PACUARE COSTA RICA ADVENTURE 9 DAYS-8 NIGHTS Visit us at www.wildland.com
Itinerary Overview This active Costa Rica adventure combines an array of outdoor activities with relaxing stays in luxurious eco-retreats. Journey deep into the heart of the rainforest and through enchanting highland cloud forests to idyllic tropical beaches. Your adventure begins at the award-winning Pacuare Lodge, but first you get to raft one of the most wild and scenic tropical rivers in the world to get there! Hike, kayak, ride horseback, explore the rainforest canopy, and visit an indigenous Cabecar Indian community. Delight in a tropical candlelight dinner before retiring to the serenity of your rainforest Linda Vista Suite. The adventure continues hiking, zip-lining and visiting with local "Tico" farmers and families in the highland cloud forests surrounding Arenal Volcano before arriving at a spectacular Pacific beach. Snorkel, surf, stroll along the beach, look for sea turtles at night, or relax poolside. Designed for active couples, friends and families, this trip combines adventure and relaxation into the perfect Wildland Adventure. DAY DATE OVERNIGHT HOTEL MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 ARRIVE Hotel Grano de Oro Arrival and transfer to hotel 2 PACUARE RESERVE Pacuare Lodge BLD Rafting Pacuare class II-III rapids with hikes 3 PACUARE RESERVE Pacuare Lodge BLD Pacuare rainforest reserve adventures 4 ARENAL VOLCANO Arenal Nayara BLD Rafting Pacuare class III-IV rapids with hikes 5 ARENAL VOLCANO Arenal Nayara BLD Zip lining and Hanging bridges, Vida Campesina Farm, hot springs 6 NORTH PACIFIC BEACH Pacific Beach Hotel B Transfer to beach accommodation and nature tour en route 7 NORTH PACIFIC BEACH Pacific Beach Hotel B Optional activities available Surfing lesson included for kids 8 NORTH PACIFIC BEACH Pacific Beach Hotel B Beach day at leisure 9 DEPARTURE B Transfer to the Liberia International airport -2-
Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: SAN JOSE Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport and transfer to the charming Hotel Grano de Oro, a renovated stately mansion built at the turn of the century and updated with the comforts and amenities of a modern hotel. Take a stroll down the street and explore the many fine restaurants, theaters and shops. Enjoy a tropical beverage in the open-air Jacuzzi and be sure to try the chocolate cake! DAY 2: PACUARE RIVER RAFTING - CLASS II-III RAPIDS Enjoy an authentic Costa Rican breakfast at a family-owned restaurant overlooking the lovely Orosi Valley then embark on your rafting adventure (1.5 hours). The wild and scenic Pacuare River winds its way through canyons festooned with layers of tropical forest. Be on the lookout for jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and myriad species of mammals and birds. The river alternates between the thrill and exhilaration of Class II-III white water rapids and the serenity of placid green pools that lie beneath breathtaking waterfalls. Arrive for lunch at Pacuare Lodge, an award-winning ecoresort perched on the banks of the turquoise river and enveloped by the rainforest, the palm-thatched, open-air bungalows of Pacuare Lodge are designed to blend into its natural surroundings with minimal impact while providing touches of luxurious natural comforts. The open-air restaurant features delicious gourmet cuisine and guests can relax in the cozy open-air lounge on wicker sofas and hammocks while recounting the adventures of the day. Completely off the grid, the charm and romance of the lodge is enhanced by its thatched bungalows tucked into the tropical foliage featuring plush couches, arm chairs and a king-sized canopy bed, bathrooms with solar-heated indoor and outdoor showers, and a large private deck with hammocks complete with a dipping pool fed by spring water. Relax in the breezy lounge in the evening as you unwind and share your adventures of the day. Overnight at Pacuare Lodge. [BLD] DAY 3: PACUARE RESERVE Awake to a symphony of singing birds as the jungle comes to life at dawn. Enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast then choose from a number of optional activities (not included) such as zip-lining, horseback riding, canyoneering or river kayaking. A short but challenging hike on native trails leads you from the Pacuare Lodge to a private reserve where a family of Cabecar Indians will teach you about their way of life in the tropical rainforest. Enjoy a therapeutic massage at the Lodge s Jawa Juü Spa. Overnight at Pacuare Lodge. [BLD] DAY 4: PACUARE RIVER RAFTING - CLASS IV RAPIDS Today s rafting adventure (3.5 hours) is interspersed with a picnic on the river and short hikes to spectacular waterfalls and crystalline pools that are perfect for swimming. Feel the exhilaration of each -3-
