An active trip discovering national parks, volcanoes, stunning beaches and rainforest, on foot, bicycle and river raft

With a lush tropical climate, rich ecosystems and dramatic scenery, Costa Rica makes a perfect destination for this moderately active holiday. We hike through the cloud canopy at the Monteverde Highlands, rich in fantastic flora and fauna, cycle through rural and unspoilt countryside and river-raft along the beautiful Sarapiqui River. A day hiking near Arenal Volcano is another highlight, but Panama's stunning Bocas del Toro islands, where there is ample opportunity to swim, snorkel and dive, is hard to beat.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start San Jose.2 To Manuel Antonio N.P.; afternoon guided tour of park to see local flora and fauna.3 Free day for optional hiking or relaxation on the beach.4 To Monteverde, an area of highland forest known as "Green Mountain".5 Guided walk in Santa Elena Reserve with its diverse ecological systems and significant cloud forest.6 Boat ride to mouth of Rio Chiquito to Lake Arenal; cycle past Arenal Volcano to La Fortuna.7 Visit primary and secondary rainforest; opportunity to swim in waterfalls. 8 To Sarapiqui, rich in biodiversity; whitewater rafting on the Sarapiqui River with a chance to swim.9 To relaxing Puerto Viejo de Limon.10-12 Transfer by boat and road to beautiful Bocas del Toro Islands in Panama for three days of swimming, snorkelling and other optional activities including diving. 13 To charming Cahuita.14 Morning free to explore the town; to San Jose.15 End San Jose.

Mode of travel: Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, boat, on foot, bike and river raft.
Group size: Min. 7, max. 16, plus leader and local guides.
Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 3 nights lodges.
Food: 11 breakfasts and 3 lunches included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $570.00
Trip Reference: AUZ
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.