manual english 2012 / 2013

Transcription

MANUAL ENGLISH
2012 / 2013
PANAMA
COSTA RICA
NICARAGUA
GUATEMALA
MEXICO
CUBA
DOMINICAN
REPUBLIC
Index
Contact Details of the Latincoming Partners
Gapa Travel
ARA Tours
ORO Travel
Expedición Panamundo
Tierra Maya Tours
Cuba Real Tours
DomRep Tours
Latincoming Central Office
Latincoming Europe
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
5
5
Latincoming Roundtrips
With English-speaking guide
Central American Highlights Main Program Nicaragua – Costa Rica
Highlights Panama
Highlights Costa Rica
Highlights Nicaragua
Highlights Guatemala
Highlights Yucatán (private only)
Cuba Tradicional
Highlights Dominican Republic
Roundtrip Mundo Verde
Roundtrip Mundo Verde Combination Costa Rica - Nicaragua
Roundtrip Mundo Verde Combination Costa Rica - Panama
Hidden Secrets of Central America (private only)
Low Budget Trip Through Central America (English guided only in Tortuguero)
6
13
17
21
25
30
33
39
44
50
56
61
67
Hiking Tour Panama
Hiking Tour Costa Rica
Hiking Tour Nicaragua
Hiking Tour Combination Costa Rica - Nicaragua
Hiking Tour Mexico
72
75
78
82
88
FlexiVoucher Combination Costa Rica – Nicaragua
FlexiVoucher Combination Costa Rica – Panama
FlexiVoucher Combination Panama – Costa Rica – Nicaragua
90
96
102
Others
Terms and Conditions
108
2
Contact Details of the Latincoming Partners
GAPA TRAVEL
André Goatham
Address:
Tel.:
Fax:
E-mail:
Website:
Emergency:
ARA TOURS
Daniel Küng
Representative:
Address:
Visitors: Edificio Comercial PH Hi Tech Plaza, Calle 50 y Calle 53, Obarrio
P.O. Box: Apartado 0831-00048, Estafeta de Paitilla
Panama City
Panama - Centroamérica
00507 215 33 62
00507 215 33 62
[email protected]
www.gapatravel.com
André Goatham:
Ronald Castillo:
(00507) 6674 1123
(00507) 6675 9984
Tel.:
Fax:
E-mail:
Website:
Sandra Haun
Visitors: Del Colegio de Médicos 100 metros al este y 150 metros al Sur, frente a la
Universidad de La Salle, Sabana Sur
P.O. Box: Apdo. 799, 1007 San José
San José
Costa Rica - Centroamérica
00506 2232 0400
00506 2232 0363
[email protected]
www.aratours.com
Emergency:
Operations:
ORO TRAVEL
Pascal Picot
Representative:
Address:
(00506) 8893 3863
Tel.:
Fax:
E-mail:
Website:
Rossana Garcia
Calle Corral #205
Granada
Nicaragua - Centroamérica
00505 2552 4568
00505 2552 6512
[email protected]
www.orotravel.com
Emergency:
00505 8914 5002
EXPEDICION PANAMUNDO
Roger Brenner
Address:
6ª Avenida ―A‖ 14-75, Zona 9
Guatemala City
Guatemala - Centroamérica
Tel.:
00502 2331 7588, 00502 2331 7646
Fax:
00502 2334 6488
E-Mail:
[email protected]
Emergency E-Mail:
Emergency:
[email protected]
Roger Brenner:
(00502) 5305 0050
Luby de Gil:
(00502) 5300 6512
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Mónica Ruiz:
Blanca Contreras:
(00502) 5202 9385
(00502) 5303 8080
TIERRA MAYA TOURS
Hanspeter Walliser
Address:
5ta Av. Norte entre calle 4 y 6
77710 Playa del Carmen, Q. Roo
Mexico
Tel.:
0052 984 873 13 85
Fax:
0052 984 873 13 86
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.tierramayatours.com
Emergency:
Martin Muenger (client assistance):
Hanspeter Walliser:
(0052) 984 87 62 947
(0052) 984 87 62 600
Ex Europe:
To call from a landline dial a „1― after the country code 0052. To call from a mobile
phone dial the number as it is.
Ex Mexico (outside of Playa del Carmen):
Instead of the country code 0052 dial „045― and then the number.
Ex Playa del Carmen:
Instead of the country code 0052 dial „044― and then the number.
