Join us as we explore the region and learn about its history, culture and heritage; drive past quaint villages and fertile plantations on the way to the Pachira Lodge dock where you’ll embark on a cruise to the peaceful Tortuguero Canals a network of natural and man-made waterways; As you cruise the canal in your covered boat, keep your eyes open as you might be able to spot wildlife, such as sloths, howler monkeys, crocodiles and many waterfowl species, participate in a guided walk through the tropical rain forest using a network of above-ground cemented pathways. At the dock, you’ll be served a boxed fruit snack. Afterwards, re-board your transportation for the short drive to the train stop where you’ll depart on an open-air train that made its first trip in 1950 and gave birth to the banana industry. Upon arrival at the stop, you will re-board your transportation and head for a visit to a demonstrative banana and other fruits with a chance to purchase some locally made souvenirs, before heading back to your ship.

OVERVIEW

Double your adventure with this full-day experience that combines a serene pontoon boat ride through the world-famous Tortuguero Canals with an immersive journey into the Veragua Rainforest. Begin with a scenic drive to the canal dock, where you’ll board a covered flat-bottom boat for a relaxing ride through waterways often called “Costa Rica’s Amazon.” Your naturalist guide will point out orchids, water lilies, monkeys, sloths, toucans, and other wildlife that thrive in this lush ecosystem. After enjoying a tropical fruit snack, continue to Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure Park. Here, expert guides will lead you through the live frog, snake, and butterfly exhibits before you board the open-air aerial tram for a breathtaking glide through the rainforest canopy. As you descend to the river level, you’ll be surrounded by towering 300-year-old trees and unspoiled jungle. Conclude with a nature walk on the Trail of the Giants, or choose the optional 350-step hike to the spectacular two-tiered Puma Waterfall. The day ends with a visit to the Foundation for Rainforest Research labs for a presentation by a rainforest researcher, a delicious hot lunch and time for souvenir shopping before your return to the ship.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the Tortuguero Canals and spot monkeys, sloths, tropical birds, and more.
• Visit the frog, snake, and butterfly exhibits at Veragua Rainforest.
• Glide through the treetops on the open-air Sky Gondola with panoramic views.
• Walk the Trail of the Giants or hike to the dramatic Puma Waterfall.
• Enjoy a Costa Rican lunch and browse the rainforest gift shop before heading back.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, hat/visor, insect repellent, and bring a poncho or umbrella.
• Bring cash or a credit card for optional purchases at the gift shop.
• Wildlife sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed.

OVERVIEW

Discover two of Costa Rica’s most remarkable ecosystems on this full-day adventure that combines a canal cruise with an in-depth rainforest experience. Begin with a scenic bus transfer to a private dock, where you will board a covered boat for a gentle cruise through the Tortuguero Canals, often called “Costa Rica’s Amazon.” As you drift past orchids, water lilies, and lush mangroves, your naturalist guide will help you spot wildlife such as sloths, monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, toucans, and other tropical birds. After enjoying a seasonal tropical fruit snack, continue to the Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure Park, set high in the mountains. Here you will explore frog and reptile exhibits, one of the country’s largest butterfly gardens, and the Foundation laboratories to learn about groundbreaking scientific research. Then glide through the rainforest canopy aboard the Sky Gondola, descending from the mountaintop to the river below with spectacular views along the way. Enjoy a nature walk on the Trail of the Giants or choose the more challenging 350-step trail to the Puma Waterfall. Your visit concludes with a delicious Costa Rican lunch and free time for souvenir shopping in the gift shop, where proceeds support local rainforest conservation efforts.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the lush Tortuguero Canals and spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Explore the Veragua Rainforest, including frog and reptile exhibits and the butterfly garden.
• Ride the Sky Gondola for a breathtaking view of the rainforest canopy.
• Take a guided nature walk or optional hike to the Puma Waterfall.
• Enjoy a Costa Rican lunch and shop for local crafts that support rainforest research.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes, light clothing, and bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a poncho or umbrella.
• Bring cash or credit card for optional purchases in the gift shop.
• Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed.

Many consider Limón to be a magical place and with its lush rainforest and amazing vistas. Join us as we explore the region and learn about its history and people; take a pleasant stroll through the tropical rain forest and cruise the Tortuguero Canals in this half day excursion.

