Itinerary Include flights Expand all London to London Day 1 Fly to San Jose. Those on group flights will arrive in the evening and be transferred from the airport to the hotel. Land Only clients should aim to arrive at the hotel this afternoon/evening. This evening is the perfect opportunity to meet your guide and get to know your fellow travellers. Accommodation: Park Inn Hotel or similarComfortable Hotel Day 2 To Tortuguero N.P.; short coastal walk. Our adventure begins early this morning, leaving San Jose behind as we travel to the north-east of Costa Rica to Tortuguero National Park. Accessible only by boat or light aircraft, Tortuguero's vast network of waterways, canals and swamps is remarkably tranquil, unspoilt and devoid of noise pollution. On reaching the pier we board a small motorboat for the one hour fifteen minute journey to our lodge. This afternoon we visit Tortuguero village (which lies on a thin strip of land between the sea and the main canal) and take a short walk following a pathway parallel to the coastline. Tortuguero is probably most famous as a nesting site for the endangered Green turtle, which can be seen arriving onto the beach to lay eggs from late July to October (as part of an optional excursion). Hawksbill, Loggerhead and Giant Leatherback turtles also nest in this region, and during November to January baby turtles start to hatch and make their way towards the ocean. Today's travel time will be in the region of six hours including a break for breakfast. Total walking distance: 6km. Time: approx. 3 hours. Accommodation: Laguna Lodge (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 3 Boat tour of Tortuguero; kayak the waterways. An early morning boat trip enables us to discover the extraordinary flora and fauna of Tortuguero, passing serenely along the waterways. At this time of day wildlife is usually at its most active and with the help of our expert guide we are likely to encounter monkeys, caiman, iguanas, butterflies and many of the 300+ bird species recorded here. We return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast by the river. Then we take a kayaking tour through the jungle lagoons to have a different perspective on the forest, navigating the streams, canals and rivers. Alternatively the lodge is a tranquil spot to relax if you want to take some time out to enjoy the facilities this afternoon, or there is an nice walk available within Tortuguero National Park. Accommodation: Laguna Lodge (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 4 Fly to San Jose. El Toro Waterfall walk; to La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano. We leave Tortuguero this morning, taking a short internal flight back to San Jose to reduce today's travel time. Our bus will be waiting to drive us to the region of La Fortuna, passing huge banana, pineapple and sugar cane plantations. On the way we stop for a short walk in the area of Bajos del Toro, where the highest and most impressive waterfall of the country is located. Our walking trail takes us all the way to the bottom of the waterfall, which empties at a height of 90 metres into an old extinct volcanic crater. There are several fantastic viewpoints on the first 500 metres of the trail, which is generally flat and surrounded by forest. Over 27 species of hummingbird have been recorded here! The second part of the trail is steep, following concrete steps with hand railings which lead all the way to the base of the waterfall, where the striking rock formations and colours will leave you in awe. We continue our journey to Arenal, reaching the Arenal Volcano National Park. Following a massive eruption in 1968, Arenal was Costa Rica's most active volcano until recently when it entered a resting phase. As well as the volcano, this region has much to offer, including thermal waters, waterfalls and dense vegetation. Total walking distance: 2km. Time: approx. 1.5 hours. Accommodation: Arenal Montechiari (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Day 5 Platanar Volcano hike; optional visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs Today we travel to the province of Alajuela in the central valley where the Juan Castro Blanco National Park is located. Known as the "Parque del Agua" (the park of the water), this national park protects mid-elevation wet forest and high altitude cloud forest on the slopes of three extinct volcano peaks - these are Porvenir (2,267 metres), Platanar (2,183 metres) and Viejo (2,060 metres). Our hike focuses on reaching the summit of Platanar Volcano, a spectacular hike through the varying forest climates as well as panoramic views (weather permitting) at some of the highest points. This is a full day hike along a one-way trail, so after reaching the highest lookout point we'll re-trace our steps. On our return it's possible to detour to a small waterfall where swimming is permitted if you feel like a refreshing dip! Many of the streams born here feed the San Carlos River whose waters are used in the plains. Lunch today will be taken with a local family. After today's hike we return to Arenal and there is the option to visit Ecotermales Hot Springs to relax any aching muscles. Total walking distance: 9.5 km. Time: approx. 