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Central Pacific
Soft sand in a variety of colors ridged by lush rain forests, the Central Pacific is one of the most popular tourist spots in Costa Rica. Easily accessed from San Jose, the beach towns of Jaco and Manuel Antonio offer a variety of accommodations for every budget. Renowned for its excellent surfing and fun atmosphere, Jaco is a popular spot while the white sand beaches and famous national park at Manuel Antonio have made it one of the most sought-after places for a world-class vacation. Sport fishing here is incredible and adventure seekers can enjoy canopy tours, white water rafting, hiking, horseback riding and sailing. Those seeking a more leisurely holiday will be delighted by luxury accommodations, pampering spas and fine cuisine.
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Where to Stay :
All of the hotels, lodges and villas we work with have met our exacting standards, thus ensuring our clients receive the ultimate in service, comfort and cleanliness while enjoying unique surroundings. |
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Zephyr Palace - Zephyr Palace is located within the grounds of Hotel Villa Caletas on the central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Overlooking the inspiring Gulf of Nicoya, surrounded by rainforest and nestled on top of a hill this spectacular mansion has a truly panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. |
Jaco |
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Villa Caletas - Perched high upon a cliff overlooking the Pacific and surrounding rain forest, Villa Caletas is a stunning fusion of French elegance and exotic locale. Individual 'casitas' are interspersed amongst the verdant gardens covering the hilltop giving guests the ultimate in luxury and privacy.
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Marriott Los Sueños - Recognized by Travel & Leisure magazine readers as one of the "World's Best", the Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort is a luxury Costa Rica resort nestled between the warm waters of the Pacific and a 1,100 acre tropical rainforest. |
Jaco |
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Club del Mar - Just a few minutes down the road from Jaco but a world away, Club del Mar is a small beachside resort featuring well-appointed condominiums for those who seek all the comforts of home in a tropical seaside setting. |
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Hotel Canciones del Mar - Small and distinctive beachfront hotel in Jaco with comfortable rooms and excellent service. |
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Hotel Doce Lunas - This unique eco-friendly hotel lies on five beautiful acres, nestled amongst the foothills of Playa Jaco, and is surrounded by rainforest-covered mountains, and rolling hills. |
Jaco |
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Makanda by the Sea - Discover romance redefined in this intimate, adults-only boutique hotel. Eleven villas and studios nestled in the heart of the rainforest, offer guests incredible ocean and forest views. Outstanding service, an infinity pool and a gourmet restaurant round out this Garden of Eden. |
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Si Como No - Spanish for 'yes, why not', this unique rain forest hotel captures the relaxed spirit of Costa Rica while pampering guests to the fullest.
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Manuel Antonio |
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La Mansion Inn - Noted for providing true VIP treatment to its guests, this ocean-view boutique hotel is 'the' place for Hollywood stars and visiting dignitaries. Each of the 15 rooms is luxuriously appointed and features a balcony with outstanding ocean vistas.
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Tulemar Bungalows and Villas - Luxury spacious bungalows and villas complete with their own private beach. |
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Hotel La Mariposa - La Mariposa charming rooms with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. |
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Hotel Parador - Enthroned atop a majestic bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by 400 acres of lush tropical rainforest, Hotel Parador is located in the most remote and pristine area of Manuel Antonio. |
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Hotel Verde Mar - Beachfront location, just steps away from world renowned Manuel Antonio National Park. |
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Gaia Hotel & Reserve - Located in 14 acres of one of the most beautiful and bio-diverse areas in the world, this intimate resort not only merges into the landscape but creates a theatrical space for luxury living. |
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Hotel Costa Verde - Located on a coastal rainforest bluff overlooking the Pacific beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park near Quepos, Costa Rica, its many amenities make it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure travel or just the tranquility of white sand beaches and magnificent ocean views. |
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Arenas del Mar Resort - A luxurious lodging experience in harmony with nature in a spectacular beach and rainforest setting. |
Manuel Antonio
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Rafiki Safari Lodge Luxury tent camp in the rainforest outside of Manuel Antonio, nestled on 750 acres of pristine jungle along the Savegre River. |
Near Quepos/Manuel Antonio
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Kiana Resort - The 26 beachfront villas, located on the main Dominical beach, sprawl over 5.6 acres of year-round lush tropical landscape |
Dominical |
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Whales & Dolphins Ecolodge - The Whales and Dolphins Ecolodge is dramatically located on a bluff overlooking the South Pacific Coast, the Caño Island and the Ballena Marine National Park, which includes the largest coral reef on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. This wildlife sanctuary protects different species of whales and dolphins together with other marine life, known as one of the most biologically intense places on Earth! |
Dominical |
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What To Do – Jaco Area :
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Monteverde Skywalk (Full Day)
Departure time: 7:00am
Visit the cloud forest atop the Tilaran Mountain Range. The town of Monteverde was founded in the early ‘50s by a group of Quakers who settled there and began producing milk and fine cheeses. Today Monteverde comprises nearly 30,000 hectares of protected areas, including the Children’s Eternal Rainforest, Santa Elena and Monteverde Cloud Forest. Excellent for birdwatchers and for spotting many endemic species. The Sky Walk of suspended bridges in the canopy of the forest is a walk of a lifetime! Includes trained bilingual guides, round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and lunch.
