Multi Sport
Pacific Coast Costa Rica: (IT-CRCXMS01)
URL: http://www.hiddentrails.com/tour/costa_rica_mulit_sport.aspx
Introduction
Pacific Coast
Costa Rica
Canoeing - Hiking - Horseback Riding
Canopy Tours - Kayaking - Rapelling - and ATV!
Adventure and amusement abound in the brilliance of the Costa Rican rainforest!
Renowned for its eco-tourism and exceptional bio diversity, Costa Rica is truly a jewel of the Americas. Upon arrival, you will have a two hour drive through the lush, emerald green Braulio Carillo National Park enroute to the first hacienda, a wonderfully unique eco-accommodation experience! Get up the next morning and be ready to have some fun - the Class II & III rapids of the Sarapiqui River eagerly await! If you aren't up to fending off the chaos of the white waters, there is more relaxing version just for you - alternative float tours for the more laid-back among us will let you enjoy the river in peace. Whichever route you select, the river promises to provide you with a beautiful array of exotic flora and fauna.
The week ahead brings many options for adventure lovers. Ride the spirited and well trained horses of the region and explore the surrounding rainforest, immersed in the abundant birdlife and exquisite butterflies of the area. Horseback riding will be offered throughout the week, with trails leading to the breath-taking Fortuna Waterfalls or the beaches of Manuel Antonio. If horses aren't your forte do not worry, so many other adventures await in the natural beauty that is Costa Rica.
The excitment of "rapelling" certainly may be the answer to your thrill seeking! Descend 90-feet down the river canyon walls on your own, after taking instruction with a professional. Safely harnessed in, from these heights you will have a spectacualar and unique view of the special point at which the Sarapiqui River and the Pozo Azul River meet. A moment to remember!
For some well deserved relaxation, you can indulge yourself in the Eco Thermales Hot Springs when we transfer to your next accommodations, nestled at the base of the impressive and active Arenal Volcano, a fascinating natural wonder. Choose to hike the volcano and discover its stunning lava formations whilst on the Las Coladas Trail or join the enthralling Canopy Tour at 250-feet above ground. Twelve cabled platforms high in the treetops will help you get up close and personal with the resident monkeys, sloths and birdlife of the forest as never before! The adventure continues on, with opportunity aplenty out of lively Jaco Beach - try your hand at outrigger canoeing or sea kayaking, off-road ATV touring or the Waterfall Canopy Tour. The ATV tour will take you through rare teak plantations and allow you brilliant views of the ocean and the rugged mountain vistas while getting a pure andreneline rush. The canoe excursion alternatively will take you on a more relaxing day to secluded beaches on the coastline, away from Jaco's hustle and bustle and when weather permits, you can experience terrific snorkling in the crystal clear waters.
Onto your final destination, a lovely villa on the doorstep of the Manuel Antonio National Park, a favorite of eco-tourists and outdoor lovers. Here you can kayak through the smooth, inland waterways of the Damas Island Estuary and explore the unusual mangrove eco-system, a very delicate and vital habitat for the Costa Rican wildlife. Mangroves thrive where fresh water and salt water meet, creating submerged tropical forests with aerial roots. Alternatively, tour the Manuel Antonio National Park, the smallest national park of the country, but one of its most bio-diverse, established in 1972 to preserve the stunning beauty for generations to come. Within the park, visit the unique Cathedral Point, once an island off the coast, it is now connected to the mainland by a tombolo, a naturally occuring thin strip of land.
Costa Rica has endless options for adventure and between each, important time to unwind with a drink and enjoy the alluring sounds of the magical rainforest. There is no room for boredom, but plenty of time for relaxation, when you take on this activity packed week in a country renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. We welcome you to join the fun and excitement, tailor the activities to suit your needs and have the time of your life!
Accomodation
You will be accommodated in a Deluxe Tent Lodge, Hotels and Resorts that generally have a bar, restaurant, swimming pool or jacuzzi, and green areas/ garden. They are equipped with fans or A/C, hot water supply, laundry, and some also feature a telephone, television and hairdryers. Credit cards are widely accepted to pay for any extras.
