Wednesday, March 30, 2011

#2 Lisa Sample Itin: June 18th - June 25th

Cuna del Angel
Day 1 ----- Arrive and Drive to Pacific Coast (Cuna del Angel)


We will meet you outside the airport and drive you to the beautiful Cuna del Angel Hotel. I thought of this hotel for your group because they have two very different types of rooms. One type is very luxurious and the others are still clean and nice but just not as fancy in which case not as expensive. All rooms get access the the beautiful pool and restuarant which is one of the finest in the country. (Meals: None)

Surf Classes
Day 2 ----- Zipline, Tarzan Swing, & Surf Classes (Cuna del Angel)

Today you will wake up to the sound of the jungle and enjoy an amazing breakfast at the Cuna del Angel. After you are done with your Costa Rican coffee we will make our way to the zipline. This is an incredible zipline one of my favorites in the country for two reasons. It is on a ridge 1,000ft above sea-level and it has a tarzan swing that is just amazing that makes you feel as if you are out over the 1,000ft drop. After the zipping and swinging in the morning we will go to the beach and take some surf classes. This is a great day of surfing and a chance to surf some great waves of Costa Rica. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 3 ----- Perfect Surfing Skills (Cuna del Angel)


Today is your day to perfect your surfing skills. You can relax on the beach and read a book or just get ready for the next couple of days of adventure we have planned for you. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 4 ----- Hike  to Cavern & Rappel Waterfall  (Sleep Behind a Waterfall)


Snoozing behind a Waterfall
To this day probably one of the most amazing places I have ever seen and an area that few tourist that come to Costa Rica get the chance to see. If you just want an all out slap in the face with natural beauty then this is the place to get it. We will hike in for about 1 1/2 hours and it is a nice hike. Pretty steep and I've taken kids as young as six and they made it no problem.  We will hike to where you will be sleeping which is behind a waterfall. We will be rappeling the same waterfall and everything is set up for you when you arrive. It is not roughing it as all your meals are prepared and there are very nice bathroooms even with toilets and sinks. The rappel is a thrilling experience walking over the side of a waterfall. After the rappel we hike take a short hike to Diamante falls but we will be at the top of it which is Costa Rica's tallest free falling waterfall that measures 600ft!  (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5 ----- Hike to Pools and Jumping Rock (Casa Turire)


Hammock Area at River Camp Site
Today those that just want to sit and enjoy the area in the caver behind the waterfall can relax and those that want to take another little hike to more waterfalls and pools where we jump off a 30ft high rock into a beautiful pristine pools surrounded by jungle can join us for the hike (I know that is where I will be). After the hike we will have one last amazing meal in the cavern and then make our way out. We will then spend the afternoon driving over Costa Rica's tallest mountain range getting up to almost 12,000ft. We will arrive to an area that is called the Paramo which is known in tropical countries and quite a neat area. After we make our decend from the Paramo we will arrive to the beautiful hotel of Casa Turire. Here we will have some time to relax and just enjoy the pool where you have a perfect view of the Turrialba Volcano which is smoking. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 6 ------ Raft Pacuare River to Camp (Camp on River)

Pacuare Canyon
We will get up and enjoy the excellent breakfast that is offered by Casa Turire and then make our way up into the mountains where we will put in the Pacuare River and get ready for our two day rafting adventure. National Geographic has this river listed as one of the top 5 rivers on the planet. It is filled with primary rainforest, canyons, and waterfalls. Without a doubt the best river in Costa Rica just writing this makes me want to go tomorrow unfortunately we dont have a trip till another week, ugh! We will stop along the way where we will make lunch for you and then make our way to the camp. This is tents but it is a beautiful area and all the tents are set up, above ground. Very nice kitchen, bathrooms, and social area with hammocks and views downstream of the river. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 7 ------ Raft Pacuare Canyon & Drive to Grano de Oro (Grano de Oro)

We will get up to the sound of nature. After we get breakfast and our load of Costa Rican coffee we will head downstream to the famous Pacuare Canyon. Here we will visit some of the more famous rapids of the Pacuare River. This scenic area is what makes it one of the top on the planet. After we take out of the river we will make the drive back to the San Jose area and spoil you for the night in the Grano de Oro Hotel. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

