Tropical Costa Rica

This is a nature reserve located on the central volcanic mountains in northern Costa Rica and contains 26,000 acres of cloud forest, 90% of it virgin forest. Cloud forest is defined as having constant or frequent low-level cloud cover that creates unique humid conditions. A group of Quaker farmers from Alabama bought land here in 1951, moving to Costa Rica to avoid the Korean War draft, and they named it Green Mountain (Monteverde) because it was green all year round. Scientists began to notice how special it was in species diversity in the ‘60s and ‘70s, and the first bits were purchased as a reserve in 1973. There are over 160 kinds of amphibians living here including the golden toad, and many birds including the Resplendant Quetzal.

While in Monteverde, you have the choice between two activities. First you may choose to explore the cloud forest reserve on a guided leisurely paced "Hanging Bridges" tour high above the forest floor and gain a different perspective of the cloud forest's unique ecosystem, its mammals, birds, plants and flora. Your other option is to experience the unique sensation of flying through nature on a zip line! This zip line canopy tour is known as one of the best soft adventures with one of the longest routes in Costa Rica. Not only will you get a great adventure, but you will also have the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Monteverde Hanging Bridges Activity Level: 2 1.9 mile leisurely walk with some stairs required. Also includes entry to butterfly garden. Guests will have two hours for all three activies. Canopy Adventure Activity Level: 4 Takes between 2.5 and 3 hours to complete 13 ziplines of varying lengths. Accredited personnel oversee the entire process. Not recommended for guests with high blood pressure.

Coffee has always been one of Costa Rica’s top exports, grown in the central plateau since the mid 18th century with plants brought from Ethiopia. Costa Rican coffee is very high in caffeine and is considered among the best in the world. You will visit the coffee plants themselves and learn about the cultivation process and then how the beans are roasted and processed.

What an impressive sight – the imposing Arenal Volcano – 7,000 years in the making and reaching over 5,000 feet! This live volcano is currently dormant but was active as recent as 2010. Its most active period began in 1968 and it stayed active until July 2010. Smoke plumes and lava flows were common occurrences for decades. Now, although quiet, it is still just as breathtaking. Rising high over the shores of the peaceful Lake Arenal and surrounded by lush forests, it is simply majestic. The volcano’s underground geothermal activity creates nature’s gift - hot springs. Spend time soaking in the soothing waters while gazing at this extraordinary sight.

This is a wetland refuge in north central Costa Rica created in 1984. The only access to the 25,000 acre area is by boat. The boats are small and most are covered. The refuge is home to several endangered species, including cougars, jaguars, ocelots, tapirs and several kinds of monkey. The Rio Frio runs through the refuge and allows good wildlife viewing. In the dry season (November to April) millions of migratory birds from North and South America spend the winter here.

Lake Arenal is the largest lake in Costa Rica, and was created as part of a hydroelectric project in 1979. The present town of Arenal on the lake is new – the original town is at the bottom of the lake after the enlargement in 1979. The lake is about 30 km long and 5 km wide and is 100 to 200 feet deep. From the lake, there are spectacular views of the volcano and the surrounding forest.