A Costa Rican Adventure

Trip highlights  

•Two-day whitewater rafting, Pacuare River

•Hiking, Arenal Volcano

•Tabacón Hot Springs

•Beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio

•Hotels: San José, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

•Overnight rainforest tent camp – El Nido del Tigre

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 1 San José (arrival)

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. The evening is free to explore San José.

Day 2 Pacuare River

The 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 whitewater 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 Pacuare River

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We maneuver 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” near the town of Siquirres we drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to Arenal Volcano. (B, L)

Day 4 Arenal Volcano

In the morning we enjoy a beautiful hike through the tropical rainforest, walking for 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges with wonderful panoramic views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We will continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall. We are immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. As we descend through the undergrowth to the base of this 120ft waterfall we take time to enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool. After lunch we take a guided hike through rainforest trails to the main observation viewpoint for the volcano. If the weather is clear it is often possible to see fireworks, molten lava and gas eruptions from the volcano. Late afternoon we relax in the mineral hot springs of Tabacón before having dinner at the Spa. (B, L, D)

From Arenal there are 2 options:

1) Manuel Antonio Beach

2) Monteverde Cloud Forest

Option1:

Day 5&6 Manuel Antonio Beach

Today we leave Arenal and cross the country to the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica which is a treasure chest of natural beauty. Rainforest dramatically meets beach and the sea and Manuel Antonio is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach or the National Park. You will often be awakened by the local monkeys (howler, white-faced) and squirrels that are very common in the area, as well as iguanas and land crabs. You will find many options for lunch, either on the beach itself or in the town and there are some unique restaurants to explore for dinner. (B)

Day 7 Beach/San José

The morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the beach. After lunch, you will be transferred to San José. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San José. (B)

Day 8 San José/Departure

You will be picked up at your hotel in time for your departure from the airport. (B)

Option 2:

Substitute days 5, 6 and 7 for this option

You have a choice of transportation for your journey to Monteverde:

A) Horseback riding between the Arenal Volcano and Monteverde offers the best views of the volcano and lush mountains. Your luggage will either accompany you by packhorse or be transported by boat (weather dependent). If you are looking for a little adventure and a chance to get around in Costa Rica without having to take a bus or taxi then this is the way to go! (approximately 4 hours).

Or

B) For those not comfortable with a horseback ride, take a 30 minute boat ride across the picturesque Lake Arenal to the town of Río Chiquito on the south side of the Lake from where you will be transported by car to your hotel in Monteverde. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.

Breakfast is included before you depart. You can choose your own spot for lunch and dinner in Monteverde.

Please make your mode of travel preference clear (Option A or B) at the time of reserving your trip.

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, Don Juan Coffee Tour, horseback riding, twilight hike, suspension bridges, etc. (B)

Day 7 Monteverde/return to San Jose

You have some time this morning to continue to enjoy the Cloud Forest and have lunch before your pick up for the return journey to San José. The evening is free to enjoy the nightlife and restaurants of San José. (B)

Day 8 San José (departure)

A representative will drive you to the airport for your return flight home. (B)

Please inform us about your preference (option 1 or option 2) in the remarks field of the reservationform!

Do you fit the client profile for this trip?

A Costa Rican Adventure is designed for everyone! We ask that you have a healthy spirit of adventure and good general fitness. There are no specific requirements for whitewater rafting but you will fully participate in paddling.