COSTA RICA | AUGUST 29th - SEPTEMBER 7th, 2025
TRIP oVERVIEW
- Photograph iconic Costa Rican wildlife
- Explore the canopy among zip lines and bridges
- White water rafting
- Explore the country from the beaches to the cloud forests
Group Size | 6 People
Activity Level | Moderate
Days | 10 days/9 nights
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Costa Rica Adventure with Running Wild Expeditions
An Unforgettable 10-Day Exploration of Wildlife and Landscapes
Day 1: Arrival and Night Hike
- Arrive in Costa Rica and settle into Cariari Bed & Breakfast.
- Enjoy dinner at Jardin de Lourdes before embarking on an exhilarating night hike.
- Photograph frogs and other nocturnal wildlife as you explore the vibrant rainforest at night.
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Day 2: Journey to Quepos with Scenic Wildlife Stops
- After breakfast, travel to Quepos with stops along the way:
- Visit the Rio Tarcoles Bridge to observe crocodiles.
- Stop at Carrara National Park’s edge to see vibrant scarlet macaws.
- Lunch at Soda Dianys, a local gem.
- Check into the luxurious Villa Manakin, perched above the rainforest canopy. Relax or visit the beach for tide pool exploration.
- Take a boat safari through mangroves during sunset, discovering unique coastal wildlife.
- End the day with dinner at El Avion, a restaurant with a fascinating history.
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Day 3: Manuel Antonio National Park
- Start early with a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park, renowned for its biodiversity.
- Spot and photograph sloths, monkeys, lizards, and caiman while learning about tropical ecosystems.
- Enjoy lunch at Baldi’s Fresh Restaurant, just outside the park.
- Choose to spend the afternoon exploring the park, relaxing at the beach, or unwinding at the villa.
- Dinner at Rico Tico Jungle Grill, offering local cuisine with stunning views.
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Day 4: Travel to Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Depart for Monteverde, stopping along the way to revisit crocodiles and macaws.
- Learn about Costa Rica’s sustainability initiatives while passing wind turbines and solar farms.
- Lunch at Puntarenas’ famous food trucks.
- Check into The Treetop House, a cozy accommodation immersed in nature.
- Visit Santuario Ecologico Monteverde to learn about shade-grown coffee and set insect traps for evening exploration.
- Discuss insect biodiversity while photographing and interacting with specimens post-dinner.
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Day 5: Bird Banding and Canopy Adventures
- Join researchers at the Monteverde Institute to assist with mist-netting and banding birds. Learn about avian ecology and the effects of climate change.
- Snack at the historic Ice Cream and Cheese Factory, rooted in Quaker traditions.
- Explore Selvatura Park with options for zip-lining, suspension bridges, and visits to wildlife sanctuaries.
- Return to The Treetop House before enjoying dinner at Monteverde Brewing Company. End the night with an optional visit to Bar Amigos for dancing and local culture.
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Day 6: Birdwatching and La Fortuna
- Begin with an early birdwatching session to spot species like quetzals, motmots, or toucans, depending on the season.
- After breakfast, travel to La Fortuna with a scenic lunch stop in town.
- Visit La Fortuna Falls for swimming and jungle exploration.
- Stay at Hotel El Silencio del Campo and dine at Snappers House.
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Day 7: Rafting and Local Culture
- Start the day with an adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting experience tailored to the group’s preferences.
- Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch provided by the rafting team.
- Visit a local farm to learn about the production of Cacique Guaro, Costa Rica’s signature liquor.
- Dinner at Lava Rock Cafe, featuring vibrant local flavors.
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Day 8: Rio Celeste’s Natural Wonders
- Explore Rio Celeste, a surreal blue volcanic river surrounded by lush wildlife and scenic swimming spots.
- Stay at Rio Celeste Hideaway, with optional evening tours for nocturnal wildlife encounters.
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Day 9: Tapir Valley and Return to San Jose
- Morning excursion to Tapir Valley to learn about these gentle giants and conservation efforts from local biologists.
- Travel back to San Jose, with stops for shopping and sightseeing at the Municipal Craft Market.
- End the day with a farewell dinner at Restaurante Nuestra Tierra, sharing memories of the journey.
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Day 10: Departure
- Depart Costa Rica with new photography skills and unforgettable experiences.
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What is included:
All in-country transportation including to and from the airport
All in-country accommodation
Road snacks
In-country planned tours and excursions
Professional wildlife guides/photographers
Photography lessons
Lots of fun and good memories
Park entrance fees
Opening dinner
What is not included:
International airfare to and from the International Airport
Baggage fees
Unplanned or extra excursions
Tips and gratuities
Immunizations or medications
Alcohol and most meals
Additional information:
Participants should carry their own health and travel insurance.
Deposits are non-refundable as they are used to pre-book all reservations and accommodation, unless the trip is canceled by us, in which case, deposits will be returned.
Liability waivers and supporting documentation must be submitted with final payment. Papers will be issued upon deposit or earlier upon request via email.
*Costa Rica is open for travel to anyone, regardless of COVID vaccination status. However, we recommend having both Covid-19 vaccine doses and the booster before participating in international travel.
Visa information: Check with the US Embassy for regular updates regarding travel to Costa Rica.
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$2,900 per person.
$500.00 deposit due upon registration. Deposit price goes towards full trip cost and holds your spot.
MEET YOUR GUIDES
Michael Ryan Clark is an award winning filmmaker and photographer who has dedicated his life to creating impact driven conservation media. Documenting conservation and adventure stories has taken Michael across 6 continents and dozens of countries. Michael has contributed photos and video to National Geographic, accepted awards at the United Nations, and worked with companies such as Disney, CBS, PBS Nature, Patagonia, and has partnered with various non-profits. Perhaps most impressively, he has also won the high score for Pac-man in an arcade in New Hampshire. With a teaching degree from Boston University, Michael uses Running Wild Expeditions to perfectly synchronize his love for documenting wildlife and his passion for education.
Justin Grubb is an award winning wildlife photographer and conservationist with years of experience capturing the beauty and complexity of nature through his lens. His passion for wildlife has taken him to some of the most remote locations around the world, where he has developed a deep understanding of the behaviors and habitats of diverse species.
Justin’s expertise in wildlife photography is complemented by his strong background in environmental science, which allows him to guide travelers not just in taking stunning photos, but in understanding the ecological importance of the subjects they capture. His work has been featured in numerous publications including National Geographic, BBC, and more.
Conservation IMpact
We only hire local tour operators and guides that have strong codes of ethics surrounding their conservation footprint and proximity to animals when photographing them. We are visiting locally owned and managed reserves and wildlife areas, working with permitted researchers, and will discuss photography ethics extensively.
EXPEDITION DEPOSIT
Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure by placing a deposit at your earliest convenience. Our trips are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t miss the chance to join us! If you have any questions or prefer an alternative payment method, feel free to reach out—we’d be happy to help. We’re truly honored by your interest in traveling with us and can’t wait to share this remarkable corner of the world with you.
