PACUARE COSTA RICA ADVENTURE
9 DAYS-8 NIGHTS
Visit us at www.wildland.com
Itinerary Overview
From the thrill and exhilaration of rafting one of most wild and scenic tropical rivers to the
peace and serenity of a beachside casita, experience the best of the rainforests, rivers, exotic
wildlife and beaches of Costa Rica. Raft down the Pacuare River, passing through spectacular
canyons and crystal clear waterfalls into the heart of this lush and verdant rainforest wilderness.
Based from the award-winning Pacuare Lodge, by day you’ll hike, kayak, zip-line or share life
experiences with a traditional Cabecar Indian shaman; by night, enjoy dinner by candlelight and
retire to the luxurious comfort of your rainforest bungalow. Emerging from the lowland jungles,
the adventure continues in the highland cloud forests surrounding the active Arenal Volcano.
Explore the forest canopy with naturalist guides skilled at spotting the abundant wildlife
including spider and howler monkeys and an incredible variety of colorful tropical bird species.
Complete your Costa Rica adventure at a spectacular Pacific beach where you can snorkel, surf
or simply kick your feet up and do nothing at all!
DAY
OVERNIGHT
1
ARRIVE
2
PACUARE RESERVE
3
PACUARE RESERVE
4
ARENAL VOLCANO
5
ARENAL VOLCANO
6
HOTEL
MEALS
Hotel
Grano de Oro
--
Pacuare Lodge
Pacuare Lodge
Arenal Nayara
BLD
BLD
BLD
Arenal Nayara
BLD
NORTH
PACIFIC BEACH
Pacific Beach
Hotel
B
7
NORTH PACIFIC
BEACH
Pacific Beach
Hotel
B
8
NORTH PACIFIC
BEACH
Pacific Beach
Hotel
B
9
DEPARTURE
--
B
HIGHLIGHTS
Arrival and transfer to hotel
Rafting Pacuare class II-III
rapids with side hikes
Day at leisure in Pacuare
Reserve
Rafting Pacuare class III-IV
rapids with side hikes
Hanging bridges, Vida
Campesina Farm, hot springs
Fly to chosen beach
accommodation, possible
stop in San Jose
Optional activities available.
Surfing lesson included for
children and teens.
Beach day at leisure.
Transfer to San Jose for intl
departure or begin extension.
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-2-
Itinerary In Detail
DAY 1: SAN JOSE
Arrive at San Jose Juan Santamaria International Airport and transfer to the charming Hotel
Grano de Oro, a renovated stately mansion built at the turn of the century and updated with the
comforts and amenities of a modern hotel. Hotel Grano de Oro is located on a quiet street
near many fine restaurants, theaters and shops. Enjoy a tropical beverage in their open-air
jacuzzi and be sure to try the chocolate cake!
DAY 2: PACUARE RIVER RAFTING - CLASS III RAPIDS
Today you’ll float one of the most scenic tropical rivers in the
world and venture into the primeval rainforest to your home
for the next two days: the Pacuare Lodge. After an early
morning pick-up stop for an authentic Costa Rican-style
breakfast at a family run restaurant overlooking the lovely
Orosi Valley.
Designated “Wild and Scenic,” the Pacuare River flows deep
into an ancient and protected rainforest, winding its way
through scenic canyons full of dense green vegetation and
home to jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and numerous
other species of mammals and birds. After a review of safety
precautions embark on your rafting adventure (approx. 1.5
hours). The river alternates between the thrill and
exhilaration of Class II-III white water rapids and the peace
and serenity of placid green water as you pass tumbling
waterfalls and listen to the calls of exotic rainforest wildlife.
