Trip Description
Costa Rica, true to its "rich coast" name, is a treasure chest of boiling volcanic heights, white sand beaches, teeming coral reefs and seemingly limitless jungle life. So bountiful is this Central American eden that its government today protects more species of mammals and birds than do the continental U.S.A. and Canada combined.
Our FOOTPRINTS adventure begins high in the mists of Monteverde Biological Reserve and its breathtaking tropical cloud forest. Based in comfortable accommodations just outside the park, we hike the many trails to study the intricate and varied environment. Even while enjoying our relaxing lodge gardens, we can observe close hand an |
astonishing assortment of hummingbirds.
Next on our iterary, we visit thundering Arenal Volcano and the Arenal National Park. Hiking the lava flows, we explore local flora and fauna and bathe in nearby natural hot springs. Night views of the frquently erupting Arenal are a spectacular highlight.
At the Caribbean coast, we visit the long stretch of dense rain forest harbored in Tortuguero National Park. Our accommodations are at the idyllic and remote Tortuga Lodge. From this comfortable jungle retreat, we boat the silent river and canal system to inland lagoons. Here we see |
iguanas, white-faced howler and spider monkeys, sloths, caimans, river turtles and more than 320 species of native birds.
A flight to San Jose with a day at yur leisure in the capital caps off this eventful trip, along with one last entertaining evening in the city before the next morning's homeward departures.
FOOTPRINTS also offers an optional four-day Pacific-coast extension to this trip. At Manuel Antonio's vast crescent beach, we relax along the beautiful tropical shore by day and enjoy the lively gay nightlife each night, heralded by Costa Rica's spectacular sunsets. |
