Costa Rica Nature Adventure | January 6-14

Jan 7 – Tortuguero National Park

Depart San José and journey through lush landscapes to San Isidro de Heredia, where you’ll Dive into Culture with master chocolatiers Julio Fernández and George Soriano. Learn the fascinating history and craft of    chocolate-making during an intimate workshop. Continue to Siquirres, where your adventure begins with a scenic river journey through protected wetlands to the secluded Tortuguero National Park. Glide along tranquil canals and lagoons surrounded by lowland rainforest, spotting wildlife along the way. Arrive in the charming Village of Tortuguero to meet local pioneers and gain a deeper appreciation of their traditional way of life before continuing to Laguna Lodge, your Stay with Stories. Built with sustainable materials and designed to protect its natural surroundings, this eco-lodge reflects Costa Rica’s commitment to preserving its remarkable biodiversity. This evening, dine at your hotel to the soothing chorus of cicadas and tree frogs.

Overnight: Tortuguero National Park                     (B,L,D)

Jan 8 – Wildlife Wonders of Tortuguero National Park

Begin your day with a morning cruise through the labyrinthine canals and streams of Tortuguero National Park, a pristine haven where lush rainforest meets calm, winding waterways. Keep your eyes peeled for howler monkeys in the treetops, toucans and egrets soaring above, crocodiles and turtles gliding through the waters below. Every bend in the river offers a new glimpse of the park’s remarkable biodiversity, a living tapestry of flora and fauna unique to this corner of Costa Rica. Later, visit the Village of Tortuguero to meet residents who have maintained their traditional way of life for generations, gaining insight into their culture, customs, and relationship with the surrounding rainforest.

Overnight: Tortuguero National Park                     (B,L,D)

Jan 9 – Sarapiquí Valley and Arenal Volcano

Bid adiós to Tortuguero as you journey through the scenic Sarapiquí Valley to Hacienda Pozo Azul, where a warm welcome awaits with a local lunch hosted by the Quintana family. Explore how this eco-friendly hacienda—originally created as a retirement project—has blossomed into an organic farm and adventure retreat, dedicated to sustainability and supporting the local community. Next, visit a local Tico family at their palm plantation, where you’ll learn about the careful cultivation of the delicate heart of palm and enjoy a fresh tasting straight from the farm. Your journey  continues to the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano area, a landscape of lush rainforest and dramatic volcanic peaks, which will be your home for the next two nights.

Overnight: La Fortuna area                           (B,L)

Jan 10 – Sloth Tour and Tortilla Experience

Immerse yourself in nature on an educational rainforest and sloth tour through a private reserve. While sloths take center stage, your guide will help you uncover the hidden wonders of the forest, from vibrant birdlife to rare tropical plants. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on sugarcane and tortilla-making experience, followed by a tasting of traditional Costa Rican snacks that celebrate local flavors and culture. The afternoon is yours to unwind at your own pace. Perhaps indulge in a soothing massage, sip a refreshing drink by the pool while taking in the  dramatic views of Arenal Volcano, or simply relax amid the lush surroundings.

Overnight: La Fortuna area                                (B,D)

Jan 11 – Journey to the Monteverde Cloud Forest

Enjoy a leisurely morning before traveling to the  enchanting Monteverde Cloud Forest. As you ascend into this mist-shrouded paradise, notice how the landscape transforms—the air cools, clouds drift through towering trees, and the lush greenery seems to pulse with life. Monteverde’s unique climate and elevation create a   sanctuary for countless species of birds, mammals, and plants, making it a haven for nature lovers and eco-adventurers alike. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge surrounded by lush greenery. This evening, enjoy an included dinner before gathering for a captivating  Pioneer Quaker Presentation. Meet descendants of    Monteverde’s early settlers, whose families courageously journeyed from Alabama in the 1950s to carve out a new life in this remote region. Through their stories, gain insight into the challenges they faced, the resilience they demonstrated, and the enduring connection they maintain with both the land and the community. As you reflect on the day, the misty cloud forest and its vibrant life provide a perfect backdrop, connecting you to the essence of Costa Rica—its people, its nature, and its enduring spirit of Pura Vida.

Overnight: Monteverde area                               (B,D)

 Jan 12 – Wander the Monteverde Cloud Forest

Embark on a guided excursion through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where hanging bridges lead you through the treetops for a rare glimpse of this thriving ecosystem. Walk among towering ferns and orchids as you listen for the calls of exotic birds. Later, soar above the canopy aboard the Sky Tram gondola, and for the adventurous, experience the ultimate adrenaline rush on the Sky Trek zipline (additional cost). This evening, gather with new friends for a memorable Farewell Dinner, sharing stories and reflections on your Costa Rican adventure.

Overnight: Monteverde area                        (B,D)

Jan 13 – Travel to San José

En route to San José, visit a working farm to see sugarcane, banana, orange, and coffee plantations. Learn about Costa Rica’s agricultural heritage and the production of local spirits made from sugarcane. Enjoy a final lunch before returning to San José, where the afternoon is free to relax or explore.

Overnight: San Jose                   (B,L,D)

Jan 14 – Depart San José

After breakfast, transfer as a group to Juan Santamaría International Airport for your onward flight, bidding farewell to the beauty, biodiversity, and Pura Vida spirit of Costa Rica.                      (B)