O OSA PENINSULA WILDLANDD ADVENTURE 8 days/ 7 nights Visit us at www.wildland.com
Itinerary Overview Venture deep into the heart of Corcovado National Park to explore and discover the vast, pristine rainforest wilderness of Costa Rica s remote Osa Peninsula, identified by National Geographic as One of the most biologically intense places on the planet. Based from the premier ecolodges of La Paloma and Lapa Rios located on each side of Corcovado National Park, we hike, kayak, snorkel, swim, and explore miles of wilderness trails and waterways among the rainforests, rivers, waterfalls and pristine tropical beaches of the Osa. Everywhere colorful scarlet macaws fly overhead and monkeys cavort in the forest canopy. We spot spectacular tropical bird species and are always on the lookout for tapir, anteaters, coatimundi, peccary herds and other wildlife. We travel by boat along the wilderness coastline to reach the Sirena Ranger Station where jungle cats including puma and jaguar roam, and then either hike or fly out of this jungle wilderness. Local research biologists share firsthand the Yaguara Wild Cats Conservation Project supported by proceeds from your trip to protect the neotropical felines of the Osa. We engage local people who share their stories about life in the wilds of Costa Rica. An optional overnight in the remote and rustic facilities of the Sirena Ranger Station on Day 4 is available on request. DAY DATE OVERNIGHT HOTEL MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 Sat, ARRIVE SAN JOSE Hotel Grano de Oro 2 Sun, NORTHERN OSA La Paloma BLD 3 Mon, NORTHERN OSA La Paloma BLD 4 Tue, NORTHERN OSA La Paloma or Sirena Ranger Station BLD 5 Wed, SOUTHERN OSA Lapa Rios BLD 6 Thur, SOUTHERN OSA Lapa Rios BLD 7 Fri, SOUTHERN OSA Lapa Rios BLD 8 Sat, SAN JOSE - DEPART B Arrival transfer Transfer, fly to Drakes Bay, nocturnal walk at La Paloma Caño Island snorkeling and whale watching Day tour to San Pedrillo Ranger Station, or boat to Sirena Ranger Station for overnight. AM boat to Sirena, Hike to Leona Station 6-7 hrs or charter flight Lapa Rios private rainforest reserve explorations AM: Wild waterfalls hike PM: Yaguara Wildcat Research Flight back to San Jose Departure assistance -2-
Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: SAN JOSE Arrive at San Jose Juan Santamaria International Airport and transfer to the charming Hotel Grano de Oro, a renovated stately mansion built at the turn of the century and updated with the comforts and amenities of a modern hotel. Hotel Grano de Oro is located on a quiet street near many fine restaurants, theaters and shops. Enjoy a tropical beverage in their open-air Jacuzzi and be sure to try the chocolate cake! DAY 2: NORTHERN OSA PENINSULA NOCTURNAL WALK We leave the city behind as our plane heads south to the wild and lush Osa Peninsula (50 min.). A short drive takes us to our boat along the Agujitas River to our rainforest lodge perched on a high bluff overlooking the Pacific. The rest of the day is free to explore Cocalito Beach, kayak along the Agujitas River, fly over the treetops on a canopy zip line or join the amazing Bug Lady and Reptile Man on a nocturnal walk in search of amazing spiders, snakes and frogs! (Zip line not included). Overnight at La Paloma Lodge in one of seven deluxe thatched roof bungalows perched on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean. [BLD] DAY 3: NORTHERN OSA PENINSULA CANO ISLAND Get your mask and snorkel ready to spend the day at the beach. A 45 minute boat ride takes us to Cano Island. Keep a sharp eye out for whales which are commonly seen migrating here almost year round. In a calm, protected bay of the island we float along the surface of the ocean watching schoolss of colorful reef fish darting through the water below. Starfish, octopus, conch, and moray eels hide in the underwater rock and coral formations (perfect for first time or experienced snorkelers). Take a break from snorkeling and wander up the island trails to indigenous burial sites. We enjoy a fresh picnic on the tropical island beach leaving plenty of time for another swim before heading back to the lodge. Don't forget an underwater camera and sunscreen, though there is shade on the beach from the palms. Overnight at La Paloma Lodge [BLD] -3-
