Explorations Inc. is proud
to offer outstanding tour and travel adventures that highlight the very
best that Costa Rica has to offer. In this brochure, you can
read about affordable tour packages that allows you to explore tropical
rainforests, mountain cloud forests, towering volcanoes, tropical beaches,
scenic rivers, wildlife sanctuaries, colorful gardens, country towns, and
more.
For those wishing to extend your stay or customize your own unique itinerary, we can accommodate! Call and we can prepare a special quote for a trip to include your favorite activities or just a few extra days for relaxation and personal exploration. Options include river rafting excursions, horseback riding, mountain biking, trekking, turtle watching, water sports, exotic nature lodges and sportfishing. We can also arrange just airfare, transfers and hotel accommodations for an even more independent visit.
For many people, Costa Rica evokes images
of iridescent, blue morpho butterflies amidst a green carpet of ferns set
under majestic, towering trees covered with orchids and bromeliads. Such
images provide memories that last a lifetime. As often said; "The greatest
tourist attraction in Costa Rica is Costa Rica". Costa Rica is a lively
country full of scenic beauty and natural wonders; it is not a fabricated
theme park. The varied geography, creating a multitude of microclimates
and ecosystems, combined with a unique location between 2 oceans and 2 continents,
makes Costa Rica one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world.
The statistics of the wildlife and plant diversity are amazing, but not
as amazing as seeing a colorful macaw or toucan close-up or hearing the
boisterous voice of the howler monkey.
Costa Rica has long been regarded one of the world's premier nature travel destinations. In addition to the country's rich natural resources there is another significant reason it is such a great place to visit; the "ticos" or the people of Costa Rica. With its exotic plants and animals, Costa Rica may seem strange to many, but the gracious ticos make it difficult to feel like a stranger. The friendly people of Costa Rica have much to be proud of. They have enjoyed over 100 years of democracy and have not had a standing army since 1948. They now have 12% of their land in national parks and another 15% is protected in private reserves. Costa Rica's accomplishments in nationwide health care and literacy places it among the most highly developed nations. Its commitment to conservation and peace makes it a leader in the world community.
Our
Costa Rica Exploration explores a wide range of ecosystems and wildlife
habitats; from mountain cloud forests to tropical beaches. It has a strong
focus on learning about the different geographical areas and ecosystems
visited. The goal is to explore Costa Rica's grand diversity with an itinerary
that is conducive to the discovery of nature's secrets and to achieve a
better understanding of the Costa Rican peoples.
Day 1: USA Gateway - San Jose 
Depart Miami aboard LACSA Airlines scheduled flight to San Jose, the capital
of Costa Rica. Airport reception upon arrival and transfer to the luxury
Hotel Irazú. This large resort hotel has its own shopping mall, tennis
courts, swimming pool and sauna, casino, restaurants and bars. It also has
daily minibus shuttle to the downtown area and daily bus service to Jacó
Beach.
Day 2: Rainforest Aerial Tram
Day begins with drive through the rugged and beautiful Braulio Carrillo
National Park. Next comes a one of a kind adventure aboard biologist Don
Perry's Aerial Tram. An exciting way to explore the biodiversity of a rainforest
canopy with its countless species of plants, birds, mammals, reptiles and
insects. In the afternoon, you return to the Hotel Irazú via tropical
plant and macadamia nut plantations. (B/L)
Day 3: Poás - Arenal - Tabacón
Today's exciting journey begins with a drive through Costa Rica's lush Central
Valley to the majestic Arenal Volcano. The classic-shaped volcano has been
active since 1968. The 
frequency
and intensity of eruptions and the sight of lava tumbling down the slopes
is sure to impress. You can view this magnificent natural phenomenon while
relaxing in the warm waters and beautiful gardens at the hot mineral springs
of Tabacón. There is also an excursion at night for viewing the fireworks
of Arenal's eruptions! Overnight for two nights at Las Cabañitas
or Tijiari Resort near La Fortuna. (B/L/D)
Day 4: Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve
After an early breakfast, you're off to explore the Caño Negro National
Wildlife Refuge. By boat you will penetrate the tropical rainforest to the
1,600 acre Caño Negro Lake, in the midst of 18,000 acres of marsh
lands. The biological diversity is astounding and many of the species
of wildlife may be encountered nowhere else! Capuchin, spider and howler
monkeys, sloths, garfish, roseate spoonbills, toucans, herons and crocodiles
basking in the sun are a common sight here. A box lunch picnic is included.
