Monteverde Mountain Alive
Discover the meaning
of the Costa Rican phrase "
pura vida"-the pure life- with us.
Monteverde and
Cano Negro,
the essence of Costa Rica
Costa
Rica is an active travelers ideal destination. With vibrant mountain
rivers and verdant
forest trails the Monteverde and Arenal region combine to offer the
perfect setting for our newest trip. We ramble through cloud forests
rich with flora and fauna and paddle crystal sparkling rivers with an
active volcano as a back drop.
After meeting in San Jose we begin our journey to the Monteverde Cloud
Forest. Monteverde started as a Quaker community founded by peaceful
people who wanted to live in a quiet and friendly environment. The village
of Monteverde is nestled on the slopes below the cloud forest where
families raise dairy cattle, famous for their delicious cheese.
The mist shrouded privately owned Reserve is home to many varieties
of brilliant colored birds, including numerous varieties of hummingbirds,
parrots, toucans and the elusive and rare Resplendent Quetzal. Early
Mayans believed the quetzal to be the "bird of life" and a
symbol of freedom since it was believed that the bird would not live
in captivity.
We spend several days here, as there is much to see and do. Along with
the Monteverde Reserve there are several smaller reserves that in themselves
offer wonderful walking, hiking and exploring choices. Afternoons can
be spent enjoying the local butterfly gardens where brightly colored
mariposas dance among us, or visiting the small art galleries, artist
co-ops and local coffee growers.
We leave Monteverde and head overland to the village of Fortuna and
the stunning Arenal Volcano. Looming over the village of Fortuna the
volcano is a constant reminder of nature's power and grace. Wehave a
variety of river choices including the Rio Fortuna, Rio Penas Blancas
and the Rio Arenal. All are quick and lively with verdant vegetation
blanketing their banks. These waterways are a haven for a collection
of birds including Northern Jacana, Little Blue Heron and Fly Catchers.
We paddled at a leisurely pace allowing us to soak in all that surrounds
us.
Ramble choices continue to abound here as well. Lava flows around the
volcano provide wonderful areas
to discover and take in the views of Lake Arenal. We may choose a walk
to the Fortuna waterfalls, a pleasant walk through rich pasture land
leads us to the edge of the forest and the cascading falls.
At days end we enjoy a trip to the Tabacon Hot Springs. The Rio Tabacon
is heated naturally by the near by volcano and is the perfect spot to
enjoy the sunset and reflect on a great day.
All to quickly our adventure ends. It is now time to leave the lowlands
and return to San Jose and our final farewells.
Monteverde
Rambles Itinerary
Where and When to go and How to Get There
 Day
1:
We depart from the San Jose International airport at 10:00am and begin
our journey to Monteverde. We will travel along the Intraamerican highway
to Santa Elena and Monteverde. Along the way we pass fields of coffee
and sugar cane. The countryside unfolds in front of us with new sights
and sounds. Upon reaching Monteverde we feel as if we are on top of
the world. We will have lunch on our own today, and there are many places
to choose from including the highly recommended "Stellas".
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is a privately owned cloud forest reserve
that is home to many varieties of brilliantly colored birds, including
numerous hummingbirds, parrots, toucans and the elusive and rare Resplendent
Quetzal. Early Mayans believed the quetzal to be the "bird of life"
and a symbol of freedom since it will not live in  captivity.
Monteverde is indeed special, and is a fitting introduction to Costa
Rica. We will have the afternoon to visit the butterfly garden, the
Children's Rainforest and other sights in the area. We will settle into
our lodge, enjoy an evening meal and begin to soak in the new sights
and sounds of our surroundings.
Lodging - Hotel Fonda Vela
Note - Lunch is on our own today
Day
2:
We have a full day to explore Monteverde with a local guide surrounded
by a medley of ferns and a profusion of blooming orchids. We will leave
time for shopping at CASEM, a local handcrafts cooperative and enjoy
a cup of fresh roasted coffee.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest lies on the continental divide so we can
take advantage of spectacular views of both the Pacific and Caribbean
side of the country. To spend time in the cloud forest is truly a magical
and educational experience. The forest reveals itself in layers and
we are amazed and intrigued how everything is interconnected.
