Costa Rica Luxury Hotels

Nestled along the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the Peninsula Papagayo is in the northwest province of Guanacaste. Stretching into the Golfo de Papagayo, this peninsula was formed by volcanic activity and has been shaped by weather.  This location’s outstanding scenery includes primary rainforests and private beaches, and is a unique Central American hideout.

Thirty minutes from Liberia's new international airport, Peninsula Papagayo teems, as it has for centuries, with boundless beauty.  This jagged pair of peninsulas reaches into the warm waters of the Golfo de Papagayo, further protected by the deep blue lap of the Pacific. The expanse and diversity of unspoiled land is astounding: 15 miles of coastline, 14 miles of bluff edges, 31 separate beaches of white, coral, gray, and black sands. Mother Nature must consider Peninsula Papagayo one of her finest achievements.

Though it’s the country’s second-largest province by area, Guanacaste is the least populated, offering a calm, peaceful ambience. The pampas – or prairie – landscape is an unusual mix of grassy savannahs, immense cattle ranches, and tropical dry forest backed by volcanic mountain ranges.

Guanacaste also offers some of the country’s best beaches – with shores stretching about 160 kilometers (99 miles) from the Nicaraguan border to the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Some beaches have been declared protected breeding grounds for the leatherback sea turtle.

Peninsula Papagayo is a secluded natural sanctuary that provides abundant opportunities to experience eco-adventure on land and in the water.

Costa Rica Destinations Facts

CURRENCY:

The unit of currency is the colón. Nevertheless US Dollars are widely accepted.

CLIMATE:

Daily weather patterns in Guanacaste are generally predictable, with rain occurring more frequently during September and October than during other months, making it easy to plan an itinerary all year round. The northwest Pacific coastline does not experience hurricanes. The province of Guanacaste, in the northwest region of Costa Rica, has a tropical climate very different from its Caribbean and Mexican neighbours. It experiences two very distinct seasons – the Gold Season and the Green Season.During the Gold Season, from November to May, there is virtually no rainfall, and many trees lose their foliage, creating a landscape of golden-brown hues. Temperatures during this season are a comfortable 33ºC (91ºF), with very little humidity. The months between May and November produce lush tropical gardens, and are described by Costa Ricans as the Green Season. With an average temperature of 31ºC (88ºF), the Green Season typically features sunny mornings followed by potential rain showers in the late afternoon. However, during mid-July, a break in the Green Season, called "El Veranillo," occurs, and the region experiences a few weeks of dry conditions.

ELECTRICITY:

Local voltage is 110 to 120 volts AC.

TIME ZONE:

GMT -6 hoursCentral Standard Time

LANGUAGE:

Spanish is the official language, while English is widely spoken throughout the country.

VISA REQUIREMENTS:

Visa and passport requirements frequently change. We do our best to keep this information as current as possible; however, we recommend  that all visitors check with their embassy or consulate before their departure. United States of America: U.S. Citizens Do Not Need a Visa to Travel to Costa Rica. Required Entry Documents: U.S. citizens may enter Costa Rica without a tourist visa and can stay up to 90 days with a valid passport.U.S. citizens - regardless of their age (*) - need the following documents to enter Costa Rica:     *     A valid passport with at least one blank visa page. The expiration date of your passport must be greater than 30 days from your date of entry to Costa Rica. And     *     A pre-paid airline ticket to exit Costa Rica or proof of financial resources ($400.00US - $1,000.00US in cash, traveler checks, and/or ticket (either to return to your home country or to go to another country) (*) If a U.S. minor (U.S. Citizen under the age of 18) does not have his/her own passport, he or she must have a joint passport with one of his/her parents, legal guardian or the person traveling with him/her. Note: The government of Costa Rica decreed that after November 17, 2003 the practice of accepting U.S. driver licenses/IDs and U.S. birth/naturalization certificates as entry documents is discontinued on a permanent basis.

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Fishing

Sport-fishing enthusiasts are impressed by Guanacaste’s rich waters, which offer various kinds of marlin, sailfish, dorado, wahoo, grouper, roosterfish, amberjack, mackerel and exceptionally large tuna.

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Guaitil

In the tiny village of Guaitil, many of the women continue the pre-Columbian pottery-making traditions of the Chorotega Indians. Tours include demonstrations of their ancient techniques and the opportunity to buy a piece for oneself, before travelling on to the Diria coffee plantation at Matambu.

