DATCU Travel Club

Day 1: Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica
Lush forests and stunning waterfalls…rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines…Costa Rica is truly a slice of paradise. Your tour begins in the colorful capital city of San Jose. Upon arrival, relax and soak up the sights of your new surroundings.

Day 2: Thursday, November 12, 2009
San Jose - Poas Volcano - La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
Leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and travel through the verdant countryside of the Central Valley. Travel past tropical landscapes and the ancient Poas Volcano, said to be the widest crater in the world. Later in the day you arrive in the charming town of La Fortuna. Here you will enjoy a two night stay at a typical lodge with breathtaking views of the majestic Arenal Volcano, which has been generating constant lava for the last 30 years.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 3: Friday, November 13, 2009
La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano) - Cano Negro - La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
Of all Costa Rica’s nature preserves, the remote 20,000-acres of Cano Negro are home to the largest viewable selection of indigenous wildlife. During your visit, embark on a guided river boat trip in a panga (covered canoe), making frequent stops to watch and photograph the wildlife around you. Crocodiles, river otters, sloths, river turtles, exotic birds and rare butterflies are all known to live in the area. After your adventure through the preserve, relax at a family-owned hot springs oasis in the geothermal region that surrounds the Arenal Volcano. Stroll through the beautiful grounds, soak in the soothing mineral waters, or take advantage of the first-class spa services.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 4: Saturday, November 14, 2009
La Fortuna - Monteverde
You won’t believe your eyes as you travel into the Monteverde Cloud Forest, where trees grow to heights of 100 feet! In this spectacular ecosystem, you will encounter many incredible species of flora and fauna. Then you continue on to Selvatura Park*, a cloud forest preserve in the heart of Monteverde. Your visit includes an exciting opportunity to fly through the cloud forest on a zip line canopy tour or to take a guided walk among the treetops on a series of hanging bridges! Finally, you will learn about some of the region's most beautiful wildlife with a visit to one of the world’s largest butterfly gardens. You’ll also see the hummingbird gallery containing more than 14 different species!
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 5: Sunday, November 15, 2009
Monteverde
A morning nature walk allows you to discover the natural beauty of the cloud forest first hand. This forest is the home of the world’s largest population of the endangered quetzal, celebrated for its gorgeous jewel-toned plumage. It is an elusive bird but keep your eyes peeled and you may get lucky! This afternoon, visit a local coffee production facility to see how a potent Costa Rican coffee bean is transformed into your morning cup of joe.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 6: Monday, November 16, 2009
Monteverde - Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)
Fun in the sun is in store as you travel to the spectacular Guanacaste region on the northwest Pacific coast. En route, make a special stop at a small cooperative where locals showcase their colorful handmade products. This afternoon, arrive at Playa Hermosa, known for its breathtaking beauty and fine sandy beaches. Here, rest and relaxation go hand-in-hand with mesmerizing ocean views and lush tropical greenery.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 7: Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)
The day is yours to simply enjoy this tropical paradise. Explore the nearby marina and beaches or simply relax by the pool and take advantage of the amenities offered by your all-inclusive resort.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 8: Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Playa Hermosa - Sarchi - San Jose
Take a leisurely ride through the countryside to Sarchi. This charming town is known for its authentic handicrafts. During your visit you will have the chance to tour the local oxcart factory, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs! Continue on to San Jose where you will enjoy a wonderful farewell dinner.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 9: Thursday, November 19, 2009
San Jose - Tour Ends
Today you depart for home with fabulous memories of your adventure in Costa Rica.
Today Breakfast is included.

EXTEND YOUR VACATION WITH...
optional 3-Night Jungle Adventure Post Tour Extension
Rate: $349 USD per person, double, land and air included
8 Meals 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners

Day 9 San Jose - Tortuguero National Park
Enjoy an exciting soft-adventure Jungle Extension to Tortuguero, the Amazon of Costa Rica. Explore the region’s wildlife by boat, viewing macaws, sloths, monkeys, falcons and other native species. Tonight, enjoy a memorable two night stay at your eco-lodge surrounded by the beauty of a tropical forest and amazing wildlife. Learn more about your surroundings with a visit to the world’s first Green Turtle Research Station and discover how to protect the turtle’s nesting habitat and eggs.
Today Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 10 Tortuguero National Park
An early morning bird watching excursion is offered so you may learn about the variety of local species and migratory birds that flock to this area. Later, experience a spectacular boat cruise through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats and caimans, as well as exotic flora. Tortuguero National Park is a study in rainforest, freshwater, and marine biology. It protects over 350 species of birds and mammals including green macaws; 57 species of amphibians; 111 species of reptiles; and 60 mammal species, including 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered species including jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters, and manatees.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 11 Tortuguero National Park - San Jose
Return to San Jose today for your last night in Costa Rica before your return home.
Today Breakfast and Lunch is included.

Day 12 San Jose - Tour Ends

Today Breakfast is included.

Please Note:
• This extension is escorted by a local representative who will provide all included services. Extensions not purchased at time of deposit are subject to availability and applicable charges at time of request. This price includes roundtrip transportation to Tortuguero, 2 nights at the Pachira Lodge or Aninga Lodge, 1 night at the Doubletree Cariari by Hilton in San Jose, and transfers to San Jose.

• Due to luggage size and weight restrictions on the boats, please bring an overnight bag for the two night stay in Tortuguero National Park. Your main luggage stays in San Jose and joins you upon your return to the mainland.