DAY 4: CORCOVADO NATIONAL N PARK SAN PEDRILLO OR LA SIRENA Option I: Grab your hiking shoes and hop on board a boat for the short trip to the San Pedrillo Ranger Station at the northern boundary of Corcovado National Park. An expert bilingual guide takes us on a hike along beach trails from through mangrove to montane forests, habitat of four species of monkeys, as well as coatis, sloths, anteaters, and much more, as well as a wide variety of birds, including tanagers, flycatchers, kingfishers, manakins, trogons, crested guans, and spectacular scarlet macaws and toucans. Keep a sharp eye and with luck you may see a Harpy eagle, tapir, a big cat or a crocodile! After lunch at the ranger station there is a short hike to a beautiful waterfall and a refreshing swim in the cool clear water! Return to overnight at La Paloma Lodge. Option II: More ambitious travelers willing to rough it for a night in order to have more time in the tropical wilderness of the Sirena Ranger Station can ride the boat a little further down the coast and spend the day exploring the multitude of trails in this pristine rainforest teaming with wildlife. The best chances of seeing the most wildlife is in the late afternoon and early morning so sleeping at the Sirena Station and waking up the next morning is the most in-depth wildlife experience in Corcovado National Park. The Sirena Ranger Station provides accommodation but is not an ecolodge and does not provide any kind of guest services! You sleep in screened-ior fans, and simple meals prepared by the park kitchen staff. [BLD] DAY 5: CORCOVADO NATIONAL N PARK AND HIKE TO LA LEONA STATION If you spent the last night at La Paloma you catch an early morning launch for the short trip (45 min) to the Sirena Ranger Station in the heart of Corcovado National Park. Sirena is rooms with 2 bunk beds in each (possibly shared with up to 4 persons), no air-conditioning considered the best area in Corcovado National Park for wildlife viewing with an abundance of local trails that traverse a wide range of habitats, from wild tropical beaches to mountainous highlands covered in dense virgin rainforests, and the Sirena and Claro River estuariess where crocodile and bull sharks lurk. We begin the day early to maximize our time exploring this area. Depending on tides and conditions we begin the long, hot hike on a beautiful trail weaving in and out of the forest and palm-fringed white sand beaches (6 hrs) where monkeys, macaws and anteaters can often be seen in the trees overhead. If lucky it s possible to see a harpy eagle, tapir, jaguar, puma or a crocodile! We enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of a palm tree and refresh ourselves with fresh coconut water served up on the beach by a machete-wielding naturalist jungle guide. From La Leona Ranger Station on the south boundary of the park we walk for 30 more minutes down the beach to Carate where a 4WD vehiclee is waiting to take us to Lapa Rios Ecolodge, our home for the next 3 nights. Perched on a hilltop with stunning views to the sea, the Lapa Rios ecolodge offers 16 spacious open-air bungalows perched on a hillside overlooking the sea with queen size beds, hardwood floors, private bath and shower inside and out, and a tranquil private balcony with spectacular views and wildlife outside your door and on your roof. Lapaa Rios is one of the first award-winning ecolodges in the world. Overnight at Lapa Rios Ecolodge [BLD] Optional Flight: During the hike you only carry a day pack with lunch and two liters of water while luggage is transported ahead to the Lapa Rios. A charter flight can be arranged from the Sirena Ranger Station airstrip to Puerto Jimenez for those not interested in doing the hike. (Ask about additional cost). -4-
DAY 6: LAPA RIOS RAINFOREST RESERVE Enjoy a full day hiking and exploring among the many rivers, waterfalls, and natural pools for swimming on miles of wilderness trails winding through the private rainforest reserve of Lapa Rios. Resident naturalist guides identify wildlife and share their deep knowledge of the complex ways that animals and plants co-exist in the tropical rainforest ecosystem. Relax and be on the lookout for wildlife from your veranda always listening and watching for birds flitting through the forest or fruits falling from above as monkeys and parrots feed in the canopy outside your door! Enjoy the pristine beach and tide pools by day and join an optional rain forest night walk. You can also take their 'Twigs, Pigs and Garbage' tour to learn firsthand their commitment to sustainability and maybe get some ideas how you can live a greener