Wildlife Week

On arrival you will transfer around Poas Volcano to the Sarapiqui area of the Caribbean lowlands. It almost certainly will be dark when you arrive after a long day travelling but the reward is waking in the morning and taking coffee with toucans flying in to the lodge's bird feeding station, hummingbirds darting about, monkeys overhead and the excitement of being on the edge of the rainforest.

A guided walk at the world renowned La Selva Biological Station nearby will enthral you with the wealth of species present. The location is relatively flat and the walking easy, particularly when stopping frequently for observations. Bird watching is excellent here with many unusual or rare neotropical species among over 500 recorded but the reserve also has a wide range of mammals including 5 cats: jaguar, puma, ocelot, margay and jaguarundi; primates, anteaters, coatimundis. The local guides are excellent and provide a fine introduction to Costa Rica.

Returning to San Jose you will fly south to Palmar Sur or Drake Bay for a transfer by boat to a lodge on the north coast of the Osa Penisula. This rocky coast with small sandy coves is backed by some of the best wilderness in Costa Rica. The forests here are incredibly diverse and protected as Corcovado National Park, a tract of lowland rainforest of world importance. In the heart of the park is Sirena Station and an excursion to the trails here is planned. Squirrel monkeys, tapir and a wealth of bird life may be seen as well as pantropical spotted dolphins en route to the beach landing. A second excursion by boat to Cano Island for snorkelling or exploration could also provide views of humpback whales that come to this area to calve.

After your time in a tropical wildlife paradise you will transfer back towards San Jose for your final destination before departure, the cloudforest of the hidden Savegre Valley. This steep sided valley is now protected as Los Quetzales National Park and is the best place to see resplendent quetzal, perhaps the most sought after bird in Costa Rica. The hummingbirds here are a delight too. We have chosen to use Dantica Eco-Lodge as your last accommodation as it has stunning views out over the canopy of the forest under which you can wander a number of trails. Wishing for a longer stay in this friendly and diverse country it is all too soon time to head back to the airport for your journey home. But what a week!

November - April

Highlight species

	Leopard
	Sloth Bear
	Elephant
	Buffalo

Key species

Cost from £

Please contact us for a cost for when you wish to travel.

Our trips are almost always tailored to your requirements, we'll make small changes or alter the itinerary completely for you. For instance we get many requests to slow down the pace of a trip.

Departure Dates

Any day to your requirements.

Difficulty

Generally easy walks at a relaxed pace, some steep ground may be encountered in the Savegre Valley. Snorkelling optional.

Flights

Direct flights on British Airways, or via US hubs on other carriers with some regional departures possible.

Time

GMT -6 hours

Stay longer and explore more wildlife in Costa Rica.