Perched on the banks of the turquoise river and enveloped by the rainforest, the palm-thatched,
open-air bungalows of Pacuare Lodge are designed to blend into its natural surroundings with
minimal impact while providing touches of luxurious natural comforts. The open-air restaurant
features delicious gourmet cuisine and guests can relax in the cozy open-air lounge on wicker
sofas and hammocks while recounting the adventures of the day. Completely off the grid, the
charm and romance of the lodge is enhanced by its thatched bungalows tucked into the tropical
foliage featuring plush couches, arm chairs and a king-sized canopy bed, bathrooms with solarheated indoor and outdoor showers, and a large private deck with hammocks complete with a
dipping pool fed by spring water. Overnight at Pacuare Lodge. [BLD]
DAY 3: PACUARE RESERVE
After being soothed to sleep by the sounds of the gurgling river and thousands of tree frogs, you
awake to a symphony of bird song as the jungle comes to life in the morning. Enjoy a delicious
breakfast of home-made bread, tropical fruits, yogurt, eggs, pancakes, cereal and juice and
coffee. After breakfast, choose from a number of optional adventurous activities (at additional
cost) including hiking to the Cabecar Indigenous Private Reserve, zip lining, horseback riding,
canyoneering, river kayaking or, if you’d rather relax, a therapeutic massage. Overnight at
Pacuare Lodge. [BLD]
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-3-
DAY 4: PACUARE RIVER RAFTING - CLASS IV
RAPIDS
Today’s rafting adventure (approx. 3.5 hours) is
interspersed with stops for a picnic lunch and to hike
and explore side streams leading to spectacular
waterfalls and crystalline pools for swimming. Take in
the beauty of the densely vegetated, tropical river
canyon while paddling the calm sections of the river.
Feel the rush of adrenaline and sheer exhilaration as
you face the challenge of each large wave and battle
the surging Class III-IV rapids with names like Upper
and Lower Huacas, Cimarrones, and Two Mountains! Your Pacuare rafting adventure ends with
the triumph of having descended one of the most wild and scenic tropical rivers in the world. At
the river take-out, you’ll be met by your naturalist guide and change into dry clothes for the
scenic 3.5 hour drive to Arenal. Overnight at Arenal Nayara. [BLD]
DAY 5: ARENAL VOLCANO – HANGING BRIDGES,
VIDA CAMPESINA AND HOTSPRINGS
Grab your camera, binoculars and water bottle for a
morning exploring the rainforest canopy led by your
guide on a series of hanging bridges winding through
the old growth forest surrounding the Arenal Volcano.
Look for an abundance of wildlife, including up to
250 species of birds and animals including the white
hawk, great curassow, rufous motmot as well as
howler monkeys, coatimundis, sloth and whitecollared peccary.
In the afternoon, visit the family-owned organic farm
Arenal Vida Campesina for a typical Tico lunch and to experience the daily life of a Costa Rican
farmer.
This day of adventure and cultural interaction concludes at La Fortuna Hotsprings, a piece of
paradise owned by Dona Mireya and her family. There are five creek-fed pools which are always
the perfect temperature for relaxing as the sun sets, after which we are treated to a delicious
home-style meals served in a rustic wooden rancho. Overnight at Arenal Nayara. [BLD]
DAY 6: NORTH PACIFIC BEACH
Today head to the beach! A private charter flight to San Jose connects with a Nature Air flight to
the north Pacific coast, known for its abundant sunshine, wide sandy beaches, great surf and
spectacular sunsets. You have three beach and hotel options to choose from depending on your
preferences and availability: Hotel Capitan Suizo at Tamarindo beach, Latitude 10 Resort Hotel
at Santa Teresa beach, or Hotel Punta Islita at Islita beach. Overnight at Hotel Capitan
Suizo, Latitude 10 Resort or Hotel Punta Islita. [B]
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-4-
DAYS 7 & 8: NORTH PACIFIC BEACH
Feel free to sleep in late or rise early to catch the early
morning surf as the next two days are yours to enjoy
at your leisure. If you’re looking for more adventure,
there are a plethora of active pursuits available
including snorkeling and kayaking tours, surf lessons
and hiking in several coastal national parks (optional
activities at additional cost). Or you may prefer to
simply relax, rejuvenate and spend the day lounging
on the beach, swimming in the pool and soaking in
the Costa Rican sun. (For family adventures, a 2 hour
surfing lesson is included for each child). Overnight at Hotel Capitan Suizo, Latitude 10
Resort or Hotel Punta Islita. [B]
DAY9: DEPARTURE OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Invigorated and relaxed after your Costa Rica adventure tour, gaze at the vast Pacific Ocean
before boarding short flight back to San Jose for your international departure or extend your
Costa Rica vacation.