CUBA REAL TOURS
Bernd Herrmann
Address:
Calle Paseo 606 e/ 25 y 27
Vedado, Plaza de la Revolucion
CP 10400
Ciudad Habana - Cuba
Tel.:
0053 7 834 42 51
Fax:
0053 7 834 42 53
Service offices Europe: Switzerland 0041 44 500 10 60, Germany 0049 180 100 327 23 000,
United Kingdom 0044 (0) 1753 630204
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.cubarealtours.com
Emergency:
Emergency Phone:
Christoph Blaha:
Emilio Garcia:
(0053) 5 2 799 840
(0053) 5 2 805 760
(0053) 5 2 640 371
DOMREP TOURS
Lisa Förster
Address:
Calle Padre Billini # 405, casi esquina Espaillat
Zona Colonial
Santo Domingo – Dominican Republic
Tel./Fax:
001 809 686 0278
Service offices Europe: Switzerland 0041 44 5004300, Germany 0049 1803 100 328
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.domreptours.com
Emergency:
(001) 829 367 7421
Lisa Förster (private):
(001) 829 849 7065
4
LATINCOMING CENTRAL OFFICE
Sales Department Latincoming
Address:
Apdo 799
1007 San José
Costa Rica - Centroamérica
Tel.:
00506 2231 5084
Fax:
00506 2232 0363
E-Mail:
[email protected] / [email protected]
Website:
www.latincoming.com
LATINCOMING EUROPE
Katrin Schmitz
Address:
Cologne, Germany
Tel.:
0049 221 759 77 15
E-mail:
[email protected]
Office hours:
Tuesday - Friday 09:00 – 13:00h CET
5
Latincoming Roundtrips
with English-speaking tour guide
CENTRAL AMERICAN HIGHLIGHTS
Basic Program Nicaragua – Costa Rica
15 Days / 14 Nights
With English-speaking tour guide
Operation guaranteed with a minimum of 2 Pax
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival Managua – Hotel Transfer
Arrival at Managua International Airport and shuttle bus to your hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel Camino Real**** or similar
Managua City Tour – León Viejo – Juan Venado Reserve – Las Peñitas – León
After breakfast we will drive to ―Loma de Tiscapa‖, a small volcanic hill where Somoza‘s
presidential house was strategically situated. Today Sandino‘s black metal silhouette rules
over the hill and you can enjoy excellent views on old and new Managua from here.
Afterwards we will drive along Lake Managua towards the ruins of ―León Viejo‖, first capital
of Nicaragua which succumbed to the violent eruption of Momotombo volcano and a
destructive earthquake. Here you will have the chance to learn about interesting colonial
time episodes of this UNESCO site and understand why the first Spanish conquistadors
settled Leon Viejo in this ferocious land.
Then we will drive to the Pacific coast and will embark for a boat tour into the Reserve of
Juan Venado, famous for its mangroves and wildlife. At Las Peñitas, on the way back to the
cultural town Leon, we will admire a beautiful sunset (if the weather permits).
Inbegriffene Mahlzeiten:
Übernachtung:
Day 3,
Tuesday
Breakfast
Hotel Austria*** or similar
León City Tour – Cerro Negro Volcano (OPTIONAL) – León
This morning, we will begin with the visit of the old looking Cathedral ―La Asuncion‖,
considered the largest in Central America and sheltering the remains of Nicaragua‘s
greatest poet ―Ruben Dario‖. We will also ascend to the roof of the temple to enjoy
spectacular views of the city. Then we will visit the archive-museum house of Ruben Dario
as well as the art museum of Ortiz-Gurdian Foundation which contains an impressive
collection of European and Latin American art. As we walk through the city we still can see
some of the old revolutionaries murals painted during the civil war.
In the afternoon you have the opportunity to travel 25 kilometers east from Leon to the black
Volcano Cerro Negro, regarded as the youngest volcano in Central America and formed in
1850 (OPTIONAL TOUR), driving by unique rural sceneries areas where traditional crops as
cassava, sugar cane, peanuts, corn, and others are grown. This fascinating hiking trail will
take us to the summit of this ―black hill‖ and enjoy impressive view over the ―Maribios
volcanic chain‖, nicely constituted by the active cones of San Cristobal and Telica. After
descending on the sandy slopes of the volcano we drive back to León.
Note: The excursion to the Volcano Cerro Negro can be booked while in León. The price
6
is USD 40.,- per person and has to be paid to the guide directly. Minimum 2 people.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Wednesday
Breakfast
León – San Jacinto Hot Springs – Estelí: cigar factory – Selva Negra
After breakfast we will drive to San Jacinto Hot Springs, a unique phenomenon of this
volcanic region where internal vents eject hot gasses, water and mud. Afterwards we will
drive from the volcanic fertile soils of the Nicaraguan pacific basin to the north central region
of Estelí, known for its top quality cigars. As we drive we will have the chance to pass by
tobacco fields and then visit one of the many cigar factories in this area. Here we will learn
about the painstaking process of selecting the best tobacco leaves, drying, rolling and
packing.
Then we will drive back to the highlands of Matagalpa, also known as the coffee hub. After
taking our rooms at Selva Negra Lodge, we will go for a nature walk into the primary tropical
forest to explore the lush vegetation and try to discover the elusive birdlife of the region.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Thursday
Selva Negra – Chocolate factory – Masaya Volcano National Park – “Verbenas” –
Granada
This morning after breakfast we will drive through the ―Selva Negra‖ farm to learn very
important facts about the sustainability of the farm, coffee and cheese production, cattle and
pig raising, social projects, environmental protection and treatment of animal waste.
After this interesting experience, we will drive to Matagalpa and visit a small chocolate
factory producing 100% Nicaraguan chocolate. Here you will learn about the history of the
cocoa bean, varieties, roasting and grinding and mixing.
Then we will drive from the highlands on the Pan-American Highway descending on the
pacific lowlands to reach our next destination, Masaya‘s Volcano National Park. This is a
great opportunity to discover one of the most impressive active volcanoes in the ―Pacific
Ring of Fire‖. Here you will have the chance to observe ancient lava flows, outstanding
landscapes, lava incandescence, bat caves, an absolutely wonderful experience.
In the dark we will drive to town Masaya and enjoy a folkloric event while we take our typical
dinner.
After this we will then drive into the charming colonial city of Granada.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Friday
Breakfast
Selva Negra Lodge** or similar
Breakfast, dinner
Hotel Patio del Malinche*** or similar
Granada City Tour – San Juan de Oriente – Catarina – Masaya market – Boat Trip Las
Isletas – Granada
After breakfast we will begin a city tour of the oldest colonial settlement in the Americas. We
will visit the historical building of Convent San Francisco housing the local museum of
Granada, displaying the most important pre-Hispanic totem collection in Nicaragua. We will
also visit the historical center of the city where we can observe the Bishop Palace,
Cathedral, Palace of Culture, City Hall and other remarkable monuments.
Then we will drive to the ―Pueblos Blancos‖, where we will visit the colorful town of San
Juan de Oriente, renowned by its high quality pottery.
Afterwards we will drive to a view point where we can enjoy breathtaking views of ―Lake
Apoyo‖, known as the largest and deepest volcanic Crater Lake in the country.
We will then head to Masaya‘s market where you can find a wide variety of fine quality
handmade products such as hammocks, shoes, wallets, jewelry, clothes, etc…
Before we reach our hotel we will embark on a natural excursion on the Lake Nicaragua - a
boat tour along some of the volcanic islands, generally known as ―Las Isletas‖.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Breakfast
7
Day 7,
Saturday
Granada – San Jorge – Charco Verde – Playa Santo Domingo
After breakfast we will drive south on the Pan-American highway, passing by several
sugarcane and rice fields, as well as plantations of bananas, papayas, water melons and
passion fruits. We then reach the small town of San Jorge where we take the ferry on the
Lake Nicaragua to the volcanic island of Ometepe. Reaching Moyogalpa, one of the two
main towns of the Island, we drive around the active volcano of Concepcion to visit ―Charco
Verde‖, known for its dark green lake, lush surrounding vegetation, birdlife and howler
monkeys.
Then we continue on to Playa Santo Domingo where you can relax at the end of the day
with a refreshing dive into the lake.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Sunday
Breakfast
Hotel Villa Paraíso **(*) or similar
Ometepe Island – Moyogalpa – San Jorge – Peñas Blancas / Costa Rica – La Fortuna
After breakfast, we leave the hotel and drive back to Moyogalpa to take the ferry to San
Jorge. Back on the mainland, you head southward to Peñas Blancas, border town to Costa
Rica. After the usual immigration formalities your dirver will bring you to La Fortuna, located
at the foot of the active and impressive Arenal Volcano.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 9,
Monday
Breakfast
Hotel Mountain Paradise **** or similar
Relaxing day in your hotel - Hotsprings - Arenal Volcano
Today you have the opportunity to relax at the swimming pool of this nice hotel, before
getting to know the highlights of Costa Rica. In La Fortuna you can rent bikes or horses on
your own, discover a beautiful waterfall or decide for one of the other tours offered by the
hotel. Your Nicaraguan tour guide will leave you in the morning; in the afternoon you will
meet the other participants and your new tour guide for the part in Costa Rica.
In the late afternoon we will visit Ecotermales La Fortuna (or if fully booked Baldí Thermals)
and enjoy the hot water surrounded by pure nature. The hot springs also offer a bar, and
dinner will be served in the restaurant. Return to the hotel and overnight.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 10,
Tuesday
Breakfast, dinner
La Fortuna – Lava Field Hike – La Quinta de Sarapiquí – Pineapple Plantation – Plant
A Tree
Today you will enjoy allot of activities. We start with a short drive to Arenal Volcano National
Park, from where we start a nice 1½ hour walk. The first part will lead over an ash trail and
we later reach an old lava flow, which we will cross on a rocky path. From here you can not
only see the impressive power of a volcano, but also enjoy a beautiful view over the Lake
Arenal and the surrounding soft hills. We continue our journey via Muelle and Aguas Zarcas
and drive along huge fruit plantations. Oranges, coconut, yucca, macadamia nuts, papaya
and pineapple are mainly cultivated here. We then reach La Quinta de Sarapiquí Lodge, a
small, cozy and clean country hotel near Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí. They practice an
ecological and sustainable way of tourism, and you will soon see, what that means.
Then we drive to one of the huge pineapple plantations of this area. One of the local
professionals will then explain all the details about the history of pineapple and about the
secrets of production. You will first visit the field and the factory, where the fruits are washed
and packed. We finish our visit with a quick stop at a plantation, where pineapple is grown
as an ornamental plant. You will then have the opportunity to plant a tree. Up from 6
persons, there will be a small cultural event on your schedule.
Note: Should the hotel be fully booked in isolated cases, we are not able to guarantee the
optional activity of planting a tree at La Quinta de Sarapiquí.
Included meals:
Breakfast
8
Accommodation:
Day 11,
Wednesday
Hotel La Quinta de Sarapiquí ***, Superior, or similar
Visit of the Station for Tropical Studies – Small Rainforest Hike - Chocolate Tour
This morning around 9am you will arrive at the station for tropical studies in Sarapiquí. Here
a small hike will take place across the safe hiking trails. You may observe the forest and our
local guide will explain and show us the impacts that can be detected in relation to climate
changes. A small interactive discussion about the balance in the tropical forests will be the
end of today‘s visit.
After midday we continue our journey to the Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve, where you first
will enjoy a short walk through the lush vegetation. With a bit of luck, you will be able to see
some mammals here, mainly monkeys, sloths, coatis and also allot of different species of
birds. After that experience you will learn everything about chocolate. The cacao tree
originally comes from South and Central America. A local guide will explain the whole
process from the cacao bean to delicious chocolate, which you of course will be able to
taste at the end. The tour guide might change the order of today‘s itinerary due to weather
conditions or any other operational reason.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 12,
Thursday
Breakfast
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí – Guápiles – Tortuguero
After a quick coffee, we continue our journey via Horquetas to Guápiles, where we reach
the main road connecting San José with Limón. Here, you will enjoy a typical Costarican
breakfast, before we continue to the area of La Pavona or Caño Blanco. This area is
important for banana production and you will see huge plantations here. Your guide will tell
you about advantages and disadvantages of the yellow fruit. Near Matina we will then
continue by boat and you will cruise on rivers and channels along the beautiful nature to
Tortuguero. Check-in at a comfortable lodge and late lunch.
The afternoon is at your leisure to explore the surroundings of this beautiful place; eg. for an
optional visit to the Tortuguero Village and the Turtle Conservation Center (entrance fee
aprox. USD 2,- per person, not included). It is important to point out, that the local people
used to earn their incoming with killing the sea turtles and sell meat and eggs to the markets
in San José. Thanks to many years of education and voluntary efforts of nature activists,
almost the whole population lives from tourism and protect nature. Return to the lodge.
After dinner and from July to September, you have the possibility to book an optional night
tour to the beach of Tortuguero, where the endangered Green Sea Turtles lay their eggs
into the sand (not included, costs approx. USD 30,- per person).
Info 1: Together with our group, there are also other participants on the Tortuguero Tour days 12, 13
and 14. Even on private operation basis, the transfer to Tortuguero is on seat-in basis. This can’t be
changed.
Info 2: The luggage is limited to 12 kg per person. We recommend to pack the things you
need for days 15 to 17 into a smaller bag and send the main luggage with the driver to San
José. It will be stored in your hotel in San José for you.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 13,
Friday
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Mawamba Lodge ***, Standard, or similar
Tortuguero National Park
Today during early morning hours as well as later the day, we will discover the canals of
Tortuguero on two included boat trips. If you are lucky, you will be able to observe
crocodiles, monkeys, turtles, sloths, bats, iguanas and of course allot birds. After lunch back
at the lodge, we will again enjoy nature, this time on a walk through the rainforest. Thanks to
many years of education and voluntary efforts of nature activists, almost the whole
population of Tortuguero lives from tourism and protect nature. Return to the lodge. Dinner
will be served in the restaurant after dawn.
9
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 14,
Saturday
Mawamba Lodge ***, Standard, or similar
Tortuguero - San José
After breakfast we start our journey back to San José. Once again we will have the
possibility to observe many birds and plants, before we change from water to land
transportation, close to La Pavona or Caño Blanco. We will pass the Braulio Carillo National
Park and will arrive to San José at around 5:00 p.m. Check-in at your hotel. The evening is
at your leisure.
Info: Even on private operation basis, the transfer to San José is on seat-in basis. This can’t
be changed.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 15,
Sunday
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel Tryp Sabana ***(*) or similar
Transfer to the airport or extension
Transfer to Juan Santamaría Airport, check-in and end of our services. You can also book
an extension program.
Included meals:
breakfast
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c (except on Ometepe
Island, where vehicles generally do not provide a/c), and by boat according to programme
Bus sizes:
Nicaragua: 2-3 Pax Minibus, 4-7 Pax Microbus Typ Hiace for 16 passengers, 8-14 Pax Sprinter for 19
passengers, 15-18 Pax Coaster for 25 passengers
Costa Rica: 2-3 Pax 4x4 car, 4-6 Pax Bus with 12 seats, 7-15 Pax Bus with 19-22 seats, 16-24 Pax Bus
with 24-27 seats, 25-40 Pax Bus with 42 seats
Accommodation at the mentioned hotel categories in standard rooms with private bathrooms incl. taxes
Meals as per description
English-speaking tour guide up from day 2. Tour guides change per country.
All entrance fees for the mentioned excursions and activities (except Volcano Cerro Negro)
Travel documentation with useful information (the program itself has to be provided by the travel agent)
Not included services
Tourist card upon entering Nicaragua, currently USD 10,- per person
Border fee Nicaragua / Costa Rica, currently USD 3,- per person
Airport departure tax Costa Rica, currently USD 28,- per person
Volcano Cerro Negro (USD 40,- p.p., has to be booked while in León)
Beverages
Additional meals
All extras in the hotels
Number of participants
Minimum number of participants:
Maximum number of participants:
2
16
Important information
This tour is a seat-in tour for the English speaking market. Other English speaking participants may travel
with you.
10
Dates of operation roundtrip “Central American Highlights“
Beginning:
Sunday in Managua
Ending:
Sunday in San José
Operation Dates 2012 / 2013
21.10.2012 – 04.11.2012
11.11.2012 – 25.11.2012
09.12.2012 – 23.12.2012
06.01.2013 – 20.01.2013
20.01.2013 – 03.02.2013
03.02.2013 – 17.02.2013
17.02.2013 – 03.03.2013
03.03.2013 – 17.03.2013
17.03.2013 – 31.03.2013
14.04.2013 – 28.04.2013
12.05.2013 – 26.05.2013
23.06.2013 – 07.07.2013
21.07.2013 – 04.08.2013
04.08.2013 – 18.08.2013
18.08.2013 – 01.09.2013
15.09.2013 – 29.09.2013
20.10.2013 – 03.11.2013
Rates on Seat-In-Basis
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013.
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
1‘535
In a single room
1‘907
In a triple room
1‘396
Rates on private basis
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013 (excluding
th
th
th
st
Christmas (December 20 , 2012 to January 6 , 2013) and Easter(March 24 to April 1 , 2013) – upon
request).
Type of Room
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4-5 Pax
6-8 Pax
9-12 Pax
In Double
--
2‗380
1‗945
1‗765
1‘510
1‘395
In Single
In Triple
4‘115
--
2‘685
--
2‘200
1‘820
2‘005
1‘605
1‘810
1‘375
1‘700
1‘265
Reduction for clients who do not use the post-night in San José:
USD 50.- per DBL and SGL room and USD 60.- per TPL room. This as a general rule.
OPTIONAL
Guests, who wish to continue their trip to Panama on day 14 have the option to take a private transfer from
Caño Blanco/La Pavona to Sixaola, the border to Panama. This transfer will be without guide. The lunch
would be omitted on this day.
11
Price per transfer:
Caño Blanco – Sixaola: USD 262,- (price for 1-6 pax)
La Pavona – Sixaola: USD 253,- (price for 1-6 pax)
12
HIGHLIGHTS PANAMA
8 Days / 7 Nights
Operation guaranteed with a minimum of 2 pax
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival Panama City – Transfer in
Individual arrival in Panama City. A driver will wait for you in the arrival hall and take you
directly to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel Country Inn&Suites Amador***, standard room with
garden view, or similar
Panama City – El Valle – Panama City
After breakfast you drive to Ancon Hill. A short hike up the hill will reward you with a
fantastic view of the City and the Panama Canal. With a bit of luck you can see various
animals.
Afterwards you drive westwards on the Panamericana to the crater village El Valle de
Anton, where you will see a variety of flowers. The valley is famous for its orchids. We will
take several short walks so you can enjoy this wonderful landscape.
On the way back you can have a swim in the Pacific ocean in Santa Clara before we arrive
in Panama City.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Tuesday
Breakfast
Panama City Tour
In the morning you will inspect this fascinating city which was built in 1519.
The gorgeous view of skyscrapers, noble mansions and green hills will inspire you for more.
First you get to see Panama Viejo from the 16th Century.
Then you will walk along the shore to the old part of the town called Casco Antiguo.
On foot you will see buildings from the 17th and 18th Century, the remarkable Cathedral
and the San José Church with its splendorous altar.
Afterwards the tour leads to the Causeway from which you have a wonderful view of the
skyline of Panama City and continues to the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal, where
you get a good view of how enormous ships move in and out of the canal.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Panama City – Sobería National Park – Gatún Lake – Colón
In the morning you set out to visit the Soberanía National Park. Once there, you will walk for
about an hour along the ‖El Charco‖ trail.
Afterwards we drive to Gamboa where you will enjoy a 3-hour boat ride on the Gatún Lake.
With a bit luck you will see various animals and some vessels crossing the Panama Canal.
Afterwards you will drive up North and stay near Colón for one night.
The hotel is located directly at the shore of the Gatún Lake.
13
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Thursday
Breakfast, Lunch-Picnic
Hotel Meliá ***(*), standard room or similar
Colón – San Lorenzo – Colón – Panama City
A wonderful drive will bring you to the port of San Lorenzo.
This port was the gathering point of the Peruvian treasures in the 15th century. These were
shipped there towards the metropolis of the empire, and in addition, it was the center of
control and inspection of goods arriving from Spain.
The ruin complex was built and set up in the middle of the tropical jungle and covers a set of
fortresses, castles and military bases.
Afterwards we drive back to Colón, from where you undertake a train trip on the historical
and original railway course to Panama City. The 1-hour train ride leads through the jungle
and alongside the Panama Canal. This track was finished in 1855. The French Panama
Canal company had acquired the railway line in 1880, as an assistance to build the Canal.
In 1904 Americans bought the Canal and the railway line and were operating the railway
line until 1979. In 1998, Panama privatised the railway line and renewed it completely.
Since 2001, the track is accessible again and a unique attraction.
After this beautiful train ride, transfer to your hotel, which is located in the centre of the City
where you find a lot of shopping malls, restaurants and bars.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Friday
Breakfast
Hotel Toscana Inn***, standard room, or similar
Panama City – Emberá Indians – Panama City
After breakfast you will drive up north towards Curutú, where you will get into small boats,
which will carry you up the River Chagrés. A fascinating jungle will surround you on this
boat trip.
While visiting the Emberá Indians you will get an insight into thousands of years of culture
and human tradition, having already existed a long time before Europeans arrived. You will
inevitably feel set back hundreds of years.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Saturday
Breakfast, lunch
Partial crossing of the Panama Canal
In the morning you set out on a very special experience - the partial crossing of the
historical Panama Canal. You drive through a part of this technical marvel, pass different
locks and receive interesting information about the history of the Canal.
You can observe enormous cargo ships during their manoeuvres and will later enjoy lunch
on the ship.
Afterwards you return to the hotel and the rest of the day is at your free disposal.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Sunday
Breakfast, lunch
Panama City – International Airport
During the day transfer to the International Airport. End of your journey or beginning of an
extension program.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c, and by boat
according to the programme
Accommodation in the mentioned hotel categories in standard rooms with private bathrooms
14
English-speaking tour guide from day 2 to 7
All entrance fees for the mentioned excursions and activities
Airport departure tax PTY, currently USD 40,- p.p. (generally already included in the air ticket)
Tips
Beverages
Additional meals
Personal expenses
2
12
with you.
