Trekker's Challenge Special

Testimonials!

Special Offer For Feburary, 2009

Special offer: Guided Trekking adventure tour itinerary 9 Days/8 Nights

Special requirements: This trek hike requires all participants to be in their top physical conditioning. Participants must have medical clearance from their doctor to be able to perform this physically demanding hike trek.

Alternative offer: If the hike may seem too challenging for some prospective participant, a separate milder to moderate hike itinerary maybe setup in lieu of the Chirripo hike portion to accommodate participants that will be joining the group in the overall tour package itinerary.

Offer limit: ASAP, due to limited hotel rooms available and airfare availability, booking of this trip will be on a first come, first serve. You must have airfare available for purchase for the above dates. Arrival in San Jose must be in the morning before 12:00 P.M. to afford a timely transfer to the first destination. International airfare is not included in the land tour itinerary package, it must be purchased on your own via Online or a travel agent. Once the group minimum is attained, then the international airfare can be purchased. A commitment deposit of 50% is required to be guaranteed a space for this trip. The amount will be refunded if the group minimum is not attained.

Est. Price: $2,350.00 P/P. The price quote is for a minimum of 10 persons, the price will be modified (increase/decrease) if the minimum is not attained or more participants are accommodated. The quoted price is subject to change/final confirmed prices for the above reservations. The 2009 prices have not been published yet as of this quote and subject to the final rate confirmation.

Trip narrative summary:

Our primary mission is to introduce and educate our visitors to learn the importance of the rainforest and see first hand how its ecosystems affect life on Earth.  Engaging the visitors in an atmosphere of adventure will spark their interest in learning and give them a hands-on, life-long, educational experience.  Learning through adventure lets visitors unravel the mysteries of their environment and gain the knowledge and tools that may help conserve these unique ecosystems for the future.  Reading a text book about the world’s diverse and fragile ecosystems only goes so far; to stand deep in a primary rain forest, to breathe its aura, to observe its diversity, truly touches the heart and imparts an understanding of how the rain forest helps support life on our planet.

The first adventure in the Costa Rican exploration (days 2 through 5) takes us to Mount Chirripó.  Mount Chirripó is a 12,400 foot mountain located in the South East region of Costa Rica only nine degrees from the equator (the trek is strenuous, but requires no prior mountaineering experience or technical skill).  As the trekkers make their way to the summit of Chirripó, they will have the unique opportunity to experience several different types of rain forest all in one location.  The high altitude of Mount Chirripó and its proximity to the equator makes its climate an extraordinary place for a number of different habitats to exist.  Chirripo’s mountainsides are packed with ecological wealth and layers of different ecosystems.  From the swamp through the cloud forest, a trained naturalist will guide us and take the time to point out and answer the student’s questions about the many species of bird, mammals, reptiles and flora that surround us.  From Chirripo’s summit, the trekkers will be rewarded with a simultaneous view of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.  After two nights on the mountain, we are off to another rustic adventure at the Rafiki Safari tent lodge where we can experience an overnight stay in these one of a kind luxury safari tent nestled in a pristine tropical rainforest.  You will experience one of the best river rafting at Rio Savegre, which borders alongside this Majestic rainforest.  Finally, the trip will wind down in Manuel Antonio, a great beach destination located on the Central Pacific Coast.  The next 3 days of the adventure will be spent exploring Manuel Antonio National Park, the most visited national park in all of Costa Rica.  Manual Antonio is located in a humid, coastal tropical rainforest zone on the Pacific Coast.  We will have an early morning guided hike through the park where they will see not only iguanas, monkeys, sloth, coatimondis and butterflies, but also many different variety of flora that make up this coastal primary tropical rainforest.  Our naturalist guide also will be able to help us spot hard to see birds such as toucans, hawks, acaris and falcons.  After the tour through the park, we can spend some time on the beautiful beach inside the national park.  During our time at Manuel Antonio, we also will be doing some mountain biking/sightseeing along the palm plantation in this area.  Lodging in this area will be in a luxury villa situated in a 30 + acres of rainforest property and a private beach for a secluded relaxation.  What a magnificent and unique way to explore such a special part of the world, a world full of reflections.  This is the final leg of our journey.

