Costa Rica Tours
See Costa Rica through the eyes of Costa Ricans

Ellen, Jeff, Josh, Dana and Jordie MA

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HIGHLANDS & LOWLANDS  8 days / 7 nights:

Costa Rica is about nature. Our fixed departures are intended to bring you close to nature and the culture developed in it. Our expert naturalist guides will unveil the marvels of the tropics as well as the cultural and historical background of Costa Rica . At the end of your trip you will have seen Costa Rica through the eyes of Costa Ricans.

DETAILED DEPARTURE: HIGHLANDS & LOWLANDS 8 days / 7 nights

DETAILED DESCRIPTION: B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner

Day 1. Arrive in Costa Rica

Upon your arrival a Travel in Paradise CR representative will be meeting you at the Juan Santamaria International airport. Right after you come out of customs look for our sign with your name on. Welcome to Costa Rica . Overnight in Hotel Parque del Lago.

Day 2. San Jose / Irazu Volcano / San Gerardo de Dota (B, L, D)

This morning your guide will meet you and your travel companions for an orientation briefing prior to departing. Start out your adventure exploring a bit of San Jose as you go east towards the summit of our tallest volcano, Irazu. Along the way enjoy scenic views of crop land and dairy pastures. Irazu´s summit at 3432meters (aprox. 10500ft) above sea level hence the scarce vegetation, reveals a landscape that makes you feel walking in the moon. After lunch continue to San Gerardo de Dota. Here you will find a deep cloud forest filled with massive oaks and other native species. The woods serve as a sanctuary for a large number of animals including the elusive quetzal. Overnight in Trogon Lodge.

Day 3. Birdwatching for quetzals / Savegre River (B, L, D)

Enjoy a very exciting morning looking for quetzals and other highland birds. Birdwatching is one of the main attractions in this area. The beautiful environment of biological corridors makes this attractive region a paradise, where over 100 bird species coexist. In the afternoon go for a nice hike along the Savegre River . Your guide will take you through the forest and show you the gorgeous flora and fauna that spreads alongside the river until the waterfall. Overnight in Trogon Lodge.

Day 4. to Osa Peninsula , across Sierpe River (B, L, D)

This morning leave the highlands, to go to the lowland tropical rainforest in Osa Peninsula . You will cruise the Sierpe River where you will see the largest mangrove area in the country. Osa Peninsula is a geological formation which developed independently from the rest of the country and then joined the isthmus several million years ago. Its unique formation and naturally wet systems, which differ from the rest of the dry Pacific, have produced high levels of biodiversity. Therefore it well-deserves your visit. This afternoon, along with your guide, explore the grounds surrounding you, enjoy some birdwatching and relax at the beach. Overnight in Marenco Lodge.

Day 5. Osa Peninsula / Corcovado National Park (B, L, D)

A fourth of Costa Rica´s tree species, is found on the Osa Peninsula . This lowland rainforest is made up of 700 tree speciesthe greatest tree species diversity in all of Central America . Get ready today to be immersed in Corcovado , unique home of many vascular plant species. A boat will take you to the northern station of San Pedrillo within the park. Truly worth a nice walk in the trails of this amazingly rich tropical forest. After a hearty pic nic lunch, this afternoon do some more walk or just enjoy the beach. Overnight in Marenco.

Day 6. Caño Island snorkeling (B, L, D)

Found 12 miles off the Osa Peninsula´s western coast, Caño Island is a treat to visit. The boat will bring you near the island first to try some snorkeling (water conditions permitting). Otherwise you will arrive in the island and go snorkeling later. The island itself is a rich archaeological site. Enjoy your day in Caño Island , snorkeling, hiking, and relaxing at the beach. Back to the hotel in the afternoon.

Day 7. local flight to San Jose (B, D)

This morning take the local flight to San Jose . Today is a good opportunity for a city tour and to do last minute shopping. Farewell dinner tonight. Overnight in Hotel Parque del Lago.

Day 8. Departure day.

Shuttle service to the international airport. Or extend your stay with optional two and three night packages.

Included in the trip:

Transportation: Airport/hotel transfers, private land transportation as described in itinerary. Local flight Osa Peninsula-San Jose

Lodging: for 7 nights at Superior Tourist-class hotels, in comfortable rooms with private bath.

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

Services of expert naturalist Guide

Highlights: Irazu Volcano, San Gerardo de Dota, Corcovado National Park , Caño Island , local flight.

Taxes and entrance fees: of all included features.

Not included: airport taxes, services not specified in itinerary, personal equipment, hotel extras (laundry, phone calls, room service, alcoholic beverages), personal insurance coverage (recommended).

HIGHLANDS & LOWLANDS: