Starting price reflects land-only tour cost. Great Value: see our Tour Cost page for pricing that Includes International Airfare.
This journey is specially designed for a small group of 14 to 18 Smithsonian travelers and offers outstanding travel value.
Throughout this tour, travel in the company of an exceptional Smithsonian Study Leader. Kristofer Helgen is a Research Zoologist and Curator of Mammals at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Kris will lead the February 16, 2012 departure. James R. Karr is Professor Emeritus of Aquatic Sciences and Biology, and formerly the Director of the Institute for Environmental Studies at the University of Washington. Read an interview with Study Leader James Karr. James will lead the March 2012 departure. David Clapp is the former Director of the Massachusetts Audubon Society’s South Shore Sanctuaries. He will lead the December 2012 departure. Patty Hostiuck is popular and respected naturalist who began her career in Alaska as a ranger. Since then she has criss-crossed the state for the past 19 years, working as a freelance naturalist and lecturer on numerous expedition ships. Patty will lead the January 2013 and March 2013 departures. The other departures will be led by comparable experts.
Learn about Costa Rica's volcanoes during an excursion to Poas Volcano and night viewing of Arenal Volcano.
Enjoy the natural wonders of Monteverde Cloud Forest as you experience the forest from the ground as well as high up in the canopy along the Hanging Bridges Sky Walk. Other highlights here include the stunning Butterfly Garden and Hummingbird Gallery.
Learn about Costa Rica's economy, educational system, and crafts during excursions to the Doka Coffee Estate, an elementary school, and a traditional mask-maker's studio.
Enjoy active adventures such as a float trip on the Tempisque River in Palo Verde National Park and a tamale cooking class in Guanacaste, as well as opportunities for optional activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, and swimming.
Spend three nights at a secluded Pacific beach resort and stays in eco-friendly hotels suited to the natural environment.