Daily itinerary:

Day 1 (D)

There will be an extra charge for additional transfers costs if arrival is later in the afternoon

Day 2 (B, L, D)

Day 3 (B, L, D)

Day 4 (B, L, D)

Day 5 (B, L, D)

Day 6 (B, L, D)

Note: Hotel guests can enjoy the amenity of a private beach, use of kayaks, enjoy a cocktail served at the beach

Day 7 (B)

Day 8 (B, D)

Day 9 (B)

Note: A late afternoon international departure is recommended to afford a timely airport transfer

Est. tour package price per person of $ 2,350.00 ( See note #1 below ) includes the following:

B= Breakfast      L= Lunch     D= Dinner

Notes:

Tour price does not include the following:

Note: Departure tax of approximately $26.00 is not included in the tour price, this has to be paid in cash: U.S. dollars or Costa Rican Colones.

Tour Descriptions, by regions:

Note: Please consult with our tour planner for other tour information in the Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific area.

River Rafting @ Rio Savegre, Parrita, Central Pacific Region- Costa Rica offers some of the world’s best white water rafting. Wild and untamed, these big, brash rivers plunge through spectacularly beautiful, largely unexplored tropical wilderness. Enjoy with us our local tropical rivers, where an expert or beginner, natural lover thrill seeker, or rafting enthusiast, this expedition is for you. Exciting and refreshing, Rio Savegre is a jewel here in Costa Rica. Blessed with natural beauty and class III (IV) rapids, the canyon is an ideal place for white water rafting. River banks over grown in jungle.

Departures: TBD

Duration: 2-3 hours

Frequency: Daily

Participant Requirements: Good physical condition, must be over 12 years.

Items to bring/wear: small backpack, River sandals or water shoes, a bathing suit, sun protection, t-shirt, hat, change of clothes, towel, plastic bag for wet clothes.

Includes: transportation, guides, rafts

Manuel Antonio National Park, Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific Region- is designated a humid tropical forest zone. There are primary and secondary forest, mangrove swamps, beach vegetation and marine reserves. The most characteristic species of flora in the primary forest are the guacimo Colorado, bully tree, cedar, locust "sura", black locust (a tree in danger of extinction), cow tree, "madrono," "cenizaro" and silk cotton tree. The mangrove swamp, which covers 44.5 acres, is composed of three species of trees: red mangrove, buttonwood mangrove and white mangrove. The beach vegetation consists mainly of manzanillo, which produces a milky extract, latex and poisonous berries; almonds, mayflowers and coconut palms. The most common wildlife seen are raccoons, white-nosed coatis, agouties, two-toes sloths, white-faced capuchin monkeys and squirrel monkeys (titi) (a sub-species of the park which is in danger of extinction). Birds in the area include toucanillos, fiery-billed acaris, brown pelicans, laughing falcons, black collared hawks, green kingfishers and northern jacanas. As well, there are plenty of iguanas, snakes and thousands of insects. The park is closed on Mondays. Follow our professional nature interpreter through one of Costa Rica’s most famous National Parks. Along this three hour moderate walk, the guide will open your eyes to the wonders of this tropical rain forest and its natural history. Expect to spot two or three species of monkeys, sloth’s, white nosed coati mondis, agoutis, butterflies, iguanas and various birds. After the tour we suggest that you spend some time exploring the beautiful beaches within the park, so take along your bathing suit and beach towel.

Sunset Sailing tour, Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific Region- Your adventure aboard our sailboat begins as you sail down the scenic Pacific Coast, past the beautiful beaches and island of Manuel Antonio Park. As the boat glides quietly under sail we might encounter some Dolphins, which frequently swim in the area. Occasional whales and giant sea turtles are a special thrill, and the ample abundance of the sea birds, which are enjoyed by even the most avid wildlife enthusiast. Your professional crew will guide you through these aquatic paradise while attending to you safety and comfort. They will personally serve you plentiful portions of delicious food, in the tradition of the great cruise ship but with a homemade touch. It also includes cold beers, some alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic drinks. On the morning and sunset cruise, you will stop in a scenic jungle bay where you can swim or snorkel in the calm, refreshing water. All of your snorkel gear is provided just bring a towel and your swimsuit with you. Please don’t forget to bring sunscreen. On the sunset sail, after dinner, you may view one of the most spectacular sunsets in this area. It is truly a romantic ending to a memorable day in paradise. You will enjoy the spectacular sunsets, Dolphins, marine life, snorkelling, swimming, delicious food, drinks and a professional crew.

