San José is located is at an elevation of 3,000 feet above sea level in the Central Valley. Nearly half of Costa Rica’s 4 million inhabitants live there and modern buildings are taking over the former colonial structures. This cosmopolitan capital of Costa Rica is filled with department stores and shopping malls, and also has several excellent museums, great restaurants, colorful markets and a pleasant climate.
You will take Rainforest Waterfall Hike: Hike up and down through virgin rain forest to pristine waterfalls along the Carbonera River. This is a real rain forest experience with adventurous hiking. This trip is for all hardy hikers looking for a challenge; difficult, with wet walking and some climbing.
Three-hour. Horseback Riding Tour: Gentle but responsive horses follow a forest road through secondary and virgin jungle and finish galloping on the beach. Arrangements must be made by mid-afternoon for the next day. A highly-recommended tour for horse and nature lovers. 2-3 hrs. The Osa Trail: The complete rain forest experience! This tour descends through the reserve’s most remote and pristine forest. The 4 km. trail features many different types of rain forest vegetation and offers you the best opportunity to see something rare. Med-difficult. Arenal Volcano: At the center of a national park in the northwest of the country, the perfectly conical, 1633m (5356ft) Arenal volcano is the image of a typical volcano. The volcano has been exceptionally active since 1968. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest and experience its peacefulness as we quietly paddle the Peñas Blancas River. Monkeys, sloth, iguanas, crocodiles and numerous tropical birds await you. Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge is one of the most important wetland regions in Central America, considered of international importance as it protects a number of endangered migratory species. Driving north through rolling agricultural land, arrive at the tiny town of Los Chiles, where you board a boat for a trip down the Rio Frío. In addition to the wide range of birds that live along the river - including the anhinga, roseate spoonbill, and wood stork -- turtles, caiman, sloth and monkeys may be seen.
Monteverde is a cloud forest and quite a different environment from the rainforests of the rest of the country. The cooler temperatures and high rainfall create an eco-system, which supports a plentiful and diverse variety of species. The Monteverde Cloud forest Reserve covers 10,500 hectares and is a private reserve set up by the Quakers who settled in the area. The reserve is home to over 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, plus many reptiles, amphibians and over 6,000 types of insects (a good repellent is essential). The most famous bird is the legendary quetzal. There are many well-prepared trails, which means that visitors can take interesting short walks as well as longer hikes.
Costa Rica Highlights Travel Vacation Package (14N) includes:
Observations:
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