WELCOME TO COSTA RICA

Discover how Costa Rica earns its reputation as a natural wonderland on this two-week adventure through one of the most exciting, striking, and socially progressive countries in Central America. Literally translated as the 'rich coast', Costa Rica is a land of varied topography and broad spectrum of ecosystem; between its borders, Costa Rica encompasses white-sand Caribbean beaches, volcanic mountainscapes, lush, velveteen jungle, low-lying plains and swampland, all of which combine to house enormous populations of diverse wildlife. A short foray into Nicaragua gives us the opportunity to see historic churches, cathedrals and stone-carved statues, as well as enjoy some first-rate animal sightseeing. We finish at Manuel Antonio National Park where we enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

ITINERARY IN BRIEF
For detailed itinerary (PDF), click here
For hotel samples, click here.

Day 1 • Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica.

Day 2 • Travel through Braulio Carrillo National Park to a working banana plantation. Riverboat excursion to Tortuguero National Park.

Day 3 • Boat ride alongside lush rainforest. Afternoon expedition to Tortuguero to visit the museum and turtle centre.

Day 4 • Travel to the volcanic Arenal area via Baldi Hot Springs. This area may yield the chance to witness explosions and lava flows from safety.

Day 5 • Travel to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Guided tour of the Butterfly Garden.

Day 6 • Naturalist-guided tour of Monteverde Cloud Forest. Optional Canopy Walk excursion in afternoon.

Day 7 • Travel to Granada, Nicaragua.

Day 8 • Visit the most interesting sites in Granada on walking tour.

Day 9 • Return to Costa Rica and enter Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

Day 10 • Walk along Las Pailas Trail to view the volcanic activity of Rincon de la Vieja.

Day 11 • Travel to Quepos, gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park.

Day 12 • Leisurely walk through Manuel Antonio National Park.

Day 13 • Return to San Jose.

Day 14 • Departure from San Jose.

INCLUSIONS Accommodation Internal transportation Breakfasts and most dinners Sightseeing and entrance fees Tips for hotel, porters, drivers Transfers (Land/Air) Services of a Tour Leader

EXCLUSIONS Lunches and some dinners Drinks Items of a personal nature Air departure taxes/fuel surcharges Visa fees (if applicable) Transfers (if early/late) Transfers (if Land Only) Tour Leader gratuities

OUT FACTOR

In the past ten years Costa Rica has emerged as one of the world’s premier vacation hot spots. And in disproportionate numbers, gay travellers have descended upon this eco-friendly destination with full force. It's a very comfortable place for gay travellers, and most of the foreigners who have moved there to open inns and accommodations (e.g., Americans, Canadians, Europeans, etc.) tend to be on the left-leaning, eco-conscious, and gay-friendly side.

PLEASE NOTE

This itinerary is correct at time of publishing. For a more detailed itinerary, download a PDF here. We reserve the right to make changes as necessary due to reasons beyond our control. For booking terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Terms.