DeWolfe Sample Itinerary Costa Rica

Day 1 - Arrive and Drive to (Grano de Oro)

Today we will meet you outside of the airport and take you to one of San Jose's finest hotels. The Grano de Oro is small but it has become one of the best hotels in the area. The resturaunt is one of the things that brings it the charm but also having being built from the era of the coffee boom and being preserved to almost perfect standards, it makes for a great spot after a long day of travel. (Meals: None)

Day 2 - Visit Poas Volcano Crater & Drive to the Arenal Volcano (Nayara Resort)

Today we will take you to the Poas Volcano. You will have the chance to visit the crater. We make the drive to the top of the volcano which is at almost 10,000ft and then we hike through the cloud-forest that then opens up to the beautiful crater of Poas. It smells of sulfur up at the top so we will only stay for around 20 mintues; but the views of the active crater are well worth the short visit. After the crater we will make our way to another volcano but this one is a bit different. This is the famous Arenal Volcano and is one of the most active on the planet (happens to be in the top 10 for active voclanos). This perfectly cone-shaped volcano makes for some of the best vistas and you can see it right from your hotel room. The Nayara Resort is another great hotel. If you take a look at Tripadvisor it goes to show that everyone and I mean everyone loves this place. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 3 -  Zipline Adventure & Nature Reserve (Nayara Resort)

Today we will let the adventure begin with the best zipline in all of Costa Rica. This is an amazing adventure through the rainforest of Costa Rica. There are over 100 ziplines here and this without question is the best. Not only is it the fastest, highest, and safest, but you get amazing views of the volcano and the rocks rolling down the side of the volcano. After the zipline adventure we plan on taking a short nature hike that will give you a little taste of the tropical jungle of Costa Rica. This is a private reserve and you will be seeing some sloths, monkeys, and many different species of birds. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 4 -  Canyoneering & HotSprings  (Nayara Resort) 

Canyoneering

If Day 3 was not enough adventure then you will love the canyoneering adventure. You will make your way down a canyon in the Costa Rican rainforest and arrive at three different waterfalls where the only way down is to hook on and rappel down. It is an adventure that people of all ages have done. This is a thrill you will surely remember and the kids will love it. After the canyoneering adventure we promise to give you a little bit of a break as you enjoy the thermal waters and an amazing dinner and just your time to relax. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5 - Drive to the Pacific Beach (Arenas del Mar Resort)

When it comes to Costa Rican beaches there is none other like the Manuel Antonio Beach. It is pristine and picturesque. If I had to pick my favorite place to stay on the coast it would be without question the Arenas del Mar which has stunning views of the Pacific Coast. You hear the waves crashing from the ocean and since it is where the rainforest meets the ocean the canopy keeps you cool during day and night. We will leave the Nayara Resort in the morning and get to the beach just after lunch giving you some time to explore the hotel and some time in the water. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 6 - (Arenas del Mar Resort) 

Today is your day to explore. The area is known for the Manuel Antonio National Park which will give you a nice hike, beautiful beaches, and an endless amount of monkeys if you have not already have had enough. Another option would be just to relax at the beach or enjoy the pool at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 7 - (Arenas del Mar)

Today is your day to relax. You can finish the book you are reading or enjoy some of the other optional tours in the area which might include snorkeling, spice tour, ATV's, river rafting, and much more if your up for it. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 8 - Fly Home!

Man, this branch is small...

Today we will meet you at the hotel lobby and be taking you to the San Jose airport. The drive to the airport is around 2 1/2 hours and you will need to arrive around 2 hours before. (Meals: Breakfast)

Susan Benjamin Sample Itin March 2011

Canyoneering Adventure

Day 1 --  19th March --- Arrive and Drive to (Nayara Resort)

Today we will meet you outside the airport and take you to your first hotel. We will make the drive from the airport which is 2 1/2 hours and get to the Nayara Resort which is well worth the long day of travel.  (Meals: None)

Day 2 --------- Canyoneering Adventure (Nayara Resort)

 Today we will do one of the best adventures in the country which is the canyoneering. This is an amazing adventure where you get soaked and rappel 5 different waterfalls. Arenal hotel which is in front of the famous Arenal Volcano, one of the ten most active volcanos on Earth.  (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 3 ----- Zipline & Hike to La Fortuna Falls (Nayara Resort)

If the rafting was not enough adventure then I think today will do the trick. The zipline is eight different cables that hang over 700ft above the rainforest floor. There are many different ziplines in the country and this by far is the best. Not only is it one of the highest and fastest but it has amazing views of the boulders rolling down the side of Arenal. After the zipline we will make our way to La Fortuna Falls, a beautiful waterfall and also a great hike. The swim you can enjoy at the bottom of the waterfall. is worth the hike. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 4 ----- Drive to Pacific Coast (Casa Belmar)


CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO OF CASA BELMAR THIS PLACE IS AMAZING

Arenal Volcano

 Today is a travel day and we will make some stops along the way. If you want you have the option to fly which is just a way of cutting down the drive time but either way it is not a bad day of traveling.  It is almost a five hour drive but the landscape is beautiful and we promise to keep it interesting. We'll plan on leaving early and our destination will be where the mountains meet the sea on the southern Pacific coast.  (Meals: Breakfast & Dinner)

Day 5 ----- Raft Savegre & Beach in Afternoon (Casa Belmar)

Today before you bum around on the beach I think we should go rafting on the Savegre River. This is a beautiful river surrounded rainforest from start to finish.  This will only take a half day and you will have the afternoon to enjoy the warm water of the Pacific. We will eat lunch at the top of the waterfall. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 6 --------- Beach Day (Casa Belmar)


Day to relax on the beach if you want to look for some adventure no worries we will make it happen. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 7 --------- Beach Day (Casa Belmar)

Pacific Coast

Today is your day to relax. There are so many beaches in the area so it is fun to explore different beaches if you are up for it. It is a short drive to different beaches and just the chance to relax, read a book, or if the kids want to try surfing we can have some boards for them to give it a try. (Meals: Breakfast)


Day 8, 26th March --------- Fly Home!

