Costa Rica is one of the world's great adventure destinations. This 15-day adrenaline-filled journey has you trekking deep in the jungle, biking along a volcano and whitewater rafting the Reventazon and Pacuare Rivers. Costa Rica Hike, Bike & Raft Active 2009 GAP 6 12 Max 12, Avg 8 Central America Costa Rica San Jose San Jose Costa Rica Costa Rica Cycling, Rafting, Trekking/Hiking 15 4 Standard http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/costarica/costarica_frog_1.jpg Arrive in San José at any time. Stay at a rustic rainforest lodge, after an excursion deep into the jungle, which will be our base of operations for a few days. Experience the stunning display of natural landscapes, waterfalls, and plant species endemic to this lush region during one of the many day hikes. Overnight in Guápiles on Day 5. Raft down the thrilling Reventazon and Pacuare Rivers as you revel in the strange sounds of the jungle animals and the rare trees and flora surrounding you. The afternoon and evening are spent at a remote rainforest tent camp. Leave the river and head to La Fortuna, located at the base of Averal Volcano. Bike through Arenal Park over lava fields. The next day, visit the famous La Fortuna waterfall and take a well-deserved dip in the swimming hole.
Set off by van then boat before travelling by horseback on your way to Monteverde. Enjoy a guided tour of a Cloud Forest Reserve, a true bird lover's paradise. The afternoon is free to explore the area or walk along bridges suspended above the trees. Don't miss the butterfly garden or the famous canopy zip line. We return to San José for our final evening and dinner on the town. As your fellow travellers are arriving at various times throughout the day, there are no planned activities other than a group dinner and info session. If you arrive early enough, you'll have time to head into the city to visit a museum, shop or people-watch in the main plaza. As it is located in the central highlands, San José enjoys a moderate climate.

Like most cities, San José has its good and bad sides. It is the centre of government, theatre, and art, as well as of air pollution and congestion. It has beautiful parks and museums, and a few beggars on the streets. It is big and often noisy, but even from its crowded downtown streets, you’ll often enjoy a view of the surrounding lush mountains.

Probably the hardest thing you will do in San José, other than getting safely across busy streets, is keeping the street numbering systems straight. Street and avenue numbers are posted on buildings at the corners of some intersections. Keep looking as you walk, and you will eventually find one.

The plaza is a good place to people-watch. A mime, juggler, marimba band, magician, or storyteller may be performing for whatever is collected when the hat is passed. Artisan booths are common, creating a regular arts and crafts fair atmosphere.

A source of pride for the Ticos (Costa Ricans) is the National Theatre. Inaugurated in 1897, the building was paid for by coffee growers through a voluntary tax on every bag of coffee exported. The National Museum, housed in the Bellavista Fortress, offers exhibits on pre-Columbian art, colonial art and furniture and religious art within a 19th century building that was converted from a military fortress after the army was abolished.

The Museum of Costa Rican Art, located in La Sabana Park used to be the international airport and this museum is in the old terminal building. The Jade Museum is on the 11th floor of the Instituto Nacional de Seguros building. In addition to the marvellous collection of jade objects, there are pre-Columbian ceramic and stone works as well as displays with archaeological and ethnographic information. The Gold Museum is located underneath the Plaza de la Cultura. Its spectacular collection of indigenous gold art belongs to the Central Bank of Costa Rica.

The best and least expensive places to buy souvenirs in San José are the markets. The two main ones are the ones in Plaza de la Cultura, which is an outdoor open market, and the Central Market, where handicrafts are sold along with boots, fish, flour, herbal remedies, shirts and everything else you can imagine. Always watch your belongings and be ready for crowds. If you plan on spending a few days in San José prior to or after your tour, there are a number of activities within the city and area that you can participate in, many of them outdoors.

Please note it will be necessary to repack your bags according to the packing list provided for La Danta as it is an early departure on the morning of day 2. Located on the lush Caribbean slopes of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, La Danta Salvaje was founded in 1988 as a non-profit private forest reserve in an effort to protect the Costa Rican rainforest. Consisting of over 1000 acres of primary growth bordering Braulio Carrillo National Park, the reserve forms part of the invaluable buffer zone necessary in preserving the integrity of the park and its surrouding areas. Day hikes, along a trail system originally forged by wild tapirs, provide visitors the chance to experience first hand the stunning display of natual landscapes, waterfalls and plant species endemic to the region, including heliconias, orchids, giant ferns and many others. The area is home to a great variety of animal species, including several in danger of extinction, such as the tapir, crested guan, jaguar and silky anteater.

We embark on a 4 day/3 night excursion deep into the Jungle, using a rustic lodge situated in the heart of the rainforest as our base of operations. We hike remote and unspoiled primary forest located in the central volcanic mountain range on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Hike along the rainforest and enjoy the view of different waterfalls, including one that’s 150 metres high. Opportunities to see wildlife abound and if you’re really lucky, you may catch a glimpse of an endangered species such as tapir, puma or jaguar. Day hikes provide visitors the chance to experience first hand the stunning display of natural landscapes, waterfalls, and plant species endemic to the region. Each afternoon the group returns from the hikes to the comfort and safety of the lodge. Located near one of the many beautiful waterfalls cascading down the rim of the canyon, the lodge provides a spectacular view of the canopy and the seemingly never-ending rainforest.

The evening of day 5 we head to the town of Guapiles to overnight. Guapiles is the commercial and social centre for the banana and vegetable farmers of the surrounding area.

To La Danta Private Reserve
Estimated Travel Time: 8 hours
Approximate Distance: 210 km
Our rafting adventure begins with a trip down the thrilling Reventazon River. The next day we set off on the Pacuare River, known for its spectacular canyons and virgin rainforest. Afternoons and evenings are spent at a remote tent camp.

The Pacuare Protected Zone and Pacuare River are located between the coastal lowlands and the country's highest mountain range and constitute one of the isthmus's most important protected areas. This area is still inhabited by the Cabecar Indians, whose hut dwellings are spaced far apart over large distances, rather than being clustered, as was true of most native tribes. Located strategically inside this zone of protected wilderness is our very special jungle getaway, the Pacuare Lodge, accesible to travelers through our multiday white-water rafting tours on the Pacuare River. Considered by many experienced rafters to be one of the most scenic rivers in the world, the Pacuare offers an adventurous ride filled with stunning natural beauty and exciting rapids.

To Guapiles (start of rafting):
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours
Approximate Distance: 150 km On the morning of Day 8 we ride on horseback along the shores of Lake Arenal and come to a beautiful lodge on the shores of this man made waterway.

Set on the northern plains of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano is on the shores of Lake Arenal, (77 square kilometres, or 48 square miles), created by a hydroelectric project. Winds sweeping off the Caribbean Sea reach speeds of 48 to 72 km/hr (30 to 45 mph), making Arenal one of the best sail boarding locations in the world. The lake actually separates the mountain ranges of Guanacaste and Tilarán. The volcano is set on the lake’s southeast end. It is active and occasional eruptions make it a natural wonder to be respected. Arenal is especially impressive at night, when the glowing molten lava is blasted into the ink-black sky. Even during the day, its reflection on Lake Arenal is truly enchanting.

There are several attractions in the area aside from the lake and volcano. It is a birders’ paradise, with over 600 species as permanent residents, and is inhabited by numerous species of frogs. You can also enjoy hiking the area’s nature trails, or if you’re more daring, you can opt to climb a ladder to participate in one of the canopy tours and catch a fresh glimpse of the forest greenery.

Located at the base of the magnificent Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna has much to offer the adventurous traveller We have one free day to take advantage of the town’s many exciting optional activities including biking, kayaking, rappelling, hiking the Arenal volcano, hiking to one of the many waterfalls and, of course, enjoying a frosty beverage in the swim-up bar at the local hot springs.

On the morning of day 9 we bike through unsealed roads, over lava fields and through much lovely scenery to end in the town of La Fortuna. The following day we enjoy a bike ride to the famous la Fortuna waterfall and take a dip in a swimming hole. On both days we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch.
After a long day of exploring, one of the many local volcanic hot springs might just be the answer to your tired muscles. Soak in one of the natural thermal baths under the shade of the surrounding canopy.

Estimated Travel Time: 6 hours
Approximate Distance: 180 km
We ride on horseback (approximate riding time - 3 hours) the morning of day 11 to arrive at Monteverde. Enjoy a guided tour of the Reserve in Monteverde Cloud Forest, truly a bird lover's paradise. You have the afternoon free to explore the area or go on the Sky Walk, check out the butterfly garden, or try the famous canopy zip-line. This mountain dairy-producing community is full of arts collectives, environmentalists and free spirits. Of course, the main reason we come here is to explore the vast cloud forest. Marvel at the teeming life in the Reserve as our guide teaches the group about the local birds and wildlife.

Monteverde or “Green Mountain” when translated into English, is exactly what you will find at the end of this long, rutted dirt road, that we use to travel to this area. The surrounding pastures were once covered with dense forest, but only a small piece of it now remains. That piece of forest has been preserved as the Reserva Biologica Bosque Nuboloso Monteverde, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.

A cloud forest is much like a rainforest, but much of the moisture comes not from falling rain but from the condensation left by the nearly constant cloud cover that blankets the tops of mountains in many parts of the tropics. Monteverde Reserve covers 1600 hectares of forest and is home to a great variety of wildlife. More than 2,000 species of plants, 320 birds species, and 100 different species of mammals inhabit this small area.

