Between Jungle, Beaches and Volcanos

Meet the local Spanish-English speaking driver at your hotel reception and travel to the Tortuguero pier in a semi shared transfer (only travellers staying at the same lodge as you in Tortuguero).

Arrive in the town of Guápiles and have breakfast at a local restaurant before taking a boat to Tortuguero, winding through the canals in the heart of the rainforest.

Arrive at the lodge for lunch.

Tortuguero is Costa Rica's little Amazon, its dense rainforest is home to incredible flora and fauna, ensuring a complete change of scenery. The Tortuguero site is part of the Ramsar Convention's wetland protection program, with a particular focus on waterbird habitats.

In the afternoon, you will set off to explore the small Caribbean village of Tortuguero.

The late afternoon is free to enjoy the facilities and stroll around the area.

OPTIONAL : Travel to Tortuguero by air !
Treat yourself to a scheduled domestic flight and see the beauty of Costa Rica from a different angle. In addition to magnificent scenery as you fly over the dense tropical jungle (flight time 30-40 minutes), you'll avoid having to wake up early the day after your arrival and save yourself a long road trip!

Supplement: from AUD 421/person and AUD 281/child under 12 years old.

OPTIONAL: night excursion to watch green turtles lay their eggs!
(BETWEEN JULY AND OCTOBER – BOOK ON SITE)

Between July and October, numerous green turtles come to lay their eggs on the beaches of Tortuguero National Park. This is an exceptional spectacle that is not to be missed! For the well-being of the turtles, this activity is highly regulated by the authorities and can only be done with a specialized guide. The activity takes place at night and cannot be booked in advance. Please contact the reception desk at your lodge upon arrival to make a reservation.

Supplement: approximately AUD 117/person (the exact amount will be confirmed by the lodge)

Day Highlight: visit to the village of Tortuguero

Hotel/Other Details: Mawamba Lodge 3* Superior

Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner

Breakfast at the lodge. Boat trip to visit the canals of Tortuguero National Park during the day to discover nature (the schedule of visits is organised by the lodge based on the authorisation given by the national park). Frequent stops to observe a wide variety of birds, monkeys, crocodiles and caimans...

Return to your lodge. Walk along the lodge's trails to discover its flora and fauna. Your guide will familiarize you with the inhabitants of this lush secondary forest (boots and ponchos available on site if necessary). Lunch. Free afternoon to enjoy the lodge's facilities (swimming pool, etc.) or optional activities on site: fishing, kayaking, additional tour of the canals, cocoa and chocolate tour, Cerro Tortuguero...

Day Highlight: - Boat trip through the canals of Tortuguero National Park - Walk along the lodge's trails

Hotel/Other Details: Mawamba Lodge 3* Sup

Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner

Return to La Pavona by boat, then shared transfer (only for travellers who have stayed at the same lodge as you) to Guápiles, with lunch included at a local restaurant.

You will then receive your rental car on site.

Continue towards the southern Caribbean. You will pass through Siquirres and the port city of Limón before reaching the coast, where you will find the villages of Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, Manzanillo, and more. 

A unique atmosphere awaits you in this small fishing village on the Caribbean coast, characterised by its multicultural vibe
and calypso and reggae music, which stem from Afro-Caribbean culture.

Hotel/Other Details: Le Cameleon Boutique 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

This morning, visit the Jaguar Rescue Centre animal sanctuary with a local English-speaking guide. During this visit, you will meet some of the center’s temporary and permanent residents and learn about their individual stories. You will also learn about the challenges and issues surrounding wildlife protection in Costa Rica. As the center receives no government funding, the entrance fees charged for visits and the proceeds from the small souvenir shop are its only sources of income.

For the rest of the day, you could head to the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the coast, where Playa Chiquita, Playa Cocles and Playa Punta Uva await you.

On foot, by renting a bike or by tuk-tuk, which is the most common transport in the area, take a relaxing break between sunbathing sessions in one of the local restaurants and treat yourself to a cocktail or a refreshing drink.