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


 Unfortunately no rafting, surfing, rappeling today just a ride to the airport. (Meals: Breakfast)

#1 Lisa Sample Itin: June 18th - June 25th

June 18th -------- Arrive and Drive to Pacific Coast (House Rentals)

Surf Classes
Today your driver and guide will meet you a the airport where we will take you just south of Dominical. This is a beautiful area and you get the true feel of Costa Rica where the mountain meets the sea and everything is green. The views from the homes are spectacular. (Meals: None)

June 19th ---------- Surf Classes Costa Rica (House Rental)

Known for being a great surf spot Dominical will be where we take on the waves. We will do this on the first day that way after the activities like rafting, rappeling, and zipline if the kids want they can go practice their already learned skills in the afternoons after the adventures. This is a great class and goes through all the basics of surfing and makes sure everyone gets up. (Meals: None)


June 20th -------- Raft Savegre River (House Rentals)
Not like the Everglades!!!

Today we will take you back down some dirt roads and then on some more dirt roads as we make our way to the Savegre River. This is a beautiful river that has some nice rapids in it. We will spend the day on the river as we make our way through the rainforest. We will plan on having lunch on the river. (Meals: Lunch)

June 21st --------- Rappel Nauyaca Waterfall (House Rental)

Nauyaca Falls
If the rafting and ziplining were not enough then walking over the edge of a 160ft waterfall should do the trick. This is something you can not find in the Fort Lauderdale area for sure. It is one of Costa Rica's most beautiful waterfalls and it is a short drive from the house. We will make our way to the top and then hike a little bit and then the only way down to the beautiful swim hole at the bottom is to rappel down the waterfall. We will plan on having lunch at the top of the waterfall. (Meals: Lunch)


June 22nd -------- Zipline, Tarzan Swing, & Afternoon at Beach (House Rentals)

You won't find  this in South FL!
Today we will take you on a great zipline that is on a ridge located 1,000ft above sea-level with great views of the ocean down below. The ziplining is a great experience but this tarzan swing is one of a kind. The tarzan swing is on the top of the ridge and all you see when you swing out is 1,000ft feet of nothing below you and the coastline. (Meals: None)

June 23rd --------- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park (House Rental)

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park. This is just 45 minutes away and although a big touristy area I still think there might be more monkeys than people in the park and worth the hike through the park to make a half day trip. We will be taking a hike through the park and then enjoy the beaches and then you can visit some of the shops in the area. (Meals: None)

Manuel Antonio National Park
June 24th --------- Beach Day & Relax (House Rental)

Today is your day to relax. If the kids want to enjoy the waves and perfect their surfing that is an option.  Just a day to enjoy the houses. (Meals: None)

June 25th --------- Fly Home!

We will drive you to the airport today to make your flight! (Meals:None)

Monday, March 28, 2011

Scott: 2 Week Sample Itin

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

Quetzal
Today we will meet you at the airport and take you to your first hotel. This is a beautiful place only around 20 minutes from the airport which will give you a chance to rest up after your day of traveling. (Meals: None)

Day 2 -------------------------------- Cerro de La Muerte (Dantica Lodge)


We will leave San Jose after breakfast at your hotel and drive to Cerro de La Muerte. This is an area where we will be spending one night and going for one reason only. The reason is to give you the chance to see one of the most beautiful species of birds in all the America's. In the past Monteverde has been the usual spotting area for the Quetzal but now it is overcrowded with tourists.is a Here at Cerro de La Muerte there are a few small lodges that will give us a 99% chance of seeing this bird and it is well worth it. We even take non-birders to these lodges when it fits in the itin and they never regret seeing the Quetzal. (Meals: Breakfast)


Day 3 --------- Bird in Morning & Drive to Turrialba (Casa Turire)

Today we will drive to the Turrialba area with pictures of the beautiful Quetzal in our cameras and memories of course.  We will arrive at the Casa Turire Hotel which will give you great views of the smoking cone of Turrialba. This is a very nice hotel, small, and pretty good for birding if you want to get up early in the morning. (Meals: Breakfast)

