Trekker's Challenge Special

Testimonials!

Special limited offer: GaiaLink Tours is proud to offer our annual group leadership and extreme hike adventure. Come and join our team leader, Mr. John Hinrichsen, a certified life coach and physical fitness trainer from Image cycling.

Target Itinerary Date: March 9, 2011 to March 17, 2011 (9 days/8 nights)

Minimum group quote: 12 Persons

Offer conditions: reserve ASAP, due to limited lodging availability 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, Costa Rica must be in the morning before 11:00 A.M. and departure must be in the late afternoon to accommodate effective timely ground transfer to and from the the airport. Lacsa airlines offers direct flights with early morning departure flights from N.Y (JFK) and late afternoon departure from San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO). Please go to taca.com to inquire. If flying from another state, please surf the web for the best airline based on the required arrival and departure schedule. There will be an extra transfer cost if the schedule required is not obtained.

Price: $2,395.00 P/P. The price quote is for a minimum of 12 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 2011 prices have not been published yet as of this quote and subject to the final rate confirmation. Non-refundable deposit of 25% is required upon signing up for the trip, balance to be paid in full no later than November 9, 2010. Travel insurance protection is highly recommended.

Requirements: The Chirripo hike is the highlight of this adventure trip and is not for everybody. The hike is a very strenuous hike. Participants must be in excellent physical condition and must be able to hike challenging trails for 7 hours or more per day. A medical condition clearance form must be presented if applicable. Since there are limited hotel lodging accommodations offered and depending on the mix of the group, participants must be willing to room/bed sharing especially if you are a single participant.

Travel requirement: U.S. visitors travelling to Costa Rica  must have proof of citizenship. A valid passport (expiration date must be more than 6 months from the travel date) must be hand carried when travelling. 

Important 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

Trip narrative summary:

Our primary mission is to introduce and educate our visitors to learn the importance of the rainforest and witness first hand how its ecosystems affect life on Earth. Engaging the visitors in an atmosphere of adventure will spark their interest in learning and provide 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 4) 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, ONLY TOP PHYSICAL CONDITION).  As the trekkers make their way to the summit of Chirripo, 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 3 nights on the Chirripo region, we are off to another rustic adventure at the Rafiki Safari tent lodge where we can experience 2 overnight stays in these unique luxury safari tents nestled in a pristine tropical rainforest. You will transfer to this majestic location via a rafting experience on one of the best river rafting at Rio Savegre, which borders alongside this Majestic rainforest. Finally, the trip will winds down in Manuel Antonio, a great beach destination located on the Central Pacific Coast. The next 4 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 other activities: canopy zip-lining, sunset sail and snorkelling and some R & R at a private secluded beach.  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 summary:

Day 1- Wednesday, March 9, 2011 (L, D)

A.M. arrival in San Jose
Meet & greet at the airport by GLT staff
Private ground transfer to San Gerardo De Dota Hotel
Overnight at El Pelicano Lodge, 6 Std. Rooms, 12 Pax

Day 2- Thursday, March 10, 2011 (B, L, D)

Early breakfast at the lodge
A.M. (TBD) pick up for Chirripo trek
Morning ascend to base crestones base camp (all day)
Overnight at Base Crestones camp

Day 3- Friday, March 11, 2011 (B, L, D)

Early breakfast at Camp Shelter
Very early A.M. continued hike to summit of Mt. Chirripo
Late morning descend down to San Gerardo De Rivas village
Overnight at El Pelicano Lodge, 6 Std. Rooms, 12 Pax

Day 4- Saturday, March 12, 2011 (B, L, D)

Early breakfast at the lodge
A.M. (TBD) private ground transfer: Hotel Pelicano to San Isidro
A.M. (TBD) Super Lekker rafting to the lodge
Free afternoon at Rafiki Jungle lodge property
Overnight at Rafiki Safari Lodge, 4 Luxury safari tents, 12 Pax
Each luxury safari tent: 1 Queen, 2 single beds

Day 5- Sunday, March 13, 2011 (B, L, D)

