Exploring Costa Rica's Natural Beauty

Costa Rica isn't just a paradise for nature lovers; it's also a top choice for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking a Central American adventure. Join us to explore this LGBTQ+-friendly country, nestled amid lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Costa Rica boasts incredible biodiversity and leads in conservation efforts. This journey takes you from an active volcano's base to misty highlands and the stunning Pacific coast.

Connect with the local LGBTQ+ community and dive into local culture. Enjoy unique experiences, including talks from National Geographic-supported Monteverde Institute researchers and tortilla-making with local families.

This tour also features thrilling forest hikes where you can spot Costa Rica's unique creatures, from vibrant blue morpho butterflies to lively howler monkeys. Immerse yourself in the Pura Vida spirit while experiencing the natural wonders surrounded by queer community. 

• Highlight Moment: Tortilla Making and Home Dinner, La Fortuna
  
• Highlight Moment: Monteverde Institute Lecture, Monteverde
  
• Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative Tour, Sarapiquí
  
• Arrival transfer
  
• Guided nature walk in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
  
• Guided excursion to Manuel Antonio National Park
  
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  
• EveryQueer Welcome Dinner
  
• 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinner
  

• International Flights 
• Spending Money for things like souvenirs 
• Cash for tips 
• Some meals
• Travel Insurance *It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD we also strongly recommend purchasing an all-inclusive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance as well. 

Itinerary

Day 1: SAN JOSÉ

You're welcome to arrive at your convenience, and we've got your arrival transfer covered. If you arrive with some spare time, consider exploring the city. You can check out museums, shop around, or visit the vibrant main plaza in the city center.

The plaza offers fantastic people-watching opportunities. You might catch a mime, juggler, marimba band, magician, or storyteller entertaining the crowd, with contributions collected when the hat is passed around. Artisan booths are a common sight, creating a lively arts and crafts fair ambiance.

Costa Rica boasts one of the world's most diverse ecosystems, making it a dream destination for nature enthusiasts. This diversity also means plenty of rain year-round, nurturing lush green rainforests and cloud forests teeming with flora and fauna. Be sure to pack for potential wet weather and varying temperatures.

To kick off your journey, there's an inclusive EveryQueer welcome dinner where you can meet the EQ staff and connect with fellow travelers. 

Day 2: SAN JOSÉ/LA FORTUNA

Start your day in Costa Rica's capital city with breakfast before embarking on an insightful tour of a coffee cooperative. Here, you'll have the opportunity to meet local farmers and get up close to shade-grown coffee plants. Gain a deep understanding of the coffee production process, from bean to cup. After this enlightening experience, savor a typical Costa Rican lunch, complemented by a fragrant cup of coffee.

Following lunch, hop on a private vehicle for a picturesque 3-hour journey to the charming town of La Fortuna, nestled at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano.

One of the day's highlights is a visit to a local home where you'll learn the art of crafting traditional Costa Rican tortillas. Under the guidance of your hospitable hosts, grind the corn, shape the "masa" (dough) into balls, flatten them into circles, and cook them over a wood-burning stove. While you cook, sip on refreshing tropical fruit juice, bond with the family, and delve into the rich history of tortilla making. As the evening unfolds, relish a delectable "casado," a typical Costa Rican dish featuring black beans, plantains, and, of course, your very own hand-made tortillas.

Please note that breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on this day.

Don't miss this chance to discover the origins of your morning coffee and immerse yourself in Costa Rican culinary traditions. 

Day 3: La Fortuna

Enjoy a day at your leisure, exploring La Fortuna and its captivating surroundings. In 1968, the Arenal Volcano erupted, ending centuries of dormancy and transforming this once serene agricultural town into a hub for adventurous travelers.

Take your pick from an array of thrilling optional activities: glide across the serene waters of Lake Arenal on a stand-up paddleboarding adventure, experience the rush of rappelling down a cascading waterfall on a canyoning excursion, unwind amidst the natural warmth of an outdoor spa set against the backdrop of the imposing Arenal Volcano, embark on a boat tour of the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, recognized as one of the world's most significant wetlands, and explore more exciting options.

This day is yours to tailor to your preferences and create unforgettable memories in this dynamic Costa Rican destination.