Departures: 8:00 A.M., 2:00 P.M.

Duration: 4 hours

Frequency: Daily

Items to bring/wear: small backpack, sneakers/tevas, towel, swimsuit, t-shirt/shorts, sun block, camera, change of clothes, plastic bag for wet clothes.

Includes: transportation, boat, crew, drinks, dinner, snorkel gear

Canopy Safari, Quepos, Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific Region- the objective is to provide tourists a unique activity and ecological experience while at the same time helping to aid in the preservation of the world's endangered rainforest through direct financial support to conservation, education, and reforestation efforts. The canopy course is constructed so that there is very little impact on the sensitive ecological balance that exists in the rainforest. Our platforms, pulleys and cables are made of non-corrosive steel. Here at Canopy Safari safety is our top priority. We perform safety checks daily on all equipment including anchors, cables, and connections. Our harnesses, karabiners, and other equipment pass all standards set by the international association the ACCT. The trip begins with an amazing drive trough the tropical rainforest where you will have the opportunity to spot tucans, Tití monkeys, poison dart frogs and more tropical plant life than you could ever imagine. You will arrive at our ranch house set on a mountain side with a spectacular river in the back ground. Here you will be served breakfast or lunch depending on tour time. You will sail through the treetops of the tropical rainforest canopy and over the trails far below. Expert guides will lead you in this exciting adventure into the heart of the rainforest, explaining what is going on around you. From the 9 exhilarating zip lines to the 3 pulse pounding repel lines you guaranteed a thrilling adventure. To cool off after the excitement of the canopy we have a stunning river pool set right next to our restaurant. Here you play on the rope swings or simply relax in the water and enjoy the beautiful scenery. After your drive into the heart of the rainforest, you will arrive at our beautiful restaurant and we are sure that you will appreciate the recent changes. When you arrive at the restaurant we will have ice cold water and juice waiting for you. Both breakfast and lunch are also served here. Our meals are served "all you can eat" buffet style, because you are to work up an appetite on the canopy course. Here we also have a full service bathrooms and a shower. After each tour we invite you to cool off at a fresh water river pool set right next to the restaurant.

Departures: 8:00 A.M., 1:00 P.M., pick up time depends on the hotel location

Duration: 3 hours

Frequency: Daily

Items to bring/wear: small backpack, hiking shoes/sneakers, raingear if necessary, light clothing, bathing suite for the hot springs, sun block, camera, change of clothes, plastic bag for wet clothes.

Includes: transportation, canopy equipment, guide and breakfast or lunch.