OPTIONAL: Guided tour of Cahuita National Park.
In addition to being an example of cooperation between the local community and government authorities (the management of the park is shared between these two entities), Cahuita National Park is a joyful biodiversity! After passing through the small town of Cahuita, we'll take a path along the Caribbean Sea through the jungle, which will take us to Playa Blanca, a beautiful beach with white sand and crystal clear water where you can relax. On the way to the beach, keep your eyes wide open and look up, you can observe sloths, capuchins, iguanas, raccoons, and snakes! Tropical fruit snacks on the beach, and Caribbean lunch in a restaurant in Cahuita.
Supplement:

Self-guided tour: Voluntary donation at the entrance of the park (we recommend minimum AUD 12 per person)
Private Tour (ENG/ES): AUD 234 per person / AUD 187 child from 3 to 10 years old

OPTIONAL: Day to discover the traditions of the Bribri indigenous community

Drive to the Bribri Indigenous Reserve, in the Talamanca Mountains. Arrive at the Bribri cultural center, 15 minutes from the center of the eponymous village, where you will meet a Bribri healer, who will take you to the forest to discover medicinal plants, and ancestral techniques for the manufacture of natural fibers and dyes used for the manufacture of clothes, jewelry and crafts.
You will then get to know one of the most important plants for Bribri cultivation, and in general for pre-Columbian crops throughout the continent: cocoa. The healer will explain in detail the process of processing cocoa beans: cultivation, harvesting, fermentation, drying, grinding and all its uses in Bribri cultivation. After making your mouth water, a tasting of the finished product will of course be on the program! To whet your appetite for lunch, you can try your hand at traditional archery, then it's time to sit down to eat. You will enjoy a delicious lunch prepared over a wood fire and served in a banana leaf.
After lunch, we'll take a digestive walk through the jungle, to a waterfall with refreshing waters where you can take a swim. Note: The order and content are subject to change depending on weather conditions.

Supplement (ENG/ES): AUD 234 per adult or child (duration approx. 4h30)
It is also possible to spend a night in a Bribri community to extend the experience and deepen your discovery of the Bribri culture. Contact us!

OPTIONAL: Caribbean cooking class The cultural mix between the indigenous peoples of Talamanca and the Jamaican community who emigrated to Costa Rica at the beginning of the 20th century for the construction of the railway, gave the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica colors and especially flavors that could not be found anywhere else in the country! And what flavors!! Women from the community will teach you how to prepare the best Caribbean dishes, as they have been prepared on site for generations, using local ingredients: coconut milk, thyme, chili, ginger, etc. Once finished in the kitchen, you will of course be able to taste the result of your hard work! Enjoy your meal! Available for lunch or dinner.

Supplement (ENG/ES): AUD 199 per adult or child (minimum age to participate in the activity: 6 years old).

Day Highlight: Visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center animal sanctuary

Hotel/Other Details: Le Cameleon Boutique 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Departure to the north-east of the country, to Sarapiquí, a rich agricultural region (pineapple, heart of palm, pejibaye, guanabana...). It is a stage on the road to Arenal that allows you to cut the travel time but which also offers many nature reserves, such as the La Selva Biological Station or La Tirimbina, various and varied activities ranging from outdoor walking, sports activities or even agro-tourism.

OPTIONAL: Visit to a heart of palm plantation Stop at a heart of palm plantation. Doña Maria, the owner of the plantation, will show you around the property and explain everything about the process of growing the heart of palm. You will then taste some recipes created by Doña Maria, all based on fresh heart of palm! Important: Your guide for this activity will be Doña Maria herself or one of her daughters, and they only speak Spanish. 

Supplement:
Tour and Tasting (ESP): AUD 105 per adult and AUD 58 per child from 4 to 10 years old 
Tour and lunch (ESP): AUD 152 per adult and AUD 82 per child from 4 to 10 years old

OPTIONAL: Rafting of the Sarapiqui River.
After a safety briefing and the explanation of the basic principles of rafting, it is a 3-hour raft trip through the rapids of the beautiful lower part of the Sarapiquí River and its tributaries of the Braulio Carrillo National Park that awaits you. An impressive landscape with incredible wildlife make this trip an unforgettable adventure. Professional guides will accompany you throughout the descent. It is not necessary to have rafting experience to carry out this activity. In case during the activity and lunch included. Subject to climatic conditions. 
Supplement (ENG/ESP): AUD 222 per person 
Restrictions: be over 8 years old, know how to swim, not suffer from a medical condition preventing the practice of rafting (back problems, heart problems, etc.)

