Costa Rica Beach and Jungle Retreat

It is quite a compact city, so most of the main sights are within easy walking distance. Although it is not rich in colonial architecture, the city center has some beautiful 19th century buildings and there are many interesting museums and a colorful food market that’s perfect for a casual lunch. In the evening there are many good restaurants to choose from and for a glimpse of real Costa Rican culture we recommend stopping by a salsa club.

You´ll hike through the forest and up to the impressive main crater before skirting around to the beautiful Botos Lagoon. After enjoying a delicious lunch you´ll visit the little town of Grecia where you can catch a glimpse of local lifestyle in its narrow streets and central market. Last stop will be at the UNESCO protected village of Sarchi, where local craftsmen make Costa Rica´s famous, colorful oxcarts. You'll be able to visit the town's workshops before heading back to your hotel. (Meals B, L)

N.B. For those who travel in luxury, following the visit to the Poás Volcano, you will continue your trip towards the Caribbean side of the volcano, where you will visit the famous La Paz Waterfall Gardens, butterfly observatory and the impressive Hummingbird Gallery.

With spectacular rapids and waterfalls, interspersed with tranquil stretches where you can enjoy the peace of the forest and its diverse flora and fauna, the best way to experience the forest is undoubtedly by boat. After receiving full instructions from your guides you’ll launch your raft and enjoy a thrilling ride down river, crossing class II-III rapids. Arriving at the Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica’s first eco-lodge, just in time for lunch, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon free to relax amidst the rainforest or to take an extra excursion. (Meals - B, L, D)

The communal dining room has fabulous forest views, so you can enjoy your meals as you gaze out at the jungle scenery. This morning you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast including home-made breads, tropical fruits and of course, some strong Costa Rican coffee. Today is free for you to either relax at the lodge or take an extra excursion. One great option is going on a guided walk with the lodge’s naturalist guide to learn all about the natural world of the forest. You could also visit the nearby Cabecar Indian village or take a forest canopy tour. In the evening relax in the candlelit restaurant and enjoy a farewell meal in the forest. (Meals - B, L, D)

The Creole culture that you find here comes in part from the descendants of the Jamaican workers who came here around 1900 for the construction of the railway. The town has a lively nightlife, with lots of choice of music, including plenty of reggae and calypso. There are many nice restaurants and market stalls selling local crafts and jewelry. With its laid-back attitude and beach-centric lifestyle, Puerto Viejo offers an ideal location for lots of fun and relaxation. (Meals - B, L - Dinner is included ONLY for Luxury Package)

Along the way you'll see some of the 380 species of tropical birds, as well as monkeys, sloths and all sorts of other creatures. You will also learn about local medicinal plants and the natural history of Gandoca. After your hike you'll enjoy a tropical fruit snack before snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the bay. You'll be able to discover a world of multi-colored tropical fish in these warm waters, including the spectacular blue parrot fish. The afternoon and evening are then free for you to relax at your hotel and enjoy dinner. (Meals B)

More than 60% of Costa Rica's mammals are nocturnal, and using a specially designed lighting system you will be able to spot them with the help of your nature guide. You´ll see the red eyes of crocodiles in the darkness, as well as seeing or hearing sloths, long-nosed bats, howler monkeys, yellow-crowned night-herons and spectacled owls. After your river excursion you´ll enjoy dinner at a local farm, where you´ll be served a typical Costa Rican meal with yucca bread, fried sweet plantain and delicious home-made tortillas. (Meals - B, D)

You´ll be accompanied by a naturalist guide, who will point out the flora and fauna of the region. Along the way you could see monkeys, sloths, snakes or coatis, and all sorts of tropical birds. The walk culminates at a lookout point with magnificent views of Costa Rica's most active volcano. Afterwards you can relax in the nearby hot springs warmed by heat from the heart of the Arenal Volcano, visible in the distance. After a good soak you can enjoy a delicious Costa Rican meal in the spa´s restaurant. (Meals - B, D - Dinner is not inlcuded in the Luxury Package)

The ocean views are beautiful and often you can see pods of jumping dolphins along the way. From there you´ll continue through the mountainous, jungle covered interior by road. Malpaís and Santa Teresa are two nearby fishing villages on the southern coastal tip of the peninsula, both with a lovely, relaxed and elegant atmosphere. The small, picturesque Malpaís is a sleepy seaside town, with a jagged, rocky coastline, volcanic formations and unspoiled nature. The slightly larger Santa Teresa is dotted with surf shops, cafes and restaurants, but is still a farming community at heart. You'll see chickens crossing the road and farmers trotting through town on horseback. Both places are known for their stunning beaches, breathtaking sunsets and delicious, international cuisine. Because the two places are a little far apart, it is common to see people moving around by ATV. You can rent one yourself as well! (Meals - B)

To experience the region´s marine wildlife head into the shallows for some tropical snorkeling. At the southern end of Malpaís, past the small fishing port, you’ll find what the locals call the 'secret beach', one of the best snorkeling spots in the region. Other great options are cycling, kayaking or taking a horseback ride along the beach and through the coastal jungle to encounter monkeys, iguanas, pelicans and crabs. Finish your day at the beach with a freshly caught fish in a local restaurant, or enjoy the sunset from a beachfront bar. (Meals - B)

The nearby town of Montezuma, with its beaches, beautiful waterfalls and laid-back pace, is a good place to get a bite to eat and perhaps spend the afternoon canopy rappelling with spectacular views over the Pacific Ocean. On your return to Mal Pais or Santa Teresa you can enjoy another fabulous sunset from the beach before dinner. (Meals - B)

You could also visit the National Theatre or the gold or jade museums, before dinner at one of the city´s excellent restaurants. (Meals - B)