Meals are included as per itinerary.
HACIENDA POZO AZUL TENT SUITES
Imagine sleeping to the harmonious lullaby of the jungle´s night rounds, waking up to the Congo`s greet and the bird`s song, in an ambiance of comfort, privacy and immersed in nature. This is what you will live at Hacienda Pozo Azul Tent suites!
Hacienda Pozo Azul Tent Suites is not a 5 star Hotel it´s more than that, it is a magical experience that combines nature with comfort, the rugged with the modern, relaxation with excitement. Here you will be able to let the nature and its forest absorbs you, sleep a canvas away from 4% of the world biodiversity, your main door will be a zipper and your windows will be screens, and your enjoyment will be complete."
30 Tent Suites equipped with 2 queen size beds or 1 king size bed, comfortable private bathrooms with hot water and a furnish private deck; telephone and WIFI on all suites and fans both in the rooms and decks.
MAGIC MOUNTAIN HOTEL - Arenal
Hotel Magic Mountain is located at the base of the Arenal Volcano and near to the local hot springs. The hotel offers a new vision in accommodation services, base on the quality service and with the only objective of a full satisfaction of our clients that makes us different. All rooms have either a balcony or terrace with a view of Arenal Volcano. Guests will enjoy the attention to detail while in your rooms, as well as throughout the rest of our Hotel complex.
Internet service is available in the hotel lobby. For those who travel with their "laptop" computers, internet access is available via wireless connections.
VILLAS LIRIO
The secluded hotel is decorated
with fine furnishings and unique art created by local artists. This
uniquely designed residence has an open, modern kitchen, dining room,
step down living area and entertainment area, conveniently located
beside the pool and the gardens. Whatever room you are in you can see
the large swimming pool, stone deck and tropical gardens all right next
to the house. The property is protected by stone walls and can only be
entered through a private gate. The area boasts excellent restaurants
where you can find just about any kind of cuisine. Arrive early and get
a good seat, because the sunsets are phenomenal. Native tropical plants
adorn the lobby and patio areas, creating an inviting, relaxing
atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. A delicious tropical breakfast is served in the morning.
Riding
You will ride beautiful Criollo Horses, using modified McClellan Tack.
The Criollo horse is the direct descendant of the horses brought to the Americas by the Spanish. The Criollo is a medium sized horse (1.40m - 1.50m).
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Costa Rica
You will be met at the airport and transfer immediately to Sarapiqui in the northern Caribbean lowlands. The drive from the airport takes about two hours passing through Braulio Carillo National Park. Overnight Hacienda Pozo Azul Tent Suites.
Day 2: Whitewater Rafting / Sarapiqui River
The Sarapiqui River is one of the most pristine rivers in Costa Rica. Fight through Class II & III whitewater rapids, paddling 12-km through a magnificent forest setting with an array of tropical birds and other exotic wildlife (Children under 9 can not do rafting.) The remainder of the day is free to enjoy the amenities of the resort or to do an optional activity. Overnight Hacienda Pozo Azul Tent Suites.(BL).
If you are not into white water rafting, you may choose to do a Canopy tour or a floating tour at the calmer section of the Sarapiqui River. Horseback riding or biking (min of 4) may also be an option on request.
Day 3: Horseback Riding or Rapelling / Hot Springs
After breakfast enjoy a horseback ride through a primary rain forest surrounding the resort. The resort owners have been breading horses for their own use for tree generations, using the spirited, soft riding Costa Rican Paso horses and the strong and Spanish Andalusian horses, and lately quarter horses.
Alternatively you can participate in "Rapelling".
Rappelling (descending on ropes)
The Raplelling at is an experience to remember forever! Descending
with safety ropes and equipment a 90 feet wall on the Sarapiquí river
canyon with a spectacular view of the confluence of the Sarapiquí and
Pozo Azul Rivers.