wave as you take on the surging Class III-IV rapids! Your Pacuare rafting adventure ends with the triumph of having descended one of the most wild and scenic tropical rivers in the world. Sit back and enjoy the scenic 3.5 hour drive through the Central Highlands toward the towering conical-shaped Arenal Volcano. Overnight at Arenal Nayara. [BLD] DAY 5: ARENAL VOLCANO ZIPLINING, HANGING BRIDGES, VIDA CAMPESINA AND HOTSPRINGS Ride the Sky Tram gondola to the highest point of Arenal Reserve to begin the Sky Trek, one of the most exhilarating zip-line canopy tours in Costa Rica. This system includes 8 cross-sectional cables with a total length of 1.75 miles elevated 66-660 feet above the ground. Then grab your camera, binoculars, and water bottle to explore the rainforest canopy through a series of hanging bridges winding through tropical tree tops in the primary forests surrounding the Arenal Volcano. Your local guide will help identify an abundance of wildlife including the white hawk, great curassow, rufous motmot as well as howler monkeys, coatimundis, sloth, and white-collared peccary. Recount the day's adventures in Costa Rica over a delicious Tico lunch at a familyowned organic farm. Here at Vida Campesina you will meet local farmer Don Erasmo Gonzalez and his family to learn about rural Costa Rican life on the farm. Sample freshly squeezed sweet cane juice from a hand-operated sugar mill (seasonal) and learn about typical Costa Rican crops including coffee, bananas, various tropical fruits and vegetables. Harvest vegetables in the garden before moving to the kitchen to make fresh tortillas as part of your tasty Costa Rican lunch! Your journey continues into the Central Highlands where you hike through a lush rainforest canyon and stop for a refreshing swim under La Fortuna waterfall. Continuing on to La Fortuna Hotsprings, a piece of paradise owned by Dona Mireya and her family, you enjoy a typical Ticostyle dinner served in an open-air rustic rancho. Overnight at Arenal Nayara. [BLD] DAY 6: GUANACASTE NORTH PACIFIC BEACH Pack your swimming suit and head to the beach! A private land transfer takes you to the north Pacific coast of Guanacaste (4 hrs driving) known for its abundant sunshine, wide sandy beaches, great surf and spectacular sunsets. Stop for lunch en route at Hacienda Solimar and explore the gallery forest of this privately held national wildlife refuge where three-wattled bellbirds, white-necked puffbirds, laughing falcon and great black-hawk can be seen. Be on the lookout for the impressive Jabiru stork that stands more than four-feet tall. A variety of other wetland species inhabit the area including wood storks, white ibises, roseate spoonbills, blackbellied whistling ducks, and crocodiles in the lagoon. There are two primary beach hotel options depending on your preference (subject to availability): Hotel Capitan Suizo at Tamarindo Beach or Hotel Harmony Nosara at Guiones Beach. [B] -4-
DAYS 7 & 8: PACIFIC BEACH If you re looking for more adventure, choose from an array of activities including snorkeling and kayaking tours, fishing, surf lessons, and hiking in nearby national parks (optional activities at additional cost). You may also opt for a quiet day relaxing at the beach or the hotel pool. A 2 hour surfing lesson is included for children traveling with their family. At Hotel Harmony Nosara you can experience an unforgettable guided tour where you will observe Olive Ridley turtles laying their eggs at the Ostional National Park (August to December). At Hotel Capitan Suizo you have an opportunity to see the giant Leather Back turtles at Las Baulas National Park (October to February). Overnight at Hotel Capitan Suizo or Harmony Nosara. [B] DAY9: DEPARTURE OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before your land transfer to the Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport in Liberia. Note: If staying at Hotel Harmony Nosara your international departure must be scheduled after 12 noon in order to allow time for your transfer to the Liberia International airport (2.5 hours). If staying at Capitan Suizo, allow for a 1.5 hour drive. END OF SERVICES Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives. PRICING AND DATES: For current pricing please click here: Pricing For scheduled departure dates please click here: Dates Private departures can be arranged. Please ask the Costa Rica Program Director for more information. **Sharing the room with 2 adults, maximum 1 teen per room Guaranteed to depart anytime with a minimum of 4 people paying full price. Check our web page for group departure dates. Prices valid until November 30, 2015. Surcharges may apply from December 15 to January 5. -5-
