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Horseback riding tours
Rides in Costa Rica
Intro to Costa Rica
Caribbean Coast Guanacaste Pacific Coast
Extensions:
Hotel Capitan Suizo
Belize
Mexico
Honduras
Dom.Republic
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Kaleidoscope Ride - Volcanoes and Paramo
Pacific Coast
Costa Rica
Ride through some of Costa Rica’s most diverse and scenic areas. Explore volcanoes, Paramo, highland cloud forest, picturesque valleys, rainforest jungles, river crossings, rugged terrain, and experience what every rider has always dreamed of… galloping on the beach! Here is the chance to experience the diversity of Costa Rica with the help of our four-legged friends…THE HORSES!
Our first ride will take us to Volcan Turrialba Lodge, which lies in the valley between Irazú and Turrialba Volcanoes. The whole area, abundant in natural beauty, is virtually unexplored. On the way, we’ll be able to see Turrialba Volcano’s western face, where recent activity has occurred. From here we will work our way to the top of the volcano to enjoy spectacular views from the lookout point 3,300 meters above. On a clear day, breathtaking views of the Caribbean Cost line, Guarco and Central Valley, even the Golf of Nicoya and the Pacific Coast Line, can easily be seen. Then we will be heading out from the mountains, taking the narrow trail called El Tapajo to Santa Cruz, well known for being home to the famous “Queso Turrialba”. We then transfer to the Valley of Copey de Dota, within the Los Santos Forest Reserve at the foothills of Las Voltas Biological Reserve. An amazing ride across the Paramo Las Vueltas with its unique climate - mist, fog, and sudden temperature changes, which promotes the growth of the unique flora, and gives the area a mythical feel. Along the trail you’ll sight shrub like plants, dwarfed and twisted trees, and abundant grass species, all characteristic of the paramo. We then descend from the highlands through beautiful forests to the warmer region of the coastal area. This ride is truly a spectacular trek starting at coffee farms, with panoramic mountain views along a colonial trail all the way to the Quepos Area.
The next day we ride to incredible waterfalls - nowhere else in Costa Rica will you find waterfalls of this magnitude.
Finally we get to the beach by wandering in and out of jungle trails. This is rough terrain but amazing at the same time. We’re sure to see wildlife along the way. Once reaching Matapola, we can relax and swim in the ocean as well as take a lunch break. After your are revitilized from lunch, take a ride on the long beach where there is room for fast paced riding and plenty of surf to gallop in!
We then descend to the famous surfing town of Jaco beach. via the old Hermosa Mountain road. The views and flora and fauna are breathtaking. There will be more beach riding as well before our adventure comes to an end.
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Meeting:
San Jose
Airport:
San Jose
Transfer:
San Jose Airport or Hotel in the early afternoon
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Rates and Dates for 2009
Rates include:
Airport Transfers, all transportation within Costa Rica, 9 nights lodging, meals as indicated, all equipment needed for horse trekking, services of professional equestrian naturalist guides with 4 or more riders…local guides with 2-3 riders
| A | 2009 | 10 day trip | 10d / 9n | $2750 |
Departure day: You will get back into San Jose around noon.
Tour Dates
Check here for details and availability
| A |
2009
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06/26
- 07/05
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10d / 9n
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4
/10
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Expired
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Reserve
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| A |
2009
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11/27
- 12/06
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10d / 9n
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4
/10
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Available
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Reserve
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| A |
2010
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01/29
- 02/07
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10d / 9n
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4
/10
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Available
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Reserve
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| A |
2010
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02/12
- 02/21
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10d / 9n
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4
/10
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Available
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
International Airfare, all items of a personal nature, breakfast, lunch or dinner on Day 1… lunch or dinner on days 8 & 10 … dinner on Day 9 , alcoholic beverages, gratuities, Costa Rica departure tax
Day 1 Arrival in Costa Rica
Arrive in Costa Rica's capital city of San Jose. After a greeting at the airport by a specialized equestrian natural history guide, transfer to the accommodations for the first night and the start of your riding adventure. A briefing gives riders a chance to get acquainted with their guide and fellow travelers. Overnight Hotel Villa Tournon or similar. No meals included this day.
Day 2: Turrialba Volcano/ Old Lava Flow Trails
This morning our support van will transfer everyone to Casa Blanca in the Turrialba Volcano area. At Casa Blanca, the horses will be saddled and waiting for you. From here we’ll be riding to Volcan Turrialba Lodge, which lies in the valley between Irazú and Turrialba Volcanoes. The lodge itself is in the foothills of Turrialba, only 5 kilometers from the crater of this dormant giant. The whole area is one of great natural beauty and is virtually unexplored. Ranging from 4,500 to 10,000 feet above sea level, it encompasses several ecological zones including tropical rainforest, cloud forest and the paramo. Hot Lunch will be waiting at the lodge. After Lunch, we jump back in the saddle. This time we head to the old lava flow trails. On the way, we’ll be able to see Turrialba Volcano’s western part, were the recent volcanic activity has taken place. After, we decent down into the deep forest, observing the many species of flora and fauna typical of the cloud forest. There are outstanding views of Braulio Carrillo National Park, the Northern Plains of Sarapiqui and Guapiles on our ride. Making a perfect loop we return to the lodge. Dinner and overnight Volcan Turrialba Lodge (BLD) Total riding time 5 plus hours.
Day 3: Summit of Turrialba Volcano
After a hearty breakfast, the horses will be saddled and ready to start the journey up to the summit of Turrialba Volcano. We take the only trail to the top of the 3,300 meter giant to take in the spectacular view from the top of the Volcano. On a clear day, you can see the Caribbean Cost line, Guarco Valley, and Central Valley, and even as far the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Coast Line. Turrialba Volcano, is one of the few places in the country were such vistas can be observed all at once! Return back to the lodge for a nice hot lunch and relax the rest of the day, perhaps go for a swim in the indoor heated pool. You might want to check out the dairy and sheep farm, and other agriculture attractions of the lodge. Overnight Volcan Turrialba Lodge (BLD) Total riding time 4-5 hours.
Day 4: Santa Cruz / Copey de Dota
After a full Costa Rican mountain style breakfast, the horses will be ready to go again. Today we’ll be working our way out from the mountains, taking the single-track trail knowing as El Tapajo. As we head towards Santa Cruz on the east side of Turrialba Volcano, we pass dairy farms, unexplored trails, as well as primary forest. Once in Santa Cruz, well known for being the home of the famous “Queso Turrialba”, we stop and taste this wonderful, fresh farmer’s cheese, with a homemade tortilla and a nice mug of hot coffee at one of the little restaurants in town. We say good-bye to the horses and hop in the support van to be transfered to the Valley of Copey de Dota. The Valley of Copey de Dota is within the Los Santos Forest Reserve at the foothills of Las Voltas Biological Reserve. After lunch there will be time to relax. Later in the afternoon, we’ll take a short drive down the valley into coffee country to a real coffee mill processing the world famous Tarrazu coffee. You get the chance to visit the co-op "CoopeTarrazu" which has been gathering and processing this special coffee for export since 1960. Overnight at El Toucanet Lodge. (BLD) Total riding time 4 plus hours.
Day 5: Paramo Las Vueltas
Another amazing ride to the Paramo Las Vueltas which rises to over 10,000 feet. Here the vegetation is defined by the climate. Mist, fog, gusty winds, and sudden temperature changes, promote the growth of the unique flora as well as create a mystical atmosphere. Along the trail you’ll sight shrub like plants, dwarfed and twisted trees, and abundant grass species, all characteristic of the paramo. When the sky is clear, the brilliant mix of colorful flowers on the paramo shine brightly against a green backdrop. Overnight El Toucanet Lodge (BLD) Total riding time 6 hours.
Day 6: Highland Coffee Farms to the Coast
Today descend from the highland region of Terrazzo, through beautiful forests, and down to the warmer region of the coastal area. This ride is truly a spectacular trek starting at coffee farms, with panoramic mountain views along a colonial trail all the way to the Quepos Area. Enjoy this full day ride with lunch en route. Reach Paquita River and meet the support van that will transfer everyone to the beach area of Dominical. Overnight at Villa Rio Mar. Breakfast and lunch included this day. (BL) Total riding time 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Cataratas Nauyaca
The majestic waterfalls we are visiting today are in a lush tropical rainforest; one of the southern regions main attractions. This is ecotourism at its best. Here you meet the family of Don Lulo, have breakfast at their home and ride to the incredible waterfalls that can only be accessed through their property. Nowhere else in Costa Rica will you find waterfalls of this magnitude. You will also cherish the hospitality of the family that runs this operation. Overnight Villas Rio Mar, breakfast and lunch included (BL) Total riding time 4 hours.
