Canoe Costa Rica day by day itinerary

This is our classic Costa Rica Adventure. We combine comfortable lodges, and good food with canoeing to create the BattenKill blend of hospitality. You step off the plane in cosmopolitan San Jose, slip right through customs, and transfer to the hotel SanGildar. Our welcome dinner is at the Hotel SanGildar, an intimate hotel in the quiet San Jose

suburb of Escazu.

Early the next morning our journey begins deep into the fabric of Costa Rica. We travel through rugged mountains, lush coffee plantations and small villages on our way to Fortuna, near the base of Arenal Volcano. Our first river is the Rio Fortuna where huge trees reach out over the water creating a magical setting. The river corridor forms a verdant oasis providing a haven for wildlife including monkeys, sloths, kingfishers and others. All too soon we are at the take-out, and off to witness one of nature's most spectacular

happenings - an active volcano.
Our journey continues to the Rio Penas Blancas, a quiet isolated river whose scenery is dominated by lush forests, and vibrantly colored birds. We paddle at a leisurely pace allowing us to soak in all that we can, now thoroughly immersed in the true fabric of Costa Rica. Our day continues with a hike near the volcano and a visit to the Tabacon Hot Springs.
We move onto the Rio Arenal for our next day of paddling. This is a secluded river whose scenery is dominated by the volcano, verdant forests, and lively water. From the Rio Arenal we move on to the small northern village of Cano Negro and the Rio Frio. We plan an early start the next morning on the Rio Frio and paddling in the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge. Cayman, sloths, howler monkeys and an array of other mammals and reptiles also make their home in the refuge. After enjoying a day of paddling in Cano Negro we enjoy the evening at Monte Escondido. A beautiful lodge tucked away near the village of Boca Arenal.
Our next river is the Tres Amigos. A lively tree lined river that sparkles and dances throughout its length. We will enjoy some quick water and small rapids today, but still have time to relax and enjoy our surroundings. From our take out we settle in for a bit of drive to the northern village of Boca Tapada and Laguna del Lagarto Lodge. We spend two evenings here and the lodge’s large deck and wrap around porches are ideal for bird watching or just relaxing in a hammock.
The Rio Toro is the next river on our journey. Kingfisher's greenback herons and mangrove swallows escort us through the quickwater and quiet pools throughout the day. Over head we keep an eye open for iguanas and howler monkeys lounging in the trees.
At days end we are welcomed at La Quinta Lodge. Beatrice's efforts and commitment are visible at this wonderful lodge that was once a cattle hacienda and is now surrounded by attractive gardens, a sparkling river, butterfly garden and forest footpaths.
The Sarapiqui River, one of Costa Rica's finest canoeing streams, flows very near La

Quinta making it the perfect choice for a day of paddling. Throughout its length the emerald green water of the river is bordered by verdant tropical rainforest and quiet farmland. The river also offers a variety of small rapids that provide excitement along with wonderful swimming holes, quiet lunch spots and the opportunity to explore some of its tributaries.
And all together too soon we will be on our way back to San Jose, infatuated by this very special country.

Canoa Costa Rica Itinerary
Where and When to go...and how to get there

Day 1:
Leave the States and fly to San Jose, Costa Rica. Our airline desk is able to assist you in making your airline reservations, and we are pleased to do so. 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 that time. If you are arriving prior to Day 1 of the trip, we will make every effort to meet your flight, again this will be dependent on staffing and van availability. Transfers can be confirmed by our Vermont office prior to your departure. Upon arrival you will be met by a member of our staff who will greet you outside the customs and immigration area. Our first evening will be at the Hotel San Gildar in

Escazu. Located just outside the capital city of San Jose, Escazu offers a quiet and relaxed setting. The Hotel San Gildar is open and airy with a refreshing swimming pool and within easy walking distance to the center of Escazu. After dinner we will gather for a brief trip orientation. Welcome.
Lodging - Hotel San Gildar
Day 2:

We plan to have an early breakfast and then leave the hustle and bustle of the central valley and head into the deep fabric of the country. Our first day is a full day. We will travel through the central valley and cross into the Caribbean lowlands. Along the way we pass fields of coffee and sugar cane. The countryside unfolds in front of us with new sights and sounds.
After our morning journey we have reached the put-in on the Rio Penas Blancas. This is the ideal river for our first day of paddling. The gentle current leads us through quiet countryside with plenty of opportunity for birdwatching.
Following an enjoyable paddle we will be welcomed at Hotel Monte Real, located in the small village of Fortuna. We will have time to settle into our rooms before exploring the town and enjoying a typical Costa Rican dinner.
Lodging – Hotel Monte Real, phone 011.506. 479.9357
Note – Dinner is on your own this evening.
Day 3:
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 haven for a collection of birds including Northern Jacana, Little Blue heron and Fly Catchers.
We may want to allow time in the afternoon to enjoy swimming and relaxing in the nearby hot springs. Also there is the opportunity for a hike near the Arenal Volcano, and the chance to watch the volcano put on a show, from low rumbles to hot rocks tumbling down; it is truly a unique experience.
Lodging – Hotel Monte Real, phone 011.506.479.9357
Note – Dinner is on your own this evening. There is an additional park entrance fee to Arenal Volcano National Park.
Day 4:
This morning after a full breakfast of gallo pinto and fresh fruit we are off for a day of paddling. Our river today is the Rio Arenal. The river offers a mix of quick water and quiet water. Throughout its length the river provides many opportunities for birdwatching, relaxing in the sun and perhaps going for a swim. The sights and sounds inundate us through the day and with a careful eye there is always something interesting to see.
The end of the day brings us to the small village of Cano Negro. We will settle into our cabinas and perhaps opt for a paddle at sunset, or a walk to enjoy watching the birds return to roost for the evening.
Lodging – Cano Negro Lodge, phone 011.506.471.1426
Day 5:
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 ducks, ibis, cormorants, wood storks and anhinga, just to name a few. River otter, cayman, sloths, howler monkeys and an array of other mammals and reptiles also make their home in the refuge.
It is a full day of paddling and birdwatching and after taking out of the river we will settle in for a bit of a drive to our next lodge. Tonight we will enjoy an evening at Hotel Monte Escondido. Located near the small town of Boca Arenal, Monte Escondido is an oasis among surrounding pineapple plantations. We are warmly greeted by the staff of the hotel and can look forward to relaxing in hammocks by the pool before gathering for dinner. Lodging – Hotel Monte Escondido, phone 011.506.469.9200
Note – There is an additional park entrance fee for Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Day 6:
Early morning enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching in the gardens and grounds before we gather for breakfast. Once we are finished with breakfast we will load up and be on our way to our next river, the Tres Amigos.
This intimate tree-lined stream river offers clear water, attractive scenery and abundant birdlife, providing the perfect setting for a day of paddling. Our take out is on the way to Laguna del Lagarto lodge. A comfortable lodge in the hinterland of Costa Rica.
Laguna del Lagarto lodge is located near the remote village of Boca Tapada on the northern border of Costa Rica. This tropical setting consists of 750 acres of rich diverse habitats. The lodge has many trails that allow us to explore on our own the wide collection of tropical flora and fauna.
Lodging – Laguna del Lagarto Lodge, phone 011.506.460.7404
Day 7:
We continue are stay at Laguna del Lagarto today. After a leisurely breakfast of fresh fruit, aromatic Costa Rican coffee, gallo pinto, and other homemade treats the day is ours to enjoy.
Choices include taking a walk on one of the many trails the lodge has to offer. The forest is lined with towering liana-draped trees that attract many birds such as oropendolas, hummingbirds, toucans and parrots. If we like, we can enjoy a guided walk through the forest and learn about the rich variety of plants and animals that live in this bio-diverse area. Optional horseback trips are also available to explore the surrounding farmland and forests. Paddling in the laguna is also an option. With it's dark waters and thick vines cascading down the trees like waterfalls, the Laguna provides a wonderful place to explore and let your imagination run.
Whatever we choose to do we will find ourselves drawn to this wonderful setting and reap in all it has to offer.
Lodging - Laguna del Lagarto Lodge
Day 8:
Our river journey continues today with a bit of a difference. If the political mood and weather are safe, we plan to travel by motorized dugout canoe down the San Carlos river to the San Juan River. The San Juan forms the border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua. We will continue our journey to the confluence of the Rio Sarapiqui where we will head upstream to the small village of Puerto Viejo.
This river journey is one that few people take, other than locals, and will provide us with sweeping views of virgin rainforest dotted with small village settlements. Rivers are the lifeblood of this area as they provide transportation, communication and livelihood for families living along the shoreline.
If we opt to paddle today we will head for the Rio Toro. The Toro is a boisterous, but intimate, tree lined stream with clear water, attractive scenery and abundant birdlife providing the perfect setting for a day of paddling.
Evening will find us at La Quinta Lodge, our final destination. La Quinta is a converted cattle hacienda that is surrounded by attractive gardens, a butterfly garden and lush lowlands and large trees that are great for birdwatching.
Lodging - La Quinta Lodge
Note -- The Rio San Juan boat trip is optional and will have an additional fee.
Day 9:
The Sarapiqui river flows near La Quinta providing a perfect choice for paddling today. Throughout its length, the emerald green water of the river is bordered by verdant tropical rainforest, along with quiet farmland. Trees flank the banks and are laden with orchids and bromeliads. The enchanting river lowland is home to parrots, toucans, oropendolas, sun bitterns, kingfishers, cormorants, and herons just to name a few.
The Sarapiqui combines magnificent scenery and a variety of small rapids that provide some excitement to the calm stretches. The river also offers some wonderful swimming holes, quiet spots for lunch and the opportunity to do some exploratory paddling on its tributaries.
We will enjoy another evening at La Quinta Lodge where we can choose from absorbing the forest's wonder in a hammock, relaxing in the open air dining room enjoying fresh tropical fruit, or strolling the grounds birding and admiring the gardens.
Lodging - La Quinta
Day 10:
Another day of river choices. We may choose a different section of the Sarapiqui, or the Rio Puerto Viejo. We may opt for a short section of river that will allow us to return to San Jose in the mid-afternoon where we will have time to visit the markets and museums. Whatever we decide, it will be a fitting end to our tour of rivers and rainforests of Costa Rica.
As we end our day on the river and head back to the Hotel San Gildar for our final evening, we have time to reflect on the scenic wonders of our journey and start thinking of our next trip.
Lodging - Hotel San Gildar
Day 11:
Today we say our farewells and depart from San Jose to home. Or for those who want to do some exploring on your own, we can arrange/suggest some extension trips.