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Horseback Riding

Horseback riding offers an authentic local experience, connecting to the traditional cowboy culture of Guanacaste’s vast cattle ranges. A riding excursion at El Aromal promises a memorable way to explore the backcountry landscape.

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Visit to Liberia

Liberia, Guanacaste’s capital, is one of Costa Rica’s oldest cities, founded in 1769. A traditional local farming centre, it provides a convenient place to shop for essentials.

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Trip to Miravalles

Miravalles is home to the Miravalles Volcano, a dormant volcano and site of the largest developed geothermal field in Costa Rica. At the frontier of the Costa Rican rainforest, there’s a hidden paradise at Finca La Anita, featuring an educational rainforest macadamia tour along pristine mountain streams and amongst fields of exotic flowers.

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Palo Verde Wildlife National Park Trip

Scientists from all over the world come to Palo Verde National Park and Wildlife Refuge to study its rich ecosystem of rivers, marshland, mangroves and dry forest, where crocodiles, monkeys and iguanas make their home. The leafless trees in this dry tropical forest make it easy to view up to 300 species of birds. Flat-bottomed boat tours are the perfect way to witness the park’s wildlife.

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Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja and the Rincón Volcano Trip

One of the 10 most-visited parks in Costa Rica, Rincon de la Vieja National Park occupies the upper slopes and summit of the volcano after which it is named. During a 3-km (2-mile) nature hike through the forest, discoveries include bubbling mud, steaming sulphur vents and fumaroles. The park is made more colourful with a proliferation of the purple orchid, Costa Rica’s national flower, and almost 300 species of birds.

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Day at Prieta Beach Club & Spa

Nestled along the palm-fringed sands of Peninsula Papagayo's Playa Prieta – just 10 minutes from Four Seasons – lies the Prieta Beach Club & Spa. Open to residence guests, this casual 3,530-square-metre (38,000-square-foot) oasis is situated in a naturally sheltered cove. Facilities include a lap pool, a beachfront bar and a sports bar and restaurant, as well as a spa and fitness centre. Water activities include snorkelling and surfing. A small flotilla of catamarans, kayaks and sailboats are available for rent. Complimentary transportation is provided.

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Rafting

Floating in a raft on the calm Corobici River offers a peaceful way to view the beautiful scenery of this natural paradise. A certified river guide points out exotic flora, and wildlife such as white egrets, tiger herons, motmots, howler monkeys, ospreys, crocodiles, iguanas and other lizards.

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Sky-Walking

Sky-walking in the rainforest involves crossing over suspension bridges, giving an up-close, personal view of ancient trees and wildlife. This walk of approximately two and a half hours is a chance to discover the magic of one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.

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Visit to Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a small, vibrant community set on a 3.5-km (2-mile) beach. The town offers more than 40 restaurants, a lively outdoor market, an art gallery and a host of craft and pottery stores.

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Natural Hot Springs at Borinquen

These beautiful hot springs are set in the midst of an evergreen forest on the side of the Rincon de la Vieja volcano. Cover yourself with silky soft volcanic mud, rich in minerals and deeply cleansing – and relax.

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Witch’s Rock Canopy Tour

The Witch’s Rock canopy tour guarantees an exhilarating experience. Guests harness up and slide along a series of zip lines suspended amidst the treetops and above valleys. Wildlife along the route includes tree frogs, vine snakes, sloths, howler monkeys and hundreds of bird species.

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Catamaran Cruise

A catamaran cruise provides a relaxing way to explore the Gulf of Papagayo. On a luxury 14-metre (47-foot) catamaran – boarded right at the Resort’s beach – set out on a cruising adventure to see ocean wildlife and jungle shoreline. Snorkelling and sunset tours are available.

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One-Way Bus Liberia Airport Transfer to Four Seasons

SIB "Seat in Bus" Service - regular transfer from Liberia Airport to Four Seasons.

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Private One-Way Liberia Airport Transfer to Four Seasons

Private unescorted transfer from Liberia Airport to Four Seasons is $78.08.  Private guided transfer from Liberia Airport to Four Seasons is $116.97.  **Prices do not include 20% markup**  Important notes for private service:  please add $2.51 per person for airport assistance.  Rates are net per service in USD for 1 to 6 passengers.  Private transfers are operated with English-speaking guides.