Dates of operation roundtrip “Highlights Panama“
Beginning:
Sunday in Panama City
Ending:
04.11.12 – 11.11.12
18.11.12 – 25.11.12
02.12.12 – 09.12.12
16.12.12 – 23.12.12
13.01.13 – 20.01.13
27.01.13 – 03.02.13
10.02.13 – 17.02.13
24.02.13 – 03.03.13
10.03.13 – 17.03.13
24.03.13 – 31.03.13
07.04.13 – 14.04.13
21.04.13 – 28.04.13
12.05.13 – 19.05.13
16.06.13 – 23.06.13
21.07.13 – 28.07.13
04.08.13 – 11.08.13
22.09.13 – 29.09.13
06.10.13 – 13.10.13
20.10.13 – 27.10.13
Complete Panama Canal Crossing
At the following dates the complete crossing of the Panama Canal will take place (subject to change). Each
Saturday the partial crossing of the channel takes place. Please indicate in your booking if clients would like
to do the partial or complete crossing.
15
Dates of the complete crossing of the Panama Canal 2012 – 2013
(subject to change by the shipping company)
03.11.12
17.11.12
01.12.12
15.12.12
05.01.13
12.01.13
19.01.13
02.02.13
09.02.13
16.02.13
02.03.13
09.03.13
16.03.13
06.04.13
20.04.13
04.05.13
18.05.13
01.06.13
15.06.13
06.07.13
20.07.13
03.08.13
17.08.13
07.09.13
21.09.13
05.10.13
19.10.13
Supplement for the complete Channel crossing USD 44,- net per person.
Rates are stated in USD net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013.
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
1‘160
In a single room
1‘520
In a triple room
1‗090
Additional charge for Hotel Country Inn&Suites Amador, standard room with sea view (for 3 nights):
In a double room:
USD 30,- per person
In a single room:
USD 60,- per person
In a triple room:
USD 18,- per person
1 Pax
2 - 3 Pax
4 - 6 Pax
7 – 9 Pax
10 – 12 Pax
In a double room
-
1‘520
1‘230
1‗070
930
In a single room
2‗480
1‘880
1‘590
1‘430
1‗290
In a triple room
-
1‗450
1‘160
1‘000
860
Type of Room
Additional charge for Hotel Country Inn&Suites Amador, standard room with sea view (for 3 nights):
In a double room:
USD 30,- per person
In a single room:
USD 60,- per person
In a triple room:
USD 18,- per person
16
HIGHLIGHTS COSTA RICA
8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival San José/Costa Rica - Transfer to City Hotel
A member of CANATUR, who will assist you, will await you right after immigration. Our
English-speaking guide will wait for you at the exit of the airport. Transfer to the hotel near
downtown San José.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel Barceló Rincón del Valle ***(*) or similar
San José – Poás Volcano – La Fortuna – Arenal Volcano
We pick you up at your city hotel and drive straight away to Poás Volcano, where you visit
the main crater with its diameter of 1.3 km. It is one of the largest craters in the world and,
although the volcano is resting, there can still be observed some steam and gas eruptions
from a safe distance. You then take a walk through beautiful vegetation and visit a side
crater. We return to the bus and then cross the central mountains range, driving through
coffee plantations to the North of the country. We reach the Caribbean lowlands and the
village of La Fortuna in the afternoon. Check-in at your hotel. Later today, we will drive to
Ecotermales La Fortuna (or Baldí -Thermae, if Ecotermales is fully booked) and enjoy the
hot water and the lush vegetation. The hot springs also offer a bar, and dinner will be served
at the restaurant. Return to the hotel and overnight.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Tuesday
La Fortuna – Lava Field Hike – La Quinta de Sarapiquí – Pineapple Plantation – Plant
A Tree
Today you will enjoy allot of activities. We start with a short drive to Arenal Volcano National
Park, from where we start a nice 1½ hour walk. The first part will lead over an ash trail and
we later reach an old lava flow, which we will cross on a rocky path. From here you can not
only see the impressive power of a volcano, but also enjoy a beautiful view over the Lake
Arenal and the surrounding soft hills. We continue our journey via Muelle and Aguas Zarcas
and drive along huge fruit plantations. Oranges, coconut, yucca, macadamia nuts, papaya
and pineapple are mainly cultivated here. We then reach La Quinta de Sarapiquí Lodge, a
small, cozy and clean country hotel near Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí. They practice an
ecological and sustainable way of tourism, and you will soon see, what that means.
Then we drive to one of the huge pineapple plantations of this area. One of the local
professionals will then explain all the details about the history of pineapple and about the
secrets of production. You will first visit the field and the factory, where the fruits are washed
and packed. We finish our visit with a quick stop at a plantation, where pineapple is grown
as an ornamental plant. You will then have the opportunity to plant a tree. Up from 6
persons, there will be a small cultural event on your schedule.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Wednesday
Breakfast, dinner
breakfast
Visit the Station for Tropical Studies – Small Rainforest Hike - Chocolate Tour
17
This morning around 9am you will arrive at the station for tropical studies in Sarapiquí. Here
a small hike will take place across the safe hiking trails. You may observe the forest and our
local guide will explain and show us the impacts that can be detected in relation to climate
changes. A small interactive discussion about the balance in the tropical forests will be the
end of today‘s visit.
