Pura vida, welcome to Costa Rica. Get settled in at your hotel and start exploring on your own.

Start the day with a brief sightseeing tour of San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital city. Head north and stop in Sarchí, a quaint little town known as the cradle of Costa Rican artisanship. The town is perhaps most widely recognised for its colorful and decorative oxcarts that have been made here for over a century. There's time to browse the beautifully intricate arts, crafts and souvenirs. Continue ascending the Tilaran Mountain range and watch as the landscape changes before your eyes as you enter the stunning Cloud Forest area.

This morning, join your Local Specialist as you explore The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. This world-renowned forest contains a variety of different types of ecosystems. Learn about the thousands of plants and animal species, many of which are endemic to the area—over 400 species of birds alone, including 30 species of hummingbirds. See howler monkeys, sloths, toucans and possibly the resplendent Quetzal bird. Discover unique flora, including orchids, bromeliads and strangler figs, adding to this forest's already impressive beauty. This afternoon, relax or partake in optional activities. This evening, you may want to transfer into town for dinner at a local restaurant.

Today, take in the wonderful vistas of coffee plantations and cattle ranches as you make your way toward Lake Arenal and Arenal Volcano National Park. Arrive at your beautiful resort for a relaxing three night stay. Surrounded by Costa Rica's most richly diverse ecosystems, your secluded resort features spectacular views overlooking the San Carlos River. Enjoy outdoor pools, a botanical and butterfly garden and abundant wildlife, including tame iguanas roaming around the property. Dinner is included this evening at the resort.

Rise and shine for an early guided hike through Mirador 1968. This private reserve, located next to Arenal Volcano National Park, is named in honor of the volcano's greatest eruption which changed the panorama of this region. As you walk along the lava trails, you'll see evidence of the volcanic activity in the area and its effect. Continue to the town of La Fortuna and enjoy some time to browse. This afternoon, head toward the famous Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Here, “sky walk” with your Local Specialist across suspension bridges and through tree canopies, giving you a close up view of life in the canopy. This evening, visit a hot springs resort where you'll be able to enjoy and relax in the mineral hot pools coming directly from the volcano.

This morning, enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest and experience its peacefulness—on a safari float trip down the Peñas Blancas River. Appreciate the wonders of the Peñas Blancas River and the surrounding rainforest and farm lands as you glide silently taking photos of monkeys, sloths, iguanas, caimans and numerous tropical birds. Your Local Specialist will share with you educational and interesting explanations about the plants and animals that call the jungle home. Along the way, visit a farming family who live on the river, untouched by modern conveniences. Return to the resort in time for lunch, followed by a horseback ride through the rainforest. The rest of the day is at leisure to pursue your own interests. Swim, play tennis, stroll through the botanical and butterfly gardens or partake in optional activities such as ziplining, white water rafting adventures or perhaps a massage at the spa. This evening, get together with your fellow travelers for dinner.

Transfer back to San Jose International Airport or extend your vacation to Guanacaste.