which is to partake in feeding tasks, which is directed by resident biologists. In the afternoon we ll take our 4x4 to the backside (western flank) of the volcano to enter the Arenal National Park. A long time ago the volcano ejected lava that burned through virgin rainforest here. Since then the National Park was established to protect the remaining forests and to control the curious visitors that come to see the volcano up close. We ll walk along the trails that lead to the old lava blaze. The hike itself is relatively easy and flat and it s common to see coatis, anteaters and toucans along the way. We can climb (CAREFUL!! Sharp reef-like rock) atop the cooled lava to the highest lookout point for an up-close view of the volcano. If it s active the vantage point is a magnificent but even the panoramic view the lake, from the canopy forest level, is worth the whole endeavor. Afterwards, there is no better way to end the day than soaking in the natural hot springs. Serendipity chooses a small scale, family-operated facility focused on providing a tranquil ambiance and where capacity is never abused. Unlike the much larger spas that have the college spring break party atmosphere, here the thoughts in your mind do not have to compete with the loud music and crowds. All of this with awesome Arenal volcano towering about Same as above

5 Page 5 of 16 7,000 feet over your head. Day 5: Wed. Dec. 23, Day 6: Thur. Dec. 24, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included There are many waterfalls and cascades throughout the country, with excellent manicured trails, souvenir stores and parking lots. However, the opportunity to witness spectacular waterfalls in a more natural setting, with minimal human development, is quite special. Today we have that opportunity, but we must walk/hike a bit to reach this magical place We ll head north again in our 4x4 until reaching the lower slopes of the Tenorio Volcano, then leave the car behind and continue on foot, led by your Serendipity guide. The trail is relatively level and follows the banks of the main river upstream, into more isolated pockets of wilderness. We will be hiking along the stream's banks towards the source, and see occasional fumeroles (volcanic pressurerelease) en route. The lush vegetation, the silence, away from the tourist centers, is punctuated by the monkeys and tree frogs and noises of the wild. We'll reach the Tenideros (where the river changes color) first, then continue to jungle hot springs (don't forget your bathing suit!) and giant waterfall. All this in a remote and pristine jungle. Although the waterfall and springs are dramatically impressive, what truly mesmerizes Serendipity adventurers is the bright turquoise color of the water. Hike specs: Total distance is 4.6 miles, altitude is gentle up and down, 2100 feet to 2600 feet, no steep hills. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included. Today we re driving to the Caribbean beach area where you ll to take a break in the guided tour to relax and celebrate Christmas as a family. You ll be leaving behind Same as above Cariblue Beach and Jungle Resort, Playa

6 Page 6 of 16 Day 7: Fri. Dec. 25, Day 8: Sat. Dec. 26, your Serendipity leader (for now!!) and enjoy the paradise. The Cariblue Beach & Jungle Resort has a total of 45 rooms and a wide range of facilities and comforts (two car-parkings, two swimming pools, two jacuzzi's, the rancho-restaurant SoleLuna, the Totem Beach Bar, a swimming pool bar, the Aqua Spa, the crafts and arts shop El Coral, a surf school, a Bikes Rental, several Chillout-Openspaces and much more). The hotel has a direct access to the golden sands of Cocles beach, and the Caribbean Sea, just across the road. This evening dinner is included. The Cariblue staff will prepare a special Christmas dinner for all the hotel guests (mandatory surcharge for this dinner is included in the Serendipity package) Breakfast, Lunch and dinner included This southern Caribbean coastal area has many styles of beaches, from sheltered coves with light waves with reefs for snorkeling, to superb surfing areas with strong rip tides. Visiting the Cahuita National Park is a possibility while staying in the area (less than 30 minutes away), to enjoy its long, beautiful, white sand beach!! The food on the Caribbean coast is eclectic and generally outperforms anything even in San José. The best part of the Caribbean, though, is the truly interesting people who live here. So enjoy the social part of this area, as well as the naturalist and beach part. Breakfast Included. The Caribbean communities of Puerto Viejo, Cahuita and Punta Uva team with nature and personality. You can grab sea kayaks and paddle out to where our dolphin guru friend swears there are dolphins who will carry on Cocles The rooms and suites are a modern, pleasant expression of the surrounding primeval nature that inspired them. Family house with two bedrooms and kitchen. The first bedroom king+single, second room has two queen beds Same as above Same as above