After midday we continue our journey to the Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve, where you first
will enjoy a short walk through the lush vegetation. With a bit of luck, you will be able to see
some mammals here, mainly monkeys, sloths, coatis and also allot of different species of
birds. After that experience you will learn everything about chocolate. The cacao tree
originally comes from South and Central America. A local guide will explain the whole
process from the cacao bean to delicious chocolate, which you of course will be able to
taste at the end. The tour guide might change the order of today‘s itinerary due to weather
conditions or any other operational reason.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Thursday
breakfast
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí – Guápiles – Tortuguero
After a quick coffee, we continue our journey via Horquetas to Guápiles, where we reach
the main road connecting San José with Limón. Here, you will enjoy a typical Costarican
breakfast, before we continue to the area of La Pavona/Caño Blanco. This area is important
for banana production and you will see huge plantations here. Your guide will tell you about
advantages and disadvantages of the yellow fruit. Near Matina we will then continue by boat
and you will cruise on rivers and channels along the beautiful nature to Tortuguero. Checkin at a comfortable lodge and late lunch. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore the
surroundings of this beautiful place. The afternoon may be used for an optional visit to the
Tortuguero Village and the Turtle Conservation Center (entrance fee aprox. USD 2 per
person, not included). It is important to point out, that the local people used to earn their
incoming with killing the sea turtles and sell meat and eggs to the markets in San José.
Thanks to many years of education and voluntary efforts of nature activists, almost the
whole population lives from tourism and protect nature. Return to the lodge.
Info 1: Together with our group, there are also other participants on the Tortuguero Tour days 5, 6
and 7. Even on private operation basis, the transfer to Tortuguero is on seat-in basis. This can’t be
changed.
Übernachtung:
Day 6,
Friday
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Mawamba Lodge *** or Laguna Lodge ***, Standard, or
similar
Today during early morning hours as well as later the day, we will discover the canals of
Tortuguero on a boat trip. If you are lucky, you will be able to observe crocodiles, monkeys,
turtles, sloths, bats, iguanas and of course allot birds. After lunch back at the lodge, we will
again enjoy nature, this time on a walk through the rainforest. Thanks to many years of
education and voluntary efforts of nature activists, almost the whole population of
Tortuguero lives from tourism and protect nature. Return to the lodge. Dinner will be served
in the restaurant after dawn.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Mawamba Lodge *** or Laguna Lodge ***, Standard, or
similar
18
Day 7,
Saturday
Tortuguero - San José
After breakfast we start our journey back to San José. Once again we will have the
possibility to observe many birds and plants, before we change from water to land
transportation, close to La Pavona/Caño Blanco. We will pass the Braulio Carillo National
Park and will arrive to San José at around 5.00 p.m. Check-in at your hotel. The evening is
at your leisure.
Info: Even on private operation basis, the transfer to San José is on seat-in basis. This can’t
be changed.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Sunday
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel Barceló Rincón del Valle ***(*) or similar
San José – International Airport
After breakfast we will bring you to the international airport,, or you can start your optional excursion
program.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c (PKW, Minibus or
bus, depending on number of participants) and by boat, according to programme
Meals as per description (including one non alcoholic, typical drink per meal, generally a fruit juice)
English-speaking tour guide during the whole roundtrip, English speaking airport guide during transfer in
/ out
Entrance fees for the mentioned visits and activities
Travel documentation with useful information (the program itself has to be provided by the travel agency)
Airport tax SJO, currently USD 28,- per person
Optional tours
Tips
Beverages
Additional meals
2
with you.
Rates and dates roundtrip “Highlights Costa Rica“ on seat-in basis
Beginning:
Sunday in San José
Ending:
Sunday in San José
Departures each Sunday up from 04.11.2012.
The rates are stated in USD net per person, valid from 01.11.12 until 31.10.13:
Room Type
Price per person
19
In a double room
978
In a single room
1‘163
In a triple room
903
The rates are stated in USD net per person, valid from 01.11.12 until 31.10.13 (except Christmas/New Year
from 20.12.12. - 6.1.13 and Eastern from 24.03.13 - 31.03.13):
Room Type
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4+ Pax
In a double room
--
1‗384
1‗234
1‗179
In a single room
2‘302
1‘549
1‘394
1‘309
In a triple room
--
--
1‘149
1‘044
20
HIGHLIGHTS NICARAGUA
8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival Managua – Hotel Transfer
Arrival at Managua International Airport and shuttle bus to your hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel Camino Real**** or similar
over the hill and you can enjoy excellent views on old and new Managua from here.
settled Leon Viejo in this ferocious land. Then we will drive to the Pacific coast and will
embark for a boat tour into the Reserve of Juan Venado, famous for its mangroves and
wildlife. At Las Peñitas, on the way back to the cultural town Leon, we will admire a beautiful
sunset (if weather permits).
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Tuesday
Breakfast
León City Tour – Cerro Negro Volcano (OPTIONAL) – León
spectacular views of the city. Then we will visit the archive-museum house of Ruben Dario
as well as the art museum of Ortiz-Gurdian Foundation which contains an impressive
collection of European and Latin American art. As we walk through the city we still can see
some of the old revolutionaries murals painted during the civil war.
In the afternoon you have the opportunity to travel 25 kilometers east from Leon to the black
Volcano Cerro Negro, regarded as the youngest volcano in Central America and formed in
1850 (OPTIONAL TOUR), driving by unique rural sceneries areas where traditional crops as
cassava, sugar cane, peanuts, corn, and others are grown. This fascinating hiking trail will
take us to the summit of this ―black hill‖ and enjoy impressive view over the ―Maribios
volcanic chain‖, nicely constituted by the active cones of San Cristobal and Telica. After
descending on the sandy slopes of the volcano we drive back to León.
