Natural Jewels of Costa Rica

Airport transfers provided by NHA, all activities, accommodations and land transportation as described in the itinerary, baggage porterage, meals from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on the final day, soft drinks with meals and purified drinking water with meals and activities, services of NHA Expedition Leader, driver, local guides and lodge staff, most gratuities, all permits and entrance fees.

The tour fare does not include round-trip transportation from your home city to San José, Costa Rica; internal flights within Costa Rica (these have been added to your invoice and will be handled by NHA); alcoholic beverages, some gratuities, passport and visa fees, optional activities, items of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, etc.), airport and departure taxes, optional travel insurance.

Moderate
This adventure does not require a high degree of physical fitness, though our days in Costa Rica generally start quite early and are very full with activities. In order to participate in daily excursions, travelers must be able to walk unassisted for a minimum of two miles over uneven terrain and potentially muddy, slippery surfaces, up and down inclines and steps with some altitude gain. In Tortuguero and Corcovado, expect to be engaged in two three-hour excursions per day in very hot and humid conditions. In order to get to Casa Corcovado and participate in all activities there, travelers will need to be able to wade into the ocean, potentially knee-deep, over slick rock, rolling pebbles and sand, sit on the flat edge of a small boat and swing both legs over the side. Sea conditions may make for a bumpy ride, and we may at times be in the boat for up to an hour at a time. Although the boat is equipped with a sun shade, travelers may be exposed to the full intensity of the sun, as well as wind, rain and sea-spray. There will be an option to snorkel—no prior experience required, but at a minimum, travelers will need to be able to swim at least 50 meters and will be expected to jump into the water from the side of the boat and climb a 4-rung metal ladder to re-enter the boat from the water. This itinerary includes a number of short- to medium-length walks over a variety of terrain, including gravel, pavement, boardwalks and dirt trails, sometimes over large roots and rocks (note that all walks can be more difficult to navigate during inclement weather). Travelers should be aware that the heat and humidity will be very high in Tortuguero and Corcovado and roads may be bumpy.

Costa Rica encompasses some of the earth’s greatest natural treasures. This adventure focuses on the “jewels” – the most spectacular natural highlights – within this beautiful country. Our Expedition Leader and driver accompany our small groups to remote areas that reveal the splendors of the rain forest and cloud forest. Fairly long drives are a necessity on this trip.

Arrive in San Jose by 4:30 pm in order to make it to the hotel in time for a 6 pm welcome dinner on Day 1. You may depart anytime on the final day. We can best serve you if our Natural Habitat Adventures Travel Desk makes your reservations, as our staff is intimately familiar with the special requirements of this program and can arrange the most efficient travel. Please call us at 800-543-8917. Note that while we offer you the best possible rates available to us on airfare and additional nights' accommodations, you may find special web rates or better fares online.