This tour represents the most remarkable and pure coffee and oxcart tradition and history in Costa Rica. The tradition of the oxcarts is linked to the coffee production and harvest in the early years of the country. Despite modern means of production and transit, oxcarts are still symbols of prosperity and wealth. You will travel by bus to a coffee plantation. The property is surrounded by 640 acres of a prime coffee plantation, where the secrets of a real good cup of coffee are carefully held. From the plantation entrance, your tour guide will explain how organic coffee is grown, harvested, and processed to produce some of the world's finest coffee beans. You will learn about Costa Rican history and have the opportunity to taste a freshly roasted cup of coffee. After this visit you will travel 1.5 hours to the town of Sarchi, known as the Cradle of Costa Rican Artisans because of its fine workshops. Here you will have time to observe the work of the local artisans as they create their famous oxcarts. There will be time for you to shop for souvenirs prior to the 1.5 hour drive back to your hotel. Please note: Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and an umbrella.

Arriving to San Jose, the capital and largest city in Costa Rica, San Jose has a lot to offer its visitors that hail from around the world. It is a contrasted city with exhilarating expressions of history, traditions, art and architecture. The tour will begin with an initial orientation and drive through the beautiful Sabana Park. Next, you will take a walking tour through the historic National Theater. Completed in 1897, the theater is a masterpiece in art and architecture. Afterwards, you will visit one of the many unique museums of Costa Rica, The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum which has an extraordinary collection of gold objects that reflect the world view, social structure, and gold-working techniques of the Pre-Columbian peoples of Costa Rica. The exhibition showcases the use and function of the pieces, the technology of their fabrication, and their relationship to the natural world and the daily life of these societies. The collection consists of 1,600 pieces of Pre-Columbian gold work that date from 500 A.D. to 1500 A.D. After this extraordinary museum tour, you will continue heading to the National Museum, Atlantic Ferrocarril Station . Rail transport in Costa Rica is under the ownership of Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocarriles (INCOFER). The Estación al Atlántico (Atlantic Station) today serves as the San José hub for the commuter train to Heredia and Cartago provinces. You will be transferred to your Windstar Hotel. Please note : Travel will be along winding roads. There may be a stop to drop off Windstar guests at the airport before the final stop at the Windstar Hotel.

At the port you will be greeted by your naturalist guide and board the air conditioned bus for a relaxing 75-minute drive through the countryside. Along the way, your guide will provide you with fascinating information regarding Costa Rica's culture and history, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions. This is an exclusive tour into the elusive Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center , located in the town of Turrucares, an old fashioned town. Never before has a cruise ship guest had an all access pass to the most amazing fauna conservation effort in the country and had the chance to interact first hand with all the wildlife imaginable; toucans, hawks, monkeys, sloths, tamanduas, ant eaters, and parrots are some of the few animals you may encounter in this magical location where the foundation is working endlessly to restore all of these animals to good health so they can later be released back into the wild. At the conclusion of your unforgettable morning, you'll re-board your private coach and enjoy a delightful 30-minute ride through the countryside to Brasil de Mora, situated on the outskirts of San José. At Costa Rica's Craft Brewing Co . you will see first-hand how Costa Ricans have integrated their "pura vida" lifestyle into what has been considered one of the 100 best breweries in the world and see first-hand how the process to make quality beer is developed, and above all get to enjoy a beer tasting session with these fine brews. Finish off your tour with a hearty lunch of food cooked and stewed in the beer itself. Finally you will be dropped off at the Juan Santamaria International Airport. Please note : Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and credit card. This tour is for disembarking guests with flights 3 p.m. or later. This tour concludes at the airport.

