Expedition Details
In the lush jungles of Costa Rica, encounter rare tropical plants, lazy sloths, and brilliant butterflies on an expedition designed for explorers of all ages. Venture into the Monteverde Cloud Forest, explore the coastal jungles of spectacular Manuel Antonio National Park, and meet scientists deep in the rain forest. Participate in conservation efforts by planting a tree in the tropical forest.
Trip Highlights
- Look for brightly colored birds, frogs, monkeys, butterflies, and other animals on nature walks.
- Go white-water rafting or cruise along pristine jungle waterways.
- Be a tropical rain forest scientist for a day at La Selva Biological Station.
- Soar through a cloud forest canopy on a zip line.
- Sail on a catamaran, and go dolphin watching and snorkeling.
Itinerary - 8 Days
Day 1 — U.S./San José, Costa Rica/Braulio Carrillo National Park
Arrive in San José and drive to our lodge, located at the edge of Braulio Carrillo National Park.
Sueño Azul Resort
Day 2 — Braulio Carrillo National Park
Today, choose to spot wildlife and rare birds on a float cruise down the Sarapiquí River, or splash through the jungle on a white-water rafting adventure on the Pacuare River (Class III–IV). The Sarapiquí is perfect for novices and families. Experience gently flowing rapids and long, peaceful stretches as you glide through incredible surroundings in a comfortable, covered boat with a quiet, electric motor. Nature lovers, bird-watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts will especially enjoy the trip through rich vegetation that provides shelter to hummingbirds, toucans, river turtles, monkeys, and caimans. The Pacuare River, known for its lush scenery and rapids, flows through one of Costa Rica's most impressive primary rain forests, home to howler monkeys, sloths, and ocelots. Plunge through the heart of densely vegetated gorges and serene pools. Tonight, gather for a welcome reception.
Sueño Azul Resort (B,L,D)
Day 3 — La Selva Biological Station
Be a scientist for a day, taking part in hands-on activities at La Selva Biological Station—one of the world’s most important tropical rain forest research sites. Enjoy a guided nature walk through the station with local researchers and naturalists.
Sueño Azul Resort (B,L,D)
Day 4 — Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Head for Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve today, home to more than 100 species of mammals and 400 species of birds. On a visit to the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, step into a cloud of bright colors and fluttering wings as you examine 40 species of local butterflies, and other insects. The Monteverde Butterfly Garden also displays a variety of fascinating insects and arachnids local to Monteverde, as well as a live bug cam and a case for viewing butterflies as they emerge from their chrysalides.
Hotel El Sapo Dorado (B,L,D)
Day 5 — Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Go for a morning hike in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where clear streams run through thick jungle and a fresh mist often fills the air. This diverse ecological nature preserve is home to spectacular wildlife, including howler monkeys, Baird’s tapir, and the resplendent quetzal bird. Explore the forest this afternoon in one of two unique ways: stroll through the canopy on suspension bridges, or sail through the treetops on a thrilling zip-line adventure.
Hotel El Sapo Dorado (B,L,D)
Day 6 — Jaco Beach
Travel to Jaco Beach and settle into our hilltop hotel, overlooking the coast. In the afternoon, participate in the conservation and reforestation of the tropical forest by planting a tree, benefiting both the environment and the local community. Thousands of trees are planted here each year to help preserve the habitat for its many species, such as scarlet macaws, toucans, and hummingbirds. If time permits, relax by the pool at the hotel later this afternoon.
Hotel Villa Caletas (B,L,D)
Day 7 — Manuel Antonio National Park
Take a walk in the coastal forests of Manuel Antonio National Park in search of sloths, monkeys, and rare birds. Stop for a swim along the way. Or navigate the park’s islets by sailboat, watching for dolphins and turtles, and snorkel amid its vibrant rock reefs. Tonight, gather for a festive farewell dinner.
Hotel Villa Caletas (B,L,D)
Day 8 — Jaco Beach/San José/U.S.
Drive to San José for your flight home.
(B)
Optional Extensions
- Arenal Volcano Pre-Trip Extension - Pre-Trip Extension, 3 Days
- Arenal Volcano Post-Trip Extension - Post-Trip Extension, 3 Days
Related Trip
View LargerNational Geographic Expert
Taylor Edwards
Conservation Biologist Taylor Edwards is an Assistant Staff Scientist at the University of Arizona's Human Origin’s Genotyping Laboratory where he oversees public testing for National Geographic's Genographic Project (an innovative project where people can trace their ancestry back 60,000 years using DNA). His background is a combination of wildlife ecology and molecular biology and he combines the two in his conservation research. He has also worked in the Department of Mammalogy and Ornithology at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a world-renowned natural history museum dedicated to education and conservation. An aficionado on reptiles and amphibians, Taylor has served as the president of the Tucson Herpetological Society. At home in deserts and rainforests, his research has taken him to China, Brazil, Mexico, Namibia and Cameroon. He has led trips with National Geographic Expeditions to Costa Rica, Panama, and the Galápagos Islands. He is a reptile and amphibian expert, so be prepared to gain a new appreciation of creepy, crawly things!
Taylor will join the following departures:
Jul 31 - Aug 07, 2010 • Aug 07 - 14, 2010Expedition Dates 
2010
- Jul 31 - Aug 07, 2010
- Aug 07 - 14, 2010
- Dec 26, 2010 - Jan 03, 2011
indicates a departure that has a slightly different itinerary than the one shown on this page. Click the icon to see the day-to-day itinerary.
The New Year’s departure is one day longer and includes an additional day at Jaco Beach.
Expedition Costs
The New Year’s departure is one day longer, and has an additional surcharge of $500 per person.
Airfare is not included in the expedition cost. Round-trip economy airfare between Miami and San José is $400 (subject to change).