(B/L)
Day 5: Jaco Beach
Enjoy beautiful and ever changing scenery in route to the Pacific coast
resort village of Jacó for a two night stay. Your seaside resort
for the next two nights is the Hotel Jacó Beach, complete with water
sport equipment, swimming pool, tennis, bicycles and more! The afternoon
is unstructured for relaxation or beach activities. (B/L)
Day 6:
Manuel Antonio National Park
A day to explore beautiful forest-backed tropical beaches, rocky coves and
nature trails in this lush coastal park. Manuel Antonio is famous for its
secluded white sandy beaches and it is home to huge iguanas, white-faced
monkeys and colorful birdlife. Time for nature walks, swimming, snorkeling
before lunch in nearby Quepos. (B/L)
Day 7: Carara Biological Reserve - San
Jose 
A morning exploration of the biodiverse Carara Biological Reserve which
is located in a transition zone between wet and dry forest ecosystems. The
primary tropical rainforests are a biologists dream come true with countless
species of plants and abundance of such birds as; scarlet macaws, guans,
trogons, wood storks, herons and motmots! Also commonly seen are monkeys,
crocodiles, coatimundi and dazzling butterflies. Afternoon return to the
verdant Central Valley for overnight in San Jose at the Hotel Irazú.
(B)
Day 8:
Transfer to the airport for flight home.
Costs Per Person
Starting at $895 in Double Occupancy, "Land Only", starting and ending in San Jose, Costa Rica. (Price to be confirmed upon verification of itinerary dates.) (We can assist with low-cost airfare from your home city.)
Included
- All accommodations in first-class hotels as listed or similar.
- All transfers and tours as listed in itinerary.
- English-speaking naturalist guides for listed tours.
- Meals as listed in itinerary.
Not Included
- Round-trip airfare from the USA to San Jose. (Call for airfare prices from your city.)
- Airport departure taxes. USA airport departure taxes, (currently $65), will be invoiced as a separate item and then be prepaid on your international air ticket. Costa Rican airport taxes (estimate $12 - $20, paid direct upon leaving Costa Rica).
- Personal items, liquor and beer.
- Gratuities to local guides and personnel.
- Meals not listed in itinerary.
Notes:
For Triple Occupancy deduct $70 / each.
For a Single Supplement add $220.
This itinerary can be operated most any week for 2 or more persons.
Explorations Inc is pleased to introduce this new and exotic tour. It highlights the beauty of several forest ecosystems in ways not available just a few years ago. New facilities for exploring the forest canopy are now allowing us to take a much closer (and safer) look at the forest, complete from bottom to top! Not only is the scenery and flora spectacular, the locations also provide excellent wildlife viewing. This tour can be operated most any week for two or more persons.
The cost for the 9d/8n, Costa Rica Rainforest Canopy Tour is approximately $895 per person, starting/ending in San Jose. The cost varies according to time of year. Call for a quote for your desired travel dates.
The tour package includes, airport transportation, land transfers, accommodations, daily breakfast, one lunch, and tours as listed. It does not include all meals, gratuities to local guides, optional activities, and Costa Rican airport departure taxes.
Day 1: USA Gateway - San Jose
Airport reception upon arrival in San Jose and transfer to the Hotel Irazú. This large resort hotel has its own shopping mall, tennis courts, swimming pool and sauna, casino, restaurants and bars. It also has daily minibus shuttle to the downtown area if your flight times permit exploring the city.