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Bus One-Way San Jose Airport Transfer to Four Seasons

SIB "Seat in Bus" service - regular transfer from San Jose Airport to Four Seasons is $25 per person (price does not include 20% markup).  Note:  This transfer can only be operated including the first night in San Jose, as this service is only operating at a fixed departure time.  San Jose Shuttle Schedule:  Departure from the last hotel in San Jose at 8:00A and arrival at the destination at 1:30P.

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Private One-Way San Jose Airport Transfer to Four Seasons

Private unescorted transfer from San Jose Airport to Four Seasons is $231.25.  Private guided transfer from San Jose Airport to Four Seasons is $314.58.  Prices do not include 20% markup.  Important notes for the private service:  please add $4.38 per person for airport assistance.  Rates are net per service in USD for 1 to 6 passengers.  Private transfers are operated with English-speaking guides.

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Canopy Half Day Tour

The adventure takes place in downtown Puntarenas, in the Central Pacific Coast.  Parque Aventura Canopy gives you the chance to experience an exciting and adrenaline adventure activity, mixed with real environment of the tropical forest.  Swiss Travel's experienced guides will assist you at all times; this will let you enjoy each tree's platform ride on a series of 8 thrilling lines with double cable (almost 1 mile total), through and above the forest floor, including special eco trails.  This option will give you the change to enjoy the tropical forest and wonderful views of the Barranca River and the Nicoya Gulf.  Duration:  4 hours.  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guide, fresh fruit, and equipment.  What to bring:  hiking shoes, long pants, insect repellent, and a camera.  Remarks:  this tour requires a minimum of two people to operate.  Waiver is required.  ***Prices are for Cartagena - operated from Area 2***  Canopy Tour Half Day Artola - operated from Area 1 is $33.6 for an adult and $16.8 for a child (price does not include 20% markup).

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Arenal Volcano by Night

The adventure begins with lunch of the way to the Arenal Volcano area.  There, you will enjoy lunch with a spectacular view of the Arenal Lake and its surroundings.  Then, you will arrive to the hot springs facilities and have the opportunity to take a dip into the mineral hot spring pools, surrounded by tropical gardens and an impressive sight of the volcano (considered on of the most active volcanoes in the world).  After this, dinner will be served.  You will again have the opportunity to admire the red lava and gasses that are constantly coming out of the volcano's crater.  Duration:  12 hours (approximate).  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee, lunch, and dinner.  What to bring:  comfortable clothes and nonskid shoes, light jacket, swimsuit, towel, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.  Remarks:  this tour requires a minimum of four people to operate.  **Children are aged 3 to 11**

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Palo Verde National Park

Your visit will consist in a boat ride throughout the Tempisque River bordering the Palo Verde National Park; this flows into the Gulf of Nicoya, Guanacaste.  The park has a great ecological variety and it's located on the Pacific of Costa Rica delineated by rivers, limestone hills, and extensive wetland vegetation.  Birds are the biggest attraction at Palo Verde; during the wet season, the floodwaters of the Tempisque River spread out creating extensive marshes, that welcome migrant brids from North and South America.  Large numbers of aquatic birds can be seen:  Grebes, Cormorants, Anhinga, Herons, Jabirus Storks, Ibises, Spoonbills, Falcons, Caracaras, and Jacanas.  Duration:  5 hours.  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee, fresh fruit, and lunch.  What to bring:  comfortable clothing, sun block, insect repellent, hat, binoculars, and camera.  Remarks:  this tour requires a minimum of two people to operate.  The sequence of the tour depends on the tides.

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Carara National Park

Carara National Park covers a low mountainous area of 15000 acres of an interesting transition forest between the Dry Tropical Forest and the Rainy one.  The park houses many mammals, as well as the Scarlet Macaw, and vast numbers of species of plants and trees.  Walking by the park's trails will give you the possibility to observe several species of monkeys, birds, immense crocodiles, iguanas, and frogs along the Tarcoles River.  Includes:  transportation, guide, snack, and entrance fee to national park.  Bring:  light clothing, comfortable shoes, hat, suntan lotion, insect repellent, and camera.  ***Minimum of four persons***  Children are aged 3-11.

