An ideal trip for those who want some active adventure, beautiful sights and some time to relax on the beach. Enjoy the excitement of white water rafting on the Pacuare River, hiking and the soothing hot springs at Arenal Volcano, and palm fringed beaches on the Pacific Coast.
From Costa Rica's capital we head into the mountains and raft the Pacuare River before hiking on the slopes of Volcan Arenal. Finishing off with time in the jungle or at the beach. An exciting and fun way to get a good taste of this diverse country and enjoy some relaxation time in addition to trekking and rafting.
Suitable for: the moderately fit, who are conditioned to regular exercise, utilising all muscle groups.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Costa Rica. After welcoming you at San José airport your guide will bring you to a comfortable hotel in the city and take time to answer any questions, meet the group and prepare for your multi-activity adventure trip and learn more about the trekking and rafting. The evening is free to explore San José.
Day 2 Your adventure trip begins with a drive in t he foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the “put in” on the Pacuare River for our two-day white-water rafting adventure. We will run a total of 27 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids exploring the magnificent river valley. This afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, “El Nido del Tigre.” Nestled between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river, take time to explore the lush environment first hand looking out for toucans overhead or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the river. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Today we continue rafting the Pacuare River through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We weave through the exhilarating rapids and point out the intricacies of the rainforest at the river’s edge. Along the way we take time out to do some hiking to spectacular waterfalls and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” and then drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to Arenal Volcano. (B, L)
Day 4 Today we enjoy a beautiful hike through the tropical rainforest, walking for 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges with wonderful panoramic views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We will continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall. We are immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna as we descend through the undergrowth to the base of this 120ft waterfall we take time to enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool. After lunch we take a guided hike through rainforest trails to the main observation viewpoint for the volcano. If the weather is clear it is often possible to see fireworks, molten lava and gas eruptions from the volcano. Late afternoon we relax in mineral hot springs before having a delicious dinner. (B, L, D)
Option 1 The Beach
Days 5 & 6 Manuel Antonio Beach Today we leave Arenal and cross the country to the Pacific Coast and to the treasure chest of natural beauty that is Manuel Antonio, its beaches and nearby world famous Manuel Antonio National Park. The gardens of the hotel meet the soft sand beaches and the ocean, with the entrance to the park just 10 minutes walking distance. Howler, White-face and Squirrel monkey, basilisks, iguanas and land crabs are among the frequent visitors. Either take a few days to relax at the pool or on the beach or if you feel energetic, choose from the options. (B)
Day 7 The morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the beach. At mid-day a local flight takes you back to San José. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San José. (B)
Day 8 We will drive you to the airport for your return flight home. (B)
Option 2 The Cloud Forest
Day 5 Today you can choose from a 4 hour scenic horseback ride from Arenal to Monteverde Cloud Forest with spectacular views of the volcano and the lake. Or take a boat ride across Lake Arenal and then by car to Monteverde (B)
Day 6 There are a variety of optional activities in Monteverde: guided or solo hike through Monteverde or Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, Canopy Tour, a walk around the galleries and coffee houses of Santa Elena, or tour of local cheese factory. (B)
Day 7 Free time in Monteverde in the morning before a three and half hour drive to San Jose. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San José. (B)
Day 8 We will drive you to the airport for your return flight home. (B)
Fixed Date Guaranteed Departures: Nov
15-22, Dec 26-Jan 02, Jan
24-31, Feb 14-21, Feb 28-Mar 07, Apr 25-02 May, Jun
06-13.
Trip dates in
green are low season.
High Seasons: Late March / early April and late November through to early January. Please note that the trips which include Christmas fill up fast, so please book soon. We need plenty of time to get accommodation reserved, it is a very popular time of year.
Wet season (better white water in June through October) The departures in July and August are serious rafting expeditions and are only run as private groups with 4 people minimum.
Ref: CRA
Price Indication Per Person:
Off Peak Period: USD1155 Peak Season: USD1281
Single Supplement: USD190
Basis: Shared accommodation, excluding International airfare.
The base currency is the US Dollar and payments in any other currency may need adjustment for changes in the exchange rate.
Booking Discount: Less GBP25 / USD35 each, if 2 or 3 people book simultaneously. Less GBP45 / USD72 each, if 4 or more people book simultaneously. Special Conditions: To qualify for the booking discount a single payment is required in respect of payments on behalf of all your party.
Deposit: USD400 each person in your party.
Balance Due: by the 60th day prior to the start date. Email for availability
