Rascals in Costa Rica
Land for Independent Families
Trip Length: 16 days

Costa Rica is a wonderful family destination. A leader in "Ecoturism", Costa Rica--long before it became a general trend--has historically acted in a progressive manner o conserve its natural resources. Costa Rica boasts the highest literacy rate of all the American's countries, including the U.S. It has remained aloof from the conflicts that have shaken the neighboring Central American countries. Costa Rica is a peace-loving country, channeling its natural resources into health and education. Twenty-seven percent of Costa Rica's territory is legally set aside for national parks, biological reserves and forest and wildlife refuges. Costa Ricans are proud to share the beauty of their land with visitors and know how to make foreigners feel at home. "Ticos" (Costa Ricans) cherish children and always make families feel welcomed. Both men and women seem to be naturally sensitive to the needs of kids. Be prepared to be stopped in the street while people admire your "rascal".

Day 1
Upon arrival into the city, San Jose, you will be met at the airport by a Costa Rica Expeditions representative. Transfer to your hotel the Grano de Oro where you have a chance to enjoy the wonderful ambience this property has to offer.

Day 2
Your Costa Rica Expeditions guide will be at the hotel at 7:30 a.m. for your boat transfer to Freeman (about 3 hours) where you will meet up with your boat to continue the journey to Tortuga Lodge (4 hour boat transfer). Enjoy dinner and accommodations at the Lodge. (L,D)

Day 3
After breakfast enjoy a full day of excursions to visit the villages of Barra del Colorado and Tortuguero. Following a full day of activities return to the lodge for dinner and to prepare for your evening tour to see the famous Turtles!. (B,L,D).

Day 4
Today is free for your own exploration and optional activities. (B,L,D).

Day 5
Enjoy a full breakfast before departing Tortuguero, board your plane for a flight to La Fortuna. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon enjoy a relaxing time at the Tabacon Hot Springs. Overnight at Tabacon Lodge. (B)

Day 6
After waking up and viewing the volcano from the lodge with your coffee in hand, you will enjoy a full day of exploration of Arenal area-on your own or you can sign up for tours/activities offered in the area. Return for another evening of the spectacular sunset view of the Arenal Volcano at the Lodge. (B)

Day 7
Following breakfast depart Arenal and drive about 5 hours for your stay at Monteverde Lodge. Day is free so drive leisurely and in comfort. Remainder of the day at your leisure. (B)

Day 8
Begin the day with a private tour to the Monteverde Reserve. Visit the Monteverde Community high in the Cloud Forest setting. With an extensive variety of plant and animal species in the area be sure to keep your eyes and ears open. No journey to Costa Rica is complete without a visit to a butterfly farm. This afternoon a tour will be provided so as to learn about these amazing creatures as well as enjoy their beauty. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge. (B,D

Day 9
Day at leisure to relax and enjoy the optional activities offered in the area. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge. (B,L,D)

Day 10
Depart Monteverde for San Jose, prepare for flight home today or tomorrow, or Optional extension to Quepos at Manuel Antonio National Park, with sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and a tropical rainforest that is host to dozens of varieties of birds and animals such as ocelots, three--toed anteaters, two-toed sloeths, and white faced monkeys. Accommodations at Si Como No Villas. Driving time to Quepos is about 5 hours from Monteverde. (B)

Days 11-14
Activities on your own with accommodations provided at the Si Como No. (B).

Day 15
After checking out of the Si Como No enjoy a drive back to San Jose, about 3 ½ hours. Accommodations at the Grano de Oro.

Day 16
Today bid farewell to Costa Rica!. Transfer to San Jose International Airport for your return flight home.

Price on request and dependant on number of passengers, ages of kids, room-type and season traveling. INCLUDES: Accommodation each night, based on 2 rooms, meals as indicated, transfers, service of a guide per itinerary, tax and service charges.