Day 2: Rainforest Aerial Tram
Only an hour drive from San Jose in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, the Rain Forest Aerial Tram is an unique Eco-Tourism and research facility. Your day begins around 9AM with drive through the rugged and beautiful Braulio Carrillo National Park, a 113,620 acres realm of primary forest in which some 6,000 species of plants and wildlife straddle the continental divide in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range and lead into the lowlands of the Caribbean. Next comes a one of a kind adventure aboard biologist Don Perry's Aerial Tram. (www.rainforesttram.com) The mile and a half tram ride takes about 90 minutes, with a naturalist in each cable car. On the outbound trip, the gondolas travel through the lower and intermediate levels of the forest. The way back is an exciting trip through the upper levels of the canopy, with a maximum altitude of 130 feet. The canopy is home to two thirds of all rainforest species, and the Aerial Tram site, possesses one of the richest canopy communities in the world. An exciting way to explore the biodiversity of a rainforest canopy with its countless species of plants, birds, mammals, reptiles and insects. After the tram ride you will have the chance to walk the bottom forest reserve and see the tropical life close up. Lunch in the park. In the afternoon, you return to the Hotel Irazú past tropical plant and macadamia nut plantations. (B/L)
Day 3: Monteverde Cloudforest
This morning you travel to the world-famous cloudforests of Monteverde with a drive out of the Central Valley to the Tilaran Mountain Range. After checking into your mountain lodge, The Hotel Heliconia, the afternoon is free to relax and explore the hotel grounds. (www.hotelheliconia.com) The Hotel Heliconia is located in Monteverde, with a privileged location, that places it near two of the most beautiful protected tropical forests in Costa Rica, the well known Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve and the Santa Elena Rain Forest Reserve (at 6 km). The hotel offers a perfect setting for the visitors who love bird-watching, nature photography and serenity of a mountain retreat. It has been designed to offer home-style comfort in the warmth of all wood construction. Every room has a single and a double bed with orthopedic mattress, private bathroom with hot water, and the luxury of a bathtub to soothe tired muscles. Other services available: Guided natural history tours, horseback riding, rubber boots, and laundry service, Jacuzzi, transportation to and from the reserves. (Optional visits/tours available include the nearby; Butterfly Garden, Orchid Garden, Canopy Tour, Skywalk, Serpentarium, Ecological Farm, Hidden Valley Trail, Cheese Factory, or the many arts/crafts shops and the Selvatura Walkways, whose canopy walkways feature eight bridges which make up a total of 2,400 feet of total length crossing through altitudes of up to 240 feet.) (B)
Day 4: Monteverde
This morning there is a guided hike in the lush Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The local naturalist guides you deep into the reserve to explore its many trails and explain the reserve's ecological importance. The afternoon is unstructured for relaxation and enjoyment of the lodge's facilities such as its private forest reserve with trails, or independent optional activities and exploring the village of Monteverde. http://www.hotelheliconia.com/tours.htm (B)
Day 5: Jacó Beach
This morning you will depart out of the tropical mountain rain forest, through the dry forest of Guanacaste, to the Pacific Ocean. Your seaside resort for the next three nights is the Best Western Jacó Beach, complete with water sport equipment, swimming pool, tennis, bicycles, restaurant, bar & discotheque, tour desk, activities program, and more! It is located on a beautiful 3-mile stretch of beach, offering 125 rooms with A/C, private bathroom, hot water, cable TV, phone. The afternoon is unstructured for relaxation, beach activities, or nearby optional tours. (B)
Day 6: Jacó Beach Pacific Aerial Tram
A half day tour exploring the canopy and jungle with a visit to the new Pacific Rain Forest Aerial Tram. Created to raise the world's consciousness as to the importance of the tropical forests, Tram allows you to discover the hidden secrets and hanging gardens of the transitional tropical rainforest from a totally different perspective. The Rain Forest Aerial Tram - Pacific is a new eco-tourism project with 222 acres of forest. The property offers not only one of the most interesting and exuberant forests in the Americas, but also showcases small waterfalls and scenic views of the Pacific Coast, which visitors can enjoy during the Tram ride. The nature trails allow you to explore the hidden secrets of the forest where, with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide, you'll learn how the forest grows from the ground up. Your choice of the Piedra Bruja walking trail: Explore the forest's secrets safely and easily while accompanied by an expert naturalist guide. (Duration: 45 minutes / Difficulty: Easy) Or the longer Waterfall hiking trail: More adventurous souls will enjoy this hiking tour up to the mountain, where you will discover stunning forest views, tumbling cascades, and more. After this exciting experience, you return comfortably on the Aerial Tram's gondolas. Duration: 2 hours / Difficulty: High (requires good physical condition). On site to visit is a Snake Exhibition and also a Medicinal Plants Garden, where you have the opportunity to experience a complete selection of medicinal, aromatic and condiment plants, as well as learn about their practical uses and unique characteristics. The afternoon is free for relaxation. (B)
Day 7: Jacó Beach
The is a free day for relaxation, beach activities, or nearby optional tours which may be arranged at the hotel's tour desk.
Three excellent day tour options include:
1. Another day exploring the canopy and jungle with a visit to the new Rainmaker Reserve and Canopy Walkway. (www.rainmakercostarica.com) The Rainmaker Conservation Project is a privately owned Rainforest Reserve that spans over 1530 acres of 90% virgin rainforest. It is a biodiversity bank for 70% of all the flora and fauna species found in Costa Rica. This project is dedicated to the conservation and protection of the Fila Chonta mountain range on Costa Rica's pacific side. Rainmaker's unique location places it within the strategic Quepoa Biological corridor. The Rainmaker Canopy Walk consists of a suspension bridge system, built to U.S. engineering standards. The six sections total 250 meters, spanning from platforms attached to massive hardwood trees to create the most impressive Canopy Walk in Costa Rica. The design permits minimal forest impact, giving our participants an opportunity to explore the majesty of the forest canopy from a bird's eye view. The guided River Walk tour begins with hike along the Rio Seco's edge. Hand rails and easy to follow footpaths along with observation platforms allow you to observe waterfalls and capture, with photographs, the rich biodiversity this unique site has to offer. Rainmaker is home to Morpho butterflies, varieties of birds, the colorful poison dart frog, and thousands of unique plant species. Depending on the time of year, visitors are also afforded sightings of incredible reptiles and other animals that make there way down to the water. At the end of the walk a pristine waterfall pool will beckon you to enjoy a refreshing dip.
