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COSTA RICA QUETZAL QUEST

San José, San Gerardo de Dota, Manuel Antonio, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde,
Playa Tamarindo

13 days / 12 nights for the real nature lover

Day 1. San Jose Hotel San Gildar.

Located at 1149m above sea level, maintaining an average all year round temperature of 24°C and home to the main museums and cultural centres: the Gold, Jade, National, Contemporary Art and Children's museum. Also the architectural jewel of Costa Rica The National Theatre, built in 1897 through a self-imposed coffee tax and reflecting European cultural influence. Dance halls and discos where tropical rhythms vibrate, as well as fashionable pubs are part of the San José's night atmosphere. San José is also the headquarters of the country's government and political life. Cultural activities, such as the theatre and contemporary dance, as well as academic activities are an integral part of an area that boasts high standards in education and health.

Hotel San Gildar Only 20 minutes away from the international airport. Services: 27 appointed rooms, with air conditioning, TV, telephone and bathroom. Facilities include: restaurant "Terraza del sol", the terrace "Rincon de la Vieja" and bar and swimming pool. Tropical gardens and a very pleasant atmosphere make you feel at home in the tropics.

Day 2. Trogon Lodge (4 to 5 hours)

Trogon Lodge is a farm of 105 acres, located at an altitude of 700 ft (2200mtrs) above sea level near El Cerro de la Muerte. This is the perfect hideaway for nature lovers, birdwatchers and those wanting to get away from it all. The cozy and relaxing ambiance of the Lodge makes you feel at home away from home. The misty and beautiful surroundings provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the views and sounds of the cloud forest as well as discover the wonders of Costa Rica's unspoiled ecology. Mystic, tranquil, quiet, romantic… the ideal hideaway to get away from it all. Personalized service in a small charming & quaint setting is what the hotel is known for.
The clean waters of the Savegre River run through the property with its waters on an endless travel through the rocks. One can feel right in heaven going to sleep with the nearby sounds of the river waters. The river hosts a large population of Rainbow trout and is a supply of portable water to the area.

The hotel features rooms with a private bathroom and hot water, a heating unit which is especially necessary on the area's chilly nights, and a view of the Savegre River or the forest.

For further information please visit: http://www.grupomawamba.com/trogonlodge/index.html

Day 3. San Gerardo de Dota. Trogon Lodge.

Free day at leisure to hike the trails or take a guided, optional tour.

Days 4, 5 & 6. Manuel Antonio National Park Hotel California (4 hours).

Drive by car. Enjoy a tropical rainforest lodge in a secluded setting. National Park Manuel Antonio. In this 682 hectare national park you will see beaches, islands offshore, lush rainforest with good trails, and may have close-up encounters with monkeys, sloth's and lots of birds. Manuel Antonio National Park attracts the visitor with tropical jungle that borders white sand beaches and blue-green waters. A splendid combination of nature experience and beach fun. The Hotel California, set on a mountain, surrounded by jungle, with awesome views of the Pacific Ocean, the Hotel is the perfect place to experience the peace of paradise and the thrill of local attractions. Lodging in Deluxe rooms - spacious rooms with balcony and great ocean views.
The area of Manuel Antonio offers restaurants, lodging and souvenir shops. Aside from the park, there are several activities that you can enjoy in the area. Horseback riding, volleyball, and sea kayaking are just a few. For further information please visit: http://www.hotel-california.com

Days 7 & 8. Arenal Volcano, Arenal Springs Hotel (6 hours).

A beautiful ride through mountains and typical small villages. Arenal volcano is the most active volcano in Costa Rica and with some luck you might be able to observe the red lava. This almost perfect cone, which soars 1,633 metres above sea level has a crater 140 metres deep formed over an ancient caldera. The best spot to enjoy these wonders are Tabacon Hot Springs (not included) a veritable thermal wonderland, where a hot volcanic stream is channeled in five pools of varying temperature.

Accommodation at Arenal Springs Hotel is wood and concrete bungalows with private bathroom and air conditioning. Surrounded by some of the most astonishing flora and fauna of Costa Rica you will be able to enjoy from your own porch with a perfect view to the volcano. For more information please visit www.hotelarenalsprings.com

Optional activities: Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, Tour To the Arenal Volcano and Tabacón Resort Hot Springs, Sport Fishing in the Arenal Lake, Arenal Volcano Hike Tour, Mountain Biking, Venado Caves Tour, Horseback Riding to Arenal Volcano, Peñas Blancas Safari Float.

Day 9. Monteverde Cloud Forest, Trapp Family Lodge. Superior Room. (4 to 5 hours).

