Costa Rican Adventure

A representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the Sleep Inn Hotel in San Jose, (or similar). You will receive an itinerary that includes the initial pick up times and telephone numbers for the following day. Please check with hotel reception at check in. You will be rafting tomorrow, so you may want to prepare a dry day pack to carry with you as access to your main luggage will be limited and transferred to the Pacuare River Lodge to rendezvous with later in the day.

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 10 kilometers of Class II-III rapids today exploring the magnificent river valley. By afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, El Nido de Tigre (or similar) which nestles between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river. This area of rainforest is maintained as much as possible in its natural state. From the center of the camp, trails radiate out to secreted areas of rainforest, 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.

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We will run a total of 25 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids. 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 the Arenal Volcano. There is a wide choice of restaurants to choose from in La Fortuna for dinner.

In the morning we enjoy a picturesque walk through the tropical rainforest. We will be around 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges, one of the highlights in this area. Here we'll have wonderful panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall which falls 120ft to a large natural swimming pool. The descent is steep and we take the stair set down to the waterfall as we become immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. The falls spill over into smaller gentler pour overs and swim areas which are our natural playground before we begin our ascent. The afternoon may be spent exploring the town of La Fortuna or relaxing in your hotel. Thanks to the Arenal Volcano’s geothermal activity, there is a number of natural hot springs throughout the area. They are designed to be very much in tune with their natural environment and offer a fantastic way to relax in the warm and soothing mineral waters while enjoying spectacular scenery in close proximity, that’s why you will be transfer tonight at one of these amazing thermal waters where the entrance and a delicious dinner will be also included.

Free time to explore Manuel Antonio and the National Park. It takes about five hours to get to the National Park. The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is a treasure chest of natural beauty. In Manuel Antonio the rainforest dramatically meets the Pacific Ocean as it bows down to greet the white sandy beaches. It is a great place to relax or to explore the National Park. You will often be awakened by the local monkeys – howler, white-faced and squirrel are the most common in the area, as well as iguanas and land crabs.
To make the most of your time at the beach, you can book the following optional activities (additional cost): Canopy Tour, Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling, Islas Damas Mangrove Kayak Trip or Boat Trip, Catamaran & Snorkeling Adventure, Surfing lessons. Speak with our Reservations staff for details and pricing.

The morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the beach. In the afternoon, you will be transferred by road back to San Jose. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San Jose.

This morning you will be transferred to San Jose airport after breakfast where the trip concludes.