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Costa Rica is the prime location for many world-class
activities. Deep-sea fishing, whitewater rafting, diving,
or bird-watching, this is he place to be for unparalleled
adventure in a natural paradise.
Lets take a look at a few adventures that Costa Rica offers
you.
Diving
Snorkeling and scuba have risen in popularity beyond expectations
with local and visiting divers.
The south Caribbean coast is prime location for coral reefs
where divers can remain on or near the surface rarely going
to depths of more than five meters. Several reefs can be
reached by walking, especially at low tide, there is a difference
in tidal changes. The best reefs with nearby available equipment
for snorkeling are Cahuita and the Gandoca - Manzanillo
area. North of the city of Limon dive adventures are limited
to more experienced divers, waters are silty along the shoreline
and often as out as a hundred meters or more. The canals,
rivers and lagoons are relatively clear but tan in color
and contains predators. Divers may be conflicting with sea
turtles during migrations which hit peaks from August to
November. Divers are not permitted in National Parks or
reserves, within five hundred meters of the protected sea
turtle zone north of Tortuguero National Park.
The Pacific has different types of dive adventures, blue
water encounters with pelagic giants and gamefish in schools
that move into and out of areas on migratory runs. Most
of the Pacific is open to divers, contain clear water and
ample dive shops for equipment rental and compressors.
Many resorts have PADI instructors and schedules trips to
nearby locations. The islands of the Pacific coast are growing
in popularity for trips up to eight days. Some trips are
seasonal, others operate all year. Night dives are available
on most extended trips to islands in demand: Cano, Isla
del Coco, Catalina and the Manta.
National Parks
- Santa Rosa National Park
- Rincón de la Vieja National Park
- Ostional National Wildlife Refuge
- Las Baulas National Park
- Cabo Blanco Strict Nature Reserve
- Barra Honda National Park
- Palo Verde National Park
- Guayabo, Negritos & Pájaros Islands Biological Reserves
- Peñas Blancas Wildlife Refuge
- Carara Biological Reserve
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Caño Island Biological Reserve
- Corcovado National Park
- Golfito Biological Reserve
- La Amistad International Park
- Chirripó National Park
- Hitoy-Cerere Biological Reserve
- Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge
- Cahuita National Park
- Tortuguero National Park
- Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge
- Braulio Carrillo National Park
- Poás Volcano National Park
- Irazú Volcano National Park
- Guayabo National Monument
- Tapantí Wildlife Refuge
- Cocos Island National Park
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
- Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Sports Fishing
Costa Rica has some of the best sports fishing in the world.
Three different fishing zones are well defined by geographical
lines as well as varieties of species. The Pacific and the
Caribbean are obvious. However, the least known and understood
is the variety of action available within the country's
interior.
Due to the rising costs, passengers are demanding to know
more details about their proposed trips and what will be
required to insure success before they leave their hometown.
Surfing
Beaches on the Pacific coast are the most popular, the waves
are adequate throughout most of the year. The less populated
beaches on the lower Nicoya Peninsula, around the Golfo
Dulce and the east of the Osa Peninsula, are most liked
by the surfers due to their privacy.
Santa Rosa National Park (Playa Naranjo) is very popular
but is difficult to reach approximately six months out of
the year due to the condition of the only road to this great
white sand beach.
The Central Pacific area, Jaco Beach and Manuel Antonio
National Park are also two very popular spots.
The Northern Caribbean side has high waves approximately
nine months a year, but is commonly visited by very aggressive
bull sharks. Towards the south, waves are smaller than those
on the Pacific , but surfers ride their boards to the clear
coral reefs and snorkel for lobster.
Windsurfing is becoming very popular in Lake Arenal.
White Water Rafting / Kayaking
White water sports are the most publicized tours in Costa
Rica. More than a dozen rivers are being used to operate
these tours , from the Disney-like floats to Class IV. (Corobici,
Reventazon, Pacuare and Chirripo just to name a few).
This adventure can be taken as a one day tour or the extended
version of two days and three days, camping on the riverbanks
just before sunset. All these tours are guided, and a few
offer additional attractions.
Other adventures available:
- Four-wheel drive adventure
- Mountain biking
Surfing Locations
Caribbean Coast
Surf Season: November thru March
Puerto Viejo (Salsa Brava) - Costa Rica's most powerful
wave, tubular and very dangerous because if you don't make
it, you will visit your friend "Salsa Reef". The break is
called Salsa Brava and is located front of the town of Puerto
Viejo where you can find hotels, camping, restaurants and
night life Caribbean-style. Great place to surf but when
the swell arrives there's a big crowd waiting for the tubes,
and some get stuck in the reef, so bring a big board and
always stay focused.
Playa Cocles - Good right beach break. The beach is located
near Puerto Viejo (south from P. V.), and you can go walking
by the beach in a trail with beautiful trees and birds along
the way, or go by car and stay in the accommodations in
front of the beach.
Manzanillo - Very good right point break, located 20KM south
of Puerto Viejo. There are few accommodations. The break
is in the Gandoca - Manzanillo National Park.
Westfalia - Beach breaks along the road from Limon to Cahuita
National Park. It can be dangerous because of the strong
currents, so stay out if it's big.
Black Beach, Cahuita - Cahuita is a National Park, is North
from Puerto Viejo, Usually it gets good with big swells,
so some people escape crowded Salsa and catch some nice
waves nearby. You will find accommodations and beautiful
trails along the coast and entering the mountains.