The village of Monteverde was founded in the 1950s by Quakers from the United States. They wished to leave behind the constant fear of war and the obligation to support continued militarism through U.S. taxes and chose Costa Rica because it was committed to a non-militaristic economic path. Since its founding, Monteverde has grown slowly as other people, who shared the original Quaker founders’ ideals, moved to the area. Although the Quakers came here to farm the land, they recognized the need to preserve the rare cloud forest that covers the mountain slopes above their fields. The community is very different from those on the coast, and offers several souvenir shops and the Quaker cheese factory, which is definitely worth a visit. The Santa Elena Reserve, is another park in this area that is less well known and visited, but also worth seeing. All proceeds from this park profit the local community.

Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours
Approximate Distance: 60 km
We return to San José for our final evening and dinner on the town.

Estimated Travel Time: 6 hours
Approximate Distance: 170 km
1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 1549 1479 939 779 2029 1379 1109 1629 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD Accommodation Hotels/guest houses (10 nts), Jungle lodge - no electricity (4 nts). Brief Highlights San José, La Danta Private Reserve, Rafting the Reventazon and Pacuare Rivers, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna. Departure Departs Saturdays, twice a month DepEnd Sat-Sat Group Leader Tour leader throughout, local guides. Group Size Max 12, Avg 8 Included Highlights 4-day hiking excursion to La Danta Private Reserve, 3-day rafting trip on the Reventazon and Pacuare Rivers, Guided visit to a Cloud Forest Reserve near Monteverde, Horseback riding around Arenal Lake, Visit to Hot Springs in La Fortuna, 2 half-day biking trips in La Fortuna.
Max Pax 12 Meal Budget Allow USD250 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details. Meals Included 6 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 5 Dinners. Min Pax 6 Recommendation Want to be active, but not this active? Check out our ever popular Costa Rica Adventure - see code CRA. StartFinish ex San José Testimonial "Everything went smoothly and our guide did an amazing job. The Costa Rican people, places and sites made this a trip of a lifetime." - Steve Quinn travelled on Costa Rica Hike, Bike & Raft Transport Public bus, Private van, Bike, Horses, Boat, Rafts, Hiking. A Couple of Rules Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for G.A.P Adventures Adventure travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they use prostitutes.
Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Associated Planeterra Project
Brochure Intro Costa Rica is one of the world's great adventure destinations. This 15-day adrenaline-filled journey has you trekking deep in the jungle, biking along a volcano and whitewater rafting the Reventazon and Pacuare Rivers. Checklist - Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash and travellers cheques
- Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
- G.A.P Adventures vouchers and dossier
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Camera and film
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars
- Cover or plastic bags for backpacks
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Small towel and swim wear
- Rain poncho
- Sun hat
- 2 pairs of shorts
- 1 pair of long trousers
- 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
- 2 or 3 pairs of socks (1 long pair)
- Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (rubber boots provided during hiking section at La Danta)
- Sport sandals
- Sunblock
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (biodegradable)
- flashlight
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- Watch or alarm clock
- Water bottle
- Purification tablets or filter (optional)
- Pocketknife
- Sleeping bag (OPTIONAL - adequate sheets & blankets are provided but if more comfortable using own bedding, bring a sleeping bag)
- First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).

For the La Danta section:
- 1 medium-sized back-pack
- 2-3 pairs of socks. One pair should be knee length
- 1 pair of lightweight trousers to hike in
- 1-2 pairs of shorts
- 2-3 T-shirts
- A light sweater or jacket for chilly nights
- 1 towel
- Swimwear
- 1st Aid Kit (including any personal medications)
- A flashlight (there is no electricity)
- Camera, binoculars, extra batteries
- Minimum toiletries (incl. bug spray and sunscreen)
- A cap or hat
- Rain gear (poncho or jacket)
- Hiking boots (rubber boots are supplied, but some people prefer to use hiking boots and just get them wet and muddy).
- Sleeping bag (OPTIONAL - adequate sheets & blankets are provided but if more comfortable using own bedding, bring a sleeping bag)
***Please have your items repacked in preparation for an early departure the morning of day 2. The hike to arrive at La Danta is 6 miles uphill and you will have to carry your bag***

For the Rafting section:
-Swimming Suit
-Shorts
-T-shirt
-Tennis shoes, Teva Sandals or Aqua shoes (not flip-flops)
-Windbreaker or any synthetic fabric t-shirt
-Sun Block 15+
-Full set of dry clothes for changing
-Towel
-Plastic bag for wet clothes
-Insect repellent Departure Tax USD26 Detailed Trip Notes Dossier Disclaimer The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Dossier Intro Costa Rica is one of the world's great adventure destinations. This 15-day adrenaline-filled journey has you hiking some of its highest peaks, biking down a volcano and whitewater rafting the Reventazon and Pacuare Rivers. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office in San José, Costa Rica. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so that we may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

G.A.P Adventures San José, Costa Rica,
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm local time (GMT –6).
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + 506 2231 4708.