Includes: • Lesson of basics and safety instructions. •
Every rappel is assisted by two guides, one managing the safety line
and a second one belaying the main line to assure 100% safety.
• For your first descend we offer a guide next to you doing coaching.
(optional). • You may repeat the rappel up to tree times. • First
class equipment and trained guides.
• Fruits and water We also offer to do rappel on other locations of
our Hacienda if requested such as free fall on a canopy platform.
Minimum age: 12 years old.
Afternoon:
After the morning activity we transfer to the Arenal Volcano area.
You spend the late afternoon and evening at the Eco Thermales Hot Springs. You have free time to enjoy the hot springs. Dinner is included - the food is excellent. There is a set menu with your choice of either beef of chicken. There is also rice, refried beans, corn tortillas, and a salad with fresh avocado. The drinks are also very reasonably priced. Overnight at Magic Mountain (BLD).
Day 4: Lake Arenal - hike, ride or canopy tour
Choice of one included tour: Arenal Volcano Hike, Horseback riding to Fortuna Falls, Canopy Tour, Suspended bridges...overnight Magic Mountain (B)
Hike: The Arenal Volcano starts with a drive to the active north-western side of the volcano. Once there you will start on a hike through Las Coladas Trail which crosses the rain forest and goes over a large lava flow from 1992. It is possible to observe a great variety of plants, wildlife, and magnificent lava formations.
Horseback Riding: This is a good combination of horseback and hiking in a beautiful scenario. Experience is not needed in this tour, trained horses will take you to the entrance of the waterfall through private farms, forest and hills, where you will have spectacular views. When you get to the entrance of the waterfalls, we will leave the horses and start to descend to the river. This is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the forest and wildlife while you swim in the crystalline waters of the river.
Canopy Tour: This adrenaline experience begins with a short walk to the first platform where our guides will meticulously check all the equipment. The feeling of flying through tree tops is really unique. This canopy tour is considered to be one of the best canopies in the country. Its 12 platforms, over 1000 foot long cables and heights averaging 250 feet make it an unforgettable adventure. This cable trip will enable you to admire the beautiful surroundings and watch monkeys, birds and sloths. From the highest platform and cable you will be able to see two beautiful waterfalls. This canopy tour is for everyone, no matter your age and all you need is an adventurous spirit. Towards the end of your trip you will fly over the Arenal River down to the last platform.
Day 5: Outrigger Canoeing, ATV or Waterfalls Canopy Tour
Transfer to the Manuel Antonio on the Pacific side with a stop at Jaco Beach with one included tour: Outtriger canoeing or kayaking, Waterfall canopy tour or ATV tour ...overnight Villas Lirio...(B)
Outrigger Canoeing: You will discover why the outrigger canoe is the perfect craft to take out your family or group on a wonderful outing to beautiful secluded beaches to swim and snorkel (snorkeling only when conditions permit) in clear calm waters and see the Costa Rica that you came to see. They are incredibly stable, comfortable and easy to paddle. T They are made for a fun, “no experience necessary”.
ATV Tour: Capture extraordinary ocean views, tropical rain forest panoramas, and rugged mountain vistas as you drive through rustic trails and rare teak plantations – all in the jungles north of Jacó. Our experienced, professional, bilingual guides will lead you through the exotic, primary rain forest just a short ATV drive from our world-famous Jacó Beach and Los Sueños Marina. The fully-equipped semi-automatic ATV’s are perfect all-terrain vehicles for our guests to best experience Costa Rica’s natural treasures in an extreme, adrenaline-kicking setting that is pure adventure. After your muddy, fun-filled, high-octane ride, indulge yourselves with a refreshing swim in our natural pool with an amazing waterfall – all year long.
Canopy Tour: Much of the Canopy's 46 hectares of protected area is covered with transitional rainforest growing on steep slopes, and studded massive trees laden with vines and epiphytes. The Canopy Tour consists of 13 platforms, 7 cables of different sizes, 3 storey Tree House, Tarzan Swing, a suspension bridge and a 90 feet rappel at the end.