2. A day exploring and relaxing at the Manuel Antonio National Park. The park is famous for its secluded white sandy beaches, forested-backed rocky coves, nature trails and it is home to huge iguanas, white-faced monkeys and colorful birdlife. The 3,000 acres of the reserve are often considered some of the most beautiful the country. Time for nature walks, swimming, snorkeling before returning to Jacó Beach. (B/L)
3. An exciting half-day tour for the adventurous to the Waterfalls Canopy. Their Canopy Tour consists of 13 platforms, 7 zip lines, a Tarzan Swing, a 3 story tree house, suspension bridges and a 90 foot rappel. While zipping over cables as high up as 100 foot above the ground, you get a bird's eye view of the rainforest canopy! Onsite nature walks in transitional rainforest and agro-forest areas teach about the 18 varieties of fruit trees, leafcutter ants, bamboo, royal palms, teakwood, the strangler fig and many other trees and plants. They also have a Butterfly Garden and a large 60 X 80 ft enclosure, where you have the chance to appreciate over 30 different species of colorful butterflies and a variety of frogs and toads.
Or, you could just sip Piña Colados on the beach! (B)
Day 8: Carara & San Jose
In the morning, you explore the Carara National Park. This biodiverse reserve covers a low mountainous area of 15,000 acres and is located in a transition zone between wet and dry forest ecosystems. The primary tropical rainforests are a botanists and biologists dream come true with countless species of plants and abundance of such birds as; scarlet macaws, guans, trogons, wood storks, herons and motmots! Also commonly seen with the help of the naturalist guide are monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas, coatimundi and dazzling butterflies. Afternoon return to the cool Central Valley for overnight in San Jose at the Hotel Irazú. The evening is free so you can rid yourself of excess money by shopping or at the casino. (B)
Day 9:
Transfer to the airport for flights home. (Note: You are welcome to extend your stay in Costa Rica.) (B)
One of Costa Rica's greatest attractions is its diverse natural
history. There is also a great diversity in available accommodations, travel
and tour packages. Trying to choose from among the many options and areas
to visit can be overwhelming, especially for the first-time visitor to Costa
Rica. The "good part" is that with all the options, it is easy
to design a "dream vacation" that suits your interests.
You are welcome to call us for more information and insights about a destination. Upon request, we can also send a suggested reading list to assist in your planning and educational enjoyment.
For those who would like to arrange their own itinerary or extend or Costa Rica Exploration, listed are some of the options available and the approximate price per person.
Extra Nights / Options
* Add $90 per night (room for one or two persons) for longer stays in San Jose at the Hotel Irazú. (Other hotels can be arranged if desired.) You are welcome to extend you stay just for independent personal exploration or to prearrange services and tours.
* There are many optional one day tours available from
San Jose that can be arranged. For planning references, various optional
tours with approximate costs are listed below. 
San Jose City Tour $45: Culture History The National Theater The Gold Museum The National Museum Souvenirs Factory. This excursion introduces you into the culture and the history of Costa Rica visiting the best museums, parks and historical sites of San Jose. We initiate our route passing by the Metropolitan Park of La Sabana lung of the Capital City, visiting the distinguished residential area of Rohrmoser with its Apostolic Embassy. Then continuing to Plaza Emeralda where you can observe or buy the finest Costa Rica handcrafts and enjoy an exquisite typical lunch as well. Later on, we will take the Paseo Colon up to The National Theater constructed on 1897. An art and architecture masterpiece. We will visit the Gold Museum and the National Museum, continuing to the Supreme Court, the monument to the first University on the Country, the Foreign Affair Minister, known as the Yellow House, the National Park, National Library, Supreme Court of Elections and the old districts of San Jose (Amon - Otoya & Tournon). Before we head back to the hotel, we will stop to have a cup of coffee at the tourist center "El Pueblo. Place were you can find over 60 different bars & restaurants 4 different discos, concentrates the nightlife of San Jose. Here you will have the opportunity to stay or to continue to the hotel. If you decide to stay at El Pueblo will receive special discounts at the galleries, bars and restaurants and will be pick up two hours later. * Includes. Entrance fees, lunch, snack, transportation and guide.
Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs $95: One of the most popular
tours in Costa Rica. The visit to the most active Volcano and the opportunity
to relax in the hot springs of the Tabacon Resort & Spa will offer an
unforgettable experience. In route 
towards the volcano we will pass by the Town of Zarcero to visit
its park and enjoy a delicious typical lunch. We will continue to Ciudad
Quesada capital of the region of San Carlos, zone specialized in cattle
ranch and agriculture, later you will arrive at La Fortuna the closest town
to the Volcano where on a clear day you will have the opportunity to admire
the majestic colossus. Costa Rica's most active volcano periodically erupts,
rumbling as it sends clouds of smoke and ash into the sky. Witness the spectacle
of the Volcano at night, watching the red lava snake down the mountain and
illuminating the sky like a magnificent display of fireworks. Take time
out to relax in the thermal Hot Springs and naturally heated Jacuzzis at
Tabacon Resort, so close that you will feel he rumblings of the Volcano.
Enjoy the different optional activities offered at the resort. *Includes:
Lunch and dinner from San Jose.
Bosque de Paz Biological Reserve $70
Braulio Carrillo National Park $65
Butterfly Farm $30: Learn all about the fascinating Butterfly as you explore its natural habitat, filled with hundreds of butterflies. The tour begins with a 25-minute film that gives and introduction as to what will be seen. Visitors will proceed to the packing plant, where on shipping days, you will lean about the sorting, packing process required for the exportation of the pupae. Tour proceeds to The Butterfly Garden, a tropical garden where perhaps over a thousand butterflies live their lives, feeding, mating and laying eggs. Guides may identify the most beautiful butterflies of Costa Rica, point out the females ovipositing their eggs on host plants and feeding on flowers. Visitors may touch the legs of butterflies and discover how they hold on to plants or try to find the lottery number on their wings. Topics such as the role of butterflies in nature, their defense mechanisms and those of their host plants are but a sampling of the many themes discussed. The entire cycle of the metamorphosis is shown. The tour culminates at the gift shop, where guests are afforded more opportunity for questions and answers. Those people that wish to indulge in souvenirs from Costa Rica may do so. * Includes. Entrance fees, transportation and guide.
Coffee Tour of Café Britt $30: Imagine following the journey of a coffee bean from the plantation - to the processing plant to a cup of gourmet coffee. When you take the Coffee Tour at Café Britt you'll do exactly that! Their professional acting troupe, dressed in traditional garb, will escort you through multi-media, interactive tour through the history of coffee. On their finca, as the plantation is called in Spanish, your day starts on six-acres of coffee fields, tropical gardens and coffee processing facilities. We'll teach you all about coffee cultivation - and not just by giving you the facts - feel free to pick a few ripe cherries to taste their sweetness or take a few of the dried beans home to grow a plant of your own! From the fields, we'll take you into our roasting and packaging facilities where you'll soak in the aroma of roasting coffee and learn all about this magical process that turns a red coffee cherry into a delicious cup of java. Then, in our theater, sit back and watch a multi-media play and presentation of coffee's place in world history. Learn about how deeply coffee culture is woven into the history and people of Costa Rica - and be prepared to have a few good laughs while you're at it. Although incredibly knowledgeable, our troupe has a rather short serious threshold! * Includes. Entrance fees, transportation and guide.
Horseback Riding $80: Beautiful horseback ride through the mountains nature paths - Horses available for all the levels. Make a beautiful horseback ride through the surrounding area of Ciudad Colon. Beautiful small town situated only 40 minutes from San Jose, driving on a paved highway, we reach Hacienda El Rodeo, where we mount horses and start our ride around nature paths that will challenge even the experienced adventurer. What better way to see the wealth of flora and fauna. Afterwards we will have a typical lunch to later relax on the patio of the hacienda and then begin our return to San Jose. From Jaco Beach and Guanacaste Beaches explore the mountains and forests, enjoying the nature and the panoramic views, while learning about the fauna and the beauties of the Tropical Dry Forest. There are horses available for all the levels. * Includes. Snacks, soft drinks, transportation and naturalist guide. (+ Lunch from San Jose)
Irazú Volcano & Orosi Valley $70: This tour offers a unique combination of a volcano, the old capital city of Cartago and the picturesque Orosi Valley, rich in colonial history. The trip begins by leaving San Jose behind and heading east for an hour, climbing up to Costa Rica's highest volcano. The top of the volcano has often been described as the only surface on earth that so closely resemble a lunar landscape. On a clear day, one can sometimes catch a glimpse of both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts from this imposing height. Then, after walking along the crater beds, the tour will continue to Cartago and a visit to the Basilica, the most important center of religion in Costa Rica. Soon we will descend to the historic and colorful Orosi Valley home of the first Spanish settlers, where you will have the possibility of visiting the ruins of the oldest Church of Costa Rica and the Orosi Colonial Church. Lunch will be served in a scenic country style restaurant. * Includes. Entrance fees, lunch, transportation and guide.
