Costa Rica: Nature & Wildlife

Day 1: It's a Jungle Out There

Immerse yourself in Monteverde's legendary cloud forest in a privately guided half-day hike. One of Costa Rica's main attractions, the massive 10,500 hectares of lush vegetation draws 70,000 tourists a year. This stunning reserve is home to the largest number of orchids in the world, with 34 of its 500 species only recently discovered. Venture deep into this incredible forest, where over 60 species of amphibians, including the golden toad, have been found. This area is also a stop for 91 species of migratory bird, including the resplendent quetzal. Meander through this tropical oasis, where the treeline seems to stretch up to the sky. Gain insight into the area's conservation efforts and how the preserve has succeeded as an ecotourism model based in biodiversity research and education. Make a stop at the hummingbird garden, where you can can observe more than 14 different species of hummingbirds. Rich in flora and fauna, the cloud forest of Monteverde is sure to delight.

Experience a truly elevated culinary adventure. Enjoy a decadent multi-course meal on the treetops of Monteverde in an unforgettable dining activity. This intimate and unique experience on the canopy offers a Costa Rican farm-to-table fusion dinner which includes locally-sourced tropical ingredients. Dine in an all-glass deck in the middle of the forest overlooking downtown Monteverde for one-of-a-kind views served with delicious fare. 

Day 2: Where the Wild Things Are

Meet your private driver and guide to explore the Curi-Cancha Reserve, nestled in the Arenal Tempisque conservation area of Monteverde. Sprawling across 205 acres, this verdant landscape is home to 50% of virgin forest, 45% secondary growth and 5% open pastures. Stroll through the Curi-Cancha's series of beautiful nature trails, taking in your picturesque surrounds. Trek through primary forest, secondary forest and open areas, marveling at the cloud forest's stunning flora and fauna. This incredible oasis invites you to immerse yourself in a fanciful world of colors and sounds. 

As twilight falls on Monteverde, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Monteverde Wildlife Refuge. Join your private guide as you explore a series of trails, learning about the diverse flora and fauna that call the reserve home. Species most commonly observed include sloths, olingos, coatis, agoutis, quetzals, bellbirds, toucans, hummingbirds and a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians and insects. Marvel at the symphony of sounds and sightings of elusive creatures that reveal themselves at night. 

Day 3: A Change of Scenery

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Punta Islita.

Savor pure Costa Rican adventure at Hotel Punta Islita. Surrounded by endless ocean, exuberant tropical forest and picturesque communities, there's no better place to enjoy a day of hiking, wildlife safaris, or traditional cooking lessons. From art sessions to monkey hikes, Hotel Punta Islita offers an extensive selection of complimentary activities to make your experience unforgettable. Soak up the sun in the outdoor infinity pool for guests 16 years of age and older, or spend some quality time in our beachside family pool. Renew your mind, body and soul at our on-site spa, offering a full menu of treatments, such as massages, manicures and body wraps. Additionally, you'll find unrivalled access to the Wild Scarlet Macaw Reserve, the Camaronal Sea Turtle Refuge, and nearby beach towns like Carrillo and Samara.

Day 4: Close Encounters

Set out to explore The Macaw Recovery Network and marvel at a streak of wild colored feathers painting the Guanacaste sky. Gain insight into the center's mission to recover endangered neotropical parrot populations and develop best practices for conservation. Join a small group tour and observe the center's wild flock of Scarlet Macaws as they fly in from the surrounding area for their morning or afternoon snack. Witness first-hand how a dedicated team of biologists can have such a positive impact on biodiversity. Visiting the Wild Scarlet Macaw Reserve offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers of all ages.

Day 5: Nurtured by Nature

Nestled in lush tropical gardens, Hotel Punta Islita's Casa Spa invites you to experience pure wellness and relaxation. From the moment you are greeted with a soothing cup of just-brewed herbal tea, you're sure to feel the warm glow of the spa's homelike ambiance. Beauty rituals, Costa Rican traditional healing arts, and local herbalist wisdom are artfully combined to gently relieve modern stress. Casa Spa's ample selection of treatments offers options for the whole family and includes massages, aromatherapy baths, and nourishing body wraps. Please note: Your treatment is not included and will be paid for on location. Reservations are confirmed at the time of booking and are subject to availability.

Experience an unforgettable adventure for all ages in a private sea turtle themed tour. Witness the captivating egg-laying ritual of endangered sea turtles nestled on Punta Islita beachfront. This nighttime experience takes place on nearby Camaronal Beach and invites you to search for turtles as they peacefully emerge from the ocean. Your guide will use a special red light to avoid disturbing them. Ideal for nature lovers, this tour runs seasonally between July to November and is made possible by Hotel Punta Islita's partnership with the Costa Rican Ministry of Environment and conservation NGO’s.

Day 6: A Well-Earned Break

The day is yours to spend adventuring or relaxing at Punta Islita Hotel. Take a plunge into the inviting waters of the infinity-edge freshwater pool. Treat yourself to ultimate pampering at the on-site spa. Sharpen your swing on the tennis courts, or simply soak up the sun's warmth on pristine beachfront.