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

Pejibaye River
Today you can sleep in and then we will take the short ride to the Pejibaye river. The Casa Turire Hotel is located on a lake and the Pejibaye runs into this lake so we finish the trip at the hotel. It is a small rapid but very scenic and has some little rapids but it is the kind of river we use for all families with young kids. We will plan on taking our time in the river. All of this is run privately. You will be in your own raft with your own guide throughout all the trip. In the evening you can have time to relax at the hotel or we can take you to a local village and introduce you to some of the local customs or we can have the kids learn how to make tortillas with some other kids if they are up for it. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 5 --------------------------------------------------- Drive to Sarapiqui & Chocolate Tour (La Selva)

Today we will drive to Sarapiqui and get your bird book out because we will be staying here for one night and plan on checking off big list of birds. Today is around a two hour drive and you can sleep a little bit but we will get somewhat of an early start. Today we'll do the Chocolate Tour when we arrive. This is an amazing tour and the best part about it is that it is hands on. You get to eat and eat chocolate but "real" high quality chocolate. (Meals: Breakfast)

Hola Scott
Day 6 --------- Birding in the Morning & Drive to Arenal Volcano (Nayara Resort)


We will get up before breakfast today and get some birding in. This is a great spot and we can bird as long as your heart desires. When we are done we will drive to the famous Arenal Volcano where you stay in the beautiful Nayara Resort which will give you a perfect view of the perfectly cone-shaped volcano. (Meals: Breakfast)


Day 7 --------- Zipline & Visit Danaus Reserve (Nayara Resort)

Arenal Volcano
Let a little of the adventure begin as we take you on a zipline. This is in our opinion one of the best in the country because it has the best views of the Arenal Lake and of course the volcano. Also you see nothing but primary forest under you as you fly over the canopy. After we do the zipline we will go over to the Danaus Reserve. This is a small reserve but one of the best to take a short hike around with your guide. The birding is great here and you'll see many different species of poisonous frogs, three-toed sloths, boat-billed heron, and butterflies. Also the reserve is a great educational stop, proving the importance of reforestation. Just eleven years ago balsa trees were planted here that now look hundreds of years old. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 8 ----------------------------- Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall & HotSprings (Nayara Resort)


Manuel Antonio
Today we will take a hike to one of Costa Rica's most picturesque waterfalls. La Fortuna Falls is absolutely beautiful and a great place for the kids to swim down in the pools at the bottom. After the nice hike we will then make our way to the HotSprings where you have the chance to relax and enjoy a great meal and views of the volcano. (Meals: Breakfast & Dinner)

Day 9 ----------- San Lorenzo Cloud-Forest & Night Hike (Villa Blanca)

Today we will leave the area of the Arenal Volcano and make our way into the cloud-forest. One option would be to go to the Monte-Verde Cloudforest which is a very nice area but if you wanted just a little bit less crowded there is nothing like the Villa Blanca Hotel in the San Lorenzo cloud-forest. This was the property of the former President of Costa Rica and now it is a beautiful hotel where the clouds might literally be joining you for breakfast or dinner. It opens up for a whole new level of flora & fauna. When you arrive we will check you in and it will be time for your night hike. Hiking through the cloud-forest at night is a great experience. With the knowledge of your guide you will be amazed at how much wildlife is out in the cloud-forest at night and just how interesting some insects can be. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 10 --------- Birding at Villa Blanca in the morning and Drive to the Pacific (Arenas del Mar)

Passerini Tanager
Today we will do some birding in the morning and then when you are ready we will make our way to the Pacific Ocean. Our destination will be the Arenas del Mar which is a perfect hotel looking over the waves of the Pacific. It has private beach, unusual in this Manuel Antonio.
(Meals: Breakfast)

Day 11 --------------------  Rainforest Spice Tour (Arenas del Mar)


If you want to learn some interesting stuff and eat some great tasting samples of spices from the rainforest then this is the place. This is a new, very well run educational tour and demonstration of where, how, and what needs to be done to get the spices from the jungles to your spoon. After the tour you can relax at the hotel or on the beach. (Meals: Breakfast)



Day 12 ---------------------------------- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park (Arenas del Mar)

