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Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Program Number: 20774RJ
Start and End Dates:
4/3/2013 - 4/11/2013; 10/19/2013 - 10/27/2013; 11/3/2013 - 11/11/2013; 12/7/2013 - 12/15/2013; 1/18/2014 - 1/26/2014; 2/8/2014 - 2/16/2014; 2/22/2014 - 3/2/2014; 3/13/2014 - 3/21/2014; 4/19/2014 - 4/27/2014; 5/10/2014 - 5/18/2014; 10/18/2014 - 10/26/2014; 11/1/2014 - 11/9/2014; 12/6/2014 - 12/14/2014;
Duration: 8 nights
Location: Costa Rica
Price starting at: $1,695.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type:
Meals: 19; 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 5 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian; Low Fat    

Absorb the brilliant natural beauty of Costa Rica on this journey that combines special access with plenty of time for independent exploration. Discover Manuel Antonio National Park, the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s renowned environmental protection efforts. Then experience two lesser-known jewels: a private cloud forest reserve protected by a Costa Rican family for decades and a lush rainforest where a South African family welcomes you to their safari lodge.




Highlights

• Experience Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity at Manuel Antonio National Park, in a private cloud forest reserve and in the Pacific rainforest.
• Learn about gourmet coffee production in the Valley of the Saints, one of the world’s best places to grow coffee beans.
• Raft down the lower reaches of the Savegre River and boat and snorkel on the spectacular Pacific coast.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles per day on city streets and forest paths. River rafting, swimming and snorkeling. Elevations of 7,200 feet.




Date Specific Information

10-19-2013

This departure can be taken in conjunction with the Costa Rica program #11586-10/08/13.



1-18-2014, 2-22-2014, 3-13-2014, 4-19-2014, 5-10-2014, 10-18-2014, 11-1-2014, 12-6-2014

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



2-8-2014

Unfortunately due to limited space we are unable to provide roommate matching on this program date.
Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival San Jose, 1 night; coach to Savegre Nature Reserve, 2 nights; coach to Rafiki Safari Lodge, 2 nights; coach to Manuel Antonio National Park, 2 nights; coach to San Jose, 1 night; departure.



Arrival San Jose
1 night
Coach to San Gerardo de Dota
2 nights

Journey out of San José to the Valley of the Saints, Costa Rica’s most famous coffee producing region, to learn about coffee farming and sample some world-class brews. The pioneering Chacón family welcomes you to their private cloud forest reserve in the beautiful Talamanca Mountains. Look for the Resplendent Quetzal during an expert-led forest walk and enjoy time to explore on your own.



Coach to Lower Savegre Valley
2 nights

Journey toward Costa Rica’s Pacific coast for your stay at Rafiki, a safari-style rainforest camp. Discover the lush surroundings on foot and by 4x4 vehicle. Dine with the lodge’s owners, the Boshoff family, and hear about their mission to reintroduce the endangered Baird’s Tapir to this area. Led by experts, embark on an invigorating rafting adventure on the rushing Savegre River.



Coach to Manuel Antonio National Park
2 nights
Coach to San Jose
1 night
Departure

Board a small boat for an excursion along the coast and don a snorkel, mask and fins to take a peek under the surface. An expert-led walk in the park introduces you to wildlife including sloths and three monkey species. Enjoy an additional day to experience this stunning park independently. Return to San José for a celebratory farewell dinner.




