Home > Expeditions > Natural Treasures of Costa Rica
Natural Treasures of Costa Rica
- 7 Days
- Departure/Arrival:
- San Jose, Costa Rica - San Jose, Costa Rica
- Voyage code:
- NCR001S
- Voyage type:
- Discovery Expedition
- Ship:
- Sylvia Earle
- Price:
-
GBP £5,895.00
from GBP £4,421.25/pp
Save 25%*
Summary
Welcome to AE Expeditions’ Natural Treasures of Costa Rica voyage.
Costa Rica, meaning ‘rich coast’, is a nature lover’s paradise. While it is a small country, Costa Rica contains approximately 6 percent of the world’s biodiversity. The country has environmental conservation policies in place, roughly a quarter of the country is made up of protected jungle, and we are incredibly fortunate to explore the region on land and sea. We hope to observe the unique wildlife including a number of indigenous birds and animals such as the Marbled Wood Quail, hummingbirds, toucans, spider monkeys, iguanas, sloths and perhaps the rare and endangered Scarlet Macaw.
Highlights
• Enjoy hikes among some of the most biodiverse rainforests on earth, a chance to encounter wildlife including sloths, howler, spider, capuchin and squirrel monkeys
• Keep your eyes and ears tuned for the regal Scarlet Macaws at Curú National Wildlife Refuge
• Learn about the conservation efforts of Costa Rica as they continue to protect their precious corner of the earth
• Pack your binoculars and spot an exquisite array of wildlife whilst hiking or participating in our included water activities
Gallery
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering flexibility in challenging environments in a way that puts you among the action to see and do as much as possible. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to weather conditions.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive San Jose
Having made your way to San Jose, you will be met by a representative of AE Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel. Please visit the AE Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.
Enjoy free time, and in the evening, dine at your leisure (dinner not included).
Assigned accommodation: To be confirmed
Day 2 Embarkation Day
This morning, your luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to the port for sanitisation, clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. There is time to settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings. Enjoy the thrill of departure as we ‘throw the lines’ and set sail for an exciting tropical adventure.
Day 3 Manuel Antonio National Park
Boasting over 100 species of mammals, 184 species of birds and an impressive variety flora, Manuel Antonio National Park understandably attracts wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. Costa Rica’s star attractions - two and three toed sloths, as well as white-faced monkeys, toucans, agoutis, armadillos and coatis are a few of the exciting animals that you may encounter within the park. We explore the park in the cool, early hours of the morning before returning to the vessel for lunch. In the afternoon, you have the option to explore Quepos town or enjoy some water activities.
Day 4 Rio Claro Wildlife Refuge
The untamed Osa Peninsula is considered by National Geographic to be ‘one of the most biologically intense places on earth’. We plan to hike the trails at Rio Claro Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary that encompasses 500 hectares of tropical rainforests, making it one of the most important natural preserves in Central America. Rio Claro is one of the last refuges for pumas, ocelot, jaguarundis, tapirs, white-lipped peccaries and a host of other rainforest animals. The high plateau forests, with trees towering over 43 m (140 ft), supports hundreds of species of ferns, bromeliads and orchids, and creates a biological corridor between palm swamps and mangroves. It is an extension of Corcovado National Park, the country's largest and one of the most remote parks in Costa Rica.
Day 5 Punta Leona
Punta Leona is home to one of the last remaining forests that are found in the transitional life zone between the rainforests of the Southwest and the dry forests of the Northwest. Created over 25 years ago to protect the region’s varied flora and fauna, the Punta Leona Refuge is a 300-hectare (750 acres) private nature reserve mainly consisting of lush primary and secondary forests.
Also functioning as a centre for bird and mammal research, this reserve is the habitat of over 330 migratory and native bird species. Home to rare and endangered Scarlet Macaw, the reserve is also the dwelling place of a number of indigenous birds and animals like the Marbled Wood Quail, the Three-wattled Bellbird, Hummingbirds, Toucans, Spider Monkeys, White-faced Monkeys, White-nosed Coatimundis, iguanas and a variety of beautiful butterflies.
Located near a pristine white sand beach, Punta Leona has three varied walking and hiking trails, all of which are easily accessible and perfect for bird watching.