Today we will make the drive to the airport. It is a two hour forty minute drive to the airport and we want to be there two hours early so afternoon flights would work best.  (Meals: Breakfast)

Gregory & Marisol Sample Itin

Feb 5th ----------- Arrive (Grano de Oro Hotel)

Today you will arrive and we will take you to the Grano de Oro Hotel. This happens to be one of the best hotels in all of the Central Valley. It is a great place to rest after a day of travel. It is located 15 minutes from the airport. (Meals: None)

Feb 6th ----------- Visit Irazu Volcano Crater (Casa Turire Hotel)

Today we will make our way to the Irazu Volcano. This is the highest volcano in all of Costa Rica and opens itself to some of the best views. We will be over 10,000ft. This is a short hike when we get to the top and a chance to look into the crater. After the visit to the volcano we will then make our way to the valley of Turrialba where you will be staying at the Casa Turire Hotel. This also is one of my favorite hotels in the country. The hotel is located on a lake and you will have a view of the active volcano of Turrialba. We stay here for the night to put us in position for rafting the Pacaure River. (Meals: Breakfast)

Feb 7th --------- Raft Pacuare River & Drive to Arenal Volcano (Casa Luna Lodge)

Don't Fall Out Gregory!!!

National Geographic has this river listed as one of the top 5 rivers to raft on the planet. You will have your own private raft and go at our pace allowing us to make stops along the way as we make our way down the rainforest on the three hour river run. After the river we will then make the drive to one of the ten most active volcanoes on Earth and that is the Arenal Volcano. We will be staying at Casa Luna Lodge which is located just infront of the Arenal Volcano and you will have amazing views of the volcano day and night. On this evening you will have a very nice dinner at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Feb 8th ---------- Zipline & La Fortuna Falls (Casa Luna Lodge)

Arenal Volcano

If rafting was not enough for you then hanging from a cable that is strung 700ft above the rainforest floor with perfect views of the boulders rolling down the side of the volcano. This is one of those activities that you cant believe you did after you did it. Heck your boss Joe Brecko did it and we plan on making him the poster guy of this tour for 2011. After the zipline we will head to town where you can souvenir shop or I will take you to some of the interesting local spots if you are in the mood and also visit one of them most beautiful waterfalls in all the tropics, La Fortuna Falls. (Meals: Breakfast)

Feb 9th ----------- Canyoneering & HotSprings (Casa Luna Lodge)

Canyoneering
(Marisol is gonna get wet!)

Today is canyoneering which is another amazing adventure. You will make your way down a canyon that is located in the middle of the rainforest and is home to 3 different waterfalls 2 of which are over 160ft. When you make it to these waterfalls you will have to rappel to make your way down. In the afternoon we will take you to one of the most relaxing places you can imagine which is the thermal waters from the volcano. You will also enjoy another very nice dinner here. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Feb 10th ---------- Drive to Manuel Antonio (Espadilla)

Today is a travel day but we will leave after breakfast so you have time to enjoy the beach after lunch. We will be taking you to the Pacific Coast of the Manuel Antonio area which I consider the nicest beach in the country because it is where the jungle meets the ocean. (Meals: Breakfast)

Feb 11th ----------- Tour National Park (Espadilla)

La Fortuna Falls
(Great for a Pic of Gregory & Marisol)

One of the most amazing parks in the country and guaranteed all the monkeys you can handle. The hotel we have you at is located near the park and walking distance to the beach and the best part is at 4pm the squirrel monkeys make there way to the park through the hotel grounds. This species is absolutely adorable and people come to Costa Rica just to see it because this is the only area on the planet where you can find it. What many people dont know is that they pass through Espadilla everyday. The will be a great experience with one of our naturalist guides giving you a private walk through the park. The afternoon you can enjoy on the beach. (Meals: Breakfast)

Feb 12th ----------- Fly Home!

Miami Country Day Costa Rica 2011

Day 1 - Jan 30th ----------------------- Arrive and Drive to Turrialba (Turrialba Hotel)

ATTENTION PARENTS & FRIENDS: STAY UPDATED DAILY ON THIS ADVENTURE 

CLICK HERE MIAMI COUNTRY DAY COSTA RICA BLOG 

Today we will meet you at the San Jose airport and then make our way to the Turrialba area. We'll be driving through the capital city of San Jose where you will get a history lesson on the Central Valley of Costa Rica and how San Jose was developed into Costa Rica's capital. As we drive out of the Central Valley we will pass the base of Costa Rica's tallest volcano, the Irazu Volcano. Then we'll head around to the Turrialba Volcano which is active as you will see from it's phreatic steam-like eruptions. (Meals: Dinner)

Day 2 - Jan 31st ------------------------ Raft Pacuare River and Drive to Arenal Volcano (Arenal Hotel)