INCLUDED SERVICES All guided tours and excursions as noted in itinerary National Park entrance fees English-speaking local naturalist guides for included tours Private naturalist guide for the Arenal portion with drop off at the beach Airport-hotel transfers, internal air and land transportation Hotel accommodation and meals as indicated [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner] Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services Airport departure taxes NOT INCLUDED SERVICES Optional activities and tours as indicated in itinerary International airfare Tips and gratuities Drinks, alcoholic beverages and meals other than listed above Personal expenses for extra services, optional activities or changes in your itinerary beyond our control Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services or evacuation NOTE: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local in-country ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary; however, it is possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality (if upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply). All information and services provided are subject to our Reservation Form Terms and Conditions. -6-
Accommodations HOTEL GRANO DE ORO, SAN JOSE Hotel Grano de Oro is a renovated stately Victorian mansion built at the turn of the 20 th century and updated with the warmth and comfort of a private home. The thirty-two individually styled rooms, common areas, and corridors are elegantly decorated with watercolors, tapestries, and locally handcrafted furniture creating charm and character in traditional Latin American style and heritage. Hotel Grano de Oro is one of the finest boutique hotels in Costa Rica. It is located on a quiet street near many fine restaurants, theaters and shops. Meals are served in an intimate dining area and garden courtyard. The open-air Jacuzzi on the rooftop garden terrace is a perfect spot to begin your travel in Costa Rica. Services offered by the hotel include currency exchange, fax and mail service, in-room safes, wireless internet, room service, laundry service, cable TV, and international calls. PACUARE JUNGLE LODGE, PACUARE RESERVE Tucked away deep in the heart of Costa Rica s most pristine rainforest, the Pacuare Jungle Lodge is perched on the banks of the Pacuare River. The Pacuare Lodge is home to nineteen bungalows and a main lodge all designed and constructed to blend with the surrounding environment creating minimal impact. The ecolodge has been recognized as a stand out accommodation worldwide for its sustainability. The Pacuare Lodge philosophy of simplistic luxury and oneness with nature enhances guest experience by the romance of operating without electricity. Each spacious suite features a plush couch, solar-heated indoor and outdoor showers, king-sized canopy bed, a large secluded viewing deck with a hammock and private dipping pool fed by spring water with a nearly 360º rainforest view. The alfresco restaurant serves gourmet cuisine, wine and cocktails, and treatments are available in the Jawa Juü Spa. ARENAL NAYARA, ARENAL Enjoy the highland world of Costa Rica in comfort and style. Located on a rise with a spectacular view of Arenal Volcano, Arenal Nayara Hotel & Gardens is surrounded by a natural paradise. It is the perfect place to explore the region and to enjoy down time in nature. Each large bungalow provides ample space and privacy including a backyard, outdoor shower, and private front balcony overlooking the volcano. Bungalows include one king or two full sized beds, a flat screen TV and DVD/CD player, ipod stand, wireless internet, safety box (laptop capacity), A/C, stocked mini fridge, coffee maker and private outdoor volcano-view Jacuzzi. -7-
NORTH PACIFIC HOTEL OPTIONS CAPITÀN SUIZO, TAMARINDO BEACH Capitàn Suizo is an idyllic beachfront property in a privileged area, just outside of town at the quiet end of the bay, just a short walk to town and the popular surfing beach. Seven private thatched-roof bungalows (including the honeymoon suite) and 22 low-rise hotel rooms are set back under native trees nestled amongst lush tropical gardens where guests can relax around the natural stone pool, or step directly out to the beachfront. Some rooms have A/C and others are cooled by fans and ocean breeze, all include a balcony or terrace facing the ocean. The open-air beachfront a la carte restaurant is an invigorating place to start your day, and to enjoy dinners that are a fusion of European cuisine and