Enjoy one of the most enchanting and overwhelming experiences inside the cloud forest. There are nature trails that will guide you through this breath-taking journey. You may want to get up early to visit the cloud forest. A walk through the misty wood is a magical experience. The huge forest is overgrown with bromeliads, orchids, ferns, deer horns as well as moss and the beautiful red-green feathered quetzal breeds here. Founded in the 1950's by a group of Quakers from the U.S., Monteverde has gained international renown as one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the tropics. The reserve spreads out over 10,500 hectares of land that hold six different life zones. The climate and terrain of the preserve produce an incredible bio-diversity. There are at least 400 bird species in this high elevation rain forest, including the Resplendent Quetzal, ancient holy bird of the Mayans, over 100 species of mammals, 120 species of amphibians and reptiles and an estimated 2,500 species of plants making Monteverde a true "nature lover's paradise". Delicate orchids, more than 400 species, grace the limbs of majestic trees. Their captivating colors of whites, lilacs, and yellows contrast with the emerald green of the forest.
The Trapp Family Lodge is the closest lodge to Monteverde Reserve Costa Rica (a 15 minute walk, great for bird watching), this cozy inn pays tribute to its setting with beautiful tropical wood appointments, private balcony in each guest room and a family-style restaurant fronted by huge picture windows and a balcony overlooking gardens and verdant rain forest. Set in a small private reserve, the lodge is ideal for families or anyone appreciative of a warm, homey atmosphere and a convenient location just a few minutes walk from the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Exotic rainforest vegetation surrounds the property on all sides, and many activities await nearby. It is an ideal home away from home in this fascinating area of Costa Rica.

Day 10. Monteverde Cloud Forest. Trapp Family Lodge.

Free day at leisure to continue with the Quetzal Quest. Visit this world famous cloud forest, the hummingbird gallery, the Skywalk, or get into adventure with a canopy tour.

Day 11, 12 & 13. Tamarindo. Hotel Tamarindo Diria. Sunset Ocean Room. (5 hours).

Located on the Northwestern shoreline of Costa Rica, Tamarindo is a charming fishing town of 1,000 inhabitants. The picturesque region opens a doorway to the romance and serenity of flat lands, green mountains and rich foliage. Because of the unique climate the region boasts a tremendous diversity of terrain from dense rain forests to airy deciduous forests, towering active volcanoes to lush sugarcane fields and thick lagoons to unburdened beaches. The natural wonders of this region are so astonishing that, for a moment, you forget the world you have left behind once you have crossed the threshold into nature's playground.

Hotel Tamarindo Diria is set on the beach, this hotel is a place where the staff are as friendly as the weather. The blue ocean seems to be a part of the tropical gardens. All the services and comfort that you deserve are provided here at one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. The Hotel Tamarindo Diria is the ideal place to spend a peaceful yet exciting vacation on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Tamarindo Diria Beach Hotel offers 113 rooms and 14 condominiums all finely decorated, surrounded by tropical gardens, spacious and air conditioned. Tamarindo Diria Hotel also has two spectacular pools, one of them is the biggest in the Tamarindo Beach area and one of the country's best. These great swimming facilities are surrounded by lush tropical gardens fronted by the ocean.

At Tamarindo Diria Beach Hotel your will find the best services and comfort, combining elements of Guanacaste province's rich culture and the luxury of this elegant hotel. Here a relaxing vacation is guaranteed on one of Costa Rica's best beaches. The hotel honors the Chorotegan Indian leader, Cacique Diria, for whom it is named. The elegance and size of this high quality establishment makes it a leader in its field, and the quality of attention to service is a step above the rest. Spend some time under the palms in this paradise by the sea.
Accommodation in Sunset Ocean Deluxe room.

Day 14. Self drive to San Jose. Drop Off car and accommodation at Hotel San Gildar.

Day 15. Transfer to the International Airport. Return flight home

RATE WITH A RENTAL CAR (DAIHATSU BEGO):

(£765 per person)
Rate High Season 2007 - 08
(November 1, 2007 - April 30, 2008)

(£665 per person)
Rate Special Season 2008
(May 1 - October 31, 2008 Except July and August)

(£695 per person)
Rate Green Season 2008
(July 1 - August 31, 2008)

Additional fees apply in bookings within December 21, 2007 & January 2, 2008
and within March 17-23, 2008

Includes:

1. Information with roadmaps, vouchers, practical information etc.
2. Accommodation for 14 nights in described hotels or similar. Local taxes & breakfast are included.
3. 13 days Car rental four-wheel drive Daihatsu BEGO with free mileage and taxes included. Basic Insurance is NOT included (US $ 18.00 per day). CELL PHONE DEVICE WITH FREE LOCAL CALLS.
4. Airport transfer upon arrival and departure.

Remarks:

1. Excursions and options mentioned are optional and not included.
2. Basic car insurance ($ 18.00 per day) not included.
3. $ 750,00 deductible, rental only by valid credit card and drivers license
4. Park entrance fees and meals are not included.
5. Airfares and airport tax not included.

Terms and conditions rental car Costa Rica:

Ø Standard hiring includes: free mileage, local taxes, Costa Rica map (simple).
Ø Not included: gas, mandatory basic insurance CDW (Collision Damage Waiver - damage to the car) and LDW (Theft Protection) $ 750.00 deductible and damage to third parties 20% with a cost of US $ 18.00 per day.
Ø Valid credit card required holder head driver (VISA / MasterCard / American Express, Diner's club)
Ø Recommended valid credit card holder secondary driver.
Ø Available Zero Deductible additional insurance ( Total Insurance ), including CDW (without own risk), without damage to third parties. With a cost of US $ 10.00, the rental car company will freeze US $ 100.00 from your credit car refundable once the rental car is returned.
Ø Optional second driver charge (US$ 2.00 per Day).
Ø Minimum rental car days: 3 days ; Minimum age: 21 year old.
Ø The rental car company will freeze US $ 750.00 refundable (only US $ 100.00 if you purchase the Total Insurance additional) to cover eventual damages.

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