Join us in Costa Rica with epic natural wonders, abundant wildlife and enchanting culture.
Sunday, January 3
This afternoon we’ll transfer to the Hilton Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport for one night.
Monday, January 4 (Dinner)
Our journey into the “Pura Vida” – Pure Life – of Costa Rica begins with a morning flight to San José. Upon arrival we’ll check into the Gran Hotel Costa Rica for two nights. Our hotel is located close to squares, national monuments, and pedestrian streets. The hotel is a stylish property and has been declared a historical and architectural monument. Get acquainted with your traveling companions during a Welcome Dinner at the hotel.
Tuesday, January 5 (Breakfast, Dinner)
Today we begin exploring the natural beauty of Costa Rica with a tour of Irazu Volcano National Park. Here we will see the colossal Irazu Volcano standing at 11,260 feet above sea level. The park includes many geological features including a viewpoint from which both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts may be seen. Our day continues with a visit to the internationally recognized Lankester Botanical Garden, established in 1973 as a center for exhibition, conservation, and research of tropical epiphytic plants such as orchids. The field, greenhouse, and forest collections host over 3,000 species of plants. We return to the hotel for time to relax and refresh before departing for the mountains of the Central Pacific, where the Mirador Tiquicia Restaurant is located. This traditional farmhouse offers us a genuine Costa Rican ambiance where we’ll sample local food and national drinks served in the kitchen area. We’ll enjoy amazing views of the Central Valley and be entertained by Noche Tica, a
Wednesday, January 6 (Breakfast, Dinner)
Today we travel to Sarchi, known as the cradle of Costa Rican artisans, where we’ll receive an oxcart painting lesson. During this educational and cultural activity, an authentic local artisan will provide interesting narration and demonstrate the painting techniques that he uses. Your personal creation will be a one-of-a-kind souvenir! Enjoy stunning views of the Arenal Volcano at the Arenal Manoa Resort Hotel & Hot Springs, our home for the next three nights. After getting settled in your Junior Suite room and relaxing for a bit, we will enjoy dinner together in the hotel’s restaurant.
Thursday, January 7 (Breakfast, Dinner)
This morning will be spent at Mistico Nature Park where a guided walk will give us an intimate view of the birds, flowers, and lush vegetation of the rainforest. The paths and hanging bridges of this 618-acre forest were built to maintain the harmony between man-made structures and nature. Watch for colorful birds and monkeys and admire the numerous tropical plant species. After our walk, we’ll have time for lunch in the park and then return to the hotel for some time to relax by the pool. This evening we’ll be treated to an excellent dinner at Don Rufino, mixing the best local flavors with those of world cuisine.
Friday, January 8 (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
A day trip northward through pineapple and sugarcane fields brings us to Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, considered by many to be the third most important wetland in the world. In 1991 it was named “Wetland of International Importance” and is home to a number of the world’s rare plant, animal, and bird species. In this remote, ecologically sacred area, we’ll embark on a guided wildlife cruise along the Río Frío in search of spectacular wildlife. Keep a watchful eye out for sloths, howler monkeys, crocodiles, turtles, and unique species of flora and fauna. After our exciting safari, we’ll enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch and then return to the hotel for a free afternoon to enjoy at your leisure. Dinner will be included this evening at our hotel.
Saturday, January 9 (Breakfast, Dinner)
Our day starts with a scenic cruise and drive to Monteverde. On board the comfortable, pontoon-style boat we’ll navigate across Arenal Lake, the largest and most important lake in Costa Rica. This man-made lake was created in 1974 to supply hydroelectric power for the country. It is possible to see monkeys, sloths, and the impressive Arenal Volcano during our cruise. Upon arrival in Monteverde, we’ll visit Don Juan Hacienda for a tour to learn about coffee, chocolate, and sugarcane. We’ll see the process of coffee production, from seed to the delectable final product – a cup of coffee. Next is chocolate! Learn about the methods that create pure ground cocoa and transform it into a delicious drink. Learn about the origin, planting, harvesting, and the different varieties of products that come from sugarcane. Surrounded by the lush greenery and biodiversity of Monteverde’s cloud forest, Ocotea Boutique Hotel will be our home for one night. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Sunday, January 10 (Breakfast)
Today we will explore the world of butterflies, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Learn about the life cycles of butterflies and moths in the temperature-controlled butterfly garden which is host to 50 different species. At the world’s largest private insect collection take a close look at thousands of insects, butterflies and other amazing arthropods specimens. The Herpetarium is the ideal place to learn about the country’s reptiles and amphibians. The frogs, iguanas and snakes are kept in terrariums which simulate their natural habitat. Our afternoon journey takes us to the northwest coast, one of the most beautiful beach areas in Costa Rica. We’ll check into the lovely Tamarindo Diria Resort for two nights. This beachfront property is located on Tamarindo Beach, known for its warm waters and spectacular sunsets. Get settled in your ocean-view room and then explore the pools, white sand beach, fitness center, day beds, and bars. The evening is free to enjoy dinner at one of the casual cafés in Tamarindo town.
Monday, January 11 (Breakfast)
Today is yours to spend however you wish! Stroll on the beach, relax by the sparkling pool, or browse the nearby shops. There are numerous activities off-property from which to choose including wildlife cruises, whale watching cruises, bike rentals, and more. Enjoy lunch and dinner at one of the many restaurants within easy walking distance of the hotel.
Tuesday, January 12 (Breakfast)
After breakfast, we head to the nearby Liberia airport for our flight home. We’ll be taking with us wonderful memories of our amazing experience of Pura Vida!
