6 minute read

Discover Central America

Exotic and captivating, Costa Rica will cast a spell on you. The soaring volcanic peaks, pristine cloud forests and rare wildlife are sure to steal your breath away.

Exquisite natural wonders Costa Rica offers a host of nature- based experiences and incredible biodiversity. Her rugged heart is found amongst its national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and serene coastal beaches. A true nature lover’s paradise and home to howling monkeys, toucans, hummingbirds, colourful frogs and leatherback turtles, more than 25 per cent of Costa Rica is protected in national parks and reserves. With a rich history, multi-faceted vibrant cultures and exquisite natural beauty, there’s plenty to appreciate about this unique country. Arenal Volcano National Park Surrounded by rich rainforest, diverse wildlife, coffee plantations and old lava fields, Arenal Volcano National Park lies on the border of Lake Arenal with the conical peak of the volcano at its core. Here you will hike, take a dip in hot thermal springs, rappel through forest canopies, meet local farmers, or simply watch in wonder at the volcano from the poolside. Despite its remoteness, Arenal is the perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, or those yearning for a little wild solitude with the natural world.

Scenic Special Stay

Hotel Amor Arenal, Costa Rica A 5-star rainforest lodge, located at the foothills of Arenal Volcano on the edge of a virgin forest canyon. Features farm to table dining, hot springs and a yoga platform overlooking the canyon, and with a meditation platform floating among the trees.

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D A Keel billed Toucan, Costa Rica B Colonial buildings, San José, Costa Rica C Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica D Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

Costa Rica Nature & Wildlife

A mesmerising walk in the clouds

Enter a world filled with breathtaking natural beauty. Soaring volcanic peaks, pristine waterfalls dropping into turquoise lakes and exotic and rare wildlife will satiate both the thrill seeker and nature lover in you.

Visit the enchanting cloud forests and the lush green rainforests of the unique paradise known as Costa Rica. Explore volcanic towns and immerse yourself into the local everyday activities. Discover the rare and wonderful wildlife of the region, including the black-handed spider monkey, toucans and two-toed sloths.

7 Day Tour Monteverde > San José

Day 1 Monteverde Cloud Forest

Welcome to colourful Costa Rica. Make your way to the famous cloud forest of the country, Monteverde. Visit NATUWA – Macaw and Rescue Centre to learn more about the conservation of native flora and fauna, including endangered species. Enjoy the scenic ride through forests and farms as you ascend the Tilaran Mountain Range for amazing views of the countryside and Nicoya Gulf. Arrive at the Senda Monteverde Hotel, your luxury eco-hotel for the next twonights. Join your Tour Director for a delicious welcome dinner this evening.

Meals: D

Day 2 Monteverde Cloud Forest

Take a Sky Tram up to the Continental Divide and to one of the highest mountains of Monteverde. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on the Sky Trek, a system of zip lines consisting of four kilometres of linear cable, and safely zip through the forest. Five observation towers that rise above the treetops will give you the unique opportunity to view the cloud forest from above. Alternatively, enjoy taking a walk over the hanging bridges.

Squirrel Monkey, Arenal rainforest Day 3 Monteverde Cloud Forest > Arenal Volcano

It is time to leave the cloud forest behind and move towards the rainforest on the northern plains of the country. Cross the Arenal Lake by boat, one of the most scenic rides that you will have during your journey. Once on the other side of the lake, head towards the town of La Fortuna, home to the colossal Arenal Volcano that will be your host for the next three nights, staying in Hotel Amor Arenal. Relax at the facilities of this immersive five star lodge this evening, and enjoy dinner with the group.

Meals: B.D

Day 4 Arenal Volcano

Enjoy a guided journey through the Arenal Vida Campesina farm, experience life in the Costa Rican countryside by participating in local activities like milking a cow, making tortillas, gathering vegetables from the vegetable garden, milling sugar cane, and drawing water from a handmade well. You will also have the opportunity to sponsor and plant a tree in danger of extinction, followed by a delicious and wholesome organic lunch made with products harvested from the property and cooked on a wood stove.

Parque Central Square, La Fortuna

Day 5 Arenal Volcano

Enjoy the sights, sounds and tranquillity of the rainforest as you quietly paddle along the Peñas Blancas River. Keep your binoculars ready as a wealth of exotic wildlife awaits you, including monkeys, sloths, and numerous birds. Your expert guides will regale you with enlightening details about the plants and animals you encounter. Soak up the serenity as you travel down the river and capture memories on your camera.

Meals: B

Day 6 Arenal Volcano > San José t

Make your way to the capital of Costa Rica, San José. En route, stop for a delicious lunch prepared using authentic, local ingredients at a traditional restaurant in Poas, then continue towards La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Situated within a private park at an altitude of around 5,000 feet, you can walk along the 3.5 kilometres of trails to visit the five waterfalls, cloud forest and rainforest areas, and the various exotic animal and flower exhibits. Continue to your Special Stay hotel, the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, a beautiful colonial hacienda set on a 30-acre coffee plantation. Relax for the rest of the day and enjoy its fine facilities. Tonight, exchange notes of your memorable Costa Rican holiday with your newfound friends at a nostalgic farewell dinner.

Meals: B.L.D

Day 7 San José

Say farewell to Costa Rica as you transfer to Juan Santamaria International Airport, taking with you a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Meals: B

The itinerary on this page is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. For full terms and conditions refer to pages 108-111. 3

Arenal Volcano

2 Monteverde Cloud Forest

1 San José

Costa Rica

Wildlife of Costa Rica

Costa Rica occupies just 0.1% of the world’s landmass, but is home to over 5% of its biodiversity. Wildlife abounds in Costa Rica and is home to many animal and plant species. A must for any wildlife enthusiast.

Combinable with the following Scenic Eclipse cruises: 16 Day Baja & Costa Rica Discovery (D11C) - page 48 14 Day Andean Coastal Exploration (D21C) - page 50 Visit sceniceclipse.com for more information Combine cruise and land and save up to 10% with guaranteed earlybird*

Your luxury escorted journey includes:

The intimacy of small group land journeys with up to 20 guests Memorable Scenic Special Stays t Fully escorted land journey led by an expert handpicked Tour Director and knowledgeable local guides Porterage throughout, plus return airport transfers All tipping and gratuities

Departure Dates

2022 Oct 05, 11

Tour code: OCSS

From £3,055

Deposit per person: 10% of cruise element at time of booking with further 15% deposit of cruise element 12 months prior to sailing. All prices listed are per person, twin share and include taxes, charges, international flights, connecting flights and required pre or post hotel nights. Single supplement prices on application. *Guaranteed Earlybird offer is up to 10% off cruise cost only when combining cruise and land tours. Please refer to the website for detailed itinerary information. For full terms and conditions refer to pages 108-111.

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