Enjoy a full day tour to Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Board your bus and find yourself surrounded by an abundance of nature in less than two hours. Rincon del la Vieja National Park is the only active volcano in the Guanacaste Mountain range and its flora and fauna makes this area one of the most ecologically diverse environments in Guanacaste. Your naturalist will take you on a guided walk while letting you in on the secrets of the forest as they point out the hidden wildlife around you. This refuge is home to monkeys, lizards, butterflies, insects, and a variety of colorful birds, including toucans, parrots, and woodpeckers. As you continue on your nature walk you'll discover bubbling volcanic muds and steamy sulfur ponds. Lastly, you'll find a small path of varied terrain and hanging bridges that bring you to La Oropendola waterfall. This impressive 25 meter falls feeds into a bubbling turquoise pool that's truly a tropical oasis. After the waterfall, you'll have time to relax and enjoy a prepared lunch before returning back to the ship. Please note : Wear light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, hat or visor, and sunglasses. Additionally, please bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a bottle of water. Windstar Cruises mut provide full names and passport numbers for all guests who book this tour within 72 hours of the tour start time. As a result, this tour is not able to be booked or cancelled within 72 hours of the tour start date.

Have you ever wanted to be a cowboy or sabanero, riding freely across boundless fields, and herding cattle under the open sky? At Hacienda Aromal, your dream comes alive! This unique adventure offers immersion in natural beauty, personalized services, authentic facilities, and a professional staff. You'll have a brief safety introduction upon arrival at Hacienda Aromal before your horseback riding journey begins. After the safety briefing, you'll be accompanied by experienced sabaneros in traditional attire and explore the wildlife-rich trails spotting deer, armadillos, raccoons, anteaters, and tropical birds. Your horseback ride will take you through lush countryside and genuine savannahs before participating in herding cattle and horses into different paddocks! Lastly, you'll cap off this thrilling experience with snacks and refreshing drinks before making your way back to the pier. Please note : We recommend you wear light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, long pants, hat or visor, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent. Additionally, consider bringing a camera, binoculars, and a bottle of water.

This tour will take you on a Costa Rican cultural experience , where you will get a taste of how Costa Rican ancestors used to live in the 19th century. Once you arrive at Hacienda El Viejo , you will be welcomed with fresh fruits and refreshments at the Hacienda House. Get a glimpse of the "Sabanero" life style, by visiting a real old sabanero house and taste delicious homemade snacks and coffee. You will also have the opportunity to prepare a handmade tortilla yourself. You will also learn how artisan sugar cane candy is done. Transfer by motor coach for a boat adventure that will allow you to witness the beauty of the Tempisque River, bordering spectacular Palo Verde National Park as it flows into the Gulf of Nicoya. Along the way you will be able to observe the most amazing variety of birds, looking for crocodiles, iguanas, and monkeys and enjoying this beautiful ecosystem. You will then delight your palate with delicious homemade regional Costa Rican styled lunch, while immersing yourself in the authentic lifestyle of Guanacaste and the ambiance of beautiful Hacienda House. The views from the ample corridors will provide additional value as the savannahs and sugar cane fields extend before your eyes. Please note: All animals in this national park are wild animals. Please do not feed them. Wear light clothing, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, sunblock, and bring a hat. You will be given a life jacket on the river boat. Wet landing is required please wear water shoes.

Adrenaline lovers - this is a tour for you. You'll arrive at the canopy tour after a 30-minute drive from the pier. This private reserve protects an important tropical dry forest area. The reason is simple: for the last decade, thousands of hectares of this precious forest have been cut down for its beautiful selection of hardwoods. Today, throughout the entire American continent it is only possible to find dry forest reserves in northwestern Costa Rica. A platform located at ground level on the upper side of a canyon will mark the beginning of your experience. Using industry-approved, ultra-safe harness equipment, you will travel on a network of steel cables that connect eight trees in the forest. This will be your road to excitement while you learn the secrets of the dry forest. Gliding from tree to tree, you will have a bird's-eye view of the forest. Please note : There are 90 steps to manage in order to reach the first platform. This tour is not suitable for guests with fear of heights and it is only recommended for people in good physical condition. A waiver must be signed before the tour starts. Wear comfortable clothing, a hat, comfortable close-toed shoes, and bring insect repellent and sunscreen. Wet landing is required please wear water shoes.

Indulge in a relaxing day tour to a hot spring and mud bath. Drive northeast from Playas del Coco through the picturesque roads and rural towns of Guanacaste Province. Here, you'll find a large natural mineral hot spring that descends from the volcano. Surrounded by nature, there are multiple pools to choose from, so try one or try them all! You can also enjoy a mineral-rich mud treatment. The all-natural mud is extracted from the Rincon de la Vieja volcano and is an excellent exfoliant used for softening skin and the improving circulation. After your soak in the hot springs, you'll have lunch and learn about the 'trapiche' or sugar mill and how it plays an important part in Costa Rican history before returning back to the ship. Please note : Wear comfortable clothing, a hat, close-toed shoes, and bring insect repellent and sunscreen.