OPTIONAL: Visit to the La Selva Biological Station.
The reserve belongs to the OET (Organisation for Tropical Studies) and has more than 50 km of trails dedicated to scientific research. OET is a non-profit NGO that provides a platform for education, research and the responsible use of natural resources in the tropics. Visiting the site is one of the ways to contribute to the protection of Costa Rica's rainforests. It is a privileged destination and recognized worldwide by ornithologists and nature lovers. 
Supplement:
Private excursion (short tour 3h) (min 2 pers.) (ENG/ES): AUD 164 per adult
Private excursion (long tour 6h) (min 2 pers.) (ENG/ES): AUD 199 per adult or child (min. 2 people)

Hotel/Other Details: La Quinta Sarapiqui Lodge 3*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today your journey takes you to the north of the country to reach La Fortuna, a city located at the foot of the Arenal volcano.

Costa Rica is known to be home to about 116 volcanoes among them and surely one of the most impressive, the Arenal Volcano. The latter, despite its age of 7,500 years, is rather well preserved since it is the youngest volcano in the country. Culminating at 1,630 metres, this stratovolcano has not been active since the end of 2010 but it is a delight for photographers (when it is uncovered) as well as "amateurs" or "aficionados" of thermal waters.

OPTIONAL: Relaxing evening and dinner in the thermal waters of Baldi, the most family-friendly!

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa is a family-friendly resort offering 25 pure mineralized hot or temperate pools (4 of which are at room temperature), a large natural sauna and spa for Jacuzzi-style use, three minibars, two gourmet restaurants, 3.5 kilometers of paths and 3.4 hectares of picturesque tropical gardens. The entire complex enjoys a privileged location with the majestic Arenal Volcano as a backdrop.

Supplement: Access between 09:00 and 22:00 and buffet dinner (or lunch): AUD 152 per person and AUD 105 per child under 11 years old.

The thermal baths of Ecotermales, the most intimate! Built in total harmony with nature, there is a peaceful and serene atmosphere in the Ecotermales thermal baths. In the very heart of the rainforest, the various hot springs have been designed with the environment in mind. You will have the pleasure of relaxing with a breathtaking view of the Arenal Volcano while listening to the singing of the birds and the sound of the wind in the trees. To guarantee the serenity of the place, the capacity of the establishment is limited to 100 people per day: it is important to book in advance! 
Supplement: Access between 10:00 and 16:00 or between 17:00 and 22:00 and buffet dinner: AUD 199 per person and AUD 129 per child from 5 to 11 years old.

Hotel/Other Details: Arenal Manoa and Hot Springs 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

This morning free walk without guide on the suspension bridges of La Fortuna (supplement of AUD 58/pers for a group visit with an English-speaking guide): this one takes place in the private nature reserve of 250Ha of primary tropical rainforest for an observation of the fauna and flora at the canopy level; different viewpoints on the volcano. 3 km of easy trails, accessible to all. You will cross 15 bridges on different heights measuring from 5 to 100 meters.

OPTIONAL: Arenal National Park Lava Flow Tour (Arenal Trail 1968)! About 6km of trails at the foot of the Arenal Volcano will take you through the dense rainforest. You will be able to observe how the variations in the acidity of the soil due to volcanic activity, cause sudden changes in vegetation, and shape the landscape in a surprising way! Halfway through, you will come to the ancient lava flows, which cut the forest in two. From the dried lava mounds, you'll have a breathtaking view of the volcano on one side, and Lake Arenal on the other. Supplement:
Private Guided Tour (ENG/ES): AUD 374 per person and AUD 199 per child under 12 years old.