Palo Verde National Park $95
Poás Volcano & Sarchi Oxcart
Factory $65: The
Poas Volcano is located approximately one hour and a half from San Jose.
The picturesque drive takes one past coffee, sugar and tropical plant plantations,
and continues up through the cloud forest of Poas Volcano National Park.
Accompanied by your naturalist guide you will walk up to the top and 
observe the enormous crater with its deep green lake. This crater
is considered to be the largest crater in the world. Look deep into the
crater and see the still active steam and sulfur outlets. Lunch will be
served in a quaint typical restaurant. After lunch you will visit the village
of Sarchí, the artesian center of Costa Rica renowned for it's original
woodwork, handicrafts, and the colorful hand-painted oxcarts. * Includes.
Entrance fees, lunch, transportation and guide.
Poás Volcano & La Paz Waterfalls $95: This tour combination will let you experience in one day the Poas Volcano with his majestic and imposing crater at 2.708 Mts. high and its enormous crater, considered the largest one of the world and enjoy a magnificent view of the Central Valley. Accompanied by your naturalist guide you will walk up to the top and observe the enormous crater with its deep green lake. Look deep into the crater and see the still active steam and sulfur outlets. We will continue to visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a Nature Park that has a variety of climates including both Cloud and Rain Forest. Nine viewing platforms allow you to have a close a view of five magnificent waterfalls and La Paz River. Walking a naturalist trail you can get to Magia Blanca Falls (the largest one and the most spectacular of the falls in the area). Visit the Hummingbird Garden, where your feathered friends will fascinate you as they play and fight with each other. You can also visit the butterfly observatory with a beautiful collection of tropical jewels. The drive will take you through coffee plantations, sugar and strawberry fields; small towns and picturesque houses adorned by flowers of all colors. * Includes. Entrance fees, lunch, transportation and guide.
Sarapiqui River Boat Adventure & Poás Volcano $95: This complete tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy many highlights of Costa Rica in only one day, first by going to the Poas Volcano National Park, which has the largest craters in the world, and where you can experience the Tropical Cloud Forest at its best. Then continue to visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a Nature Park that has a variety of climates including both Cloud and Rain Forest. Nine viewing platforms allow you to have a close a view of five magnificent waterfalls and La Paz River. Walking a naturalist trail you can get to Magia Blanca Falls (the largest one and the most spectacular of the falls in the area). Then continue to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí. Here we'll board the boat to discover the richness of Costa Rica's nature traveling along the Sarapiqui River. The boat ride will last two hours, time enough to witness the magnificent rain forest and its habitants, such as toucans, monkeys, sloths, crocodiles and many other species. At the end of this river adventure you will come to a private farm to enjoy a home-style lunch. Then, you will be able to hike on one of the nature trails or explore the surroundings on horseback. In the afternoon, before returning to the city, you will enjoy the scenic view of the exuberant Braulio Carrillo National Park, as you drive through this spectacular park. *Includes entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, transportation and naturalist guide.
Rainforest & Rio Perlas Hot Springs $85: We will visit the City of
Cartago, first Capital of Costa Rica and its Basilica of Los Angeles, we
will pass by the Orosi Valley and we have the opportunity to visit the Ruins
of Ujarras, oldest church of Costa Rica. Then we will submerge you into
the Rain Forest of the National Park Tapantí. One of the rainiest
sites of Costa Rica, where it will be able to admire the wonders of the
rain forest in its entire splendor. We will make a panoramic tour throughout
the way that crosses the low part of this park, which we will complement
with a naturalistic walk, to appreciate more closely the natural wealth
of the rainy forest. Soon we will continue to visit the Orosi Colonial Church,
continuing to the oasis of the Barceló Rancho Rio Perlas Resort &
Spa which has everything what you need for one complete physical and spirit
recovery: thermal water sources, Jacuzzi's outdoors, and an ample range
of therapeutic and aesthetic treatments. * Includes. Entrance fees, use
of the facilities at the Barceló Rancho Rio Perlas Resort & Spa,
lunch, transportation and naturalist guide.