Discover an enchanting marine world. Beautiful reefs and colorful and pristine beaches are the sites where you will see the marine life abundant in the tropics . Board your catamaran for a 50-minute sail to your snorkeling destinatio n. Snorkeling around the Flamingo area, where you will have 90 minutes to discover an enchanting marine world. Gaze off the boat with a r efreshing tropical drink and snacks served by the crew, as you scan the seas for dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish and so much more. It is an experience you should not miss! Please note : Wear light clothing, hat, bathing suit under your clothes, bring sunscreen, insect repellent, suntan lotion, and a towel. Snorkeling equipment will be provided.

Punta Leona, Los Suenos Canopy Tour (Strenuous)

Punta Leona, 4WD From Rivers to the Oceans (Easy)

Experience a fun and informative tour of local cuisine, learn where the organic ingredients come from, how dishes are prepared, and how to recreate recipes at home. Once in the small town of Londres , at a private ranch and dining area, you will be greeted by the team. They will proceed to guide you through the garden to pick out some finishing flavors, colors and textures for your meal. Now, to the preparation guided by their expert local cooks. Participate in the kitchen and experience the process of making corn tortillas by hand, exotic "ceviches" with plantain, rice cooked the old-fashioned way, chicken in a hearty tomato sauce, "picadillos" and more. Once you sit down for your meal, not only will your appetite be satiated but also your curiosity for Costa Rican local flavors. Let your imagination soar on how to recreate at home with your own seasonal ingredients. There will be leisure time available for you to explore the ranch. Please note : Wear light comfortable clothing.

A boat ride through the mangroves is like visiting another world. The species of trees that grow in the mixed waters of the ocean and the river make a unique and very fragile ecosystem . Most of these trees grow along the estuary, developing an aerial root system. As the tide goes down the roots become suspended in the air creating a perfect home for crabs and caimans. In the upper part of the forest you will see monkeys and a great variety of birds including herons, egrets, and spoonbills. The launch will take you to a private property for refreshments as your naturalist tour guide gives you more information about this amazing ecosystem. Your shaded boat will then take you deep into the mangroves, where you will try to spot all the incredible wildlife making their home there. After a 2- hour boat ride you will arrive at the village where transportation will be waiting to drive you back to the ship. An optional drop off in Quepos is also available, where you will find several restaurants and shops. Please note : Wear light clothing, good walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Experience a unique piece of Costa Rican rural heritage just about an hour from Quepos on a scenic country drive by van. This guided nature, conservation, and cultural expedition takes you along the lush, jungle-shrouded slopes of the nearby Fila Chonta Mountains to the farm village of Santa Juana . You will enjoy exploring along the 1.5-mile user-friendly nature trail as your guide will share knowledge of this pristine sanctuary of flora and fauna where both the Rodeo and Paquita Rivers are born. You will continue to where you can swim beneath the pristine waterfalls that feed the Rodeo River. You will have free time to fish for tilapia or explore the tropical gardens and waterfalls. You will visit the tiny farm village of Santa Juana, overlooking the panoramic coastline of the Pacific Ocean as you enjoy an authentic Campesino (country) lunch in a typical village rancho, co-hosted by members of the local community. Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. The road is bumpy and winding and there are stairs involved. This tour includes a light breakfast and a buffet lunch. There is an option for swimming so wear your bathing suit under your clothes.

