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.
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 begins with a scenic drive along the 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 raft 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 is spent hiking in the area to fully appreciate the splendour of the Arenal Volcano. During the hike, we will see many kinds of plants, birds and other animal species that call the rainforest home. Through private trails into the primary forest - a unique experience surrounded by a great variety of flora and fauna of breathtaking beauty. The exact hiking route will depend upon the group but will be a full days hike. We end the day with dinner and a soak at the Tabacon Hot Springs Resort, and if the night is clear, we get the unique opportunity to see the red glow of the volcano’s molten lava from the relaxing thermal waters. (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
2008: Apr 26-May03 , Jun 07-14, Jul 27-Aug 03, Aug 23-30, Sep 06-13, Nov 15-22, Dec 26-Jan 02. Trip dates in green are low season.
All dates are guaranteed departures. We will open a new date with a minimum of 4 people.
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 GBP / USD 2008:
Off Peak Period: GBP518 - GBP586 / USD1100 Peak Season: GBP663 - GBP700 / USD1320
Single Supplement: GBP100 / 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: GBP200 / USD400 each person in your party.
Balance Due: by the 60th day prior to the start date. Email for availability
