Overview

 Highlights


  • Raft the Pacuare River, in a superb natural rainforest region
  • Encounter exotic wildlife
  • Discover the Arenal Volcano area and incredible hanging bridges
  • Rejuvenate by soaking in natural hot springs
  • Enjoy a choice of days in Monteverde Cloud Forest or Manuel Antonio National Park

This flexible itinerary is ideal for travellers looking for a bit of an adventure, mixed with time to take in the sights and relax on the palm fringed beaches. We start our journey in San Jose before heading to the Pacuare River for two days of gentle whitewater rafting through this superb natural rainforest region. We then continue to Arenal Volcano where we enjoy a hike exploring the rich flora and fauna of this tropical rainforest. We will also incorporate some time to rejuvenate in the many natural hot springs. Finally you can choose between the Monteverde Cloud Forest or exploring the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park and it’s excellent Pacific Coast Beaches. Both areas offer a selection of optional activities which allow you to do as much or as little as you like.

Countries:

Starting Point:

San Jose

Activities:

Grading:Introductory   


Expand all | Collapse all

You will be met on arrival at San Jose's international airport and taken to your hotel.

Meals:  Nil

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS…with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the “put in” on the Pacuare River for our two-day whitewater rafting adventure. We will run a total of 10 kilometers of Class II-III rapids today exploring the magnificent river valley. By afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, El Nido de Tigre (or similar) which nestles between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river. This area of rainforest is maintained as much as possible in its natural state. From the center of the camp, trails radiate out to secreted areas of rainforest, take time to explore the lush environment first hand looking out for toucans overhead or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the river.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We will run a total of 25 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids. We maneuver through the exhilarating rapids and point out the intricacies of the rainforest at the river’s edge. Along the way we take time out to do some hiking to spectacular waterfalls and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” near the town of Siquirres we drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to the Arenal Volcano. There is a wide choice of restaurants to choose from in La Fortuna for dinner.

Meals:  B,L

In the morning we enjoy a picturesque walk through the tropical rainforest. We will be around 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges, one of the highlights in this area. Here we'll have wonderful panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall which falls 120ft to a large natural swimming pool. The descent is steep and we take the stair set down to the waterfall as we become immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. The falls spill over into smaller gentler pour overs and swim areas which are our natural playground before we begin our ascent. The afternoon may be spent exploring the town of La Fortuna or relaxing in your hotel. Thanks to the Arenal Volcano’s geothermal activity, there is a number of natural hot springs throughout the area. They are designed to be very much in tune with their natural environment and offer a fantastic way to relax in the warm and soothing mineral waters while enjoying spectacular scenery in close proximity, that’s why you will be transfer tonight at one of these amazing thermal waters where the entrance and a delicious dinner will be also included.

Meals:  B,D

Free time to explore Manuel Antonio and the National Park. It takes about five hours to get to the National Park. The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is a treasure chest of natural beauty. In Manuel Antonio the rainforest dramatically meets the Pacific Ocean as it bows down to greet the white sandy beaches. It is a great place to relax or to explore the National Park. You will often be awakened by the local monkeys – howler, white-faced and squirrel are the most common in the area, as well as iguanas and land crabs. To make the most of your time at the beach, you can book the following optional activities (additional cost): Canopy Tour, Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling, Islas Damas Mangrove Kayak Trip or Boat Trip, Catamaran & Snorkeling Adventure, Surfing lessons. Speak with our Reservations staff for details and pricing.

Meals:  B

The morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the beach. In the afternoon, you will be transferred by road back to San Jose. The evening may be spent taking in the sights and sounds of San Jose.

Meals:  B

This morning you will be transferred to San Jose airport after breakfast where the trip concludes.

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

You will be met on arrival at San Jose’s international airport and taken to your hotel.

Meals:  Nil

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS…with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the “put in” on the Pacuare River for our two-day whitewater rafting adventure. We will run a total of 10 kilometers of Class II-III rapids today exploring the magnificent river valley. By afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, El Nido de Tigre (or similar) which nestles between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river. This area of rainforest is maintained as much as possible in its natural state. From the center of the camp, trails radiate out to secreted areas of rainforest, take time to explore the lush environment first hand looking out for toucans overhead or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the river.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today the Pacuare takes us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We will run a total of 25 kilometers of Class III-IV rapids. We maneuver through the exhilarating rapids and point out the intricacies of the rainforest at the river’s edge. Along the way we take time out to do some hiking to spectacular waterfalls and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” near the town of Siquirres we drive to the small town of La Fortuna, the closest town to the Arenal Volcano. There is a wide choice of restaurants to choose from in La Fortuna for dinner.