In addition to the cloud forest we will have time to visit the butterfly
garden, hummingbird garden and other local areas during our stay. Evening
finds us enjoying a well cooked meal with friends and looking forward
to yet another day.
Lodging - Hotel Fonda Vela
Day
3:
We plan an early morning departure from Monteverde and head overland
through rugged mountains, lush coffee plantations and small villages
on our way to Fortuna, and the stunning Arenal Volcano. Looming over
the village of Fortuna the volcano is a constant reminder of nature's
power and grace.
We have a variety of choices on how to travel from Monteverde to Fortuna,
which include, horseback, walking or driving. The horseback and walking
option each take about 4-5 hours and brings us through a mix of pasture
land and cloud forest as we descend from the mountains down to the Arenal
Valley. Views of the Arenal Volcano and wonderful birds are highlights
of the day. The third option of driving brings us through the town of
Tilaran and around the edge of Lake Arenal. However we choose to travel
today rest assured it will be an exhilarating and enjoyable one. At
the end of the day we find ourselves at La Catarata Lodge where we will
settle in for the next two evenings, now thoroughly immersed in the
true fabric of Costa Rica.
Lodging - La Catarata Lodge
Note-The horseback trip is optional and considered strenous. There is
an additional charge for horseback riding.
Day
4:
Our
river choice today is the Rio Penas Blancas. A wonderful river with
scenery dominated by panoramic views of Arenal Volcano, lush forests,
vibrantly colored birds and the mystery of being in a new place. These
waterways are a hven for a collection of birds including Northern Jacana,
Little Blue Herons and Flycatchers.
We
may want to allow time in the afternoon to enjoy swimming and relaxing
in the nearby El Tabacon Hot Springs. After a soaking in the hot springs
we will enjoy dinner at Vaca Muca, a local restaurant well known for
their fresh and flavorful meals.
After
dinner we return to La Catarata for another evening. We have one more
chance to watch the volcano put on a show, from low rumbles to hot rocks
tumbling down, it is truly a unique experience.
Lodging
-- La Catarata Lodge
Day
5:
This
morning after a full breakfast of gallo pinto and fresh fruit we are
off for a day of
paddling. Our river choice today is the Rio Arenal. The scenery will
be dominated by panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano, lush forest,
vibrantly colored birds and the mystery of being in a new place. This
river is a haven is home to a wide collection of birds.
The end of the day brings us to the small village of Cano Negro. We
will settle into our simple cabinas and perhaps opt for a paddle at
sunset to enjoy watching the birds return to roost for the evening.
Lodging - Cano Negro Cabinas
Day
6:
We
have an early departure planned this morning as we look forward to a
day of paddling on the Rio Frio through the Cano Negro Wildlife refuge.
A wildlife reserve, Cano Negro, is very remote and provides a haven
for a wide assortment of wildlife. We will paddle among wood storks,
anhingas, cormorants, ducks, countless cayman, and all five species
of kingfishers. River otter, sloths, howler monkeys and an array of
other mammals and reptiles also make their home in the refuge.
We plan to take out of the Rio Frio in mid afternoon and begin our journey
back to San Jose. our short visit has allowed us to explore this diverse
part of the country by canoe and foot.
Our
journey ends as it began with a 4:00pm return to the San Jose Airport.
If your travel plans differ from this you will be responsible for your
own transfers.
Costa Rica Supplement
Travel
in a foreign country requires one to be flexible and patient. BATTENKILL
CANOE LTD trips are designed for flexible, energetic people who have
a healthy dose of curiosity and enthusiasm about our world, and who
like to be active. The most important requirements are a spirit of adventure
and a positive attitude!
This trip will be enjoyed by anyone who has an interest in natural history,
and the outdoors. Although this is not a strenuous trip, it is very
active and we suggest you be in good physical shape to better enjoy.