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Manuel Antonio National Park

This national park is considered one of the most beautiful of the country.  It is a combination of a paradisiacal beach of crystalline waters with coral reefs, bordered by exuberant vegetation and the natural captivations of the tropical humid forest.  Its beaches are counted among the best of the country, where the snorkeling and surf are very popular.  One the way to Manuel Antonio along the coastal line, you will enjoy nice views while crossing plantations of African palm and picturesque villages along the Pacific coast, until you reach the port of Quepos and few minutes after the national park.  At the arrival, you will hike to the park, crossing a creek to access the park (since the park is closed to vehicles).  Once at the park, it is possible to simply enjoy the beach, take a sun bath, or a nature walk through the park's trails, which will allow you to observe the abundant flora and fauna of it, especially several species of monkeys, iguanas, birds, and maybe, the three-toed sloth.  Includes:  transportation, guide, snack, lunch, and entrance fee to the national park.  Bring:  light clothing, bathing suit, towel, comfortable shoes, hat, suntan lotion, insect repellent, and camera.  ***Minimum of four persons***  Children are aged 6 to 12.

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Turu Ba Ri Tropical Park

This is an ecological-oriented theme park that is located at the Central Pacific, about one hour from Jaco Beach.  The park includes a series of adventures and natural attractions such as aerial tramway, canopy tour, horseback riding, butterfly farm, country farm, orchid garden, herbarium, and natural trails.  The park has 198 hectacres (496 acres) and offers beautiful views of the countryside.  The NE section of it bordered the Tarcoles River and the SE area, the slopes of the Turrubares Mountains, and Carara National Park; to the west lays the Gulf of Nicoya, which you will be able to see from the higher elevations in the park.  Duration:  12 hours approximately.  Includes:  transportation, tour guide, breakfast, and lunch.  What to bring:  comfortable shoes, hat, binoculars, light jacket, camera, and film.  Remarks:  this tour operates from Tuesday to Sunday and requires a minimum of two people to operate.  Waiver is required.  Children are aged 5 to 12.

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Monteverde Cloud Forest Tour

Monteverde is the perfect opportunity to walk into the cloud forest and admire more than 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 500 species of butterflies, 120 reptiles and amphibian species, 2500 plant species, 500 species of trees, and thousands of insects.  Its climate and large altitudinal gradient has helped to produce an extremely high biodiversity of birds.  There, you will find Quetzals, the Bird Bell, the Black Turkey Bird, the Mot-Mot, the Orange-bellied Trogon, and the Bare-neck umbrella bird.  In this area, you will visit two private reserves:  Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve - both considered biological corridors.  Duration:  6 hours.  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee, and lunch.  What to bring:  hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, raincoat, binoculars, and camera.  Remarks:  this tour requires a minimum of five people to operate.  Children are aged 3 to 11.

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Canopy Tour Full Day

This is a trip for explorers, adventurers, and nature lovers.  It begins with relaxing horseback riding to the starting point; there you will receive a safety introduction from the tour guides.  After hours of pure adventure, a delicious Costa Rican meal will be served.  You will take a 25 cables canopy tour that crosses over 11 impressive waterfalls and offers the opportunity to watch a breathtaking ripping cascades.  Your security is priority number one; the canopy always keeps safety at all levels, that is why its systems were designed, constructed, and tested by the owner himself.  Duration:  5 hours.  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guide, equipment, horseback riding, fruits, water, and lunch.  What to bring:  comfortable clothes, hiking shoes, sun block, insect repellant, hat, binoculars, and camera.  Remarks:  this tour requires a minimum of two people to operate.  Children younger than 8 years old are not allowed.  Waiver is required.

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Hanging Bridges at Villa Lapas

The SkyWalk tour is for all ages and allows guests to observe a variety of exotic first-hand flora and wildlife.  You will experience walking through natural trails and hanging bridges.  This private reserve is next to the Carara National Park, which is considered the best spot for bird watching in Costa Rica.  Duration:  4 hours.  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guide, water, and snacks.  What to bring:  Comfortable shoes and clothes, insect repellent, binoculars, and camera.  Remarks:  this tour operates in the morning with a minimum of four people.

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Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs

This tour gives you the possibility to visit the most active volcano in Costa Rica and the opportunity to relax in the hot springs.  The tour begins in route towards the volcano passing by La Fortuna - the closest town to the volcano - where on clear days, you can admire the majestic colossus.  Costa Rica's most active volcano periodically erupts, rumbling as it sends clouds of smoke and ash into the sky.  Witness the spectacle of the volcano at night, watching the red lava snake down the mountain and illuminating the sky like a magnificent display of fireworks.  Take time out to relax in the thermal hot springs and naturally heated jacuzzis, so close that you will hear the rumblings of the volcano.  Enjoy the different optional activities offered at the resort.  Includes:  transportation, guide, lunch, dinner, and entrance fee.  Bring:  light clothing, jacket, bathing suit, towel, hat, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, sandals, and camera.