Playa Bonita - Used to be one of the best waves, but the
earthquake raised the land here, and now you'll get good
waves only few times a year. There are accommodations and
the beach is located north of Limon city (5KM).
Portete - Right point break, located north of Playa Bonita,
accommodations nearby.
Isla Uvita - Christopher Columbus came to this little island
when he first visited Costa Rica in his fourth trip. The
Island is in front of Limon, and you have to take a boat
(five dollars p. p. ) at Limon, or at Piuta, a nearby town
to the north. On the island you will find no accommodations
or water, so bring all your stuff, because if you want you
can camp in the area.
Uvita has an impressive left, which can get big and dangerous,
so ask the locals how to get out from the point to the island,
because if you go straight you can have trouble with the
reef. You'll have to do a half moon and stay out of the
inside when you are going out or when you are caught by
a big set.
North Pacific Coast
Surf Season: November through March
Potrero Grande - Famous right point break, located near
"El Coco" beach. The only way to get there is by boat from
Ocotal or Coco Beach, and you'll have to take all your supplies
for camping or for the day. Nice big tubular wave, if the
swell is on.
Playa Naranjo - This beach is called "Roca Bruja" which
means Witch's Rock. The longest tube ride here has a very
good break with strong offshore wind from December to March.
Located in the national park of Santa Rosa, you must pay
the entrance fee. From April to October the road is closed
because the rainy season leaves the road impassable, but
you can leave your car at the entrance and go walking or
take a boat from El Coco or Ocotal. Be prepared to camp
because there are no facilities.
Playa Grande - Good beach break, very good from December
to February. You can see turtles nesting at night. Hotels
and restaurants nearby, sometimes it gets very good with
big tubes. Normally you'll find good waves as long as the
wind is to the north.
El Estero - A river mouth; right break at the Tamarindo
Bay entrance, very long ride but very crowded because the
accommodations are very good at Tamarindo. From the river
mouth you can go walking to Playa Grande or to the other
points nearby Tamarindo. When the swell is on there are
waves for everyone.
Pico Pequeño - A rocky point with a right in front of Hotel
Tamarindo. It's very good when there are big swells but
normally they are small.
Langosta - A river mouth right, located 1 mile south of
Tamarindo. There are some rocks underwater, so don't think
Langosta is a beach break. Beautiful white sand beaches
along the way.
La Piedra del Zapo - A right point break, located south
from Langosta, better be low tide to cross the river easily.
Avellanas - You can surf all along the beach. There are
three famous points at this beach: when the swell is in
you can surf a left point break at the southern part of
the beach; when the waves are normal you should get good
left tube rides at the "Purruja Point", located in the middle
of the beach; finally, you can surf the river mouth that
throws nice rights and lefts (this northern part is the
most consistent). The rocky points sometimes are amazingly
tubular. Few places to stay or camp, and in the winter you'll
need 4WD. This is a nice white sand beach.
Little Hawaii - Located north of Avellanas. You can see
it breaking from the river mouth; you can go walking or
by car but be careful because a lot of people has their
rented cars taken by the river, so it's recommended to enter
by walking on the beach instead.
Playa Negra - Located between Avellanas and Santa Cruz.
A nice rocky point right, large and tubular waves. In recent
times the beach has been invaded by surfers from all over
the world, making it a crowded point from time to time.
Callejones - Located south of Playa Negra. Good right point
break very similar to Negra, and people like to go there
when Playa Negra is crowded.
Junquillal - A point break, breaking at high tide. Located
south of Playa Negra. You can get there by walking on the
beach.
Nosara - Little town with airport and accommodations: near
good beach breaks, like Nosara (rights and lefts), Punta
Guiones, Camaronal and Puerto Carrillo. If you follow the
road south you'll find accommodations and a lot of breaks
with no names.
Punta Guiones - Big wave beach break. There are places to
stay but not in front of the beach; there are some tree
houses at the beach to help you stay out of the rain or
sun, and you can camp there if you bring all your stuff.
You can buy in Nosara.
Puerto Carrillo - Has a beach break with regular size and
a wonderful white sand beach. Located south of Samara.
Camaronal - Located south of Puerto Carrillo. Nice beach
break but surrounded by rocks; it gets very big and the
set comes in constantly. Nice place to camp, but there are
no accommodations at this beach.
Mal Pais - Nice rights and lefts. You can find three
excellent points at this beach, as well as accommodations
and restaurants in a wonderful place to stay. Also it's
near a great National Park called Cabo Blanco that has some
points of its own.
Cabo Blanco National Park - If you go walking by the beach
in the park, you'll find nice rocky points, but it can be
dangerous because it's not a well-known area. Always surf
with someone else for safety.
Central Pacific Coast
Surf Season: April thru November
Boca Barranca - A river mouth with an excellent and very
long left. Many places to stay, and when its good you'll
ride about 1km, then walk by the beach to the point. When
it's good, it's a great wave, but it's not good all the
time. It's considered the second longest ride in Costa Rica.
Puerto Caldera - Nice powerful left at the port. Needs a
large swell, and it's better at low tide. No accommodations
nearby. If you ask the people who work there you can pass
throw the port gate to other rocky points like "Tepezcoelollo",
but sometimes they won't let you in. Also the water may
be polluted because of ships.