Manuel Antonio National Park is the jewel of Costa Rica's large number of national parks. Its fragile rainforest ecosystem shelters a variety of wildlife including mammals and tropical birds. The dense rainforest opens into small trails where your naturalist tour guide will acquaint you with all the information regarding the transitional forest. Another great attraction is the white-sand beach that meets the jungle. The park protects 683 hectares of tropical rainforest and over 1,000 different species of flora . This walk is by far one of the best in the Central Pacific, and a great opportunity to get closer to the forest. The trail followed will be a moderate walk with paths made out of gravel, dirt, and sand. There are also exposed roots that you need to manage. After a 20-minute drive your 1.5-hour guided walk will lead you to the beach where you will have time for sunbathing or swimming. At the end of this walk your naturalist tour guide will prepare a tropical fruit buffet to regain your energy and then you will head back to Quepos where an optional drop off in the town of Quepos will be available. Please note : In order to enter the National Park, we are required to submit your full name, passport number, age and nationality. We will need this information more than 72 hours in advance and there will be no cancellations within 72 hours of departure. This shore excursion is non-refundable. If you booked Trip Protection through Windstar Cruises this shore excursion is covered under the trip protection plan. As a result, your trip protection premium will increase. The walking is moderate with some uphill climbs. It is recommended to wear light clothing, good walking shoes/hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. Wear a bathing suit under your clothes and bring a towel if you want to sunbathe at the beach. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Remain hydrated as the temperature is usually humid and hot. Manuel Antonio Park is considered one of most visited National Parks in Costa Rica. Please expect congestion in the park and long lines at the park's only entrance. The early start will help reduce wait time and increase chances to view wildlife.

This is an excursion for adrenaline lovers. You will be picked up at La Marina and go to the property where you will start your horseback riding tour. During the 30-minute drive to Londres - where the tour starts - your guide will give you an interesting briefing about the history of Quepos. Once you reach Londres you will set foot on a picturesque property that has bathrooms, stables, a corral and an open air waiting area. You will receive riding instructions, safety tips and practice time, before heading out to explore the rainforest. This tour will allow you to uncover the exotic secrets that lie within this secondary rainforest. The maximum altitude of this area is 1,900 feet. You will ride through the mountains without reaching the mountain top. Your horse ride lasts about 2.5 hours (round trip) and it will be highlighted by amazing valley views, verdant vegetation and numerous wildlife species such as birds and reptiles. At the end of the trail there is a beautiful waterfall where you will be able to rest for about 30 minutes. You can lie on the grass or take a swim or both! After the break, you will return by the same trail. Back to the stables; enjoy a refreshing beer and Costa Rican-style BBQ , just as a real cowboy would do! Please note : This tour is not suitable for guests without any horseback riding experience or who may not be comfortable around horses. Children riding alone must be at least 6 years old. Maximum weight for riders is 235 pounds. Bring suntan lotion, sunglasses, a camera, a hat/ visor, insect repellent and bathing suit. Wear long pants and comfortable hiking shoes. Signed waiver is required.

Travel through the beautiful countryside to Esquipulas Rainforest , a lovely private nature reserve located 50 minutes away from Quepos. The property is refreshed with crystal-water creeks, and surrounded by giant trees that you can only find in tropical jungles, a land with an amazing number of species of birds and butterflies. Your naturalist guide will lead you through the trails of the rainforest , sharing the guide's vast knowledge of this fragile ecosystem. Enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful place, while you walk on easy trails. Search with your binoculars and discover between branches and leaves the secrets of the wildlife in this amazing forest. Be ready with your senses to hear the songs of the different species of birds and even see them! Be on the lookout for toucans, hummingbirds, and animals like monkeys and other small mammals. After this unforgettable encounter with nature, learn more about Costa Rica followed by an introduction to one of the most important crops in the local economy the coffee. In their private museum, your tour guide will show you the process to convert this fruit in one of the most famous drinks around the world. To get the best of your day in Quepos you will then be served a hearty traditional Costa Rican casado lunch. Please note : Bring suntan lotion, sunglasses, camera, binoculars, a hat/visor, and insect repellent. Wear light clothing, long pants and hiking shoes. Part of the fun of this experience is the interaction with a colorful local nature guide. As an example, the following in an abbreviated biography of one of our participating guides. Rudy Guzman has always had a passion for nature from his days as a boy scout. For over 40 years he has been a licenses nature tour guide traveling through many Costa Rican environments. With the help of 3 brothers, Norberto , Carlos and Cristian Bonilla, they created The Esquipulas Rainforest Project to introduce visitors to Costa Rican natural history and share great tasting coffee.

