COSTA RICA NICARAGUA

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1 WONDERS OF COSTA RICA NICARAGUA & An escorted tour exploring the flora, fauna & culture of Costa Rica & Nicaragua 20th November to 5th December 2018 & 5th to 20th March 2019

2 Costa Rica is a small country, yet its particular topography and position between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans result in it being one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. It has, over the past decade, grown in its appeal to the UK traveller. No wonder when you consider its attractions: teeming rain forest, cloud forest, hot volcanoes and a remarkably diverse landscape and culture. Added to this is the famous wildlife of the region: spider, howler and capuchin monkeys, coatimundis and over 300 species of birds including brilliant toucans and scarlet macaws. NICARAGUA Leon Managua CARIBBEAN Masaya Volcano Pacaya SEA Granada Apoyo Lagoon Lake Nicaragua Las Isletas de Granada Arenal Volcano Tortuguero National Park Cloud Forest Monteverde Reserve San Jose PACIFIC COSTA RICA OCEAN The second part of our tour takes us further off the beaten track to Nicaragua, Central America s largest country and one that remains delightfully undiscovered. Despite its turbulent past, Nicaragua is a country imbued with colour and culture with a tremendous mix of natural beauty and historical sites. Witness extraordinary volcanic landscapes, learn how coffee beans are harvested and take in the splendours of the colonial cities, from the pastel hues of the great buildings that line the streets of Granada to the shady gardens and plazas of delightful Leon. Of all the Central American nations, Costa Rica offers some of the best tourism facilities with comfortable hotels, relatively good roads and excellent transportation facilities and in less developed Nicaragua we will stay in the best available accommodation. Both, however, are renowned for their warm and welcoming response to visitors and offer the genuine traveller a wealth of fascinating cultural and natural word marvels to discover. Arenal Volcano National Park

3 Granada Cathedral, Nicaragua Treetop walkway, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve The Itinerary Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa Rica. Fly by scheduled flight. Transfer to the Real InterContinental Hotel for an overnight stay. Dinner will be served in the hotel this evening. (D) Day 2 San Jose to Tortuguero. After an early breakfast depart for Tortuguero. We begin our journey driving north east passing through open pasture lands, small farm towns and Braulio National Park, an area rich in emerald green vegetation. Continuing our journey towards the Caribbean coast we embark local boats that will transfer us through the canals, sheltered in the jungle, to Pachira Lodge, our base for the next two nights. Arrive at the lodge for lunch and the remainder of the day is at leisure to settle in and familiarise yourself with the tropical surroundings. Alternatively, visit the village of Tortuguero to see local village life and learn of the conservation efforts being made to protect the sea turtles that come to spawn each year along the protected coastline. Dinner will be in the hotel this evening. (B, L, D) Day 3 Tortuguero National Park. Today explore Tortuguero National Park, home to more than 2000 plant species and over 400 species of birds together with a number of endangered mammals. In the early morning, board long boats that take us into the waterways of the park for eye level views of the astounding flora and fauna in its natural habitat. This is the best opportunity to spot wildlife that have just woken and are hunting for food. Return to the hotel for breakfast and the remainder of the morning is at leisure. In the afternoon, embark on a second boat tour through the canals with further opportunities to see the native wildlife; maybe spot a capuchin monkey or toucan in their natural habitat. (B, L, D) Day 4 Tortuguero to Arenal. After breakfast we take a short domestic flight from Tortuguero to San Jose and then transfer by road to the Arenal Volcano National Park. En-route stop in the picturesque town of Sarchi where, known for its handcrafts, there is an abundance of fine Costa Rican artwork to admire. After lunch in a local restaurant we continue to Arenal. Located in the fertile northern lowlands of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano stands at an impressive 5437 feet, with its perfect symmetrical shape looming over the neighbouring town of La Fortuna. Check in to the Arenal Kioro Hotel for a two night stay. (B, L, D) Capuchin monkey, Tortuguero National Park time to enjoy this natural phenomenon before dinner this evening in a local hotel restaurant. (B, L, D) Day 6 Arenal to Monteverde. After breakfast transfer to Monteverde, taking in the breathtaking views of the Arenal Lake and the rainforests as we ascend through the mountains. Arrive in Monteverde and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before checking in to the El Establo Hotel for our two night stay. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B, L) Day 7 Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Today experience a wonderful hike through the Cloud Forest Reserve at Monteverde. Widely recognised as one of the most biodiverse areas of Costa Rica, there are over 500 species of bird, 3000 plant species, and a number of reptiles and mammals which can be spotted with luck. The reserve has a vast network of trails and we will be accompanied by a local guide who will impart their knowledge about the native plant and animal species. Begin the tour with a visit to the hummingbird gallery for an opportunity to see some of these beautiful creatures up close. After lunch at a local restaurant, take a journey on the Sky Tram from where, on a clear day, we can view the Nicoya Gulf, Arenal Volcano, the lake, the mountain range and the cloud forest. Dinner will be in the hotel this evening. (B, L, D) Day 8 Monteverde to Granada, Nicaragua. This morning we make our way towards Nicaragua. After border crossing formalities at Penas Blancas, we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant offering traditional cuisine. As we continue our drive, take in the view of Lake Nicaragua before reaching the colonial splendours of Granada, the oldest continually inhabited mainland town in the Americas. Check in to the Colonial Hotel for a three night stay. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening. (B, L, D) Day 5 Arenal Hanging Bridges & Hot Springs. This morning is free to relax and enjoy the hotel s facilities. This afternoon experience the hanging bridges which span the canyons below, and bring us face to face with the upper level of the forest canopy. There are 16 bridges in total, including six hanging bridges, with the longest spanning 300 feet. The trails extend approximately two miles and in parts you will have 360 degree views of the tropical rainforest. Later we will visit the world famous Hot Springs. Spend Old colonial Leon, Nicaragua Exploring Tortuguero National Park