We reserve the right to change the itinerary based on weather, water
levels, locations, availability, or additional information from our
hosts. We may be compelled to increase or decrease trip prices due to
matters beyond our control, such as currency exchange, airfare, taxes
or price increases. Gratuities for BattenKill guides and other staff
are appreciated, but are left entirely to your discretion.
Emergency
Contact
For emergency contact during the trip please contact our office in Arlington
at 1.800.421.5268. They will contact the guides in Costa Rica as quickly
as possible. Phone service in some parts of the country is limited,
but we will return the call as soon as possible.
Single
Supplement
If you are traveling alone and request a private room a single supplement
of $90.00 will be included in your final billing. If you are traveling
alone and would like to share a room with another traveler we will try
our best to find you a roommate. If that is not possible we must assess
a single supplement of 50% of the requested amount.
Deposits
and Payments
A deposit of $250.00 per person is requested to confirm space. Your
reservation is confirmed immediately with a credit card or personal
check. Final payment for your trip is due 60 days prior to the departure
date and can be paid by credit card or personal check. Please refer
to your confirmation letter for the amount due. BATTENKILL CANOE reserves
the right to regard reservations for these tours canceled when the payment
of the balance is not received when due.
If you must cancel your trip, notification must be received by BATTENKILL
CANOE in writing. If you cancel more than 60 days before trip departure
your deposit is refundable less a cancellation fee of 50% of the deposit
per person. No refund can be made for cancellations received less than
60 days before the trip departure. If you must cancel, but wish to reschedule
for another trip, we will do our best to accommodate you, and if you
have any special needs or considerations please don't hesitate to contact
us. Trip extensions require a separate deposit, and our same policies
apply.
Final
Payment
Your balance is due 60 days prior to the departure date and can be paid
by credit card or personal check. Please refer to your invoice for the
amount due. BATTENKILL CANOE reserves the right to regard reservations
for these tours canceled when the payment of the balance is not received
when due.
Guaranteed
Dates & Small Trip Charge
Since you plan your vacation around our trip, it is our responsibility
to run every trip scheduled if four or more persons are on the roster.
A number of fixed costs make it more expensive to operate a trip with
six members than one with 12. We budget our trips with a nearly full
sign up, to enable us to price them at the lowest possible cost.
We will still run your trip if four or more guests are on the roster.
However, we will be obliged to add a small trip surcharge if there is
a low sign up of between four (4) and seven (7) participants. The small
trip surcharge is ten (10) percent of the published price.
If you make your reservations 6 months prior to departure, you will
qualify for our Earlybird Discount which guarantees your departure regardless
of the number of people on the roster.
Value Vouchers
In the event that
we discount a trip on which you are booked, we will automatically extend
to you a courtesy voucher representing the value of the promotional
discount. You may apply the discount certificate to any future BattenKill
trip. You may combine discounts, however the maximum is 20% off any
one trip.
Airline
Reservations
If you would like BATTENKILL CANOE to make your airline reservations.
We can book with all the major carriers and would be happy to assist
you with your travel plans.
While airport transfers are not included in your trip price we will
attempt to meet all arriving flights on Day 1 of your trip. Transfers
are based on the availability of our staff and van at the time. If you
are arriving prior to Day 1 of the trip, we will make every effort to
meet your flight, but again this will be dependent on staffing and van
availability. Transfers can be confirmed by our Vermont office prior
to your departure. Airport pickups will be coordinated by BattenKill
Canoe, Ltd a day or so before your trip.
-
WHAT'S
INCLUDED
* Services of BATTENKILL CANOE LTD for predeparture information
and guide services to help you get the most out of your expedition.
* Round trip airfare from the gateway city if designated.
* All ground transportation within Costa Rica.
* Lodging accommodations and all meals beginning with dinner on
Day 1 through breakfast on Day 6. Except where noted they will be
on your own.
* Fully escorted, exclusive BATTENKILL CANOE tour of Costa Rica.
