This seven-night trip from Gap Adventures (tel. 888/800-4100; www.gapadventures.com) is geared toward adventurous travelers between the ages of 17-39. The guided Costa Rica vacation includes light walking and hiking but is suitable for most fitness levels. Airfare isn't included in this trip, which is capped at 15 people; there's a CEO (chief experience officer) on hand to guide everyone.
Traveling to Costa Rica in July coincides with the rainy season, which means you'll likely encounter some afternoon thunderstorms. The good thing about this land-only package is that it costs the same year-round; if you prefer, you can travel in the fall when the weather has cooled off a little bit.
Spend your first night in San José, then spend two in La Fortuna, where you can hike around the base of the famed Arenal Volcano. Go bird-watching, or opt for a horseback ride. You can also rent a mountain bike and explore.
From La Fortuna, you'll travel south to Montezuma, where lounging on the beach awaits you during your three-night stay here. Whether you choose to scuba dive, surf, or hike through Cabo Blanco nature reserve, Costa Rica is ideal for adventurers. In San José for your last night, you can take it easy and explore on your own. You can also join a city tour, visit a butterfly farm, or see Poas volcano.
Many of these activities are things you can decide upon once you arrive; you don't have to book everything ahead of time. Gap Adventures' CEO will help travelers decide and make arrangements. And rather than worrying about renting a car, this trip includes transportation (local bus, ferry, and taxi).
The accommodations are simple hotels; some of them may be shared with multiple people. However, if you select the "my own room" option (add $179 per person), you'll have your own room for all seven nights of the trip. GAP Adventures practices sustainable tourism is committed to supporting local communities. Whenever possible, GAP will contract with locally-owned hotels that hire people who live there; this ensures that the money stays in the community. So you can be happy that your tourism dollars will truly make a difference.
Airfare is not included, but a quick Kayak search for departures from Miami to San José on July 16 (the next available departure for this trip) starts from $308 round-trip, Newark from $513, and Chicago from $515.
What the Quoted Price Gets You: Spend two days each in La Fortuna and in San José, and three in Montezuma; simple accommodations; a guide throughout; and ground transportation in between destinations.
What Else You'll Have to Pay: Round-trip airfare; meals (budget around $215-$280 depending on your preferences); and additional activities, which range from $15 for a bike rental for the day) to $90 for a full-day rafting trip.
Book By: As soon as possible to ensure availability
When: July 16, Aug. 13, 27; Sept. 24; Oct. 8, 22; Nov. 5, 19; Dec. 3, 17, 31; and monthly departures (at least) throughout 2012
All prices are per person and, if lodging is a component of the package, based upon two people traveling together (unless otherwise noted). The prices listed are general starting rates; see "What Else You'll Have to Pay" for details about associated taxes and fees. Base-prices, taxes, and fees can vary based on point of departure and time of travel. Blackout dates may apply. Trip add-ons like sightseeing tours and meal plans may also increase the price. Check with the tour operator for additional gateways and any single supplements, which is the extra cost that a solo traveler would pay to book the deal.