The Parks of Costa Rica

This 9-day The Parks of Costa Rica vacation package allows you to explore the diverse eco-systems and enjoy an amazing holiday experience. This is an ideal one-of-a-kind holiday adventure for Friends and Family. Visit quaint and colorful villages; enjoy the soothing waters of the Ecotermales Hot Springs & Spa in the Arenal Volcano; admire the dwarf rain forest at the Poas Volcano; survey the majestic La Paz Waterfalls & Gardens; wow at the view of the impressive Arenal Volcano; spot the wildlife at the Cano Negro Wildlife Reserve; reveal the mystical beauty of the Monteverde Cloud Forest; discover the serene beauty of the Manuel Antonio Beach Park in the Mid-Pacific Coast.

Day 1 | Bienvenidos to San Jose, Costa Rica

Your EcoAmerica Tours representative will greet you at the airport, assist you with your luggage and provide you with a private van transfer to the hotel of your choice (*) for a two-night stay. Check-in is available after 2:00 PM.

• Standard Class: Country Inn & Suites By Carlson
• First Class: Wyndham Herradura
• Superior Class: DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari
• Deluxe Class: Costa Rica Marriott

(*) Chosen hotels are subject to availability at time of booking; if not available, similar hotels in category and price range will be offered.

Day 2 | Poas Volcano Park, Doka Coffee Plantation and La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Nature Center | B.L.

After breakfast, meet other fellow travelers, board the tour bus and begin a full day of excursions through the evergreen Central Valley with stops at three of the most fascinating attractions:  the Doka Coffee Plantation, the Poas Volcano National Park with its active geyser crater and the dwarf Rainforest, and the beautiful La Paz Waterfall Gardens with its Nature Walkways, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Gallery, and Bird House. A delicious buffet lunch is included at La Paz Waterfall Gardens. After lunch, you will return to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure.

Day 3 | Shared Transfer from San Jose to Arenal / Afternoon Nature Walk at the Arenal National Park Area, the Rainforest of the Highlands / EcoTermales Hot Springs | B.D.

After breakfast at the hotel, the shuttle bus driver will help you load your luggage for your scenic ride across the Continental Divide and through beautiful landscapes. Check-in at the hotel of your choice (*) for a two-night stay. In the afternoon, enjoy the most extraordinary view of the Arenal Volcano from a lookout point along the base of this marvelous “Mountain of Fire.” Our tour start with a stop at the active side of the volcano, where you can observe the forest over recent lava flows and the destroyed area now in the process of regeneration. Afterwards, relax in the thermal hot springs and pools at the Ecotermales Thermal Pools. Ecotermales Fortuna is the crown jewel of a family owned and operated farm. Located on the foothills of the mighty Arenal Volcano, amidst the calm beauty of a lush tropical forest. Ecotermales offers their guests the unique opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the volcano while wondering around the nature trails observing different species of birds native to the region. At the end of the trails, guests will enjoy four hot springs pools and refresh themselves with a cold tropical drink prepare by a member of the family. Following their relaxing hot springs mineral water experience, guests will savor a homemade meal (with handmade tortillas included) at the farm’s main rancho, where other member of the family will make certain that your visit ends with a great meal and attentive service.

• Standard Class: La Pradera Hotel
• First Class: Magic Mountain Hotel
• Superior Class: Arenal Manoa Hotel
• Deluxe Class: Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa (Couple’s or Family Suites)

(*) Chosen hotels are subject to availability at time of booking; if not available, similar hotels in category and price range will be offered.

Day 4 | Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge | B.L.

Today, your local guide will escort you on a full day land and water expedition. Begin your journey with a scenic drive to the northern village of Los Chiles, drive through the San Carlos plains enjoying the beautiful scenery of the side of the road, where a great variety of agricultural products are cultivated, such as: sugar cane, cassava (yucca), pineapples, bananas, papayas, orange trees, legumes, and other fruits and vegetables. Located near the border of Nicaragua, The Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge and Rio Frio (Frio River) are biological humid areas considered to be one of the richest in biological diversity in Costa Rica where a great variety of flora and fauna can be observed. The northern wetlands are considered among Costa Rica’s most eco diverse areas. Board your expedition boat and enjoy a Nature Cruise in search of exotic fauna. The Canals of the River “Rio Frio” and its breathtaking surroundings are home to thousands of animals, and with some luck you will have to opportunity to see monkeys, sloth, caimans, turtles, bats and a great variety of birds living in their natural habitat. Return to the hotel after lunch.