4 Las Isletas de Granada, Lake Nicaragua Scarlet Macaw, Costa Rica Day 9 Granada & Masaya Volcano. This morning take a city tour of Granada including La Casa de los Tres Mundos art gallery, the Old Train Station, Iglesia La Merced, which offers spectacular views from the bell tower and La Polvora, a fort where the Spanish stored dynamite and weapons in the 17th and 18th centuries to repel the attacks of English and French pirates. After lunch, enjoy time at leisure to explore the city independently. Later this afternoon we will depart towards Masaya Volcano for a night adventure. Starting just before sunset, we make our way up to the viewpoint which gives us the opportunity to see inside the crater mouth of the volcano, observing the red and glowing lava. (B, L) Day 10 Coffee Plantation & Las Isletas de Granada. Coffee is one of the main exports in Nicaragua and is imbedded into its culture and traditions. This morning see the coffee making process and taste the final product during our visit to a local coffee plantation. Afterwards, continue to Lake Nicaragua and enjoy a relaxing boat ride amongst the 365 small islands created by the volcanic activity of the Mombacho volcano around 20,000 years ago. Whilst some islands are inhabited most remain unspoiled and are home to many exotic plants, howler monkeys and orchids. Lunch will be served during the cruise after which we will return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. (B, L) Day 11 Leon Viejo Ruins & Leon. After breakfast we make our way to the city of Leon. En-route visit the ruins of Leon Viejo, one of the oldest Spanish colonial settlements in the Americas. Here our local guide will explain the history of the first capital city of Nicaragura, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whilst enjoying the breathtaking view of Momotombo volcano and Lake Xolotlan. Continue to Leon where we enjoy lunch before transferring to El Convento Hotel for our two night stay. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B, L) Day 12 Leon. Today we take a walking tour of Leon, the former capital of Nicaragua to explore the colonial architecture and the 18th century cathedral, one of the most prominent buildings in the city with fantastic views from the rooftop. Inside see fresco paintings, statues and the lion that guards the tomb of Ruben Dario, the famous Nicaraguan poet. See the murals of the city and come to understand the role played by Leon in the social, economic and political development of Nicaragua. Our tour will end with lunch at a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon exploring this beautiful colonial city independently. (B, L) Days 13 & 14 Leon to Pacaya. After breakfast we leave the historical city of Leon and drive south to Apoyo Lagoon. Named one of the most beautiful lagoons in Nicaragua, it lies in the centre of the inverted cone of a crater, surrounded by leafy green forest. Check in to Pacaya Lodge & Spa which overlooks the lake offering stunning views and spend the next two nights enjoying the facilities of the hotel, the surrounding walking trails and maybe take a swim in the lagoon that lies a short walk from the hotel. Enjoy delicious cuisine for lunch and dinner at the hotel s open-air restaurant each day. (B, L, D) Day 15 Managua to San Jose to London. In the early morning transfer to Managua for our flight to San Jose, Costa Rica. Enjoy a city tour and lunch before transferring back to the airport for our return flight to London. (B, L) Day 16 London. Arrive this morning. NB. Though the itinerary has been planned to be less strenuous than most tours to the region, it must be stressed that the tour is nonetheless quite taxing, with some long drives, some early starts and frequent changes of hotel. To best enjoy your experiences in Central America, you should be in good physical condition and be able to participate in nature walks of varied lengths. The weather will be hot and humid and slightly cooler in the evening. PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy Twin: 4795 Single: 5995 Monarch butterfly, Monteverde Cloud Forest PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel Internal flights from Tortuguero to San Jose & Managua to London 14 nights hotel accommodation Meals as indicated (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner) Excursions Entrance fees Transfers English speaking local guide Noble Caledonia Tour Manager Gratuities Arrival and departure taxes Border fees. Not Included: Travel insurance. +44 (0)