Breakfast at the lodge
Morning (TBD) horseback ride
Afternoon (TBD) Yoga session
Overnight at Rafiki Safari Lodge, 4 Luxury safari tents, 12 Pax

Day 6- Monday, March 14, 2011 (B)

Early breakfast at the lodge
9:00 A.M. private ground transfer to Manuel Antonio
1:15 P.M. Canopy Safari  (½ day, 12 Pax)
Overnight at Buena Vista Villas, 2: 3 bedroom Premium Villas (12 Pax)
2 bedroom premium villas with 8 persons maximum accommodation:
2 bedrooms with 2 queen beds each bedroom (Note)
Note: Sleeping accommodations must be discussed with team leader

Day 7- Tuesday, March 15, 2011 (B, D)

Early breakfast at the hotel private beach
6:50 A.M. (Est.) tour of Manuel Antonio Park (½ day, 12 pax)
1:10 P.M. (Est.) Sunset/dolphin watch/Snorkelling (½ day, 12 Pax)
Overnight at Buena Vista Villas, 2: 2 bedroom Premium Villas (12 Pax)

Day 8- Wednesday, March 16, 2011 (B)

Early breakfast at the hotel private beach
Free day to relax at the beach
Overnight at Buena Vista Villas, 2: 2 bedroom Premium Villas (12 Pax)

Day 9- Thursday, March 17, 2011 (B)

Early breakfast at the hotel private beach
Free morning
11:30 A.M. private ground transfer to San Jose (3 ½ hours, 12 Pax)
6:25 P.M. Lacsa #660, International departure
Good Bye Costa Rica!!

Est. tour package price per person of $ 2,395.00 (See note 1) includes the following:

1) All airport ground transfers via microbus with A/C: San Jose airport/San Gerardo De Dota, Manuel Antonio/San Jose airport
2) Mt. Chirripo package: round-trip national park transfers, all meals, bilingual hike guide, hotel/base camp lodging at the mountain.
3) Rafiki Jungle lodge package: 2 nights lodging at luxury safari tent, rafting, horseback, yoga session, all meals, round-trip transfers.
4) Private with A/C, ground transfers: San Gerardo De Rivas/San Isidro, Parrita (Rafiki Jungle Lodge)/Manuel Antonio.
5) All Tours including transportation with bilingual guides as indicated on the itinerary. The tour schedules quoted are estimated times only and will be subject to revision based on the final confirmed schedules.
6) Hotels with double bed rooms/Triple/Quad rooms as indicated, taxes included.
7) All or any meals as indicated next to the dates.
B= Breakfast     L= Lunch    D= Dinner
Notes:
 
1) This price quote is for a minimum of 12 persons, the price will be modified if the minimum is not attained. The quoted price is subject to change/final confirmed prices for the above reservations. The 2011 prices have not been published yet as of this quote and subject to the final rate confirmation. GaiaLink tours reserves the right to modify/change the itinerary if the desired number of participants are not met
2) The private transfers quoted are just that: pick up and a few stops (food, photo, restrooms) and to your point of destination. There will be an extra charge for side trips requested along the way if requested.
3) If applicable, there is a 25 lbs. Luggage limit for domestic air and boat  transfers between destinations, you must pack separately according to your itinerary schedule. You will have to bring an empty duffle bag and put it inside the suite case. The excess luggage may be left for hotel storage. Client must have locks on the luggage for storage at all times. Gaialink Tours will not be responsible for the contents of your luggage during transport & storage.

Tour price does not include the following:

Hiking and camping equipment: sleeping bags, hiking/camping supplies
Evening activities- costs related to evening activities not quoted are not included. A desired night activity can be added at an additional cost.
Tips- private tour guides, drivers, waiters and other tour related personnel.
Departure tax- airport departure tax of approximately $26.00 each.
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.
Hotel amenities- costs related to spa, massages, mini bar, room service, telephone, fax, cable T.V., laundry services, etc.

International airfare

Tour Descriptions, by regions:

Warning—This tour is not for Everyone; 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 and consult with our tour planner.