$109 per person (2008) / $120 per person (2009) |
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Manuel Antonio National Park Tour (Full Day)
Departure time: 7:00am
Your bilingual naturalist guide will point out the great diversity of wildlife you might otherwise miss, and will explain the history and geography of the area. Lush tropical jungle surrounding beautiful, pristine beaches is your playground for the day. Within this magnificent landscape, your guide will help you identify some of the more than 260 species of birds and 180 species of mammals that call the park their home. Rejuvenate your body and spirit in the warm waters of the gorgeous secluded beaches. Park is closed on Mondays. Includes bilingual naturalist guide, round trip transportation, entrance fee, lunch and visit to the town of Quepos.
$79 per person (2008) / $89 per person (2009) |
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Carara Biological Reserve
Departure times: 6:30am – 2:30pm
This 4,700 hectare reserve forms an oasis for wildlife from a large surrounding area. Carara offers a rich biodiversity due to its transitional position between the dry northern forest and the humid tropical forests of the south. Carara has fauna and flora from both ecosystems and a virgin forest that covers most of the park. This reserve is known for its abundant birds and also for being one of the last habitats in Costa Rica of the Scarlet Macaw. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, a light breakfast and entrance fees.
$69 per person (2008) / $79 per person (2009) |
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Crocodile Adventure & Birdwatching Tour (1/2 Day)
Departure times: Will depend on ocean tides
Close to Carara is the Tarcoles River, home to a wide variety of birds and crocodiles. A trip down stream will show you the Guacalillo Mangrove, nesting place for the Scarlet Macaw and on both sides of the river bank you will see numerous species of birds such as pelicans, ospreys, frigates and trogons. The crocodiles are spectacular – some measuring up to 23-feet long. Includes bilingual guide and round-trip transportation.
$69 per person (2008) / $79 per person (2009) |
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Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs (Full Day)
Departure time: 7:00am
Arenal lay dormant until July 1968 when an earthquake shook the area and 12 hours later Arenal blew. If you have never seen an active volcano Arenal makes for a spectacular first. This 1,633 meter volcano rises majestically out of the lush pastures and forest on the eastern end of Lake Arenal. Intermittent explosions draw people both day and night. Even when overcast the rumblings, vending and molten lava glowing through the clouds offers a very special experience. You will also enjoy the hot springs with a view of the volcano. Park is closed on Mondays. Includes bilingual naturalist guide, round trip transportation, entrance fees, lunch and dinner, butterfly farm visit and hot springs entrance.
$104 per person (2008) / $125 per person (2009) |
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Whitewater Rafting Tour (Full Day)
Departure time: 7:00am
This exciting and refreshing ride through the Naranjo Canyon, a jewel of Costa Rica, will provide the beauty and thrills you expect in white water rafting. Beginning in the coastal mountain range near Quepos, the Naranjo River has cut a canyon blessed with natural beauty and Class III - IV rapids creating an ideal place for white water rafting. The river banks are overgrown with jungle, the water is as clear as crystal, and the canyon walls meet the water at 90 degree angles. You have to see it to believe it. The water, jungle, canyon, and sky make for an unforgettable day. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, all equipment, breakfast and lunch.
$108 per person (2008) / $120 per person (2009) |
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Canopy Tour (2 ½ Hours)
Departure times: 8:30am – 10:30am - 12:30md
Experience three beautiful waterfalls and the plants and animals of a transitional jungle combined with an exciting ride along steel cables. Includes thirteen platforms regarding from ground level to over 100 feet. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, all equipment, snacks and refreshments.
$75 per person (2008) / $85 per person (2009) |
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Bijagual Waterfall & Horseback Riding Tour
Departure times: 8:00am – 1:00pm
On your way towards the Bijagual Waterfall you will enjoy some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the country. This waterfall is over two hundred meters high and was once used as a landmark for some of the pirates that frequented our coasts. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, all equipment, snacks and refreshments.