Meals:  B,L

In the morning we enjoy a picturesque walk through the tropical rainforest. We will be around 2 hours on the Arenal hanging bridges, one of the highlights in this area. Here we'll have wonderful panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. We continue with a visit to the breathtaking Rio Fortuna waterfall which falls 120ft to a large natural swimming pool. The descent is steep and we take the stair set down to the waterfall as we become immersed in the spectacular flora and fauna. The falls spill over into smaller gentler pour overs and swim areas which are our natural playground before we begin our ascent. The afternoon may be spent exploring the town of La Fortuna or relaxing in your hotel. Thanks to the Arenal Volcano’s geothermal activity, there is a number of natural hot springs throughout the area. They are designed to be very much in tune with their natural environment and offer a fantastic way to relax in the warm and soothing mineral waters while enjoying spectacular scenery in close proximity, that’s why you will be transfer tonight at one of these amazing thermal waters where the entrance and a delicious dinner will be also included.

Meals:  B,D

Monteverede is one of the world's most famous cloud forests. It takes about four hours to get to Monteverde by car/boat/car. You will be transferred by car to Arenal Lake, then take a 30 minute boat ride across the picturesque Lake Arenal to the town of Río Chiquito on the south side of the lake from where you will be transported by car to your hotel in Monteverde. Breakfast is included before you depart. You can choose your own spot for lunch and dinner in Monteverde.

Meals:  B

There are a variety of optional activities in Monteverde: guided or solo hike through Monteverde or Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, Canopy Tour, a walk around the galleries and coffee houses of Santa Elena, Don Juan Coffee Tour, horseback riding, etc. Most activities can be booked by your hotel or you can pre-book them through World Expeditions.

Meals:  B

There is time this morning to continue to enjoy the Cloud Forest before your pick up for the return journey to San Jose. The evening is free to enjoy the nightlife and restaurants of San Jose.

Meals:  B

This morning you will be transferred to San Jose airport after breakfast where the trip concludes.

Meals:  B


Learning outcomes for students

World Expeditions Schools journeys are designed to encourage positive personal development and the learning of life skills, while leaving the communities and environments we travel to, in a better condition than when we arrived.
The programs are designed to:
• build strong friendships and bonds with their peers, their teachers, and the local people they meet.
• increase the confidence to engage with new people, and collaboratively make informed decisions.
• discover the benefits of working cooperatively together as a cohesive team, to achieve a common objective.
• Increase the ability to face, and cope with, mental and physical challenges and therefore increase resilience.
• give students a chance to appreciate and care for the natural world. The environments we travel through are beautiful and often pristine, invariably the students will gain a deeper appreciation and understanding about how their individual actions impact on the environment.
• Learn personal skills i.e., time management, personal hygiene, responsibility for personal gear, patience, tolerance, and public speaking.
We help encourage students to learn what it means to be a true global citizen.


Inclusions

  • Accommodation on a twin-share basis
  • 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
  • Internal transport
  • Expert local guide
  • Airport Transfers on Day 1 and Day 8
  • Group rafting equipment

  • Drinks of any kind (e.g. bottled water, soft drinks, beers etc)
  • Items of a personal nature ie laundry, phone calls
  • International airfares and airport taxes
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • Optional activities on Days 5, 6 & 7

About Your Leader

For groups smaller than 6 people, a local leader will join you on each section of the trip from days 1 to 4. For groups of 6 or more people, a local leader will travel with you from the start of day 1 to day 4. On days 5-7 you will be without a guide and free to do as much or as little as you like depending on the option you take. Our guides are bilingual and many of our departures are conducted in English as well as Spanish or another second language.


Grading

Introductory

This trips involve some activity and are suitable for people with a normal level of fitness and good health. The itinerary may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and may involve long travel days on various types of transport. Sightseeing may be conducted on foot and all participants should be capable of carrying their own luggage from vehicle to hotel rooms. * Suggested preparation: Two or three time a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour, for at least 2 -3 months prior to departure.


Why travel with us

Why travel with us

Assisted over
14,000 Students Worldwide

Since the 1980's, we have helped students from around the globe to experience the world's most exciting destinations, allowing them to travel, give, grow.

400+ Service Learning
Programs

Together with students, we have completed over 400 Service Learning programs in developing countries. We will always continue to support causes including social justice, animal welfare, the environment and more.

Fully Customised
School Travel Programs

Want to include service learning, your school curriculum and a physical challenge, or any of the above? Contact us and we can design a program fully catered for your students and budget.

Safety and
Support - Our #1 Priority

Every school receives a detailed risk management plan that is guided by government advisories and the local partners we work with. We never compromise on the safety of your students to reduce the price of the program.

Testimonials


Want to find out more?

Our educational travel experts are ready to help you tailor an itinerary or service learning project to suit your school’s needs and budget. Contact us today to receive a free consultation.


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