6 hours. Accommodation: Arenal Montechiari (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Day 6 Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall walks; to Tenorio. There is a short guided hike this morning through Arenal Volcano National Park. The park has a great system of trails passing through secondary forest and near lava fields created by previous eruptions. The high vantage points on this walk allow great views overlooking Lake Arenal, and the birdlife is plentiful. Waterfalls are abundant in the region of Arenal and we also visit La Fortuna Waterfall, a 65 metre cascade of water plunging into an emerald pool below. A short trail through the rainforest brings us to a relatively steep set of steps that we must descend to reach the waterfall and then ascend to the exit - the hike/climb takes around 20-30 minutes. Reward your efforts with a dip into one of the natural pools punctuating the foliage to cool off! After our lunch stop, we have a short transfer to the region of Tenorio, where we stay for the next two nights. Total walking distance: 6km. Time: approx. 3 hours.Accommodation: Celeste Mountain Lodge (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 7 Walk along Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park. After breakfast we travel to the Tenorio Volcano National Park where we join a hiking trail along the Rio Celeste towards 'Tenideros'. After merging with a small creak this section of the river takes on a striking blue turquoise colour, the result of components such as copper and sulphur reacting together. There is a legend that says the colour was created when God washed his paintbrushes in the river after painting the sky. It's a beautiful trail, leading towards the magnificent Rio Celeste Waterfall. This afternoon we return to our hotel and have the afternoon at leisure to rest and enjoy the hotel facilities. Total walking distance: 4km. Time: approx. 3 hours. Accommodation: Celeste Mountain Lodge (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Dinner Day 8 Walk from Miravalles Volcano to Aguas Claras with views of Rincon de la Vieja N.P. We depart early towards the area of Rincon de la Vieja, an area that combines dry forest with enchanting waterfalls and is best known for its bubbling mud pots, steaming vents in the earth, hot springs and a whole host of wildlife. The starting point of our walk will be close to the Miravalles Volcano, from which we walk towards Aguas Claras town along a gravel road. Taking in pasturelands and patches of secondary forest, we have great views of the tropical savannah and the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. At the end of today's walk we continue by bus to our hotel, which we should arrive at later this afternoon. Total walking distance: 14 km. Time: approx. 6.5 hours. Accommodation: Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 9 Follow walking trails to the 'cauldrons' and waterfall in Rincon de la Vieja N.P. Covering some 14,804 hectares, Rincon de la Vieja National Park is full of geological features and has the active Rincon de la Vieja Volcano (1895m) within its boundaries, as well as a series of other craters and volcanic peaks. This region is still relatively undiscovered but is starting to attract more visitors. This morning we walk inside the national park, widely regarded as one of Costa Rica's hidden gems. We have a one and a half hour hike through the park along a pre-defined trail, the highlight of which is likely to be our visit to Las Pailas, the bubbling mud pools that flank the volcanic crater. Steaming fumaroles and hot springs are also found in park, attesting to how active the volcano is! This afternoon we take La Cangreja Waterfall trail walking through tropical forest and Guanacaste savannah. If we are lucky we may see Howler monkeys, White-faced Capuchin monkeys or any of the 257 species of birds present here. The waterfall is spectacular, plunging 40 metres and forming a clear blue pool at its base as a result of the dissolved copper minerals from the volcano. Total walking distance: 13 km. Time: approx. 