-
NOT
INCLUDED
* Round trip transportation from hometown to gateway city.
* Airport transfers
* Tips to drivers and guides.
* Departure taxes and other government fees.
* Items of personal nature such as laundry, phone calls and beverages.
* Cost of delays including delays due to bad weather, canceled or
delayed flights or delays on other modes of transport, sickness
or other situations for which BATTENKILL CANOE or its agents cannot
make provisions.
A U.S. passport valid beyond your anticipated date of return to
the U.S. is essential. Holders of foreign passports must check with
the Embassy of Costa Rica for details. Our office may be able to
assist you.
Health
Requirements
No immunizations are required at this time. We recommend that you contact
your personal physician or local health board for their advice, and
make your own decisions. Potable water will be provided at all lodging
locations.
Malaria is a concern when traveling in any Central American country.
The Center of Disease Control does recommend taking malaria medication
when traveling to a country with known cases of malaria. We suggest
you contact your personal physician in regards to these medications.
We are happy to discuss any questions or concerns you may have in regard
to health requirements while traveling with us.
Bringing
the Kids
We believe that sharing an adventure with your kids or grandkids
is a life-enhancing experience. Children twelve years of age or older
are welcomed on all trips. Special arrangements must be made for all
children 7-12. Regular discount is 25% off the trip price for folks
under 18 years old.
Currency
The currency unit is the Colon. Prices in Costa Rica are quoted in colones
and money may be exchanged after arrival. We may be compelled to increase
or decrease trip prices due to matters beyond our control, such as currency
exchange, airfare, taxes or price increases.
Insurance
An application for short term trip insurance is included in this packet.
WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU OBTAIN THIS INSURANCE, which reimburses
you for nonrefundable costs and deposits should you have to cancel your
trip. It also provides medical expenses, emergency assistance, and accidental
death coverage.
WHAT TO BRING FOR MONTEVERDE RAMBLES
-
*Passport
(carrying a photocopy of your passport is also a good idea--just
in case)
*Three changes of lightweight cotton or cotton mix clothing--pants
and short sleeve tops for off river and evenings
*Lightweight long sleeve shirt and pants for cool evenings and/or
sun protection
*Lightweight sweater or pile top
*Lightweight rain jacket for cool evenings and the occasional rain
shower
*One pair of comfortable walking shoes
*Wide brimmed hat
*Sunglasses with security strap
*Sunscreen
*Insect repellent
*Lip balm or chapstick
*Water bottle
*Personal toiletries
*Personal medications
*Personal first aid kit
*Flashlight with extra batteries and bulb
*Small hand towel
*Bandana
*Camera and film
*Binoculars
*Day use backpack
Additional Clothes for Paddling
*2-3 pairs of shorts
* 2-3 t-shirts or comfortable paddling tops
*Swim suit
*Light weight paddle jacket and rain pants for rain and/or sun protection.
Preferably nylon or other fast drying material.
*Canoe shoes that can get wet for paddling such as sandals or booties.
Avoid sandals that have velcro straps. The velcro straps do not
do well in muddy conditions
Optional Gear
*Pocketknife
*Collapsible umbrella
*Field guides, bird books, and travel books
*Journal notebook, pen and a good book to read
*Extra eye glasses, sunglasses and security straps
*Ear plugs
This
list is intended to be skeletal, and we anticipate you will have your
own ideas of what is "necessary." In general bring half the
clothes you think you will need and twice the film. Getting wet is always
a possibility when canoeing, and river clothing has to keep you warm
even when wet. Try to avoid cotton. The problem with cotton is that
once it is wet it absorbs water and does not dry out quickly. During
our travels we will be staying at places where casual clothing is acceptable.
Long pants, short sleeve shirt or blouse and shoes or sandals are our
common form of dress. Remember shorts are not generally recommended
except for sports use.
Contact
Us
BattenKill Canoe, Ltd.
800.421.5268 or 802.362.2800 fax--802.362.0159
©2002 BattenKill Canoe, Ltd.. All rights reserved
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