Chirripo National Park, San Gerardo De Rivas, South Eastern Region of Costa Rica- Chirripo means "Land of the Eternal Waters". A Chirripó Trek in the rain season shows a numerous streams and brooks. On the top of Cerro Chirripo Grande participant has a view to more than 30 lakes and lagoons. Some of them diappear completely in the dry season. Many large rivers have its source in the valleys of the Talamanca Mountain Range such as Río Chirripo Atlantico, Río Telire, Río Chirripo Pacifico and the Río Ceibo. 20 Km Northeast from San Isidro de El General Total area of 50,150 hectares (approximately 195 square miles) Chirripó National Park forms part of La Amistad International Park (Costa Rica-Panama) located on the Talamanca Mountain Range. Formation 40-60 million years ago in the Eocene by volcanic activity. the presence of basaltic and andesitic rocks and tuffs 18 million years ago Tectonic folding followed by intense plutonic activity which caused a rapid elevation of the entire area. 3-5 million years ago The definitive shape of the range was attained during the post-organic phase. 25,000-30,000 years ago. Formation of glacial lakes by movement of ice which still remain intact. They are u-shaped valleys, such as we can see in Moraines' Valley, the Lakes' Valley, and the Rabbits' Valley. The climate of the Talamanca Mountain Range varies greatly and depends on altitude and slope incline. The Caribbean Slope has an average rainfall of 4000 mm (157 inches) a year and is very humid year-round. The Pacific Slope has rain between 30 and 4000 mm a year. Driest period: From mid-December to mid-April. Temperature ranges in lower regions from 18°C (64° F) to 26° C (79° F). Temperature in the highlands from 0° C (32° F) to 12° C (54° F). The lowest temperature recorded in Chirripó was -9° C (14° F). Night temperatures are very cold and often foggy. During the day temperature could change very brusque with incidence of clouds and drizzle. Bitterly cold winds can exceed 80 kph with wind chill dropping temperatures significantly. An extraordinary number of habits can be found here, as a result of the differences in altitude, soil type, climate and topography. Paramo From 2.900m on with mixed shrubs, grasses and perennial herbaceous plants of Andean origin. Swamps Composed of herbaceous and shrub communities. Madrono Forests Predominant species of the upper parts of the park. Cloud Forest Large trees like the oak, sweet cedar, nargusta, elm, magnolia, lancewood, and mountain cypress. Fern Groves They are mainly made up of the 1-2 meters high Lomaria fern and of sphagnum moss. 263 species of amphibians and reptiles, and about 400 bird species have been observed. Chirripó National Park shelters the largest population of tapir in the country, puma jaguar, peccary, monkeys and many other especies of mammals. Among the birds should be mentioned the most spectacular: The resplentend quetzal. Discover the beauties of Chirripó National Park all by yourself. Take your time to enjoy the magnificent views and the tranquillity of this unique landscape as you are hiking up the highest mountain of Costa Rica!

What To Bring:

Sleeping bag rated to freezing, Good rucksack to carry your gear (or to give to an optional porter), Plastic water bottle and personal water filter to refill your water bottle, Good rain poncho, warm clothes (layered, polypropylene) to keep warm in damp and cold mountains, Sunscreen and insect repellent, Cotton shirts - long and short sleeved, Parka, Trousers - light weight pants (jeans are not recommended -too slow to dry), Short Hiking socks, Hat(s) with visor for rain and sun protection, Flashlight with spare batteries, bulb binoculars, FOOTWEAR - Good, lightweight hiking boots with traction and ankle support are essential!

Exploring Chirripó National Park--At 3,759m (12,330 ft.) in elevation, Mount Chirripó is the tallest mountain in Costa Rica. If you're headed up this way, come prepared for chilly weather. Actually, dress in layers and come prepared for all sorts of weather: Because of the great elevations, temperatures frequently dip below freezing, especially at night. However, during the day, temperatures can soar--remember, you're still only 9° from the equator. The elevation and radical temperatures have produced an environment here that's very different from the Costa Rican norm. Above 3,000m (10,000 ft.), only stunted trees and shrubs survive in páramos. If you're driving the Interamerican Highway between San Isidro and San José, you'll pass through a páramo on the Cerro de la Muerte.
Hiking up to the top of Mount Chirripó is one of Costa Rica's great adventures. On a clear day (usually in the morning), an unforgettable view is your reward: You can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the summit. You can do this trip fairly easily on your own if you've brought gear and are an experienced backpacker. While it's possible to hike from the park entrance to the summit and back down in 2 days (in fact, some daredevils even do it in 1 day), it's best to allow 3 to 4 days for the trip, to give yourself time to enjoy your hike fully and spend some time on top, since that's where the glacier lakes and páramos are. For much of the way, you'll be hiking through cloud forests that are home to abundant tropical fauna, including the spectacular quetzal, Costa Rica's most beautiful bird. However, quetzal sightings on summit climbs are rare. If you really want to see one of these birds, head to one of the specialized lodges listed below. These cloud forests are cold and damp, so come prepared for rain and fog. There are several routes to the top of Mount Chirripó. The most popular, by far, leaves from San Gerardo de Rivas. However, it's also possible to start your hike from the nearby towns of Herradura and Canaan. All these places are within a mile or so of each other, reached by the same major road out of San Isidro. San Gerardo is the most popular because it's the easiest route to the top and has the greatest collections of small hotels and lodges, as well as the National Parks office. Information on all of these routes is available at the parks office.