Pacuare River Rafting Adventure

Today we will raft what National Geographic has rated as one of the top five scenic rivers on the planet. This is an amazing three hour rafting trip through a Costa Rican virgin rainforest. This is a great way to begin the week getting on the inside of the rainforest, feeling some adventure, and getting plenty wet! After the rafting we'll make drive to Arenal Volcano which happens to be one of the 10 most active volcanoes in the world. This is something I can assure you that the kids have not seen in Miami nor will ever see. The hotel we are staying at has amazing views of the Arenal Volcano and we will be able to see the top smoking from your rooms and hopefully if it is clear at night some lava. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3 - Feb 1st -------------------------- Hanging Bridges, Zipline Adventure, Community Service Project (Arenal Hotel)

Arenal Volcano

Let the education begin as we walk through the rainforest and experience it from a canopy level. This is one of the most educational walks in all the country and our naturalist guide will open your eyes to the many wonders of the rainforest. After the hanging bridges we will spend some more time in the canopy but at a different speed and with a little more adrenaline involved. There are a number of ziplines in the country and this is by far the best there is. Not only will you have views of the active volcano Arenal and the boulders rolling down the side of it but you will be zipping 700ft above the rainforest floor!!! After the zipline we will be giving back for a few hours of community service. The project we will be doing is building recycle bins for a Costa Rican school located in a rural area. This is a great way to show a message that many Costa Rican's need and make a nice donation to a school that could use it.  (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4 - Feb 2nd ---------------------- Waterfall Swim, National Park, and Organic Farm (Arenal Hotel)

If you are up to seeing one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of the tropics then you do not want to miss this day. We will be hiking from the hotel to La Fortuna Falls. It is a bit of a hike but well worth it when we get down to the bottom. The hiking continues as we make our way to the Arenal Volcano National Park. This hike is about as flat as Miami so it is quite different than the hike down to the bottom of the waterfall which is not flat ground. We will get an up close look and learn everything we need to know about volcanoes of Costa Rica. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5 - Feb 3rd ----------------------- Boat Ride to Monteverde and Night Walk (Monteverde Hotel)

"Hola, Miami Country Day!"

After we wake up and eat breakfast we will go to the Lake Arenal where we will board a boat and head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. With the many reasons Costa Rica has become famous there might not be none other as important to lovers of nature and educators than the Monteverde Cloud Forest. This is such a unique place that you will experience weather and scenery that has been home to a large number of species of plants and animals so it must be worth checking out if they all found something nice about it. When we arrive we will check into the hotel and then in the evening take part in a night hike. This is a great experience to be able to see all the activity that goes on in the cloud-forest while we are sleeping. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 6 - Feb 4th ----------------------------- Drive to Airport and Fly Home!

Today we'll head back to the airport (SJO) and make the short flight home to Miami.

St. George Costa Rica Adventure

Day 1 --- Arrive and Drive to Sitio de Mata & Tour of San Jose (Homestay) 


CLICK HERE TO MEET HOMESTAYS FAMILIES

Homestay Room

Today you will arrive on the early morning flight and we will meet you at the airport. From the airport we will drive through the capital city of San Jose giving the kids a chance to see the city and talk about some of the history of Costa Rica and the basic information of the area. When we leave San Jose we will have a 1 1/2 hour drive to our homestays located in Sitio de Mata. When we arrive at the homestays the kids will feel at home.  All of the homestays will be waiting for us and we will split up into the different homes. The best part about this village is that all houses are within short walking distance of each other.
(Dinner)

Day 2 --- Community Service School Visit & Soccer Game (Homestay)

If you do a drive at school this would be an excellent day to bring some school supplies.

Visiting Local School

Today is a day to get to know the village a bit and what better way than to visit a local school. This is agreat chance for the kids to practice their Spanish and get a feel for the educational system here in Costa Rica and how the kids from this culture live their everyday lives. After we spend some time at school the kids will head back to their homestays for lunch where they will eat, rest, and then get ready for the local  soccer game we have planned. The kids love this and the whole village shows up for the fun.
(Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 3 --- Cooking Class, Dance Class, & Recycle Crafts (Homestay) 

Hanging at the Homestay

Call this a learning day. The kids will get a feel for the local culture when they learn how to cook some of the dishes from Costa Rica. After we cook for a bit we will then loosen up and hit the dance floor where the kids will learn to Salsa and Merengue which will get them ready for the final night here in the village. After the dance class we will go over the importance of recycling and see some amazing crafts as the kids learn to make something out of everything. (Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 4 ---  Community Service & Farewell Dinner  (Homestay)

Today we will be giving back to the community that has given so much to us. The project will consist of some different activities from planting trees in the area, trash along rivers, and/or woking on trails for the nearby Indian tribe ect.
 After the community service it is back to your homestay to spend some final moments with your family as we get ready for the farewell party at Sitio de Mata.
(Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Pacuare River

Day 5 --- Raft Pacuare River & Drive to Arenal Volcano (Arenal Hotel) 

Listed as one of the top 5 scenic rivers in the world by National Geographic the Pacuare River is a place of complete virgin rainforest from start to finish. We will make the 3 hour run and then be on our way to one of the 10 most active volcanos in the world and that is the Arenal Volcano. Not a bad day!
(Breakfast)

Day 6 --- La Fortuna Falls or Nature Reserve & Afternoon to relax in pool (Arenal Hotel) 

We will start the day by visiting La Fortuna Falls which is one of the most beautiful falls in all of the tropics. After visiting the falls we plan on taking a very educational nature hike through the rainforest. In the evening the kids will have a chance to relax at the pool and enjoy the views of the volcano.
(Breakfast)

Arenal Volcano

Day 7 --- Zipline & then drive to Airport Hotel (Airport Hotel) 

When it comes to having fun the kids will all agree that this is one of the best adventures of their life. The Zipline is a must do and you will have the chance to do it with a view of the active volcano Arenal where you can actually watch the boulders roll down the side of the volcano.
(Breakfast)

Day 8 --- Fly Home!

