UNDISC COVER BBEAN N COSTA VENTU A RIC CA ADV URE

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Scot Lambert Long
5 years ago
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1 UNDISC COVER RED CARIB BBEAN N COSTA A RIC CA ADV VENTU URE 9 dayys/8 nights

2 Itinerary Overview Pura Vida! Join our award-winning Caribbean Costa Rica Adventure! Traverse the mist-enshrouded Talamanca Mountains to discover the isolated lowland rainforests and white sand Caribbean beaches of Costa Rica that are the indigenous territory of Bribri and Cabecar Indians and Afro-Caribbean residents. Not content with getting off the beaten path, this trip goes deep inside a region of Costa Rica where traditional life prevails and we can interact meaningfully with local and indigenous peoples who are mostly isolated in reservations where tourists don t venture. This active Wildland Adventure is ideal for families and all travelers who enjoy hiking, easy paddling dugout canoes, snorkeling, horseback riding, zip-lining through the rainforest and optional rappelling down waterfalls. Our expert naturalist guides seek out wildlife and introduce us to local families as their guests. We support local ecotourism initiatives as we learn how to make organic chocolate, help with a reforestation project, and visit the Casa de Mujeres an organized women s group designed to preserve their culture and help send their children to school by sharing their talents cooking, making crafts, using medicinal plants, growing spices and weaving their thatch roofs. You can also learn to dance salsa and Calypso! This is a Costa Rica vacation unlike any other! DAY OVERNIGHT HOTELS MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 ARRIVAL-SAN JOSE Hotel Bougainvillea Transfer to the hotel 2 BANANITO NORTE Selva Bananito Lodge BLD 3 BANANITO NORTE Selva Bananito Lodge BLD 4 BANANITO NORTE Selva Bananito Lodge BLD PUERTO VIEJO DE TALAMANCA PUERTO VIEJO DE TALAMANCA PUERTO VIEJO DE TALAMANCA Shawandha Lodge Shawandha Lodge Shawandha Lodge BLD 8 SAN JOSE Hotel Bougainvillea BL BL BL Transfer to Selva Bananito Veraguas Rainforest Full day waterfall and rappelling hike Zip line canopy tour and tree planting Horseback riding Snorkeling Cahuita National Park Cooking class Yorkin day trip, Talamanca Bribri Native Women s Group Banana Bikes and beaches Caribbean dance lesson Optional Turtle tour (when in season) Sloth sanctuary, transfer back to San Jose 9 DEPARTURE B Depart -2-

DAY 1: SAN JOSE Welcome reception at Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose where we are warmly greeted and transferred to the Hotel Bougainvillea, an attractive three-story hotel set in

Overnight at Hotel Bougainvillea. DAY 3: SELVA BANANITO - HIKE AND WATERFALL RAPPELLING Grab your water sandals and hiking boots for a full day hike (5-7 hours) into the rainforest.

After rappelling down an 80-foot waterfall (optional) enjoy a well-deserved hearty picnic lunch.

Other fun and interesting optional activities are available for those who prefer a milder outing. Overnight at Selva Bananito Lodge.

Caribbean coast. En route we visit the Veraguas Reserve for a rainforest walk.

This protected area of wildlife habitat and Indian territories constitute the largest nature reserve in Central America spanning 2.