Once you're at the summit lodge, there are a number of hiking options. Just in front of the lodge are Los Crestones (The Crests), an impressive rock formation, with trails leading up and around them. The most popular, however, is to the actual summit (the lodge itself is a bit below), which is about a 2-hour hike passing through the Valle de los Conejos (Rabbit Valley) and the Valle de los Lagos (Valley of Lakes). There are other hikes and trails leading off from the summit lodge, and it's easy to spend a couple of days hiking around here. A few trails will take you to the summits of several neighboring peaks. These hikes should be undertaken only after carefully studying an accurate map and talking to park rangers and other hikers.

Warning--It can be dangerous for more inexperienced or out-of-shape hikers to climb Chirripó, especially by themselves. It's not very technical climbing, but it is a long, arduous hike. If you're not sure you're up for it, you can just take day hikes out of San Isidro and/or San Gerardo de Rivas.

Hotel Lodging Descriptions:

Hotel & Refugio- Albergue El Pelícano , San Gerardo De Rivas, Southwest Region - is a family owned and managed business. The Elizondo family native from San Gerardo de Rivas is a great example of family unity, where working together as teams every one cooperates to make their business dream come through.   Every member of the family is assigned a different task, from cooking to grounds maintenance, administration and tour guides every one pulls together as one to provide their customers and tourist an unforgettable experience. This family is driven and focuses on customer service excellence. We invite you to come and stay with us. Come, enjoy and see with your own eyes the hospitality and quality of service our family provides. Our Hotel is located on a private mountaintop estate in Costa Rica's San Gerardo de Rivas surrounded by coffee plantations and lush foliage. Walk amidst enchanted gardens of orchids. Become romanced by the fountains, waterfalls, closed by rivers, our magnificent pools, fruit and ornamental trees, colorful birds, and gentle butterflies; Hotel & Refuguio-Albergue El Pelícano is the perfect vacation and get away spot for you.   A remarkable unique feature of Costa Rica is that it does not have an army. Costa Ricans decided there would be less chance for dictator coups without one, and so it has become the global model of democracy. During the last 50 years, the money that would have gone into the military has been spent on education. Costa Ricans have the highest literacy rates in the world.

Special Features

Hotel Savegre Mountain Lodge, San Gerardo De Dota , Southeastern Region - We are a company dedicated to fine hotel service, and our fundamental interest is to provide the local and international tourist with an experience and visit that fully meets their expectations. Our services, provided in environment of warmth and comfort, reflect the tranquility of what is meant by Costa Rica. In our establishment you will let go off the tensions caused by modern life and the problems that accompany it.come and let us share with you the splendor of our most important resource: Nature itself. The Savegre Mountain Hotel, also known as Cabinas Chacón , is located in San Gerardo de Dota , a small community in the Talamanca mountains in the midst of a precious ecosystem... Here you will find a deep cloud forest filled with massive oaks and other native species. The woods serve as a sanctuary for a large number of mammals and innumerable species of insects, amphibians, amazing plants and colorful birds, a paradise for birdwatchers. As you wind around Cerro de la Muerte on the Inter-American Highway, you will see the lush vegetation become stunted and then diminish. The turn off for San Gerardo de Dota is on Kilometer 80, driving for 9 kilometers down on a well mantained gravel road you reach this narrow, pristine mountain valley at 2200 meters of altitude (7220 ft). San Gerardo de Dota has become a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers, and trout fishers.

Don Efraín Chacón and his family arrived here in 1954 and were the first pioneers settling down in this valley. The Chacón Family not only have developed this wonderul hotel, but have over the course of the years take advantage of the crisp weather to grow apples, plums, and peaches, which you sample in meals.