Travel in air-conditioned comfort as your guide points out places of interest around the city that retain its old roots. Limón was originally founded as a city to ship bananas to Europe and North America. As you drive past quaint villages and fertile plantations, you will enjoy a walk through the rainforest using cemented walkways. As you saunter along keep your eyes open (and camera ready!) for wildlife that might peek out, such as monkeys and other creatures that call this paradise home.

Next, board an open-air covered boat for a journey along the peaceful Tortuguero Canals, also known as the Caribbean version of the Amazon. Your boat ride offers one of the most exuberant landscapes in Costa Rica, with a rich biological diversity and more than 400 species of trees, 2,000 species of other plants and 60 species of amphibians. Birds common along the canals which you may see include green and great blue herons, egrets, belted kingfishers and jacanas. Once you arrive at the restaurant facilities, enjoy delicious tropical fruits and natural refreshments. You'll have time to stop by the family gift shop for souvenirs before boarding your transportation for a city tour around Limon, before heading back to your ship.

Relax and enjoy your two hour drive to the rainforest and discover this private reserve that is connected to the 2nd largest national park in Costa Rica, Braulio Carrillo National Park. Experience the rainforest as never before! This fascinating open-air gondola ride will give you a bird's-eye view of the most interesting part of the rainforest – the canopy. Your aerial tram will take you into the heart of the rainforest.

The rainforest canopy is teeming with wildlife. You’ll see towering trees, giant ferns, bursts of color and myriad wildlife form part of this natural hanging garden. After your ride, take an optional one hour guided walk through the rainforest, garnering a deeper appreciation from this perspective of this complex environment.

A professional naturalist certified guide will introduce you to the most important aspects of the Afro-Caribbean Culture of Costa Rica, and show you the rich wildlife of this fascinating region.

During this tour you will visit: • Moin Lookout point, where the guide will explain the details of the economy of Costa Rica.
• Banana Plantations, from outside the guide will provide you the facts about this fruit, including the crop, harvesting, processing, packing and exportation.
• Bananito Town, where you will see how the people that works at the banana plantations live.
• Fruit Market, you will have the opportunity to visit a small fruit market.

Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Puerto Limon coastline during the bus drive back to the pier.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy the perfect mix of nature and flavor on this immersive half-day excursion. Just a short 25-minute ride from the pier, board a covered boat for a gentle cruise through the Tortuguero Canals, often referred to as “Costa Rica’s Amazon.” Your naturalist guide will point out orchids, water lilies, and lush vegetation, while you keep your eyes open for monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, toucans, and other fascinating wildlife. After your canal adventure, savor a tropical fruit snack before visiting a local cacao artisan for an interactive chocolate-making demonstration. Learn about the history of cacao in Costa Rica, see how it is transformed into chocolate, and sample fresh cacao and handmade chocolate treats. Stroll through the artisan’s tropical garden, where fruit trees and vibrant flowers attract colorful birds, and conclude your visit with free time at the small on-site shop offering locally made chocolate and souvenirs.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the Tortuguero Canals, spotting monkeys, sloths, exotic birds, and more.
• Learn about cacao cultivation and chocolate making from a local artisan.
• Taste fresh cacao and handmade chocolate during a fun demonstration..
• Explore tropical gardens filled with fruit trees and vibrant flowers.
• Shop for locally crafted chocolate and souvenirs that support the community.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and light clothing; bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
• Bring cash or a credit card for optional purchases at the artisan shop.

OVERVIEW

Immerse yourself in the history, culture, music, and flavors of Puerto Limón on this enriching half-day experience. Begin with a short ride to Parque Vargas in downtown Limón for a guided walking tour of this historic park and town center. Admire seaside views of Uvita Island, where Christopher Columbus landed in 1502, and browse an outdoor art exhibit at Pasaje Cristal, where local artists display their work. Next, take a scenic coastal drive to Playa Bonita Beach for a brief photo stop, time to meet local vendors, and a chance to shop for souvenirs. Continue to Limón’s Cultural House for a lively presentation of world-famous Calypso music, complete with dancers and plenty of Caribbean rhythm. Your final stop is the historic United Fruit Company building, where you’ll take part in an interactive Caribbean cooking experience. Led by an entertaining local chef, you’ll prepare traditional dishes such as rice and beans, meat patties, and sweet pastries—then sit down to taste your creations before returning to the ship.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stroll through Parque Vargas and the historic town center, with views of Columbus’ landing site.
• Shop for local crafts and meet artists at Pasaje Cristal.
• Stop at Playa Bonita Beach for photos and time to browse local vendors.
• Experience a live Calypso music and dance performance at Limón’s Cultural House.
• Join a fun and flavorful Caribbean cooking class inside the historic United Fruit Company building.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, light clothing, and bring a poncho or raincoat, hat/visor, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
• Bring cash for souvenirs and tips.
• Be ready to walk about 1 mile on uneven surfaces, including cobblestones, gravel, and sand.

