Mon, Apr 13: Fly from Indianapolis to San Jose, Costa Rica. Transfer to your hotel for a one-night stay and a welcome dinner with the group. (Meals: Dinner)

Tue, Apr 14: Today, transfer by bus to the pier in Cano Blanco, passing pineapple orchards and banana plantations before boarding a boat transfer to Tortuguero, not accessible by car. Tortuguero National Park spans three-quarters of Costa Rica’s eastern coastline. The region offers an abundance of wetlands, rivers, lagoons, and canals that provide a stunning view of the area’s rich flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Also referred to as “Central America’s Amazon” it is home to incredible diversity. Here you may encounter caymans, monkeys, sloths, toucans, manatees, jaguars, and over 400 species of birds. Translated as “Land of Turtles”, the Tortuguero beaches around the area are also a key site for four species of sea turtles to lay their eggs in nesting season. Check into the lodge for a two-night stay and take in the amazing surroundings before joining the group for dinner. (B,L,D)

Wed, Apr 15: Rise early to discover the quiet beauty of the park with a seasoned guide walking along the hotel’s private trails. Take a break at the hotel before a guided float adventure through Tortuguero National Park’s canals by open small boats for optimum wildlife viewing.  Stay alert and you might see a spider monkey, green macaw, caiman, river turtle, red and blue frog, howler monkey, white-faced monkey, jaguar, sloth, manatee, and toucans. Enjoy some time at leisure before dinner at the lodge.  (B,L,D)

Thu, Apr 16: Following breakfast, set a course for the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano region where the towering peak of the volcano commands the landscape, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. The region offers a variety of activities, from hiking and birdwatching to hot springs and waterfalls, with the nearby town of La Fortuna providing delicious local cuisine. Stop along the way for lunch and photo opportunities before checking into your hotel for a three-night stay in a private bungalow. (B,L,D)

Fri, Apr 17: Start the morning with an adventure to explore the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a circuit of 15 bridges and trails through the colorful tropical rainforest. The view of the volcano from the hanging bridges over the forest makes an unforgettable experience. With more than 50 bird species in the area, being in the tree canopy offers the best viewing opportunities. Spend some time at leisure this afternoon for individual pursuits. Later, head to Eco Termales Hot Springs, an upscale, thermal hot springs experience to relax and rejuvenate. The hyper-thermal, magnesia-filled springs that await are of magmatic origin with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties from the Arenal Volcano. Devour a traditional meal prepared by the onsite chef before returning to the hotel for the night. (B,D)

Sat, Apr 18: Embark on a guided sloth tour! Have an opportunity to admire the most popular species in the region, learn about its natural history and other important details you may be surprised to hear! The guide will look for the best places to observe them in their natural habitat, leading you through beautiful open areas in where you may also encounter the multicolored toucan, iguanas, and monkeys, among others. Later this afternoon, tour a campesino (local farm) and sample fruits and legumes that have been produced organically. Grind and taste sugar cane and sample the delicious juice made in a typical artisanal trapiche. Top off the day participating in a traditional cooking class where you will learn how to prepare authentic recipes and share dinner with the family—an experience filled with true Costa Rican culture, customs, and traditions that you will cherish long after the tour ends. (B,D) 

Sun, Apr 19: After experiencing the best the rainforest has to offer, travel west to the beach, but not without stopping between the foothills of the Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range and the San Carlos plains to take a  discovery walk of native plants, animals, and remains of lava tracts at Arenal Volcano National Park, one of the most visited destinations. Several trail options allow all to experience its grandeur. Continue to the beach, and after checking in for your two-night stay at the Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort, the choice is yours to enjoy amenities including three unique pool areas, exploring the vibrant beach town with restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. (B,D)

Mon, Apr 20: The day is yours to do as little or as much as you wish! Sip a refreshing tropical drink at the pool, or venture out on a snorkeling or scenic cruising excursion to encounter dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, or perhaps even a breaching whale in the crystal-clear Pacific waters. After your fun-filled day, end your trip with a gourmet dinner under the stars at a famous local restaurant. (B,D)

Tue, Apr 21: Pack your bags and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for Liberia, the largest city in the Guanacaste Province, and fly back to Indianapolis. (B)