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.

Tour descriptions:

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. FYI, river water levels will be lower during the dry season (Dec-April) but nevertheless lots of fun.

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.
Departures: 7:00 - 7:15 A.M., pick up time, depending on the hotel location
Duration: 3-4 hours
Frequency: Daily
Items to bring/wear: small backpack, hiking shoes/sneakers, light clothing, bathing suite, sun block, camera, change of clothes, towel, plastic bag for wet clothes.
Includes: transportation, bilingual guide and entrance fee to the park.

Canopy Safari, Quepos, 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 toucans, 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 rappel 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 am, 1:00 P.M.
Duration: 4 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.

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.  It is normally during the morning during the rainy season (May-Nov)

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, lunch OR dinner, snorkel gear

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
·Stunning fauna and flora; and access to the Chirripó "Paramo".
·Several hectares (over 2,000 acres) of primary rain forest from the Chirripó National Park.
·Waterfalls, Rivers, Garden with exotic flowers and statues.
·A diversified farm which offers examples of traditional, sustainable agriculture in the lowland tropics.
·An environment that combines human land use with conservation.
·True relaxation or daily physical challenges (walking, running, swimming, etc).
·Great for Rain forest study groups, college students or other special interest groups in Flora and Fauna.
·Come and learn Spanish and about our culture.
·We offer a full size pool and small pool for the youngsters to enjoy.
Full bar and kitchen with most popular Costa Rican foods,

Rafiki Luxury Safari Tent Camp Jungle 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 Luxury 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, you can hike 2 miles of nature trails that take you by crystalline cascades, stunning lookout points and through dense jungle growth. The private beach, a perfect place for relaxatio, 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  one, two and Three bedroom premium villas. 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. The villas, depending on the type sleeps from 2 to 10 persons. All the villas are walking distance from the private Beach with coutrtesy shuttle service for guests who cannot do moderate hikes back up to the villas. Costa Rica is an amazing place for a vacation and at Buena Vista Villas you will experience its picturesque beaches, mountains, jungles and rainforests.

Luxury Villas features:

Stay in the comfort of a private home with all of the amenities of a luxury beach resort. Buena Vista Luxury Villas offers 2 & 3 Bedroom Premium Villas for rental. We have a total of 5 – 3 Bedroom villas and 8 – 2 Bedroom villas. These luxurious octagon shaped Villas are nestled into the jungle hillside and offer 320-degree panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush jungle. Come view the magic of these special “jungle tree houses” for yourself. For a preview of what you will experience, enjoy the photo tour and imagine you’re there.

Fully air-conditioned
Travertine Marble floors throughout
Mood setting indirect lighting; recessed & track

Kitchen
• All stainless appliances including separate under the counter ice maker
• Totally outfitted kitchen, from dishes to pots & pans to the smallest can opener
• Microwave
• Ceiling fan

Living Room
• Oversized Teak door, imported from Bali, in the entry sets mood
• Find comfort and beauty in the jungle green sectional sofa
• For an unobstructed view, 2 sets of 8 foot bi fold doors open onto the 450 square foot wrap around verandah
• Built in extra large lounging area, for extra sleeping capacity or relaxation
• Color TV and DVD player
• Ceiling fan

Verandah
• 450 square foot verandah
• Teak dining table and chairs
• Stone covered outdoor hot tub
• 4 rocking swivel chairs, designed for comfort and relaxation, with ottoman and leather coffee table
• 3 Outdoor ceiling fans

Powder Room
• Stone ‘above the counter’ sink
• Beautiful custom vanity
• Hi tech European stainless faucet

Bedrooms
• Furnished, covered terrace off of each bedroom
• Top of line luxurious mattresses complemented with a European featherbed guarantee a restful jungle sleeping experience
• 500 ct cotton sheets
• Safe in each bedroom
• TV & DVD player in every bedroom
• Bathroom features: stone counter tops, stone outdoor shower with extra large rain/showerhead, stone ‘above the counter’ sinks with hi tech European stainless faucets

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.