Tivives - The entrance is at the coastal highway, south
of Caldera. The beach break gets rights and lefts with a
lot of current, and at the river mouth you can find the
perfect left (sometimes tubular). There are no accommodations,
but you can camp, and there are a couple of restaurants
for supplies.
Valor - This Rocky point located south of Tivives gets very
good and very big. You'll have to cross the river paddling,
then walk on trails and you're there.
Playa Escondida - Very powerful reef break. The road is
private, so you'll either need a pass or have to get a boat
from Playa Herradura. Lately this beach has been really
crowded, but you still can catch a wave or two if the swell
is on. This is a tubular ride, if you don't make it you
can get cut with the reef, so its not a beginners wave.
Jaco - Fun beach break, you can surf along the beach. This
town is full of surfers, and you'll find all the accommodations
and entertainment you want. It's a nice place to stay because
its near a lot of good points, and you can buy or repair
boards. You'll also find all the information you need about
points and current swells.
Roca Loca - Right break. Located on the way to Playa Hermosa
about 1. 5KM south of Jaco. When you see it you have to
descend a hill. It's not a safe place. Surrounded by rocks.
Playa Hermosa - Long beach full of points. This is one of
the most crowded beaches (some weekends you can count 100+
surfers along the beach) because it's near Jaco and San
Jose. This beach is very constant and it throws tubes and
perfect waves when the conditions are right.
Esterillo Este & Oeste - Beach breaks with few accommodations
& restaurant nearby, nice place to camp. The points are
located south of Hermosa Beach along the coastal highway.
Bejuco - Good beach break, located south of Esterillo Este.
Few accommodations nearby.
Boca Damas - Located north of Quepos, good rights and lefts
in a river mouth. Ask the locals if you can't find it. You
can walk in from Quepos.
South Pacific Coast
Surf Season: April thru November
Quepos - Left break located front of the town of Quepos.
Needs a large swell to work well. Lots of restaurants and
hotels. This town is popular, so you'll find good night
life too.
Playita Manuel Antonio - Lefts and rights beach break, located
north of Manuel Antonio. This break needs a large swell
or it's too small for good surfing.
Playa El Rey - Beach break with right and left, a lot like
Playa Hermosa. No accommodations but a good place for camping
and surfing; you'll have to ask the locals from Quepos how
to get there, because the entrance is in a palm plantation.
Playa Dominical - If you're lucky enough you will surf along
with the dolphins in a wonderful experience, they'll jump
along right next to you. A good place to stay. Here you'll
surf rights and lefts; like a beach break but some rocks
below. Lots of restaurants and places to stay.
Drake Bay - This point is located at Peninsula de Osa, and
you'll have to take a boat and bring all your things, because
there are no accommodations. This area is full of points,
but because of its difficult access it's not a well known
area.
Matapalo - Powerful right, located in front of Pavones.
A rocky point and also a rocky way out; be careful going
out because the wave can push you into the shore rocks.
You can get there by boat (From Pavones, Puerto Jimenez)
or by road from Puerto Jimenez (20 minutes). Few accommodations
nearby, and no restaurant. When it gets big you better have
a big board or go surfing Back Wash. In some cases the local
families can give you food -- you'll have to ask them if
you didn't bring your stuff.
Back Wash - Located South of Matapalo, very nice right rocky
point, wonderful white sand beach. When Matapalo is too
big to surf, Backwash is the place to go; it has huge swells.
No accommodations at the beach, but you'll find some places
nearby, but they can be expensive, so be prepared.
Pan Dulce - Located South of Backwash, this would be the
longest left of this three points (Matapalo, Backwash, Pan
Dulce), but it's only surfable with big swells -- if you're
lucky you can have a great time, but if you're not, head
for Backwash or Matapalo.
Pavones - This wave is considered one of the longest
in the world, about 1. 3 KM when the conditions are good.
Here you'll find plenty of surfer accommodations, restaurants,
and places to stay or camp, but because this beach is famous
it's sometimes very crowded. About 400KM of San Jose, you
can get there from Golfito, or via the southern border (Panama).
If you go by Golfito, the ferry closes at 5:30PM.
Punta Banco - Reef breaks with rights and lefts. Located
2 miles south of Pavones by road. Good place to go when
Pavones is too small, or crowded. Accommodations nearby.
Punta Burica - The last beach south on the Pacific coast,
there's no road, so you'll have to take a boat and ride
this great break alone with your friends.
Tour Operators
Central American Tours
Package Tours - Custom made itineraries available for special
groups and individuals
Package #1
Costa Rica At Its Finest
7 Nights San Jose
Sitting at an elevation of 3600 feet, in Costa Rica's Central
Valley, San Jose is the perfect location to experience this
ecological paradise. Daily excursions will allow you to
enjoy the best of our National Parks and Reserves.
Included:
7 Nights hotel accommodations
Transfer airport - hotel - airport
Half-day city sightseeing
Full - day Pacific Island Cruise
Full - Day Poas Volcano and Oxcart Factory
Meals included only when specified. Walking shoes, binoculars,
mosquito repellant, hat, and bathing suit recommended.
