The Best of Costa Rica Tour

The Best of Costa Rica is given at a leisurely pace with plenty of stops, using well informed, professional guides who will give visitors an opportunity to truly admire and understand the many wonders of this peaceful country.

We begin our ascent to Poas Volcano National Park, where we will soon relax and enjoy a cup of authentic Costa Rican coffee accompanied by a delicious tropical breakfast. After that, we will continue to Poas Volcano. On a clear day the colorful main crater, which is one of the widest craters in the world, comes into view. After this, we will enjoy a quick hike which leads us to the Botos Lagoon, an extinct crater, where many different ecosystems can be seen.

The next stop will be at the La Paz Waterfall gardens. At this park you will see not only the Magia Blanca Falls, which are the largest and the most spectacular of the falls in the area, but also the largest butterfly observatory in the world. After lunch we will continue to the Sarapique River. On the way we will stop at the La Paz Waterfall, were we spend some time to enjoy the splendid view and to take photos.

Once we arrive at Puerto Viejo ( Old Port), we will be ready to enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Sarapiqui River. Here, you can just sit back and observe the wildlife that is all around you. The monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and the variety of birds will allow you to relax and concentrate on the scenery. During the boat ride our guide will also explain the lifestyle of the friendly people that live near the river banks. Before returning to San Jose we will drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park´s unforgettable rainforest. This park is one of the most important rainforest reserves for Costa Rica.

Suggested gear: hat, light jacket, raingear, walking shoes insect repellent, binoculars and camera

Accommodations at your San Jose Hotel/std accommodations.
Best Western Irazu or Bouganvillea

Punta Leona resort is surrounded by 750 acres of lush tropical rainforest, pristine white sand, gold sand beaches and the deep blue waters of the Pacific. You will be swept away by the natural beauty of their private tropical rain forest and beach resort. Conveniently located within a ninety minute drive from San Jose, at Hotel Punta Leona you can experience nature without everyday discomforts.

Wake up to the sounds of over 330 exotic bird species living in the area. Participate in an early morning nature walk on our private wildlife reserve, rich in plant as well as animal life. Explore giant tropical trees and hundreds of fascinating plant species.

On this luxurious resort you will not be bored. There are several activities to do for all the different age categories. For example, you can maintain you fitness through water aerobics or learn to dance the Salsa and the Meringue. For the more adventurous, there are water sports , such as boogie boarding and snorkeling. The resort also offers different types of daytrips to the nearby sightseeing attractions.

Rates per person:

• 3 Nights at Punta Leona in a Selvamar room.
• Round Trip Shuttle to Punta Leona
• Buffet Breakfast

• Meals and services not mentioned
• Airline ticket
• Airport Departure Taxes (US$26.00 per person as May 2003)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal equipment
• Extras in hotels (phone calls, laundry, nor room service)
• Tips