Today we will drive to the airport very early.
(Breakfast)

11-Day Costa Rica Adventure

Day 1 --------- Arrive and drive to Grano de Oro (Grano de Oro)

Today we will meet you at the airport and take you to the Grano de Oro Hotel. This happens to be one of the finest hotels in the San Jose area. All of our clients absolutely fall in love with this place. The food is excellent and it is just a small city hotel that is a must stay. (Meals: None)

Day 2 --------- Visit Poas Volcano and La  Paz Waterfall Gardens (Grano de Oro)

Cheryl, I will see you at La Paz

Today we will take you to the Poas Volcano which is a very easy hike for your parents age. The hike is around 6 blocks on paved flat road. The drive to the volcano will be through the coffee plantations of the Central Valley. After Poas we'll take you to La Paz Waterfall Garden which is a great way to start the trip. It will give you a taste of what to expect the rest of the trip which is beautiful lush forest and some wildlife. Lunch will be at a place where if I remember correctly we took your sister's group. It is Freddy Fressa's and it is the best place around to eat, in my opinion. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 3 -------- Drive to Turrialba & Relax in Hotel (Casa Turire)

We will make the drive out of the Central Valley today and stay in another one of our clients' favorite hotels, Casa Turire. You will have excellent views of the smoking and active Turrialba Volcano. This volcano is not spewing lava but it has a much more visible and constant smoke cloud than the Arenal Volcano. You will love the Casa Turire Hotel which is situated on a lake as it rests in a valley with moutains and volcanoes giving it a 360 degree view. We will arrive before lunch so you can just relax in the hotel during the afternoon. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 4 -------- Raft Pejibaye (Casa Turire)

Raft Pejibaye River

Today we will take off and raft the Pejibaye River. This is a small but beautiful river. The best part about this river is that it ends at the hotel. The lake the hotel sits on is the end of the river making it very convenient. We will raft the class II & III river in the morning which will allow for everyone to stay in the boat but everyone will get plenty wet and feel the adventure. In the afternoon we will be back in the hotel to relax and enjoy the hotel grounds. If you are up for an optional tour we work with a village in the mountains where we can take you and you can enjoy a local meal from some of the nicest families around. It is called our Sitio de Mata Project and you are welcome to take part in it for the evening. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 5 -------- Drive to Arenal & Relax in Hotel with view of Volcano Arenal  (Nayara Resort)

Volcano Arenal

Today will be a morning of traveling and then arriving to what many consider the nicest hotel in the Arenal area, Nayara Resort. The Springs Resort in Arenal is nice but in my personal opinion has that high rise feeling too it. Too much going on there and it just does not feel very Costa Rican. Also the hotel that your sister stayed at was years ago and they have not kept the grounds up the way they should be unfortunately.  (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 6 -------- Zipline & HotSprings (Nayara Resort)

We will take you to the zipline and hotsprings today. The zipline we take you to is the best in the country without a doubt. Not only do you see the boulders rolling down the side of the volcano as you zip 700ft high but you also see the lake and get to ride on a gondola through the rainforest. After the zipline you will have some time to rest at the resort and then you we'll take you to the hotsprings. This is your chance to relax and enjoy the thermal waters and an excellent meal. (Meals: Breakfast & Dinner)

Day 7 -------- Drive to Villa Blanca Cloud-Forest (Villa Blanca)

When it comes to relaxing nobody knows it better than the Villa Blanca. One of my personal favorite places to stay. This is actually the ex-Camp David of Costa Rica. Former President Rodriguez made this his weekend home to come and think and then it was bought by a foreigner who turned it into a small hotel. It is located on the Continental Divide in the center of a cloud-forest and is truly the most relaxing place you could ever imagine. The food and service is top notch and the weather is cool and perfect.  (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 8 -------- Nature Hike & Relax in Cloud-Forest (Villa Blanca)

Today is a short nature hike on flat ground in the morning and then just relax on the many benches in the forest or viewing areas from the Continental Divide. There are many hiking trails in the area and a chance to enjoy the grounds during the day. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 9 -------- Drive to Manuel Antonio (Espadilla Hotel)

Manuel Antonio

Drive to Manuel Antonio area. The morning will be a travel day and we will leave the cloud-forest after breakfast. We'll reach Manuel Antonio before lunch and you will have the chance to enjoy the beaches in the area. This is considered one of the nicest beaches in the country. The Espadilla Hotel is located in a perfect spot that allows you to walk to the beach or into the National Park. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 10 ------ Visit National Park and Relax at Beach (Espadilla Hotel)

Start the day by enjoying the park. This is a nature hike on flat ground and a chance to see a bunch of wildlife. After the National Park you will have the chance to relax at the beach and enjoy the many different places to eat or just wiggle your toes in the sand. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 11 ------ Fly Home!