Day 6 Curú National Wildlife Refuge / Isla Tortuga
Curú National Wildlife Refuge is a privately-owned nature reserve offering visitors outstanding eco-tourism experiences. The refuge is the first privately-owned refuge in Costa Rica, encompassing more than 3,700 acres of tropical forests, mangroves, and well-marked paths. 17 hiking trails wind through the varied terrain within the reserve, where you may see white-tail deer, armadillos and iguanas. Various monkey species are prolific within refuge including native capuchin, spider, and howler monkeys. Located on the southern Nicoya Peninsula of north-western Costa Rica, the refuge is brimming with wildlife and hosts one of the most beautiful beaches and protected bays on the Nicoya Peninsula, a great place to enjoy water activities.
Afterwards, enjoy lunch on board as you sail to nearby Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island), where you can snorkel, swim, paddle or relax. The water is teeming with a dizzying array of tropical fish, big pufferfish, turtles, sting rays, white tip reef sharks, and occasionally dolphins.
This evening, celebrate a memorable journey at Captain’s Farewell reception.
Day 7 Disembark Puntarenas, transfer to San Jose
Disembark in Puntarenas, where you'll farewell your expedition team before transferring to San Jose.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing San Jose prior to 12.00 pm. Please advise your departure flight information to your reservations consultant.
Inclusions
- All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary.
- One night’s hotel accommodation in San Jose, including breakfast, on Day 1.
- On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service.
- All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
- Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner.
- Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
- All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services from Expedition Team.
- Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
- Wi-Fi*.
*Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
Exclusions
- International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
- Hotel accommodation and meals unless specified in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
- Optional activity surcharges.
- All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, wi-fi, email or phone charges.
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Included Activities
Bird watching
Lectures on wildlife, our environment, history and destinations
Near shore cruises
Photography
Trips ashore
Walking
Whale and mammal spotting
Zodiac cruises
Add-on Activities
Snorkelling in Antarctica Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth. Through crystal clear waters you’ll discover the …
Snorkelling
Snorkelling in Antarctica
Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth. Through crystal clear waters you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!
With a longstanding tradition of pushing the boundaries, AE Expeditions launched our Antarctic snorkelling adventures in 2014. This unique experience will allow passengers to see both destinations in a completely new dimension, witnessing wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth.
This latest innovative activity option is led by our expert polar diving guides, and utilises state of the art equipment including drysuits, gloves, hood, fins, mask, and snorkel. Passengers will be provided with all of the training and equipment they need to experience Antarctica from this truly unique angle.
Passengers who take part will enjoy the opportunity to snorkel daily (weather dependent), taking delight in sheltered bays, off shore islands and secluded ship wrecks which make for spectacular wildlife viewing.
Our Guides
Our team of experienced guides have over 20 years’ experience will provide snorkellers with detailed briefings and best practice procedures to ensure a safe snorkelling experience.
How to Book
Simply inform our Expedition Experts at the time of booking that you would like to add the optional snorkelling activity to your expedition. Places are limited. Polar snorkelling requires at least 6 snorkellers for the activity to proceed. Please ask our team for numbers at time of booking.
Polar Snorkelling
Through crystal clear waters, you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!
Tropical Snorkelling
Snorkel among a kaleidoscope of coral reefs brimming with brightly-coloured tropical fish or perhaps swim with curious sea lions.
Temperate Snorkelling
Discover a mysterious kelp forest where timid creatures seek refuge, encounter curious sea otters or if you’re very lucky, hold your breath in the presence of a majestic whale.
FAQs: Snorkelling in Antarctica
Snorkellers must be 14 or over.
While snorkeling in Antarctica, you’ll witness the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice. As well as beautifully sculpted icebergs below the water and a wide range of marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish, and nudibranchs.
AE Expeditions launched its Antarctic snorkeling adventures in 2014. This innovative activity allows passengers to experience snorkeling Antarctica from a unique perspective, witnessing wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on Earth.
For snorkeling in Antarctica, AE Expeditions provides state-of-the-art equipment including drysuits, gloves, hoods, fins, masks, and snorkels. All necessary training and equipment are included to ensure the highest level of safety and an unforgettable polar snorkeling experience.
Expeditioners can enjoy the opportunity to snorkel daily, weather-dependent. The snorkeling in Antarctica takes place in sheltered bays, offshore islands, and secluded shipwrecks, offering spectacular wildlife viewing and calm waters.
To book snorkeling in Antarctica, inform our Expedition Experts that you would like to add the optional snorkeling activity to your expedition when booking your expedition. Polar snorkeling requires at least six snorkelers for the activity to proceed. Please check with the team for availability and numbers during the booking process.