Day 5 | Arenal to the Monteverde Cloud Forest | B.

Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel. At the appropriate time, board the shuttle van for your semi-private shared transfer to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Enjoy a scenic ride along the beautiful shoreline of the Arenal Lake and across the Tilaran Mountain Range. Check-in at the hotel of your choice (*) in Monteverde for an overnight stay. Balance of the day is at leisure. We suggest a visit to the quaint village of Santa Elena; this outing will give you a chance to meet some of the locals.

• Standard Class: Monteverde Country Lodge
• First Class: Ficus Hotel
• Superior Class: El Establo Hotel (Deluxe Room)
• Deluxe Class: El Establo Hotel (Jr. Suite)

(*) Chosen hotels are subject to availability at time of booking; if not available, similar hotels in category and price range will be offered.

Day 6 | Morning Guided Visit of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve / Private transfer to the Manuel Antonio National Park | B.

Today, your local host will call for you to partake on a visit of the Private Cloud Forest Reserve. Monteverde covers 26,000 acres of forest, including several different life zones that are characterized by different types of plants and animals. Within this small area are more than 2,000 species of plants, 400 species of birds, including the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, and 100 different species of mammals. At the end of the exploration, you will be driven back to your hotel to retrieve your luggage and proceed with a scenic private drive down to the tropical lowlands of the Mid- Pacific. On arrival at the beach, check-in at the resort of your choice (*) for a three-night stay. Balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beach and the resort’s facilities. 

• Standard Class: Tabulia Tree Hotel
• First Class: Costa Verde Hotel (Efficiency Room)
• Superior Class: La Mariposa Hotel (Ocean View Standard Room)
• Deluxe Class: Parador Resort (Premium Ocean View Room)

(*) Chosen hotels are subject to availability at time of booking; if not available, similar hotels in category and price range will be offered.

Days 7 & 8 | Enjoying the Beach & the facilities of your selected hotel / On the Day of your Choice a Half Day Morning Visit to the Park | B.

These are two full days at leisure at the beach. Slow down, enjoy, and indulge in a great Costa Rica beach get-away, you are worth it! All we have planned is a half day morning visit to the Park for a close up natural encounter with abundant fauna and flora. During your nature walk, you may want to stop and observe (or learn about) this natural and breathtaking habitat. Watch for  sloths and numerous species of monkeys as they travel through the tree canopy, hunt for nocturnal silky anteaters and several types of non-poisonous snakes resting in the tropical rain forest, and listen to the songs of the various birds as they glide above your group, curiously looking for adventure. At the end of the visit, you will be driven back to your hotel or remain at the beach and provide your own way back to the hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure. NOTES: park is closed on Mondays. Please choose the date of your park visit at booking time; once booked, no changes are allowed.

Day 9 | Manuel Antonio / Quepos Airport / San Jose Intl. Airport | B.

At the appropriate time, departure transfer from your Manuel Antonio hotel to the Quepos airstrip for a short flight to the San Jose Intl. Airport (airfare is included).

PRICES PER PERSON STARTING AT US$1,756.00

– SHARING DOUBLE ACCOMMODATIONS –

STANDARD CLASS HOTELS

               

In San Jose: Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Hotel Make the most of your trip to beautiful Costa Rica with the convenience and comforts at the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson®, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica. Lounge beside the two outdoor pools and enjoy fresh, local dining at the on-site Mambi Restaurant. Before setting out to explore nearby Pueblo Antiguo, INBioparque or other San Jose attractions, enjoy a hot breakfast compliments of the hotel, or stay in and order room service. This modern hotel also offers free high-speed Internet access and extended-stay suites, and it is within nine kilometers of the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) with a convenient airport shuttle for guests.

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In Arenal: La Pradera Hotel is a family establishment offering you a satisfying and memorable stay during your holiday in Arenal. The hotel gardens abound with many beautiful birds. Take a dip, cool off or just relax around a beautiful swimming pool and Jacuzzi. All rooms have a private terrace and a breathtaking view of the volcano. After a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens, enjoy the best restaurant in the zone featuring national and international food. You may also share stories of your adventures over a cocktail or a variety of beers in the bar. To add to your comfort, amenities include air conditioning, cable TV and wireless Internet. La Pradera is located 2 km from the town of La Fortuna, on the road to the Arenal Volcano Park.