3 DAY 1: SAN JOSE Welcome reception at Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose where we are warmly greeted and transferred to the Hotel Bougainvillea, an attractive three-story hotel set in tropical gardens just 20 minutes from the airport. Spacious rooms offer two double beds, television, and balcony, and other amenities include a swimming pool, tennis court, and restaurant. Overnight at Hotel Bougainvillea. DAY 3: SELVA BANANITO - HIKE AND WATERFALL RAPPELLING Grab your water sandals and hiking boots for a full day hike (5-7 hours) into the rainforest. There are over 60 river crossings, jumping in the plentiful river pools along the way and passing by a 600 year-old mahogany tree as we learn more about rainforest ecology. After rappelling down an 80-foot waterfall (optional) enjoy a well-deserved hearty picnic lunch. This is a real, adrenaline-packed Costa Rica eco tour for true adventure seekers and requires very good physical condition. Other fun and interesting optional activities are available for those who prefer a milder outing. Overnight at Selva Bananito Lodge. [BLD] D Itinerary in Detail DAY 2: SELVA BANANITO VERAGUAS RAINFOREST Depart with your guide throughh the highland cloud forests of the Central American isthmus to the slopess of the lowland Caribbean coast. En route we visit the Veraguas Reserve for a rainforest walk. After 3 ½ hours we transfer to a 4 wheel drive vehiclee traveling another 40 minutes over rugged roads deep into the protected tropical rainforests of La Amistad International Park. This protected area of wildlife habitat and Indian territories constitute the largest nature reserve in Central America spanning 2.2 million acres of uninterrupted wild lands across the Talamanca mountainn range of southern Costa Rica and Northern Panama. Overnight at Selva Bananito Lodge. [BLD] DAY 4: SELVA BANANITO - ZIP LINING, TREE PLANTING AND HORSEBACK RIDING After a short hike experience the canopy of the primary rainforest gliding on a zip line hanging 100-feet above the forest floor! This afternoon we take part in Selva Bananito s ongoing reforestation project. The Stein family has planted hundreds of tropical hardwoods on a part of their land originally cut down by banana plantations in the 1800 s. By creating forested corridors we help provide better habitat for wildlife. Our saplings willl one day become part of the tropical rainforest contributing to the conservation of endemic and endangered species while supporting the work of the Fundacion Cuencas de Limón, a nonprofit foundation that has become a regional leader in watershed protection and environmental educational programs. This afternoon, we settle in at Selva Bananito Jungle Lodge where cozy eco-style cabins are built on stilts in traditional Caribbean style. In the afternoon we saddle up for a 2-3 hour horseback ride among local farms, through rivers and over hills with beautiful vistas. After a candlelight dinner (there is no electricity at the lodge, water gets heated by solar panels) relax in your hammock to enjoy the sounds of the jungle and take in the light show of fireflies. Overnight Selva Bananito Lodge. [BLD] -3-

DAY 5: COCLES BEACH SNORKELING, CAHUITA NATIONAL PARK WALK AND COOKING LESSON We head South for an adventure on the reefs off Cahuita National Park (1-1.

On the underwater coral gardens watch for parrot fish, angel fish, snappers, groupers, grunts, blue tangs, jack fish and other speciess swimming amongst the

With one of Puerto Viejo s matriarch cooks, we learn to cook Caribbean-style and then enjoy a delicious lunch including patacones (fried plantains), coconut

The English language spoken here is called Patois in which many a phrase begins with, Let me tell you what s been happening.

[BLD] DAY 6: TALAMANCA- YORKIN Y DAY TRIP BRIBRI NATIVE WOMEN S GROUP Spend today in Yorkín, a small town located in the Talamanca- is plenty of wildlife to

Sit for a typical Bribri style lunch at the Casa de las Mujeres, part of an association of indigenous women dedicated to developing new sources of income to

Save room for dessert because the women share their secrets of chocolate making!