The tour starts with putting on your harness, these are professional mountain climbing harnesses. Then we do a short walk in, I will explain you about the area you are in, and the flora and fauna you will encounter on the trails. Since a part of the forest has been used for agroforestry, a wide variety of exotic fruit trees and hardwood trees can be found.
Day 6: Kayaking or Forest Horseback
Choice of one included tour: Damas Island Mangrove kayaking, coastal paddle, or horseback riding at Finca Valmey. Overnight Villas Lirio (BL)
Kayaking: Paddle through the smooth inland waterways of the Damas Island Estuary, one of the most unusual types of vegetation on the planet, and learn the importance of this delicate ecosystem. Mangroves thrive where the salt waters of the ocean meet the fresh waters of tropical rivers creating a periodically submerged forest of interlacing aerial roots
Horseback: We take you on an elaborate tour where you will see the most unforgettable views surrounded by lush vegetation, primary and secondary forest. The observation of birds and animals in the area is a fundamental part of the journey. Leaving from the stables and ending at the waterfalls, the tour is lead by experienced trilingual guides. After we enter into the forest and observe the different marvels of beautiful scenery, we arrive at the river. Once there we start a new endeavor under the forces of nature. On the river the return trip is more interesting, the horses take you around the river through lush vegetation, where you pass butterflies, like the traditional blue Morpho, many varieties of birds and Marlin fish, occasionally, around the river you can see Raccoons walking around, as well as other types of four legged creatures. This adventure starts half way through the hike when we get to the waterfalls, part of the Valmy property, where you can enjoy a snack at the ranch beside the waterfall in privacy. Here, one can bathe in the lagoon and waterfall, or simply sit and rest while listening to the relaxing sounds of the waterfall as it cascades into the small lagoon below.
Day 7: Manuel Antonio or Beach Ride
Choice of one included tour: Manuel Antonio Park hike, Canopy Tour or Beach horseback riding...overnight Villas Liria..(B)
Manuel Antonio Park:
With the establishment of ManuelAntonio National Park in 1972, the
people of Costa Rica decided to preserve, for future generations, one
of the most beautiful and bio-diverse areas in the world. Although it
is the country's smallest national park, the stunning beauty and
diversity of wildlife in its 683 hectares is unequaled. Visiting the
park, one is treated to an abundant diversity of wildlife. Cathedral
Point, with its forest topped cliffs was once an island, but is now
connected to the coast by a thin strip of island. This land bridge now
forms the spine separating the parks two most popular beaches, Playa
Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio.
Horseback on the Beach:
The world famous Manuel Antonio beaches, let Don Gilberto and his family show you the real Costa Rica – on horseback. experience Costa Rica’s unique flora and fauna, it’s rare medicinal herbs, it’s breathtaking landscapes, exotic and savory Tico style treats, and a beautiful, highly-educated family of guides and naturalists who will take you on a journey in history and adventure on an unforgettable horseback expedition.
The ride includes several hours (2-3) of riding through special trails with stunning vistas and scenery, and include well-earned stops to savor and enjoy the tastes, flavors and multi-sensory experiences of this beautiful land. As eco-stewards and community leaders if the Quepos / Manuel Antonio area, let Don Gilberto, his daughter Dyala, and their family host you on an unforgettable and uniquely experience.
Day 8: Departure
Transfer to the San Jose airport for your departure flight out of Costa Rica (B)
Subject to changes
B=Breakfast L=Lunch D=Dinner
Rates and Dates for Multi Sport
Rates include:
Airport Transfers, all transportation within Costa Rica, 7 nights lodging, breakfast daily, all equipment needed for activities, services of professional guides.