                

In Monteverde: Monteverde Country Lodge. Focused on family trips and looking forward to providing guests with the most typical Costa Rican lodging experience, Monteverde Country Lodge combines accessible prices with 20 years of tradition. The grounds’ neatly kept gardens, amenities and infrastructure create an experience of authentic Costa Rican hospitality. Gardens surround the wooden detailed rooms; patios, fountains and nice front corridors create an excellent combination for relaxation and enjoyment. Amenities include a charming restaurant, bar, and lush gardens to leisurely stroll through. Access to an indoor pool, a hot tub and a gym is available at a sister property. Free Wi-Fi keeps you in touch. Grab a book, a glass of wine or a pair of binoculars and forget about everything else!

The lodge excels in offering personalized attention, excellence in consumer service and authentic Monteverde hospitality. Located less than 10 minutes away from the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve and in walking distance from downtown Santa Elena, Monteverde Country Lodge is the perfect option for those who are looking for cozy lodging, nice rest and easy access to all the activities Monteverde has to offer. Monteverde Country Lodge rooms have cable TV, safe deposit boxes, coffee makers, and a hot water shower.

              

In Manuel Antonio: Tabulia Tree hotel is a cozy family hotel in the Manuel Antonio region of Costa Rica. Featuring completely renovated rooms overlooking the forest and noted for the luxurious beds and modern amenities including Wi-Fi. The simple but tasteful decor will make you feel in paradise. The famous Bambu Jam Restaurant features a wide variety of international dishes of the highest quality. The gorgeous outdoor pool is stunning set against the backdrop of spectacular sunset views. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens that feature flowers and exotic plants which are indigenous to Costa Rica. Do not be too surprised if you have monkeys visiting you during your stay!

FIRST CLASS HOTELS

               

In San Jose: Wyndham Plaza Herradura Hotel With a prime location just minutes from San Jose’s International Airport (SJO), visitors to Costa Rica’s capital city will find the Wyndham the ideal retreat, with a wealth of amenities, an idyllic setting and world-class service. There are three restaurants and a stylish bar offering a variety of cuisines, and a daily bountiful, complimentary breakfast buffet. Each of the hotel’s 230 over-sized, 100% non-smoking guest rooms features contemporary styling, a unique fusion of warm and cool tones and thoughtful amenities like a flat panel TV, free Wi-Fi, plush bedding and ultra-modern air conditioning. Superior Rooms offer breathtaking views of the lush gardens.

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In Arenal: Magic Mountain Hotel is a colonial modern hotel, located in La Fortuna facing the Arenal Volcano providing visitors with a stunning view of the colossal Volcano Arenal. It is surrounded by an exotic tropical zone, lush foliage and magnificent scenery. This property offers a prime location, panoramic volcano views, luxury accommodations and unrivaled service. We are nearby to downtown shops, souvenirs and other points of interest as well as the “hot springs”. All guest rooms feature an outdoor balcony or terrace that overlook the Volcano and are impeccably furnished with tiled private bathrooms, desk, and either a king bed or two double beds. For your convenience, all guest rooms are equipped with high-speed wireless internet access, telephone line and an in-room safe. The hotel has swimming pools, Jacuzzis, elevator, Spa, meeting and conference space, and innovative international cuisine at Lina’s Restaurant and at Magic Sport’s Bar. Hotel Magic Mountain will leave you with an unforgettable experience while making plans to return!

                

In Monteverde: Ficus Hotel is a very modern, beautiful hotel located in the heart of Monteverde. Set on the hillside, it offers views of the Gulf of Nicoya and the surrounding Cloud Forest. Each suite at the hotel provides a very modern, comfortable and peaceful feel. Relax in your spacious and tastefully decorated suite. Brilliantly finished wood and the artwork of Peruvian painter Batista greet you after a day of adventure. Large modern bathrooms, beautifully decorated queen size beds, air conditioning, and an open balcony with a second sitting area provide all the ingredients for the best night’s sleep. An eclectic menu of tantalizing seafood, mouth-watering poultry, and delicious vegetables grown in the local garden await you at Antawara Restaurant. Enjoy an incredible sunset as you relax on your balcony while taking in a one of a kind view of the stunning town of Monteverde!

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In Manuel Antonio: Costa Verde Hotel (Efficiency Room) Just three hundred yards from the beach overlooking the world famous Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Verde features 3 cliff-side pools with sundecks, and spacious rooms, studios and bungalows. All rooms offer balconies with a bird’s-eye view of the Park’s majestic coastline or rainforest canopy vistas dotted with toucans, sloths, coatis and monkeys. Costa Verde Hotel has been developed and refined so guests can enjoy a unique brand of tropical luxury. This jungle oasis is perfect for families, groups or couples offering accommodations with a variety of options for vacation living; on-site spa, personalized services, and four unique restaurants to suit all tastes.