6.5 hours. Accommodation: Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 10 Hike on trails surrounding Hacienda Guachipelin; to Samara beach on the Pacific coast. Today's hike takes place on trails within the grounds of Hacienda Guachipelin, located in the sunny Guanacaste province next to the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. On this expansive 3,400 acre ranch there are 360° views of the Rincón de la Vieja and Santa Maria volcanoes, the Guanacaste plains and the Pacific coastline. On our hike we'll discover three waterfalls: Oropendula, the Choreras and Victoria Waterfall. The Victoria Waterfall drops 35 metres into the Rio Negro and you can swim in the crystal clear pool surrounding the waterfalls base. The pretty trails wind through dry tropical forest where some 300 bird species reside, alongside armadillos, collared peccaries, iguanas, snakes, coatis, and White-faced, Howler and Spider monkeys, which we may see if we are lucky. After today's hike we transfer around 2.5 hours to the Pacific coast and Samara beach, our home for the next two nights. Total walking distance: 15km. Time: approx. 4.5 hours. Accommodation: Samara Beach Hotel (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 11 Free day to enjoy Samara beach or sign up for an optional activity. Samara beach is one of the best kept secrets in Costa Rica! The broad, shady bay stretches for 4 km and is backed by coconut palms. The water is calm and safe for swimming thanks to a coral reef just out to sea on which the normally large, Pacific waves break before reaching the beach. There are plenty of facilities in Samara but there's a noticeable absense of big resort hotels, which makes for a nice atmosphere. Today has been left free for you to spend at your leisure. Spend time relaxing on the beach or join one of the optional excursions available in the area such as a boat tour to see dolphins, kayaking tour or SUP (stand-up paddle boarding). Accommodation: Samara Beach Hotel (or similar)Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 12 Free morning at Samara; to San Jose. This morning is free to enjoy Samara beach before we leave the Nicoya peninsula and transfer back to San Jose, a journey of approximately 4.5 hours. Accommodation: Park Inn Hotel or similarComfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 13 Depart San Jose. The trip comes to an end today after breakfast and it's time to bid Costa Rica and the rest of the group goodbye. Those on the group flights will be transferred back to the airport, whilst land only clients are free to make their own arrangements. Meals included: Breakfast Day 14 Arrive London. Those on the group flights arrive back into London today.
Costa Rica Holders of British, US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and most EU passports can enter Costa Rica for a stay of 90 days without a visa. Proof of onward travel may be required when entering Costa Rica - we suggest you take a print out of your flight details in case officials ask to see them. All passengers flying via the USA will have to clear immigration during transit. Prior to travel you must apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (USD14) under the Visa Waiver Programme. Please see here for more information. The same applies to travel via Canada which also requires an Electronic Travel Authority. If you are not a UK citizen please check with your local U.S. Embassy.
Costa Rica There are no mandatory vaccination requirements, however, if you have travelled to a country at risk of Yellow Fever prior to arriving in Costa Rica you will be required to have a valid Yellow Fever Certificate with you. Recommended vaccinations are: Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, we therefore strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Hotels & lodges 12 nights in comfortable hotels and eco-lodges, all with en suite facilities. In San Jose the Park Inn Hotel is conveniently located for the downtown area of the city, with spacious and comfortable rooms. At Tortuguero, we usually stay at Laguna Lodge - a property set in beautifully kept gardens where wildlife often roams freely (look out for sloths and monkeys here!). In Arenal the Arenal Montechiari Hotel is located within a 10 minute walk of La Fortuna town. Each chalet bungalow is set amidst the tropical gardens where hummingbirds like to gather, and there are wonderful views of the Arenal Volcano. The Celeste Mountain Lodge near Tenorio is a unique property surrounded by primary rainforest with impressive views thanks to its elevation. In Rincon de la Vieja the Hacienda Guachipelin has wonderful surroundings of dry tropical forest with trails to discover the area nearby. At Samara, the family run Samara Beach Hotel is located just off the main street, a short walk to the beautiful Pacific Coast. Please note that one or several of the named properties might be substituted for similar alternatives in order to secure hotel availablity. Please discuss with your Customer Operations Executive if you require more details regarding your specific departure date.
