Costa Rica’s Forests in the Clouds, Verdant Landscapes & Culture

Trip Type: Land Journeys
Costa rica | 12 Days
Starts From:

NZD 12,745.00 /Person

The diverse topography, endemic species, and atmospheric Cloud Forest of Costa Rica sees it thriving with a rich biodiversity. Orchids and bromelia...

Costa Rica’s Forests in the Clouds, Verdant Landscapes & Culture

The diverse topography, endemic species, and atmospheric Cloud Forest of Costa Rica sees it thriving with a rich biodiversity. Orchids and bromeliads flourish and we marvel at the lush landscapes of Sarapiquí and Tortuguero National Park. Encounter wildlife during river cruises and learn about Costa Rica’s coffee production and organic farming practices.

Arrive in San José, the capital of Costa Rica, located in the Central Valley. Thanks to its fertile volcanic soil and year-round spring-like climate, the Central Valley offers perfect conditions for the production of coffee, ornamental plants, and fruits.  San José is home to beautiful buildings, including the colonial-style main post office, the lively Cultural Plaza, and the National Theater, which was modeled after the Paris Opera. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner this evening to meet your fellow travellers.

Accommodation
Two Nights: San Jose, Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Sabana or similar

Meals Included
Lunch

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Today explore the Central Valley with its dramatic landscapes and vibrant botanical beauty. Begin your day with an awe-inspiring visit to the Irazú Volcano. From the summit you will enjoy panoramic views of the valley below. Continue to the Lankester Botanical Garden, a paradise of flora that captures the essence of Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. Stroll through lush gardens adorned with an exquisite collection of orchids, each telling its unique story of adaptation and evolution. Immerse yourself in this masterpiece of nature as you learn about the interplay between plants, pollinators, and the delicate balance that sustains life within the rainforest.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Dinner

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Depart early to La Pavona and transfer by boat to the stunning Tortuguero National Park in the North Caribbean. The park is a sanctuary to 76,937 hectares of rainforest and marine habitat that abounds with wildlife. Explore the amazing natural surroundings on your way to your jungle lodge on Tortuguero's main canal. Watch for colourful birds and crocodiles from aboard your boat. With the help of your guide and boatmen, spot troops of playful monkeys, slow-moving sloths, caimans, sunbathing lizards and much more during your cruise through the lush greenery. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch, then take a walk through the gardens with your guide.

Accommodation
Two Nights: Tortuguero, Mawamba Lodge or similar

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

This morning, before breakfast, enjoy a boat tour of the canals within Tortuguero National Park.  Observe the numerous bird and animal species carrying out their morning rituals. Upon returning to the lodge, enjoy breakfast, then choose to relax by the pool or visit the village of Tortuguero with your local guide. Enjoy a drink in one of the local restaurants before returning to the lodge for lunch. After lunch, take another boat tour through the canals, where you may spot monkeys, sloths, turtles, iguanas and numerous different bird species amid the lush vegetation.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Return to La Pavona by boat, then transfer by coach to Guápiles for lunch. Continue your journey to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, travelling through scenic landscapes and lush tropical forests. The region is awash with the vibrant colors of tropical flora and a symphony of exotic birdlife. We set out on riverboat adventures, encountering fascinating wildlife, including sloths and vibrantly coloured toucans. This haven is home to various nature reserves, protected areas, and national parks, as well as being one of the few sites where you can witness the endangered green macaw. This charming region offers us a glimpse into the local culture, in its vibrant markets and friendly inhabitants.