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Poas Volcano, La Pax Waterfalls, and Sarchi Tour

You will have the opportunity to visit the Poas Volcano, considered the largest active crater in the world (about 1 mile wide and 320 meters deep).  There, you will find the trails that lead through cloud forest stunted and twisted, not only by volcanic emissions, but the rigors of cold windy high altitude habitat.  One of these trials take you to the Botos Lake (extinct crater), some of many cloud forest birds.  On the way to Poas Volcano National Park, stunning scenery will unfold as you pass through coffee, sugar, fern, and strawberry plantations; a very country sightseeing ride to the volcano will show you the vegetation changes as you keep ascending until you reach the cloud forest.  Continuing with the adventure, next stop is at "La Paz" Waterfalls Gardens, a rainforest national park that provides its visitors a great variety of activities.  Its main attraction is the panoramic viewpoints of five magnificent waterfalls that feed La Paz River.  Other attractions is the panoramic viewpoints are the hummingbirds gardens, butterfly gardens, an orchid collection, snake and frog exhibits, a traditional country house, Trout Lake, and a bird observatory.  Next stop is at the famous Sarchi Village, known as the center of Costa Rican handcraft with an abundance of craftsmen that work fine woods.  You will have time to see the artists at their workshops making the famous oxcarts (declared a World Intangible heritage) and many other traditional products.  Duration:  11 hours.  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guade, entrance fees, and lunch.  What to bring:  hiking shoes, raincoat, light jacket, and camera.  Remarks:  this tour operates from Tuesday to SUnday requires minimum of two people to operate.  Waiver is required.

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Tortuga Island Crusie

This is an eco oriented theme park located at the Central Pacific, about 1 hour from Jaco Beach.  The park includes a series of adventures and natural attractions such as aerial tramway, canopy tour, horseback riding, butterfly farm, country farm, orchid garden, herbarium, and natural trails.  The park has 198 hectacres (496 acres) and offers beautiful views of the countryside.  The northeast section of it bordered the Tarcoles River and the southeast area, the slopes of the Turrubares Mountains and Carara National Park; to the west lays the Gulf of Nicoya, which you will be able to see from the higher elevations of the park.  Duration:  7 hours.  Includes:  transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee, one adventure activity (to choose from canopy or horseback riding), visits to the butterfly farm, bromeliads, bamboo, and cactus collection and lunch.  What to bring:  comfortable clothes and shoes, sun block, hat, binoculars, and camera.  Remarks:  this tour operates from Tuesday to Sunday and requires a minimum of two people to operate.  Waiver is required.

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Mega Combo

Visiting the northern flanks of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is the perfect opportunity to enjoy different activities in one place: Canopy tour, water slide, hot springs, mud baths and horseback riding.  The Canopy Tour is a system of 10 cables connected from platforms that are built on centuries-old trees in the tropical forest.  A 400-meter (1,300 foot) waterslide is also located inside the forest; it is like a fountain of youth for grownups and great fun for children.  After these two activities, you can enjoy a delicious Costa Rican lunch, the best of our cuisine.  In the afternoon, either by horse or by a horse-drawn carriage, you can visit the thermal hot springs located in the heart of the forest; here you can take a volcanic mud treatment or relax in the hot springs surrounded by a natural tropical forest.  Duration: 10 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, equipment and lunch.  What to bring: Long pants, swimsuit, towel, sun block, insect repellent and camera.

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Horseback Riding Authentic

Hacienda “El Aromal” is one of the oldest cattle ranches in Guanacaste owns by a traditional family ranch that has been in the business over the last 400 years.  The horseback riding tour starts as “sabaneros” or Costa Rican cowboys through beautiful plains and streams surrounded by a tropical dry forest full of exuberant flora and fauna.  From the top of one of the highest hills in the property, you can enjoy an impressive view of the savanna.  After this on your way back to the ranch; a delicious typical snack will be waiting for you.  Duration: 5 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, equipment and snack.  What to Bring: Long pants, sun block, insect repellent, hat, binoculars and camera.  

