Engaging Discoveries… for our World Travelers- Encounter nature at its finest in two countries blessed with amazing biodiversity.
Learn about unique flora and fauna in Costa Rica’s Caño Negro Wetlands as you journey across water and land with our expert naturalist guide.
Step into a simpler time and place… El Castillo, Nicaragua is surrounded by rainforest and accessible only by river.
Explore the pristine Indio Maiz Biological Reserve, home to diverse wildlife including tapir and monkeys.
HOTEL INFORMATION:
Palo VerdeHotel Class: Superior First Class
Located in the foothills of the Arenal volcano, Palo Verde is close to all adventure tours, hot springs and attractions. Cabins are designed to accommodate singles, couples or families and are not identical in size or decoration. Each provides guests with a view of the active side of Arenal, and includes private bath, air conditioning, cable television and mini-bar. The property's focal point is the lagoon pool, which is accented by the surrounding rainforest beauty by waterfalls, natural sone walls and huge river rocks.
Cano Negro LodgeHotel Class: Superior First Class
Located in near the Cano Negro wetlands in northern Costa Rica, the Cano Negro Natural Lodge was recently certified as a sustainable tourism lodge. The 42 guest rooms include satellite television and in-room safe. A large restaurant and swimming pool is on site and guests can experience the wildlife, lflora and fauna in the on-site gardens.
Hotel VictoriaHotel Class: First Class
From its location on the main walkway of El Castilo, guests at the Hotel Victoria have views of both the monumental fortress and the rapids of the San Juan River. The 12 guest rooms are small but comfortable and internet access is available on the premises.
Termales del BosqueHotel Class: Superior First Class
Termales del Bosque is a Costa Rican family enterprise, dedicated to Preserving and managing the forest under the concept of sustainable development. The property is surrounded with natural thermo- mineral pools surrounded by forest where you can also enjoy an aromatic Sauna and clay applications. Rainforest site hot springs will help you find the peace and tranquility you so much long for. Pools vary in temperature and depth, and some vary in mineral content. Guest rooms include television and air conditioning. Dining is available on site.
Hacienda Pozo AzulHotel Class: Superior First Class
Hacienda Pozo Azul, a 2000 acre working ranch, has become the adventure destination that combines nature with comfort, the rugged with the modern, and relaxation with excitement. The 30 tent suites include hot water, private deck, and internet access. On site accommodations include satellite television and dining, as well as numerous outdoor activities.
Day 1 - Let the excitement begin...You’ll be warmly greeted at the airport to begin your exploration, starting at the fanciful Topiary Garden in Zacerro. Continue into the rainforest to the enchanting
Termales del Bosque Resort. Settle-in to your room, walk through the forest for a relaxing soak in the natural hotsprings, and enjoy dinner and a peaceful overnight. Meals D
Day 2 - Onward to mighty ArenalIt’s a scenic drive to Arenal Volcano where your expert naturalist guide leads a hike along the forested lower slopes, offering fascinating insight into the unique geology and ecology of the region. You’ll also learn about the history of this long dormant volcano, which erupted again in 1963 and has been active ever since. Visit the charming town of Fortuna with time to browse in the markets before continuing on to the
Hotel Campo Verde. Enjoy your comfortable, air-conditioned bungalow with superb views of the forest and towering Arenal Volcano! Meals B,D
Day 3 - Discover Caño NegroYou travel this morning into northern Costa Rica to the province of Alajuela, home to the Caño Negro Lagoon and Frio River. Together, these waterways comprise one of the world’s most significant wetland areas. After lunch you’ll explore the charming town of Los Chiles and visit the Butterfly Farm and Turtle Project, where you learn about the vital work being done to preserve endangered native species. Enjoy a leisurely 2-night stay at the
Natural Lodge Caño Negro. Meals B,L,D
Day 4 - Boat Safari in Caño NegroToday’s boat excursion brings you deep into the wetlands of Caño Negro. With our expert naturalist, this is a great chance to espy diverse fauna, including more than 350 bird species, iguanas, turtles and caiman. Meals B,L,D
Day 5 - Into NicaraguaJourney over the border, traveling by boat to San Carlos de Nicaragua and onward to the small town of El Castillo, founded in the 18th century. Enjoy lunch at El Cofilito, a charming locally-owned cafe with memorable views of the waterfront. In the afternoon, you tour the imposing fortress of El Morro, built by the Spanish to defend the land against marauding pirates. Today it houses a museum and library where you will learn about the history, culture and traditions of this remote corner of Nicaragua.
El Castillo is an extraordinary town with no cars and no modern paved roads. Residents fish and farm as generations have before. Some work in a nearby saw mill or palm oil plantation. After visiting the fort, there’s time to relax in your room at the
Hotel Victoria or to explore the village on your own; this is a delightful opportunity to experience the peaceful pace of a different time. Tonight’s exciting Nocturnal River Safari reveals crocodiles, resting tropical birds and other jungle wildlife! Meals B,L
Day 6 - Indio Maiz Biological ReserveThe Indio Maiz Biological Reserve comprises 640,000 acres of lowland tropical rainforest; it’s one of the most pristine and least explored regions in all of Central America. Here you’ll find rivers, mangrove estuaries, lagoons and lush forests home to a healthy population of wildlife including toucans, macaws, parrots, tapirs and monkeys. Enjoy a guided nature walk into the Reserve, visit local plantations, and try your hand at traditional fishing techniques. Later in the day, you’ll have time again to stroll the tranquil streets of El Castillo before retiring to your hotel. Meals B,L
Day 7 - The Sarapiqui LowlandsDrive back to Los Chiles in Costa Rica and continue on to Sarapiqui where you check in to the
Hacienda Pozo Azul. This magical experience finds you in a spacious canvas tent comfortably equipped with cozy beds, en suite bathroom, and your own furnished deck with terrific views of the surrounding nature. Settle in to your private tent before a naturalist guided rainforest walk to discover the unique plant and animal life of this lowland habitat. Meals B,L
Day 8 - Farewell to Costa RicaYour program finishes this morning. Meals B