Trip Pricing
Trip prices include lodging, all meals (except where noted in the trip notes), guide service, paddling equipment and accompanying support van. Trips generally meet mid to late afternoon of the first day, and disband mid to late afternoon of the last day.
Prices listed in our printed material or website is subject to change because the trip dates and prices have often been published a year in advance. Between that time and the time of the trip’s actual departure, we are occasionally faced with cost increases or currency fluctuations that we cannot absorb. We make every effort to keep our prices the same as published. As of March 2007 the exchange was $1.00 = 520 colones.
Final Payments
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 confirmation letter and invoice for the exact amount due. BattenKill Canoe, Ltd. reserves the right to regard reservations for these tours as canceled when the payment balance is not received when due.
Incidental trip charges such as small trip surcharge, currency exchange surcharge, and single room surcharge, if applicable, will be invoiced 30 days prior to the trip.

Canoa Costa Rica Trip Notes 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.
Emergency Contact
For emergency contact during the trip please contact our office in Arlington at 802.362.2800. They will contact the guides in Costa Rica as quickly as possible. Phone service in some parts of the country is limited, however, we will attempt to return the call as soon as possible.
General Information
If you have any questions or need special arrangements please call our office. Regular office hours are 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Friday in season. We are open Saturday and Sunday for day trip rentals, but our office staff is limited on weekends. We are generally closed Saturday through Tuesday November through April, although you may catch us in by chance at other times.
Trip prices include lodging, all meals (except when noted) guide services and accompanying support van. Trips generally meet mid to late afternoon of the first day, and disband mid to late afternoon of the last day.
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.

Reservations and Confirmation
Often it is easier to call our office to check for availability and to make reservations. We request a deposit of $350.00. Immediate confirmation is possible using your credit card for the deposit.
On receipt of your deposit we prepare a complete confirmation packet, including a full itinerary, personal equipment list, meeting location with directions, and an application for short?term trip cancellation insurance. We strongly recommend that you obtain this cancellation insurance, which reimburses you for nonrefundable costs and deposits should you have to cancel your trip due to a personal emergency.
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 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.
Cancellation and Refunds
Notification must be received by BATTENKILL CANOE LTD. (BCL) in writing. If you must cancel, but wish to reschedule for another trip, we will do our best to accommodate you. If you must cancel more than 60 days prior to departure, a refund of 50% of the per person deposit, OR a 100% credit valid for another trip will be held in your name. There are no refunds possible with less than 60 days notice or for leaving a trip early or arriving late.
Non Performance
We almost always follow through with our entire trip schedule. However, we must reserve the right to cancel a trip or to make changes to the itinerary, if necessary, due to weather and/or water conditions, insufficient reservations or other factors outside of our control. Although it is unlikely, if we must cancel your trip, you may choose between: 1) a 100% refund of all monies paid; or 2) a 150% credit of your original deposit for a future trip with BATTENKILL CANOE, LTD. This constitutes full settlement, and BATTENKILL CANOE, LTD cannot be held responsible for other costs incurred.
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.
Accommodations & Meals
Our standard accommodation is two per room, generally with a private bath. Usually singles and triples are available. BattenKill Canoe, Ltd provides three meals per day, beginning with dinner on the first evening and ending with lunch on the last day (except where noted).
Solo Travelers
If you're traveling alone and would like to assure yourself of a private room, there is a single supplement surcharge of $45.00 per evening. Singles willing to share will be matched with a roommate. If unavailable, a forced single supplement of 50% of the full supplement will be charged.
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.
Responsibility
You must understand that river trips involve some risk and you have the responsibility to select a trip appropriate for your ability and interest. We will be happy to discuss our trips with you, as well as provide names of past participants who can describe their experience of the trip you are interested in. You will be asked to sign a Hold Harmless and Release of Liability form prior to your trip.
BattenKill Canoe, Ltd reserves the right to substitute lodges, leaders and to alter the itinerary when deemed necessary or advisable. BattenKill Canoe, Ltd shall not be liable, directly or indirectly for any delay, cancellation, mishap, inconvenience, expense, personal injury, death, or damage of property for any reason whatsoever, including acts of God. BATTENKILL CANOE, LTD reserves the right to decline, accept, retain, or ask any person to leave whose actions or deportment impede trip operation, or the rights, welfare and enjoyment of other trip members. No refund is possible under these circumstances.
Payment of deposit, and release of credit card number represents your acceptance of these terms and conditions. All disputes shall be settled by binding arbitration in Bennington County, Vermont.
Airline Reservations
Our airline desk is able to assist you in making your airline reservations, and we are pleased to do so. 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 that time. If you are arriving prior to Day 1 of the trip, we will make every effort to meet your flight; 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 pre-departure information and guide services to help you get the most our of your trip.
· All ground transportation within Costa Rica
· Lodging accommodations and all meals beginning with dinner on day 1 through breakfast on day 11. Except where noted they will be on your own.
Fully escorted, BATTENKILL CANOE, LTD exclusive tour of Costa Rica.
Not Included
· Round trip transportation from hometown to gateway city.
· Airport transfers in Costa Rica
· 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, LTD or its agents cannot make provisions.
Travel Documents
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 and hepatitis are concerns when traveling in any Central American country. The national Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) does recommend taking malaria medication when traveling to a country with known cases of malaria. We suggest you contact your personal physician, a clinic that specializes in foreign travel medicine or the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/travel. We are happy to discuss any questions or concerns you may have in regard to health requirements while traveling with us.