Package #2
Costa Rica Nature Adventure
3 Nights San Jose, 2 Nights San Carlos (FAP), 2 Nights Monteverde
(FAP)
Experience the opportunity of a lifetime. Explore trails
under the canopy of giant trees at the Carara Biological
Reserve. Admire majestic Arenal Volcano with its spectacular
lave eruptions and thundering explosions. Relax at Tabacon
Hot Water Springs. Take an exciting jungle boat ride to
Cano Negro. Visit Monteverde's six different eco systems
and home of the Resplendent Quetzal.
Included:
7 Nights hotel accommodation
Transfer airport - hotel - airport
Caraca Biological Reserve
Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Springs
Cano Negro Wild Life Refuge
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Meals included only when specified. Walking shoes, binoculars,
mosquito repellant, hat, and bathing suit recommended.
Package #3
City / Mountain / Beach
3 Nights San Jose, 1 Night Monteverde (FAP), 3 Nights Beach
Perfect combination: San Jose's friendly charm, Monteverde's
ecological paradise and time to discover Costa Rica's beautiful
beaches. You can choose from any one of our relaxing beaches
with this packege: Hotel Fiesta, Punta Leona or Jaco Beach
in Puntarenas, conveniently located only one and a half
hour drive to San Jose, Flamingo Beach, Tamarindo, El Ocotal
or Manuel Antonio, and a short flight from SanJose.
Included:
7 Nights hotel accommodation
Transfer airport - hotel - airport
Half-day city sightseeing
Transfer San Jose - Monteverde
Transfer Monteverde - Beach
Transfer Beach - San Jose
Meals included only when specified. Walking shoes, binoculars,
mosquito repellant, hat, and bathing suit recommended.
Package #4
City and Beach
3 Nights San Jose, 4 Nights Beach
A short stay in San Jose with a half day city tour. Visit
the National Theater, National Museum, University of Costa
Rica and shop for some of the country's hand crafted bargains.
Transfer to one of our popular beaches to enjoy a few days
of relaxation and Costa Rican hospitality.
Included:
7 Nights hotel accommodation
Transfer airport - hotel - airport
Half-day city sightseeing
Transfer Beach - San Jose
Meals included only when specified. Walking shoes, binoculars,
mosquito repellant, hat, and bathing suit recommended.
For international flight departures we recommend to spend
your last night in San Jose.
Package #5
Costa Rica's Pacific Adventure
2 Nights San Jose
3 Nights Fiesta Hotel
2 Nights Monteverde (FAP)
After a pleasant overnight in San Jose, your Pacific Adventure
will begin. Our naturalist guide will unveil the secrets
of the Carara Biological Reserve before driving you to the
lovely Fiesta Hotel. Enjoy an exciting cruise on the calm
waters of the beautiful Gulf of Nicoya. Move on to the highlands
and discover Monteverde's ecological paradise. Return to
San Jose for your last night before returning home.
Included:
7 Nights hotel accommodation
Transfer airport - hotel - airport
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Pacific Island Cruise
Carara Biological Reserve
Meals included only when specified. Walking shoes, binoculars,
mosquito repellant, hat, and bathing suit recommended.
Multi - Day Tours
Tilajari Package
Adventure into the region of the Arenal Volcano includes
accommodations at the delightful Tilajari Lodge (or similar).
The tour includes a visit to the Tabacon hot springs and
a boat ride through Caño Negro Preserve. View the volcano's
glow from an observation point at sunset.
Operates Daily
We recommend: towel and swimsuit, walking shoes, sweater
or light jacket, binoculars, insect repellent and flashlight.
2 Day / 1 Night
SGL - FAP DBL - FAP TPL - FAP
First day Arenal Volcano & Tabacón Hot Springs
Hotel accommodations
Lunch / dinner
Second day Caño Negro Adventure
Breakfast / lunch
Transfer back to San José or if the client has the Monteverde
Package, they will continue from Arenal to Monteverde after
the Caño Negro Adventure; that will be around 2:30pm
3 Day / 2 Nights
SGL - FAP DBL - FAP TPL - FAP
First day Arenal Volcano & Tabacón Hot Springs
Hotel accommodation
Lunch / dinner
Second day Optional activity
(if client has a combined package with Monteverde, they
will have the Caño Negro on this day)
Hotel accommodation
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Third day Caño Negro Adventure
Breakfast / lunch
Transfer back to San Jose
(If client has the Monteverde Package, on this day they
will have the transfer from Arenal to Monteverde in the
morning)
Monteverde Package
Watch the landscape change on a 3 hour journey to the famous
cloud forest north of San José. Stay in the charming De
Montaña Hotel (or Similar) surrounded by nature. Tour the
Monteverde Park and return to San José late afternoon.
Operated under Schedule
We recommend: Hiking Boots, binoculars and insect repellent.
2 Day / 1 Night
SGL - FAP DBL - FAP TPL - FAP
First day Transfer from San José to Monteverde
Bird Farm
Hotel accommodation
Lunch / dinner
Second day Monteverde Cloud Forest
Hummingbird Gallery
Cheese Factory
Breakfast / lunch
Transfer back to San José
3 Day / 2 Nights
SGL - FAP DBL - FAP TPL - FAP
First day Transfer from San José to Monteverde in the morning
Lunch / dinner
Hotel Accommodation
Afternoon free
Second day Monteverde Cloud Forest
Cheese Factory
Hummingbird Gallery
Bird Farm
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Third day Breakfast
Transfer back to San José
Marenco Package
Marenco Biological Station is nestled in a tropical wilderness
within the rain forest on the wild Pacific Shoreline of
Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula.
