Post-Extension to
Carara Biological Reserve
& Manuel Antonio National Park

Days 9/10 - Carara Biological Reserve/Tarcoles River
Drive to the Carara Biological Reserve a living laboratory for scientists and nature enthusiasts and one of the country’s greatest areas of biodiversity.  Cararas is home to several ecosystems such as marshland, secondary and primary forests and a lagoon.  Look for crocodiles and caimans along with wading birds such as Roseate Spoonbills, Anhingas, Jacanas, Pied-billed Grebes and Bare-throated Tiger-Heron.  The beauty of a rare mix of varied tropical vegetation, including the fabulous heliconias,  is heightened by the mammals that call it home, like the coatimundis, peccaries, White-faced capuchin, howler and spider monkeys and the rare-two toed sloth.  Carara is also one of the few nesting areas remaining for the Scarlet Macaw.  At Villa Lapas, indulge in a canopy walk of natural trails and hanging bridges throughout its private reserve rainforest.  VILLA LAPAS HOTEL.  (B,L; B)

Days 11/12/13 - Quepos/Manuel Antonio National Park
Travel to Quepos and your lodge nestled in 180 acres of virgin rainforest, home to coatis, sloth, anteater and iguana. Troupes of an endangered squirrel monkey, also called the ‘titi monkey’ only found in this part of the world, often come out to play in the early morning hours. Enjoy searching for countless tropical birds and rare butterflies. Next day, go to nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s national treasures. Explore the park’s two white sandy beaches, Espadilla Sur and Manuel Antonio – perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Look for dolphins and the odd pod of migratory whales. Numerous short trails meander through the park, passing scenic overlooks and beaches. More than 100 mammals and 180 bird species inhabit the park, including the rare White Ibis. Squirrel monkeys play in the trees above the trails, and in the foliage lurk two-toed sloth, raccoon, white-nosed coati, howler monkey, white-faced capuchin and squirrel. Your last day is at leisure.  Relax, hike, birdwatch or take the Titi Canopy Tour (at additional cost) traveling on suspension cables from platform to platform affording you a bird’s eye-view of primary and secondary forest. This is a lush, moist wonderland where epiphytes grow on every tree and green garden tracts are filled with ferns, flowers and mosses. RANCHO CASA GRANDE.  (B Daily & lunch during park tour)

Days 14/15 - San Jose/Miami
Drive back to San Jose. The rest of your day is at leisure. Reminisce about your memorable journey at a farewell dinner. The next morning, board your flight home. SAN GILDAR HOTEL. (B,D; B)