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Reviewed March 2019 Barbara Williamson Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Cost Rica Coast to Cost The holiday provided a good insight into the diversity of the country. The visits to the national parks gave the opportunity to observe the natural environment and wild life first hand. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The visit to the Tourtuguero National park. The opportunity to see a sloth at close quarters and experience equatorial rain. What did you think of your group leader? Both group leaders were very knowledgeable about their country and the different environments we visited. They were proud and always willing to answer questions on any subject appertaining their country. The were excellent at spotting, pointing out and talking about the flora fauna. While on the walking itinerary they either took us on a route march or ambled along wasting time or cutting walks short. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? If you the main purpose for this holiday is the walking aspect give it serious consideration before you book as the majority of the walks fell well below my expectations. Is there anything else you would like to add? When I was booking this holiday, and it was advertised in your walking and trekking brochure I carefully considered the walking aspect and was consequently disappointed with many of the walks that were on offer. The Platanar Volcanic hike was ended before reaching the panoramic view although we had done most of the had climb. Walk from Miravalles along an unsurfaced road was as a route march which was also cut short. The most disappointing walk for me was on the last walking day 10 on trails around the Hacienda. It became evident from the start that the guide was wasting time as we were late starting and there was indecision about the route. The walk was given as a 9.3mile lasting 4.5 hours in the trip notes and after 4 hours we had only covered 5 miles. When I made my feelings felt to the guide he did suggest that we could do another 2 hours but as this coincided with the hottest part of the day and we had already wasted 4hours ambling along it was not really feasible. He then offered to take us for a walk on the beach when we arrived at Samara beach. Well the fact is I can do a beach walk any time on my own anywhere in the world and I would not pay for a guided holiday to do it. Reply from Exodus Reply from Exodus We were sorry to hear of Barbara’s disappointment with the walks chosen as part of this holiday. As a lot of the walks are focused on the flora and fauna of the area, guides are keen to point out what can be seen on the way, and this can mean that distances take longer to cover depending on sightings. The overall fitness of the group and weather can often have an impact too. As we always have two guides on this trip, we are reviewing how the walks are managed to potentially enable different abilities to walk at different paces, which we anticipate will prevent this being an issue going forward. Vicky Boughton - Product Manager for Costa Rica
Reviewed February 2019 James Hall Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Walking in Costa Rica We really enjoyed this holiday. All arrangements worked smoothly. Katia and Eduardo our guides were excellent. The walking and opportunities to view wildlife were all as expected and we saw some great things. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Seeing marine turtles in the water around us as we were SUPing at Samara. Kayaking in Totuguero was a close second. What did you think of your group leader? Very good indeed. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Good walking shoes essential. Remember that there are laundry options at a few places en route so you can pack light. Is there anything else you would like to add? The walking was enhanced by being in a group that got on well together. Accommodation very good - but two of the lodges asked guests to wear wrist bands - would have preferred not to.
Reviewed June 2018 John Arthur Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Costa Rica Coast to Coast For a walking trip the routes were very disappointing. Only one whole day and a half day walk were interesting. The rest were quite simply , boring! The trip started well but deteriorated as the journey continued. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The kayaking in Tortaguero and the zip lining. What did you think of your group leader? Experienced, but had his own issues and agenda - could and should have been much better. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? If you are looking for good walking then this is maybe not the trip for you. Is there anything else you would like to add? Not our best Exodus Trip Reply from Exodus Reply from Exodus We would like to thank John for his feedback. We are, however, sorry to learn of his disappointment with some of the routes on this tour, as every effort is made to include activities and excursions that are consistent with the overall trip style and nature of the destinations we visit, allowing our clients to get the most out of their time on holiday. Whilst we are of the understanding that dry weather and volcanic activity affected opportunities to spot wildlife, and that one of the trails was unexpectedly closed by the local authorities for maintenance, we have nonetheless reviewed this trip to look into ways the walks can be improved. Vicky Boughton – Product Manager for Costa Rica
Reviewed April 2018 Ikuko Shiratori Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Do thorough research before you decide As a first time visitor, the holiday was a good introduction opportunity. But I’d have to be careful who to recommend it. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Tortuguero NP. The most specutacular part of the holiday. What did you think of your group leader? Our main leader was a superb leader. His warm caring personality really helped the team get on. His expert knowledge of birds was also very impressive. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? This holiday felt like a geography trip, which is fine as long as you have a realistic expectation. There was one walk which was so unpopular we thought why we were doing this walk. Generally I am glad I could see things I wouldn’t have if I’d chosen places myself. Is there anything else you would like to add? In Hacienda hotel we had a broken shower in our room. Reported twice no action was taken. Bad management. The sandwich lunch at the same hotel was also terrible. Huge but bland. I don’t think anyone liked it. One thing I realised is that Costa Rica is so expensive you can buy only so much for £3500!