Our Naturalist Guide Eric in Manuel Antoino Park
Today we will make the hike to the Manuel Antonio National Park. If you have not seen all the monkeys you need to see then this is the spot. I still think there are more monkeys than tourists in this park. It is a great spot for the kids to see some mammals upclose such as coatis, white-face capuchin monkeys, and even the endemic squirrel monky. I was in the park last week and saw the Three-Wattled Bellbird which made that trip all worth it for me. (Meals: Breakfast)



Day 13 ------- Visit Poas Volcano Crater Drive back to Airport Hotel Grano de Oro (Grano de Oro)


"Poor Man's Umbrella"
Today we will leave the beach and drive back to the airport hotel which will be the same Grano de Oro you stayed at when you arrived. We will make a day out of the drive back as we visit the Poas Volcano Crater where you will see some of the largest leaves ever and an amazing crater. This is a beautiful crater and a chance to drive through some very scenic countryside towns of Costa Rica. After we visit the crater we will have lunch at the best place in the country which is Freddy Fressas. He makes a strawberry drink that is well worth making a toast to the end of an amazing adventure. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 14 -------- Fly Home!

We will get you the airport a good few hours before you flight and send you on your way. (Meals: Breakfast)


Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Costa Rica Caribbean Adventure Itin

Day 1 ------------- Drive to Turrialba (Casa Turire)


Pacuare River Camping Adventure
Today we will meet you at the airport and take you to the Casa Turire Hotel. This happens to be one of our favorite spots and you will have great views of the smoking volcano of Turrialba. (Meals: None)

Day 2 ------------- Enter Pacuare River Rafting Adventure (Camp Pacuare River)


Here we will be entering what National Geographic has listed as one of the top 5 rivers on the planet for it's scenery. The famous Pacuare river is in our opinion the best tour Costa Rica has. It has some great rapids and when it is this good why not spend 2 days on it. We will be camping on the river and this is not roughing it by anymeans. You will be surrounded by jungle with the sound of the river but we do the cooking and everything is set up for you and even a bathroom and shower made from bambu. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 3 ------------- Raft Canyon & Drive to Caribbean (Beach Hotel)

Pacuare River Canyon
Today we will raft the Pacuare Canyon and hit the big class IV rapids. This is a great day of around 3 hours of rafting. After we take out we will get some lunch and then make the drive to the Caribbean coast. We have a great little spot on the coast that we use and the caribbean has some of the best snorkeling spots in the country. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 4 ------------- Snorkel Uvita (Beach Hotel)

Today we will be visiting one of the best snorkel spots as we take a boat out to the island of Uvita and we get the chance to snorkel around the reef. It is a great day in the and then time to relax in the afternoon at the beach. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 5 ------------- Drive to Arenal Volcano & Chocolate Tour (Arenal Hotel)

Canyoneering Adventure
Today is a travel day and we will split it up by visiting a chocolate plantation and going on a short little tour with plenty of samples of chocolate. Here we will learn where chocolate came from and the different facts about it along with how it is harvested and then turned into the chocolate bar. After the tour we will then arrive to the famous Arenal Volcano. This is perfectly cone-shaped volcano and happens to be one of the ten most active on the planet. You stay in a great place with views from each room of the volcano.  (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 6 ------------- Zipline & La Fortuna Falls (Arenal Hotel)

This is the best zipline in Costa Rica. Although this does not have the tarzan swing it does have some of the best views around. You get to see the perfectly coneshaped volcano and the lake as you zip from mountain top to mountain top above primary rainforest. After the best zipline in Costa Rica we will then make our way to the La Fortuna Falls where you will get the chance to visit one of the most beautiful falls in all of Costa Rica.  (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 7 ------------- Canyoneering & HotSprings (Arenal Hotel)

Arenal Voclano
Today you will take part in another great adventure. This is called the canyoneering and it is becoming more and more popular. There is only one day down this narrow canyon and that is using all fours and then when we get to the waterfalls you gear up and rappel down. After the canyoneering adventure we will take you to the hotsprings where you can relax and enjoy a very nice meal. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

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


Today we will make the drive to the airport. If you leave in an afternoon flight it is better today. (Meals: Breakfast)

Costa Rica Adventure

Rappel Nuayca Falls
Day 1 ----------- Arrive and Drive to Pacific Beach (Casa Belmar)


Costa Rica House Rental Casa Belmar

Today we will meet you at the airport and drive you down to the Casa Belmar. This is an amazinz place surrounded by jungle with great views of the Pacific.