Homestay & Arenal Volcano Adventure

Day 1 ------------- Arrive and Drive to Sitio de Mata (Homestays)

Sitio de Mata Homestays

We will meet you at the airport and then make the two hour drive out to the village. When we arrive to the village it should only take a few seconds for you to feel welcome. We will be in the mountains with a view of the smoking Turrialba Volcano but the people of Sitio de Mata is what brings this village to life. (Meals: Dinner)

CLICK HERE TO MEET THE HOMESTAYS FAMILIES!!!

Day 2 ------------ Community Service Project & Soccer Game with Locals in Sitio de Mata Village (Homestays)

After a good night's rest we will start off the week by showing the village that we are worth the visit. We plan on taking part in a community service project which will involve doing some work needed in the area. This could involve a number of different things. We have a recycle program organized and many groups help with that. If you are interested in painting or making small repairs to schools or many other needed things in the area we can arrange that. When those types of projects come into play it is funding that depends on how much we can do. If a school group can fundraise back in the states or get donations of a couple hundred dollars for paint and/or things of such then we can plan projects that involve using the funds. After the community service project we will spend time with the families and keep working on our Spanish. Each evenings we will organize the group in one of the main homes that has an open area. Here we usually do a salsa class to get us ready for the last night. All of the homes are within walking distance of each other. We will also plan a soccer game with the kids from the village and we usually lose but it is good fun. Take a Look CLICK HERE.  (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 3 ------------  Day Trip to the Beach Cahuita National Park (Homestays)

Today we will make the day trip to the beach. This will be an early morning and we will have all day to just relax. It is a long drive but nice and worth it. We will plan on doing an early dinner at the beach after a long day of playing in the sand and snorkeling if anyone is up for renting some gear. We will then drive back to the homestay where we can enjoy the night with our homestay families.

Breakfast at Aranza's House

(Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 4 ------------ Craft Class, Cooking Class, visit local school, & farewell party (Homestays)

This is a great day. We will get another full day in the community with our families. Today we will learn everything we will need to know if anyone from the group ever decides to retire in a mountain village in Costa Rica. These things are making tortillas, making some crafts, and we will even squeeze in some more dance classes because that is about as necessary as eating here in Costa Rica. Today we will also visit a school and just socialize with some of the younger kids.

(Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5 ------------ Enter Pacuare River (Pacuare River Camp Site)

Today we get to do one of the more fun adventures in all of Costa Rica. This is the overnight Pacuare River trip. You will get to see the beautiful Pacaure River at night and early in the morning which is just amazing to be near the river during these hours hearing nature take a nap and then get back up with the light of day. We will have all of your meals prepared for you as it is camping but not roughing it. All will have their shower, towels, and sleeping gear. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 6 ------------- River Rafting and Drive to Arenal Volcano (Arenal Hotel)

River Rafting Adventure

Arenal Volcano

Today we will make our way out of the River Rafting Adventure. This is the best way to get surrounded by the rainforest. This will be a half day adventure and everyone will get soaked. The day two of rafting is where the big rapids happen and it is fun for all to go through the famous Pacuare canyon. We will be on the river for around 2 1/2 hours today and everyone will have to row. The surrounding area is beautiful giving everyone a chance to see more mountains and plenty of jungle from start to finish. We have two rivers we raft in the area. One is class II & III and the other is the famous Pacuare River which is class IV. The Pacuare River, National Geographic has listed as one of the top five on the planet for scenery. After the rafting we will make our way to the Arenal Volcano. This is one of the 10 most active volcanoes on the planet. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Canyoneering

Day 7 ------------ Zipline y Canyoneering Adventure (Arenal Hotel)

We are going to celebrate the end to this trip with some amazing adventures. We will visit the zipline at Arenal which happens to be on the best zipline in the country. This will give you views of the boulders rolling down the side of the volcano. We will be zipping through the rainforest and make our way up on a gandola ride where we will make it very educational giving the kids an idea about the rainforest. After the zipline we will make our way to the canyoneering adventure. This is quite the way to end the trip. The canyon you will be going down will is beautiful and you will be rappeling 5 different waterfalls in the canyon. Take a look at this video to get a better idea of the adventure of Canyoneering CLICK HERE.  (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 8 ------------- Drive to Airport and Fly Home!

8-Day Costa Rica Adventure Saint George School

Day 1 ------------- Arrive and Drive to Sitio de Mata (Homestays)

Sitio de Mata Homestays

We will meet you at the airport and then make the two hour drive out to the village. When we arrive to the village it should only take a few seconds for you to feel welcome. We will be in the mountains with a view of the smoking Turrialba Volcano but the people of Sitio de Mata is what brings this village to life. (Meals: Dinner)

CLICK HERE TO MEET THE HOMESTAYS FAMILIES!!!





Day 2 ------------ Community Service Project in Sitio de Mata Village (Homestays)

After a good night's rest we will start off the week by showing the village that we are worth the visit. We plan on taking part in a community service project which will involve doing some work needed in the area. This could involve a number of different things. We have a recycle program organized and many groups help with that. If you are interested in painting or making small repairs to schools or many other needed things in the area we can arrange that. When those types of projects come into play it is funding that depends on how much we can do. If a school group can fundraise back in the states or get donations of a couple hundred dollars for paint and/or things of such then we can plan projects that involve using the funds. After the community service project we will spend time with the families and keep working on our Spanish. Each evenings we will organize the group in one of the main homes that has an open area. Here we usually do a salsa class to get us ready for the last night. All of the homes are within walking distance of each other. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 3 ------------  Craft Class, Cooking Class, & Ultimate Soccer (Homestays)

Breakfast at Aranza's House

Today we will let the ladies of the homestays show off their skills. They all have incredible talent of making something out of everything. There are many items and crafts that are local to the area and make for great souvenirs. This is also a great lesson for the kids to use what they have and not to be waste full with things in everyday life. They will see the ladies use many things that we might have considered trash and turne them into valuable pieces of decorations.  Along with learning some crafts you will also learn how to cooking some of the local cuisine. We will be doing things like the famous gallo pinto dish, making tortillas by hand, and squeezing sugar-cane.  After the classes and lunch you can take a siesta and then we will be on our way to the village soccer field. We will have a game and everyone is invited. This happens to often be one of the highlights of the trip for most as it is full of laughs and smiles from start to finish. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 4 ------------ Canyoneering Adventure (Homestays)

Today is the day to get out of the village and experience some of the natural beauty that Costa Rica has to offer. We will take on the adventure of Canyoneering which will get a little of the adrenaline going as the kids expierence beautiful waterfalls. The canyoneering is a half day adventure and a sport that has become very popular in the tourism industry. We will make our way down small waterfalls and the kids will have to do a small rappel. We have first timers do this all the time. They will absolutely love it as they get soaked. The evening we will be back in the homestays. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5 ------------ Visit Local Schools (Homestays)

If you can fit a few school supplies in your bags this would be the day to take them out. We will visit some of the local schools in the village. You will know many of the students from your homestay but now you will be with them in their classrooms. What we like to do here is organize small groups of three visiting kids with three local kids and we give them a list of 10 questions that might have interesting answers.  We also have other games planned during the visits.

Day 6 ------------- River Rafting (Homestays)

River Rafting Adventure

Today we will make our way to the River Rafting Adventure. This is the best way to get surrounded by the rainforest. This will be a half day adventure and everyone will get soaked. We will be on the river for around 2 1/2 hours and everyone will have to row. The surrounding area is beautiful giving everyone a chance to see more mountains and plenty of jungle from start to finish. We have two rivers we raft in the area. One is class II & III and the other is the famous Pacuare River which is class IV. The Pacuare River, National Geographic has listed as one of the top five on the planet for scenery. We take first timers down the river all the time and the age limit is 12. If there will be travelers younger than 12 then we will do the Pejibaye River which is still a great adventure and has some good rapids but just a little bit smaller. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 7 ------------- Nature Hike & Farewell Party (Homestay)

Farewell Party (You'll be an expert Salsa Dancer by now)

Today we will enjoy a morning of relaxing with the homestays. We will plan on having an easy day today so everyone can sort of just make their rounds to the different homes and start saying their good-byes, exchanging emails, and taking pictures. We will have a small nature hike planned in the afternoon where we will visit orchids and look for some sloths. In the evening is when the real fun begins as the village will give us the farewell party. This is quite the bash and I promise an unforgettable experience. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 8 -------------- Drive to Airport & Fly Home

Today we will make the drive to the airport and fly home. (Meals: Breakfast)

Costa Rica 8-Day Luxury/Nature

Arenal Volcano

 Day 1 ----- Arrive and Drive to Arenal Volcano & Tabacon Resort (Tabacon Resort)

When it comes to luxury and nature the Tabacon Resort has set the standard in Costa Rica. Located in front of the amazing Arenal Volcano the Tabacon Resort will be your first stop. Not a bad place to spend a few nights after a long day of travel. We will meet you outside the airport where you will be presented to your week long private driver and naturalist guide. We will then drive through the San Lorenzo Cloud-Forest where you will get your first lesson on the difference between the various micro-climates in Costa Rica. When you arrive at Tabacon, dinner will be waiting for you. (Meals: Dinner)

Day 2 ---------- Hanging Bridges, Danaus Reserve, &  HotSprings (Tabacon Resort)





Tree Frog

We plan on immersing you in nature from the time you wake up. Not only is Tabacon surrounded by nature and the beauty of the Arenal Volcano but also your first tour will be the perfect taste of rainforest. The hanging bridges is a place where your naturalist guide can walk you through the rainforest at the canopy level and show you many different plants and animals in the area. This is a great first stop and a chance to see and learn so much. After the bridges you will visit Danaus Reserve which is a locally owned reserve and a chance to see a lot more nature in a very small area. After the reserve you will enjoy sitting in the hotsprings with views of the active Volcano Arenal. The Tabacon Resort has it's own hot springs and they happen to be the best and you have access to them all three days. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 3 ----------- Gondola Ride &/or Zipline & La Fortuna Waterfall (Tabacon Resort)





Today you will take a gondola ride and visit a butterfly farm. This is a chance to see some more nature at a bit higher elevation as the guide will take you from the gondola ride to a hike on the floor of the rainforest. For those that want some adventure when you get off the gondola ride you can go on the ziplines but the other option is to go on a nature hike. After the hike you will have the chance to visit a butterfly garden. We will then head into town of La Fortuna which happens to be the town directly infront of the Arenal Volcano. We will eat lunch in La Fortuna and then visit one of Costa Rica's most beautiful waterfalls which is the waterfall of La Fortuna. This is an amazing waterfall and the views are spectacular. If you are up for a swim you can also take a swim at the bottom od the fall. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 4 ----------- Fly Private Charter to Tortuguero Manatus Resort (Manatus Resort)