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Arenal Volcano & Rainforest

During the morning you will see beautiful landscapes around the Arenal Lake.  Also, you will have the chance to experience the tropical rainforest and enjoy the wildlife of the area.  After lunch, we will head the Arenal Volcano surroundings to experience the natural mineral hot springs.  You will find different pools (filled with mineral water); surrounded by impressive well-manicured tropical gardens and a hot-water river that crosses the entire property.  There you will able to enjoy the impressive view of the Arenal Volcano, considered one of the most active volcanoes in the world.  Duration: 12 hours. Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fees, lunch and dinner.  What to Bring: Hiking shoes, swimsuit, towel, light jacket, sun block, hat and camera.

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Horseback to the Miravalles Waterfalls

The region where this horse back takes place is home of the Miravalles Volcano.  The ride will begin along the hills, pastures, and the primary rain forest of the area while you enjoy the colorful landscapes and a great view of the largest developed geothermic field of Costa Rica.  Next you will arrive to a hidden paradise, three magnificent waterfalls surrounded by natural beauty, that’s why you need your bathing suit to enjoy this crystal springs waters as you hear colorful birds singing around.  Besides that, the miravalles volcanic area will give you the unique opportunity to walk in an active crater called “Las Hornillas” and experience by yourself the earth’s dynamic geology at your fingertips; also you will able to experience mud, hot stones, thermal waters which are considered resources that can be used in an friendly environmental way.  Includes: Air-conditioned transportation, bilingual guide, entrance, horseback ride or, horse-drawn carriage and lunch.  What to Bring: Bathing suit, comfortable shoes, camera, light clothing, insect repellent.  Duration:  Approximately 8 hours. 

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Floating at the Corobicí River

The Corobicí River is a wide river coming from the Arenal Lake located at the base of the active Arenal Volcano, it continues westward into the Pacific towards the ocean.  This is an opportunity for birdwatchers since the river goes near the Palo Verde National Park, home of many species of birds.  Some paddling is necessary, but most of the float will give you time to observe wildlife along the shore; there are sections where the river gradually reaches the mangrove forests near the coast; then if you are lucky, the boat-billed heron is found, despite of being a nocturnal bird.  This tour is highly recommended for families or beginners interested in nature.  Duration: 7 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, equipment and lunch.  What to Bring: Swimsuit, water shoes, towel, change of clothes, sun block, hat and camera.

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Canyon Tour

This tour is designed for people who love challenging themselves in a natural environment: Canopy (zip lines) over a river canyon, rappelling, rock climbing, Tarzan swinging (from side to side), horseback riding and a refreshing bath in a very clean and clear water river.  During this adventure a beautiful and transitional tropical forest will surround at all times.  Duration: 8 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, equipment, entrance fee and lunch.  What to Bring: Long pants, hiking shoes, swimsuit, towel, sun block and camera.

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Costa Rica’s Wonders

Same as the Palo Verde option, here you can enjoy the wonders of this exotic National Park consisting in a boat ride throughout the Tempisque River bordering the Palo Verde National Park which flows into the Gulf of Nicoya, Guanacaste.  After touring the park, you will take an interesting trip through the Matambú Coffee Plantation's facilities; there you will learn about the different steps to make coffee: cultivating, processing and recycling wastes (unique in the area), as well as the indigenous and rural cultural values of the region.  Duration: 10 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee and lunch.  What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, sun block, hat and camera.

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Costa Rica’s Best

“The adventure begins with a horseback riding across the Guanacaste olden time lands reaching the canopy platforms.  Once you are there an incomparable experience starts in the mountain and ends at the Tizate River; you will be able to literally fly over the treetops and cross the river from high above."  Trained personnel will guide you through the mountain so you can enjoy unforgettable places and observe nature in all its forms over nine different cables.  Right after this adrenaline rush, you can relax in the exuberant natural beauty represented by unique colours and textures of the thermal water of Guanacaste.  You will enjoy of the hot springs pool, Jacuzzi and wet bar, all this accompanied with the best typical Costa Rican food, as well as international exotic dishes and the beautiful sight of the Tizate river.  Includes: Air-conditioned transportation, bilingual guide, canopy tour and equipment, horseback ride, thermal hot springs and lunch.  What to Bring: Bathing suit, comfortable shoes, camera, light clothing, insect repellent.  Duration:  Approximately 8 hours. Not recommended for children under 5 years of age.”