Sarapiquí River & Rainforest
Canopy $95: The
naturalist guide will pick you up at your hotel early in the morning to
start your journey of 1 12 hours to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí passing
through one of the most exuberant National parks in Costa Rica, The Braulio
Carrillo National Park. You will be able to enjoy the scenic views as we
travel. Once in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, you will board a boat
to discover the richness of Costa Rica nature along the sarapiqui River.
The boat ride will last two hours, where you will have the opportunity to
enjoy the magnificent rain forest and it habitants, such as toucans, monkeys,
sloths, crocodiles and many other species. Then you will arrive to a private
reserve where you will have the choice of reaching the Canopy starting point
by horseback or hiking. The Canopy starts with an explanation of the basic
principals needed to make this experience an enjoyable and safe one. This
is the adventure that lets you roam around the treetops leaping from platform
to platform, in a special system of steel cables using professional climbing
gear. Each one of the 15 platforms and the suspension bridge is a unique
experience in itself. After such an adrenaline packed two hours, you will
be able to enjoy a home-style lunch at the private reserve. This excursion
requires no previous experience. * Includes. Gear, lunch, transportation
and guide. 
Tortuga Island Cruise $85: Board a yacht at Puntarenas and enjoy The Gulf of Nicoya, and its beautiful archipelago, admiring the many sea birds, while cruising to Tortuga Island. Tortuga Island is known for its immaculate white sand beach and turquoise waters, a perfect stop for swimming and snorkeling. You will remain in the island for approximately four hours, where you can enjoy different activities such as: Canopy Tour, trails, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, beach sports or simply relax and enjoy the each, while the crew prepares an exquisite lunch - buffet style. * Includes. Breakfast enroute (from San Jose), light cruise, tropical fruits, soft drinks, lunch, live music, transportation and guide.
Tortuguero National Park $95: An expedition in the dense jungle of one of the most beautiful and scenic regions of Costa Rica. Travel along the exotic canals of the National Park Tortuguero, famous by solitary beaches where take places the nesting of the giant marine green turtles (Jul. to Seth.) Tortuguero is the most important site of nesting for the Green Turtle in the Western Hemisphere. Our journey will begin by crossing through the spectacular Braulio Carrillo National Park a dense cloud forest. After going down through the mountainous pass, you will reach the lowlands, and the beginning of the province of Limon, with its many banana plantations. A stop will be made for breakfast. The after traveling for approximately two and a half hours, you will reach the riverside where a specially designed boat will be waiting to take you through the system of rivers and canals that are found in Tortuguero National Park. The boat will slowly go up the canals to allow you the opportunity to observe the rich variety of wildlife to be found, and observe the thick jungle canopy above. Lunch will be served at the lodge soon after arrival. (There are overnight optional packages for this tour. ) * Includes. Entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, transportation and guide.
Tiquicia Traditional Evening $50: Traditions Folklore - Typical Food - Typical Dance. Come with us and enjoy a trip to Costa Rica past. You will enjoy a typical dinner with a spectacle of dances and folkloric traditions in one of the mountains that surround San Jose, where you will be able to admire the beautiful Central Valley with the Cities of Heredia, Alajuela and San Jose. Enjoy the flavor that distinguishes the ticos. Don't miss this unforgettable night! * Includes. Entrance fees, dinner, show, transportation and guide.
Traditional night dinner Pueblo Antigua
$50: Traditions Folklore - Typical Food -
Typical Dance Travel through time and transport yourself to the past of
Costa Rica. The unique presentation of Pueblo Antiguo, is a multi-media,
interactive tour through the history of our country, performed in the middle
of a reproduction of the old town of San Jose. Where all the colors of their
architecture, customs and traditions come together to show the origin of
this small country and its friendly people. The show is followed by a typical
dinner buffet. * Includes. Entrance fees, dinner, show, transportation and
guide.
White-water Rafting $95: In this excursion you have
the opportunity to be in one of the most popular rivers for this sport,
The Pacuare River, The Reventazon River, The Sarapiquí River, The
Saveegre River or The Corobici River. The Pacuare River, is one of the five
most important rivers of the world by its landscapes and fast rapids. In
this tropical river the trip is pure magic. Located in the Caribbean of
Costa Rica, the Pacuare River confines the Mountain of Talamanca, the home
to the native Indians of Cabecar and an immense variety of flora and fauna.
Once in the river you will go 16 miles on the Heart of the rain forest,
observing cascades, birds and diversity of Flora. The Reventazón
River makes the perfect trip for beginners the 12 miles of the river will
take approximately 2 hours until you arrive the city of Turrialba, during
the trip you will enjoy incomparable landscapes in the river more close
to San Jose. The Sarapiquí and Saveegre Rivers are ideal for beginners
and families. At the Corobici River the trip is excellent for bird's watcher
and nature lovers. Except for the Pacuare River, no previous experience
is required. In anyone of these rivers you will have a security briefing.