$85 per person (2008) / $95 per person (2009) |
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Isla Tortuga (Full Day)
Departure time: 9:00am
This full day trip to Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island) in the Gulf of Nicoya is one of the most popular tours in Costa Rica. You are welcomed on board with refreshments and a seemingly endless supply of tropical fruit is served, as you sail through the scenic Gulf of Nicoya, and then to where blue green waters lap the white sand beach of Tortuga.
Disembark for a day of relaxation, swinmming and beach volleyball.
Sit down to a gourmet picnic buffet served under swaying palm trees, before the mid-afternoon return. Includes refreshments and snacks, lunch, and round-trip transportation.
$109 per person (2008) / $110 per person (2009) |
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Sea Kayaking (Full Day)
Departure times: Will depend on ocean tides
Ocean going outriggers, single and double kayaks, river kayaking and surf kayaking are just a few of the activities that you can enjoy while here on the pacific coast. Paddle through the warm waters enjoying this popular sport, the perfect way to appreciate the wonders of nature and the beautiful coastline. Your guide will also take you to the perfect spot for snorkeling, where you will quickly be surrounded by a wide variety of tropical fish. Includes refreshment, equipment, bilingual guide and round-trip transportation.
$75 per person (2008) / $85 per person (2009) |
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ATV Tour (3 hours)
Departure times: Will depend on ocean tides
They are a unique and fun way to travel around this magnificent country through diverse terrains. Includes equipment, round-trip transportation, and bilingual guide.
$105 per person (2008) / $115 per person (2009) |
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Custom Tours
Interested in other options? Want to visit places on your own schedule? Let us know and we create a custom tour for you with your own bilingual guide/driver for as many hours as you need! |
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What To Do - Manuel Antonio Area:
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Canopy Tour (5 hours)
Departure times: 7:00am – 11:00am – 2:00pm – 5:30pm
2008/2009 -$65 per persoN
A spectacular river with dramatic waterfalls is the backdrop for 17 platforms carefully built in the rainforest canopy. Zip from tree to tree and platform to platform using pulleys on horizontal traverse cables. From the time you leave the ground, until you rappel back down to the forest floor on 3 separate rappel lines, expert guides assist you in this exciting journey and keep you updated on what is going on around you. After this exciting flight through the trees, you will hike a nature trail through the lush rainforest, culminating in a crystal clear pool. There you can take a swim or just relax in the tranquil setting. Includes trained bilingual guides, round-trip transportation, all equipment, snacks and refreshments. |
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Horseback Waterfall Tour (4 hours)
Departure times: 8:00am – 1:00pm
2008 - $60 per person / 2009 - $65 per person
This beautiful half day tour of horseback riding features magnificent ocean vistas, an abundance of colorful birds, and an incredible double waterfall that invites you in for a jungle swim. After picking you up at your hotel, you bilingual guide will take you to the Finca Valmy ranch in the mountains north of Manuel Antonio, where your horses will be waiting for you. Your guide will help you discover the richness of the land and the wildlife as you ride through primary and secondary rainforest; the home of toucans, parrots, beautiful butterflies, and animals of many species. You will enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes in the area. The views of the valley and the surrounding tropical forests are spectacular. Afterward, you will enjoy a home cooked meal in the typical Costa Rican style, served at the Don Gilberto ranch where you can stay and relax in their beautiful swimming pool. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, lunch or dinner, snacks and refreshments. |
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Ocean Kayaking (4 hours)
Departure times: 8:00am – 1:00pm
2008/2009 - $65 per person
A challenging half day journey along the coastline of Manuel Antonio, closely passing islands and islets that are the mating refuges of many species of marine birds. Visit islands to see the nesting grounds of sea birds. Stop and swim at a beautiful hidden bay, and enjoy a delicious lunch on the secluded beach. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, ocean kayak and equipment, refreshments and snacks.
