Natural Splendours of Costa Rica

Natural Splendours of Costa Rica

Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the small country of Costa Rica is one of the most ecologically diverse places on earth. This journey visits some of the major national parks in the country and explores the astonishing variety of wildlife and contrasting habitats found here, including rainforest, cloud forest, volcanoes, lakes and canals.

The impressive cone-shaped Arenal volcano, until recently one of the regions' most active, is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Attractions to enjoy nearby include the hot springs, canopy walkways in the treetops and boat trips on Lake Arenal, as well as along the Rio Frio and the Caño Negro wetlands for superb birding or in the Caño Negro wetlands. 

Tortuguero National Park is located on the remote northern Caribbean coast and is accessible only by boat or plane. Green turtles lay their eggs on the beaches here between July and September, while leatherbacks can be seen from March to June.

The mist-shrouded Monteverde cloud forest and the adjacent, but smaller, Santa Elena reserve are home to a profusion of plant life and many species of butterflies, insects and birds, including resplendent quetzals. Reached along unpaved roads, these two reserves offer opportunities to hike along trails or stroll through the treetops on canopy walkways.

What's Included:

• Small group size - average 16 people (max 18)
• 3- & 4-star accommodation
• Flexible - extensions & flight upgrades available
• Direct international flights with British Airways (via Miami in April)
• Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
• Experienced local tour manager
• 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 2 dinners
• Guided sightseeing & entrance fee

Day 1: London - San José

Fly from London (regional connections available) to San José with British Airways. Transfer to the Crowne Plaza Corobici Hotel (or similar) for 2 nights. (B)

Day 2: Tortuguero

In the morning, visit Poas or Irazú Volcano and see its impressive crater and surroundings. (B)

Day 3: Tortuguero

Shared overland transfer to Caño Blanco on the Caribbean coast. Cruise through the canals and backwaters that lead to Tortuguero, looking for birdlife, monkeys, sloths and other wildlife. Stay for 2 nights at Mawamba Lodge. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Tortuguero

Enjoy a full day of shared local excursions. From July to September, an option is available to observe turtles nesting on the beach.(B,L,D)

Day 5: Arenal

Return to Caño Blanco by boat and drive to Arenal, visiting La Selva Biological Station en route. Learn about the scientific and conservation work of the researchers and take a short walk in the protected rainforest surroundings. Stay 2 nights at Arenal Paraiso, with views of Arenal Volcano. (B, L)

Day 6: Caño Negro

Full-day tour to Caño Negro, an important wetland habitat for a range of bird species. (B, L)

Day 7: Lake Arenal - Monteverde

Shared boat across Lake Arenal, taking in the spectacular views of the lake and its surroundings. Continue to Monteverde for 2 nights at the Fonda Vela Hotel. Afternoon visit to the Selvatura Butterfly Garden & Walkways and explore the treetop canopy from its hanging bridges. (B)

Day 8: Monteverde

Morning tour of the Monteverde cloud forest, a habitat for rare flora and fauna, such as the colourful quetzal bird. Afternoon visit to a typical family-run farm to learn about coffee and sugar cane production. (B, L)

Day 9: Sarchí - San José

Return to San José via the town of Sarchí, home to traditional handicrafts and colourfully painted oxcarts, and final overnight. (B)

Day 10: San José - London

Transfer to the airport for a flight to London with British Airways. (B)

Day 11: London

Morning arrival.