The essentials of Costa Rica

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  San José, welcome to Costa Rica.

  

  FIRST STEPS IN COSTA RICA The biodiversity of Costa Rica is unique in the world. Through various activities, your Autenteo stay is designed to help you discover vast national parks, white sand beaches, and majestic volcanoes. Shall we take you there? HOTEL IN SAN JOSÉ: Airport - Hotel transfer 30 min Our partner hotel is an establishment that offers comfortable rooms so you can have a good night's sleep and start your trip off right. Upon your arrival, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the property's wooded park and swimming pool to relax after your flight.

• day 2

  Tárcoles, an aquatic safari

  CROCODILES OF TÁRCOLES: Hotel - Tárcoles trip 1h30 (activity included in the price) Early departure towards Tárcoles, where you will be taken on a water safari to discover the crocodiles that inhabit the nearby river. During this mini-cruise, your guide will explain the lifestyle and characteristics of these impressive reptiles. Bird lovers will also be delighted, as many species can be observed here as well. RELAXATION AT THE BEACH: Tárcoles - Beach trip 30min After this experience, I recommend going to the small Limoncito beach, which is often deserted. To get there, you need to walk 20 minutes along a beach and then over rocks. If you have your mask and snorkel, you can observe the seabed of this magnificent place. UVITA ECOLODGE: Beach - Ecolodge trip 2h15 Exchange and sharing are the key words of this establishment in Uvita. Set in a lush garden, this ecolodge offers charming wooden chalets, decorated with great charm. This place is ideal for recharging in the midst of Costa Rica's flora.

• day 3

  Puerto Jimenez, the underwater wonders

  

  DOLPHIN WATCHING: Lodge - Dolphins trip 2h20 (activity included in the price) A local fisherman will take you on his boat for a private outing in search of dolphins and humpback whales. Although they often like to show themselves, I cannot guarantee their presence, as I have chosen to take you to meet animals that are not fed by humans! You can then get in the water and observe fish of a thousand and one colors. BIOLUMINESCENCE: On site (activity included in the price) Bioluminescence is a luminous phenomenon produced by marine microorganisms. Costa Rica is one of the few places where it is possible to observe it. We will go for a night swim and you will see the ocean sparkle before your eyes. LODGE PUERTO JIMENEZ: Bioluminescence - Lodge trip 10 min This small establishment, located on the edge of the Pacific, will welcome you in well-kept and comfortable lodges. You can relax in the pool before enjoying the flower garden where many birds come. The owners will keep your suitcases during your expedition in Corcovado National Park.

• day 4

  Corcovado, the treasure of Costa Rica

  

  DIRECTION CORCOVADO: Lodge - Dock transfer 15 min (activity included in the price) In the early morning, you will board towards Corcovado National Park for a sea outing that will allow you to observe a completely unspoiled coastline. You may have the chance to see dolphins playing in the boat's wake or even be lucky enough to admire the impressive jumps of humpback whales. CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK: On site (activity included in the price) Corcovado is considered the best national park in Costa Rica for wildlife observation. You will set off to explore the trails; some animals may approach out of curiosity, but certainly not to beg for food. Indeed, to avoid altering their behavior, this practice is strictly forbidden in the park. BIOLOGICAL STATION: On site You will be accommodated at the biological station. The comfort is quite basic, but ideal for a total connection with nature in a unique setting. This will be an opportunity to share dinner with the rangers and discuss their passion, which has become their profession.

• day 5

  Corcovado, animal watching

  

  MORNING WALK: On site (activity included in the price) If you enjoy walking, you can take a beautiful 22 km hike to leave the park. Accompanied by your private guide, you will observe animals different from those seen the day before. You will surely have the opportunity to spot monkeys, anteaters, or even tapirs who have made themselves at home in this park like nowhere else in the country. It would be exceptional to spot a jaguar, but I prefer to warn you that, unfortunately, your chances are slim. If you do not wish to take this long walk, you can, as on the way in, make the journey by boat. AFTER THE EFFORT, THE REWARD!: Lodge - Beach trip 20 min At the end of this walk, you will be amazed to have discovered this place out of time, in the middle of one of the largest tropical forests in the world. A driver will come to pick you up to take you to your accommodation in Puerto Jimenez. The afternoon will be an opportunity to rest while admiring the beauty of the landscape from the region's beaches. LODGE PUERTO JIMENEZ: On site You will find the comfort of your accommodation from the first night in Puerto Jimenez. If you wish to wash some clothes, you can leave them at the reception and collect them the next day. The owners will be happy to advise you on activities to do nearby.