Note: Your international departure must be scheduled after 12 noon in order to allow time for
your connect flight from the beach. Otherwise, we will make arrangements for an extra night
in San Jose with optional walking exploration of the city.
Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to
change accommodations to similar quality alternatives.
PRICING PER PERSON:
Guaranteed to depart with a minimum of 4 people paying full price.
STAYING AT HOTEL CAPITAN
SUIZO OR LATITUDE 10
ADULTS
TEENS** (12-16)
$3,650
$3,435
$2,965
$2,965
ADULTS
TEENS** (12-16)
High Season
Low Season
$3,850
$3,635
$3,165
$3,165
Single Supplement
$995
$340 LESS PER
High Season*
Low Season*
STAYING AT HOTEL PUNTA
ISLITA
Triple Credit
ROOM
* High Season: Dec 1-Apr 30 & Jul 1-Aug 30; Low Season: May 1-June 30 & Sept 1-Nov 30
**Sharing the room with 2 adults, maximum 2 teens per room
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-5-
INCLUDED SERVICES
 All guided tours and excursions as noted in itinerary
 National Park entrance fees
 English-speaking local naturalist guides for the tours included
 Private naturalist guide for the Arenal portion
 Airport-hotel transfers, internal air and land transportation
 Hotel accommodation and meals as indicated [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner]
 Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services
NOT INCLUDED SERVICES
 Optional activities and tours as indicated in itinerary
 International airfare
 Tips and gratuities
 Airport departure taxes
 Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than listed above
 Personal expenses for extra services, optional activities, or changes in your itinerary
beyond our control
 Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation
25 LB. PER PERSON BAGGAGE WEIGHT LIMIT ON DOMESTIC FLIGHTS AND SMALL BOATS
There is a 25 lb. per person baggage weight limit per person for transportation on domestic
airline flights and small boat trips within your itinerary plus a 10 pounds carry on limit
(including camera equipment). The airline and boat operators enforce these limitations on your
checked baggage for safety reasons. You and your small carry-on bag will be weighed separately.
To comply with these requirements, we suggest that you repack only the items needed for the
portion of your itinerary that includes these modes of transportation, and leave other items
behind in storage. Simply request your guide to store your excess luggage at the hotel. If you are
not returning to the same hotel, give your extra baggage to your transfer driver/guide to be
stored by your ground operator. Request that your luggage be brought to you upon your pick up
and return transfer from the plane or boat portion of your trip. Please ask your guide in Costa
Rica if you have any additional questions regarding this policy.
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-6-
Accommodations
HOTEL GRANO DE ORO, SAN JOSE
Hotel Grano de Oro is a renovated stately Victorian
mansion built at the turn of the century and updated
with the warmth and comfort of a private home. The
thirty-two individually styled rooms, common areas
and corridors are elegantly decorated with
watercolors, tapestries, and locally handcrafted
furniture creating charm and character in traditional
Latin American style and heritage. Hotel Grano de
Oro is one of the finest boutique hotels in Costa Rica
for its home-away-from-home charm and one we
always recommend for the best tours of Costa Rica. It is located on a quiet street near many fine
restaurants, theaters and shops. Meals are served in an intimate dining area and garden
courtyard. The open-air Jacuzzi on the rooftop garden terrace is a perfect spot to begin your
travel in Costa Rica, especially a Costa Rica honeymoon! Services offered by the hotel include
currency exchange, fax and mail service, in-room safes, wireless internet, room service, laundry
service, cable TV and international calls.
PACUARE JUNGLE LODGE, PACUARE RESERVE
Tucked away deep in the heart of Costa Rica’s most
pristine rainforest environment, on the banks of the
Pacuare River, lies the Pacuare Jungle Lodge.