Operates daily
We recommend Hiking Boots, sunscreen, insect repellent and
binoculars.
3 Day / 2 Nights
DBL Valid until Oct.31
First day Air & boat transfer to Marenco
Hotel accommodation
Lunch / dinner
Second day Corcovado National Park
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Third day Breakfast
Boat & air transfer to San José
4 Day / 3 Nights
DBL p/person Valid until Oct.31
First day Air & boat transfer to Marenco
Lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Second day Corcovado National Park
Hotel accommodation
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Third day Caño Island
Breakfast / lunch /dinner
Hotel accommodation
Fourth day Breakfast
Boat & air transfer to San José
5 Day / 4 Nights
DBL Valid until Oct.31
First day Air & boat transfer to Marenco
Lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Second day Corcovado National Park
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Third day Caño Island
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Fourth day Rio Claro Tour
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Fifth day Breakfast
Boat & air transfer to San José
Tortuguero Package
Enjoy a canal tour through the Tortuguero National Park
by boat and walk through the rain forest to observe the
teeming wildlife.
Operates daily during the High Season. Low Season under
Schedule
We recommend: sunscreen, binoculars and insect repellent.
Mawamba 2D/1NT
First day Ground transportation to point of embarkation
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Boat transfer into the Tortuguero Canals
Second day Boat transfer intothe Tortuguero Canals
Breakfast / lunch
Ground transfer back to San José
SGL DBL TPL N/A
Mawamba 3D / 2NT
First day Ground transportation to point of embarkation
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Boat transfer into the Tortuguero Canals
Second day Tortuguero National Park Tour
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Third day Boat transfer into the Tortuguero Canals
Breakfast / lunch
Ground transfer back to San José
SGL DBL TPL N/A
Tortuguero Expeditions
Tortuguero Jungle Expedition (The) 2D / 1NT
First day Early morning flight to Tortuguero
Tortuguero Canals Tours (morning & afternoon)
Hotel accommodation
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Second day Breakfast
Flight back to San José
Short Tortuguero Jungle Oddyssey (NTJO) 2D / 1NT
DBL Valid until Oct.31
First day Morning flight to Tortuguero
Rest of the day is free ( optional activities-extra cost)
Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Second day Breakfast
Boat transfer back to Limón
Ground transfer back to San José
Tortuguero Jungle Oddyssey (TJO) 3D / 2NT
DBL Valid until Oct.31
First day Ground & boat transfer to Tortuguero
Lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Second day Breakfast / lunch / dinner
Hotel accommodation
Optional activities ( extra cost )
Third day Breakfast
Early flight back to San José
This tour may be run in reserve order:
First day Flight to Tortuguero
Third day Transfer back to San Jose by boat / bus
Includes same as above plus one extra meal.
Notes:
Rates are per person in US Dollars.
National Parks entrance fees are included
Rates for children are not available in some of the tours,
but in other one have age restrictions.
Children between 0-2 years old do not have to pay the tour.
Rates may change without previous notice.
Day Tours From San Jose
(B,L,D,S) Indicates : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner or Snack
Included
City Sightseeing Tour
Enjoy a half-day tour of Costa Rica's largest city, San
José. Explore the culture and history of this international
hub; visit the National Theater and Museum, also some shopping
districts.
Operates daily
Price per person
Lankester Gardens & Orosi Tour
At Lankester, nature lovers can stroll through a lush botanical
garden and marvel at approximately 800 varieties of orchids,
anthuriums and ferns. These wonderful gardens have been
declared a refuge for many migratory species of birds. A
visit to Orosi, a place admired the world around, you will
view the Lost Ruins of Ujarrás, the Bride's Veil Waterfalls
and the Cachi Dam. 7-8 hours (L)
Operates daily.
Price per person
Irazú Volcano / Orosi Valley
Pass coffee and large vegetable plantations as you ascend
the slopes of Costa Rica's famous volcano. Stop in Cartago,
the old capital city, to visit Los Angeles Basilica where
the patron saint of the country is enshrined. After lunch,
you travel to Orosi Valley, the "Shangri-La"of Central America.
You view the lost ruins of Ujarrás, one of the oldest Spanish
settlements in the country, and see the thundering Bride's
Veil waterfall which drops 300 feet to the floor of the
valley. 8 hours (L)
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: Walking shoes and sweater or light jacket
and binoculars.
Also available, Half day Irazú Volcano Tour, 4 hours
Price per person ( lunch not included)
Arenal Volcano
A delightful 2 hour drive through the central highlands
leads you to Costa Rica's most active volcano. Travel past
the quaint towns of San Ramón, La Tigra and Chachagua before
descending into the San Carlos plains. Visit "The Tabacón
recreational spot with hot water sulphur springs. Then view
majestic Arenal with its spectacular fiery display for thundering
explosions. 10 hours (S-L)
Operates daily
Price per person
This tour also operates from Punta Leona, Jaco Beach & Fiesta
Hotels.
We recommend: Towel and swimsuit, walking shoes, sweater
or light jacket, binoculars and flashlight.
Poas Volcano / Oxcart Factory
Enjoy this partially active volcano, approximately 1 hour
drive northwest of San José. One of the widest craters in
the world, Poas still discharges smoke and steam. Travel
through the town of Alajuela. After lunch at a local restaurant,
you visit Sarchi and the Oxcart Factory. Here local artisans
practice the national art form of unique painting. 7 hours
(L)
Operates daily.
