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ITINERARY ***Subject to change***
DAY 1 - San Jose Costa Rica
Arrive San Jose, capital of Costa Rica. Located in the central highlands. Most airlines arrive in the late evening for a brief overnight stay before our adventure continues.
DAYS 2 & 3 - Tortuguero National Park & turtle nesting grounds
Begin with an incredible bus ride over the mountains to the Caribbean coast, where a half day boat ride takes us to Tortuguero, with spectacular wildlife viewing en route. Tortuguero National Park was created in 1975 to protect the four species of sea turtles which nest along the beaches. We may see herons, egrets, spoonbills, as well as amphibians and reptiles like the “Jesus Lizard” (it walks on water) and caimans. The tropical rainforest gives way to beaches, ideal nesting grounds for Green, Loggerhead, Hawksbill and Leatherback Turtles. The latter nests from mid- March to May, so we hope to see them on this trip. Spend time cruising the canals looking for howler monkeys, toucans and crocodiles amongst other wildlife and visit the Caribbean Conservation Center. An excellent source of information about the turtles and their tropical habitat. 2B, 2D
DAYS 4 & 5 - Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui
Leaving behind the Caribbean Coast, we travel by boat and van through lush rainforest and palm plantations to the village of Sarapiqui. Immerse yourself in this little visited area and Eco lodge where 54% of all species living in Costa Rica can be found. Enjoy interpretive walks to learn about frogs, birds, bats, or even chocolate. We may also have the chance to visit a local palm or pineapple plantation. A true "off the beaten path" experience. **Note - exact lodge may vary. 2B, 2L, 2D
DAY 6 - La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano
A van trip takes us to La Fortuna at the base of the Arenal Volcano. Set on the northern plains of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano sits on the southeast shore of artificial Lake Arenal (77 square kilometres,). Separating the mountain ranges of Guanacaste and Tilarán, the lake was created by a hydroelectric dam. The volcano has been very active and occasional eruptions made it a natural wonder to be respected. However, since the beginning of 2011 it has remained dormant. Who knows what 2012 will bring! We spend the evening soaking in the hot springs at its base, sipping cocktails, hoping to catch a glimpse of lava flowing down the side. B
DAYS 7 to 9 - Monteverde Cloud Forest
From the central valley, ascending into the cool, misty mountain air, we travel by horse around Lake Arenal to Monteverde. Spend time exploring the town and the Forest Reserve which covers 1600 hectares of forest and is home to a great variety of wildlife. More than 2,000 species of plants, 320 bird species and 100 different species of mammals inhabit this small area. You may be lucky enough to see the Resplendent Quetzal, one of the most beautiful and elusive birds in the world.
Quakers from the United States founded the village of Monteverde in the 1950s. Looking to leave behind the constant fear of war and objecting to being forced to support continued militarism through their taxes, the Quakers chose Costa Rica because of its commitment to a non-militaristic economic path—Costa Rica’s army was dissolved in the 1940s. The unique community has several local co-operatives worth visiting including artist collectives and a cheese factory. Optional activities include the Sky Walk, a series of suspension bridges through the jungle canopy, a butterfly garden, Ranarium and a thrilling canopy zip line. 3B, 1D
DAYS 10 & 11 - Havana Cuba
An early start takes us by van directly to the airport for our morning flight to Havana, Cuba. One of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere, Havana was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982. Venture among the splendorous crumbling architecture of the streets of old Havana and sit on the famous sea wall (El Malecon) to take in the view and some fresh air, and to socialize with the colourful and friendly 'Habaneros'. We'll take you on a guided walking tour of the historic centre of Havana (approx 2 hours) and later visit a rum factory to enjoy a drop of Cuba's finest. The evening will feature a Buena Vista Social Club show. 2B, 1D
DAYS 12 & 13 - Vinales
Surrounded by picturesque limestone pincushion hills (“mogotes”), Vinales is a small and culturally rich village, where you will get your first experience staying in the house of a Cuban family. Explore caves, hiking, biking, horseback riding or simply enjoying the views of the valley and sprawling tobacco fields below are all options. Vinales is one of the cooler areas of Cuba, so its also a nice escape from the hotter parts of the country. The nightlife is very active in this village with the local residents more than willing participants in dancing to the local live music.