Day 2 ----------- Zipline & Tarzan Swing (Casa Belmar)

Today we will take you to an amazing zipline which has cables high up in the canopy and a chance to do a tarzan swing off a ridge that is 1,000ft high. This is an thrilling ride and everyone will love it.

Day 3 ----------- Rappel Nauyaca Falls (Casa Belmar)

River Lunch
Today we will rappel one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Costa Rica. The Nauyaca Falls is a double decker 300ft fall that is absolutely the perfect place to do the rappel and the perfect place to swim at the bottom. (Meals: Lunch)

Day 4 ----------- Raft Savegre River (Casa Belmar)

Today we will raft the savegre river. This is a great river to raft and it will be filled with rapids that will keep everyone soaked. The river goes through a canyon and we will do lunch on the river and just a great day in the sun with some great rapids. (Meals: Lunch)
Nauyaca Falls

Day 5 ----------- Snorkel at Whale National Park (Casa Belmar)

Today is your day to snorkel. We will actually be staying close to shore and when the tide goes down there is a National Park nearby that is perfect for some snorkeling. The rest of the day you can relax at the beach.

Day 6 ----------- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park (Casa Belmar)


Today we will go visit the very crowded park of Manuel Antonio. I still think there is more monkeys than tourist though so we plan on making it a nice nature hike and visiting the beaches while we are there.

Day 7 ----------- Drive to Poas Volcano Crater (Airport Hotel)


Manuel Antonio
Rafting Savegre
Today we will get an early start and make our way to the Poas Volcano Crater which will give you a chance to visit the 9,000ft crater that is located in the central valley. After visiting the crater we will make our way to the best place in the country for lunch. After lunch it is down through the coffee plantations to the airport hotel where we will be nice and close for the next day departure. (Meals: Lunch)

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


Today we do the transfer from your hotel to the airport. (Meals: Breakfast)

Honeymoon Costa Rica

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


Arenal Volcano
Today we will meet you at the airport and drive you to the Arenal volcano where you will be staying in the Nayara Resort. This is one of our favorite hotels and a must for those on their honeymoon. It is a beautiful drive to the volcano and you will have great views of the active cone-shaped Arenal. (Meals: None)

Day 2 ----------- Zipline & Visit La Fortuna Falls (Nayara Resort)

Today we will take you on the best zipline in all of Costa Rica. With over 100 different ziplines now this is the highest, fastes, best views, and also the safest. It is only about 20 minutes from the hotel and you will enjoy great views as you make your way through the rainforest. After the zipline we will take you to visit the La Fortuna Falls which is a beautiful waterfall with an amazing area to swim. In the evening you can relax at the hotel or we can take you to some suggested places to eat in the area. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 3 ----------- Canyoneering & HotSprings (Nayara Resort)

Canyoneering
Today you will do the adventure of Canyoneering which is an amazing adventure and easy for everyone. You will make your way down the canyon filled with waterfalls. When you get to a large waterfall it is time to hook up and then make you way down using a harnass doing a rappel. After making our way through the canyon we will visit the hotsprings which includes a great meal and just time to relax. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 4 ----------- Drive to Manuel Antonio & Relax at Beach (Arenas del Mar)

Today we will drive you to the Manuel Antonio area and you will be staying at Arenas del Mar. This is another perfect place for honeymoons and absolutely spectacular views of the waves below. You will have your own private beach which is a huge plus to this area. Our guide and driver drop you off here as it makes more sense financially for you guys if you just walk to the beach or the hotel can arrange for you to leave the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 5 ----------- Fishing (Arenas del Mar)

Today we will have the fishing arranged for you and they will arrive to the hotel and drop you off at the hotel. This is a beautiful day just to look back on the coast line of the Pacific. Depending upon what you decide on the fishing runs between half and full days about $800 - $1200 depending on boat and length of day. (Meals: Breakfast)