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: Centrally located hotel (first night) and comfortable hotel close to airport (final night). San Gerardo de Dota: Historic hotel in a private reserve. Lower Savegre Valley: Tented safari camp. Manuel Antonio National Park: Resort hotel near park entrance.
Meals and Lodgings
   Hotel Balmoral
  San Jose, Costa Rica 1 night
   Savegre Hotel Nature Reserve & Spa (formerly Savegre Mountain Hotel)
  Savegre, Costa Rica 2 nights
   Rafiki Safari Lodge
  Lower Savegre Valley, Costa Rica 2 nights
   Hotel San Bada
  Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica 2 nights
   Ramada Plaza Herradura
  San Jose, Costa Rica 1 night
 Hotel Balmoral
Type: Hotel
  Description: Comfortable hotel located on the main pedestrian boulevard in downtown San Jose. Within walking distance of the National Theater and Gold Museum.
  Contact info: Avenida Central (between 7th & 9th Streets)
San Jose,  3344-1000 Costa Rica
phone: +506-22225022
web: www.balmoral.co.cr
  Room amenities: Cable TV, air conditioning, private bath, hair dryer, minibar, safety deposit box, and telephone.
  Facility amenities: Conference rooms, restaurant, business center, gym, bar, and casino.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Subject to availability. Additional nights are subject to hotel availability.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Savegre Hotel Nature Reserve & Spa (formerly Savegre Mountain Hotel)
Type: Lodge
  Description: The Savegre Mountain Hotel is located in the Talamanca Mountains of Costa Rica. The hotel is at an elevation of approximately 7,220 ft and is situated in a private cloud forest reserve that borders the Los Quetzales National Park. Its private reserve has earned a reputation for being one of the best places to spot the elusive Resplendent Quetzal--one of the country's most colorful birds.
  Contact info: San Gerardo de Dota.
San Gerardo de Dota,  00000 Costa Rica
phone: +506-27401028
web: www.savegre.com
  Room amenities: Rooms have private baths and heating system or fireplace. No air conditioning is necessary since the hotel is located in a mountainous region (approximately 7,220 ft above sea level), known for its clean and crisp air.
  Facility amenities: Restaurant, bar, meeting rooms, gardens, nature reserve, and laundry service.
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 Rafiki Safari Lodge
Type: Lodge
  Description: Luxury tented camp built on 750 acres of rainforest along the Savegre River. The safari tents, imported from South Africa, have their own bathrooms with running water and a porch overlooking the rainforest and mountains. Lit paths lead from the tents to the main building that serves as a restaurant, bar and lounge area.
  Contact info: Savegre,   Costa Rica
phone: +506 2777-2250
web: www.rafikisafari.com
  Facility amenities: Pool and waterslide, restaurant, bar and forest trails. No laundry services are available at this lodge.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Hotel San Bada
Type: Resort
  Description: Attractive resort-style hotel located near the entrance to the Manuel Antonio National Park, within walking distance to Manuel Antonio Beach.
  Contact info: Next to Manuel Antonio National Park entrance
Manuel Antonio,   Costa Rica
phone: +506-27775333
web: www.hotelsanbada.com
  Room amenities: All rooms have a private balcony with garden or ocean views, private bathroom, air conditioning, cable TV. WiFi, minibar, safety deposit box, and phone.
  Facility amenities: Restaurants, 3 pools, snack bars, bar, laundry service, tour desk, and concierge services.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Ramada Plaza Herradura
Type: Resort
  Description: The Ramada Plaza Herradura is 4-star resort nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's Central Valley, only 5 miles from the Juan Santamaria International Airport and a short drive from downtown San José. Beautiful mountain views, lush tropical gardens, and modern amenities provide an atmosphere of tranquility and comfort.
  Contact info: General Cañas Highway
5 km. south from International Airport
San José,   Costa Rica
phone: +506-22099800
web: www.ramadaherradura.com/
  Room amenities: Private bath, air conditioning, satellite TV, direct-dial telephone, room service, and high speed Internet access.
  Facility amenities: Outdoor pools, jacuzzis, restaurants, bar & lounge, casino, fitness center, gift shop, convention center, business center, meeting rooms, spa services, laundry services, money exchange, and beauty salon.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: Prices subject to availability Additional nights are subject to hotel availability. Please contact the program coordinator, Holbrook Travel, at 1-800-866-7111 or roadscholarprograms@holbrooktravel.com for information on availability and prices.
  Check out time: 11:00 AM


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.
  Parking availability:
Not applicable.
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  San Jose
  Nearest airport:  Jose 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 Jose
  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: 7,000 ft Savegre/Cerro de la Muerte
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: Flights from the U.S./Arrivals in San Jose, Costa Rica.
(Wednesday, April 3)
   
 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.

