+44 (0)20 8741 7390 Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Caribbean on the other, tiny Costa Rica can boast an unparalleled array of flora and fauna. Its stunning mix of high mountains, lush rainforests and protected coastline can boast one of the richest concentrations of biodiversity on earth. Home to the largest percentage of protected area anywhere in the world, this spectacular adventure takes you from Costa Rica s bustling capital deep into the rainforests of Tortuguero, Arenal and Monteverde, where you can search for sea turtles, quetzals and sloths by boat, on foot and from zip lines. There will also be time to enjoy a fascinating chocolate tour, take a soak amongst hot volcanic springs and relax on the white sand beaches of the Pacific. A comprehensive discovery of one of Central America s most breathtaking natural gems, this is a journey into the wild heart of Central America, travelling in the company of local guides and naturalist experts, to explore a country that has long been respected for its progressive environmental policies. HIGHLIGHTS: Take a chocolate tour at a cocoa plantation Hike through some of the richest rainforests in Central America Search for sloths and quetzals in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Bathe in volcanic hot springs Enjoy the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park TOUR INCLUDES: 9 nights in three to four star boutique hotels 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Accompanied by an experienced English speaking local guide on private or shared basis Private transfers throughout *Please note the prices shown are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin or double room
ITINERARY DAY 1: SAN JOSE Your journey begins in Costa Rica's bustling capital, one of the youngest in Central America. Set in a fertile landscape of coffee and sugar cane plantations, San José was founded in the middle years of the 18th century by order of Cabildo de León and today provides us with one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the region. On arrival you will be met at the airport by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. DAY 2: SAN JOSE - TORTUGUERO The drive on towards the Caribbean coast today traverses most of Costa Rica's varied terrain, taking you across mountainous divides, through lush rainforest and past banana plantations towards the deserted beaches of the Tortuguero National Park. Encompassing a vast expanse of evergreen swampland and volcanic islands, the park is famed for its large green sea turtles, which come to these protected shores to lay their eggs during the nesting season (July and September). You'll travel through these fertile wetlands by boat on arrival, to reach your cosy lodge later this afternoon. (B,L,D) DAY 3: TORTUGUERO Boasting over 20 miles of coastline and 11 different habitats, Tortuguero is a haven, not only for turtles, but also for spectacled caiman, manatees, sloths and three of Costa Rica's four species of monkeys. Navigating its tranquil canals by boat this morning, you'll then continue to explore on foot, discovering for yourself a beautiful and timeless landscape that was formed by a combination of river sedimentation and volcanic activity from the young mountains that lie farther inland. (B,L,D) DAY 4: TORTUGUERO - ARENAL This morning you head for La Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve, to enjoy a chocolate tour at a local plantation. A revealing excursion through the history and wonders of the cocoa plant, the tour provides a highly informative insight into the secrets of a commodity once considered culturally important to both the Aztecs and the Maya. You'll learn all about the chocolate making process during the tour and there will be time at the end for some essential tasting, before continuing the journey on to Arenal Volcano National Park. (B,L)
DAY 5: ARENAL Costa Rica's most active volcano, the smouldering cone of Arenal rises over 1630 metres above the park, besides the waters of the largest man-made lake in the country. A ride on the exhilarating Sky Tram to the top of the reserve presents some spectacular views of the lake and its surrounding forest. It also provides the starting point for a breathtaking adventure through the tree tops, as you negotiate a series of zip lines across the park. Arriving at the Tabacon Hot Springs later this afternoon, you then have a chance to unwind in the natural volcanic pools before dinner. (B,L,D) DAY 6: ARENAL - MONTEVERDE The journey towards Monteverde today begins by boat, an ideal way to take in the stunning volcanic scenery and the forested peaks of the Tilaran Mountain Range. It also provides the opportunity to view some of the abundant species and wetland birds that makes these lake shores their home. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a superlative natural setting, with over 2,000 species of plants, some 400 different types of birds and over 100 mammal species settled within its lush confines. A final ascent up into its green hills this afternoon precedes your arrival at our accommodation. (B) DAY 7: MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST One of the last remaining refuges of the rare and colourful Resplendent Quetzal, the Monteverde Cloud Forest is made up of 90% virgin forest. Spanning six ecological zones, it can boast some 5% of that total biodiversity of the entire planet and a gentle hike through it today provides the perfect setting to learn more about its history, flora and fauna. Alongside the quetzal, you could also hope to see sloths and primates, rare golden toads and wild pigs and any one of half a dozen species of beautiful hummingbirds. (B) DAY 8: MONTEVERDE - MANUEL ANTONIO Transferring down the Central Pacific coast today we'll pass beside the Tarcoles River, where huge crocodiles lie basking on the banks. Continuing on to Carara National Park you'll then stop to hike through the primary rainforest, a chance for you to spot toucans, monkeys, iguanas and scarlet macaws. Then it is on to Manuel Antonio National Park, located along Costa Rica's Pacific coastline just to the south of the town of Quepos. (B)
DAY 9: MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK A national treasure, Manuel Antonio National Park has been voted amongst the most beautiful anywhere. Boasting one of the most impressive landscapes of any national reserve, the park is a wondrous mix of mountains and forests, beautiful coral reefs and white sand beaches. In the company of a naturalist guide today, you will set off in search of sloths and hunt for several types of nonpoisonous snakes, as you listen to the birdsong echoing through the forest. Afterwards there will be an opportunity to enjoy some of the unspoiled beaches, before returning to the hotel for your final evening. (B) DAY 10: MANUEL ANTONIO - SAN JOSE A private transfer back to San José in time to catch your international flight back to the UK. (B)
ACCOMMODATION ARENAL ARENAL SPRINGS Arenal Springs is located just outside the quaint town of La Fortuna on the way towards the Arenal Volcano National Park. Each distinctive junior suite comes with direct views of the volcano and is surrounded by exotic gardens. Facilities include a poolside bar, two restaurants, a fitness centre and an excellent spa. MANUEL ANTONIO PLAYA ESPADILLA Wonderfully located a stone's throw from Playa Espadilla Beach in Quepos, this hotel offers an outdoor pool and tennis courts. There are 16 simple air-conditioned rooms and a deluxe junior suite with large spa bath. There are plenty of excellent dining options a short walking distance from the hotel including top seafood restaurants. Manuel Antonio National Park is just 200m from the property. MONTEVERDE FONDA VELA The Fonda Vela Hotel is located in beautiful Monteverde, famous for its resplendent quetzals, three-wattled bellbirds, an abundance of orchids, and a gorgeous cloud forest. The climate is refreshing, many times referred to as "eternal spring". The Fonda Vela has 40 rooms in 9 separate buildings, this includes 20 standard rooms, 18 junior suites, and two mountain suites. All rooms have private bath, hot water and 2 queen-size beds. The Fonda Vela Hotel has nine buildings scattered throughout the landscaped property, and are designed with natural lighting, privacy and warmth in mind. They all have large windows with views of our forest allowing the beauty outside to be a part of the cosy interior. Other services include the elegant, spacious restaurant, a separate bar and TV room. Private hiking trails, guided horse-back riding, and laundry service is also available. The Fonda Vela is a great hotel for birdwatching, with more than one kilometer of private hiking trails and is within walking distance of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the Hummingbird Gallery and the Children's Eternal Rainforest. SAN JOSE HOLIDAY INN ESCAZU The Holiday Inn Escazu is a few miles from the city centre, located a 15 minute drive from the airport. With spacious and stylish rooms, an a la carte restaurant and lounge bar, this is a good overnight option. There is also a seasonal rooftop pool. TORTUGUERO
MAWAMBA LODGE Mawamba Lodge is a rustic eco-lodge in Tortuguero National Park. Their superb guides will help you get the most from your time exploring the area s maze-like lagoons, wildlife-rich rainforest and turtle beaches. Mawamba consists of 54 simple but comfortable standard rooms. Buffet meals are served at the family-style poolside restaurant whilst a café offers drinks and snacks along with complimentary Wi-Fi. When not exploring, it s nice to relax by the swimming pool and look out for the iguanas that roam the gardens, sip on a cool drink at the bar or unwind with a game of beach volleyball or pool. Within Mawamba s grounds are butterfly and frog gardens, while the beach is just a short stroll away. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0)20 8741 7390 Fax +44 (0) 20 8741 3610 Email info@wildfrontierstravel.com Website wildfrontierstravel.com