tropical influence. It's a fun place for guests to become acquainted with Costa Rican culture listening to typical Marimba music with folkloric dance performances by local students and craft exhibits to support community artisans. An internet corner is provided, a full service spa is available, and Hotel Capitan Suizo is committed to its Certification for Sustainable Tourism. THE HARMONY HOTEL, NOSARA Harmony Hotel is the perfect combination of simple luxury, nature, wellness and sustainability on Guiones Beach in Nosara, a location renowned for its beautiful surroundings and impressive surf. The graceful simplicity of earth tones and crisp whites creates rooms that are rooted in nature and beach life. All 24 accommodations are on a path that meanders through a tropical garden overflowing with native vegetation where you can hear the sound of ocean waves. The private pathway leads to the warm Pacific surf on Playa Guiones, Nosara. -8-
Important information about Pacuare Lodge River rafting luggage instructions Maximum luggage weight per person in boats is 25 lbs (12 kilograms). Below is a list of personal belongings which should be packed separately in a duffel bag for the 3 Day-2 Night Pacuare Rafting Adventure; this will be carried in rafts to the Pacuare Lodge inside dry bags provided by the lodge. Lodge personnel will store your main luggage in their warehouse. Oversize luggage or exceeding the weight allowance will incur in an additional fee of $30. *Important notice for guests stowing luggage at Pacuare Lodge warehouse When storing luggage in the lodge warehouse during the rafting trip you are required to securely lock your bag. It is advisable not to leave valuables, passports or important documents behind in stored luggage; these items should be taken with you in ziplock plastic bags. Room safes are provided in each bungalow. Although we have never experienced any problem with theft, guests who leave luggage in storage will be asked to sign a form releasing responsibility for loss of personal belongings, so please don't leave anything of great value behind. At the river take-out your extra luggage will be delivered to you from storage whereupon you can shower and change into dry clothes at a private facility. Long pants, a shirt and light jacket/sweatshirt are recommended for the ride to Arenal. For timeliness and courtesy to others, you are kindly asked to have your river gear packed separately from the rest of your luggage at the time of pick-up at your hotel. Recommended River Clothing and Equipment List Two Day Pacuare Adventure 1. 1 pair of shorts to wear when rafting 2. 1 t-shirt or light cotton long-sleeved shirt for rafting 3. 1 pair of outdoor type shoes for hiking and use on the lodge grounds 4. 1 pair of tennis shoes or sandals suitable for rafting 5. 1 light cap with wide brim or visor for sun 6. 2 light cotton, long sleeved shirts for lodge 7. 2 pairs of light cotton hiking trousers; jeans okay, but not recommended, because of weight and drying time 8. 1 sweater or sweatshirt 9. 1 windbreaker: unlined Anorak, shell type, which can be tied around your waist 10. 3 pairs of underwear 11. 3 pairs of socks 12. 1 spare pair of glasses if you wear prescription lenses 13. Sunscreen or sun block 14. Insect repellent 15. Toiletry kit; no aerosols 16. Medications Optional Accessories 1. Waterproof camera (for rafting) or regular camera for rest of the trip 2. Heavy-duty ziplock plastic bags of various sizes to protect small items from humidity 3. Sunglasses with straps 4. Binoculars -9-
Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling 1-800-345-4453. Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release of Liability. Deposit requirements are as follows:* $700 per person for all trips in Central America. *Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered or if permits to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance. CUSTOM TRAVEL This trip isn t exactly what you re looking for? We are happy to design a private, custom itinerary to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at 1-800-345-4453, send an email to info@wildland.com or use the Ask the Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on our website. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person 91 or more: $300 61-90 days: Initial deposit amount 31-60 days: 50% of land cost 30 or less: 100% of land cost PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Pre-departure Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure. REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a 1-800-345-4453 or email info@wildland.com. We re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. -10-