Day 1 — San Jose, Costa Rica
Upon arrival, relax in your new surroundings and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 2 — San Jose, Poas Volcano, and Coffee Plantation
View the spectacular scenery of the Central Valley, ringed by soaring mountains, as you travel to the mammoth Poas Volcano. Walk to the edge of the crater for a magnificent view of this amazing landscape. Next, attend a tour of the Doka Coffee Plantation that highlights the importance of the coffee industry in Costa Rica. Tonight, gather for a special reception and dinner. (B,D)

Day 3 — Braulio Carrillo National Park and Tortuguero National Park
Braulio Carrillo National Park offers one of the richest rain forest canopies in the world, and it is the perfect introduction to the variety of forests in Costa Rica. En route to the park, experience spectacular mountain scenery, changes in ecosystems, and picturesque Caribbean-style villages. Stop at a local banana plantation where you learn about the crop's economic and social value to Costa Rica. As you board your transport to cruise the rivers and canals of Tortuguero National Park, your guide explains the rain forest ecosystem and points out sites of interest. A study in rain forest, freshwater, and marine biology, Tortuguero National Park protects over 350 species of birds and mammals, including endangered species such as green macaws and jaguars, as well as species of amphibians and reptiles. This includes 13 of Costa Rica's 16 endangered species, among them tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters, and manatees. Enjoy a memorable two-night stay at your eco-lodge surrounded by the beauty of a tropical forest and amazing wildlife. Learn more about your surroundings by visiting the world's first Green Turtle Research Station and discover how to protect the turtle's nesting habitat and eggs. (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Tortuguero National Park and Canal Cruise
During an early morning bird-watching excursion, learn about the variety of local species and migratory birds that flock to this area. Later, experience a spectacular boat cruise through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife, including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats, and caimans as well as exotic flora. (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Tortuguero National Park and San Carlos
A leisurely boat ride returns you to the mainland to travel to the fascinating Sarapiquí­ region. Stop at an organic pineapple plantation and learn about the various types of this exotic fruit and why Costa Rican pineapples are among the world's best. Your travels continue to San Carlos where you will spend three nights in a sprawling rain forest resort set amongst 35 acres of magnificent gardens and tropical fruit trees that overlooks the San Carlos River. Enjoy a tour of the botanical and butterfly gardens upon arrival. (B,D)

Day 6 — San Carlos, Rain Forest Walk, Arenal Volcano
Explore the nearby rain forest's diversity of flora and fauna during a morning walk. Appreciate the great variety of birds and mammals in the area, such as crocodiles, caimans, and giant iguanas. Experience the beauty of the geothermal region surrounding the impressive Arenal Volcano as you arrive at Ecothermales Hot Springs, a family-owned hot springs oasis. Enjoy a walk through the beautiful grounds, soak in the soothing, hot mineral-rich waters, or take advantage of the first-rate spa services. Enjoy a wonderful dinner overlooking Arenal Volcano. (B,D)

Day 7 — Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge
The Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge is a remote 20,000-acre jungle refuge with an amazing variety of birds and indigenous wildlife, including spider and howler monkeys and two-toed sloths. Embark on a guided riverboat trip down the Rio Frio to observe this exotic wildlife. (B,D)

Day 8 — San Jose
Returning to San Jose, tour the colorful Plaza de Cultural; the National Museum, which houses a collection of pre-Columbian art and other exhibits detailing the history of Costa Rica; and the National Theater, a magnificent building of post-baroque splendor. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell cultural dinner sponsored by a Rural Based Community Project. You will be captivated by the folkloric dances and traditional marimba music, presented by local performers. (B,D)

Day 9 — San Jose and U.S.
Depart San Jose for the U.S. (B)

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