Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Manuel Antonio

Welcome to San José! Upon arrival, you will be met by your tour director!

Shell Games Journey east to the Caribbean shore and Tortuguero National Park. On the way, pass by several banana plantations and see one of Costa Rica’s main exports being harvested. Later, board a motor launch for your cruise along the Tortuguero Canals, waterways crisscrossing a national park dedicated to the protection of endangered turtles. The trained eyes of your guide and boatman help you spot freshwater turtles, caimans, herons, toucans, egrets, and monkeys. An afternoon at leisure lets you explore your jungle lodge until you meet for an informative slideshow presentation on the area. (B,L,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT WONDERS OF NATURE Tortuguero National Park was once a volcanic archipelago until sediments from the nearby mountains filled in the valleys forming a network of marshy islands and turtle nesting beaches that make this region so famous. With its 11 different habitats, this lush, protected area is rich with wildlife and biodiversity.

Natural Beauties A local Naturalist accompanies you on a leisurely boat ride along remote, unspoiled sections of the park’s waterways, explaining the bountiful flora and fauna. Enjoy a fascinating stroll through an accessible portion of the nearby rainforest. During the peak nesting season (mid-July to mid-October) you may be lucky enough to observe an endangered green turtle laying her eggs under the starlight on an optional tour. Later this afternoon, meet a local Naturalist for an informative presentation on the ecology of the area. (B,L,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CONSERVATION MATTERS Tortuguero’s turtles that come to nest in the national park named for them are easily considered one of the main attractions of the park. Green Sea Turtles, leatherback, and Hawksbill turtles can all be found nesting on the beaches here. During your time here, learn about the conservation efforts that have been in place since 1955 to help protect these endangered species.

Fruitful Experiences A morning boat transfer begins your journey to the Sarapiqui area. Tour a [LOCAL FAVORITE] pineapple farm, owned by a local family, and learn about the history, cultivation, and industry of pineapples and other indigenous crops. Continue to your hotel in the lush town of Arenal, located in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. After settling in, experience the magic of the resort before dinner at your hotel (B,L,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Lush tropical gardens, the sound of crashing waterfalls, and striking views of Costa Rica’s famed Arenal Volcano from Volcano Lodge will leave you feeling as though you have been transported into the middle of a hidden rainforest jungle but, with all of the comforts and amenities of a well-tended retreat. Experience the magic of the resort’s pool and hot spring-fed jacuzzi or consider a walk in the nearby nature trail in search of 300- to 400-year-old trees, frogs, monkeys, birds, and possibly small animals native to the area.