Holiday Classic Monteverde & Arenal: Dec 25, 2023 – Jan 1, 2024

Upon your morning or afternoon arrival in San José, you'll meet your driver for a scenic three-hour journey to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. This high-altitude forest, known for its dense and diverse vegetation, is ideal for hiking and birdwatching. Once you arrive, check in at the Monteverde Lodge, one of the area's most unique and cherished hotels. The lodge features stylish and comfortable rooms, an international fusion restaurant and bar, serene gardens filled with native plants, and a private reserve bustling with exotic birds, lazy sloths, and delicate orchids. Your hotel concierge can assist with restaurant reservations, taxi services, and tour arrangements.

This morning, enjoy a PRIVATE tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Established in 1972 and covering 3,500 hectares, the Monteverde Reserve is home to 2.5% of the world's biodiversity. The unique geographical, topographical, and climatic conditions in the reserve have contributed to its remarkable variety of life. Within this forest, you’ll find four distinct "Ecological Life Zones," each supporting diverse ecosystems that host hundreds of species, including mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and arachnids. Additionally, you’ll encounter a wide range of plant life, such as mosses, vines, and the characteristic trees of the cloud forest. This evening, join the Monteverde Night Tour, an excellent opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the nocturnal cloud forest. Many species become active at night, offering a unique experience in the dark. The tour begins with an introductory video about the Monteverde Cloud Forest, after which each participant will receive a flashlight. The hike starts at the Hummingbird Gallery and follows a one-mile (1.6 km) trail. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for various insects, birds, and nocturnal mammals. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge.

This morning, indulge in a PRIVATE Local Horseback Riding Tour. Experience a horseback adventure along private trails on an 80-hectare farm. Take in stunning views of the forest, open fields, coffee and banana plantations, and a breathtaking vista of the Nicoya Gulf. *Maximum rider weight: 200 lbs. This afternoon, enjoy the local Coffee, Sugarcane, and Chocolate Tour. This tour showcases Costa Rican traditions and culture, illustrating how a small seed transforms into one of the world's most renowned beverages. You’ll explore coffee, sugarcane, and cacao plantations, learning about each step of the process. It's a fantastic opportunity for coffee enthusiasts to uncover what goes into every cup. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge.

Embark on an exhilarating journey aboard the TreeTram cableway. Ascend to one of Monteverde's highest points at 5,700 feet above sea level and start your adventure through the cloud forest. Next, dive into one of Costa Rica's most exciting canopy experiences! Soar through the trees on seven ziplines, varying in length from 460 to 2,460 feet, totaling an impressive 1.9 miles. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the magical cloud forest by traversing a 1.7-mile network of trails and six hanging bridges, which range from 157 to 774 feet long and reach heights of up to 164 feet. *Height and weight restrictions apply. Please inquire for details before booking. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge.

Early this morning, you’ll transfer by ground for about 1.5 hours to Rio Chiquito, a quaint town on the shores of Lake Arenal. There, you’ll board a boat for a scenic crossing of the lake, which takes approximately 15-25 minutes depending on wind conditions. The boat will dock at the Arenal Dam, where you’ll continue by ground transfer to your hotel in the Arenal Volcano area. Upon arrival at Hotel Arenal Manoa, you’ll find the perfect base for your Arenal adventures. The hotel boasts stunning views of Arenal Volcano, along with a spacious pool and an on-site restaurant. The expansive gardens provide lovely walking paths, and the on-site farm reflects the region's agricultural heritage. The hotel concierge is available to assist with restaurant reservations, taxi services, and tour bookings.

Trek through the forest on trails that lead to some of the most stunning waterfalls in Costa Rica. With the help of specialized techniques and standard mountaineering gear, uncover hidden secrets deep within the canyon. The adventure begins with a brief safety briefing before you gear up and take a short hike to the top of the first waterfall, where your descent begins. You’ll navigate five rappels—four along waterfalls and one on a dry rock face—ranging in height from 20 to 50 meters, all designed to get your adrenaline pumping! Prepare for vertical drops, lush jungle vegetation, undisturbed wildlife, solitude, and an exhilarating adventure! Overnight at Hotel Arenal Manoa.

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the rainforest as you experience the tranquility of the Peñas Blancas River. Your guides will provide a brief paddling instruction before you set off down the gentle river in search of monkeys, sloths, reptiles, and elusive tropical birds! Be sure to keep an eye on the treetops, riverbanks, and waters below to catch glimpses of some of Costa Rica’s most fascinating wildlife on this unique river adventure. Overnight at Hotel Arenal Manoa.

This morning you will transfer by ground approximately 3 hours to the international airport in San Jose for your afternoon or evening departure.