Tropical Costa Rica

Day 1

Day 1: Saturday, February 12, 2022
San Jose, Costa Rica / Tour Begins

Your trip to Costa Rica opens in the colorful capital city of San Jose, the perfect place to relax and soak up the sights as your adventure begins. Board your flight from the Quad City International Airport in Moline, IL and be whisked away from the cold of the Midwest to the Tropics!

Day 2

Day 2: Sunday, February 13, 2022
San Jose/Coffee Plantation/Guanacaste

Welcome to the Central Valley. Begin with a tour of a local coffee plantation highlighting the history and cultivation of this driver of the Costa Rican economy. This afternoon, arrive in breathtaking Guanacaste, known for its fine sandy beaches. Settle in for a relaxing 2-night stay at your resort and take in the mesmerizing ocean views. (B,D)

Day 3

Day 3: Monday, February 14, 2022
Guanacaste

Fun in the sun is in store today as you explore the nearby beaches, or simply relax by the pool and take advantage of your resort’s lovely amenities. This afternoon, visit the delightful beach town of Samara, one of the top sunset spots in Costa Rica. Soak in the spectacular colors as the sun illuminates the natural landscape. (B,D)

Day 4

Day 4: Tuesday, February 15, 2022
Guanacaste/Monteverde

It’s off to the secluded Monteverde Cloud Forest, a place you have to see to believe, where trees grow to heights of 100 feet! Set off on a nature walk through this spectacular ecosystem, where you’re sure to encounter many incredible species of flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled and you may be lucky enough to spot the elusive quetzal along with many other beautiful birds! (B,D)

Day 5

Day 5: Wednesday, February 16,
Monteverde/It’s Your Choice!

Explore one of the world’s largest butterfly gardens and a dazzling gallery containing more than 100 beautiful hummingbirds. Then, join an expert for a leisurely paced “Hanging Bridges” walking tour to gain a different perspective of the cloud forest’s lush ecosystem OR take an exhilarating ride on one of the longest canopy zip line tours in Costa Rica. If you would like to do both the hanging bridges and the zip line tour, you may purchase the second as an option on tour. This evening, take part in an expert-led discussion about the migratory birds that flock to Costa Rica. (B,D)

Day 6

Day 6: Thursday, February 17, 2022
Monteverde/Lake Arenal Cruise/Arenal

Uncover the importance of conservation in Costa Rica during a visit to a tree nursery. Learn about indigenous trees and Monteverde’s reforestation efforts. Cross beautiful mountainous landscapes to Arenal, where spectacular views of the famous volcano await your discovery. Enjoy a delightful cruise on Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest and most important lake. Later, check in for another 2-night stay at a lodge overlooking the majestic Arenal Volcano. Get to know the Costa Rican culture this evening. Taste your way through a cooking demonstration featuring local ingredients. (B,D)

Day 7

Day 7: Friday, February 18, 2022
Arenal/Cano Negro/Arenal

Embark on a Cano Negro guided riverboat trip in a covered canoe known as a panga. These 20,000 acres are home to the largest viewable collection of indigenous wildlife in all of Costa Rica. Go in search of caimans, river otters, sloths, monkeys, river turtles, exotic birds and rare butterflies. Later, return to Arenal for the chance to relax during an optional spa visit. (B)

Day 8

Day 8: Saturday, February 19, 2022
Arenal/Zarcero/San Jose

Today, get a little whimsical as we journey to the charming town of Zarcero to explore its fanciful topiary garden. Continue to San Jose to see the treasures of the city on a panoramic tour. See the bustling Plaza de Cultura. This evening, bid farewell to paradise over a wonderful dinner with your fellow travelers. (B,D)

Day 9

Day 9: Sunday, February 20, 2022
San Jose/Tour Ends

Today, you depart for home with fabulous memories of your Costa Rican adventure! (B)

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner