Road Scholar : Home
A Taste of Costa Rica

Program Number: 8577RJ
Start and End Dates:
12/1/2012 - 12/9/2012; 7/8/2013 - 7/16/2013; 9/9/2013 - 9/17/2013; 10/7/2013 - 10/15/2013; 11/4/2013 - 11/12/2013; 12/2/2013 - 12/10/2013; 1/6/2014 - 1/14/2014; 1/20/2014 - 1/28/2014; 2/3/2014 - 2/11/2014; 2/13/2014 - 2/21/2014; 3/3/2014 - 3/11/2014; 3/17/2014 - 3/25/2014; 4/10/2014 - 4/18/2014; 5/5/2014 - 5/13/2014; 6/2/2014 - 6/10/2014; 7/6/2014 - 7/14/2014; 8/18/2014 - 8/26/2014; 9/1/2014 - 9/9/2014; 10/6/2014 - 10/14/2014; 11/3/2014 - 11/11/2014; 12/1/2014 - 12/9/2014;
Duration: 8 nights
Location: Costa Rica
Price starting at: $1,554.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Natural History
Meals: 22; 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners    
Meal Options: Low Fat; Vegetarian; Low Salt    

Low-level clouds drift through the sweet cedar and hanging moss. Even in dim sunlight, the orchid’s flowers brighten your path as you hike. In this interdisciplinary introduction to Costa Rica, learn about the nation’s rain and cloud forests and the inseparable bond between the people and the land. Explore volcanic terrain and tropical gardens, as well as culture and history. Meet residents in local communities for an intimate experience of this peaceful nation.




Highlights

• Hike through the mystical cloud forest on a combination of nature trails and hanging bridges.
• Walk on lava fields and search for resident wildlife at Arenal Volcano National Park.
• An interactive presentation introduces one of the most important gourmet coffee roasters in Costa Rica.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to 1.5 hours a day over uneven trails in hot and humid conditions.




Date Specific Information

1-6-2014, 2-3-2014, 2-13-2014, 3-3-2014, 4-10-2014, 5-5-2014, 6-2-2014, 7-6-2014, 8-18-2014, 9-1-2014, 10-6-2014, 11-3-2014, 12-1-2014

Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



1-20-2014

Can be taken in conjuction with 18125-01/14/2014
Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



3-17-2014

Can be taken in conjunction with 18125-03/11/2014
Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival San José, 1 night; coach to Sarapiquí, 2 nights; coach to Arenal, 2 nights; coach to Monteverde, 2 nights; coach to San José, 1 night; departure.



Arrival San Jose
1 night
Coach to Sarapiqui
2 nights

View thousands of different examples of gold artifacts and study the history of Pre-Columbian Costa Rica during a lecture at the Gold Museum. After a visit to a pineapple plantation, one of the nation’s cash crops, look for wildlife on the banks of the Sarapiqui River during a boat ride, and discuss life in modern-day rural Costa Rica with local residents at the Sarapiqui Learning and Conservation Center.



Coach to Arenal Volcano
2 nights

A lecture discussing vulcanology precedes a walk in the Arenal Volcano National Park to witness the impact of past eruptions and explore the region’s geography and wildlife. Bathe in its thermal waters and learn about the tools scientists use when attempting to predict eruptions. Enjoy dinner in the rural village of La Fortuna for a taste of local specialties made with yucca, plantains and gallo pinto.



Coach to Monteverde
2 nights
Coach to San Jose for departure
1 night

Founded by American Quakers in 1951, Monteverde is nestled high along on the Continental Divide. Travel the Pan-American Highway and study the ecology of the Cloud Forest during on-site discussions. Discover the history of this Quaker settlement, which once served as both religious outpost and artisanal cheese producer. Continue to learn about the intersection of "Ecology and Economy in Costa Rica” during a lecture and in visits to a local handicraft market where local craftsmen create ox carts, furniture and other artifacts.




Costa Rica

Hugged by two bodies of water and sandwiched between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica’s topography, climate and geographical position are more than mere facts: they define this tiny country. Cloud rainforests, valleys of coffee and volcanic mountain peaks fill the land between Caribbean and Pacific beaches. This ecological Eden protects its natural treasures in acres of preserved land, and is the only country in the world without a standing army.
Accommodations
San Jose: City center hotel. Sarapiqui: Rainforest eco-lodge. Arenal Volcano: Comfortable hotel with volcano views. Monteverde: Quiet, family-run hotel.
Meals and Lodgings
   Hotel Balmoral
  San José, Costa Rica 1 night
   Selva Verde Lodge
  Sarapiqui, Costa Rica 2 nights
   Arenal Springs Resort
  Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica 2 nights
   Hotel Montaña Monteverde
  Monteverde, Costa Rica 2 nights
   Ramada Plaza Herradura
  San José, Costa Rica 1 night
 Hotel Balmoral
Type: Hotel
  Description: Comfortable hotel located on the main walking boulevard in downtown San Jose. Within walking distance of the National Theater and Gold Museum.
  Contact info: Avenida Central, between 7th & 9th street
San Jose,  3344-1000 Costa Rica
phone: +506-2222-5022
web: www.balmoral.co.cr
  Room amenities: Cable TV, air conditioning, mini bar, coffee maker, hair dryer, WiFi, safety deposit box, and telephone.
  Facility amenities: Conference rooms, restaurant, business center, gym, bar, tour desk, WiFi, souvenir shop, money exchange, safety deposit boxes, and casino. Airport transportation can be reserved at an additional cost.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: subject to availability Additional nights are subject to hotel availability.
  Check in time: 2:00 PM

 Selva Verde Lodge
Type: Lodge
  Description: Rainforest lodge built along the banks of the Sarapiqui River. Room modules are built on elevated platforms, surrounded by tropical vegetation. A large tract of private primary and secondary rainforest is accessible via a hanging bridge.
  Contact info: Chilamate
Sarapiqui,  00000 Costa Rica
phone: +5062-766-6800
web: www.selvaverde.com
  Room amenities: Safety boxes, ceiling fans, phones, screened windows, and hair dryers.
  Facility amenities: Meeting rooms, restaurant, and bar.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Arenal Springs Resort
Type: Resort
  Description: The newest Resort facing the Arenal Volcano is located 1 km (0.6 miles) inland away from the road circling the volcano making it one of the safest and quietest hotels in the area while offering spectacular views.
  Contact info: 5 km past La Fortuna
Arenal,  00000 Costa Rica
phone: +506-2290-0798
web: arenalspringshotel.com/
  Room amenities: Vaulted ceilings, large sliding bay windows, air-conditioning and a ceiling fan, TV, telephone, safety box, mini-fridge, night tables with reading lamps, wardrobe, garden shower, hairdryer, covered porch with rocking chairs and coffee table.
  Facility amenities: Pool with great views, swim bar, Jacuzzi, kids pool, access ramp for the handicapped and changing rooms.
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 Hotel Montaña Monteverde
Type: Hotel
  Description: The hotel is located in the Pacific highlands of Costa Rica (approx. 4,500 ft above sea level), just a few minutes from the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
  Contact info: P.O. Box 07-5655
Monteverde,   Costa Rica
phone: +506-2645-5046
web: www.monteverdemountainhotel.com
  Room amenities: Each room has a private bath, telephone, and safety deposit box.
  Facility amenities: Private forest reserve with trails, conference room, bar and restaurant, jacuzzi, and sauna.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Ramada Plaza Herradura
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Ramada Plaza Herradura is nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's Central Valley. The beautiful views of the surrounding mountains are framed by the hotel's attractive tropical gardens. Four-star services and a quiet and relaxing environment are sure to please both vacationing families and the business traveler alike. San Jose's Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is located 5 miles away and the downtown area is a short 15 minutes drive.
  Contact info: General Cañas Highway
5 km. South from International Airport
San José,   Costa Rica
phone: +506-2209-9800
web: www.ramadaherradura.com/
  Room amenities: Private bath, air conditioning, satellite TV, direct-dial telephone, room service- 24 hrs, and Internet access.
  Facility amenities: 3 outdoor pools. 5 Jacuzzis, 2 restaurants, bar and lounge, Fiesta Casino, fitness center, business center, full service spa, and beauty salon.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: Prices subject to availability Additional nights are subject to hotel availability.


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
All-day arrivals at the Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José, Costa Rica. Hotel check-in begins at 3 p.m. You will be staying at Hotel Balmoral that night.
  End of Program:
Departures from the Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José, Costa Rica. Hotel check-out by 11 a.m. You will be staying at Ramada Plaza Herradura the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. Proof of vaccination is required from travelers arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic. It is always best to renew your passport before it reaches the six month validity date—especially if you plan on doing future travel. For more information about entry requirements please contact the Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington, DC at tel: (202) 234-2945/46 or visit www.costarica-embassy.org.
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  San José
  Nearest city or town:  San Jose
  Nearest airport:  Juan Santa Maria International Airport
  Transportation to site: Taxi services are available at the Juan Santamaria International Airport. The Taxis Unidos Aeropuerto is the official airport taxi company and their booth can be found outside of the Baggage Claim area. They provide safe and reliable service and their fares can be prepaid in dollars. The Taxis Unidos Aeropuerto vehicles are orange in color and have their logo emblazoned on the side. Tel: (506) 2222-6865/www.taxisunidosaeropuerto.com.
  From End of Program
  Location: San José
  Transportation from site: Taxi services are available at the hotel. If you wish to hire a taxi, please ask for assistance at the hotel's front desk.
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Elevation Note: Elevations of up to 6,000 feet.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Arrive to San José
(Saturday, December 1)
   
 Arrive To: Arrive in San José's Juan Santamaria International Airport.

Proceed through Immigrations, Baggage Claim and Customs before exiting the secured area of the airport. Please use the exit door on the right. The Road Scholar representative will be waiting outside the exit door with a Road Scholar sign (only applies to Road Scholar group flights).

Transfer to the hotel and check-in, followed by time at leisure.

Please note that this is an international travel day; no meals or program activities are scheduled on this day. Hotel check-in usually begins at 3PM.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Balmoral

Day 2: Sarapiqui -
Gold Museum/Introduction to the Rainforest
(Sunday, December 2)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Orientation to the program.
Lecture: An Overview of Costa Rica
Excursion to the Gold Museum with a site lecture.

This unique underground museum showcases an impressive collection of Pre-Colombian gold. The 2,000-piece collection weighs over 20,000 troy ounces making it one of the wealthiest spots in the nation. Visitors with an interest in stamp and coin collections might consider visiting the adjoining philatelic museum and numismatic museum.

Transfer to Sarapiqui in Costa Rica's Caribbean lowlands.
 Lunch: Lunch en route.
 Afternoon: Continue with transfer to Sarapiqui.

Sarapiquí is one of the richest sites for birds in Middle America with well over recorded 400 species. Nearby, the La Selva Protection Zone and the Braulio Carrillo National Park form the only significant corridor of forest on the Caribbean slope linking the highlands with the lowlands - a corridor crucial to birds and animals that undertake seasonal altitudinal migrations.

Arrive in Sarapiqui.
Orientation to the lodge.
Welcome to Sarapiqui – Snacks and local music on the patio.
Lecture: Introduction to the Rainforest.
 Dinner: Dinner at the lodge.
   
Accommodations: Selva Verde Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Sarapiqui –
River Boat Excursion/Cultural Interaction/Pineapple Plantation/Latin Dance
(Monday, December 3)
   
 Breakfast: Early morning bird walk.
Breakfast at lodge.
 Morning: Boat ride excursion on the Sarapiqui River to look for wildlife.
Field trip to a local pineapple plantation. Examine the environmental and economic impact of growing pineapples in Costa Rica -- one of the top ten producers in the world.
 Lunch: Lunch at lodge.
 Afternoon: Visit to Sarapiqui Conservation Learning Center (SCLC) to meet with locals for a "charla."

In Spanish “charla” means “chat”. During this informative session, led by a local community member, you will learn about life in Sarapiqui. Topics include local ecosystems, immigration, domestic life, and local artisan work. A question and answer session concludes the activity, fostering international communication and understanding.
The Sarapiqui Learning Center (SCLC). Founded by Giovanna Holbrook in the mid-1990s, the SCLC is a registered non-profit organization whose mission is to link communities and conservation through education and ecotourism in the Sarapiqui region. Programs include environmental education, ecotourism activities, English classes, an ecology club, community outreach, a women’s group and many others.

Return to the lodge.

Time at leisure to enjoy the lodge grounds. Settle into one of the lodge's comfy hammocks, cool off in the pool, practice your photography skills, or use the opportunity to do some bird watching.
 Dinner: Dinner at lodge.
 Evening: Latin dance lessons with locals.

Participants learn three styles of Latin dance: Meringue, Salsa, and Cumbia. After local dancers demonstrate the style of dancing and lead the group through the dance steps, participants will have the chance to practice with a partner.
   
Accommodations: Selva Verde Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Arenal -
Bird Walk/River Rafting/Introduction to Arenal Volcano
(Tuesday, December 4)
   
 Breakfast: Early morning bird walk.
Breakfast at the lodge.
 Morning: Embark on an exhilarating river rafting excursion on the Sarapiqui River.
 Lunch: Lunch at the lodge.
 Afternoon: Transfer to Arenal.

Arenal was once Costa Rica's most active volcano and a main draw to the town of La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano National Park. The volcano lords over the countryside with its perfectly conical shape and occasional smoke and gas emissions. While minor activity excites visitors, they are rarely acknowledged by the locals who have learnt to accept the antics of the volcano as part of their daily lives. The thermal waters emanating from the volcano, the clean air and the energy associated with Arenal, makes this a favorite destination for health spa enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Arrive at the hotel and check-in.
Time at leisure.
Lecture: The Arenal Volcano.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Arenal Springs Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Arenal -
Arenal Volcano National Park/Hot Springs/La Fortuna Town
(Wednesday, December 5)
   
 Breakfast: Early morning bird walk.
Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Field trip to Arenal Volcano National Park with site lecture.

The National Park is situated right in the vicinity of Arenal Volcano. Although clouds often obscure the peak of the volcano, during clear days it is possible to see gases and steam rising from the cone. It is interesting to see how the periodic lava flows have contributed to the erratic growth of vegetation in the areas around the volcano.
 Lunch: Lunch at the hotel.
 Afternoon: Time at leisure to enjoy the hotel's hot springs.
Excursion to the town of La Fortuna.

The small and picturesque town of Fortuna has changed quite a bit from the village that witnessed the eruptions of Arenal Volcano in 1968. Once a small agricultural community, Fortuna has grown as a result of tourism. Although now on a second level of economic importance, many plantations in the surrounding areas still produce important amounts of papaya, sugar cane, tapioca and ornamental plants.
 Dinner: Dinner at local restaurant.
   
Accommodations: Arenal Springs Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Monteverde -
Arenal Hanging Bridges/Coffee Farm.
(Thursday, December 6)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Excursion to Arenal Hanging Bridges.

Arenal Hanging Bridges is a private nature reserve in La Fortuna de San Carlos. The site features a network of standing bridges, hanging bridges, and trails that crisscross 250 hectares of tropical rainforest. The park’s mission is to provide natural history education in a responsible and sustainable way. Visitors are able to view the rainforest from different angles and heights, from ground level to canopy level, learning firsthand about this fascinating and biologically diverse environment.
 Lunch: Lunch at Arenal Hanging Bridges.
 Afternoon: Transfer to Monteverde via lake and land.
Field trip to coffee farm with site lecture.

Learn the about harvesting and processing of coffee as well as the history of this crop from its beginning in the Arabic countries and Ethiopia. Discover the importance of the golden bean ¨grano de oro¨ and its impact on the social, cultural, and economic development of Costa Rica. Time at leisure.
Lecture: Conservation and Development of the Monteverde Area.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Montaña Monteverde
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Monteverde -
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve/Sky Walk/The Quaker Story
(Friday, December 7)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Field trip to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve with site lecture.

The edges of this rich forest, often cloaked in clouds and blowing mist, are home to more than 350 avian species and a myriad of other creatures and critters. Monteverde is perhaps most famous for its breeding Resplendent Quetzals, Three-wattled Bellbird, and Bare-necked Umbrellabird. While these charismatic species can be elusive, a host of other cloud forest birds and amphibians are found in the area.
 Lunch: Lunch at the hotel.
 Afternoon: Excursion to the Monteverde Sky Walk.

A combination of natural trails and hanging bridges (suspension bridges) throughout the cloud forest and forest canopy. The Skywalk was built to protect the environment while allowing visitors to enjoy the forest from a different viewpoint. Enjoy the magnificent surroundings while listening to a site lecture.
This walk includes about 1 ½ miles of trails and 5 suspended bridges across deep canyons at the level of the treetops. The longest bridge is about 800 feet in length.

Lecture: The Quaker Story.

In 1951 a group of American Quakers, fearful of their nation’s growing militarism, fled the United States. The Quakers found Costa Rica, a nation without a military, to be the most inviting nation for their pacifist beliefs. This group settled Monteverde and intended to transform the area into profitable farmland. The Quakers developed a fairly successful cheese industry but they also recognized the delicate nature of the land and helped establish the area’s first wildlife sanctuary.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Montaña Monteverde
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Return to San José - Excursion to Sarchi/Butterfly Garden/Farewell to Costa Rica.
(Saturday, December 8)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Morning visit to the Monteverde Butterfly Garden.
Jim Wolfe and his wife Marta Iris opened the Monteverde Butterfly Garden in 1989. The couple has been hand raising butterflies for more than fifteen years and know their preferences and habits. These fragile creatures require extreme care as they develop and grow. Every species feeds on a different variety of plants Unlike most butterfly gardens, which buy their butterflies as chrysalides, all the butterflies you will see here were bred and raised on the premises.

Begin transfer to San José.
 Lunch: Lunch en route to San José.
 Afternoon: Excursion to the crafts town of Sarchi.

The town of Sarchi, just a few miles from Grecia, is well known for its centuries-old tradition of making oxcarts. The brightly colored and intricately decorated carts are a national symbol and can still be seen in use in rural communities. Sarchi is also known for its handcrafted furniture and wood housewares.

Arrive in San José and check-in at the hotel.
Time at leisure.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Ramada Plaza Herradura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Depart to U.S .
(Sunday, December 9)
   
 Depart From: Transfer to the Juan Santamaria International Airport for flight to U.S.

Note: Participants with independent travel arrangements and/or scheduled on later flights can keep their hotel rooms until check-out time on this day. Except for breakfast, all other meals are on your own on this day.
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel (depending on flight schedule).
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica


Author: Gary Stiles and Alexander Skutch


Description: Illustrated descriptions of the major habitats, color plates and maps, help to identify more than 850 species of birds in Costa Rica.



Costa Rica's National Parks and Preserves: A Visitor's Guide


Author: Joseph Franke and Joseph Dimijian


Description: A first-rate source for the Costa Rican park system. Profiles 40 parks and preserves and their distinct tropical habitats. Franke provides regional history as well as tips on what to pack.



Lonely Planet Costa Rica Country Guide


Author: Lonely Planet


Description: Regional maps, detailed site information and general tips will be useful to travelers of all budgets and interests.



Lonely Planet Phrasebooks: Latin American Spanish


Author: Roberto Esposto


Description: This portable phrasebook provides a useful mix of everyday phrases, words and expressions used in different Spanish speaking countries in Latin America. Learn the nuances of the Spanish language as it is spoken in Puerto Rico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.



Mammals of Costa Rica


Author: Fiona Reid


Description: A palm-sized guide to 65 native mammals with handsome full-color illustrations and helpful descriptions. Includes a map, viewing tips and a checklist.



Neotropical Rainforest Mammals: A Field Guide


Author: Louise H. Emmons & François Feer


Description: This beautifully illustrated field guide contains all you need to know about rainforest mammals in Central and South America. It has color plates, range maps and detailed descriptions of each animal, including information about their biology, behavior and natural habitats.



The Penguin History of Latin America


Author: Edwin Williamson


Description: Williamson traces 500 years of history from the time of Columbus and the Spanish Conquest to the present day. An excellent and very readable history in a compact size.



The Ticos


Author: Richard Biesanz


Description: This insightful, fact-filled portrait of the Costa Rican people accessibly explores their culture, history and society.



Tropical Plants of Costa Rica


Author: Willow Zuchowski


Description: Organized by habitat, this photo guide to 400 species has chapters on popular destinations, including Monteverde and Tortuguero.





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