Manuel Antonio
Day 6 ----------- Relax at Beach (Arenas del Mar)

Today is your day to relax at the beach and just enjoy the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 7 ----------- Relax at Beach (Arenas del Mar)

Today is another day to relax at the beach and enjoy the shops in the area. If you would like you can visit the National Park which will give you a chance to see a number of different species of monkeys. (Meals: Breakfast)

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


With the new highway it is only 2 hours back to the hotel. Depending on your flight time will depend on when we pick you up from the hotel and take you to the airport. It is good to be at the airport 2 or 3 hours before international departures. (Meals: Breakfast)



Monday, March 21, 2011

Costa Rica Luxury Adventure Itin

 Day 1 ---------- Arrive and Drive to Casa Turire (Casa Turire)

Today we will meet you at the airport and drive you to the first hotel. This is a beautiful area of Turrialba which is in a valley and you will have a great view of the erupting volcano of Turrialba which has been smoking from the top for the last year. The hotel has a great place to eat and is one of my favorites in the country. (Meals: None)

Day 2 ---------- Raft Pacuare (Casa Turire)

Arenal Volcano
Today we will raft the famous Pacuare River. This is listed as one of the top 5 on the planet by National Geographic and we will have our own private raft and be going at our pace. This is a beautiful day and we will stay at the Casa Turire for a second night being back at the hotel for some time to relax. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 3 ---------- Drive to Arenal (Nayara Resort)

Today we will drive to the Nayara Resort which is located with great views of the Arenal Volcano. This is without a doubt one of the nicest hotels in the area and might even be my favorite in the country. We will drive straight to the hotel as this is a day of travel but we will make some stops along the way to make it interesting. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 4 ---------- Zipline &/or Gandola Ride (Nayara Resort)

Pacuare River
Today we will zipline and for those that are not up for the zipline can go on the gandola ride. This is in my opinion the best zipline in the country and not only the fastest, highest, but also the safest. I take most to all of my groups on this one as it has the best views of the Arenal lake and the Arenal Volcano.  In the afternoon you could have time to relax at the Nayara resort or we could take you to the hotsprings. The hotsprings here in Costa Rica are often very luxurious pool areas just so you know. Many people expect natural hot springs but it often does not look like such. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 5 ---------- Fly to Quepos (Arenas del Mar)

Today we will fly to the beach area and you will be staying at the Manuel Antonio beach. This is quite the touristy area and if you are looking to get off the touristy path I could take you down 40 minutes south from this area to the Cuna del Angel hotel and less crowded beaches. But if you decide you might want to stay in the Manuel Antonio area the views do not get any better than Arenas del Mar. The in-country flights in Costa Rica are very reputable and are often used for cutting driving time way down.  (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 6 ---------- Spice Tour (Arenas del Mar) 

Virgin Rainforest
Today you can have some time at the beach but we will also take you to the Spice Tour. This spice tour is fairly new and the people just love it. It is a tour on the spices of the rainforest and the best part is that you get to snack on the spices. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 7 ---------- Tour Park (Arenas del Mar)

Today we will visit the National Park of Manuel Antonio. This is a great little area that I still think has more monkeys than tourist. It also is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

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

Today we will make the drive on the new highway to the airport which is only around a 2 hour drive now.

Costa Rica Teen Adventure Program

Day 1: July 23rd -------- Arrive and Stay in Central Valley (CRR Base Camp)

The Cavern Kitchen
Today all campers will be met outside of the airport by our camp staff. We will have a very nice welcome at the CRR base camp and a large group dinner to break the ice for everyone and get everyone geared up for the next six days of adventure. (Meals: Dinner)

Day 2: July 24th --------  Enter Cave Hiking (Sleep behind Waterfall)

Today we will be getting an early start. We plan on leaving the base-camp at around 6am to drive down the Coastal Highway and then in to one of the central mountain ranges. When we get to where the bus can go no more it will be time to get our hiking gear out and hike into one of the most scenic areas in all of Costa Rica. Surrounded by nature and beautiful waterfalls all around, the kids will get a true feel for back-packing through the jungle. When we arrive we will have a lunch planned for the kids. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 3: July 25th -------- Rappel Waterfall & Hike to Pools (Sleep behind Waterfall)