• day 6

  Nauyaca, the majestic waterfall

  ON THE WAY TO NAUYACA: Lodge - Nauyaca journey 3h (activity included in the price) Today, you will set off to discover the Nauyaca waterfalls. To get there, you will take an 8 km walk (round trip) through a splendid tropical forest, a chance to enjoy nature in peace. Be sure to prepare your picnic, as you won't find any restaurants. WATERFALLS IN THE HEART OF THE JUNGLE: On site (activity included in the price) After this effort, you will discover the majestic Nauyaca waterfalls! Believe me, their 80 meters width and 45 meters height will not leave you indifferent. I recommend a refreshing swim in one of the waterfall's pools. LODGE TURRIALBA: Nauyaca - Lodge journey 4h You will be welcomed by a Costa Rican family in a comfortable house with a zen atmosphere. You can enjoy their beautiful flower garden and, above all, chat with them in French, since your hosts have lived several years in France. It's a bit like joining friends at the end of the world!

• day 7

  Cahuita, heading to the Caribbean.

  

  RELAXED ATMOSPHERE: Lodge - Caribbean trip 3h You will head towards the Caribbean! It feels like being in another country, as the culture is so contrasting: music, climates, and the mix of locals make it a land of diversity. You can enjoy the comfort of the hotel and its pool, go on an adventure along the trails, or indulge yourself on the warm sandy beach. CAHUITA NATIONAL PARK: On site In a breathtaking setting, between land and sea, you will be able to observe many animals. It is common to spot sloths, monkeys, and several species of snakes. It is worth knowing that the national park is managed by a community whose members have managed to preserve its beauty. PUERTO VIEJO LODGE: Cahuita - Lodge trip 20min Amidst tropical vegetation and close to the Caribbean Sea, you will find well-kept rooms in the local style, which are suitable for ecotourism. With a tropical garden and a pool, this hotel is ideal for relaxing and unwinding.

• day 8

  BriBri Community, an authentic experience

  TOWARDS THE COMMUNITY: Lodge - Bribri route 30 min (activity included in the price) You will leave for an Amerindian reserve aboard a small traditional motorized canoe. I really like this boat trip, you will feel immersed in the heart of the forest. At your hosts', there are no fake activities like welcome dances or flower necklace ceremonies. I absolutely wanted to avoid that! CACAO AND CHOCOLATE: On site (activity included in the price) You can visit the territory and enjoy a swim in the river waters. The community will teach you a lot about cacao, a commodity they have been cultivating and working with for many years. In fact, their ancestors even used it as a means of exchange. You can also try your hand at its transformation. Personally, I always love tasting their 100% natural spread! AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY: On site Our hosts offer the chance to enjoy nature while learning about their culture and language, between walks in the heart of the rainforest and chocolate tastings. For the night, you can choose between the comfort of a room or the adventure of a tent, depending on your preference.

• day 9

  Tortuguero, the Amazon of Costa Rica

  

  GOODBYE TO THE BRIBRI: On site This getaway will have allowed you to spend time with endearing people in order to understand their true way of life, their traditions, and their history. You will leave by motorized canoe to retrieve your vehicle and head towards Tortuguero. You will reach the Pavona dock where your boat will be waiting to take you to your hotel. DOWNTOWN TORTUGUERO: Bribri - Tortuguero journey 3h45 As you stroll through the streets, you can soak up the atmosphere of Tortuguero: music, climate, and the mix of locals make it a land of diversity. You can then enjoy the warm sandy beach or go discover the turtle museum, which I find very informative. TORTUGUERO LODGE: Downtown - Lodge 10 min This charming establishment is located in the heart of Tortuguero, ideal for strolling in the city center without having to take a boat taxi. You should know that swimming in the sea is prohibited due to strong currents; you will therefore appreciate being able to cool off by the pool at your lodge.

