Itinerary
February 15-22, 2012
DAY 1: LIBERIA, COSTA RICA
Our expedition starts in Liberia. The first day has no planned
activities allowing a flexible arrival to Costa Rica. We will meet in
the evening for introductions and a welcome session. We can provide a
variety of recommendations for meals within walking distance of the hotel as
well as recommend daytime activities.
(No meals included)
DAY 2: LIBERIA - ARENAL
After breakfast, we will stop at a gorgeous, secluded waterfall that spans
45 feet and drops 30 feet into a white-sand pond surrounded by lush
greenery. Then we proceed to the province of Alajuela to explore the Arenal
area. Arenal volcano is Costa Rica's most active volcano, and one of the ten
most active volcanoes in the world. The area is also a birder’s paradise. If
that isn’t enough, spectacular views of Lake Arenal can be seen from our
accommodations. Given clear skies and favorable conditions, capture Arenal
spewing rock and ash during the day and molten lava in the evening.
(Don't worry, our lodge is considered one of the safest places from which to
view the volcano.) There are multiple trails winding through flowers and
tropical forests and of course troops of howler monkeys are sure to be
heard. Our volcano-view accommodations include a swimming pool and Jacuzzi,
hanging bridges, waterfall and extensive nature trails.
(Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included)
DAY 3: ARENAL & LA FORTUNA
We begin our day with a 2 mile guided nature hike through primary rainforest while traversing a network of hanging bridges. It’s not uncommon to see monkeys, dart frogs and a variety of colorful birds.
La Fortuna is a nearby city with one of the most photographed churches in
the country. We will have lunch, wander around the main square and
search for the perfect souvenir, if desired.
We’ll head back to our
accommodations for a sunset shoot and jungle pizza.
(Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)
DAY 4: ARENAL - LA ANITA RAINFOREST RANCH
After another morning exploring the private trails, learning how to photograph hummingbirds or relaxing by the pool, we will depart for the Rincon de la Vieja area stopping for lunch as we make our way along Lake Arenal. We¹ll take in the evening sunset, have a nice dinner and enjoy Costa Rican hospitality.
Worldesigns believes that eating is one of life’s greatest pleasures so be prepared to experience Costa Rica cuisine throughout the tour. We’ve spent many hours searching for restaurants that provide quality Costa Rican food made from the freshest ingredients.
Pablo and Ana are our gracious hosts at La Anita Rainforest Ranch. You can
relax on this working agricultural farm and tropical research facility;
learn about the biological diversity of Costa Rica and the ecological
importance of the rainforest. Wildlife is abundant and views of the 3
volcanoes that surround us, breathtaking. Gourmet meals are served family
style al fresco on the deck.
(Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)
Day 5: LA ANITA RAINFOREST RANCH
Our friend Aracelly and her family open their home to us and she prepares lunch over a wood-burning stove. You can participate in the preparation of today’s lunch for a nominal fee. This opportunity to see what it is like to live in a remote village is not readily available through most tours.
The remainder of the day will be spent exploring the town, learning about
macro photography in the tropical flower fields of La Anita, playing
Pétanque (similar to Bocci) or relaxing on the front porch of your private
cabin. Optionally you can experience a zipline tour (nominal fee) or the
healing mineral waters and volcanic mud spa of Miravalles (included in tour
price).
(Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)
DAY 6: LA ANITA – PLAYA JUNQUILLAL
Our day begins at a nearby lodge for a home-cooked breakfast with delicious Costa Rican coffee, fresh eggs and fruit, homemade cheese and Rosalba’s signature rice and beans. Wander around the property for a view of a typical Costa Rican farm and feed the resident toucans.
Today we travel to the final destination on our tour. Playa Junquillal is often called one of Guanacaste province’s best-kept secrets with its pristine beach and tranquil surroundings. We will have access to a private network of nature trails in a dry forest, a saltwater pool, exercise facility, tennis court and Jaccuzzi while staying 5 minutes from the beach. There are great surfing and swimming beaches nearby. (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)
DAY 7: PLAYA JUNQUILLAL
Our last full day is flexible and will ultimately depend on the number of participants and their interests. That’s the beauty of a small group tour. After a full week of adventure, it may be time for some R&R. We may enjoy our morning at the private pool or public beach, relax in the Jacuzzi, walk the nature trails or focus on your photography with assistance from the instructors. We can also arrange for a private massage in your room.
If you’re not ready to relax just yet, we can venture to Playa Grande or one of the other prime surfing beaches. Action photography is a great way to spend the morning. Optionally, jump into the surf and take a surf lesson. There is a mangrove estuary you may wish to explore during a guided kayak tour. After a sunset shoot, we will share another delicious dinner and some images from the trip. (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)
Note: Additional fees apply for massage, surfing lesson and kayak tour.
DAY 8: DEPART FOR AIRPORT
After breakfast we will leave for the Liberia airport. Depending on your departure time, you may have time to explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park or stop briefly for the last minute souvenir shopping. (Breakfast)
This itinerary is subject to change. With the flexibility of the 4-wheel drive vehicles and multiple guides, your vacation can be modified to include other activities of interest. Volunteer drivers have preference for itinerary changes.
During the February Tour, special morning instruction sessions are included. You may opt to participate or sleep in. Topics can be found on the INSTRUCTION page. There will also be field instruction and one-on-one instruction by our professional photographers. On select evenings we will share some photographs taken during the day and provide tips on how to improve your images. Bring 10-15 of your favorite images for a portfolio review.The itinerary has been designed to delight both photographers and non-photographers. More importantly it is meant to give you a view of Costa Rica through the eyes of the locals.