OPTIONAL: Meet Don Hubert on his organic farm! Local Spanish-speaking guide only – English speaking on request, cannot be guaranteed. 

Don Hubert is a former traditional farmer, converted to organic farming, then, through the twists and turns of life, to ecotourism. His greatest pleasure is now to introduce visitors to his little piece of paradise as he calls it, understand: his farm and his plantations! Whether you spend a few hours or a full day at Don Hubert's house, your visit will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip! 

Visit to the fruit and vegetable plantations, the medicinal plant garden, and the sugar cane mill! AUD 152 per person and AUD 105 per child from 4 to 10 years old. LUNCH INCLUDED. 
Visit the plantations of tropical fruits and vegetables like pineapple, bananas, cassava, and others so exotic that you will definitely discover them for the first time! You will then take a tour of the medicinal herb garden. Have you ever wondered what stevia, quinine, cinnamon or turmeric look like in their raw state? You will have the answer here! Then we will pass by the sugar cane mill where you will taste.

Visit of the cocoa plantation and workshop! AUD 129 per person and AUD 94 per child from 4 to 10 years old Visit to the farm's cocoa plantation. Don Hubert will explain the smallest details of the process of transforming the cocoa bean into chocolate. You will then have the opportunity to make a chocolate bite yourself using pure cocoa and the farm's aromatic herbs (mint, cinnamon, etc.). 

Other services and activities available on the farm: 

Visit to the fruit and vegetable plantations, medicinal plant garden, and sugar cane mill + Visit to the cocoa plantation and workshop: AUD 164 per person and AUD 105 per child (4-10 years old) with LUNCH INCLUDED Typical lunch at the farm: AUD 58 per person.

OPTIONAL: Zipline course! Costa Rica is the world pioneer when it comes to recreational ziplining! If you are an adrenaline junkie, you cannot miss this activity that will take you to the treetops along cables up to 700 meters in length at a height of more than 250 meters! Supplement (ENG/ESP): AUD 281 per person / AUD 187 per child from 5 to 11 years old.

OPTION: Mountain bike ride around Lake Arenal! This leisurely ride will take you as close as possible to nature and the beautiful volcano and Lake Arenal. On the Sky Wild Bikes tour, you'll enjoy the incredible views of Costa Rica's most iconic volcano. The route is 13 km (8miles) and will circle the shores of Lake Arenal. Along the way, you will pass through nearby villages, learn about the local history and the unique history of the volcano and its surroundings. On the route, we'll also cross several rivers that will be the perfect moments to cool off a little and admire the beauty of the landscapes of this destination. The shores of the lake and the surrounding forests are rich in flora and fauna. 
Supplement: 
Private (ENG/ES): AUD 374 per person

OPTION: Quad Bike Adventure Walk through the pastures with the Arenal volcano in the background, which you can observe all the way from unique viewpoints, until you arrive at Lake Arenal. From there, you'll continue through the rainforest and observe the area's rich flora and fauna along the way. A snack of fresh fruit on the way. Duration: Approximately 2h15min – group of 2 to 18 pax 
Supplement:
Private (EN/ES): AUD 444 per person or AUD 515 (for a two-person quad bike = 1 driver + 1 passenger) – minimum 2 quad bike rentals or 4 pax. 

For families with children under 5 years old, it is possible to go Side by Side (Quad from 4 to 5 seats with a roof): (includes child seats): from 2 pax: AUD 596 (and from the 3rd passenger AUD94/pers extra) 

IMPORTANT: Before starting the tour, you will go through a small training circuit where the service provider will judge if you are fit to drive. This remains at the discretion of the service provider (non-refundable activity if the latter considers that you do not have the skills to drive the quad bike safely.

OPTIONAL: Kayaking tour on Lake Arenal 

Don't forget your camera because this 2-hour tour of the second largest lake in Central America will give you the best views of the Arenal Volcano! You will be able to see several species of birds such as the kingfisher, the heron, or the Aninga. You will also certainly hear the characteristic cry of the howler monkey coming from the shores of the lake. We will start the walk south of the lake with a short briefing on safety measures. We will then explore small islands and secluded coves, and take a break along the way to enjoy a snack of fresh fruit.
Supplement: Guaranteed activity with a minimum of 3 participants) 
Private (ENG/ES): AUD 304 per person (ages 5 and up)

Day Highlight: Free walk on the suspension bridges

Hotel/Other Details: Arenal Manoa and Hot Springs 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Drive to the beaches of Guanacaste towards the small seaside resort of Samara after passing the village of Nicoya.

