Costa Rican Adventure

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Saturday March 6: San Jose

Depart from the USA. Arrive in the Costa Rican capital of San José, meet your ACIS Tour Manager, and begin to discover the country's famous Tico hospitality.

Day 2, Sunday March 7: San Carlos

Today enjoy a relaxed morning with breakfast before departing for the beautiful province of Alajuela Province. Later in the evening view the Arenal Volcano and swim in the therapeutic waters of the hot springs at it's base. Spend the night in San Carlos, also known as Ciudad Quesada, the agriculture capital of the north. (B,L,D)

Day 3, Monday March 8: San Carlos

Today travel north to Caño Negro and the Río Frío. Comprised of swamp and marshlands, the area covers about 1,977 acres in the wet season. Enjoy a boat trip on the river while you share company with exotic creatures such as osprey, storks, caimans and monkeys, as well as the unique gars, which have lungs, gills and a nose. Lunch will be included today instead of dinner. Return to San Carlos for the evening. (B,L)

Day 4, Tuesday March 9: San Carlos

Enjoy a slow morning and a relaxed breakfast before starting the day. Later, head into the town center of La Fortuna where you can enjoy lunch on your own and explore the local shops and atmosphere. This afternoon, soar above the treetops on a canopy tour, spotting colorful birds and exotic plants from high above the forest floor. (B,D)

Day 5, Wednesday March 10: Guanacaste Coast

Journey to Guanacaste on the northwest side of Costa Rica, an area containing one of the last tropical dry forests on the planet. You'll travel by Arenal Lake. The lake is important for both producing 12% of the country's energy and as a popular destination for windsurfing, kayaking and fishing. In the late afternoon, arrive at your seaside hotel and its pristine white beaches. (B,D)

Day 6, Thursday March 11: Guanacaste Coast

Today explore the Nicoya Peninsula's status as one of the world's very few longevity hotspots known as “Blue Zones”. Enjoy a Global Exchange with a family in this unique region, and learn about how responsible tourism can help connect longevity academics to empirical knowledge, and also connect students to this area's centennial populations, thereby supporting a better future for all. A delicious and authentic “Blue Zone” lunch with the family is sure to be one of the most delicious meals you will have, and a most rewarding visit. Return to your hotel area for a free afternoon on the beach. This coastal region is a wonderful place to learn about how conservation can go hand-in-hand with development projects as you soak up Costa Rica's beautiful sun and surf. (B,D)

Day 7, Friday March 12: Guanacaste Coast

Rest and relax at the beach today or explore more of the region's ecosystem and culture in your own way. (B,D)

Day 8, Saturday March 13: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Further immerse yourself in the culture and wonders of Costa Rica with an extra night in San José, including the services of your ACIS Tour Manager, at the beginning of your tour. (B)