Waterfall Rappel
Get ready for some adventure as we plan to rappel a 150ft waterfall. This is a beautiful fall and the rappel will surely get the adrenaline pumping. After the rappel we will make our way to the tallest waterfall in all of Costa Rica which is called Diamante Falls a 600ft fall. We will arrive to a panoramic viewing area at the top of the falls. After lunch the kids will hike up to the pools at the top of the cavern and visit more waterfalls and also enjoy some swim-time in the pools. The evening will be filled with camp games, music, and bonfires. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 4: July 26th - Hike out of Cave and Drive to Costa Rican Homestay (Homestay Sitio de Mata)


The Homestay Mom's
Eco-Project Planting
Today we hike out of the cave and drive over Costa Rica's tallest mountain range which measures 12,000ft above sea-level in a country that is only 60 miles wide it make for some spectacular views of both coasts. The best part of today is to come when we arrive at the village of Sitio de Mata. Here the kids will see the best part about Costa Rica -- its people. We will be staying in two homes the guys in one home and the girls in another. The local village is going to put on quite the presentation for us as they show us the local dance, music, food, and even teach us how to do some of the dance moves. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5: July 27th -------- Eco-Project & Enter Pacuare River (Camp at River)

Rafting Pacuare
Camping Pacuare
Before we get on this amazing adventure we will make a visit to a nearby farm where we are trying to get as many trees planted as possible. We will educate the kids on the importance of this and also allow them to plant a tree which will be tagged with their names. After we plant the trees we will visit the river National Geographic has listed as one of the top 5 rivers on the planet, the Pacuare River. This is an amazing day and we will be spending two days in the river. The first day we will spend around 2 hours rafting. We will leave the village after breakfast and say our good-byes to some of the friends we have made and then put in the river and make our way down to the camp site. We will stop for some hikes and lunch along the way and then get to the camp-site around 3pm. The kids can just relax for a bit and then we'll take the teachable moment before dinner and talk to the kids about the importance of protecting our environment and how it benefits all of us. The evening will be filled with camp games and music. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 6: July 28th -------- More Rafting and Drive to Central Valley (CRR Base Camp)

Camp Co-Director, Jim Ranieri
Camp Director, Tom Ranieri
 We will raft the Pacuare Canyon which has some nice little rapids. The scenery is absolutely beautiful and we will make a stop along the way to hike to another beautiful waterfall and then it is through the rapids. After we finish the river we will get some lunch and make our way back to the CRR Base Camp in the Central Valley where we will have a special dinner planned for the kids. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 7: July 29th -------- Fly Home!

Today depending on the flight time we will be making a number of different trips to the airport.

Cost: $1150/camper
Includes: All tours and adventures, all lodging, all transportation (international airfare not included) all food, 24 hour supervision on a 1 adult to every 4 camper ratio

Friday, March 11, 2011

Honeymoon Adventure Costa Rica

Waterfall Rappel
Day 1 -------- Arrive and Drive to Pacific Coast (Cuna del Angel)

Today we will meet you at the airport. We will then drive to the Pacific coast and stay at a beautiful hotel for just one night which will put us in position for the amazing adventure of day 2. (Meals: None)

Day 2 -------- Enter Cave (Sleep in the Cave)

Today we drive into the mountains for one hour and then take it off road for a bit as we make our way to the base camp to where we begin the hike into the Diamante ridge. This is a hike that will take us to a waterfall that we rappel and then we end up sleeping behind the waterfall for the night. This is an amazing experience and all your meals and everything are done for you. There is a bathroom and shower and it is not roughing it by any means. We will also make our way to visit the Diamante falls which will put us at the top of a 600ft edge which will give you a few butterflies in the tummy.  (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

River Hammocks and Camp Site
LEARN ABOUT THE CAVE WE VISIT

LAST WEEKS GROUP IN THE CAVE

Day 3 -------- Leave Cave & Drive to Turrialba (Casa Turire)

Today we will leave the cave and drive to Turrialba which is a beautiful drive over Costa Rica's tallest mountain range. We will first spend the morning hiking around the cavern some more where we will visit some pools and jump off a 30ft waterfall. This is a great way to end our stay here and then we get lunch and hike out. You will be staying at the Casa Turire Hotel which is the perfect honeymoons spot. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 4 -------- Enter River (Camp at River)

