Costa Rica Sample Itin Gail August 2012

View from Manoa Resort

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

Today we will meet you outside of the San Jose Airport (SJO) and make the 2 1/2 hour drive to the Arenal Volcano. The views from the Manoa Resort are some of the best in the area and you will have a large villa and a very big pool area with great views since you say you enjoy the water. (Meals: None)

Day 2 ------ Zipline & Nature Reserve (Manoa Resort)

Today we will start the trip off with a little adventure. We will be visiting what we consider the best zipline in all of Costa Rica. With over 70 different ziplines, this is still our favorite with great views of Arenal Lake and a close-up look at the volcano. In the afternoon we will take you to a small locally owned nature reserve where you can experience some of Costa Rica's most fascinating residents. Seeing different species of birds, sloths, and colorful frogs will make you a lover of the tropical biodiversity found in Costa Rica. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

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

One of our favorite adventures for families has to be the canyoneering. If you love water this is a great adventure as we make our way down a tropical canyon surrounded by lush rainforest from start to finish. You will get the chance to rappel five different waterfalls two of which are over 100ft!

In the evening you'll have some time to relax in the nearby hotsprings surrounded by more lush tropical rainforest. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)

Day 4 ------- Drive to Pacific (Cuna del Angel)

Make new friends

Today we'll make the drive to the Pacific Coast. You can have the option of staying in the more touristy area of Manuel Antonio or staying just south in a small boutique hotel called Cuna del Angel. The reason I thought of Cuna del Angel is because it has easy access to swimming in different waterfalls and more other swimming excursions. Manuel Antonio is a great spot and a beautiful park but the more touristy vibe so I will let you decide. (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 5 ------- Horseback to Nauyaca Falls (Cuna del Angel)

Nuayaca Falls

Today we will horseback to what I consider the most beautiful waterfall in all of Costa Rica. The Nauyaca falls is a chance to see a waterfall at its utmost beauty in a tropical rainforest. We will ride for around one hour to the falls where you'll have time to swim in the pool at the foot of the falls. We will then make our way back and have lunch on the way.

In the evening there will be some time to enjoy the beach or just relax at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Day 6 ------- Visit Cano Island & Snorkel (Cuna del Angel)

Today is a full day on the water. We will get an early start and take a boat out through the mangroves and then out into the ocean to the Cano Island. Here you can do some great snorkeling and observe the many different species of fish near the island. It is also a great day to seeing whales and dolphins from the boat. This is a full day adventure and even some hiking on the island after lunch. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)

Surf classes with Luigi?

Day 7 ------- Beach Day (Cuna del Angel)


Today is your day to relax on the many different beaches in the area. (Meals: Breakfast)

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