Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures - Costa Rica: Nature's Museum

Clearwing or Glasswing butterfly Journey to Costa Rica, a land of rich natural wonders and friendly people. Travel beyond San Jose, Costa Rica’s colorful capital city, to explore the outstanding variety of flora and fauna in three important nature reserves: Braulio Carrillo National Park, Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Enjoy the many pristine natural wonders of Costa Rica through exclusive excursions and special presentations, as well as unscheduled time for personal discovery.

Educational Highlights

Our expert Costa Rican naturalist takes you off the beaten path to discover the nation’s spectacular flora and fauna, geological wonders, and tropical forest ecology as you journey from the coastal lowlands into the cloud forests of the central highlands.

Learn about the unique flavors and processing techniques of Costa Rican coffee production at a coffee plantation.
Enjoy a discussion on the geology of Costa Rica’s active and dormant volcanoes, and their environmental and economic impact on the nation.
Learn about the differences between Costa Rica’s varied forest environments.
Enhance your visit to the Butterfly Farm with a discussion on the diverse, colorful butterflies and unique indigenous insects found in Costa Rica.

10 days • 18 Meals

Departure Dates
1/14/2008	2/4/2008	2/18/2008	3/10/2008
4/14/2008
Click a Departure Date to request a quote!

Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica	Tonight, gather for a special reception and dinner. (D)
Day 2 San Jose - Braulio Carrillo National Park	Braulio Carrillo National Park offers one of the richest rain forest canopies in the world, the perfect introduction to the variety of forests in Costa Rica. Ride on the aerial tram to view the unique flora and fauna of the canopy; then take a brief nature walk for a different perspective. Returning to San Jose, tour the colorful Plaza de Cultural; the National Museum, which houses a collection of pre-Columbian art and other exhibits detailing the history of Costa Rica; and the National Theater, a magnificent building of post-baroque splendor. Tonight, immerse yourself in local culture as you dine with a Costa Rican family. (B, D)
Day 3 San Jose - Poas Volcano - San Carlos	View the spectacular scenery of the Central Valley, ringed by soaring mountains, as you travel to the mammoth Poas Volcano. Walk to the edge of the crater for a magnificent view of this amazing landscape. Attend a tour of the Doka Coffee Plantation that highlights the importance of the coffee industry in Costa Rica. Continue north to San Carlos where you will spend two nights in a sprawling rain forest resort. Enjoy a tour of the botanical garden and butterfly conservatory upon arrival. (B, D)
Day 4 San Carlos - Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge	The Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge is a remote 20,000-acre jungle refuge with an amazing variety of birds and indigenous wildlife, including spider and howler monkeys and two-toed sloths. Today, embark on a guided riverboat trip down the Rio Frio to observe this exotic wildlife. Later this afternoon, experience the beauty of the geothermal region surrounding the impressive Arenal Volcano when you arrive at Ecothermalis, a family-owned hot springs oasis. Enjoy a walk through the beautiful grounds, soak in the soothing, hot mineral rich waters, or take advantage of the first rate spa services. (B, D)
Day 5 San Carlos - Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve	This morning you depart the central region and journey around breathtaking Arenal Lake, arriving in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, situated high in the Tilaran Mountains. One of the best-known reserves, Monteverde supports six distinct ecological zones. It is known for its majestic tall trees festooned with orchids, other bromeliads, ferns, vines, and mosses, and more than 400 species of birds, including the rare Resplendent Quetzal. Upon arrival enjoy some time at leisure to pursue individual interests. (B, D)
Day 6 Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve	Explore the rich collection of flora and fauna in the reserve as your naturalist identifies a wide variety of species during a nature walk. At the nearby Hummingbird Gallery observe dozens of vividly colored hummingbirds as they gather around the many feeders. Continue to the Butterfly Farm to attend a special presentation and walk through the fully screened gardens where hundreds of delicate, exotic butterflies are easy to identify. (B, D)
Day 7 Monteverde - Guanacaste	Descend the Tilaran Mountains, taking in the spectacular unspoiled natural scenery before arriving in Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s northernmost province. Your resort, centered in the mountain landscape, provides majestic views and fascinating geothermal activity. Enjoy a delightful dinner and an evening at leisure. (B, D)
Day 8 Guanacaste	Your day is at leisure to enjoy your surroundings. You may choose from many optional excursions such as horseback riding or touring Ricon de Vjeia volcano. Or simply relax and enjoy the resort’s outstanding spa. (B, D)
Day 9 Guanacaste - San Jose	Enjoy a final morning at leisure before your return to San Jose. Gather this evening for a festive farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 10 San Jose -	Tour Concludes (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

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