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Mangrove & Damas Island Kayaking (5 hours)
Departure times: Will depend on ocean tides
2008/2009 - $65 per person
This relaxing half-day tour begins just off shore of the Damas Island estuary, about 5 KM south of Quepos. Your guide will pick you up at the hotel and drive you to the launch area where the renowned floating restaurant La Tortuga is docked. As you glide along the fascinating waterways in your covered motor boat, your guide will provide comprehensive information about the complex, self-sustaining mangrove system. White, black, red, and pineapple mangroves are some of the varieties that you will learn to identify. You might also see crocodiles and caimans, tiger crabs, orange and purple land crabs, several species of lizards, and many different species of birds. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, all equipment, lunch, refreshments and snacks. |
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Manuel Antonio National Park Tour (4 hours)
Departure times: 7:00am – 12:00md
2008 - $44 per person / 2009 - $46 per person
Your bilingual naturalist guide will point out the great diversity of wildlife you might otherwise miss, and will explain the history and geography of the area. Lush tropical jungle surrounding beautiful, pristine beaches is your playground for the day. Within this magnificent landscape, your guide will help you identify some of the more than 260 species of birds and 180 species of mammals that call the park their home. Using a telescope, exotic toucans, flocks of parakeets and parrots, and the vivid colors of tanagers and hummingbirds may be found camouflaged in the dense forest. Since your park fee is valid for the rest of the day, you can take your time and relax in this wonderfully alive, yet peaceful place. Rejuvenate your body and spirit in the warm waters of the gorgeous secluded beaches. Park is closed on Mondays. Includes bilingual naturalist guide, round trip transportation, telescope, snacks and refreshments, park entrance fee. |
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Rio Naranjo Whitewater Rafting Tour (1/2 day)
Note: Only runs April-December
Departure times: 8:00am – 1:00pm
2008/2009 - $65 per person
This exciting and refreshing ride through the Naranjo Canyon, a jewel of Costa Rica, will provide the beauty and thrills you expect in white water rafting. Beginning in the coastal mountain range near Quepos, the Naranjo River has cut a canyon blessed with natural beauty and Class III - IV rapids creating an ideal place for white water rafting. The river banks are overgrown with jungle, the water is as clear as crystal, and the canyon walls meet the water at 90 degree angles. You have to see it to believe it. The water, jungle, canyon, and sky make for an unforgettable day. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, all equipment, refreshment and snacks. |
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Rio Savegre Whitewater Rafting Tour (Full day)
Departure time: 8:00am
2008/2009 - $95 per person
Experience the unsurpassed beauty, luxuriant vegetation, and exploding white water on this full day tour for the adventuresome beginner and experienced rafter. You will be astounded by the awesome canyons, waterfalls, and rainforest. River otters can often be spotted along the way. You will stop at a grand waterfall and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared along the riverbank by your guides. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, all equipment, breakfast, snacks and lunch. |
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Mangrove & Damas Island Boat Tour
Departure times: Will depend on ocean tides
2008 - $60 per person / 2009 - $65 per person
This interactive tropical rainforest and delicate mangrove system is highly recommended for any naturalist, young or old, who wants to experience first hand the pulse of the mangrove ecosystem. Experience curious families of monkeys as they migrate across the mangrove ecosystem – which includes your boat – in seach of food and adventure. And discover the secret ways different exotic trees of Costa Rica replenish the environment worldwide, yet sustain themselves for decades of growth. Includes bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, all equipment, snacks and lunch. |
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Catamaran Coastal Cruise (4 hours)
Departure times: 8:00am – 2:00pm (Sunset)
2008/2009 - $80 per person
Your adventure aboard this classic yacht begins as you sail down the scenic coast, past the beautiful beaches and islands of Manuel Antonio National Park. To take advantage of the weather, during the green season this is a morning cruise, and during the dry season it is a sunset cruise. As the boat glides quietly under sail, you will probably see dolphins which frequently swim in the boat's wake. Occasional whales and giant sea turtles are a special thrill, and the abundance of ever present sea birds is enjoyed by even the most experienced wildlife enthusiasts. Snorkel with the abundant marine life in Bisaenz Bay. The professional crew will guide you through this aquatic paradise while attending to your safety and comfort. They will personally serve you plentiful portions of delicious food in the tradition of the great cruise ships, but with a homemade touch. The gourmet desserts are always a special treat. Includes boat transportation, snacks, beer, wine and soft drinks. |
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Custom
Tours
Interested in other options? Want to visit places on your own schedule? Let us know and we create a custom tour for you with your own bilingual guide/driver for as many hours as you need! |
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What To Do Dominical Area:
Note: 2007 Rates unless otherwise indicated |
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Corcovado One Day Tour - $95 per person
The tour begins with a land transfer to Sierpe and then a 90-minute boat ride through one of the largest mangroves in Central America to the Caño Island. The mangroves are inhabited by crocodiles, snakes, four species of monkeys, and a great variety of birds. You will then boat past Drake Bay and the Marenco Biological Reserve, with the possibility of viewing Humpback, Pilot and Killer Whales along the way. At the park a bilingual naturalist guide will lead you on a 3-hour walking tour of pristine primary forest. The hike ends at the Rangers Station with a delicious picnic lunch.
