Natural Wonders of Costa Rica
Natural Wonders of Costa Rica
Natural Wonders of Costa Rica
9 Days Starting and ending in San José, Costa Rica
Visiting: San José, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal, Monteverde
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SR-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Natural Wonders of Costa Rica" tour, where you'll explore the country's rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Begin your adventure in San José, then travel to Tortuguero National Park to cruise its canals and witness the nesting grounds of endangered turtles. Continue to Arenal, where you'll tour a pineapple farm and relax in hot springs with views of the majestic Arenal Volcano. In Monteverde, traverse the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges for a unique perspective of the cloud forest. Conclude your trip with visits to the artisan village of Sarchi and the historic metal church in Grecia, before returning to San José. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and delicious meals throughout this immersive nature tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In San José,Costa Rica
Location: San José
Accommodation Name: Cariari Hotel San Jose
Upon arrival, you will be met by your tour director!ARRIVE IN SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA Welcome to San José!Upon arrival, you will be met by your tour director!
Day 2: San José,Tortuguero National Park
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SAN JOSÉ–TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK 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 HIGHLIGHTWONDERS 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.
Day 3: Tortuguero National Park Tour & Canal Cruise
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK TOUR & CANAL CRUISE Natural BeautiesA 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 HIGHLIGHTCONSERVATION 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.
Day 4: Tortuguero,Sarapiqui,Arenal
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Volcano Lodge & Gardens
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
TORTUGUERO–SARAPIQUI–ARENAL Fruitful ExperiencesA morning boat transfer begins your journey to the Sarapiqui area. Tour a [LF] 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.
Day 5: Arenal. Excursion To La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano National Park
Location: Arenal
Accommodation Name: Volcano Lodge & Gardens
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
ARENAL. EXCURSION TO LA FORTUNA & ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK Lava LoveThis afternoon, visit Arenal Volcano National Park, where your guide takes you on a walk through lava trails of the volcano and shows you how nature has found a way to recover from past lava flows. Next, enjoy a walking tour of the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos, offering spectacular views of the active Arenal Volcano. This evening, drive to nearby [LF] Ecotermales Hot Springs for a dip in the curative and relaxing pools. Later, enjoy a dinner at the hot springs. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITEWONDERS OF NATURE Towering over the town of La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano is a perfect conical shape. It was once the most active volcano in Costa Rica with its lava flowing and gas consistently flowing from the crater amazing visitors of the area. In 2010, it entered a resting phase. But, because of the seismic activity of the area, you will find some of the best natural thermal hot springs. FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE During your morning at leisure, you may wish to go on an optional horseback ride or float trip. Or, you can take advantage of your resort’s amenities by walking along the shaded trails nearby. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus. Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.
Day 6: Arenal,Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: El Establo Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
ARENAL–MONTEVERDE Heads in the CloudsAfter breakfast, continue to Monteverde, where you will enjoy two days in the cloud forest. This afternoon, take a guided tour on the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges, which combines trails and suspension bridges through the canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest, to search for flora and fauna. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT Explore the cloud forest from the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges for a bird’s eye view high above the jungle floor. This Naturalist-guided tour introduces you to the flora and fauna of the Costa Rican cloud forest. Consisting of 6 bridges with some bridges spanning over 700 feet long and over 150 feet high, this is truly a unique way to admire the forest canopy.
Day 7: Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation Name: El Establo Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MONTEVERDE SANTA ELENA CLOUD FOREST RESERVE Butterfly KissesThis morning, visit Santa Elena Cloud Forest for a guided walking tour. Over 600 species of butterflies and 400 species of birds have been recorded inside this private reserve, along with 100 reptile and 120 mammal species that hide within the dense vegetation. Later, visit the family-owned [LF] Ecological Sanctuary, where you will explore the trails through coffee and banana plantations filled with endemic wildlife and beautiful scenery. After the walk, enjoy a cooking class. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner, toasting an unforgettable discovery of Costa Rica. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Treat yourself to a visit to a leisurely stroll through a banana and coffee plantation, and take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Costa Rican food like hand-made tortillas, picadillos, and gallo pinto. Dine on your creations for a homemade lunch!