To make the Tortuguero visit worth while we the option flying in on a private charter. This will allow for the visit to Tabacon because of the dates that is what we have to work with. You will fly in on Nature Air which is a very reputable airline in Costa Rica. You will be staying at the Manatus Resort which is Tortugueros finest place to stay. You will get off the plane and then take a short boat ride to Manatus.  (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 5 ------- Tour the Canals of Tortuguer & Night Hike  (Manatus Resort)

Tortuguero Canals

You will wake up to the sounds of nature and your guide will take you on a boat ride through the 

 canals of Tortuguero. It is good to take out on the boat early in the morning and then you will relax in the area and soak in the nature by the pool of Manatus. After lunch if you want do some more hiking in the area your guide will take you to see some more or the option of kayaks or visiting the beach. Dinner will be included at Manatus Resort.  (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 6 ---- Travel by Boat & drive to Turrialba (Hacienda Tayutic)

Today we will make the  boat ride and drive to Turrialba where you will be staying at Hacienda Tayutic which happens to have amazing views of the smoking Turrialba Volcano.  During the boat and driving today you will have the chance to see some of the banana plantations and even take a short stop at the packing house. After the banana visit we will make our way to Hacienda Tayutic which is located up in the mountains in a beautiful village with some of the finest views of the Turrialba Valley and volcanoes. We can hike around the local mountain village where you are gauaranteed to see a sloth. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 7 ------------- River Raft or Irazu Volcano (Hacienda Tayutic)

Hacienda Tayutic

You will have the chance to river raft today or visit the Irazu Volcano. We can go rafting on the Pacuare River, one of the top five scenic rivers on the planet or we can just go rafting on an easy river. If you are looking for less adventure then we will take you to the Irazu Volcano crater which happens to be Costa Rica's tallest volcano. You will actually drive up to the crater and look into the crater at an elevation over 10,000ft which will give your naturalist guide a chance to show a completely different type of vegetation and species at this elevation. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 8 --------- Fly Home!!!

Drive to the San Jose Airport and fly home!!!

Price: $2,590/person (Based on group of 5; 2 rooms throughout the trip)
Includes: All private transportation and guide, all meals listed, all lodging, all tours listed, and private charter to Tortuguero

Sample Luxury Nature Itinerary

Day 1 --------------------- Arrive and Drive to Tabacon Resort (Tabacon Resort)

When it comes to luxury and nature the Tabacon Resort has set the standard in Costa Rica. Located in front of the amazing Arenal Volcano the Tabacon Resort will be your first stop. Not a bad place to spend a few nights after a long day of travel. We will meet you outside the airport where you will be presented to your week long private driver and naturalist guide. We will then drive through the San Lorenzo Cloud-Forest where you will get your first lesson on the difference between the various micro-climates in Costa Rica. When you arrive at Tabacon, dinner will be waiting for you. (Meals: Dinner)

Day 2 --------------------- Hanging Bridges, Danaus Reserve, &  HotSprings (Tabacon Resort)

We plan on immersing you in nature from the time you wake up. Not only is Tabacon surrounded by nature and the beauty of the Arenal Volcano but also your first tour will be the perfect taste of rainforest. The hanging bridges is a place where your naturalist guide can walk you through the rainforest at the canopy level and show you many different plants and animals in the area. This is a great first stop and a chance to see and learn so much. After the bridges you will visit Danaus Reserve which is a locally owned reserve and a chance to see a lot more nature in a very small area. After the reserve you will enjoy sitting in the hotsprings with views of the active Volcano Arenal. The Tabacon Resort has it's own hot springs and they happen to be the best and you have access to them all three days. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 3 --------------------- Gondola Ride &/or Zipline & La Fortuna Waterfall (Tabacon Resort)

Today you will take a gondola ride and visit a butterfly farm. This is a chance to see some more nature at a bit higher elevation as the guide will take you from the gondola ride to a hike on the floor of the rainforest. For those that want some adventure when you get off the gondola ride you can go on the ziplines but the other option is to go on a nature hike. After the hike you will have the chance to visit a butterfly garden. We will then head into town of La Fortuna which happens to be the town directly infront of the Arenal Volcano. We will eat lunch in La Fortuna and then visit one of Costa Rica's most beautiful waterfalls which is the waterfall of La Fortuna. This is an amazing waterfall and the views are spectacular. If you are up for a swim you can also take a swim at the bottom od the fall. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 4 --------------------- Drive to Silencio Lodge (Silencio Lodge)

We will be leaving the area of Arenal today and heading to another area that is surrounded by nature. When you want to talk about getting away from it all this is the place to go. El Silencio Lodge is a piece of paradise with a small lodge where you will have access to incredible sounds, smells, and feeling of complete peace with nature. Just being here will be one of the highlights of your trip, I can promise you. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 5 --------------------- Nature Hikes & Toro Armaillo Waterfall (Silencio Lodge)

You will wake up to the sounds of nature and your guide will take you on a short easy hike and then you will relax in the area and soak in the nature. After lunch you will head to the nearby 300ft Waterfall of Toro Armarillo. This is another amazing viewing area surrounded by nature. We will head back to El Silencio for dinner. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)


Day 6 --------------------- Chocolate Tour & drive to Turrialba (Hacienda Tayutic)