7 Page 7 of 16 lengthy conversations with you, if you have the right karma. There s Latin dancing as only rastafarians can make your body sway and move. And great food, especially seafood, Cajun (really??) food, Italian food, but mainly fresh food. Day 9: Sun. Dec. 27, Day 10: Mon. Dec. 28, Breakfast Included The Caribbean is the best scuba in Costa Rica when the visibility is good, and terrible when the surf is up or visibility is low. But then there s also the surf so why not learn a bit of surfing? And of course a selection of beaches, some coral shallow enough to snorkel over or float on just to see what else lives there. The local people love to drop their lines into the ocean for shore fish, or paddle out a bit in a sea kayak and dive for lobster. Just the fresh sea breeze is enough to get the heart pumping. Or take a tour of the chocolate farm, to see the whole process, from rainforest seed to finished cocoa. Or maybe the girls want to get their hair braided? Breakfast Included. This morning Serendipity will arrange a private transfer to Guapiles where you will meet up with a larger group going to Tortuguero (regular group departure tour package) From the lodge s headquarters/breakfast stop where you will join, it s 45 minutes by land as far as the road goes towards the east, and then you continue on speedboat through the jungle canals that serve as the only access into this isolated water world. Same as above Laguna Lodge Eco-lodge just outside Tortuguero National Park. The best choice for those interested in turtle-nesting as it is situated on the beach side of the lagoon, so no boat ride necessary to access the beach at night. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included (meals from 3 Rooms breakfast and on are managed and produced by standard Laguna Lodge tour service. *Alcoholic beverages and sodas not included. **Entrance fee to National Park is not included, must be paid at the spot) Day 11: Early morning, prior to breakfast, is the best time of the Same as above

8 Page 8 of 16 Tue. Dec. 29, day to explore the waterways with hopes to spot some of the rare species known to inhabit these coastal jungles. These include the endangered manatee, two-toed sloths and raucous green macaw. You ll be accompanied by expert local wildlife spotters that know where animals roam and where nests are located. The latter part of the day is somewhat flexible. A a lightduty hike worth considering is climbing to the top of Cerro Tortuguero. Speak to the guides to set up a *canoe or *sea kayak rental for afternoon private exploration of canal this is the way we have seen manatees in the past. The area has always struggled to protect it s rich forests and turtle-nesting beaches from poachers, loggers, banana companies and other developers. A walk up to the look-out at the top of the cerro gives you a visual perspective of the area s past, present and possible future The green turtle population is believed to have come perilously close to extinction in the 1960s when nearly every female turtle arriving to nest in Tortuguero was taken for the export market for turtle soup. CCC was established in 1959 specifically to study and protect Caribbean green turtles. Working closely with the Costa Rican government, CCC helped establish Tortuguero National Park in 1970, a move that offered protection to the turtles and strictly limited the number of turtles that could be taken. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.

9 Page 9 of 16 Day 12: Wed. Dec. 30, Day 13: Thur. Dec. 31, You are departing Tortuguero through the canals this morning, and a Serendipity guide will be waiting at the lunch restaurant to take you to the next area, which is the white water area of Turrialba. On our way to the river we ll stop to visit our friend Minor, who owns/operates his own private serpentarium, with exotic species he s captured all over Costa Rica. Minor has made it his passion to educate Costa Rica on the value of... well, snakes and lizards and frogs. It may sound squeamish, but by the time Minor has infected you with his admiration for these animals, and shown you about their behavior, you will have a real appreciation for bio-diversity, preservation, and ecological education. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included. We ll head out for a fun-filled whitewater rafting adventure down the The Pejibaye (brazilian peach-palm), a clear jewel of a river that originates in the nearby protected rainforests. Our Serendipity leaders will load the 4x4 s with kayaks, rafts, paddles and snorkeling gear (snorkeling!!??) and the BBQ for an exciting day on the river. The adventure starts high up in the Tapanti Rainforest Reserve. As we approach the put-in the villages become smaller and smaller and the imposing rainforest vegetation takes over, actually forming an entire canopy over the river! It is here, in this exuberant tropical setting, where we start our river adventure.. Unlike the more conventional rafting tour Serendipity guests enjoy the full range of boats and toys to play on the water! It is total adrenaline in an inflatable kayak yet in a guided raft it s stable enough for the younger ones (or those that prefer a gentler, more secure ride). We have Guayabo Lodge Mountain lodge perched on slopes of the active Turrialba Volcano, along the scenic route that connects San Jose city with Turrialba valley (whitewater area). Surrounded by coffee fields and diary farms, the location is perfect to experience genuine rural Costa Rican culture. 3 Mountain Suites two with one queen bed and one with two full beds. Same as above

