Important: U.S. citizens require a passport valid for at least six (6) months after arrival date, and the passport must be in good condition
(Costa Rican immigration will deny entry if the passport is damaged in any way).
Day 1: U.S./San Jose, Costa Rica/Arenal: Depart U.S. for San Jose, Costa Rica's capital city. Upon arrival, proceed to baggage claim
and after clearing customs you will be met by your local Club ABC representative. One of today's most popular vacation spots, Costa Rica is a land of
volcanoes, pristine rainforests, tropical beaches and exotic wildlife. Despite its size, Costa Rica has some of the most biodiversity of any country
in the world. Costa Rica is well protected by an extensive system of national parks that cover over 11% of the country. Here you can see many species
of birds, reptiles, monkeys, sloths, caimans, flowers and trees. Transfer to your hotel in Arenal. This afternoon transfer to the Hidalgo Family Hot
Springs for dinner and relaxation. (Dinner)
Day 2: Arenal: After breakfast, embark on a guided Safari Boat tour on the Penas Blancas River. Explore the rainforest on a Peņa
Blancas River Float tour. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest and experience its peacefulness as you travel down the Peņa Blancas River.
Pass through beautiful flora and fauna, and see animals such as monkeys, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles and numerous tropical birds. Visit the Hanging
Bridges of Arenal, the only volcano in Costa Rica constantly active since it woke up after 400 years with the big 1968 eruption producing huge ash columns,
explosions and glowing red lava almost every day. It is considered one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world. Return to the hotel for overnight.
(Breakfast)
Day 3: Arenal/Monteverde: After breakfast drive to Monteverde and check in to your hotel. Enjoy this afternoon on your own. Monteverde is
located along the continental divide in north central Costa Rica. Famous for its rich biodiversity and cloud forest, Monteverde is a popular location for
both biologists and tourists. At approximately 1500 meters above sea level the climate is cooler compared to the low lands of Costa Rica. (Breakfast)
Day 4: Monteverde: Today you will tour the Monteverde Biological Reserve. At 200 meters above sea level, this world famous cloud forest reserve
will be the backdrop for a great hike where, with help of your naturalist guide, you will search for the Resplendent Quetzal. Admire the prehistoric
ferns and the trees full of epiphytes and moss. This afternoon is at leisure to partake in optional tours such as horseback riding, Canopy tour, Sky Walk,
or the Butterfly farm. (Breakfast)
Day 5: Monteverde/Quepos: Today after breakfast depart on a scenic drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio in the Quepos region. Situated
along the Pacific Coast, Manuel Antonio boasts an estuary, mangroves, lagoon, beaches and winding paths. Check in to your hotel for overnight. (Breakfast)
Day 6: Quepos: Visit the famous Manuel Antonio National Park, the most beautiful national park in Costa Rica. Immerse yourself in the tropical
rain forest while you participate in an informative walk that will last an easy two and a half hours. After your walk, enjoy a swim at one of the beautiful
beaches surrounded by forests and rocky headlands. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the beach and facilities of your hotel. Overnight in Quepos.
(Breakfast)
Day 7: Quepos: Today is at leisure to relax or explore on your own. (Breakfast)
Day 8: Quepos/U.S.: Transfer the afternoon from Quepos to the airport in San Jose for your overnight flight home. (Breakfast)
Day 9: Arrive home early this morning.
Note: Costa Rican airport departure tax (approximately US$26 per person) is not included and is payable at the airport. U.S. citizens need a passport
valid for at least 6 months after arrival date, and the passport must be in good condition (Costa Rican immigration will deny entry if the passport is damaged
in any way).