4 DAY 5: COCLES BEACH SNORKELING, CAHUITA NATIONAL PARK WALK AND COOKING LESSON We head South for an adventure on the reefs off Cahuita National Park ( hour drive). En route stop for snorkeling at the Cahuita National Park, part of a 10,000 acre protected reservee with miles of coral reef along the coast. On the underwater coral gardens watch for parrot fish, angel fish, snappers, groupers, grunts, blue tangs, jack fish and other speciess swimming amongst the sea fans, brain coral, boulder coral, fire coral, and elk horn corals. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. With one of Puerto Viejo s matriarch cooks, we learn to cook Caribbean-style and then enjoy a delicious lunch including patacones (fried plantains), coconut rice, fish or chicken, with Caribbean style-sauce, and fresh fruit shakes. The English language spoken here is called Patois in which many a phrase begins with, Let me tell you what s been happening. Dinner is served at a locall restaurant. Overnight at Hotel Shawandhaa Lodge. [BLD] DAY 6: TALAMANCA- YORKIN Y DAY TRIP BRIBRI NATIVE WOMEN S GROUP Spend today in Yorkín, a small town located in the Talamanca- is plenty of wildlife to view along the way so keep your Bribri indigenous territory, only accessible by a 1-1/2 hour motorized dug-out canoe on the spectacular Rio Yorkin. There binoculars handy. This is also one of the best places to see organic cacao and bananaa plantations, learn about medicinal plants, and interact with indigenous people of the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica. Through personal interaction with the Bribri Indians they share their culture, local customs, typical food, mythology and history. Sit for a typical Bribri style lunch at the Casa de las Mujeres, part of an association of indigenous women dedicated to developing new sources of income to preserve their culture such as farming, organic cacao production, and ecotourism. Your visit helps send their children to school. Save room for dessert because the women share their secrets of chocolate making! After a fun-filled day of eating and learning, we board our canoe and head back to Bambú and overnight in Cocles at Shawandhaa Lodge. [BL] DAY 7: COCLES BEACH BANANA BIKES, BEACH AND DANCING LESSON Today we hop on our local style banana bikes for a short ride to the town of Puerto Viejo where we learn about the amazing history of the Afro-Caribbean descendents of escaped slaves and rail road workers who settled along this isolated coast. You can take time to enjoy the beach. In the afternoon we have an opportunity to see some Soca, Salsa, Merengue, Hip Hop, Calypso, and African music, and learn to dance from an instructor with more than 20 years motivating Caribbean youth to take pride in their culture and heritage. Proceeds from our visit go to benefit the local youth dance group Olaba. -4-

From March to June experience an unforgettablee guided night tour to observe giant Leatherback turtles laying their eggs in the sand (optional tour).

However, local guides communicate by radio so they know exactly where each turtle is located and can advise you in advance how far you will have to walk before you decide to make the hike.

conservation program designed to protect them. Return to San Jose (5 hour drive). Overnight at Hotel Bougainvillea.

5 From March to June experience an unforgettablee guided night tour to observe giant Leatherback turtles laying their eggs in the sand (optional tour). The Southern Caribbean is an important hatchery for this type of turtles. The females come ashore at high tide which can occur late at night and as far as 1-2 miles walk one-way along the beach. However, local guides communicate by radio so they know exactly where each turtle is located and can advise you in advance how far you will have to walk before you decide to make the hike. Wear shorts and shoes that can get wet, as some of the landings on the beach are wet! Carefully abide by the guide s instructions and monitor young children to avoid disturbing the turtles. Overnight Shawandha Lodge. [BL] Photo Credit: Neil Osborne DAY 8: SAN JOSE SLOTH SANCTUARY Today you visit Aviarios del Caribe, a sloth refugee to learn about these shy and amazing creatures and the research, educational and conservation program designed to protect them. Return to San Jose (5 hour drive). Overnight at Hotel Bougainvillea. [BL] DAY 9: DEPARTURE Transfer to the airport for return to the USA or extend your Costa Rica vacation. [B] Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives. PRICING PER PERSON $3,495 TEENS CHILD (UNDER 11) $2,995 $2,350 Single supplement is $875. Departs with a minimum of 4 persons paying full price. Teen price applies when child shares the room with 2 adults. One teen per room allowed. Child price applies when child shares the room with 2 adults. Two children per room allowed. Prices valid until November 30, INCLUDED SERVICES All guided tours and excursions English-speaking naturalist guides Airport-hotel transfers, land and sea transportation 8 nights hotel accommodation as indicated Meals as indicatedd [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner] Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services N NOT INCLUDED SERVICES International Tips and gratuities Airport departuree taxes Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than listed above Personal expensess for extra services, optional activities, or changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation Any other items not mentioned above -5-

Accommodations HOTEL BOUGAINVILLEA About thirty minutes from the international airport in the suburbb of Santo Domingo is Hotel Bougainvillea.