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Costa Rica’s Roots

This is like everything started…In a remote little village named “Colonia Libertad”, 45 years ago adventurous pioneers entered into the deep virgin rain forest and settled down with their families.  In Costa Rica almost every single town started this way, but only just a few of them still keep that ancient life style.  You will go back in time and share a perfect interaction between the rural development and traditions.  You will start visiting “La Anita Rain Forest Ranch” there you will experience from an interactive cooking class to a visit of a medicinal plant garden and organic vegetables and fruits plantations; these products will eventually be used for your lunch later on.  After that, hang on in a tractor-pulled cart ride to see a bit more of their plantations, but the best it’s yet to come… The greetings from the local families relaxing on their porches or hanging laundry to dry in the sun will be a common ingredient of the landscape.  You will visit the 50 student’s elementary school, their catholic church, clinic and for a final taste of rural Costa Rican life, a proud simple family will open their doors to you into their home for an afternoon of snacks, their famous homemade bread and a cup of freshly-brewed Costa Rican coffee.  Includes: Air-conditioned transportation, bilingual guide, tractor transportation, and lunch.  What to Bring: Light clothes, camera, visor or hat and sunscreen.  Duration: Approximately 10 hours.

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Hanging Bridges in the Rainforest

At the foothills of the Tenorio Volcano, there is a private rainforest nature reserve where you will walk through paths and hanging bridges in the heart of the forest.  Ferns, tall trees and exotic plants can be seeing during this adventure.  This is an encounter with nature and if weather permits, a great view of the Nicaraguan Lake will unfold for you at certain point.  Duration: 8 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee and lunch.  What to Bring: Hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, raincoat, insect repellent and camera.

Things To Do in Costa Rica

Nicaragua: Volcanoes and Colonial Cities

Once we cross the border from Costa Rica to Nicaragua, an amazing view of the great “Maderas” and “Concepción” volcanoes will grace your eyes.  The volcanoes are located in one of the largest freshwater islands in the world, the Nicaraguan lake.  Next, you will visit the Masaya Volcano (one of Nicaragua's most active volcanoes) considered the first national park in the country and the only volcano in the western hemisphere where you are able to drive to the rim.  Next stop is Masaya; well known as the Cradle of Nicaraguan Folklore -heart of handicrafts-.  Its main market is located next to the central bus station and is divided into sections where you can find the finest products such as hand woven hammocks, embroidered blouses and wood carvings.  Continuing with your visit, we will arrive in Granada, (considered the Central America's oldest European-founded city).  This city is full of plenty of colonial churches, narrow streets and large homes with beautiful indoor patios, tiled roofs and pretty colonial colors.  Granada was founded near the Mombacho volcano and the Nicaraguan lake in 1524 and it was named after the city of Granada, Spain.  Duration: 14 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, immigration taxes, entrance fees, light breakfast and lunch.  What to Bring: Passport, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, hat, binoculars and camera.

Things To Do in Costa Rica

Palo Verde National Park

Your visit will consist in a boat ride throughout the Tempisque River bordering the Palo Verde National Park which flows into the Gulf of Nicoya, Guanacaste. Palo Verde has a great ecological variety and it’s located on the Pacific slopes of the northwestern Costa Rica covering 18.418 hectares delineated by rivers, limestone hills and extensive wetland vegetation.  Birds are the biggest attraction at Palo Verde National Park; during the wet season the floodwaters of the Tempisque River spread out creating extensive marshes that welcome migrant birds from North and South America.  Large numbers of aquatic birds can be seen: Grebes, Cormorants, Anhinga, Herons, Jabirus Storks, Ibises, Spoonbills, Falcons, Caracaras and Jacanas.  On the other hand, mammal fauna is equally rich and visible, particularly during the dry season when peccaries, armadillos, jaguarondis, coatis, agoutis, deer and monkeys are attracted to the river.  In Palo Verde there are 13 different habitats, including mangrove and swampy forests, salty and freshwater marshes, evergreen, lowland, limestone and secondary forests in a wide range of continuous stages.  Duration: 8 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee and lunch.  What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, sun block, insect repellent, hat, binoculars and camera.

Things To Do in Costa Rica

Rincón de la Vieja Park Hiking

Rincon de la Vieja is an active volcano located 16 miles north from Liberia, Guanacaste.  The volcano is 400 km2 with a large number of fumaroles and hot springs on its slopes. It’s most recently eruption was in February 1998.  The hike is rigorous but spectacular, starts in tropical moist forest and as you climb, continues into low wet forest where the trees are covered with epiphytic vegetation.  There are 257 species of birds that have been recorded and a great number of insect species; the park protects the largest population of wild purple orchid, the nation flower in Costa Rica.  This is one of the hotter drier areas of Costa Rica.  The surrounded region of Rincon de la Vieja has more predictable seasons than the rest of the country.  The chance of rain is much less during the dry season from December to April, but the higher you climb, the more likely you are to get wet at any time of the year.  Duration: 8 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee and lunch.  What to Bring: Hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, sun block, insect repellent, hat, binoculars and camera.  The park is closed on Mondays.

