We visit the best of what this country has to offer in just one week. There are active volcanoes that belch lava and clouds of sulphur, lush rainforest that teems with birdlife, remote cloud forest that offers unrivalled wildlife-spotting opportunities and perfect white tropical beaches.

Itinerary:

Day 1, SAN JOSE Arrive and transfer to hotel. Day 2, SAN JOSE - FORTUNA We travel by bus to Fortuna, a small town nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano. (B) Day 3, ARENAL VOLCANO Arenal Volcano is highly active and its cone-shaped peak constantly emits explosions of sulphurous gases, streams of red-hot lava and loud rumbles. We have a full free day. You can explore around the lower slopes of the volcano or soak in one of the hot springs nearby. (B) Day 4, FORTUNA - MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST Head south to the Cloud Forest Reserve of Monteverde, a beautiful park that teems with flora and fauna. Monteverde has gained international renown as one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the tropics. (B) Day 5, MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST A full free day. You can explore the reserve, following trails that wind through the most spectacular sections or trying the spectacular canopy walks. There is abundant wildlife and if you are lucky you might see the beautiful quetzal as well as a variety of monkeys, wild cats and reptiles. (B) Day 6, MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST - MANUEL ANTONIO NP Drive to Manuel Antonio National Park, where we spend two nights. This park features some of Costa Rica's finest beaches, with long stretches of beautiful white sand backed by lush jungle. (B) Day 7, MANUEL ANTONIO A full free day to relax on the beach or follow hiking trails through the tropical forest. (B) Day 8, MANUEL ANTONIO - SAN JOSE After a relaxing morning we travel back to San Jose. (B) Day 9, SAN JOSE - Tour ends. (B)

Group Size: Max 15
Activities: Hiking in National Parks
Accommodation: 8 nights tourist class hotels and lodges
Transport: Bus
Airport Transfer: To hotel day 1
Fully Escorted: By Imaginative Traveller tour leader days 2-9, services of representatives in San Jose
Meals: As per itinerary. B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
Trip Reference: LTAC