Costa Rica, Jungle & Sea

March 13-24, 2010 | $ 2495 US

Trip difficulty:  Moderately Strenuous (rated 3 out of 5)

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Trip Highlights:

* Surfing on the Pacific coast
* Open-air yoga class
* Day hike to remote waterfall on Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
* Ocean kayak & snorkeling over brilliant coral reefs
* Explore the trails & beaches of Corcovado National Park
* Dozing off in your tent to the song of monkeys and birds and a warm tropical breeze
* Witness Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity
* Enjoy the simple, delicious cuisine of fresh fruits, seafood, and rice & beans
* Find out why anyone who’s been to Costa Rica says the Ticos are some of the most wonderful people you’ll meet in the world!

To the true adventurer, Costa Rica is ultimate bliss.

On this cross-country “backpacking” trip we will be exploring Costa Rica from head to toe, from jungle to sea, from volcano-tops to ancient underwater coral reefs. If you have ever dreamed of visiting Central America or Costa Rica, or if you find your mouth watering while skimming through this page… sign up and join our 12-person team! It may just be your best opportunity to get the most unique tour of this wild & diverse country, at the most affordable price.

A main focus of every Black Bear Explorers trip is hiking… but we had never seen or heard of a real hiking trip in Costa Rica, so we just had to put one together! The parks and trails are simply world-class; there are sensational vistas and photographic opportunities around every corner.  Of course we’ll also be taking advantage of the ideal snorkeling spots, surfing beaches, and other activities this paradise has to offer. You will also be staying in a few enchanting mountain-side cabinas, and enjoying tropical cocktails at some sublime little beach-side restaurants, but make sure you’ve got your camping gear and you’re packed for action too!

Costa Rica keeps a greater proportion of land protected than any other country in the world, 23%, and the Ticos (Costa Ricans) have a strong culture of respect for their natural heritage. Local tour guides are customarily well-schooled, experienced and passionate. Thanks to the extensive National Park system we’ll be able to visit pristine coastal, marine, and mountain environments, and observe exquisite wildlife its natural habitat. Get your camera ready!

Itinerary

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .click to VIEW A MAP of the itinerary. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Day 1
Saturday, March 13th: Arrive in San Jose

Day 2
Sunday, March 14th: Drive to Rincon De La Vieja National Park.
Hike to a beautiful waterfall and take a refreshing swim in the clear, blue pool.
Set up camp and enjoy your first night under the star-filled Costa Rica sky!

Day 3
Monday, March 15th: Climb the summit of Rincon De La Vieja volcano (6,385 ft)
Drive to the village of Samara, on the Nicoya Peninsula

Day 4
Tuesday, March 16th: Sleep in or take an early morning jog on the beach.
This morning we’ll have some time to relax, explore the ocean and the town.
In the afternoon, drive a few miles to Nosara for yoga class or surfing lessons.

Day 5
Wednesday, March 17th: Travel day
We will take a ferry ride to the mainland, and head south to Ballena Marine NP.
Delicious lunch in Quepos, and possible afternoon waterfall tour.

Day 6
Thursday, March 18th: Get an early start for an ocean kayak & snorkeling tour.
in the warm, protected nesting waters for humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles!

Day 7
Friday, March 19th: Drive to our trailhead in Corcovado NP, on the Osa Peninsula.
Begin our backpacking trip, this first day will be a short, easy hike.
Before preparing dinner we’ll have several options for day hikes through the rainforest.

Day 8
Saturday, March 20th: Hike to Sirena ranger station on the Pacific Coast,
9 miles over a lush mountain ridge on well-marked, easy/moderate trails.
At Sirena We’ll be served a warm dinner of authentic Costa Rican cuisine.

Day 9
Sunday, March 21st:  Day hike from our camp at Sirena.
We will hike along the coast, taking dips in the ocean and observing native wildlife.

Day 10
Monday, March 22nd: Hike 6 miles along the beach to the village of Carate.
Tonight may be the perfect time to enjoy a full body massage at one of the local spas!

Day 11
Tuesday, March 23rd: Travel day- back to San Jose, to meet your morning flight.
Last chance to explore the capital city, visit the National Theater and one several museums.

Day 12
Wednesday, March 24th: After breakfast at our unique downtown hotel, we will say our goodbyes and make sure you catch your morning flight.

Facts About Costa Rica

• It’s about the size of Vermont & New Hampshire combined, 19,730 sq mi.
• A greater proportion of protected land than any other country in the world, 23%.
• Costa Rica’s highest elevation point is Cerro Chirripo’s summit at 12,532 feet.
• The highest volcano is Volcan Irazu at 11,257 feet.
• The exchange rate averages around 581 CRC (Costa Rica Colon) per 1 USD.

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Questions about the trip?  Ask us first.