10 Page 10 of 16 river boards too (boogie boards for river use) and the dare devils in the group sometimes try our advanced hard deck kayaks. Most of the time we run the same river section twice -- so the first time you can be conservative, and the second time fearless guide the boat or go solo in the kayak. As with all of our activities this event is privately operated and the idea is we enjoy the river at our own pace, taking time to swim in the deeper parts, perhaps stop for a great rock jump or simply relax and float lazily. If fishing appeals to some be sure to let us know we can bring our poles and tackle box. The Pejibaye attracts many locals so it s perfect to make new friends. Having some chocolates or candy from the back home is great ice breaker, then you can ask the fishermen to show off their catch of the day or invite the curious kids to come play in our boats (boy do they love that!) and make friends. The day is flexible with regards to who rafts, who kayaks, if we go twice and if some stay behind and read a book at the side of the river (we can bring nice lounge chairs) while others have at it again. No structured tour, no timelines, no stress a genuine rafting adventure in true Serendipity style Tonight is New Years Eve and we might celebrate with some Costa Ricans who gather their extended family to celebrate Tico Style! Day 14: Fri. Jan. 1, 2016 Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included. It s a new year!! The first morning of the new year we ll take it easy. Time to have a big breakfast or brunch (depend on the wake up Same as above

11 Page 11 of 16 time). When everyone is awake and ready for more adventure we can head to the Guayabo National Monument, which is the only archeological monument in Costa Rica. It is a short and refreshing walk in the rainforest that will take us passed multiple ruins of constructions built by the indigenous that use to occupy this area about 3000 years ago. Afterwards, we can arrange a soccer game with the kids from San Antonio where Serendipity s HQ are, so the girls can meet and interact with the girls from this little village. Day 15 Sat Jan Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included It s roughly 2 hours from Turrialba to the San Jose (SJO) International Airport, under normal traffic conditions. Your host guide will take you to the Airport in time for check in. Departure is always a two-edged sword, wanting to get back to family and friends, to the life to which you are accustomed. Today you ll be leaving behind the splendid tropics, and your Serendipity leader, now also a good friend, who knows more about your fears and courage than perhaps even your best friend back home. You get to take a few bruises, some extraordinary memories, certainly a new understanding of Costa Rica and the Third World, and perhaps a new skill or two, with you. You have to leave behind the delicious fresh fruit, the gallo pinto and the rainforest animals, but maybe you can join us again, on another Serendipity Adventure. Breakfast included Departure Hotels available on date itinerary proposed, but cannot be confirmed until deposit received by Serendipity. Itinerary design and cost is valid for 5 days

12 Page 12 of 16 The customized itinerary above for a private group including 4 adults and 2 children costs: U.S. $26,160 total (or $4,360 per person) Optional tips and airfare are not included in the above price (see TIPPING below for suggested ranges) PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS: The above price quote is based on a $600 per person deposit, which you can pay with any major credit card to our corporate account with PayPal. Balance payment is required by sending us a personal check or a bank to bank wire to our account in Michigan. If you wish to pay balance with credit card, please add 3,5% surcharge to balance amount. Included: all hotels, activities and meals as described above. DAY 1 thru DAY 6 and DAY 12 thru DAY 15 includes your personal 4x4 full TOYOTA LAND CRUISER or NISSAN PATROL (including fuel) and the services of a private full time Serendipity adventure leader (see details below). Your Serendipity leader: Your private guide is your personal driver, but also your travel concierge, logistical manager, cultural facilitator, first-aid responder and general source of information about Costa Rica's nature, social structure, economy, democracy, geology, etc.. With Serendipity's guides you ll try some things which you never thought even in your wildest dreams you would ever attempt, and you ll appreciate the one-on-one relationship with a knowledgeable guide/leader who takes you through the steps. Private Serendipity Activities: A unique aspect of Serendipity vacations is that all main activities are exclusively operated for each private group these are NOT daily departure tours sold to the general public. This guarantees maximum flexibility when it comes to start times, intensity level, individual challenge (difficulty) and duration. If adjustments or changes are necessary rest assured Serendipity ACTS IMMEDIATELY as we understand your vacation time is precious. Serendipity implements the highest standards when it comes to operational safety. We invest in ONLY the very best quality equipment available and the preparation and training of our guides and support staff is at the top of the industry standard. Great Food! Breakfasts are usually provided by hotels or prepared by guides at Serendipityoutfitted camps and river expeditions. Lunches are often personalized picnics or trail lunches to enjoy in the wild or, if appropriate, we ll eat at local family restaurants! Dinners are flexible and guests make daily decisions to dine at the hotel or at local restaurant with their guide. Some dinners are more restricted due to location but guides will give you advance warming to insure the options are acceptable. Serendipity prices also include bottled water and travel snacks when needed or appropriate. Dietary preferences: Our company is well versed in managing food restrictions, alergies and personal preferences. We re also very proud to be one of the few companies in Costa Rica that