OVERVIEW

Experience Costa Rica’s most famous canopy zipline adventure deep in the heart of the Veragua Rainforest. After a scenic drive through the lush countryside, you will arrive at the private mountain reserve bordering La Amistad International Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your expert guides will provide all necessary gear, a detailed safety orientation, and prepare you for an unforgettable adventure. Then it’s time to soar! Glide silently from platform to platform on a system of 11 ziplines and 11 platforms, including one that spans the length of more than two football fields and rises 150 feet above the forest floor. As you fly through the treetops, take in panoramic views of the primary rainforest and keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and butterflies that inhabit one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. After your zipline adventure, remove your gear and enjoy a tropical fruit snack and refreshing beverage before relaxing or shopping for souvenirs at the park’s gift outlet.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience the Original Canopy Tour with 11 traverses and 11 platforms high above the rainforest.
• Marvel at spectacular views of La Amistad International Park, the largest park in Central America.
• Keep your camera ready for sightings of monkeys, sloths, and over 400 species of tropical birds.
• Enjoy a refreshing snack and free time to relax or browse souvenirs before returning to the pier.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops), light clothing, and bring sunscreen and a hat.
• Professional photos of your zipline experience are available for purchase on most days.
• Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed.

Unwind and relax on one of the world’s most exotic beaches, ranked on one of the best in Central America, Puerto Viejo.

Puerto Viejo will give you the relaxing atmosphere of a beach town as well as an insight to the Caribbean feel and “Pura Vida” lifestyle represented by the locals. Enjoy a scenic ride from the port to the beach town and a local hotel where you will be able to enjoy the views of one of the most beautiful regions of the country. Talk a walk around Puerto Viejo where you will have the opportunity to shop and see the local artisan shops and find a truly authentic Costa Rican arts & crafts.

OVERVIEW

Venture into the lush mountains of Turrialba for a full-day immersion into Costa Rica’s world-famous coffee culture. Your journey begins with a scenic drive through rolling hills and valleys before arriving at Aquiares Estate, the country’s longest-running coffee plantation, founded in the late 19th century. Take a guided walk through the plantation to see coffee plants at various stages of growth, learn about traditional cultivation techniques, and enjoy sweeping views of the valley from the scenic lookout point. Continue with a fascinating tour of the estate’s historic coffee mill, where you’ll watch the drying, processing, and roasting of premium beans destined for coffee lovers worldwide. After your tour, savor a fresh cup of coffee and shop for estate-grown beans and blends to take home. Your visit concludes with a short walk to the nearby Aquiares Church, established in 1925 and a National Historic Monument, and its community hall, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch in a serene mountain setting before returning to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel through the scenic Turrialba Valley, one of Costa Rica’s most famous coffee-growing regions.
• Explore Costa Rica’s longest-running coffee estate and see how coffee is cultivated and processed.
• Visit the estate’s historic mill to watch coffee beans dried, milled, and roasted.
• Sample freshly brewed coffee and purchase premium beans to take home.
• Enjoy a delicious traditional lunch in the heart of a charming mountain community.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes; the plantation includes dirt trails and uneven terrain.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water for the walk.
• The hike to the scenic lookout involves approximately 200 steps but is optional.

OVERVIEW

Look for indigenous wildlife while walking through Cahuita National Park as a prelude to relaxing on one of its spectacularly scenic beaches. The park's lowland coastal rainforest and coral reefs just offshore are both protected ecosystems where flora and fauna flourish. As you meander along the trails, you may spot vociferous howler monkeys, slow-moving three-toed sloths, and colorful birds such as keel-billed toucans in the fruit-bearing trees. If the weather permits, enjoy a refreshing dip in the Caribbean waters before venturing into Cahuita Village to shop for local goods and continue to a demonstrative banana plantation to gain insight into the fascinating process of banana cultivation.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Walk through Cahuita National Park while our certified naturalist guide describes the flora and fauna.
• Look for monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds in the rainforest canopy.
• Relax on a pristine shoreline stretch of sand within the national park.
• Visit a banana plantation and discover the economic importance of bananas.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.