+44 (0)20 8741 7390 Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Caribbean on the other, tiny Costa Rica is a country that fights well above its weight. A wonderful mix of high mountains and lush rainforests, around 25% of the country s landmass has been set aside as protected reserves, the largest percentage of protected area anywhere in the world. A haven for a dazzling array of flora and fauna, this spectacular wildlife adventure takes you deep into national parks that are home to jaguar, dolphins, turtles and a quite astonishing collection of birds. In Tortuguero National Park you will be able to watch rare sea turtles nesting on the beaches, whilst the secluded landscapes of the Osa Peninsula provide a chance for whale watching and jungle hikes in the Corcovado National Park. A truly breathtaking journey into the wild heart of Central America, there is even time for some adrenaline filled white water rafting and a chance to snorkel amongst the rich marine life of the Caño Island Biological Reserve, before flying back to Costa Rica s bustling capital. HIGHLIGHTS: Visit the sea turtle nesting grounds of Tortuguero National Park Go white water rafting through the lush rainforests of Siquirres Enjoy the rich and varied wildlife of the Osa Peninsula. Relax at one of the finest eco-lodges in Latin America Discover the marine wonders of the Caño Island Biological Reserve TOUR INCLUDES: 8 nights in three to four star boutique hotels Two domestic flights in economy class 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 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 to 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 - SIQUIRRES An adventurous journey begins by boat this morning, taking you across the marshland to join your 4x4 vehicles. Travelling overland to the river, you then cross by cable car to your spectacularly located jungle eco-lodge. Surrounded by tropical rainforest, the lodge lies amidst a fertile landscape that is home to a rich array of butterflies and colourful birdlife and this afternoon you can choose to take an optional canopy tour, a waterfall hike, or simply relax in your private bungalow. (B,L,D)
DAY 5: SIQUIRRES - SAN JOSE Siquirres lies along one of Costa Rica's most exhilarating white water rafting rivers and this morning you'll take a fun-filled ride down class III-IV rapids. Floating deep into the surrounding gorges, you'll pass through a verdant setting teeming with birds, butterflies and tree frogs. The jungle canopy echoes to the sound of toucans and, as you drift past serene pools and cascading waterfalls, you'll enter a wilderness of breathtaking magnificence. There will be time to freshen up and change at the end of the expedition, before transferring back to San Jose. (B,L) DAY 6: SAN JOSE - PENINSULA DE OSA Flying out of the capital this morning, you head next for the pristine Osa Peninsula, one of Costa Rica's hidden gems. Occupying the secluded landscapes of the southwest, it provides a gateway into the rich, bio-diverse landscapes of the Corcovado National Park. On arrival, a boat transfer through the mangroves will bring you to your lodge, set in the heart of a wonderland of exotic trees, rare birds and hidden beaches. Whales and dolphins can sometimes be spotted off shore and a hike along the trails is the perfect way to appreciate the sights and sounds of the surrounding rainforest. (B,L,D) DAY 7: PENINSULA DE OSA A full day exploring the Corcovado National Park introduces you to a truly unique ecosystem. With thousands of species of fauna, some 400 species of birds and nearly 140 different species of mammals, it offers a chance to see scarlet macaws, wild boar and maybe even jaguars. You'll also have an opportunity to enjoy a rare alfresco lunch in this midst of this natural splendour and hike out to some of the jungle waterfalls, before being transported back to your lodge to bask in the late afternoon rays of a jungle sunset. (B,L,D) DAY 8: PENINSULA DE OSA Your last day on the peninsula provides a chance to visit the Caño Island Biological Reserve, where you will be able to make full use of some of the most spectacular snorkelling spots along the coast. Famed for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs and marine life, these coastal waters are home to manta rays, sea turtles, manatees and a dazzling variety of fish. Evidence of pre-columbian human activity on the island is also substantial, with a number of ancient stone spheres being of particular interest. (B,L,D) DAY 9: PENINSULA DE OSA - SAN JOSE The short flight back to San José this morning connects with your onward international flight. (B)
ACCOMMODATION PENINSULA DE OSA AGUILA DE OSA Perched above the beach, the Aguila de Osa is a lovely property offering a dozen simple rooms with terraces and sea views. The rooms are traditional with ceiling fans and large ensuite bathrooms. The open-air restaurant serves gourmet food, including fresh fish and organic vegetables, with great views of the bay. There is also a bar serving cocktails and other drinks. Excursions to Corcovado national park and Cano Island are included and other activities are payable locally. 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. SIQUIRRES RIOS TROPICALES Rio Tropicales is a simple ecolodge located in primary rainforest on the Pacuare River. There are dormitories here, but double and single ensuite rooms are also offered. The property is surrounded by hiking trails and waterfalls, with the main activity being white water rafting. Optional tours include ziplining, horse riding and bird watching. 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