Price per person
This tour also operates from Punta Leona and Jaco Beach
Hotels.
Also available from San José -Half day Poas Volcano Tour.
Price per person
Los Angeles Cloud Forest
Early morning departure from San José to the private 2.000
acre cloud forest situated at 2.800 - 3.900 feet. A guided
hike allows you to view the various species of birds, plants
and mammals. 12 hours (L)
Operates daily.
Price per person
We recommend: Hiking boots, insect repellent and binoculars.
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Drive through some of the most diversified countryside of
all Costa Rica and stop for a Typical breakfast. At Los
Chiles, you board a comfortable boat for a tour of the refuge
which consists of 9.000 hectares of tropical rain forests.
The great biological diversity of the area attracts birdwatchers
and nature lovers alike. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks
of the river before returning to San José early this evening.
12 hours (B,L)
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: Binoculars and insect repellent.
Aerial Tram
Travel from San José to this unique eco tourism and research
facility. The Tram will take visitors on a 90 minute excursion
through the rain forest canopy and its hanging gardens of
plants and animals hidden at the tops of tall rain forest
species, the rain forest canopy is little-known world of
tremendous beauty and extraordinary biological diversity.
The site, next to the northern border of Braulio Carrillo
National Park, possesses one of the richest canopy communities
in the world. 4 hours
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: Binoculars and insect repellent.
Children under 5 years cannot board the tram.
Coffee Tour and Butterfly Farm.
The "Coffee Tour" is a multimedia presentation for all ages
using actors to describe coffee production from the farm
to the beverage we all know. Visitors will also have a chance
to sample this fine product. erfly Farm offers a two hour
guided tours teaching you the incredible details of the
complex life-cycle of some of the world's most beautiful
butterflies. This farm is home to 1.000 butterflies. 7 hours
(L)
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: walking shoes.
Half day Coffee Tour 4 hours. Lunch not included.
Price per person
Butterfly Farm Tour 4 hours. Lunch included in the 11:00
AM Show.
Price per person
Carara Biological Reserve & Punta Leona
This is a transitional rain forest with lush vegetation
and abundant wildlife. Observe the many birds: Macaws, parrots,
guans, toucans, trogons, flycatchers, kingfishers and hummingbirds.
You will spend approximately 3 hours exploring the trails
accompanied by a naturalist guide. Later stop at Punta Leona
for lunch and time to enjoy the beach. 10 hours (L)
Operates daily
Price per person
This tour also available from the Fiesta Hotel (lunch included)
and from Punta Leona and Jaco Beach Hotels ( lunch not included)
We recommend: Hiking shoes, binoculars, insect repellent,
towel, swimsuit and sunscreen.
Sacramento Horseback Riding
The sound of the city are left behind as you approach the
central mountain range of Sacramento. After being welcomed
with a rich cup of Costa Rican coffee and biscuit, you then
mount your horse and follow your experienced naturalist
guide who will lead you through mountain trails of giant
trees bedecked with bromeliads, ferns, moss and wild orchids.
Experience the enchantment of the sound of silence intermingled
with the musical notes of the birds endemic to the zone.
(L)
2 persons minimum
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: Jeans or sport slacks, towel and insect repellent.
Tortuguero Monkey Adventure
Transfer by bus to Freeman, on the Eastern Caribbean; tour
the Tortuguero National Park by boat for a view of the surrounding
terrain. Monkeys and other inhabitants of the rain forest
are featured guests, it is impossible to enumerate all the
beautiful flowers, the multi-colored frogs, butterflies
and fascinating reptiles. Return by bus late afternoon to
San Jose. Full day (B,L)
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: binoculars, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Whitewater Rafting
Suitable for young and old, this is a chance to raft on
one of the country's mighty rivers, Rio Reventazon. All
rafting is Class 3 and includes safety equipment and an
expert guide. This trip combines sensational white water
rafting with a glimpse of Costa Rican history, agricultural
development and wildlife. Recommended for beginners. Full
day (B,L)
Minimum 12 years of age.
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: Swimsuit, a change of clothes and shoes, plastic
bag for camera.
Rio Pacuare is another option for people with more experience
on rafting. This trip includes same as above. Class IV.
Minimum 16 years of age.
Operates daily
Price per person
We recommend: Same as above.
Pacific Island Cruise
We depart for a scenic early morning drive to the Pacific
seaport city of Puntarenas. Upon arrival, you will be met
by the experienced skipper and crew of the yacht. She is
specially designed for comfort and safety and will take
you on an exciting cruise on the calm waters of the beautiful
Gulf of Nicoya. 12 hours (B,L)
Operates daily. Also available from Fiesta, Jaco Beach and
Punta Leona Hotels.
Price per person
We recommend: Towel, swiming suit, walking shoes, sun-block
lotion, sun glasses, sandals.
Optional Tours Guanacaste
Los Inocentes Horseback Riding
Duration 8 Hours
What to Wear Jeans, T-shirt, Tennis Shoes
Includes Transportation, bilingual Tour Guide, lunch at
Los Inocentes
Los Inocentes is the best place to enjoy the surrounding
of the "Savannas Guanacastecas".