Day 8: Monteverde,Sarchi,Grecia,San José
Location: San José
Accommodation Name: Cariari Hotel San Jose
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
MONTEVERDE–SARCHI–GRECIA–SAN JOSÉ Costa Rican CraftsmanshipEn route to San José, visit Sarchi Village, known as the center of Costa Rican handcrafts and where you will see the artists in their workshops making the famous oxcarts. Next stop is Grecia Village to see the metal church that was imported from Belgium to Puerto Limon in 1897. The church was transported by oxcarts to its present-day location, but sat in the plaza for 10 years before being reconstructed. (B,L) TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEMS Visit the local village of Sarchi and see firsthand how the traditional ox carts are hand-painted. Once used to transport coffee and sugarcane, these are now pieces of art with intricate designs.
Day 9: San José
Location: San José
Accommodation Name: Cariari Hotel San Jose
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.SAN JOSÉ Safe travels until we meet again!Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at the following hotels: Cariari Hotel San Jose in San Jose, Evergreen Lodge in Tortuguero, Volcano Lodge & Gardens in Arenal, and El Establo Mountain Lodge in Monteverde.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners are included.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours and excursions including Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.
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Transportation
Transportation between destinations including boat transfers and motor launches.
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Local Experiences
Unique local experiences such as a pineapple farm tour, a visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs, and a cooking class at a family-owned ecological sanctuary.
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Small Group Discoveries
Tours are limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure, ensuring a more personalized experience.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional tours and activities such as horseback riding or float trips are not included and can be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Costa Rica are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on all South America tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
Accommodation
San Jose: Cariari Hotel San Jose, Tortuguero: Evergreen Lodge, Arenal: Volcano Lodge & Gardens, Monteverde: El Establo Mountain Lodge
Notes
Maximum elevation on tour is 9,000 ft.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Tortuguero National Park?
In Tortuguero National Park, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including freshwater turtles, caimans, herons, toucans, egrets, and monkeys. The park is also known for its endangered turtles, such as Green Sea Turtles, leatherback, and Hawksbill turtles.
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What activities are included in the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park?
During the visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, you will take a guided walk through the lava trails of the volcano and learn how nature has recovered from past lava flows. You will also enjoy a walking tour of the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos and visit the Ecotermales Hot Springs for a relaxing dip in the thermal pools.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges in Monteverde?
During the visit to the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges in Monteverde, you will take a guided tour that combines trails and suspension bridges through the canopy of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. This tour offers a bird's eye view high above the jungle floor and introduces you to the flora and fauna of the Costa Rican cloud forest.
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What is special about the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve?
The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is home to over 600 species of butterflies and 400 species of birds, along with 100 reptile and 120 mammal species. The reserve offers a guided walking tour where you can explore the dense vegetation and observe the diverse wildlife.
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What will I experience at the family-owned Ecological Sanctuary in Monteverde?
At the family-owned Ecological Sanctuary in Monteverde, you will explore trails through coffee and banana plantations filled with endemic wildlife and beautiful scenery. You will also participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Costa Rican food and enjoy a homemade lunch.
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What can I expect to see in Sarchi Village?
In Sarchi Village, you will visit workshops where artists create the famous hand-painted oxcarts. These traditional ox carts, once used to transport coffee and sugarcane, are now pieces of art with intricate designs.
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What is the significance of the metal church in Grecia Village?
The metal church in Grecia Village was imported from Belgium to Puerto Limon in 1897 and transported by oxcarts to its present-day location. It sat in the plaza for 10 years before being reconstructed. The church is a unique architectural and historical landmark.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Enquire for huge savings
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