Costa Verde Hotel is just 3 miles from the village of Quepos and 2 hours by car from San Jose International Airport. Costa Verde is a perfect destination for either a short stay or for those seeking a comfortable base camp for adventure travel, ecotourism, sport fishing, surfing or the peace and tranquility of Manuel Antonio’s legendary white sand beaches and National Park.

SUPERIOR CLASS HOTELS

               

In San Jose: DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari Hotel Conveniently located only fifteen minutes from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), this San Jose Costa Rica hotel is a haven in the capital city of the country and the perfect location for your leisure trip. It is also a great place to start exploring the country or to relax before returning home. All the guest rooms boast elegant design featuring our exclusive Sweet Dreams® beds with plush top mattress and jumbo hypo-allergenic pillows. Modern amenities include a 37-inch cable TV with Spanish and English networks, in-room climate control and more. The bathroom features a tub/shower combination and luxurious bath products. For your convenience, free Wi-Fi access is available in public areas. To keep in shape, enjoy the onsite 24-hour fitness center.

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In Arenal: Arenal Manoa Hotel is a destination resort created for you to enjoy the combination of a high-quality service and an exuberant natural beauty. Everything starts with our Jr. suites that combine modern and rustic architecture, with plenty of space for your comfort, where you can enjoy the view of the Arenal Volcano from your own bed, also a big bathroom with a  little garden just to emphasize the natural beauty that surrounds our estate. While resting in your private terrace, enjoy impressive vistas of the mighty Arenal and the beautiful gardens of our property. Guests at Arenal Manoa can take advantage of the spacious gardens for walking and meditation as well as the opportunities to see the daily operations of a typical Costa Rican farm. Our Junior Suites have been designed in a way that you cannot fail to see any detail of the panoramic view of the Volcano from your own room. Each one is equipped with: Two Queen-sized beds, A/C, satellite television, private bath with hot water and a hair dryer, telephone, volcano-view terrace, refrigerator, safe-deposit box, coffee maker. Our services include: a lovely restaurant, a fun lounge, and a great swimming pool.

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In MonteVerde: El Establo Hotel is a family owned hotel nestled in the misty cloud forest of Monteverde, offering the best quality services that will make your trip an unforgettable experience. The family is half Costa Rican – half Quaker, allowing you to share the best of both cultures. The hotel employs the most charming staff and the best view in the area. You may practice your serve on the tennis court or shoot some hoops on the basketball court. There is a mini soccer court and hiking trails for those wanting to commune with nature. Soothe your aching muscles in one of the heated indoor pools and then pamper yourself at the spa. Each room features large bathrooms and a sitting area, wall to wall carpeting, telephone, coffee maker, safety deposit box, mini-bar, hair dryer and cable TV.

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In Manuel Antonio: La Mariposa Hotel. Located in one of the world’s most magnificent settings, Hotel La Mariposa stands majestically atop the highest point in Manuel Antonio, from where 360 degree views overlook the Pacific Ocean, spectacular sunsets and the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park. Nature and charm combine flawlessly to create 62 well-appointed rooms of Spanish-Mediterranean architectural design, surrounded by tropical gardens, with walkways and trails, meticulously landscaped to reflect the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s abundant flora and fauna. Offering the most inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, from your private balcony, relax and hear the sounds of the surf and gaze at the breathtaking Panoramic Ocean Views or experience some of the most incredible Sunsets in the world.

Sunset Village: Located directly on the beach, offers guests unforgettable ocean front sunset views. Feel the gentle breeze from the sea on your face from one of our sunset ocean-view rooms, just few steps away from the ocean. The spacious seafront area has been completely gardened to take full advantage of Costa Rica’s most famous beach. The experience is simply astonishing.

DELUXE CLASS HOTELS

               

In San Jose: Costa Rica Marriott Hotel San Jose. Drink in the unique architecture, elegant furnishings and luscious surroundings of this beautiful colonial hacienda set on a 30 acre coffee plantation. Captivating grounds, exceptional service and a relaxing ambiance await you. Unwind in either of their two swimming pools, or take a stroll on their lush garden paths. The state-of-the-art fitness center or well-lit tennis courts are the perfect place to work up a sweat, while their full-service Kuö Spa will pamper you with luxurious treatments. Experience a number of acclaimed restaurants, including La Castilla, where talented chefs prepare sushi right in front of guests. Fine dining, exquisite tapas and wines are offered at La Isabela, known as one of the best restaurants in San Jose. Sophisticated rooms and suites boast plush bedding and 24-hour room service. Book your stay for an unforgettable experience at Costa Rica Marriott in San Jose.

