Costa Rica Amber

This tour is the combination of the Irazu Volcano National Park and the Orosi Lankester Garden tours. To that end the tour offers the mystique of the Irazu Volcano, and the enchantment of the lush gardens in Orosi. The tour will begin with us trekking south along the Panamerican Highway until we reach the base of the behemoth “Iztaru” (a name of an indigenous village that was situated on the flanks of the volcano, and a likely candidate as a possible origin for the current name of the Irazu Volcano). The winding road traverses fertile lands in which all types and forms of vegetation are cultivated, all the while affording us a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. And, at the very top of the summit, on a clear day, one can be privy to an unforgettable bird’s eye view of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

As we descend to the city of Cartago we will stop at the Virgin of the Angels Basilica – a famous peregrination site for many believers, some of which travel for days or even weeks on foot, in a pilgrimage of faith, to the site. The Basilica has large vaulted ceilings and exquisite examples of stained glass windows, and is a must see. Next, after we visit the Basilica we will stop at the Lankester Gardens, a University of Costa Rica Center for investigation that protects more than 800 species of orchids, bromeliads and countless species of other plants. Then, we will continue to the Valley of Orosi, an area that overflows with unparallel beauty. We will be able to visit one of the few remaining colonial churches and we will stop to enjoy a scrumptious typical lunch at one of the local restaurants.

The Arenal Volcano with Ecotermales Hot Springs tour is by far a favorite among travelers. This tour offers the auspicious site of the imposing Arenal Volcano and the soothing thermal waters of Ecotermales Hot Springs. Not to mention the lush vegetation and unforgettable views that make this place one to remember. The impressive Arenal Volcano is a magnificent natural wonder that is situated in La Fortuna (The Fortune), San Carlos, providing thousands and thousands of tourists with the opportunity to witness volcanic activity, such as the white plumes of smoke that emanate from the conical shaped behemoth. It is important to note that the volcano had previously been assumed to be dormant, until in 1968, when it experienced a major eruption.

Enroute to the Arenal Volcano there will be a stop in the famous town of Sarchi, known as the birthplace of Costa Rica’s Artisans. In Sarchi, you may very well see an ox cart that holds the title as being the largest ox cart in the world. The cart is made of wood (cedar) and is decorated with stunning colors, such as a bright orange. The design is typical and intricate, indicative of traditional oxcarts. The ox cart is two stories high and took 70 days to complete. The oxcart is also deserves an honorable mention in the Guinness book of world records.

The journey will then continue, traversing diverse plantations with agricultural products, including pineapple farms, and mango groves, ornamental plants and cattle ranches until arriving to the small town of La Fortuna, and stopping to enjoy lunch at a cozy restaurant with a spectacular view of the Arenal volcano. Then you will go on to relax at one of the best hot springs in the area where you will enjoy the rejuvenating effects of the thermal waters, as well as an optional massage or other special treatment that must be reserved ahead of time. And for a perfect ending, before going back, a wonderful dinner will be served with a great view of the volcano so that you do not miss any opportunity to look at the stunning and classically shaped volcano one more time.

Discover the magic of a dream island, Tortuga Island. It is located in the Gulf of Nicoya, 12 nautical miles from Puntarenas, Tortuga Island (called by the indigenous people Tolinga) has an area of 120 hectares and is maintained as a protected forest, which has enjoyed the Ecological Blue Flag for more than five years. This distinction is given to beaches in our country whose waters are free of contamination.

Due to its geographical characteristics, its waters are turquoise, and are optimal for swimming. Our Catamaran has three different environments for your enjoyment: the main salon with air conditioning, bar section and dressing rooms; another area is the bow with a wonderful view of all the landscapes where we will sail; and our upper deck, an area conditioned for your rest, where you can enjoy a large jacuzzi.

Day at leisure in San José.

Look for the optional tours suggested.

Day at leisure in San José.

Look for the optional tours suggested.

Once your unique experience around Costa Rica is complete; you will depart for the airport. You should be at the airport three hours before your flight departure time, and your transportation will be ready to arrive on time.

Included

• Transfers from / to airport
• 7 nights lodging with breakfasts included.
• Regular Excursion: San José City Tour
• Regular Excursion: Poás Volcano Tour, Doka Coffee Tour & La Paz Waterfall
• Regular excursion: Irazu Volcano, Orosi Valley & Lankester Gardens
• Regular Excursion: Arenal Volcano & Ecotermales Thermal Springs
• Regular Excursion: Tortuga Island Tour
• Value Added Tax
• Infants from 0 to 2 years old do not pay
• Child rate applies from 3 to 11 years old. Maximum 2 children sharing room with their parents.

Not included

• Activities not indicated in program
• Meals not indicated in the program
• Tips for bellboys
• Tips for waitresses – All risk insurance for the rental car
• All risk insurance for the rental car
• Compulsory Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinners

Requirements for the rental car

• Valid driver’s license. The foreign license is valid in Costa Rica for 90 days from the date of entry to the country
• Minimum age of the driver is 23 years old
• The driver must have a valid driver’s license from the country of origin.
• The driver must present a valid passport
• The driver must present original credit card (AMEX, VISA, MASTER CARD) and available for the guarantee deposit ($500.00 approximately)