Departure Time: 6:00 am - Return Time: 6:30 pm. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, strap sandals, hiking or sneakers shoes, mosquito repellent, sun block, sunglasses, raincoat or poncho, binoculars, camera, plastic bags, extra water bottle, set of extra clothes, and a towel. |
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Snorkeling and Kayak at Marino Ballena Park – $65 per person
You will launch your kayak at Playa Piñuelas, a short 30-minute drive from Dominical. Aside from exuberant flora and fauna you will also see breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Our bilingual guides will tell you all about the park's history and teach you important safety techniques. An easy 1½ hour paddle will bring you to Ballena Island where a lunch of fruit and cold drinks in tropical style will be provided. You will then snorkel around the island, observing the richest marine fauna in the area. Or, if you prefer, you may choose to simply relax on the island and explore the numerous caves.
Departure Time: 7:30 am - Return Time: 1:30 pm. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, strap sandals, hiking or sneakers shoes, mosquito repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, raincoat or poncho, binoculars, camera, plastic bags, extra water bottle, dry clothes to change into, and a towel. |
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Snorkeling at Caño Island - $95 per person
The tour begins with a land transfer to Sierpe and then a 90-minute boat ride through one of the largest mangroves in Central America to the Caño Island. The mangroves are inhabited by crocodiles, snakes, four species of monkeys, and a great variety of birds. You will then boat past Drake Bay and the Marenco Biological Reserve, with the possibility of viewing Humpback, Pilot and Killer Whales along the way. After arriving at the island you will snorkel for an hour in the crystal clear waters, followed by a tasty picnic lunch. You can choose one of several options for the second part of the trip: 1) Hike up the trails to the archeological cemetery where a professional guide will tell you about the significance of the stone spheres. 2) Another session of great snorkeling or 3) Relax on the beach.
Departure Time: 6:00 am - Return Time: 6:30 pm. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, strap sandals, hiking or sneakers shoes, mosquito repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, raincoat or poncho, binoculars, camera, plastic bags, extra water bottle, set of extra clothes, and a towel. |
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Scuba Diving Caño Island Tour - $130 per person
The tour begins with a land transfer to Sierpe and then a 90-minute boat ride through one of the largest mangroves in Central America to the Caño Island. The mangroves are inhabited by crocodiles, snakes, four species of monkeys, and a great variety of birds. You will then boat past Drake Bay and the Marenco Biological Reserve, with the possibility of viewing Humpback, Pilot and Killer Whales along the way. One you arrive at the diving spots our professional Dive Master will briefly go over with the first dive itinerary and some instructions to make your dive even more enjoyable. After the first dive is done, you will be dropped off on the island for a delicious picnic lunch, than you will be taken for a second dive before returning to your hotel.
Departure Time: 6:00 am - Return Time: 6:30 pm. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, strap sandals, hiking or sneakers shoes, mosquito repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, raincoat or poncho, binoculars, camera, plastic bags, extra water. |
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Whales and Dolphins Tour - $90 per person
The tour begins with a land transfer to Sierpe and then a 90-minute boat ride through one of the largest mangroves in Central America to the Caño Island. The mangroves are inhabited by crocodiles, snakes, four species of monkeys, and a great variety of birds. Once you arrive at the Pacific Ocean you will begin the search for some of the 5 species of dolphins, whales and/or possibly the sea turtles that inhabit these waters. Your guide will illustrate the trip with interesting facts about these fascinating mammals and their natural history. The spectacular views of Drake Bay, Caño Island and Violines Island will amaze you. You will enjoy a delicious picnic lunch and then get back to dolphins and whales watching.
Departure Time: 6:00 am - Return Time: 4:30 pm. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, strap sandals, hiking or sneakers shoes, mosquito repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, raincoat or poncho, binoculars, camera, plastic bags, extra water bottle, dry clothes to change into, and a towel. |
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Crocodile Night Safari Tour - $65 per person
The tour begins with a land transfer to Sierpe and then a 90-minute boat ride through one of the largest mangroves in Central America to the Caño Island. The mangroves are inhabited by crocodiles, snakes, four species of monkeys, and a great variety of birds. Your tour guide will enhance this interesting expedition by teaching you all about the animals, birds, reptiles, plants and trees in this interesting environment. You will enjoy some tasty sandwiches and beverages before returning to your hotel.
Departure Time: 5:00 pm - Return Time: 9:30 pm. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, strap sandals, hiking or sneakers shoes, mosquito repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, raincoat or poncho, binoculars, camera, plastic bags, extra water bottle, set of extra clothes, and a towel. And don’t forget your prescribed medicine if you take any. |
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