View from River Camp
Today we will take the bumpy road to the put in that is bit farther up stream than the normal put in and that is because we plan on doing a 2 day rafting trip. We will be rafting for around 2 hours on day 1 and will be camping at a beautiful camp-site where all you need is the hammock that is strung there with great veiws of the river downstream. Again this is not roughing although you will be in a tent you have great bathrooms, we cook the meals, and it is truly a special spot waking up in the virgin rainforest. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 5 -------- Leave River Drive to Arenal (Nayara)

Today we hit some of the largest rapids on the river. We will plan to get an early start and make our way down the Pacuare canyon. This is a beautiful run and there should be a nice water level coming in November. After we take out we will make the drive to the Nayara Resort where you will absolutely love. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 6 -------- Zipline & Nature Reserve (Nayara)

Arenal Volcano
If the adventures before were not enough than you hanging from a cable that is 700ft high with views of the rainforest below might do the trick. This is a great day of zipping on 8 different cables with unbeatable views. After the zipline we will take you to a small private nature reserve to test our luck finding some wildlife in the area. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 7 -------- Canyoneering  (Nayara)

This is growing to be one of the more popular adventures. The canyoneering in Costa Rica is a fun sport that actually takes you rappeling but the best part is when you use your hands and feet to make your way down the canyon jumping over rocks, jumping into pools, and just making a day out of being in the jungle. After this adventure we can head back to the hotel to relax or find something else to keep the excitement going. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Canyoneering Adventure
Day 8 -------- Fly Home!
Pacuare River

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Honeymoon Package Alyssa II

Day 1 ---------- Arrive and drive to Turrialba (Casa Turire)

Raft Pacuare River
Today we make the drive to the Casa Turire hotel. This is a great honeymoon spot and a very small hotel in a valley with an amazing view of the smoking Turrialba Volcano. This is a great place to spend the first night and rest up after a long day of traveling. (Meals: None)

Day 2 ---------- Raft Pacuare River (Casa Turire)

Today you will raft what National Geographic as listed as one of the top 5 rivers on the planet. This is a beautiful run and you will see waterfalls and canyons from start to finish. You will stay in the Casa Turire a second night to make this an easy day after rafting and a chance to just enjoy the evening after rafting. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 3 ---------- Drive to Arenal Volcano (Nayara Resort)

Today we will drive to the Arenal Volcano. We will get going after breakfast and arrive to the Arenal Volcano just after lunch. This is a beautiful drive and a chance to see some of the country-side. We will make some stops along the way. The best part about this day is arriving to Nayara which happens to be an amazing hotel with great views of the volcano. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 4 ---------- Zipline, hike to volcano, & visit hotsprings (Nayara Resort)

Arenal Volcano
Today you will zipline on one of Costa Rica's best ziplines in the country. These cables go over 700ft high. You will have great views of the active volcano of Arenal. After the zipline you will have the chance to hike to the volcano and visit the old lava flow from the Arenal volcano.  In the evening you will be able to relax in the hotsprings and enjoy an amazing meal with views of the volcano. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 5 ---------- Drive to Manuel Antonio(Arenas del Mar)

In the morning this will be a good option to visit some shops. You will have the chance to also visit some shops at the beach. This will mostly be a travel day as we will make the 5 hour drive to the Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast.  (Meals: Breakfast & Dinner)



Day 6 ----------- Relax at the beach (Arenas del Mar)
Manuel Antonio National Park


Today is your day to relax at the beach. You will have the option if you are up for it to visit the National Park of Manuel Antonio. This is a beautiful park and a chance to see some monkeys. The afternoon you can relax at your hotel or the beach. (Meals: Breakfast)


Day 7 ---------------- Beach Day (Arenas del Mar)


Today is another day to relax at the beach. This is your last day and you can either finish the book you are reading, start planning your 5 year anniversary with us, or even test your skills with some surf classes. (Meals: Breakfast)


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


Today we will make the 2 1/2 hour drive back to the San Jose airport. (Meals: Breakfast)