Costa Rica Emergency Cell Phone: +506 8322 9140 (after office hours).

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office in Costa Rica,
we have a toll-free line within North America (or our regular direct line), which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999.
Mobile: + 1 416 305 6139.
Emergency Fund Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations
Free Online Trip Journals An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal. Group Leader Description All G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G.A.P Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. Health You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G.A.P Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. Important Notes 1) You should NOT participate in rafting if you fall into any of the following categories - under 12 years of age, pregnant, or have had major surgery in the last 6 months or major injury e.g. spine or neck problems.
Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Joining Hotel Hotel Aranjuez
Calle 19, Avenida 11 & 13
(behind the hospital Calderon-Guardia)
San José, Costa Rica
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + 506 2256-1825
Fax: Int. Dialing Code + 506 2223-3528

Joining Instructions The best way to get to the arrival point hotel is via taxi from the airport. There are fixed (official) rates at the airport counter. It is a 25-30 minute drive (depending on traffic) into the city.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned, so you may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day during which no activities are planned.

Your Tour Leader will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. The Tour Leader will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Keeping in Touch If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Laundry Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Local Flights All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
Local payment description Most of our adventure tours involve a local payment. This is the final payment of your tour price, paid locally. Paying locally facilitates the flow of funds into countries that we travel through and also helps to reduce the overall price of the tour. This helps G.A.P Adventures keep our prices competitive and in-turn, pass our cost savings onto you. Payment is to be made to your leader or G.A.P Adventures representative upon arrival in cash in the requested currency. Please see our website, brochure or your trip documents and invoice for Local Payment.
Meals Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G.A.P Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.
Money Exchange Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash, travellers cheques and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Newsletter Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Optional Activities All prices are per person, in USD amounts and are subject to change as services are provided by third party operators.

Monteverde:
Sky Trek $35
Sky Walk $15
Sky Tram $10
Butterfly garden $7 (entrance)
Night Hikes $17
Coffee Tour $25
Horseback Riding $28 for 2 ½ Hours, $44 for 3 ½ hours, $53 for Full Day to Waterfall (5 ½ Hours)
ATV Tours $50 for Single, $75 for Shared
Frog Pond $8 with Guided Tour
Serpentarium $8 with Guided Tour
Cheese Factory Tour $10

La Fortuna/Arenal:
Rafting (Full day) $75 (with lunch)
Kayaking $55 (with lunch)
River float $40
Cave tour $30
Canyoneering $75 (with lunch)
Caño Negro Reserve $45 (full day leave at 6:30am)
Volcano hike $25
Safari Adventure $40
Horse ride to waterfall $30
Tabacon Hot Springs $45 (with food)
Baldi Hot Springs $20
Canyoning rapell tour $60 includes breakfast & snack
Maleku indigenous reserve $50 includes lunch
Sky Tram $15

San José:
Carara Reserve $60 (full day w break & lunch)
Irazu, Orosi and Lankaster Garden tour $55 (with lunch)
Grecia & Sarchi $40 (oxcart & handicrafts)
City tour $24
Poas Volcano $51
Rafting (Pacuare) $90
Rafting (Sarapiqui) $75
Braulio Carrillo Reserve $50-$65
Café Britt tour $20-$30
Butterfly Farm $20-$25 Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking) Responsible Travel Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G.A.P Adventures is all about. From the start, G.A.P Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.

For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G.A.P Adventures website: www.gapadventures.com
Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Single Travellers We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Spending Money Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G.A.P Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used. Travel Forum - The Watering Hole Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Trip Specific Safety Like any city where tourism is on the increase, crime also tends to increase and while San José is not a noticeably dangerous city, there are certain precautions you should take. Make sure that you are aware of your things at all times and don't go out carrying expensive gear or jewellery. Validity Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2009 - December 31st 2009. Visas All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.
We Want Your Photos If you've got some great photos form your G.A.P Adventures travels, then post them online in our community! You can share photos - and videos - with our travellers from around the world. Simply go online to www.gapadventures.com/community to check out what other people have shared! We often have photo and video contests running too, so be sure to check our website often!
What to Take We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack (whichever you find easiest to carry). A good size daypack is also essential. Backpack should be medium size, comfortable shoulder strap variety. Keep in mind, you will be required to carry what you bring!

PLEASE NOTE: You will be returning to San José after the hiking and rafting portions of the trip. All extra items can be safely stored at the hotel in San José. Your Fellow Travellers As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.