If you are looking for tranquility, Playa Samara is the place for you. This beach is lined with palm trees, and many animals live in the area. For example, Cangrejal Bay has a reef that attracts rays and tropical fish. To the north, Playa Buena Vista is a nesting site for sea turtles. The mangroves of the Buena Vista estuary are home to crocodiles and herons. On the island of Chora, you'll also see pink sand and seabirds.

Less than a 10-minute drive from Samara, Puerto Carillo has a huge wild beach without any beachfront construction. This is a step not to be missed!!

Hotel/Other Details: Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

You will have the opportunity to do many activities (not included), or enjoy the large sandy beach of Playa Samara, or Playa Carrillo, a nearby beach lined with palm trees. You can also explore the south of the Nicoya Peninsula, such as the small surfing villages of Nosara or Santa Teresa.

OPTIONAL: Catamaran ride at sunset!

Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation aboard a catamaran that will take you to the calm waters of the Pacific
Ocean at the end of the day. The boat will sail off a small island, around which you can snorkel and watch the
underwater hustle and bustle before the sun goes down. Or you can simply stay on deck, and enjoy the calm of the
ocean, the background music, and the colors of the sunset while sipping a fruit juice or a cold beer.
Duration about 4 hours. Starts around 2:15 pm. Minimum 6 participants – Maximum 60 participants
Supplement:
Private guided tour (ES/ENG): AUD 3275 from 1 to 25 people.

OPTIONAL: Boat tour off Samara! Hop aboard a boat to explore the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of the small village of Samara. After watching dolphins, sea turtles, rays, seabirds, and maybe even humpback whales (between August and November) from the boat, you can explore the underwater life on your own with a mask and snorkel. This tour is suitable for all ages. Tour at 8:15 am. Duration of the activity 3h30 Capacity: Minimum 4 people, maximum 60 people.
SUPPLEMENT: 
Private guided tour (ES/ENG): AUD 2339 from 1 to 25 people.

OPTIONAL: Kayak or Stand-up Paddle and snorkelling in Isla Chora!

Just off the coast of Samara is Chora Island, a haven of white sand and turquoise water. On this tour, we'll kayak or stand-up paddleboard to Chora Island and then Samara Beach, where we'll dive into the water, snorkel and discover Costa Rica's rich marine life. If you wish, you can relax and soak up the sun on the island's deserted beach while enjoying a selection of drinks and fresh fruit. Accessible to all audiences - your guide gives you a brief lesson in safety and the use of kayaks and SUP boards on the beach before you set off. 

Tour at low tide. Duration of the activity 3h00 
Capacity: Kayak from 4 to 75 years old Minimum 2 people, maximum 40 people. 
SUP Paddle from 10 to 60 years old Minimum 2 people, maximum 20 people. 
SUPPLEMENT: 
Paddle Guided Tour (ES/ENG): AUD 152 adult / AUD 129 child 5-10 years old

OPTIONAL: Hike in the Werner Sauter Biological Reserve! 
An experienced local guide will take you on the trails of the Werner Sauter Biological Reserve, one of the only private reserves in the region, located in Samara. 
The reserve consists of tropical dry forest and is one of the most vulnerable and rare biomes in Central America. This type of forest is undoubtedly home to one of the most interesting and complex ecosystems in the region; The natural scarcity of water has allowed wildlife to evolve and thrive in an environment with fewer nutrients than other rainforests, while retaining the ability to endure six months of intense tropical rain. 

Tour 6:30 am and 2:30 pm. Duration of the activity 3h00 
Capacity: Minimum 2 people, maximum 20 people.
Guided Bundled Tour (ES/ENG): Rates available on request.