Day 4: LA FORTUNA/MONTEVERDE

Journey from La Fortuna to the lush cloud forests of Monteverde, a haven for nature enthusiasts. This afternoon, you have the choice to explore Monteverde's awe-inspiring wilderness through an exhilarating zip-lining adventure. Known as the birthplace of the canopy tour, you'll soar above the treetops or race through misty foliage at thrilling speeds.

The town of Monteverde, while fairly small, offers shopping and some excellent dining options. However, most upgraded accommodations are situated outside the main town center, strategically placed to maximize the area's natural beauty and stunning landscapes. Taxis are readily available for convenient transportation to and from town, typically costing around $10 USD each way.

Accommodations here tend to be more modest, with fewer amenities. It's important to note that Monteverde's cloud forest is situated at a higher elevation, providing a cooler but humid climate. This is why air conditioning is not commonly found in hotels in this region. Additionally, due to the prevailing humidity, rooms may feel damp, which is a natural consequence of the climate.

As you plan your time in Monteverde, consider optional activities such as Monteverde Horseback Riding and more exciting ziplining adventures to make the most of your visit to this enchanting cloud forest destination. 

Day 5: MONTEVERDE

Embark on an enchanting hike through Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, surrounded by towering ferns and vibrant orchids. Keep an eye out for the sacred quetzal, a bird revered in Maya and Aztec cultures. Later, visit the Monteverde Institute, supported by National Geographic, and learn about their conservation projects, including successful reforestation efforts.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Guided Tour

Don your poncho and boots for an adventure in the mist-shrouded cloud forest. Trek along 12 kilometers (7 miles) of trails, watching for wildlife and ascending the observation tower for breathtaking views. Listen for the bellbird's haunting call and keep an eye out for the brilliant quetzal. Your park fees support forest preservation and local schools.

Monteverde Institute Lecture

Explore the Monteverde Institute, a hub for National Geographic-funded research on the Monteverde Cloud Forest canopy. Attend a lecture led by a researcher covering various National Geographic-sponsored projects, including new discoveries, insect and bird studies, and tropical reforestation.

In your free time, consider optional activities like Monteverde Horseback Riding or Ziplining Monteverde to make the most of your time in this remarkable cloud forest.

Day 6: MONTEVERDE/MANUEL ANTONIO

Leaving the enchanting cloud forest behind, make your way to the expansive Pacific coast of Costa Rica and check in at your hotel in the charming seaside village of Manuel Antonio. Embrace the relaxed vibes of the area, and if you're up for it, consider some leisurely activities like surfing or sailing. Alternatively, simply kick back and unwind on the sun-soaked beach.

Keep in mind that the hotels in Manuel Antonio aren't right on the beach; they're scattered along the cliffside road, offering stunning views of the coastline and lush jungle. No worries, though! The beach, National Park, markets, shops, and restaurants are all easily accessible via frequent public buses (safe and convenient) or taxis. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring this coastal gem at your own pace. 

Day 7: MANUEL ANTONIO

Explore the lush beauty and white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, a small yet stunning Costa Rican gem teeming with wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. Stroll through dense forests, soak in tidal pools, and savor scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Take a dip, try surfing, or enjoy a sailing excursion. With four pristine beaches, it's a haven for beach lovers and hikers. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that thrives here. Manuel Antonio offers relaxation and adventure in a picturesque coastal paradise. 

Day 8: MANUEL ANTONIO/SAN JOSÉ

Join us for a closing dinner where we'll gather to reflect, snap a few more pictures, and get ready to part ways after our days of bonding and adventure. We'll be returning to San José for this final get-together at a beloved local restaurant.

Day 9: SAN JOSÉ

It's departure day, and you're free to leave at your own pace whenever you're ready. Feel free to enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before you head out. And if you want to keep the adventure going, just chat with your tour leader they can lend a hand with extending your journey in Costa Rica.

Embrace the adventure you’ve always dreamed of without straining your finances. Our flexible payment plan lets you spread the cost of your unforgettable getaway over time, ensuring your dream vacation becomes a reality.

Secure Your Spot Today with a $500 Deposit

A small deposit of $500 secures your spot on your desired itinerary, allowing you to start planning your unforgettable adventure.

Spread the Remaining Balance with Easy Payments

Payment Dates: 

Today – $500 Deposit 

November 8, 2024 – $2000

Final Payment Due March 3, 2025