This Cattle Hacienda, involves an outdoor experience on
a horseback or if you prefer a Guided Nature walk enjoying
the spectacular view at the Orosi Volcano, animals, as toucans,
wild parrots, monkeys and iguanas.
Retail P/P Child P/P
Santa Rosa National Park
Duration 7-8 Hours
What to Wear Short, T-shirt, Tennis shoes
Includes Transportation, bilingual Tour Guide, lunch at
Los Inocentes
Sight of the historical 1856 Battle against American filibuster
William Walker and his army of mercenaries, Santa Rosa National
Park, is considered the only Tropical Dry Forest left in
Central America. Amoung the abundant wildlife of the park
we find: Capuchin and Howler Monkeys, Coatis, White Tale
Deer, and numerous birds including Scarlet Macaws and Blue
Jays. We will visit the old "Casona", farm house turned
into a museum and National Monument. Our tour includes delicious
typical lunch at Hacienda Los Inocentes. A stop will be
made at Liberia, capital of Guanacaste with its turn of
the century architecture.
Retail P/P Child P/P
Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
Duration 10 Hours
What to Wear Short, T-shirt, Tennis shoes
Includes Transportation, bilingual Tour Guide, lunch at
Rincon de la Vieja lodge
This is one of the most impressive volcanoes in Costa Rica.
Two craters (one active with a hot water lake), exiting
fumaroles, and a large variety of vegetation and wildlife,
including resplendent Quetzals, monkeys, sloths, and maybe
a cougar ,are part of this one day adventure.
Retail P/P Child P/P
Corobici River Float
Duration 10 Hours
What to Wear Short, T-shirt, Tennis shoes
Includes Transportation, bilingual Tour Guide, lunch at
Rincon de la Vieja lodge
Admire nature as you float down the Corobici River on a
rubber raft. Exotic sights of flora and fauna are common
to this area; ospreys , mot mots; herons, egrets and a variety
of iguanas and monkeys. An unforgettable adventure for all
age groups.
Retail P/P Child P/P
Palo Verde National Park
Duration 10 Hours
What to Wear Short, T-shirt, Tennis shoes
Includes Transportation, bilingual Tour Guide, lunch at
Cañas Hotel
Palo Verde National Park, is known for preserving some of
the most extensive wetlands in Costa Rica, provide refuge
for thousands of migrant and resident waterbirds, numerous
landbirds and many other animals. Crocodiles relax in the
sun while monkeys sprint through the branches overhead as
our jungle boat cruises slowly along the Bebedero and Tempisque
rivers. Scientists from around the world visit this unique
nature sanctuary to learn more about the different species
and find shelter at this wildlife refuge. ** Children under
seven not allowed.
Retail P/P Child P/P
Sea Turtle Nesting Safari
Duration 7 Hours
What to Wear Jeans, dark cotton T-shirt, Tennis shoes, repellent
Includes Transportation, bilingual Tour Guide, entrance
fee to Las baulas
Every year (November to March) Giant Leatherback turtles
come out of the ocean to bury their eggs in the volcanic
beaches of Costa Rica's pacific coast. One of the few remaining
natural nesting grounds is Playa Grande in Guanacaste. Observe
this private ritual under the moon (or star) light. Long
trousers, dark cotton shirt and tennis shoes are recommended.
Retail P/P Child P/P
Guatil Ceramics
Duration 5 Hours
What to Wear Short, T-shirt, Tennis shoes
Includes Transportation, bilingual Tour Guides
The small village of "Guaitil" is home to the last descendants
of the Mayans in our country. Proud of their heritage, they
have protected much of their culture; especially their ceramic
art. Admire how they hand shape mud in to pottery painted
with natural soil colors, just like their ancestors did
thousands of years ago. Our tour includes a visit to the
city of Santa Cruz.
Retail P/P Child P/P
Also available Arenal Volcano Tabacon Springs
very log day (14-15 hours)
Retail P/P Child P/P
J.P. Sportfishing Tours
Costa Rica for the World's Best Fishing!
We fish where the fishing's best, throughout the year.
Costa Rica is a legend among the international sport fishing
fraternity, and nobody in Costa Rica catches more fish,
offers better boats and equipment or provides better service
than J.P. Sportfishing.
There's always incredible billfishing along the Pacific
coast of this beautiful country, but like anyplace in the
world, sailfish and marlin do move depending on the season
and prevailing conditions.
That's why we don't wait for the fish to come to us. We
go where the fish are.
From December to May we work primarily out of Quepos on
the central coast where the major billfish population is
centered. As the sailfish and marlin begin to move north,
we intercept them at Punta Guiones and Flamingo Beach, then
move back to Quepos when the seasonal winds begin to blow
in northern Guanacaste. That's where action is best for
blue, black and stripped marlin and the occasional giant
yellow fin tuna -- that may run from 150 to 300 pounds --
along with sailfish.
Be prepared for incredible catches!
Average catch over the 10 years J.P. Sportfishing Tours
has been operating is 8 to 15 billfish releases per boat
per day. We have many days with over 20 releases and the
record last year aboard the Sea Lady, Queen of our fleet,
was 35 sailfish released in a single day. In 1995, an angler
aboard the Sea Lady established a new IGFA six-pound-tippet
record when he boated a 103-pound sailfish on a fly.
