On This Trip
- Seek adventure and wonderful birdlife in Monteverde and Santa Elena
- Take a walk in the Arenal National Park
- Explore the canals of Tortugero National Park
Costa Rica is well known for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife and wealth of exhilarating activities, and no visit would be complete without experiencing these. However, there are also some hidden gems where you can get off the beaten track and escape the crowds which this suggested trip aims to encompass.
The trip begins in Rincon de la Vieja National Park in the north of the country. Here the imposing volcano not only provides a dramatic backdrop but also feeds many natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation after an activity filled day. You will then continue to one of Costa Rica's foremost attractions, Volcan Arenal. This picture-perfect volcano is among the twenty most active in the world, regularly spewing out glowing molten rocks and thick smoke. The trip then takes you to the serene cloud forests of Bajos del Toro and El Silencio Lodge. Here you really can escape the world for a couple of days, relaxing at this fantastic ecolodge or exploring the trails winding through the cool, dense forests.
The next stop, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, is emerging as a popular spot, with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and and a renowned biological research station where you will enjoy a guided birdwatching tour with a naturalist guide. This is also a perfect spot to enjoy the favourite Costa Rican activity, ziplining through the treetops. Continue to Tortuguero National Park, a breeding ground for green sea turtles and important conservation site. Your time here will be spent exploring the canals spotting monkeys, birds and caiman with evening turtle watching tours offered from July until September.
The trip rounds off nicely with time spent relaxing on the gorgeous beaches of the Caribbean coastline and exploring the jungle at the Almonds and Corals resort in Manzanillo. There is also a rare opportunity to visit with the lodge the Bribri and Cachabri indigenous groups, as well as take excursions into the national park. A perfect way to end your time in this wonderful country.
Extensions
If you are looking for a truly diverse trip add a bit of culture by hopping over the border into neighbouring Nicaragua with its wonderful people and colourful colonial cities. Panama also combines very easily with Costa Rica whether it be by simply flying over for a few days around Panama City and the Canal or by taking the overland route between the 2 countries to explore the Panamanian highlands and the beautiful islands of Bocas Del Toro.
Places Visited
- Rincon de la Vieja
- Arenal Volcano and the Cloudforest Reserves
- Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui
- Tortuguero and the Caribbean Coast