From Havana to Vinales its about a 3 hour drive, and on the way we usually stop for lunch at the mountain resort town of Soroa. There are quite a few attractions here including a short trek to a waterfall, a steep walk to a lookout, a very impressive orchid garden. 2B
DAY 14 - Cienfuegos
We head to the French founded city of Cienfuegos and the
Bay of Pigs. Cubans call their town La Perla del Sur (the pearl of the
south). Its appeal lies partly in the European flavour of its colonial
hub, with a wide Parisian-style boulevard and elegant colonnades. Beyond
Cienfuegos we travel along the picturesque Bay of Pigs past the site
where the landing of counter-revolutionary exile militia occured in
1961. After this you’ll have the chance to stop at a beautiful swimming
hole which resembles a huge natural tropical fish tank. The scenery
changes shortly afterwards to a densely vegetated swamp where the
natural fauna includes boa snakes and crocodiles. We have the
opportunity to visit a crocodile farm here at Guama. B
DAYS 15 & 16 - Trinidad
Its only about 2 hour drive to from Cienfuegos to Trinidad but we make the most of the beautiful journey by stopping at the picturesque El Nicho Waterfall. You'll have the chance to swim, walk and explore. Trinidad is a standout favourite destination. No other colonial city in Cuba is so well preserved, and the local residents are extremely friendly and festive. Trinidad is steeped in religiosity, none the least of which is Santeria and other Afro-Cuban religions that are related to Voodoo. There are no less than 10 live music venues all within a short walking distance. Many of these have lovely outdoor settings, in courtyards, and within the walls of old colonial ruins.
We are near the lovely Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of Sugarmills) and Playa Ancón, where you can enjoy long stretches of unspoiled, white sand beaches. Scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming in waterfalls and horse-riding are other optional activities. 2B
DAY 17 - Havana via Santa Clara
We return to Havana via Santa Clara, where there is a huge statue of Ernesto Ché Guevara, to commemorate his death and that of the revolutionaries who died along
with him in Bolivia. There is also a museum here dedicated to his amazing life. Our final night in Cuba is spent back in Havana. B
DAYS 18 to 20 - Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Fly back to Cancun and spend our last few of days in the bustling, vibrant tourist town of Playa del Carmen. We'll be staying in the central part of town away from the resort hotels, but right near the most beautiful stretch of white sand beach. While we are here, a trip to the impressive Mayan site of Chichen Itza, is included and you also have the option of visiting the Tulum Mayan site. You'll have time to do as much or as little as you like. Swim, snorkel, explore the underground rivers, visit Cozumel Island, dive, or do some souvenir shopping for that silly sombrero or gorgeous tiled mirror. These last couple days are designed as a relaxing end to an active trip, so you may prefer to just sit in a local bar with an icy cold Marguerita, squishing sand between your toes and wandering across the beach for a swim in the electric blue water. You tour leader will be on hand at all times to offer help in sightseeing, activities, and great places to eat. We'll also enjoy a final dinner together, celebrating a fantastic and diverse trip. 3B, 1D
DAY 21 - Depart Cancun
Hasta luego amigos! Depart any time today. Ask us about adding on Guatemala!
IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?
Our tour focuses on wildlife & nature in Costa Rica, culture, scenery, history & music in Cuba, and relaxation in Mexico. We see and do a lot in three weeks, so there is quite a bit of travelling, but there is also time for relaxation, enjoying the beaches and free time. This trip gives you a fabulous overview of three very different cultures, their way of life plus the history of Cuba.
The hotels have private facilities and are typically locally owned small family run establishments of around a 3 star category. We stay in two eco lodges while in Costa Rica, which have generators and mores rustic (still private) facilities. In Cuba the home stay rooms are basic but all very comfortable and clean, and the families will try to make you feel at home as much as possible, like part of the family. There the group will split up into different homes. Generally between 1 and 4 group members with each family. Home stays are a major highlight of your time in Cuba, as they provide a first-hand experience of living with a Cuban family. The home stays are a vastly different experience than staying in hotels. Most Cubans are very friendly and love to talk to you.
Transport is a variety of private vans, taxis and flights. Even though there are about four long travel days and a couple of very early starts, we aim to make this trip fun, rewarding and the trip of a lifetime.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?
- Bilingual tour leader & local guides
- All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 7 dinners
- Guided boat trip on Tortuguero canal
- Walk to turtle nesting ground or Sea Turtle Interpretation Centre
- Interpretive walks at Tirimbina Eco Lodge
- Hot springs excursion La Fortuna
- Horse ride on way to Monteverde (or van transport for those not wanting to ride)
- Monteverde Cloud Forest guided walk
- Havana city tour, cigar factory tour, rum distillery tour
- Buena Vista Social Club show
- Visit to El Nicho waterfall
- Guided tour of Chichen Itza Mayan site
- All land and air transport during the itinerary - see flight costs
- The cost of entry for all scheduled tours.
- All accommodation on a twin share basis
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:
Your domestic and international airport departure taxes, pre & post tour accommodation, visas (required for Cuba for all nationalities), vaccinations, personal travel insurance (compulsory), meals (except those listed ) , drinks, laundry, souvenirs, tips, and other items of a personal nature.
All prices are approximates and subject to currency fluctuations until final payment has been made.
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