* Includes. Breakfast and Lunch from San Jose, and Lunch from Jacó
Beach and Guanacaste Beaches, transportation and guide.
* For independent travelers extending their stay, ground and air transfers are available throughout Costa Rica.
* Multi-day tour options that include transportation, lodging and some meals from San Jose include:
- Monteverde Cloud Forest 3D/2N: Explores the verdant cloud forest reserve with naturalist guide.
Discover the cloud forests of Monteverde and the abundant flora and fauna of the area. Enjoy the comforts of the Hotel Heliconia or similar, 2 breakfasts, round trip transportation and escorted tour through the reserve with a naturalist guide. $370/pp.
- Sarapiquí Rainforest & Rivers 3D/2N: Choose either a tranquil rafting float (or white-water) through lush rainforest with abundant wildlife. $300/pp.
- Tortuguero National Park & Canals 3D/2N: Boating exploration of the famous canal system running through lush Caribbean rainforest. Explore the intricate system of canals and the trails of Tortuguero National Park in this all inclusive package with transportation from San Jose, boat trips through the canals. Naturalist guide. $340/pp.
- Corcovado National Park 4D/3N: All-inclusive exploration of this famous wilderness on the Osa Peninsula. $655/pp.
- Playa Grande & Baulas Marine National Park 3D/2N: Explores (boat tour) this protected area, famous for its mangrove estuary, leatherback turtle nesting area, and unspoiled beaches. $360/pp.
- Pacific Coast Sport Fishing 3D/2N: A full day and a half of deep sea fishing in some of the best waters for sailfish, dorado, red snapper and marlin. $655/pp
- Arenal Volcano Fantasy: Includes. 5 nights accommodation plus room tax, 3 in San Jose and 2 at selected hotel in the Arenal Volcano area, breakfast, airport transfers, transfers between hotels, tour to Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs with dinner and entrance fee to the resort included.Best Western San José & Arenal Paraiso - 5 N / 6 D or Best Western Irazú & Tabacón Lodge - 5 N / 6
- Caribbean Fantasy: 5 nights accommodation plus room tax, 3 in the city and 2 at the Caribbean beach, airport transfers, transfers between hotels, tour to Poás Volcano & Sarchí or Irazú Volcano & Orosi Valley. Snack included. Best Western San José & Escape Caribeño - 5 N / 6 D , or Best Western Irazú & Suerre Caribbean Beach - 5 N / 6 D
- Guanacaste Fantasy: 5 nights accommodation plus room tax, 3 in the city and 2 at the beach, airport transfers, transfers between hotels, tour to Poás Volcano & Sarchí or Irazú Volcano & Orosi Valley. Snack included. Best Western San José & El Milagro- 5 N / 6 D , or Best Western Irazú & Sol Playa Hermosa - 5 N / 6 D
- Pacific Fantasy: 5 nights accommodation plus room tax, 3 in the city and 2 at the beach, airport transfers, transfers between hotels, tour to Poás Volcano & Sarchí or Irazú Volcano & Orosi Valley. Snack included. Best Western San José & Best Western Jacó Beach - 5 N / 6 D, or Best Western Irazú & Best Western Jacó Beach - 5 N / 6 D
- Lively San José: 3 nights accommodation plus room tax, airport transfers, City Tour, tour to Poás Volcano & Sarchí or Irazú Volcano & Orosi Valley. Snack included. Best Western San José - 3 N / 4 D, or Best Western Irazú - 3 N / 4 D
- Arenal Volcano: Enjoy the numerous outdoor activities of the Arenal Paraíso, located in a cloud forest reserve; mountain biking, hiking, and explore the nearby Arenal Volcano in this all inclusive package. Arenal Paraíso 2 N / 3 D
- Corcovado National Park: Discover one the oldest and virgin forests of Costa Rica. The adventure on this national park, includes a boat trip down the pacific coast, hikes through the park to observe an amazing variety of flora, and many species of animals including monkeys, sloths, agoutis, and numerous colorful birds. Marenco Lodge 2 N / 3 D
Click below to:
Send E-mail and request trip brochure. (Let us know which tours and when you are interested in traveling.)
Explorations Inc.
27655 Kent Rd
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Phone: 1-239-992-9660
or toll free 1-(800)-446-9660 (in USA, Canada, P.R.)
Call anytime to receive detailed trip brochures or more information!
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