Note: This is an international travel day; no meals or program activities are scheduled on this day. Hotel check-in usually begins at 3 p.m.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Balmoral

Day 2: Gourmet Coffee in the Valley of the Saints/Sundowner with Chacon Family Member.
(Thursday, April 4)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Program orientation at the hotel.
Exit San José and the Central Valley and head south to the Valley of the Saints. Enjoy a field trip to a local gourmet coffee plantation to learn about coffee farming and processing and also sample some world-class brews.

The Valley of the Saints, located in the Tarrazu region of Costa rica, is well known among the local population for its production of superior coffees. Similar to wine, the quality and flavor of coffee is affected by the climate and soil in which its fruit is grown. The Valley of the Saints’ landscape, acidic soil composition, and well defined dry and rainy seasons all lend themselves to raising coffee. Harvesting is done during the region’s dry season (November – March). The limited rainfall during those five months gives the fruit an opportunity to ripen evenly and also facilitates the sun drying process.

While driving near the farm owned by President Pepe Figueres' family, we'll take the opportunity to enjoy a casual chat about his political legacy in Costa Rica.

Don José “Pepe” Figueres Ferrer holds hero status in Costa Rican history; a position earned through a lifetime of political activism. Don Pepe, as he was known locally, was a key figure in the 1948 revolutionary movement that led to the ousting of President Teodoro Picado and the creation of a new constitution. During a brief period, Don Pepe served as Costa Rica’s provisional president before handing over the reigns to the popularly elected Don Otilio Ulate in November of 1949. In later years, Don Pepe had the opportunity to once again serve as head of state after winning the 1953 and 1970 presidential elections. Among other things, President Figueres is credited with abolishing the national army, building highways and schools, including the National University and the Technological Institute of Costa Rica, guaranteeing public education. promoting tourism, and strengthening the country’s middle class.

 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Arrive at the lodge and check-in. Time at leisure to get settled in your accommodations, relax and explore the lodge's grounds.

Before dinner, enjoy sundowners with a member of the Chacon family for rare insights into this pioneering family's long relationship with the Savegre Valley.
 Dinner: At the lodge.
   
Accommodations: Savegre Hotel Nature Reserve & Spa (formerly Savegre Mountain Hotel)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: In Search of the Quetzal/Optional Activities.
(Friday, April 5)
   
 Breakfast: At the lodge.
 Morning: This morning we will search for the bird of ancient royalty, the colorful and elusive Resplendent Quetzal. Embark on a guided nature walk on forest trails leading to the 400 year-old oak forest situated on the upper slopes of the valley.
 Lunch: At the lodge.
 Afternoon: Free time to enjoy many optional activities (additional cost) in and around your lodge such as fishing, horseback riding, spa treatments, bird watching, walking/hiking, and more.
 Dinner: At the lodge.
   
Accommodations: Savegre Hotel Nature Reserve & Spa (formerly Savegre Mountain Hotel)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Nature Walk on Forest Trails/Jungle Safari/Sundowner.
(Saturday, April 6)
   
 Breakfast: At the lodge.
 Morning: Depart for the Pacific coast and the transitional Pacific jungle.

Arrive at the tented camp in time for lunch.
 Lunch: At the tented camp.
 Afternoon: After lunch, learn about the resident plants and wildlife during a guided nature walk along the lodge's forest trails. Site lecture: Reintroduction of the Tapir- A Dream or Reality?

Embark in a jungle safari with site lecture in four-wheel drive vehicles. Explore the region, observing the transitions from pasture land to secondary and primary forests.