Accommodation
Two Nights: Puerto Viejo Sarapiquí , La Quinta Sarapiquí Lodge or similar

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Today, visit La Selva Biological Station, located within the lush landscapes of Sarapiquí. Explore the rainforest’s heart with local expert guides who share their intimate knowledge of the flora, fauna, and other ecological wonders of the rainforest. This afternoon, visit an organic farm, nestled within Sarapiquí's verdant landscapes. Learn about the regenerative farming methods used to nurture the land here. See the diverse array of crops being grown here and try some of the produce. In addition, discover the uses of medicinal plants and how they are still being used today.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Journey further through the rainforest and volcanic terrain to arrive at La Fortuna. The charming town of La Fortuna lies at the foot of the perfectly conical Arenal Volcano, near Lake Arenal. Although the volcano is dormant, it is still the highlight of the region, especially on sunny days when you can see the giant in all its amazing splendour. Finish your day with a relaxing soak in one of the area’s hot springs while enjoying the stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. Tonight, visit a wild frog sanctuary. The colourful tree frogs and other rainforest wildlife are most active during the night, making them easier to observe then. Continue along flat trails through the chattering rainforest, past the various ponds harbouring our frog friends.

Accommodation
Two Nights: La Fortuna, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa or similar

Meals Included
Breakfast

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Walk to one of the best viewpoints today and witness the Arenal Volcano and its lava trails. Walk along the well-maintained Mirador Arenal 1968 trail, to explore the lava fields while strolling through vast areas of secondary forest. Enjoy a picnic lunch as you admire these magical views that extend for miles.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

A scenic boat ride offers further perspectives of the Arenal Volcano and the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest. These rare forests occur within tropical or subtropical mountainous environments, where the atmospheric conditions allow for consistent cloud cover. Cloud forests host many endemic species, as their unique climates and specialised ecosystems create habitats not found anywhere else on Earth. Be on the lookout for lichens, orchids and bromeliads, as well as the famous quetzal bird, as you explore the dense primary cloud forest. This afternoon, visit the Monteverde Orchid Garden, a haven of botanical beauty tucked within Monteverde's lush rainforest. Discover diverse orchids and learn about their cultivation. Also, see rare and endemic species and breathtaking hybrids.

Accommodation
Two Nights: Monteverde, Poco a Poco Monteverde Hotel or similar

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Today, enjoy a sustainable agriculture tour at Madre Tierra Farm. Learn about the responsible farming practices observed here, amid the captivating landscapes of Monteverde. Explore the fields and verdant gardens that supply the farm with fresh produce and learn about the organic cultivation, as well as the farm's commitment to preserving the environment, from composting to natural pest control. Enjoy lunch here before taking time at leisure this afternoon.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Dinner

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

This morning, visit Santa Elena Reserve to see giant tree ferns, bamboo and palm trees, as well as moss-covered liana vines which dangle from the canopy. Return to San José this afternoon and enjoy a Farewell Dinner this evening.

Accommodation
San José, Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Sabana or similar

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

Be transferred to the airport after breakfast for your flight home.

Meals Included
Breakfast

Location
San Jose , Costa rica

  • Travel with a small group of up to 20 guests, escorted by an expert Botanical Guide
  • Includes 11 nights’ accommodation in centrally located four- to five-star hotels, return private transfers from door to door, tipping and porterage, plus 25 meals and select beverages
  • Relax aboard a comfortable coach with an experienced and informative Tour Manager
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • See the unique flora and fauna of Costa Rica’s rainforests and cloud forests
  • Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of Costa Rica and learn about the culture of the country
  • Spend time in Tortuguero National Park, viewing its plants and wildlife
  • Learn about the coffee growing industry and farming practices of the country
  • Group size: 15 to 25 guests
  • Some excursions may require a high level of mobility and fitness
  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Fitness rating: High

Departing

Finishing

Availability

Room Type: TWIN
Adult Price: NZD 12,745.00
Room Type: DOUBLE
Adult Price: NZD 12,745.00
Room Type: SINGLE
Adult Price: NZD 17,145.00
Provided by
APT
Reference Code:
BTCR12
Trip Location
Trip Starts:
San Jose Return, Costa rica
Trip Finishes:
Costa rica
Countries Visited:
Costa rica
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Destination Details
Costa rica | 12 Days

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