Sophisticated rooms and suites boast plush bedding and 24-hour room service. Enjoy, magnificent natural attractions such as volcanoes, rainforest excursions and canopy zip-line tours service. The Marriott San Jose was voted by Condé Nast as one of the best hotels in Central America.

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In Arenal: Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa offers a majestic view of the Arenal Volcano. It is located on 27 acres of beautiful rolling hills surrounded by two streams, La Palma and Kioro, flowing with crystalline waters that begin in the Arenal Volcano National Park. Nearby are private thermal springs surrounded by exuberant gardens for your delight. Drink in the extraordinary panoramic views of the volcano and mountains from the two terraces. The airy, jungle-themed rooms with volcano and garden views feature all the amenities one expects: air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Feast on exquisite local and international cuisine by the award winning chef specializing in red meat as well as seafood. Neidin Spa is a little nest where you can awaken your senses with the sounds of nature. Come and let us pamper you!

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In MonteVerde: El Establo Hotel (Jr. Suite): Nestled in the misty cloud forest of Monteverde, El Establo offers the best quality services that will make your trip an unforgettable experience: The area’s best view, heated indoor pools, spa, restaurants, cafe-bars, special events center, internet access, souvenirs shop, tennis court, basketball court, mini soccer court, hiking trails, and the most charming staff. This half Costarican – half Quaker, family owned hotel, will allow you to share the best of both cultures. It is located in Monteverde, 7 km from the Santa Elena Cloudforest Reserve, and 4 km from the Monteverde Cloudforest Reserve. Each room features Queen or King-size beds, wall to tall carpeting, large bathrooms, closet, sitting area, telephone, coffee maker, safety deposit box, mini-bar, hair dryer and cable TV. While at El Establo, guests will have the choice of two different restaurants: Las Riendas, with a buffet-style world-class service and Laggus, which offers the finest dining in the region.

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In Manuel Antonio: Parador Resort & Spa. (Premium Ocean View Room)This resort offers panoramic ocean views on 12 acres of wildlife-rich tropical rainforest. Surrounded by expansive jungle, Parador features well-appointed rooms and suites, various restaurants featuring an international array of cuisines, multiple bars and lounges, a world-class spa, tennis court, and three ocean-view pools. Every room and suite is equipped with cable TV, mini-bar, coffee maker, A/C and ceiling fans, safety deposit boxes, iron and board, hair dryer, and telephone. Guests at Parador Resort can spend their days lounging in the sun by the resort’s three pools (two adults only) or on one of Manuel Antonio’s white sand beaches, including Playa Biesanz adjacent to the hotel. Winding nature trails cover the expansive grounds from where you can watch migrating whales or schools of dolphins, exotic birds, three species of monkeys, sloths, coatimundi, and a variety of reptiles.

• Prices are subject to change and can only be guaranteed after booking confirmation.
• Please refer to the attached terms and conditions as presented in the credit card authorization form and in the Terms of Travel section in our website. These terms apply in full to this travel program.
• Reservation: A $300.00 deposit per person is required to activate and process your reservation.
• Final Payment: The balance is due 65 days prior to the start of your tour. If full final payment has not been received by the due date, EcoAmerica Tours reserves the right to cancel the reservation without notice.
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• The price does not include: personal expenses, additional activities, international and local airfares as well as airports departure taxes (unless otherwise indicated), gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, bell and wait staff, and any other service not listed.
• Airfares, if any, booked through EcoAmerica Tours may require immediate ticketing, if so, you will be notified accordingly. In most cases, the airfare charge(s) will appear on your credit card statement as processed by the airline(s) used for your travel arrangements.
• None of the services have been requested nor confirmed at this time (unless otherwise indicated). If the selected hotels are not available, we will make our best effort to obtain the next best available hotel in the same city/region. We should have confirmation of the suggested services and facilities and/or suitable alternatives within 48 hours after receiving your deposit, which will be applied to the final payment.
• Meal Codes: B = Breakfast. L = Lunch. D = Dinner.
• All tour services are SIB shared basis (unless otherwise indicated).
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