Surrounded by nature in its purest and most
primitive state, here you will experience that most
coveted of travelers’ rewards, an opportunity to savor
the spirit of a place. The Pacuare Lodge nineteen
bungalows and main lodge were designed and
constructed to blend with the surrounding
environment, affecting minimal impact, and has been
recognized by the World Tourism Organization as
one of only sixty-five examples throughout the world of good practice in sustainability and
ecotourism. The Pacuare Lodge’s philosophy of simplistic luxury and oneness with nature is
enhanced by the romance of operating without electricity. Each features a canopy king size bed,
hardwood flooring, private veranda, and a spacious private bathroom adorned with brass
fixtures, private alfresco shower with solar heated water, and a nearly 360º rainforest view—all
within an area seemingly removed from time and the worries of the outside world.
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-7-
ARENAL NAYARA, ARENAL
A world of comfort and style surrounded by an
untouched natural paradise. Located in the outskirts of
one of the world's most amazing volcanoes, Arenal
Nayara Hotel & Gardens is the experience of a lifetime.
Each large, suite-sized bungalow provides ample space
and privacy, including a backyard, outdoor shower and
private front balcony. Bungalows include one king or
two full sized beds (with deluxe bedding), a plasma 27”
cable TV
and DVD/CD player, iPod stand, wireless
internet, safety box (laptop capacity), air conditioning,
private bathroom with hot water, backyard outdoor
shower, stocked mini fridge, coffee maker, front
balcony overlooking the volcano, private outdoor
volcano-view Jacuzzi.
NORTH PACIFIC HOTEL OPTIONS
CAPITÀN SUIZO, TAMARINDO BEACH
On a regular basis the hotel conducts activities for the
guests to become acquainted with Costa Rican
culture. There are atmospheric evenings with
Marimba music, folkloric dance performances by local
students, as well as occasions where the
manufacturing of local craft is shown which is also
offered for sale. All rooms benefit from a balcony or
terrace, overlook tropical gardens and face towards
the ocean. With a freeform swimming pool, an
internet corner, a gift shop and a fenced in parking lot
Capitan Suizo has everything you need to comfortable relax and enjoy your beach holidays. But
with comfort comes responsibility, out of respect and sympathy towards the culture, the
traditions and the character of this country, (which succeeded to place 25% of its total area into
conservation). At present the hotel work with conviction and commitment on the project for the
certification for sustainable tourism (CST). As part of this project the hotel supports a nonprofit
organization which works towards the improvement of national parks along with other projects
like reforestation and the production or and use only of organic fertilizer.
PUNTA ISLITA, ISLITA BEACH
A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World,
Punta Islita is a cluster of Santa Fe style casitas
overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The beach is below the
lodge after a 10-min. walk or short shuttle ride.
Renowned for its soothing and relaxing atmosphere,
gourmet meals are served in the open air dining room
next to the cascade swimming pool. Rooms come
complete with air conditioning, open terraces, and
hammocks.
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-8-
LATITUDE 10 EXCLUSIVE BEACH RESORT, SANTA
TERESA BEACH
Tucked amongst the native vegetation, lie Latitude
10’s five casitas. Each private bungalow is uniquely
and luxuriously appointed, with its own personality
and vibe. The private casitas are constructed from
almond wood and decorated with local art and
handiwork. Each room has its own treasures for you
to discover and enjoy. The casitas were designed and
built by a award winning architect without any trees
being cut down. The wooden structures have shades
but no windows and there are no locks on the doors. The bathrooms are completely open-air
with large hot water showers and gardens. It is more than a lovely room, it is a structure
enabling you to sleep and reside completely in harmony with nature. Porches with cozy chairs
and hammocks, ceiling fans, safe deposit boxes, and a twice-daily housekeeping service add to
your comfort. In the evening, we will pull down the shades, light candles, burn incense, and dim
the lights. Our turndown service paired with the sounds of nature provides a very tranquil and
very Costa Rican experience. Room includes open sky bathrooms, ceiling fans, outdoor deck /
sitting area, safe deposit box.