Embrace the Adventure: Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Costa Rica If you want to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time, you …
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Embrace the Adventure: Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Costa Rica
If you want to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time, you can paddle in protected bays, over coral reefs in warmer waters on our Costa Rica and The Panama Canal expedition. More experienced paddlers can enjoy the larger waves on beaches.
The experience of stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) in one of the most biologically intense regions of the world both above and under the water is guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle above vibrant coral reefs, or drift quietly under the backdrop of lush rainforests.
Rather than travelling large distances, our aim is to see as much as possible. We paddle anywhere between 2.5-5 km / 1-2 mi. (2 to 4 hours) per outing, sometimes taking a snack and a cool drink to enjoy on our excursion.
Our group of up to 8 paddlers generally visit the same wildlife sites as our fellow expeditioners. However, the shallow draft of our boards means that we also have the opportunity to access areas that are often not accessible by Zodiacs.
The warm aqua-blue waters are perfect for spotting manta rays, dolphins, turtles and whales. The elements play an important role in any paddle outing so it is important to understand that our paddleboarding time may be affected by the weather that we experience
We offer small, guided, intimate groups a chance to take SUP paddling to the next level. Weather permitting, we will offer daily outings with a support Zodiac. We provide waterproof day packs to carry our cameras and spare clothing to make the most of our excursions above the water and on shore.
Each group of three to eight paddlers generally visit the same wildlife or historic sites as our fellow expeditioners. However, our smaller craft (SUP) and manoeuvrability often means that we also have the opportunity to access areas that are often not accessible by Zodiacs. We will also make time to do some shore landings with the rest of the group.
Our Tropical trips are the perfect time to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time. We just require you to be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit.
You do not need to be an expert, however, you are required to be able to swim. For beginners, we will paddle in protected bays, over coral reefs in warmer waters on our Costa Rica and Panama Canal expedition. More experienced paddlers can enjoy the larger waves on beaches.
You should be fit enough to paddle for up to two hours at a time to take full advantage of this activity, and climb between moving Zodiacs on the water. Regular exercise is recommended, as the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the experience. The more paddles you can do before the trip, the better (we recommend at least 3 to 4 outings prior to your voyage) if you plan on taking full advantage of this complimentary activity.
In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season. The shoulder season begins in May, bringing increased humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 °C (80- 96 °F). Winds are generally light at this time of year.
The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 °C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. We will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
For our Costa Rica and Panama Canal voyages Stand-up Paddleboarding is a complimentary activity, pre-booking is not required!
Top reasons to choose a Stand-Up Paddleboarding holiday
See wildlife unobtrusively
SUPs are one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from curious marine life to diverse birds.
Better access
Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can't reach.
Make friends
Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.
It's fun!
Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.
Gallery
FAQs
Paddle boarders must be 14 or over.
- SUP board, leash & paddle
- Neoprene boots
- Safety gear
- A dry bag
- PFD (Life jacket)
Our guides have many years of stand-up paddleboarding experience in the destinations we visit. The paddleboarding guide will lead the group on each excursion, explaining facts about the wildlife and other highlights we paddle across.
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Paddling The thrill of visiting wild and remote regions on an expedition to Antarctica, Costa Rica and the scattered isles of …
Paddling
Paddling
The thrill of visiting wild and remote regions on an expedition to Antarctica, Costa Rica and the scattered isles of western Scotland is elevated when you’re actively immersed in the environment. In our inflatable kayaks, you can paddle safely among brash ice and along rocky shorelines where penguins and fur seals might be sunning themselves.
It’s a unique opportunity to remain fully immersed in your surroundings, at water level in your sturdy kayaks. You might see Adélie penguins darting around you or, perhaps, an Antarctic fur seal slipping off its rock as you glide past. Your experienced guides will look for wonderful opportunities for you to enjoy a paddle, and hopefully push you beyond your comfort zone, safely.
‘Getting out amongst it’ is our philosophy, and that is exactly what we do. When you sign up as a paddler, you have the bonus of enjoying normal landings along with other expeditioners, plus an added paddling excursion.
In a small group of up to six paddlers, you will have a Zodiac dedicated to your group and two guides to look after you and to scout out ideal locations to enjoy a fun paddle.