Things To Do in Costa Rica

Shopping Tour at Liberia City

Liberia is well known as White City, this name is coming from its whitewashed colonial houses built of bahareque (similar to adobe houses); this is a type of clay that gives houses a particularly white color.  Calle Real (Real Street) is one of the most popular streets of the city; it is considered an architectural jewel because of its colonial houses (both sides of the narrow street), decorated with Spanish-tile roofs.  At the city’s central park, you will have the opportunity to appreciate the daily life of this pictorial place and shopping at its handicrafts and nearby stores.  Duration: 5 hours.  Includes: Transportation and bilingual guide.  What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and camera.

Things To Do in Costa Rica

White Water Rafting Level III & IV

This tour is for adventurous people; a three-hour river ride through wildlife, birds, monkeys and dense vegetation.  After a couple of hours driving through countryside roads, you will arrive where the action begins.  This experience will let you admire nature at its greatest expression, paddle down the river against many rafts and turn your adrenaline raise high.  Duration: 8 hours.  Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, equipment and lunch.  What to Bring: Water shoes, swimsuit, towel, change of clothes and sun block.

Things To Do in Costa Rica

Full Board Meal Plan

Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Children are aged 3 to 12.

Things To Do in Costa Rica

Half Board Meal Plan

Includes breakfast and lunch OR dinner.  Children are aged 3 to 12.

Recommended Restaurants in Costa Rica

5th Night Free

Promotion based on standard rates.  Five (5) night minimum stay required.  Complimentary 5th night with every four consecutive paid nights.  Limited inventory available.  Blackout dates apply.

Hotel:
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica

Rate Includes:

Fifth night free with every four consecutive paid nights.

Travel Window: 06-July-2010 / 17-Dec-2010
Booking Window: 05-July-2010 / 17-Dec-2010

Terms and Conditions: Promotion based on standard rates. Five (5) night minimum stay required. Complimentary 5th night with every four consecutive paid nights. Limited inventory available. Blackout dates apply.

Experience More - $100-$500 Daily Resort Credit

Promotion based on standard rates.  Three (3) night minimum stay required.  $100 to $500 Resort Credit per inght (based on room type booked) applied at checkout.  Limited inventory available.  Blackout dates apply.

Hotel:
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica

Rate Includes:

Fifth night free with every four consecutive paid nights.

Travel Window: 06-July-2010 / 17-Dec-2010
Booking Window: 05-July-2010 / 17-Dec-2010

Terms and Conditions: Promotion based on standard rates. Three (3) night minimum stay required. $100 to $500 Resort Credit per inght (based on room type booked) applied at checkout. Limited inventory available. Blackout dates apply.

2011 Experience More - $100-$500 Daily Resort Credit

Promotion based on standard rates.  Three (3) night minimum stay required.  $100 to $500 Resort Credit per inght (based on room type booked) applied at checkout.  Limited inventory available.  Blackout dates apply.

--Garden & Deluxe Rooms:  $100 per room per night

--Premium Room:  $150 per room per night

--Canopy Suite (one bedroom):  $200 per room per night

--Canopy Suite Pool Suite (one bedroom):  $300 per room per night

--One Bedroom Residence Villa:  $300 per room per night

--Two Bedroom Residences & Villas:  $400 per room per night

--Three Bedroom Residences & Villas:  $500 per room per night

Hotel:
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica

Rate Includes:

--Garden & Deluxe Rooms:  $100 per room per night

--Premium Room:  $150 per room per night

--Canopy Suite (one bedroom):  $200 per room per night

--Canopy Suite Pool Suite (one bedroom):  $300 per room per night

--One Bedroom Residence Villa:  $300 per room per night

--Two Bedroom Residences & Villas:  $400 per room per night

--Three Bedroom Residences & Villas:  $500 per room per night

Travel Window: 06-July-2010 / 17-Dec-2010
Booking Window: 05-July-2010 / 17-Dec-2010

Terms and Conditions: Promotion based on standard rates. Blackout dates apply.