Lonely Planet Guide to Costa Rica -- Michael Rachowiecki
A guide book written by a guide for Wilderness Travel. The country is broken down into sections, and Rachowiecki is not afraid to offer his opinion regarding hotel, lodgings and restaurant listings.

Costa Rica Traveler -- Ellen Searby
Searby definitely has a feel for the country, and you will enjoy the environmental and ecological outlook she provides.

Birds of Costa Rica -- Gary Stiles and Alexander Skutch
A big technical book of the birds of Costa Rica, designed for the serious birdwatcher, but it is invaluable for the novice who wants detailed information.

Trip Extensions
Costa Rica is a diverse and unique country. If your timetable permits we encourage you to extend your stay and discover more of this beautiful area. Listed below are a few suggestions for trip extensions. Our staff will be happy to answer your questions and help you set up your trip. Extensions are generally three to five days in length, although some may be longer if desired.
A separate deposit is requested when you make your reservation for an extension. Please forward $100.00 per person for two to three-day extensions, and $250.00 for four day and longer extensions. When arrangements have been confirmed, full payment is requested 60 days prior, or immediately if less than 60 days.
MONTEVERDE - A privately owned reserve atop the Continental Divide, Monteverde protects six different wildlife communities on both the Caribbean and Pacific slopes. Among the over 400 bird species found here, the Resplendent Quetzal is considered to be the most beautiful bird in the world.
The cloud forest is characterized by dense vegetation, with majestic trees, ferns, bromeliads, vines mosses and a side array of orchids.
MANUEL ANTONIO -- This is the most popular national park in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio offers dense rainforests spilling down onto spectacular white sand beaches. Wide ranges of activities are available during your stay including hiking through the park trails, sunbathing on the beach, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding and sea kayaking.
RARA AVIS -- Rara Avis is designed to show that rainforests are a valuable economic resource that should not be destroyed and that can produce substantial economic benefits for the surrounding communities.
This remote private rainforest provides a true immersion into the flourishing web of life in a magnificent tropical forest. A nature guide leads you on a rainforest hike to the base of a 180-foot three-tiered waterfall, where you can take a swim in the clear pools.
TORTUGUERO - Meaning "place of the turtles" in Spanish, is one of the most important nesting sites for the Caribbean green sea turtles. This magical place is located in a series of canals that provides hours of exploration by canoe or foot.
MUSEUMS & MARKETS OF SAN JOSE -- A busy metropolis San Jose is a city rich in diversity. Open air markets and street vendors are a shopper's paradise. Many of the city's parks and plazas are gathering places for jugglers, magicians, and marimba bands.
The museums of San Jose allow you to get a feel for the country. They include the National Museum, the Museum of Costa Rican Art, the Jade Museum, and the Gold Museum.

Canoa Costa Rica

Classic comfortable adventure and
canoeing the best of Costa Rica.

11 day moderate quick water
lodge based trip

Canoa Costa Rica Itinerary
Where and When to go...and how to get there

Canoa Costa Rica Trip Notes Supplement

What To Bring For Canoa Costa Rica

Canoa Costa Rica

Classic comfortable adventure and canoeing the best of Costa Rica.

11 day moderate quick water lodge based trip

Canoa Costa Rica Itinerary Where and When to go...and how to get there

Canoa Costa Rica Trip Notes Supplement

What To Bring For Canoa Costa Rica

Classic comfortable adventure and
canoeing the best of Costa Rica.

11 day moderate quick water
lodge based trip

Canoa Costa Rica Itinerary
Where and When to go...and how to get there