Today we will make the drive to Turrialba where you will be staying at Hacienda Tayutic which happens to have amazing views of the smoking Turrialba Volcano. On the drive to Turrialba we will be stopping at the Chocolate Tour. This is a very interesting tour that is done by the locals. It is the story of the cacao plant and where chocolate comes from. After the tour we will make our way to Hacienda Tayutic which is located up in the mountains in a beautiful village with some of the finest views of the Turrialba Valley and volcanoes. We can hike around the local mountain village where you are gauaranteed to see a sloth. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)


Day 7 --------------------- River Raft or Irazu Volcano (Hacienda Tayutic)

You will have the chance to river raft today or visit the Irazu Volcano. We can go rafting on the Pacuare River, one of the top five scenic rivers on the planet or we can just go rafting on an easy river. If you are looking for less adventure then we will take you to the Irazu Volcano crater which happens to be Costa Rica's tallest volcano. You will actually drive up to the crater and look into the crater at an elevation over 10,000ft which will give your naturalist guide a chance to show a completely different type of vegetation and species at this elevation. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 8 --------------------- Fly Home!!!

Drive to the San Jose Airport and fly home!!!

10 - Day Costa Rica High School Adventure

Hola Oak Hall!!!

Day 1 --- Arrive and Drive to Monteverde (Monteverde Hotel)

We will meet you outside the San Jose airport and load the bus and be on our way to Monteverde. The Monteverde area is a cloud-forest and a great way to start the trip. The Monteverde Cloud-forest is one of the reasons Costa Rica became famous. The Monteverde Reserve is known for it's bio-diversity which makes for a great educational hike. (Meals: Dinner)

Day 2 ----- Monteverde Reserve & Zipline (Monteverde Hotel)

Today we will make the hike through Reserve in the morning. We will look for some different species of plants and animals and also have the chance to learn about the cloud-forest. After the hike if everyone passes the quiz we have planned we will head to the ziplines!!! This is the sister company of the one in Arenal Skytrek and it is an amazing ride just like the other zips. Being in the cloud-forest there is a chance we might be zipping through the clouds. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Arenal Volcano

Day 3 -------------- Travel Arenal Volcano area (Arenal Hotel)

Today is a travel day to Arenal Volcano which happens to be one of the ten most active volcanoes on the planet.  We will add a little adventure to it as we travel by bus, boat, and back to bus. We will take the boat as transportation because it is a beautiful ride across the Lake Arenal. Here you get the chance to see the volcano from the lake which in my opinion is its best angle. We will then make our way to the Casa Luna Lodge. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 4 -------------- Rio Celeste Hike (Arenal Hotel)

Rio Celeste

The Rio Celeste is one of the not extremely touristy areas and it is located just over an hour north of the Arenal area. It is an amazing place though and we will be hiking along a river that is sky blue that you can see in the picture. Rio Celeste has a number of different highlights that are included in the hike. The river has its colors from the nearby volcano and we will see where it merges with another river, we will see an enormous waterfall, and we'll take a dip where the river heats up in the form of thermal waters. The hike is not too strenuous NOTHING LIKE THE CAVE. It is flat and just a few areas with small inclines. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5 -- Canyoneering & Drive to Tarimbina also a night hike (Tirimbina)

Canyoneering

Canyoneering is one of the best adventures going now and this is the place to do it. Canyoneering is all the fun of rappeling a waterfall and more. We will make our way down a canyon and rappel five waterfalls as we make our way down. It is fun and people get soaked. It is an amazing adventure and everyone will love it. The canyoneering will be in the morning and after lunch we will head to Sarapiqui. This is a different type of rainforest and for anyone into science this place cannot go without a visit, if it is your second trip. We will take a NIGHT HIKE!!! Quite a few different types of critters come out at night so bring a flash light. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 6 -------------- Chocolate Tour Drive to Beach (Caribbean Hotel)

Did you ever wonder where chocolate came from? Well today we will find out on the chocolate tour. Very interesting lesson on the cacoa plant will leave everyone looking to grab the nearest Snickers bar. After the tour we will head to the Caribbean Coast where it is beach time. We will be staying in a hotel that is both our hotel and our beach. This means not much room to roam around for the kids. The Caribbean side is surely worth the visit since it is a completely different type of formation than the Pacific. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 7 -------------- Snorkel & Beach Day (Carribean Hotel)

Today we plan on snorkeling in the morning and then some beach time in the afternoon. When it comes to off-shore snorkeling the Carribean side is the spot to do it. We will plan on being in the water for the morning and then heading to the hotel for lunch. After lunch the kids will have some time to be on their own and enjoy the beach some more or just relax at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)



Day 8 -------------- Enter Pacuare River (Camp-site)

I LOVE OAK HALL!!!  - This trip was SOOO WORTH IT!!!

Today we will leave the beach after breakfast and arrive at the Pacuare River to begin our two day rafting trip. This is one of the top five rivers in the world and the Pacuare River rafting adventure is still without a doubt our favorite adventure. We will start a little higher up the river this year and raft half way down to the camp-site. When we reach the camp-site we will stop and have lunch. After lunch we can take some hikes and just enjoy being on the river. In the evening we will have dinner prepared by first class guide/chefs. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 9 -------------- Leave Pacuare & Drive to Central Valley (Airport Hotel)

Today we will paddle down the best part of the Pacuare River. This is the area where we will raft the class IV rapids and visit the famous Pacuare Canyon. We will have just under three hours of rafting and when we finish we will get some lunch and head back to the Central Valley. This will be our final night in Costa Rica and we will stay near the airport. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 10 ------------- Fly Home!!!