When we visit the polar regions, the elements play an important role. Our Paddling program is suitable for complete beginners, and we will only offer a paddling excursion in calm conditions. Bring along your adventurous and positive attitude and you will have an unforgettable experience.
Our Paddling Activity is suitable for novices and no prior experience is required to participate. However, you must be able to swim independently for up to 25 metres and be confident in the water.
You must be able to walk on loose, uneven surfaces such as gravel or pebble beaches. You must also be able to get into your inflatable kayak at knee level. Although our Paddling activity requires no prior experience to participate, you are more likely to enjoy the experience more if you are mildly fit and undertake some regular gentle exercise at home, such as walking.
Polar regions
During summer the air temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula, Greenland and Spitsbergen are generally above freezing but can range from -4°C to +5°C / 24.8°F to 41°F. The water temperature in the polar regions is close to freezing and winds sweep off the glaciers, making paddling a chilling experience. In South Georgia, there are stronger winds and swells than in Antarctica. Scotland, Iceland, Norwegian coasts are warmer with water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F.
Temperate regions
The northern waters are warmer than the polar regions but water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F mean you may opt to wear your paddle jacket on a warm, sunny day or our dry suits on a cool day. Surf landings are not likely, but you must be capable of paddling in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 20 knots. With that being said, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
Tropical regions
In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season. The shoulder season begins in May, bringing increased humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 °C (80- 96 °F). Winds are generally light at this time of year. The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 °C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. Again, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
The Paddling activity is available for an additional surcharge and includes guided excursions and paddling equipment. Fares for this activity are US$640 for all applicable Antarctica voyages, or for Wild Scotland voyage: US$580, AU$800, £440 or €250.
Prices are indicative only and are variable. They are calculated based on the days of voyage, ability to carry out the activity and exchange rates.
Kayaking & Paddling FAQs
Yes, you will be supplied with a drybag for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. You are also welcome to bring along your own 5-10 litre drybag for personal items.
Paddlers should be aged 14 or over.
Yes, but we highly recommend a waterproof camera or phone, or a good quality waterproof case. Pelican cases are highly recommended for good cameras. A 1300 or 1400 model Pelican case is well suited for this activity if your camera and lens combination fit. However, you may be able to strap a larger case onto the back deck of the kayak.
Our paddling activity is generally done in combination with a shore landing and we paddle close to shore. Your group will have a dedicated safety Zodiac, and your guide will be in constant radio contact with our ship captain and expedition leader if additional support is required.
The inflatable kayaks are made of a soft multi layer pvc plastic and are easily paddled through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.
Travel insurance including emergency evacuation coverage, is mandatory on all AE Expeditions voyages. You will need to ensure that your insurance policy covers you for your activity and any related equipment. An additional policy or premium
may be required to ensure you have adequate coverage. Please contact us if you need assistance with your insurance policy.
No. Each paddling place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to ‘share’ a kayaking place as the kayaks and drysuits are individually issued and fitted for the duration of the voyage.
It is your choice how often you want to paddle. If you decide to spend more time during a landing to explore ashore, you just need to let your guide know in advance. However, we do encourage you to get out as much as you can! Please note that the activity surcharge is non-refundable and we are unable to assist you if you change your mind once on board. If you decide to fully cancel your participation in the activity during the voyage, please be aware that you will not be entitled to a refund – neither partially nor fully. Contact our team for further details on our paddling cancellation policy.
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*Terms & Conditions apply. Valid on select ship voyages only. Offer is valid on new bookings only aboard the Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle or Douglas Mawson which must be booked and deposited by 31 December 2024. Promotion is subject to availability at the time of booking and capacity controlled. The promotion is only available in conjunction with the back to back voyage discount or the loyalty program offer, and not available with any other offer. The promotion can be withdrawn at any time and is not redeemable for cash. Normal booking terms and conditions apply. To confirm your booking, a completed booking form and non-refundable deposit of $2,500 pp in the booking currency is required within 7 days of reserved berth/s. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please see full terms and conditions.
^Terms & Conditions apply. Additional 5% discount valid on both voyages but two voyages must connect back to back in terms of dates to be eligible. Offer is valid on new bookings only aboard the Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle. Promotions are subject to availability at the time of booking and capacity controlled. The promotion is only available in conjunction with early bird voyage discount or the loyalty program offer, and not available with any other offer. The offer can be withdrawn at any time and are not redeemable for cash. Normal booking terms and conditions apply. Please see full terms and conditions.