Sit back, relax, and experience one of the Pacific region's beautiful sunsets during a jungle sundowner.
 Dinner: Enjoy dinner with the owner of the camp and learn the fascinating story behind Rafiki.
   
Accommodations: Rafiki Safari Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Rafting on the Savegre River/Cultural Interaction/Optional Activities.
(Sunday, April 7)
   
 Breakfast: At the camp.
 Morning: After a preparatory session with local experts, embark on an envigorating rafting adventure on the Savegre River. Delight in the swells and dips of the rushing river; a natural roller coaster ride that will make your inner child cheer and laugh out loud (even as you get a good upper-body workout!).

Return to the camp.
 Lunch: Sample some Costa Rican cuisine during a traditional meal at the home of a local resident of the small town of Santo Domingo.
 Afternoon: Return to the camp.

Afternoon at leisure to enjoy optional activities at the camp such as: hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, bird watching and walking on local trails.
 Dinner: At the camp.
   
Accommodations: Rafiki Safari Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Boat Safari/Swimming and Snorkeling.
(Monday, April 8)
   
 Breakfast: At the camp.
 Morning: Transfer from the lower Savegre Valley to Manuel Antonio. Stop at El Avion ("The Airplane") restaurant for refreshments and learn about the aircraft's interesting connection to the United States' Iran-Contra Affair.

El Avion restaurant is as famous for its unique decor as it is for its food and drinks. First-time visitors will most likely do a double take at the sight of the large aircraft parked within the open sided building. No--your eyes are not playing tricks on you, this is the real thing. The airplane (a Fairchild C-123) was one of a handful of aircrafts purchased by the U.S. to secretly aid the counter-revolutionary movement in Nicaragua in the 1980's. If having drinks in the refurbished cabin of this historic cargo plane is not entertaining enough, take a moment to check out the scenic views of the Pacific coastline from the restaurant's porch.

Arrive at the hotel.
 Lunch: At the hotel.
 Afternoon: Afternoon boat safari, cruising along the Pacific coastline. Introductory site lecture on Manuel Antonio National Park.

Enjoy swimming and snorkeling activities (equipment will be provided), culminating in a Pacific sunset.
 Dinner: On your own to explore local fare.
   
Accommodations: Hotel San Bada
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Independent Exploration of Manuel Antonio.
(Tuesday, April 9)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: On this free day, explore Manuel Antonio and its full range of dining and entertainment opportunities.
 Lunch: On your own to explore local fare.
 Afternoon: Continuation of your free day.
 Dinner: On your own to explore local fare.
   
Accommodations: Hotel San Bada
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8: Manuel Antonio National Park/Transfer to San Jose
(Wednesday, April 10)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: After breakfast, participate in a guided walk in Manuel Antonio National Park with a site lecture. This is one of the best areas in the country in which to view monkeys. In fact, three of the country's four species of monkey can be found here, including the highly endangered Titi Monkey (Grey Crowned Red-backed Central American Squirrel Monkey) which can only be seen here and in the Corcovado region.

Manuel Antonio National Park is probably the most popular destination for travelers to Costa Rica and is a “must” on anyone’s itinerary. From sloths to monkeys, the park encompasses an amazing range of biodiversity. Despite the park’s fairly small size (about 1,700 acres) visitors can enter in a rainforest and walk straight to the beach. Unfortunately, the park’s beauty has also exacerbated its problems. As more people make their way to Manuel Antonio National Park, the potential for its degradation increases and because of this, park officials have begun limiting the number of daily visitors. The natural beauty of this park will surely bring out the photographer in you, so pack plenty of memory sticks for your camera!

Depart for San Jose.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant en route.
 Afternoon: Arrive in San Jose.