OPTIONAL: Kayak or stand-up paddle in the mangrove! Explore the waters and mangroves of the Samara Beach area on this guided kayak or stand-up paddle boarding. Paddle along the Ora River, through the mangrove tunnels, towards Camaronal Beach. Be on the lookout for birds along the way. At the end of the activity, you'll enjoy refreshments while listening to your local guide tell you more about the area's ecosystem. Duration of the activity 3h00 Capacity: Minimum 4 people, maximum 40 people. 
SUPPLEMENT: Guided Bundled Tour (ES/ENG): Rates available on request.

OPTIONAL: Night excursion to observe the turtles laying their eggs! (Between 01 June and 30 January) An experienced local guide will accompany you to observe this extraordinary natural phenomenon in complete safety and respect. He will explain how to observe and approach the turtles without disturbing them, and explain the details of the life and reproductive cycle of sea turtles. September and October are the best months for turtles to lay eggs, but you can see them between June and the end of January. 
Tour at medium tide. Duration of the activity 4h00 
Capacity: Minimum 4 people, maximum 40 people. 
SUPPLEMENT: Guided Combined Tour (ES/ENG): Rates available on request.

OPTIONAL: Horseback riding! Treat yourself to a horseback ride, between the ocean and the mountains, along rivers, and certainly accompanied by some wildlife along the way. No experience is necessary. 
Supplements: Duration 2h30 Guided Bundled Tour (ES/ENG): Rates available on request.

OPTIONAL: Visit to a Scarlet Macaw Refuge and Breeding Center! Just south of Playa Carrillo is Punta Islita, home to the Macaw Recovery Network (formerly The Ara Project), a conservation organization dedicated to the survival of Costa Rican scarlet macaws. Previously extinct in this area of Guanacaste, the scarlet macaw is now back! The Punta Islita site is home to a sanctuary and breeding center, where rescued or injured birds, which cannot be released, are kept for breeding purposes. Their young are then released into the wild. More than 50 scarlet macaws were released, creating the now famous wild scarlet macaw reserve, a must-see during your visit to the Nicoya Peninsula. Duration about 3 hours. Activity at 3:00 pm. Capacity: Minimum 4 people, maximum 24 people. 
Supplements: Guided Bundled Tour (ES/ENG): Rates available on request.

Hotel/Other Details: Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Departure to the town of Monteverde on the slopes of the Cordillera de Tilarán, first passing through the Pan-American Highway and then through a rather picturesque road.

Monteverde was founded in the mid-twentieth century by American Quakers who immigrated at the time of the Vietnam War because they shared Costa Rica's pacifist values.

It is a cloud forest nestled at an altitude of 1,400 meters and is a small paradise for nature lovers with an extraordinary diversity of flora.

OPTIONAL: Night excursion in the cloud forest of the Monteverde Biological Sanctuary!
Armed with flashlights and accompanied by a specialized guide, you will discover the secret and silent world of the
cloud forest after dark! Sloths, armadillos, porcupines, opossums, coatis, and kinkajous, as well as many insects,
reptiles, amphibians, and nocturnal birds, come alive at this time of day in search of food.
Supplement: Departure 5:30 pm – duration about 2 hours
Private Guided Tour (ES/ENG): AUD 211 per perso,n adults and children

Hotel/Other Details: Senda Monteverde 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Morning to visit one of the many private reserves in the area, or do another optional activity.

OPTIONAL: Hike to El Tigre Waterfall Reserve!

This is the most complete option, which will allow you to discover the forest without a guide (5km), passing by the 4 large waterfalls, the 10 suspension bridges! Refreshing swimming in the waterfalls possible. In the last part of the trail (3km), at the top of the hill, you can ride a horse, or if you prefer, we have a 4x4 safari car that you can use instead. At the end of the tour, you will be treated to a delicious typical lunch. We have vegetarian and vegan options:)

As an option on your route, add adrenaline with an unforgettable moment: A little adrenaline to spice up the day with a zip line of a different kind... You will cross the canopy by bike .... On your bike, you will have an extraordinary view of the forest with a magnificent view from above. From 15 years old.
Supplement:
Self-guided tour only single hike (8 km without lunch or transport by horse or 4x4): AUD 105 per person (AUD 82 child 6-12 years old)
Self-guided tour of El Tigre Waterfall (description above which includes lunch and transport): AUD 199 per person (AUD 164 child 6-18 years old)
Zipline Bike Supplement (cannot be done independently of a single or full hiking tour): AUD 105 per person.

