Costa Rica: The Classic Tour
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Poas Volcano, Costa Rica
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Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
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Tortuguero, Costa Rica
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Arenal Lake, Costa Rica
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Monteverde Reserve, Costa Rica
As seen on Channel 4’s ‘Escape to Costa Rica’
Costa Rica is sometimes referred to as the “Switzerland of Central America” because of its comfortable lifestyle, peaceful democracy and overwhelming natural beauty. The country’s cast of creatures – ranging from howler monkeys to toucans – are populous and relatively easy to spot throughout this 12 day tour.
Costa Rica is considered one of the world leaders in eco-tourism and there are fewer places on Earth that can offer as many life changing, inspirational and educational experiences. As one of the most bio-diverse areas in the world, it is home to a remarkable variety of habitats including rainforests, mangroves and volcanoes. With picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife, Costa Rica is nature’s paradise.
Dates
Dates on request
Suggested Itinerary by Air
Day 1
Fly to San Jose
Fly from your chosen UK airport to San Jose where you will be met and transferred to your hotel accommodation.
Day 2
Poas Volcano National Park & Doka Estate
This morning, the tour will take you to Poas Volcano, one of the most visited volcanoes in Costa Rica, because of its proximity to San Jose and because of the extensive forest that surrounds the two craters. The park measures 5600 hectares, with an altitude of 2708 metres above sea level. The enormous crater is one of the largest in the world. The National Park offers four different habitats: scarce vegetitation, a stunted forest, a cloud forest, and an area of arrayans. There are well-kept but short trails around the craters and into the forest. Afterwards, you will travel to the Doka Estate where you will hear about the history of the coffee farm, it’s owners and its traditional coffee producing methods. Lunch is included at the Doka Estate.
Day 3
Tortuguero
Following breakfast, transfer from the hotel to La Pavona docks where you will take a boat transfer to the Tortuguero area. The Caribbean coast is home to the beautiful town of Tortuguero and its National Park. This sun drenched zone with its sparsely spaced coastal villages offers a completely laid back and relaxed atmosphere. The culture is vastly different on this coast compared to the rest of the country with its prominent Afro-Caribbean influence notable as well in the delicious cuisine which can be sampled here.
Day 4
Afternoon Boat Tour of Tortuguero National Park Water Canals
Located on the North Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, the Tortuguero National Park is the third most visited in the country and is home to an incredible biological variety, with different habitats, including rainforests, swamps, beaches and lagoons. The beach areas are key nesting grounds for endangered sea Green turtles during the months of July to September. The rivers in the park are home to sensitive populations of manatees, as well as caimans and crocodiles. The forests are home to jaguars, three toed sloths, three species of monkey, Basilisk lizards and frogs also inhabit the area as well as 375 species of bird. There are also more than 400 species of tree and approximately 2200 species of other plant and flower.
Day 5
Arenal
Boat transfer from Tortuguero to Cano Blanco or Pavona docks where you will be transferred onwards by bus to the Arenal area.
Day 6
Arenal
Visit the Hanging Bridges of Arenal which are located within the corridor followed by birds migrating between North and South America. These trails and bridges will bring closer than ever to the birds, the flowers and the lush vegetation of the primary rain forest. You will be able to walk right into the forest, thanks to the imposing hanging bridges and the beautiful trails. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities and hot springs which are 100% natural and rich in mineral salts.
Day 7
Penas Blancas River Tour
This morning, you’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest and experience its peacefulness as we navigate the Penas Blancas River. Monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles and numerous tropical birds can be easily seen during the tour. The fully qualified local guide will share with you education and interesting explanations of the plants and animals which are encountered. Be sure to bring your cameras and binoculars on this tour!
Day 8
Manuel Antonio
Transfer to Manuel Antonio which is set high above the enchanting National Park, boasting amazing views of white sandy beaches, shimmering blue waters and the fresh ocean breeze. Afternoon at leisure and overnight in Manuel Antonio.
Day 9
Manuel Antonio National Park
Morning excursion to explore the National Park of Manuel Antonio. The natural trails in the park will take you to the interior of the forest to observe the variety of flora and fauna, including white faced capuchin, monkeys raccoons, species of rodents and birds. You will also have time to take a dip in the warm waters of the pacific! Afternoon at leisure.
Day 10
Manuel Antonio
Morning at leisure before taking an afternoon catamaran trip down the coast of Manuel Antonio. The tour includes a stop in the beautiful beach of Beizans and the drinks and snacks are included.
Day 11-12
Return back to the UK
Morning transfer to San Jose International Airport for your return flight back to the UK.
Costa Rica General Facts
Weather: Dry Season; from December to April. Wet Season; from May to November. If visits are near forests, there are more chances of wet weather. The sunset in Costa Rica is between 5:30pm and 6:00pm all year round. Water is drinkable at every destination visited in our tour. Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard & American Express US Dollar is the most widely accepted currency.
For more tours in Central and South America, click here:
Picture: Poas Volcano
Greatdays Holidays Limited has an ATOL licence (4279) and all of our air package tours are protected under this licence. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the Civil Aviation Authority will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any monies you have paid to us for an advance booking.
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A group is 10 persons or more. Smaller groups can be accommodated. Picture is for illustrative purposes only. Greatdays Holidays Limited has an ATOL licence (4279) and all of our air package tours are protected under this licence. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the Civil Aviation Authority will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any monies you have paid to us for an advance booking. All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this email are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services).