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-9-
Important information about Pacuare Lodge
Luggage instructions Maximum weight per person: 25 pounds (12 kilograms)
The following is a list of equipment which should be packed separately for the Pacuare
Adventure; this will be rafted to the Pacuare Lodge inside dry bags which the lodge provides.
The Lodge will gladly store the rest of your luggage in the warehouse located in the river take out
during your tour; on the last day of your trip you will have all your stuff as soon as you get out of
the river.
For the tour’s timeliness, we kindly ask that you have your river equipment packed
separately from the rest of your luggage at the time of pick-up in your hotel. *Bags
over the size or weight allowance will incur in an additional fee of $30 per bag
Recommended River Clothing and Equipment List Two Day Pacuare Adventure
1. 1 pair of shorts to wear when rafting
2. 1 T-shirt or light cotton long-sleeved shirt for rafting
3. 1 pair of outdoor type shoes for hiking and for use on the lodge grounds
4. 1 pair of tennis shoes or sandals suitable for rafting
5. 1 light cap with wide brim or visor for sun
6. 2 light shirts; cotton, long sleeved for lodge
7. 2 pairs of light cotton hiking trousers; jeans okay, but not recommended, because of
weight and drying time
8. 1 sweater or sweatshirt
9. 1 windbreaker; unlined Anorak, shell type, which can be tied around your waist
10. 3 sets of underwear
11. 3 pairs of socks
12. 1 spare pair of glasses, if you wear prescription lenses
13. Sunscreen or sun block
14. Insect repellent
15. Toiletry kit; no aerosols
16. Medications
Optional Accessories
1. Waterproof camera (for rafting) or regular camera (with waterproof case, for hiking and
lodge)
2. Plastic bags of various sizes (heavy-duty ziplock for film, books and small items)
3. Sunglasses
4. Binoculars
At River Take-out you will be able to shower and change into dry clothes at our private facilities.
Long pants, a shirt and light jacket/sweatshirt are recommended for the ride back to Arenal.
**Important Notice for Guests stowing luggage at Pacuare Lodge offices*
Up to the present we have never had any problems with theft at the river take out warehouse in
Siquirres, however, and from this point on, Wildland Adventures will not be held responsible for
any lost or stolen objects. Therefore we will require guests to securely padlock all luggage left at
their facilities.
It is also advisable for guests not to leave behind valuables or important documents. These
should best be taken to the Pacuare Lodge in ziplock plastic bags or similar (safety boxes are
provided at each bungalow). Additionally, guests who leave luggage at their facilities will be
asked to sign a form consenting to the above conditions.
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-10-
Booking your Wildland Adventure
HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP
You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling 1-800-345-4453. Your space on
a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers
must sign and submit a Release of Liability.
Deposit requirements are as follows:*
$500 per person for all trips in Central America.
$700 per person for all trips in South America, the Middle East, Asia and the Far East,
the Mediterranean and North America.
20% of land cost for all trips in Africa. This deposit is generally non-refundable.
*Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if
permits to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance.
CUSTOM TRAVEL
This trip isn’t exactly what you’re looking for? We are happy to design a private custom itinerary
to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at 1-800-3454453, send an email to [email protected], or use the Ask The Program Director button on the
trip itinerary page on our website.
PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS
Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before
departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any
additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels
and local operators:
Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person
91 or more: $300
61-90 days: Initial deposit amount
31-60 days:
50% of land cost
30 or less:
100% of land cost
PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES
Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive
Pre-departure Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including
immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural
information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including
Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS
Have any questions or concerns? Call us a 1-800-345-4453 or email [email protected]. We’re
here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services
of local in-country ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges,
hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in
the itinerary. It is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and
unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants
must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-11-
risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not
included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler’s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage,
accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred
hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar
quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are
subject to our Terms and Conditions
Wildland Adventures | Pacuare Costa Rica Adventure | www.wildland.com
-12-