Packages and Options
| A | 2009 | 8 day trip, multi sport | $1545 |
| Single supplement | $435 |
| Triple room during tour | ($270) |
| C | 2009 | 8 day trip, (Peak) multi sport | $1635 |
| Single room supplement | $580 |
| Small group supplement (1 only) | $525 |
| Child Rate | $645 |
Tour Dates
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| A |
2009
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10/03
- 10/10
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8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, multi sport
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2
/12
|
Expired
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| A |
2009
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11/20
- 11/27
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, multi sport
|
2
/12
|
Expired
|
| C |
2009
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12/12
- 12/19
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, (Peak) multi spo...
|
2
/12
|
Reserve
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|
Dates Note:
January 9 to 16, 2010 is confirmed.
Additional departure dates are available for private departures. This trip can be booked any time throughout the year. There is no minimum number of participants.
Rates do not include:
International Airfare, all items of a personal nature, breakfast, lunch or dinner on Day 1. No lunch & dinner on Days 2-8, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, Costa Rica departure tax, additional activites each day
Other Info
Meeting: San Jose
Airport: San Jose, Costa Rica
Transfer: San Jose Airport or hotel in early afternoon
Climate: Rainy season runs from the beginning of May through the middle of November. However in the last part of June and the month of July, the rains usually ease up and the weather is pleasant. Please keep in mind that even when it rains, it is sunny in the mornings until around mid afternoon. None of the rides are over difficult terrain so it does not matter if the trails are wet. Remember this is the tropics so it is never really cold. Only in the higher elevations, San Jose, the volcanoes, and Monteverde, temperatures are cool.
What To Bring: You should bring light weight, but heavy-duty clothes that will allow you to go into the forest with the greatest protection and comfort. Remember that you will probably get wet at some point, either by rain (you can not have rain forests without rain!) or by walking up river beds. Cotton clothing is best, avoid synthetics that trap body heat and moisture, bring T-shirts, blue jeans or long cotton pants, light natural fabric jacket, sweater, athletic shoes, boots, bathing suit and cotton shorts. If you have your own hiking boots, or other specialized equipment, such as binoculars, magnifying glass, Swiss army knife, etc., bring them along. No luggage limit as all transfers are by land.
The tone here is casual wear - it is not necessary to dress up to go to dinner. Comfortable lightweight is best. In the higher elevations, San Jose, the volcanoes, or Monteverde, temperatures are cool and sweaters or light jackets are suggested.
We provide rubber boots (we ask for shoe sizes and height and weight of each rider) and good strong rain ponchos and saddle bags with water and snacks. If you prefer to bring riding boots be sure to have them waterproofed. Also note that riding in heavy jeans is very hot so it is recommended you bring riding pants or lightweight pants to ride in. We recommend for women to ride in leggings with a big shirt over them. The legging is not too hot, and they dry out quickly if they get wet.
Pack lightly!!
SENSIBLE PRECAUTIONS.... Almost all encounters with noxious insects & plants can be avoided by watching where you walk and sit, by not touching non-recognizable insects, plants, etc; by tucking pants in your socks, by using an insect repellent, by spraying shoes and ankles to avoid bites, by always following tour guide's instructions to the letter, and finally, avoid using perfumes, after-shave, or other scents that will attract insects. Please leave your valuables at home.
Most important of all to bring to Costa Rica: "Sense of adventure, open mind and big smile"
| ... this list is only a guideline for you |
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| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport and copy of passport kept in a separate location |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!) |
| Riding boots + Minichaps |
| Riding helmet (recommended for all trips) |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat or visor |
| Rain coat/Wax jacket |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Sweater for higher elevations and chilly nights in San Jose |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjama |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Wind breaker or light jacket |
| Comfortable walking shoes like lightweight hiking boots with a good tread for hikes |
| River sandals or aqua socks |
| Swimsuit and beach towel |
| Bandana |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Day pack and fanny pack |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect repellent, at least 75% DEET |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for the emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Camera and enough extra films (it is expensive in Costa Rica) |
| Belt pack |
| Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!) |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun tan lotion with high sun protection factor, such as SPF 29-40 |
| Binoculars |
| Flashlight |
| Water bottle |
| Battery alarm clock |
| Plastic bags - for keeping books, binoculars and other items dry, and for wet clothing |
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