OPTIONAL: Visit the children's eternal forest in Monteverde!

The latter exists thanks to the help of children and adults from all over the world who took part in the movement called BEN, this fundraising campaign started in Sweden and the United States in 1987 and has spread all over the world. Already today, 44 countries have participated in the purchase and protection of this land. About 60 species of amphibians, 101 species of reptiles, 425 species of birds and 121 species of mammals have been recorded, representing 50.5% of the total terrestrial vertebrate species in Costa Rica. It also protects the habitat of the jaguar, an important fauna of birds, trees, orchids, bromeliads, insects, reptiles and of course examples of amphibians unique to the country.
Supplement:
Private guided tour (min. 2pers.) (ES/ENG): AUD 140 per person (AUD 105 child 6-12 years old).

OPTIONAL: Visit to a coffee plantation with local English-speaking guide (subject to availability) in Monteverde!

The tour takes place at the "Integral Life" farm, certified by several national ecological certifications including the Bandera Azul Ecologica and the Friends of the Earth program. During an interactive tour, we cover all stages of coffee production and final processing, with a focus on the sustainability of fine coffee production, their relationship with nature and their importance in the sustainability process, and its importance in the development of local communities. The tour provides a detailed explanation of coffee agronomy, harvesting, processing and roasting and ends with a guided tasting at the Monteverde Coffee Lab, a laboratory dedicated to the study of the evolution of coffee. Coffee Lab, a laboratory dedicated to innovation in the field of specialty coffees.
Supplements: Rates available on request.

OPTIONAL: Ride on the suspension bridges in Monteverde!
In Monteverde, it's not just birds that have the privilege of touching the treetops. On the suspension bridges we can also experience the cloud forest from a different perspective and see the animals in their natural habitat. This circuit of about 3 kilometers offers incredible views of the vast nature, both in the heights of the forest and on the trails that connect each bridge to each other.
Supplements:
Self-guided tour : AUD 152 per adult / AUD 105 child 4-11 years old.

OPTIONAL: Zipline course through the Monteverde Cloud Forest!
On this tour, you'll walk through the cloud forest canopy, suspended from cables, using specialized equipment. This tour not only combines the thrills of one of Costa Rica's safest and most popular adventures.The route includes 13 cables, including a 1 km long cable, and 15 platforms. The total length of the circuit is 4 km. It is suitable for people of all ages, although it is not recommended for people with certain medical conditions (cadial problems, recent operations, etc.), vertigo, or pregnant people, for safety reasons.
Supplements:Rates available on request.

Hotel/Other Details: Senda Monteverde 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Your adventure then continues to the center of the Pacific coast. Ideally located, you will have easy access to all the activities of the area: among others, you are close to the Marino Bahia Ballena National Park, the Corcovado National Park and the Manuel Antonio National Park. Each of them is recognized for their great natural wealth. 

Along the way, we recommend a short stop on the Tarcoles Bridge to observe its impressive crocodiles.

OPTIONAL (on the way): Visit of the Carara National Park!
Carara National Park is located on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, and is best known for being home to one of
the largest populations of wild scarlet macaws in the country. Carara is considered the last remnant of transitional
forest in the country, as it lies between the dry forest of the Mesoamerican region and the tropical rainforest
characteristic of the South Pacific. This protected wilderness area is considered a living laboratory where the structure
and functioning of tropical ecosystems and the relationships between them can be studied.
Supplement:
Self-guided tour: AUD 58 per person (book in advance).

