EXPLORE COSTA RICA

Above: A sunset over the Pacific, seen from Manuel Antonio National Park.

Highlights

• Meet researchers at the Sea Turtle Conservancy, co-founded by a National Geographic Explorer.

• Lend a hand with reforestation efforts at the Monteverde Institute, a center supported by National Geographic.

• Navigate the jungle-lined canals of Tortuguero National Park, spotting fascinating wildlife.

• Tour a G Adventures–supported coffee cooperative, and learn to make tortillas with a local family in La Fortuna.

DAY 1 | SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 | SAN JOSÉ/TORTUGUERO

Travel by land and motorized canoe to Tortuguero National Park, a nesting site for the endangered green sea turtle. Settle into our secluded lodge; then enjoy a guided boat trip. Later, opt for a nighttime boat excursion. The next morning, set out again along the park’s wildlife-rich canals in search of monkeys, sloths, and birds. Afterward, visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy.

DAYS 4–6 | TORTUGUERO/LA FORTUNA

Depart early for the town of La Fortuna at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. En route, visit a G Adventures–supported coffee cooperative. Later, unwind by the scenic pool. Spend the next two days exploring on your own. Choose to go stand-up paddle boarding on Lake Arenal, venture into the Venado Caves, tour the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge by boat, set out on a canyoning excursion, or relax at an outdoor spa. One evening, learn how to make tortillas, and share a meal at a local home.

DAYS 7–9 | MONTEVERDE

Travel by road and boat to the cloud forests of Monteverde. Spend two days exploring this charming town and the nearby reserve. During free time, embark on a zip lining adventure, or walk across hanging bridges. Then pay a visit to the Monteverde Institute, where many National Geographic Explorers have conducted research. Hear from a researcher about conservation initiatives, and head to the nursery to help plant trees. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, opting to visit the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, explore forest trails on horseback, or go zip lining.

DAYS 10–12 | MANUEL ANTONIO

Travel to the sweeping Pacific coast and the seaside village of Manuel Antonio. Soak up the laid-back atmosphere of the area, and opt to relax on the beach, or go surfing, or dolphin watching on a catamaran. Discover the lush tropical forests and white sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided day trip. Then enjoy a full day to spend as you choose: ride along jungle trails on horseback, opt to take a surfing lesson, or head out on a snorkeling or kayaking excursion.

DAYS 13–14 | MANUEL ANTONIO/ SAN JOSÉ

Return to San José. Tonight, choose to attend a farewell dinner. On the last day, depart at any time.

Call or visit our website for full itineraries, inclusions, and more.

14 DAYS FROM $ 3,049 PER PERSON.

AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: + $1,419

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

Dates

2023: Departures available year-round

2024: Departures available year-round

Please visit our website for departure dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional activities are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (11 nights), rustic jungle lodge (2 nights)

MEALS INCLUDED

13 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $470–$615 per person for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, shuttle van, boat

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

If you’re booked, you’re going.