Day 8: Southern beach ride to Matapalo
This morning we meet up with the horses at the entrance to Hacienda Baru. From here we'll be riding along the beach and in and out of jungle trails. This is rough terrain but equally amazing. We’re sure to see wildlife along the way. Once reaching Matapola, we can relax, swim in the ocean, and take a lunch break. There will be areas were the pace is fast. This is a long stretch of beach where you can run with your horse in the surf. We will continue on to the drop off place, where we leave our horses. A support van will be waiting to transfer us to the Timirai Bamboo Beach Resort in the Jaco Beach area. Overnight Timirai Bamboo Beach Resort. (BL) Total riding time 5 plus hours.
Day 9. Mountain Vistas Overlooking the Pacific Ocean
From the stables, amble through the picturesque mountains surrounding Hermosa, amazing views are reveled to you around every corner, this is true Costa Rica back country. Descend to the famous surfing town of Jaco beach via the old Hermosa Mountain road. The views and flora and fauna are breathtaking. There will be more beach riding included with a lunch break then ride back along different route to the stables. Transfer to Timirai Bamboo Beach Resort for the overnight (BL) Total riding time 5 plus hours.
Day 10: Back to the Real World
Sadly we say good-bye to Costa Rica.
Transfer to the International Airport. Depart Costa Rica. (B)
subject to change
B=Breakfast L=Lunch D=Dinner

Meeting:
San Jose
Airport:
San Jose
Transfer:
San Jose Airport or Hotel in the early afternoon
Departure day: You will get back into San Jose around noon.
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Tack:
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Costa Rican saddles
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Horses:
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Criollos, Pasos
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Pace:
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Moderate with trots, canters, and some gallops. 4-6 hrs per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
out of 5) Good Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
10
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
210
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Riders:
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Min
4
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Max
10
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Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least 30 days after arrival or for the length of stay, whichever is greater. Passport Note(a) Nationals listed above must obtain an exit visa from the Immigration Department in S. more
Tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands. On the Caribbean coast, however, December is by far the wettest month.
Costa Rica is located on the Central American Isthmus, surrounding the point 10° north of the Equator and 84° west of the Prime Meridian. It borders both the Caribbean Sea (to the east) and the Pacific Ocean (to the west), with a total of 1,290 km of coastline (212 km on the Caribbean coast and 1,016 km on the Pacific)
The tone here is casual wear - it is not necessary to dress up to go to dinner. Comfortable lightweight is best.
The rainy season runs from the beginning of May through the middle of November. 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.
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"
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this list is only a guideline for you
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Travel documents and Voucher
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Flight tickets
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Passport and copy of passport kept in a separate location
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Visa (check with your consulate)
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RIDING GEAR
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Comfortable light weight riding pants or jodhpurs
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Short boots and half chaps
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Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)
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Riding gloves
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Hat or visor
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Rain coat/Wax jacket
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PERSONAL CLOTHING
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Sweater for higher elevations and chilly nights in San Jose
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Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts
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Jeans
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Shorts
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Underwear and socks
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Pyjama
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Bag for dirty clothes
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Wind breaker or light jacket
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Comfortable walking shoes like lightweight hiking boots with a good tread for hikes
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River sandals or aqua socks
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Swimsuit and beach towel
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Bandana
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ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING
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Day pack and fanny pack
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Personal Toiletries
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Insect repellent at least 75% DEET
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Personal medications
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Sore cream (for the emergency)
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Sewing kit
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Handkerchiefs
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Camera and enough extra films (it is expensive in Costa Rica)
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Belt pack
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Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!)
