Visit differing habitats and unearth a wealth of wildlife on this tailor made itinerary, as you journey through Costa Rica’s bountiful rainforests, ethereal cloud forest clad mountains and Pacific coastline.
Costa Rica is undoubtedly the jewel in Central America's wildlife crown, a veritable hotspot of biodiversity. This tailor made itinerary explores the best of Costa Rica's cloud forests and coastlines to see the country's fauna and flora at its best. Amongst this incredible flora, all manner of creatures call this remarkable country home, and we hope they reveal themselves throughout your journey.
The trip visits the lowland forests of Sarapiqui before travelling to the Pacific side of the watershed, where you can discover the outstanding biodiversity of Monteverde’s cloud forests, which hold some 2,000 plant species, 400 bird species and more than 100 species of mammal.
There are opportunities to visit renowned centres of scientific research, go bird watching, river cruising and jungle trail wandering. Or simply sit in tranquil surrounds and contemplate the unique experiences on offer here.
Combining such wildlife opportunities with a beautiful coastline, you have the perfect combination of relaxation and discovery.
Suggested Itinerary
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Day 1:
Fly to San José
On arrival in San José, you're met and transferred (approximately one and a half hours) to your lodge, located on the way to Saripiqui.
Accommodation: Bosque de Paz Lodge, 1-night
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Days 2-3
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Sarapiqui
Perhaps rise early to enjoy the numerous hummingbird feeders that abound at your lodge before transferring on to Sarapiqui. En route, visit the dramatic natural beauty of Braulio Carillo National Park's mountain peaks, cliffs and canyons. Upon arrival at Sarapiqui, take to the river for a guided wildlife cruise and during your stay, visit the superb La Selva Biological Station to discover the secrets of the rainforest and meet those who work tirelessly to protect and conserve these tropical environments.
Accommodation: Selva Verde Lodge, 2-nights
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Days 4-6
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Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Four hours away by road lie perhaps the most well-known cloud forests in Costa Rica, Monteverde and Santa Elena. During your visit, set off each morning under cover of mist and mystery to discover the wildlife and flora that flourish in these verdant mountains. Privately guided walks through Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and Santa Elena Reserve have been included, providing the opportunity to search for the resplendent quetzal in particular.
Your afternoons are at leisure to fill as you wish. Canopy tours, butterfly garden visits and a plethora of other options can be organised locally, or while away the time enjoying the serenity of your lodge.
Accommodation: Cloud Forest Lodge by Boena, 3-nights
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Day 7:
Carara National Park
The Pacific coastline calls, so head west to Carara National Park, one of the most popular protected areas in the country that's loved by birders especially. Its population of scarlet macaws is the drawcard, but there’s plenty of mammal, amphibian and reptile action if you look hard enough. Your overnight accommodation is set within a private reserve bordering the park, and comes complete with its own hanging bridges, trail network and zipwire.
Accommodation: Villa Lapas Rainforest Eco-Resort, 1-night
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Days 8-10
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Piedras Blancas National Park
Another day, another national park! During your transfer south, visit Manuel Antonio National Park with its picture postcard, idyllic sandy beaches and mangrove-lined lagoons. Continue on to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, your secluded and lovely base for the next three nights. Part of a project actively involved in conservation, research and local community development, this rustic slice of paradise is a rainforest retreat that borders Piedra Blancas National Park.
During your time here, a guided walk with lodge naturalists is included. One day has been left entirely free for you to do with as you wish. Relax around the lodge or investigate options to join night hikes, whale and dolphin watching cruises, birding excursions, horse-riding trips, kayaking, and more (at additional cost). We highly recommend a visit to La Gamba Tropical Research Station to learn about their invaluable field work and conservation initiatives.
Accommodation: Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, 3-nights
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Days 11-12
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San Gerardo de Dota
As the last stop on your itinerary awaits, transfer to San Gerardo de Dota, the access point for Los Quetzales National Park, an area generally accepted as one of the best from which to search for the aptly named resplendent quetzal. The extensive gardens around your lodge attract a wealth of other bird life too, so set off, with a naturalist guide, on an included guided walk to find as many of them as you can. Let the quest begin!
Accommodation: Trogon Lodge, 2-nights
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Day 13:
Depart San José
As your journey draws to a close, transfer to San José today and prepare for departure this evening.
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Day 14:
Arrive UK
