Cloud Forests and Mountains

14 days

Much of Costa Rica is swathed in dense forest, and wildlife flourishes in this fecund environment where each distinct ecological niche is home to a surprising variety of inhabitants. Close to the capital, the lowland forests of Sarapiqui are the site of a fascinating biological research station, while Los Quetzales National Park, named after the country's national bird - the resplendent quetzal - encompasses three types of rainforest in the Talamanca Mountains - a renowned birding destination. To the Pacific side of the watershed, Monteverde's cloud forests hold some 2,000 plant species, including numerous orchids, around 400 bird species and more than 100 species of mammal. The combination of beach and rainforest along the Pacific coast, with populations of scarlet macaws, makes this an ideal place to relax for a while.

Day 1. Fly to San Jose

Fly from London to San Jose and transfer to your hotel for 1 night

Days 2-3. Sarapiqui

Drive to Sarapiqui, visiting Braulio Carillo NP enroute. Spend 2 nights in Sarapiqui; visit La Selva Biological Station and a chocolate plantation.

Days 4-5. Monteverde Reserve

Drive to Monteverde. Guided walks in Santa Elena de Monteverde Reserve.

Days 6-7. Carara National Park

Transfer to Villa Lapas for 2 nights; excursion to Carara NP and explore aerial walkways.

Days 8-9. Esquina

Explore Piedras Blancas National Park on foot, by horse, boat or kayak.

Days 10-11. San Gerardo de Dota

Transfer to San Gerardo de Dota; optional activities including bird watching to spot the beautiful resplendent quetzal, nature walks, horseriding, canopy tour.

Day 12. San Jose

Return to San Jose for a final night.

Day 13. Depart San Jose

Overnight flight back to the UK

Day 14. Arrive UK