5 YOUR ACCOMMODATION Hotel exterior and pool Lodge rooms and covered walkways The Factory Steak and Lobster Restaurant Classic room Restaurant Standard room Real InterContinental Hotel, San Jose Overnight stay The Real InterContinental is located in one of the most exclusive areas of San Jose with many shops located at its doorstep. All 372 rooms are elegantly decorated featuring air-conditioning, Wi-Fi internet access, mini-bar, safe, hairdryer and cable television. The four different restaurants and two bars onsite offer a multitude of choice, specialising in local and international cuisine. Enjoy the many facilities at the hotel including the contemporary designed swimming pool, tennis courts, gym with sauna and steam room as well as the famous InterContinental Spa. Pachira Lodge, Tortuguero Two Nights Located next to Tortuguero National Park, Pachira Lodge offers 88 comfortable rooms that are connected by elevated, covered wooden walkways that blend with the surrounding forest. All rooms are comfortable and airy with high ceilings, screened windows and a ceiling fan. Buffet style international cuisine is offered in the hotel restaurant, and whilst at the bar you can enjoy great views of the main lagoon. Surrounded by a network of scenic canals, this area is rich in flora and fauna and this is the perfect location from which to explore the National Park. The hotel situated below Arenal Volcano The hotel grounds Restaurant Suite Spa and hot springs The gym and spa Deluxe double room Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa Hotel, Arenal Two Nights The property sits on 27 acres of undulating land, surrounded by two crystal clear water streams flowing from Arenal Volcano National Park. All 53 suites are spacious and feature two terraces with impressive views of Arenal Volcano and the mountains, a hydro-massage hot tub, air conditioning, safe, mini bar, coffee maker, cable television, hairdryer and Wi-Fi internet access. Onsite there is also a private hot spring and a spa, a swimming pool, two restaurants and a gym. The combination of spectacular views with excellent services makes for an unforgettable experience. El Establo Mountain Hotel, Monteverde Two Nights Located on a hillside, El Establo has wonderful views of the Gulf of Nicoya and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Guests can enjoy the green landscape from the room s balcony or simply by walking around this beautiful 1000 acre property. The 155 rooms are distributed over nine buildings throughout the property, each with its own porter and an efficient shuttle service to use as needed. The functional guest rooms feature a balcony with chairs, cable television, mini bar and phone. The hotel also has a number of walking trails, tennis court, gym, spa and two restaurants.

6 The colonial exterior and pool The hotel s central courtyard Reception Double room El Victoriano Restaurant Executive room Hotel Colonial, Granada Three Nights Hotel Colonial is a tranquil oasis located in the historic centre of Granada. The famous cathedral and Central Park are a short walk away, and you are surrounded by colonial and neoclassical architecture and cobbled streets. Built with a colonial style in mind, the hotel reflects traditional houses in Granada. All rooms are well appointed with air-conditioning, ceiling fan, cable television and Wi-Fi internet access. The hotel facilities include two outdoor pools, gym, massage service and a restaurant. El Convento Hotel, Leon Two Nights El Convento Hotel is perfectly located a short walk from the city centre and Leon Cathedral. Formerly the site of the San Francisco Convent, the hotel was reconstructed in the same style as the convent and retains an antique charm. The hotel features a flowering central courtyard and large indoor patio, an outdoor pool and a restaurant serving international cuisine. The 31 comfortable guest rooms all feature cable television, Wi-Fi internet access and air-conditioning. The terrace King room King room balcony Restaurant Guardaberranco Pacaya Lodge, Pacaya Two Nights Pacaya Hotel offers 26 rooms and features stunning views over the jungle canopy to the Crater Lake, with the colonial city of Granada and Lake Nicaragua just visible on the horizon. Furnished and decorated by Nicaraguan artisans, the rooms have an authentic feel that blends well with the lodge s warm and contemporary design. There is an open air restaurant offering fine dining with locally sourced ingredients. Relax on your private balcony or enjoy a cocktail in the infinity pool that overlooks Crater Lake. Take a hike on the trails surrounding the grounds where you may spot orchids, monkeys, hummingbirds and many species of butterflies, or head down to the lake shore to swim or sunbathe in the fresh waters of Apoyo Lagoon. The Lodge overlooking Apoyo Lagoon 2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0) info@noble-caledonia.co.uk Itinerary and accommodation subject to change. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Cover image: Great Green Macaw _K