Rafiki Safari Lodge, Savegre , Central Pacific Region - Welcome to Rafiki , a luxury tent camp in the rainforest outside of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. The lodge is nestled on 750 acres of pristine jungle along the Savegre River, 30 km south of Quepos . The lodge is nestled on a natural plateau with nine luxury tents situated near by, each with its own spectacular view of the pristine mountains. The Lodge serves as the restaurant, bar and tour center. From here you will start all of your safaris, while being able to enjoy the pool and water slide and experience some amazing birding. With Carlo and Janel as your hosts, treat yourself to a delicious South African Braai (BBQ) cooked on our grill, accompanied by side dishes prepared by our professional chef. Enjoy a tasty beverage from the bar while being enchanted by the natural beauty that Rafiki has to offer! The spacious luxury tents were imported from South Africa. They comfortably sleep up to four people The large windows bring the sounds and the smells of the forest in, while the canvas walls keep the creepies and the elements out. Enjoy the magnificent views from your private porch! Our showers are fire heated to take the chill out of the spring water. With over 300 species of identified birds so far, Rafiki is a world-class location for birding. Common sightings include Toucans, Mot- Mots , and Trogons. We offer morning guided tours to help you sharpen your skills and learn more about the habitats and behaviors of the feathered friends of the Savegre Valley. With more than 700 acres of rainforest, Rafiki offers a variety of trails to explore. Your guide will point out trees, plants, and any wildlife you might see on the way. Hikes vary from 1 to 4 hours. You are also welcome to hike on your own. Take the plunge on one of five fastest waterslides in the world! The waterslide starts from the lodge and speeds down to the pool 100ft below. The water for the waterslide is supplied by a natural stream that not only fills the pool with fresh spring water, but also feeds the hydroelectric system used at Rafiki . We do not add chemicals to the pool water, so the runoff is ecologically safe to return to the river.

Hotel Buena Vista Villas, Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific Region - Imagine taking a vacation or a restful weekend in a unique boutique hotel surrounded by 33 acres of lush tropical forest and intoxicating gardens. At the Buena Vista hotel can hike 2 miles of nature trails that take you by crystalline cascades, stunning lookout points and through dense jungle growth. The private beach (see note) is located in a protected bay, allowing you to take advantage of the various water activities that Buena Vista offers, without having to worry about dangerous undertows or riptides. As a guest, kayaks and snorkelling equipment are for your exclusive use. Buena Vista's s Turtle Trap Beach Bar ensures that you don´t have to go far to order your favorite cocktail or satisfy the rumbling in your stomach while you relax in the beach. Transport to and from the beach is offered to those of you who get a little too zapped by the sun. The cool water of Buena Vista's infinity pool will provide a refreshing change from the warm waters of the Pacific. You don't want to miss the stunning sunsets from this elevated location! Indoor comfort is seamlessly blended with outdoor living to allow you to become one with the sights, sounds and smells of the tropical rainforest. Enjoy spectacular views of the jungle and sea from your own mountainside two-bedroom villa. Decorated with Costa Rican Paintings, baskets and weavings the spacious 1,400 sq. ft. villas provide you with luxury and comfort in the midst of the breathtaking jungle setting. The fully air conditioned two bedroom Villas feature: Two Stories, Two Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms, Separate living area, Two covered fully furnished terraces and Eat in Kitchen. Inside Staircase available in some villas. Each villa sleeps up to six people. All the villas are walking distance from the private Beach. Our exclusive beach (See note) is located in a protected bay allowing your to take advantage of the various water activities that Buena Vista offers, without having to worry about dangerous undertows or riptides. As a guest at Tulemar Bungalows, kayaks and snorkelling equipment are for your exclusive use. Turtle Trap Beach Bar ensures that you don't have to go far to order your favorite cocktail or satisfy the rumbling in your stomach while you relax at the beach.

Note:
Gaialink Tours & Services has made the client aware of the physical conditioning and all of the related requirements to perform the Mt. Chirripo hike trip. The client also acknowledged and understood the importance of such requirements. Failure to perform/finish the Mt. Chirripo hike as a result of the client’s lack of physical conditioning will not be the responsibility of GaiaLink Tours and Services. GaiaLink Tours and Services does not guarantee and shall not be responsible for any bookings or reservations made to alter the final itinerary aforementioned above. The client acknowledged and read the GLT payment terms and conditions policies, applicable penalty fees will be applied if changes are made to the final itinerary aforementioned above. Any subsequent changes to the final itinerary will be subject for approval between the Client and Gaialink Tours & Services.

Contact Us To Book This Package

Note:
GaiaLink Tours & Services (GLT) does not guarantee and shall not be responsible for any bookings or reservations made to alter the final itinerary aforementioned above. Per GLT payment terms and conditions policies, applicable penalty fees will be applied if changes are made to the final itinerary aforementioned above. Any subsequent changes to the final itinerary will be subject for approval between the Client and GaiaLink Tours & Services.