Costa Rica's warm seas are home to one of the most biologically diverse marine habitats in the world. The best place to observe these magnificent mammals is in the waters off the Osa Peninsula . You will board your boat and head for a place known by National Geographic to be "the most biologically intense area on earth." A place where large groups of dolphins swim in clear blue tropical waters putting on an amazing show! As you cruise around the bay your tour will be enhanced by the informative commentary provided by a trained naturalist guide. You will learn about the biology, behavior and habits of the wildlife you will spot. You will have amazing photo opportunities and if weather permits you will have free time to swim in the serene waters of Punta Encanto (Enchanted Beach). Please note : This tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility or back problems as it involves an optional nature walk over a gravel surface and the boat ride might get bumpy.

Explore the rainforest of the Osa Peninsula on a guided tour through a locally owned small preserve. The Valverde family protected this small area in La Perica on the Osa Peninsula from being developed into farmland like much of the region. After a brief orientation with your knowledgeable English speaking guide, you'll spend 90 minutes walking the trails with your guide looking for wildlife and learning the history of the preserve. Sloths, macaws, and other wildlife are attracted to this peaceful and well-preserved forested area. After your tour of the preserve, you'll enjoy fresh fruit, homemade empanadas, and refreshments. Please note : It's recommended that guests wear sandals or water shoes as this tour involves a wet landing. Additionally, guests should bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses.

Go across Golfo Dulce where life goes at a slow pace and through the humid mangroves with the squeaking sounds of the unique scarlet macaws that mingle in this area, the most common birds. Your kayak guides will be waiting with your kayaks and paddles ready for you to begin this fun experience! Paddle up the mangrove estuary with the rising tide until you can go no further and return with the falling tide, dragging your kayak across the sand spit and into the Golfo Dulce to cruise the shoreline, stopping to swim at the best beach. Pods of bottle-nosed porpoises return daily along this coast on their way to the open Pacific, affording a great chance to view them. Please note : This tour is operated at high tide only. A waiver is required and there is a weight restriction of 235 lbs. Wear light clothes, hat or visor, sunscreen, and sun glasses. Wear your bathing suit under your clothes for those who want to swim at the beach and bring a towel.

Experience the interesting cacao manufacturing process by visiting a traditional cacao plantation at Kobo Farm. Board your minivan for the 25-minute drive to this untouched and mystical area, where you will see the cacao forest, the flowers, and fruit. The history and culture of this tropical crop reaches back to the Mayas. You will learn about the origin of the cacao tree, the history, the first contact with Europeans, and the principal disease called monilia. You will take a guided walk where you will see different species of cacao fruit, take a break in this beautiful spot and taste fresh fruit from the "chocolate tree." You will be shown the various steps of making good chocolate and have the opportunity to taste a wonderful chocolate fondue with fresh fruit and homemade banana bread from the farm in the middle of a tropical garden. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be walking over both paved and dirt paths. It also involves a wet landing so bring your sandals or water shoes as well. Bring your hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and sunglasses. The guide will be waiting for you at the chocolate farm.

A brief transfer from Jimenez leads to one of the most stunning and vibrant retreats in the vicinity - Botánika Osa Peninsula, a part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, nestled in the untouched tropical beauty of Costa Rica's southwest coast. The rugged and secluded Osa region offers a glimpse into Costa Rica's history while providing an escape from the ordinary. This resort seamlessly blends with nature, offering top-tier amenities and the exceptional service Hilton is known for. Revel in a natural lagoon-style pool and prioritize wellness while embracing the distinctiveness of this breathtaking locale. Food and drinks are available for purchase with a selection of fresh fruit juices, local artisanal brews, and Costa Rican-inspired exotic cocktails available to order. Or indulge in a contemporary bar menu featuring tapas, ceviche, Peruvian-style "tiraditos," crisp salads, and the town's finest burgers, all within the backdrop of the expansive lagoon-style pool, creating an open and refreshing atmosphere. Please note : You will be offered a complimentary non-alcoholic welcome drink upon arrival at the resort, there will be additional drinks and snacks available for purchase. Please note, the Cahui Beach club facilities are not included. We recommend you wear beach attire, bring a towel, extra change of clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. This port involves a wet landing, so please bring your sandals or water shoes.