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Sun glasses with strap
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Sun tan lotion with high sun protection factor, such as SPF 29-40
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Binoculars
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Flashlight
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Water bottle
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Battery alarm clock
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Plastic bags - for keeping books, binoculars and other items dry, and for wet clothing
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Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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Alice Martel
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4/8/2007
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ALICE MARTEL
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4/28/2006
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leo maguire
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1/5/2006
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Gail & Gary Goettelmann
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6/1/2005
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John and Julie Dinse
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6/1/2005
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Sharon Larson
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4/1/2004
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..view other reports for different trips
Hotel Villa Tournon is a four star hotel in San José. Come and enjoy the hospitality and the tranquillity of an oasis just a few blocks from downtown San José. Centrally located, close to major attractions such as the national theatre, gold museum or to the Capital’s night life.
All rooms have air conditioning, free cable internet connections, cable TV, direct dialing telephone, tub, shower and hot water.
The hotel restaurant and bar have a number of outstanding international dishes to be paid for locally.
Volcan Turrialba Lodge lies in the valley between Irazú and Turrialba Volcanoes. The lodge itself nesties in the foothills of Turrialba, only 5 kilometers from the crater of this dormant giant.
The whole area is one of great natural beauty-pristine and virtually unexplored. Ranging from 4500 to 10000 feet above sea level, it encompasses several life zones including tropical rainforest, cloud forest and the páramo.
Simple, homey comforts and personalized service at Volcán Turrialba Lodge make it a perfect base for exploring the mountain. With only twenty two rooms, each with private bath and fire stove, it's almost like having your own mountain retreat.
El Toucanet Lodge offers you spectacular views and personalized service, in a comfortable rustic atmosphere. The valley, the cloud forest and over 200 bird species make this area similar to Monteverde, and is an excellent place to stop and relax to break up the long drive to the southern beaches and National Parks of Costa Rica.
The rooms of El Toucanet Lodge are modern rustic made of wood and very cozy.
Private bath, hot water, desk, reading lamps, closet and big windows to enjoy the beautiful view of the mountains and cloud forest and sometimes to admire the beauty of a rainbow. Private terraces in each room.
Villas Rio Mar has a large swimming pool with wet bar and Jacuzzi, a tennis court, and a romantic palenque style restaurant featuring many local and international dishes. Furthermore, we offer green area's, Internet access, International telephone, and Spa.
Our Standard Bungalows will sleep up to 2 people and have a private, terrace like living-room and are equipped with private baths with hot water, refrigerator, fans, telephone (room service and internet access available) and of course... a hammock.
Timarai Bamboo Resort is an ecologically friendly, beachside resort. It has a wonderful restaurant, pool, and spa.
On the terrace of your room, you will find a hammock chair for your comfort and a hanging towel space. Your room includes, TV, Satellite International and national channels (w/ remote control), air conditioner, hotwater, air dryer, magnifying Mirror, personal care set, set of 4 towels and floor towel, and telephone. Your room will be equipped with a minibar fridge which will be restocked daily by room service.
Security: Private security is on the property day and night. Every room has a security box for your valuables.
Internet: Rent wireless service if you bring your laptop. If you need one please inquire at the front desk about laptop rentals.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Costa Rican saddles
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Horses:
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Criollos, Pasos
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Pace:
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Moderate with trots, canters, and some gallops. 4-6 hrs per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
out of 5) Good Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
10
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
210
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Riders:
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Min
4
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Max
10
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Passports
Passport valid for at least 30 days after arrival or for the length of stay, whichever is greater.
Passport Note
(a) Nationals listed above must obtain an exit visa from the Immigration Department in San José at least three weeks before leaving Costa Rica. Those who stay for less than 30 days are exempt if in possession of a disembarkation card.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, UK and USA for stays over 90 days;
(b) 2. nationals of Australia, Bulgaria and Ireland for stays over 30 days.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
The immigration authorities are strict about detaining foreigners who are undocumented or tourists who have overstayed.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No/1 |
| Australian |
No/2 |
| Canadian |
No/1 |
| USA |
No/1 |
| Other EU |
No/1/2 |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Kaleidoscope Ride - Volcanoes and Paramo
Tour Code: IT-CRIT04
10 days /
9 nights
~$2,750.00
Difficulty :
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates |
Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
Costa Rican saddles
Horses:
Criollos, Pasos
Pace:
Moderate with trots, canters, and some...
Walk, Trot, Canter, Gallop,
Airport:
San Jose
Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
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