Wild Costa Rica // 12 Nights

San Jose, affectionately known to its residents as 'Chepe', lies in the heart of Costa Rica and is home to almost two-thirds of the country’s population. With few buildings over 100 years old, the mountainous capital is relatively modern compared to its Latin American counterparts, but still has a significant amount of culture, art and history for visitors to discover. With a number of theatres full of Costa Rican culture, museums that include the largest collection of American jade in the world, and streets full of bright murals and painted buses, San Jose is an eclectic city waiting to be experienced.

The Pacuare River meanders down the Atlantic slope of the Talamanca mountain range, through the dense rainforest of the Pacuare Protected Zone, until it finally reaches the Caribbean Sea on Costa Rica's central coast. Although the river is primarily known for its challenging rapids and its excellent white water rafting opportunities, it also features some remarkable scenery characterised by lush primordial rainforest, lowland tropical forest, and dramatic towering waterfalls. This pristine natural terrain along the banks of the river provides a haven for a wide variety of wildlife including river otters, jaguars, ocelots, howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, sloths, iguanas, coatis, and raccoons - among many more. Birders will delight in the colorful avian life. Day trips combine rafting adventures with the exploration of waterfalls, hiking trails, and natural springs along the way.

The once-sleepy fishing village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca has become a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its incredible beaches, crystal-clear water, laid-back Caribbean charm and amazing surf. Aside from the spectacular beaches fringing the town itself, two national parks, to the north and south, feature pristine bays and coves where the rainforests tumble down to the waterline. These lush jungles are the natural habitat of a cornucopia of wildlife, including exotic mammals such as the howler monkey and myriad bird species. Snorkelling, surfing, and simply soaking up the sun are the order of the day in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, while the town’s selection of reggae bars provide atmospheric spots to enjoy the evenings in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

An exuberant blanket of dense rainforest encompasses over 77 000 acres on the northeastern coast of Costa Rica at Tortuguero National Park, a biodiverse wonderland and sanctuary for a rich array of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and an astonishing variety of bird species. The park's name, meaning "Land of Turtles," highlights its significance as a nesting ground for several sea turtle species, most notably the endangered green turtles. A network of canals weaves through the lush rainforest, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore by boat or kayak, immersing themselves in the park's unparalleled natural beauty. Pristine beaches, vibrant mangroves, and dense forests make Tortuguero National Park a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservationists, where adventure and ecological wonders intertwine harmoniously.

Located just 2-hours drive northwest of San Jose, the little Costa Rican town of La Fortuna rests at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna provides an excellent base for visitors to explore the beautiful surrounding area, most notably the scenic Arenal Volcano National Park. Photographers will delight in the spectacular views provided by several lookout points along sublime hiking trails, which wind through lush rainforests and past idyllic natural hot springs. The glistening Arenal Lake, which is the largest lake in the country, offers fantastic opportunities to practice water sports. Don’t miss the beautiful La Fortuna waterfall and natural pool. Visitors can also look forward to wildlife tours, coffee plantation tours, and cacao farm tours, as well as an array of excellent restaurants and shops in the town centre.