Choose your type of fish
Tired of hooking billfish? Just let your skipper know. He
will find you a school of tuna or dorado in the bluewater,
or work inshore for giant Pacific cubera snapper, mackerel,
blue runners, bonito, small tuna, the beautiful, battling,
roosterfish and more.
Multiple packages available
If you are fishing out of Quepos, we also offer optional
overnight and special daily packages to Drake Bay, gateway
to Corcovado National Park. Anglers here work the seldom
fished waters around Canos Island where the action never
stops.
The Sea Lady
The 34-foot Sea Lady is the Queen of J.P. Sportfishing Tours
fishing fleet. A diesel-powered Crusader. the Sea Lady offers
tournament quality tackle, state of the art electronics,
is fully-rigged. Captain and crew are experts in conventional
fishing, fly fishing and light-tackle angling.
In addition to the Sea Lady, J.P. Sportfishing Tours represents
five other boats, that range 26 to 32 feet, all similarly
rigged and out fitted.
Sportfishing Quepos
Nov 1 to May 1
Boat Full Day
34ft. Sea Lady, Crusader
31ft. wild Dog Betran
31ft. Mad Dog
30ft. Silueta
42ft. T-Boat
25ft. Wahoo, American
Full Day: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Every charter includes: lunch, beer, snacks, sodas, bottles
of water, fruits, tackle, captain and mate.
Our prices also include ground transportations, from your
hotel to the pier, and then from the pier back to your hotel.
Thank you for using JP Sportfishing Tours and we look forward
to hear from you.
We also represent the Hotel el Dorado Mojado, in Manuel
Antonio, Quepos. Each villa has air conditioning and hot
water. Villas are + tax and the Studios are + tax
J.P. Sportfishing Tours
Main Office in San Jose: Tel(011-506)257-8503 or 257-7829
- Fax(011-506)222-8134
P.O. Box 66-1100 Tibas, Costa Rica.
Quepos Office: Tel/Fax(011-506)777-0757 or 777-1613
In the US, call toll free (1-800)308-3394
Cocos Travel Diving Tours
The Cocos Island Dive Adventure: Dive with hammerheads,
whalesharks, dolphins, mantas and other large pelagics
Cousteau called it "one of the best big animal diving sites
in the world". Cocos Island, Costa Rica, is indeed an amazing
place to do scuba diving. Virtually untouched by man, and
fed by a network of ocean currents, the surrounding waters
of Cocos Island support an unusually rich population of
aquatic species, including schooling hammerheads (seen in
schools of 200 or more during rainy season), sailfish, mantas,
silky sharks, whale sharks, dolphins, orcas, green sea turtles,
whitetip reef sharks (all over the place), marble stingrays
and many more. You can dive Cocos aboard the superior vessels
Sea Hunter and the Undersea Hunter year round. We at Cocos
Travel specialize in making all the arrangements necessary
for you. We are a company located right in Costa Rica and
we will be more than happy to answer any questions you might
have on Cocos Island or any other location in Costa Rica.
No matter what part of the world you come from, you can
make your diving trip to Cocos easy by booking through us.
Just send us an e-mail and we will gladly answer your questions
and requests.
Following is more detailed information on Cocos--one of
the few remaining truly wild places on earth.
Come and discover the magic of Cocos!
Located far from view from Costa Rica's mainland (290 miles
southwest), Isla del Coco rises dramatically from the Pacific
Ocean to a height of 634 m (2,080 ft.). It is the oldest
and northernmost peak in a chain called Cocos Ridge, which
stretches south to the Equator and reemerges as the Galapagos
Islands.
You will often find the island capped in cloud cover. Cocos
is blanketed in rain forest and is beautifully ornamented
by a series of waterfalls, some of which fall in a spectacular
manner into the sea. Cocos has an average annual rainfall
of 5.000 - 8.000 mm. (16 - 26 feet). Temperature on the
island is 27 C (81 F). Water temperature is around 26-28
C (78-83 F). Visibility underwater averages 24-30 meters
(80-100 feet) with occasional extremes of 12-37 meters (40
and 120 feet).
Cocos Travel Diving Tours
Tel/Fax: (506) 290-6737 - Costa Rica
Turavia Tour Operator
Turavia Costa Rica has established itself as a leading force
in beach and eco-tourism offering great variety of vacation
packages combining Costa Rica with other Central American
Countries. The spectacular packages to more than 10 National
Parks, circuits and Fly & Drive packages combined with some
of the best beach hotels in the country, have become a trademark
of Turavia.
Turavia is more than just a travel agency, we are a worldwide
organization with many years of experience to guarantee
the best possible service and attention to our clients.
As part of the Barceló Group, Turavia also handles the five
star hotels San José Palacio and Playa Tambor Beach Resort
on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.
Circuits and more
Following we are mentioning 4 great circuit packages 8 days
/ 7 nights:
- Tropical Adventure
- Jungle Tour
- Caribbean Style
- Enchanting Forests and Endless Beaches
Additionally we offer:
- Ground and air transfers anywhere in Costa Rica
- Excursions / Congress and Incentive Groups
- Ground handling services
- Hotel reservations / Car rentals and more....
Turavia Costa Rica has offices in San José, Playa Tambor,
Jaco Beach and Guanacaste.
Contact Us
Telephones: (506) 296-1223 / 296-2227 / 220-2198
Fax: (506) 231-2325 / 220-2197
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