Other amenities include a swimming pool, tennis court, and restaurant.

This type of architecture reduces moisture inside the buildings and improves the view and ventilation. The cabins stand on a ridge flanked by two streams.

Eighty percent of the hardwoodd used to build the cabins was obtained from second class wood discarded by loggers from trees already cut for other purposes.

Meals are served at the rancho, which has a dining area, bar, and smalll library upstairs. The kitchen and personnel facilities are downstairs.

With 14 tranquil rainforest bungalows nestled amongst the living tropical rainforest and beach environment, Hotel Shawandha Lodge has a "neo-primitive" concept with an artistic combination of noble

6 Accommodations HOTEL BOUGAINVILLEA About thirty minutes from the international airport in the suburbb of Santo Domingo is Hotel Bougainvillea. This attractive three-story hotel is set in beautifully landscaped grounds with paths winding through tropical flowers and garden benches. Spacious rooms offer two double beds, TV, and a balcony. Other amenities include a swimming pool, tennis court, and restaurant. SELVA BANANITO LODGE The Lodge is located at the foot of Muchilla Mountain, Each cabin stands on stilts, in traditional Caribbean style. This type of architecture reduces moisture inside the buildings and improves the view and ventilation. The cabins stand on a ridge flanked by two streams. On one side of the ridge you will see the Bananito River and its valley On the other side your eyes will falll upon the beautiful Cerro Muchilla and the Amistad Biosphere. Eighty percent of the hardwoodd used to build the cabins was obtained from second class wood discarded by loggers from trees already cut for other purposes. Without the use of electricity, guests enjoy a quiet and relaxing environment allowing one to stay in tune with the surroundings. Meals are served at the rancho, which has a dining area, bar, and smalll library upstairs. The kitchen and personnel facilities are downstairs. SHAWANDHA LODGE This hotel offers peaceful and relaxing eco-friendlof the South Caribbean coast of accommodations in the heart Costa Rica. With 14 tranquil rainforest bungalows nestled amongst the living tropical rainforest and beach environment, Hotel Shawandha Lodge has a "neo-primitive" concept with an artistic combination of noble woods, bamboo and palm, reinforcing the impression of being "at one with nature". Located just 4 hours from San Jose and 6 kilometers from Puerto Viejo, the hotel is the ideal tropical rainforest beach resort and it is characterized for its tranquility and the hospitality of its people, not to mention the exquisite and unique biodiversity (about 100 species of birds and over 2000 types of flora). The lodge sits on a 5 acres tract of secondary forest - preserving it's own eco system of wildlife. It is located 2000 meters away from the pristine beach of Playa Chiquita, a white sand and clear water beach that can only be access by trails. Playa Chiquita is an active member of the Blue Flag Program, which works towards sustainable development at beaches. -6-

7 Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release of Liability. Deposit requirements are as follows:* $500 per person for all trips in Central America. $700 per person for all trips in South America, the Middle East, Asia and the Far East, the Mediterranean and North America. 20% of land cost for all trips in Africa. This deposit is generally non-refundable. *Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if permits to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance. CUSTOM TRAVEL This trip isn t exactly what you re looking for? We are happy to design a private custom itinerary to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at , send an to info@wildland.com, or use the Ask The Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on our website. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person 91 or more: $ days: Initial deposit amount days: 50% of land cost 30 or less: 100% of land cost PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Predeparture Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure. REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a or info@wildland.com. We re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local incountry ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions -7-

One Country-Two Coasts Caribbean & Pacific Beaches 11 Days / 10 Nights

One Country-Two Coasts Caribbean & Pacific Beaches 11 Days / 10 Nights ITINERARY OVERVIEW Day 1: Arrival to San Jose & private transfer to Manuel Antonio Beach. Day 2: Free day to relax at Manuel Antonio