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FAMILY WILDLIFE ADVENTURES |
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Cordilleras VolcanoesThe volcanic mountainous spine running down the centre of Costa Rica is made up of various cordilleras, or ranges. The furthest north is the Cordillera Guanacaste, then the corilleras of Tilaran, Central and finally on the border with Panama is the largest, Talamanca. Each one has its own volcanoes, some active, others dormant or extinct.
San JoseLocated in the Central Valley and enjoying a cool climate, Costa Rica’s busy capital city has seen most of its colonial architecture destroyed by earthquakes, and now consists of nondescript modern buildings, with a few exceptions such as the old market and the National Theatre. The gold and jade museums are well worth a visit, as is Inbio Parque, an exhibition of Costa Rican habitats which should delight children. When necessary to overnight here, we tend to use hotels on the city’s outskirts, greener and easier to access airports.
SavegreFound just off the high altitude Cerro de la Muerte (Hill of Death) road, this lush and secret valley contains the resplendent quetzal and much more bird life besides. Trees drip with mosses, orchids and bromeliads, and majestic tree ferns grow surprisingly tall – a classic cloud forest habitat. Long walks and horse rides can be enjoyed along forest trails to hidden waterfalls and beyond.
MonteverdeA far more busy and developed area of cloud forest than Savegre, the Quaker settlement of Monteverde is best known for its private reserve, where quetzals are often seen along with other high altitude birds. One may also cross the gentle SkyWalk canopy walkway, or ride the thrilling zip-lines of the SkyTrek (for older children), or perhaps visit the reptile exhibition and the hummingbird gallery.
Arenal VolcanoThis is the most frequently visited volcano in the country. The town of La Fortuna has grown to accommodate those attracted by one of the world’s most active and visible volcanoes. With clear weather and luck, you and your children can observe huge boulders rolling down the mountain side and spectacular nocturnal pyrotechnics, accompanied by loud booming noises: sights and sounds that will stay with you all for ever and give your children an enviable introduction to vulcanology. |
It would be very hard to beat this tour for its wide diversity and exceptional value. From the wildlife-rich lowland rainforests of the Caribbean coast, ascend to an historical ranch-cum-lodge at 11,000 feet to marvel at a forest-clad, active volcano whose crater can be reached by horse, bike or on foot. Lastly, travel to the dry forest zone of Nicoya and a well-run beach resort with great family villas, excellent food and friendly service. A fine recipe for good memories. Find out more... An itinerary for adventurous families with older children which reveals the best wildlife habitats to be found in Costa Rica. In the Caribbean rainforests you can discover sloths and colourful poison dart frogs; the iridescent resplendent quetzal lives high in the lush cloud forests of Savegre; howler, spider and squirrel monkeys inhabit the towering coastal rainforests of the Osa – the country’s wildest region. For wildlife-loving children (and parents) everywhere. Find out more... Certain exceptional locations have been perennially popular with families visiting Costa Rica: the active Arenal volcano, the Quaker settlement of Monteverde with its cloud forests and canopy tours, and Manuel Antonio, where the verdant jungle meets the golden Pacific shore (here you have a hire 4x4 car). We have brought all these together into one classic programme, packed with things to do and see and using tried and trusted accommodation. You really can’t go wrong. Find out more... An unashamedly luxurious family tour staying in carefully selected hotels and encompassing a wide diversity of habitats and activities. After a wildlife safari to the Totruguero waterways, travel to Sarapiqui for rainforest fauna and gentle rafting. Finally, spend five relaxing days at a stylish hotel on the Pacific coast swimming, learning to surf, riding, enjoying massages, zip lining or simply relaxing by the sea or your villa’s private plunge pool. Pamper yourselves in natural comfort and style. Find out more... |
Very well organised. Very efficient service both in the UK and Costa Rica. Very friendly. Would definitely recommend Reef and Rainforest Tours to anyone interested in going to Costa Rica to see wildlife. This was our second trip with Reef and Rainforest and both have been excellent. Mrs F D, Aylesbury.
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