OPTIONAL (on the way): Crocodile watching boat tour!
This boat tour takes place on the Tárcoles River in Costa Rica's central Pacific and allows you to get up close and personal with American crocodiles of all sizes and observe a multitude of exotic birds. Enjoy the spectacular rainforest scenery and cruise through the dense channels of the Guacalillo Mangrove Forest to spot jungle wildlife, like iguanas, basilisks, monkeys, and more! LUNCH INCLUDED
1h30 boat tour (from 2 to 40 participants)
Supplement: 
AUD 160 per person (or AUD 105/pers without lunch).

Hotel/Other Details: Si como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day to discover the Manuel Antonio region (entrance to the park for a self-guided visit, without guide, included)! Lazing on the beach or by the pool, walking in the national park, or heading south to the Uvita region, to explore the forest in search of waterfalls or climb aboard a boat to observe the marine fauna!

OPTIONAL: Boat trip to observe marine wildlife in the Marino Ballena National Park
Marino Ballena Park is home to one of Costa Rica's most diverse marine ecosystems and is one of the best places in the world for whale watching between July and late October, when humpback whales from the Southern Hemisphere migrate from Antarctica to Marino Ballena National Park in Costa Rica to breed and raise their calves. From December to February, humpback whales from the northern hemisphere come to Costa Rica.
The boat departs from Punta Uvita beach after a safety briefing from the local guide. During the tour, you'll explore Marino Ballena National Park in search of the majestic humpback whales (depending on the season) and other marine life such as Pacific spotted dolphins, hog-nose dolphins, seabirds, and sea turtles, which can be seen year-round in the park. During the dry season (December to May), we'll make a snorkeling stop around the "Whale Rock", a small island so called because of the noise the wind makes when entering the caves and cavities of the island. During the rainy season (June to November), the visibility does not allow for snorkeling, but you can still enjoy a dip in the ocean. You will pass by the incredible natural formation of the whale's tail and the beach of Ventanas to see the wonderful sea caves sculpted by the ocean.
Note: Motion sickness medication is recommended for this tour.
Supplement:
Guided tour (ENG/ES) combined: AUD 246 per person (between 3 and 10 years old – AUD 164 per person).

OPTIONAL: Discover the different waterfalls in the region!
Nauyaca Falls is located in a canyon that is about eighty meters wide. One of the falls is forty-five meters high in free fall and the other twenty meters in stepped fall, forming at the foot of it, a basin of one thousand square meters and six meters deep. From the entrance, the trail is 6 km to the falls, and 6 km back. In the dry season, the bus can go down to the car park located 2 km from the entrance. In this case, the walk is 4 km each way, and the trail has some challenging sections. If the bus can't go down to the parking lot in the rainy season, the way back is very steep. We recommend a good physical condition.
Entrance fee (on site): AUD 94 pp. Parking fees may apply.

El Pavon Waterfall is a hidden gem in the jungle, just south of Ojochal. The waterfall itself is about 10 meters high, but what makes El Pavon unique is the large rock that sits in the middle of the waterfall and is perfectly located, as if it had been placed by a giant or an alien life form. The pool at the foot of this spectacular scene varies in size and depth depending on local rainfall and river flow, but even with a low flow, it measures about 10 meters by 10 meters and is 2 meters deep in places. Downstream, there is a natural waterfront and a small swimming pool. The hike to the falls is about 100 meters on a jungle trail that is mostly flat. Suddenly, the canopy and jungle recede and a beautiful pool and waterfall emerge. Free. Parking fees may apply (not included).

Cascada Verde located in the middle of the rainforest along a clear cascading river, this waterfall offers stunning views, refreshing waters, and fun for all! This place is equipped with a natural slide, a 4-meter cliff, several swimming holes, and a flowing river. The hikes to Cascada Verde are very easy and suitable for hikers/kids of all fitness levels. Free. Parking fees may apply (not included).

Day Highlight: Visit to Manuel National Park, Antonio

Hotel/Other Details: Si como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge 4*

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Continue to Juan Santamaria International Airport.

Drop-off of the vehicle at your rental agency's branch near the airport; You can reach it thanks to a free semi-collective shuttle.

You must arrive at the boarding counter 3:00 hours before the take-off time.

Meal Plan: Breakfast