way of life (even without a pet pig)! Overnight at Lapa Rios Ecolodge [BLD] DAY 7: WATERFALLS HIKE AND WILD CAT RESEARCH Start your day with fresh Costa Rican coffee delivered to your bungalow, then plan any number of options from enjoying a massage or setting out on more hikes in the rainforest ncluding very adventurous forays recommended for hardy hikers looking for a challenge (wet walking and steep trails) or easier more relaxing walks and birdwatching. This afternoon you have an opportunity to learn first-hand about jaguars, pumas and other wildcats of the rainforest alongside local wildcat researchers working in the field to conserve felines in the Osa Peninsula. They make a presentation of their research project and findings, and invite anyone interested in participating in activities from setting up and checking heat sensor triggered cameras that monitor the movements of wildlife, tracking and collecting footprints, analyzing cat scat determining their diet and presenting research findings to local schools and community groups, etc. Overnight at Lapa Rios Ecolodge [BLD] DAY 8: SAN JOSE DEPART D OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP Awaken as the sunlight emerges over the sea and the jungle begins to stir. Transfer to Puerto Jimenez airstrip (45 min) for scheduled Nature Air flight back to San Jose (50 min). Assistance for transfer to the international terminal in time for your onward departure, or extend your Wildland Adventure in Costa Rica. [B] Note: Your return international departure must be scheduled from 1 p.m. or later in order to allow time for connecting with the flight from the Osa Peninsula. Otherwise, we willl make arrangements for an extra night in San Jose with optional walking exploration of the city or begin your trip extension. Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives. -5-
2012 Departure Dates Jan 7 - Jan 14, 2012 Jul 14 - Jul 21, 2012 Feb 11 - Feb 18, 2012 Aug 4 - Aug 11, 2012 Mar 24 - Mar 31, 2012 Aug 18 - Aug 25, 2012 Mar 31 - Apr 7, 2012 Nov 17 - Nov 24, 2012 Apr 7 - Apr 14, 2012 Dec 22 - Dec 29, 2012 (and on request) PRICING PER PERSON BASED ON GROUP SIZE: Guaranteed departures for 2 or more persons. 2012 PRICES SEASON ADULT CHILD (12 AND UNDER) High Season $3,595 $2,695 Low Season $3,350 $2,595 High Season: Nov 1-Dec 14, 2011 and Jan 6-April 30, 2012 Low Season: May 16-Oct 31, 2012 Peak Season: Add $375 per adult and $135 per child surcharge between Dec 15, 2011 to Jan 5, 2012. *Private departures for as few as two persons can be arranged anytime based on availability. Minimum age to do the walk from Sirena to Carate is 12. 2013 Departure Dates Jan 5 - Jan 12, 2013 Jul 13 - Jul 20, 2013 Feb 9 - Feb 16, 2013 Aug 3 - Aug 10, 2013 Feb 23 Mar 02, 2013 Aug 17 - Aug 24, 2013 Mar 23 Mar 30, 2013 Nov 16 - Nov 23, 2013 Apr 6 - Apr 13, 2013 Dec 22 - Dec 29, 2013 (and on request) May 4 May 11, 2013 2013 PRICES SEASON ADULT CHILD (12 AND UNDER) High Season $3,695 $2,795 Low Season $3,450 $2,695 High Season: Nov 1-Dec 14, 2012 and Jan 6-April 30, 2013 Low Season: May 16-Oct 31, 2013 Peak Season: Add $375 per adult and $135 per child surcharge between Dec 15, 2012 to Jan 5, 2013. *Private departures for as few as two persons can be arranged anytime based on availability. Minimum age to do the walk from Sirena to Carate is 12. -6-
INCLUDED SERVICES All guided tours and excursions National Park entrance fees English-speaking local naturalist guides for the tours included Airport-hotel transfers, internal air, land and sea transportation Hotel accommodation as indicated Meals as indicatedd [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner] Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services NOT INCLUDED SERVICES International airfare 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 beyond our control Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation 40 LB. PER PERSON BAGGAGE WEIGHT LIMIT ON DOMESTIC FLIGHTS AND SMALL BOATS There is a 40 lb. per person baggage weight limit per person for transportation on domestic airline flights and small boat trips within your itinerary plus a 10 pounds carry on (including camera equipment). The airline and boat operators enforce these limitations on your checked baggage for safety reasons. You and your small carry-on bag will be weighed separately. To comply with thesee requirements, we suggest that you repack only the items needed for the portion of your itinerary that includes