A land of rich natural wonders, Costa Rica is dedicated to eco-tourism and protecting its 600 miles of pristine beaches and lush tropical forests. Journey from San Jose, Costa Rica’s colorful capital city located in the country’s fertile Central Valley, to San Carlos. On your journey, pass the ancient Poas Volcano, reported to be the world’s widest crater. Relax during your two-night stay in a thermal spa resort surrounded by rainforest and hot springs. In Cano Negro, a guided river boat trip in a panga (covered canoe) makes frequent stops to watch and photograph the rare butterflies, birds, river turtles and otters, sloths and other wildlife indigenous to this area. Later, submerge yourself in the soothing hot, mineral-rich waters at Tabacon Springs. See 100-foot-tall trees amidst a rich collection of flora and fauna in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and admire the delicate inhabitants of a nearby local butterfly farm. Traveling to the scenic region of Guanacaste on the northwest Pacific coast, stop a local cooperative and see its handmade products before arriving at your elegant beach resort overlooking the magnificent blue waters of Manazanillo Beach. Before heading home, enjoy some free time in Sarchi to shop for native crafts and souvenirs.      

• Learn about the nature of Costa Rica on a guided nature walk through the cloud forest.
• Visit a Monteverde coffee factory and discover the benefits of coffee grown in the cloud forest.
• Witness locals crafting homemade goods from the area's natural resources in Guanacaste.
• Experience views of the 3,000 year-old Arenal Volcano.
• Relax in the mineral-rich thermal waters of Tabacon Springs.

Day 1: Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica
Your tour begins in San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica. Join Collette Vacations in exploring this tropical paradise. Experience the lush forests, magnificent waterfalls, rumbling volcanoes, endless coastlines and diverse eco-systems in a place that preserves its delicate ecology for all to enjoy. Costa Rica offers a piece of paradise to all who visit.

Day 2: San Jose - San Carlos
Driving through the countryside, a dominant feature of the landscape is the ancient Poas Volcano, said to be the widest crater in the world. Continue to San Carlos where you will enjoy two nights at a thermal spa resort, surrounded by a tropical rain forest and hot springs. (B, D)

Day 3: San Carlos - Cano Negro - San Carlos
Of all Costa Rica's nature preserves, the remote 20,000-acres of Cano Negro have the largest viewable selection of indigenous wildlife. Embark on a guided river boat trip in a panga (covered canoe), making frequent stops to watch and photograph the wildlife around you. Crocodiles, river otters, sloths, river turtles, exotic birds and rare butterflies are known to live in the area. Later this afternoon you arrive at Tabacon Springs where you can submerge yourself in the soothing hot, mineral-rich waters. Enjoy a delightful dinner with magnificent views (weather permitting) of the impressive Arenal Volcano. (B, D)

Day 4: San Carlos - Monteverde
Start your day with a refreshing thermal water aerobics session at the hotel spa. Later, travel into the Monteverde Cloud Forest where trees grow to heights of 100 feet! Encounter the many thriving species of flora and fauna. During a visit to a local butterfly farm experience the habitats and development of these beautiful and delicate creatures. (B, D)

Day 5: Monteverde
A morning nature walk gives you a unique opportunity to discover the natural beauty of the Cloud Forest first hand. The forest is known to be the home of the world's largest population of the endangered quetzal. In the afternoon visit a local coffee production facility to experience first hand how a first choice bean is transformed into your morning cup of coffee. (B, D)

Day 6: Monteverde - Guanacaste
Today you travel to the scenic region of Guanacaste on the northwest Pacific coast. En route, a special stop is made at a local cooperative where locals provide an interesting demonstration showcasing handmade products. Later, you arrive at the beautiful Allegro Resort Papagayo, beautifully situated on the magnificent blue waters of Manazanillo Beach. Rest and relaxation go hand in hand with mesmerizing ocean views and lush tropical greenery. Enjoy a walk along the beach or relax by the pool. (B, L, D)

Day 7: Guanacaste
Your day is at leisure in this tropical paradise. This all-inclusive resort has daily activities by the pool and beach area and their own private beach club only 10 minutes away by boat. (B, L, D)

Day 8: Guanacaste - Sarchi - San Jose
A leisurely ride through the countryside brings you to Sarchi to shop and visit the local oxcart factory. Your evening is highlighted by a farewell dinner. (B, D)

Day 9: San Jose - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today. (B)


Stay Another Night - Add a pre or post night stay in San Jose. Prices start at $60 per person, double.