• day 10

  Tortuguero, the diversity of the canals

  

  DISCOVERY OF THE CANALS: Lodge - canals route 10 min (activity included in the price) This morning, your private guide will show you the beauty of the Tortuguero canals. It is aboard your private rowboat that you will discover the many species that inhabit the banks. I have chosen this type of boat because it allows you to access areas inaccessible by motorboat and to approach the animals without frightening them.

• day 11

  Arenal Volcano, discovery of a mastodon

  

  ANT ORGANIZATION: On site (activity included in the price) You will then go to a place that I am passionate about and that I am eager to introduce to my travelers. After years of research, Léo has managed to recreate three natural anthills. For an hour, he will explain the social system of ants, talk to you about their organization, and reveal all their secrets. ARENAL DISCOVERY: Ants - Arenal trip 1h30 (activity included in the price) This afternoon, you will discover nature from another perspective. You will go for a walk on the hanging bridges to observe the different species that inhabit this forest. If you are afraid of heights, know that there are alternative trails to avoid the highest bridges. At the exit, you can take the time to sit and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Arenal volcano. GUANACASTE LODGE: Arenal - Lodge trip 3h After a few days in Costa Rica, you will appreciate spending two nights in this family-run establishment managed by French owners. When I visit them, it is a real pleasure to relax in their pool, which has one of the most beautiful views of the bay. It is the ideal place to admire the sunset!

• day 12

  Rincón de la Vieja, the volcanic formations

  

  WALK AND RELAXATION: Lodge - Rincón de la Vieja journey 1h40 (activity included in the price) You will go to discover the Rincón de la Vieja park, which for me is the most interesting volcano in Costa Rica. There are different trails ranging from one to eight hours of walking. You can choose which one to take depending on your physical condition and your desires for the day. Throughout your walk, you will be able to observe volcanic formations, such as boiling waters or fumaroles. LLANOS DE CORTES: Rincón de la Vieja - Llanos de Cortes journey 1h15 (activity included in the price) Llanos de Cortes is another relaxation stop. I suggest you take the time to swim in the waters of this waterfall. To get there, you will need to walk for 20 minutes on a trail surrounded by lush vegetation. LODGE GUANACASTE: Llanos de Cortes - Lodge journey 1h15 You will enjoy spending a second night in this accommodation, which is the cozy cocoon everyone needs to recharge. If you are a fan of the seabed, know that there are many beaches nearby that are renowned for snorkeling.

• day 13

  Gulf of Papagayo, secluded beaches

  

  IRRESISTIBLE PAPAGAYO: Lodge - Papagayo trip 50min For me, it is in the Gulf of Papagayo that you find the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. The beauty of the landscape amazes me every time I visit. The beaches are located within a private property, I will give you all the necessary information to access them. THE PRESERVED BEACHES: On site A shuttle will be at your disposal to help you discover the 4 beaches of the property. The first one is just a few meters from where the driver will drop you off. To reach the more preserved beaches, you will need to walk for about 30 minutes. HOTEL SAN JOSÉ: Papagayo - Hotel trip 4h For your last night in Costa Rica, you will return to the comfort of your accommodation from the first day. It will be an opportunity to relax in the pool while remembering all the wonderful adventures experienced during these 2 weeks exploring this beautiful country.

• day 14

  San José, visit of the capital

  

  FREE VISIT OF SAN JOSÉ: Hotel - Downtown route 20 min For this last day in Costa Rica, you will set out to discover San José. You can stroll through the downtown area, shop at the Mercado Central while soaking up its atmosphere. If you like museums, I recommend the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. MERCADO CENTRAL Located near the cathedral, the Mercado Central is Costa Rica's authentic market. With more than two hundred stands of fruits, meats, or fish, it is the best place to discover or rediscover the country's culinary specialties. Coffee beans, cigars, cocoa, handicrafts: you will find all kinds of local products there. HEAD FULL OF MEMORIES After 2 weeks of wonder between breathtaking landscapes and touching encounters, it is time to return. You will head to the airport to catch your flight to Paris. You will return home with your head full of beautiful images and a new vision of the world.