Arrive at the hotel and check-in. Free time to work on your packing, enjoy hotel amenities or get some rest before dinner.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Ramada Plaza Herradura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Departures/Flights to the U.S.
(Thursday, April 11)
   
 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: At the hotel (dependent on flight times).
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Manuel Antonio National Park Dining and Dancing
For additional information, visit www.costaricauncovered.com
  Hiking, rafting, Catamaran tours, kayaking, horseback riding, canopy tours, boat tours, & fishing.
Take advantage of Manuel Antonio's many attractions during your free time. Admire the flora and fauna of Carara National Park and Manuel Antonio during nature walks, paddle kayaks along the Pacific coastline, try your hand at fishing, or enjoy horseback riding on forest trails. For additional information, visit www.iguanatours.com
  Savegre Bird watching, horseback riding, spa services, and nature hikes.
The Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa offers its guests a variety of services (at an additional cost) that include horseback riding on lodge trails, guided bird watching excursions, and hikes to local attractions. The on-site Del Rio Spa offers a large menu of services including hot stone massage, Swedish massage, body wraps, reflexology, exfoliation, facial treatments, and use of their sauna, steam bath, and Jacuzzi. For additional information, visit www.savegre.com/
  Lower Savegre Valley River rafting, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, hiking, swimming and birding.
The following activities are available at the Rafiki Safari Lodge: river rafting and kayaking on the Savegre River, horseback riding through the mountain terrain, and river fishing on the Savegre River. Hike on your own or with a guide through more than 700 acres of rainforest. Swim in the natural spring pools or slide down the waterfall. For additional information, visit www.rafikisafari.com
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 Brief History of Central America


Author: Hector Perez-Brignoll


Description: A good overview of the region’s economic, political and social history through the 1980s by a professor at the University of Costa Rica. Well-written, informative and concise.



A Neotropical Companion


Author: J.C. Kricher, Mark Plotkin


Description: From plants and animals to birds and bugs, it's all here in this wonderfully written overview of the ecology, habitats, plants and animals of Central and South America.



Costa Rica Adventure Map


Author: National Geographic


Description: A double-sided map at a scale of 1:500,000.



Costa Rican Wildlife


Author: Pocket Naturalist


Description: Put it in your pocket! This handy, fold-up card includes color illustrations of dozens of typical birds, mammals and reptiles.



Culture Smart! Costa Rica


Author: Jane Koutnik


Description: A guide to local customs, etiquette and culture.



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 Costa Rican Spanish


Author: Lonely Planet


Description: A pocket guide to understanding idioms, slang and Spanish as it is spoken by the Ticos.



National Geographic Costa Rica


Author: Christopher P. Baker


Description: This stylish, informative and up-to-date travel resource features 200 photographs, many maps and good information on the country's history, nature and culture.



The Birds of Costa Rica


Author: Richard Garrigues, Robert Dean (Illustrator)


Description: Built for the field, this great guide includes multiple illustrations for 820 species of birds.



The Monkey's Bridge, Mysteries of Evolution in Central America


Author: David Rains Wallace


Description: Opening this absorbing account of the history and biogeography of the Central American isthmus with the tale of Columbus, Wallace weaves his own travels in the region with a crisp overview of exploration, nature and evolution. Natural history buffs and ecologically minded travelers will appreciate this valuable resource.



The New Key to Costa Rica


Author: Beatrice Blake


Description: The original guide to Costa Rica, featuring up-to-date suggestions of hotels and lodges, outdoor adventures and excursions – and with a serious focus on sustainable travel.



The Wildlife of Costa Rica, A Field Guide


Author: Fiona Reid, Twan Leenders, Jim Zook, Robert Dean


Description: Designed to take along on a walk in the forest, this latest compact Zona Tropical guide includes 450 of the most common, interesting and charismatic mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and arthropods that you are likely to encounter in the field. Each gets an exquisite full color illustration.



Tropical Nature


Author: Adrian Forsyth, Ken Miyata


Description: A lively, lucid portrait of the tropics as seen by two uncommonly observant and thoughtful field biologists. Its 17 marvelous essays introduce the habitats, ecology, plants and animals of the Central and South American rainforest



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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