thesee modes of transportation, and leavee other items behind in storage. If you are returning to the same San Jose area hotel, simply request to store your excess luggage at the hotel. If you are not returning to the same hotel, give your extra baggage to your transfer driver to be stored by your ground operator. Request that your luggage be brought to you upon your pick up and return transfer from the plane or boat portion of your trip. Please ask your guide in Costa Rica if you have any additional questions regarding this policy. Accommodations HOTEL GRANO DE ORO, SAN JOSE Hotel Grano de Oro is a renovated stately Victorian mansion built at the turn of the century and updated with the warmth and comfort of a private home. The thirty-twand corridors are elegantly decorated with watercolors, tapestries, and locally handcrafted furniture creating charm and character in traditional Latin individually styled rooms, common areas American style and heritage. Hotel Grano de Oro is one of the finest boutique hotels in Costa Rica for its home-away-from- tours home charm and one we always recommend for the best of Costa Rica. It is located on a quiet streett near many fine restaurants, theaters and shops. Meals are served in an intimate dining area and garden courtyard. The open-aiperfect spot to begin Jacuzzi on the rooftop garden terrace is a your travel in Costa Rica, especially a Costa Rica honeymoon! Services offered by the hotel include currency exchange, fax and mail service, in-room safes, wireless internet, room service, laundry service, cable TV and international calls. -7-
LA PALOMA LODGE, DRAKE BAY Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the offshore Caño Island, La Paloma Lodge is built within twelve richly landscaped acres and surrounded by dense tropical rainforest rich with wildlife. Seven deluxe ranchos are spread out amongst lush vegetation maximizing privacy and seclusion. Each rancho is perched on points overlooking the vast Pacific. Prevailing westerly trade winds cool the open-air ranchos creating ideal sleeping conditions lulled by the rhythm of the surf and awakened by the symphony of the rainforest. Each cabanaa has an artistically tiled private bath, expansive balconies with hammocks, varnished hardwood floors, and a breathtaking view of the Pacific. LAPA RIOS LODGE, PUERTO JIMENEZ Lapa Rios is a first class rainforest lodge with a spectacular hilltop setting. Bungalows are situated on a terraced bluff with well-maintained stairway-trails down from the reception and hilltop restaurant. Be prepared for some hill walking! Lapa Rios Lodge offers accommodations in total harmony with its surroundings. Open air bungalows are fully screened with large verandah, private tiled bath/shower and comfortable beds with mosquito netting. There is a swimming pool, gourmet restaurant, full bar and three story observation catwalk. The 1,000 acre Lapa Rios Private Rain Forest Reserve offers excellent wildlife viewing. Miles of private, un-crowdedd trails lead you through a rainforest wilderness with rivers, waterfalls and pools for swimming. Resident naturalist guides have years of experience guiding in the reserve and they point out the fascinating ways that animals and plants co-exist in the rain forest. Enjoy the beach and explore tide pools, or spend the day relaxing and bird watching from your verandah. SIRENA RANGER STATION Sirena Ranger Station has extensive facilities for the support of academic research, park management, and overnight lodging and meals preparation. Unquestionably, Sirena Ranger Station is the best destination for maximizing wildlife viewing in Corcovado. Overnight lodging is dorm style accommodation for up to 20 guests. Each bunkroom has two bunk beds plus an additional single bed and shares a restroom with a very rustic shower, sink, and toilet. Single travelers or couples may get a private room if space permits, but will otherwise a share a room with other visitors. Rooms are spartan, containing only bunk beds and mattresses. We provide linens and towels. -8-
Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling 1-800-345-4453. 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 1-800-345-4453, send an email 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: $300 61-90 days: Initial deposit amount 31-60 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 1-800-345-4453 or email 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 -9-