Reviewed March 2018 Barry Smith Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Overall a very good walk and travel through Costa Rica's diverse countryside The choice of places to visit on this trip was excellent and showed off the variety of climatic conditions, scenery, flora & fauna, and people that Costa Rica has to offer. The two knowledgeable guides informed us about Costa Rica's past history and right up to modern conditions found here. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? No one moment. Just walking and travelling through Costa Rica's diverse countryside. What did you think of your group leader? We had two guides, Katia & Carlos. Both of whom were excellent with their people skills as well as there job as guides. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? This trip consists of walking up to 10 miles in 30 deg.C heat. Make sure you are fit enough to do this and you will enjoy the trip. You can get hot sun then rain, so lots of sun screen and a lightweight waterproof jacket. Is there anything else you would like to add? Advice to Exodus - You use United Airlines. They are not a very good airline for long haul flights. The transfer in Houston through US immigration & security is tedious. On the return journey the flight out of San Jose was delayed by 1 1/2 hrs, which only left 1/2 hr for me to rush through US procedures. I just made the connecting flight but my luggage didn't, causing me some worry at Heath Row. My luggage was eventually delivered to my home 3 days later.
Reviewed May 2017 Marilyn Boyce Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast An amazing country This is a wonderful trip with so much wildlife to see and hear! . What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Like the other reviews, kayaking in Tortuguera was my favourite part. It's one of those 'good for the soul' things where you feel at one with nature. Seeing a troop of monkeys crashing through the trees with a baby in tow was very special. What did you think of your group leader? Pedro and Katia were excellent and attentive guides. Both are keen birdwatchers with a keen eye and encyclopedic knowledge. Pedro often organized an extra early-morning stroll to maximize our bird-spotting. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Don't underestimate how draining the humidity and heat can be. A couple of the walks are on open rolling hills and the duration meant we were out at midday so take heaps of water. A camel pack is easer than water bottles. Is there anything else you would like to add? This really was an excellent trip and the accommodation far surpassed my expectations.
Reviewed March 2017 Mary Mckean Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Costa Rica Coast to Coast A fantastic experience with a great group of people. Loved most activities , especially seeing all the wild life while kayaking in Tortuguero Natioal Park. Climbing Cerro Chato was a challenge due to humidity, but very self - satisfying to have reached the summit. As a break from the hiking, getting a chance to do canopying and horseback riding, for me, was a must - do activity while in Costa Rica. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Kayaking in Tortuguero, watching beautiful birds flitting from branch to branch, seeing three species of monkeys clinging from branches (some moms with babies on their back), being woken by the howl of the howler monkeys, climbing a volcano, walking in the rain and cloud forests to waterfalls and turquoise ponds, admiring the beautiful fauna, relaxing at beautiful lodges. I could go on and on. What did you think of your group leader? Pedro was fantastic- very knowledgeable about all flora and fauna and passionate about his country. Great personality. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Take lots of sunscreen, a water bottle, a hat, insect repellant and expect to be challenged. Is there anything else you would like to add? Costa Rica is a beautiful country with amazing wildlife. A must see!S
Reviewed March 2017 Cheryl Mulholland Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Costa Rica Coast to Coast If you are from the northern hemisphere this is a trip that verify the wonderful pictures one sees of the tropics.. Also, it will introduce you to the unknown -- for me -- a cashew tree or a pineapple plant growing. All very exciting. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Early Morning (6-8AM) boat tour at Tortuguera. We saw so much wild life & vegetation. What a wonderful start to our tour. Also at Tortuguera being educated about the green turtles was wonderful. What did you think of your group leader? Friendly, helpful, engaging, knowledgeable. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Big hats or umbrellas -- breathable clothing -- good sunscreen. If you do not regularly walk hills -- train before you do this tour. Is there anything else you would like to add? Try to get early start to your activities to avoid the mid day heat (as much as possible).
Reviewed March 2017 Philip Arthur Trip: Costa Rica Coast to Coast Costa Rica Coast to Coast A brilliant 12 days, with a feast of wildlife, walking, and relaxing in the company of our very convivial group of 7 plus excellent guide. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The start of the trip in Tortuguero..including the river journey to get there. The place is a real feast of new and exotic birds and animals; it set the bar really high for the rest of the trip. What did you think of your group leader? Pedro..he was really excellent. He had an encyclopaedic knowledge of all the plants, birds and animals, not to mention his country and it's history and geography. He also had a terrific sense of humour. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Make sure you take plenty of water on walks. Very hot and humid. Is there anything else you would like to add? Do go! An unmissable feast of wildlife.
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