13 Page 13 of 16 caters to special preferences including high protein, low sugar, kosher, gluten-free and vegan. To our company it s a priority that our guests have a wonderful culinary experience. Also included are government taxes (about 17% on everything). Not Included: any service not mentioned above or labeled by asterisks (**) as well as personal expenditures including laundry, alcoholic beverages, exit visa for Costa Rica ($29 per person), tips for your principal Serendipity guide (who share it with all the other guides and drivers along the way). Serendipity Adventures, Inc. and Serendipity Costa Rica, S.A. have advised me that there are risks and dangers involved in participating in their adventure expedition. The dangers include possible injury or death caused by any of the activities provided, including but not limited to: hiking, biking and driving on and off roads, ascending on ropes and harnesses into trees, structures, natural formations or anchor points, rappelling, balloon inflation, flight and landing, white water rafting, rubber Duckies, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, scuba, NOTICE OF RISK climbing, insect and snake bites, power boating, animal bites, sailing, hiking on or near volcanoes, food poisoning, fishing, surfing, and windsurfing. I participate in these activities of my own free will, recognize that the element of risk is a necessary part of the enjoyment of this trip, and I hold Serendipity Adventures, Inc. and Serendipity Costa Rica, S.A. harmless for my safety beyond normal due care. By joining this trip I acknowledge that I have been informed of these risks. THIS IS A PRIVATE TRIP - only members of your own group will participate, except during adventures which require minimum participants for safety (balloon flight and rafting are examples). Reservations are confirmed upon receipt of $600 deposit per person. CANCELLATION: PEAK SEASON (Dec. 15-January 15 and March 1 April 15)): full refund, less prepaid hotel amounts and additional Serendipity cost of $190 per person, if requested in writing at least 90 days before trip start date. No refund if cancellation received less than 90 days before start date. Final payment at least 120 days before start date. Full payment should accompany reservations made less than 90 days before departure. Credit cards may be used for the deposit only. OTHER SEASONS - full refund, less prepaid hotel amounts and additional Serendipity cost of $190 per person, if requested in writing at least 60 days before start date. No refund if cancellation received less than 60 days before start date. Final payment at least 60 days before start date. Full payment should accompany reservations made less than 60 days before departure. PAYMENTS: Credit cards (AMEX, VISA and Mastercard) may be used for the deposit. The above price assumes final balance paid by cash, personal or corporate check on USA bank, wire transfer or money order. Any other final balance payment will result in a 3.5% additional processing fee or bank service fees. ITINERARY CHANGES AFTER TRIP CONFIRMED: while Serendipity always strives to be accommodating, changes in hotel arrangements and activities are usually impossible to make once a trip has been confirmed. Upgrades and changes are sometimes available at extra cost. Before placing your deposit for the proposed itinerary, please speak with your Serendipity itinerary designer if you have concerns about any hotel, bed arrangements, activities, transfers or food.

14 Page 14 of 16 WEATHER RISKS: As with all outdoor sports, scheduled balloon flights, rafting, climbing, air and ground transportation and other activities are weather dependent. Activities may be rearranged to accommodate weather conditions, or canceled in the interests of safety. CANCELED ACTIVITIES: Guides and pilots may decline to take guests who present a risk to themselves or others, who are inebriated or incapacitated in a way that creates a hazard for conducting the operation arranged. Serendipity will not refund for cancelled activities if participants have medical conditions or incapacitation not revealed prior to purchasing their Serendipity travels. INSURANCE: Car theft is EXTREMELY COMMON all over Costa Rica. Please avoid carrying extra "things" and then leaving them in the car when away from your hotel. Serendipity is not able to buy insurance in Costa Rica on vehicle contents or mysterious disappearance from vehicles, hotels, etc. Serendipity must therefore limit its liability to no more than $100 per person for loss of personal possessions. We STRONGLY recommend travel insurance for lost or stolen luggage, trip cancellation and medical emergency available thru your travel agent or RELEASE FORM: All participants will be required to sign and return a release form prior to departure. See Serendipity website: for current RELEASE form. TIPPING: We are constantly asked what is appropriate. Our answer is that any tip is optional. Like fishing charters or naturalist specialists in Costa Rica, guides usually receive about 7-12% of the total trip cost, depending on the quality of the service provided and on your preference. The tip you give to your principal guide is shared according to your instructions among all the people helping your trip run smoothly -- river guides, horseback guides, climbing guides, naturalist guides, drivers, etc. who will be with you at different times during the adventures. This policy eliminates a need to constantly be concerned about tipping etiquette in Costa Rica. AIR FARE to Costa Rica not included. We are pleased to help you locating best routes and fares.

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16 FAX: Page 16 of 16 ITINERARY: 1219-DANIEL