Note: The excursion to the Volcano Cerro Negro can be booked while in León. The price
is USD 40.,- per person and has to be paid to the guide directly. Minimum 2 people.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Breakfast
21
Wednesday
volcanic region where internal vents eject hot gasses, water and mud. Afterwards we will
drive from the volcanic fertile soils of the Nicaraguan pacific basin to the north central region
of Estelí, known for its top quality cigars. As we drive we will have the chance to pass by
tobacco fields and then visit one of the many cigar factories in this area. Here we will learn
about the painstaking process of selecting the best tobacco leaves, drying, rolling and
packing.
Then we will drive back to the highlands of Matagalpa, also known as the coffee hub. After
taking our rooms at Selva Negra Lodge, we will go for a nature walk into the primary tropical
forest to explore the lush vegetation and try to discover the elusive birdlife of the region.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Thursday
Granada
cocoa bean, varieties, roasting and grinding and mixing.
Then we will drive from the highlands on the Pan-American Highway descending on the
landscapes, lava incandescence, bat caves, an absolutely wonderful experience.
In the dark we will drive to town Masaya and enjoy a folkloric event while we take our typical
dinner.
After this we will then drive into the charming colonial city of Granada.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Friday
Breakfast, dinner
Isletas – Granada
Granada, displaying the most important pre-Hispanic totem collection in Nicaragua. We will
also visit the historical center of the city where we can observe the Bishop Palace,
We will then head to Masaya‘s market where you can find a wide variety of fine quality
Before we reach our hotel we will embark on a natural excursion on the Lake Nicaragua - a
boat tour along some of the volcanic islands, generally known as ―Las Isletas‖.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Saturday
Breakfast
Selva Negra Lodge** or similar
Breakfast
Granada – San Jorge – Moyogalpa - Charco Verde – Playa Santo Domingo
sugarcane and rice fields, as well as plantations of bananas, papayas, water melons and
passion fruits. We then reach the small town of San Jorge where we take the ferry on the
Lake Nicaragua to the volcanic island of Ometepe. Reaching Moyogalpa, one of the two
main towns of the Island, we drive around the active volcano of Concepcion to visit ―Charco
22
Verde‖, known for its dark green lake, lush surrounding vegetation, birdlife and howler
monkeys.
Then we continue on to Playa Santo Domingo where you can relax at the end of the day
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Sunday
Breakfast
Standard Hotel** - **(*) (Hotel Villa Paraíso**(*) or similar)
Ometepe Island – Moyogalpa – San Jorge – Transfer Out
After breakfast, we leave the hotel and drive back to Moyogalpa to take the ferry to theSan
Jorge. Back at the mainland, we head to Managua or La Fortuna in Costa Rica (for those
clients that booked the ―Costa Rica Highlights‖ as an extension to this tour), where our
services end.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
Island, where vehicles generally do not provide a/c), and by boat according to programme
English-speaking tour guide from day 2 during the entire roundtrip
Border cost in Peñas Blancas (currently USD 3,- per person; only for customers continuing to La Fortuna
in Costa Rica)
Beverages
Additional meals
Volcano Cerro Negro (USD 40,- p.p., has to be booked while in León)
Airport departure tax MGA, currently USD 35,- per person (generally already included in the flight ticket)
2
12
with you.
Dates of operation roundtrip “Highlights Nicaragua“
Beginning:
Sunday in Managua
Ending:
Sunday in Managua
21.10.2012 – 28.10.2012
11.11.2012 – 18.11.2012
09.12.2012 – 16.12.2012
23
06.01.2013 – 13.01.2013
20.01.2013 – 27.01.2013
03.02.2013 – 10.02.2013
17.02.2013 – 24.02.2013
03.03.2013 – 10.03.2013
17.03.2013 – 24.03.2013
14.04.2013 – 21.04.2013
12.05.2013 – 19.05.2013
23.06.2013 – 30.06.2013
21.07.2013 – 28.07.2013
04.08.2013 – 11.08.2013
18.08.2013 – 25.08.2013
15.09.2013 – 22.09.2013
20.10.2013 – 27.10.2013
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
695
In a single room
925
In a triple room
630
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013 (excluding
th
th
th
st
Christmas (December 20 , 2012 to January 5 , 2013) and Easter(March 24 to 31 , 2013) – upon request).
Type of Room
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4-5 Pax
6-8 Pax
9-12 Pax
In Double
-
1,080
835
745
630
580
In Single
1,945
1,255
1,010
920
805
755
In Triple
-
-
785
695
580
530
24
HIGHLIGHTS GUATEMALA
8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival Guatemala City – Transfer to Hotel
We await our guests right at the exit of the Aurora International Airport, after immigration
and customs. Transfer to your city hotel in Guatemala City.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
First Class Hotel**** (Hotel Holiday Inn****, Standard, or
similar)
Guatemala City Tour – Transfer to Antigua Guatemala
After breakfast departure from your hotel northbound through the Civic Center and
downtown up to the Relief Map. Admire the engineering achievement in stucco of this giant
one-acre map built with surprising accuracy despite the limited technology at the turn of the
last century. Transfer to ―Plaza de la Constitución‖ (former Central Plaza) and visit the
National Palace of Culture, the Cathedral and the ―Portal del Comercio‖. Continue further
south on Sixth Avenue (former main commercial street), ―Avenida Reforma‖ and ―Avenida
de las Americas‖ to the ―Popol Vuh‖ Museum exhibiting a precious collection of pre-hispanic
art in stone and ceramics found in the Maya World. In the afternoon continue to Antigua
Guatemala.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Tuesday
American breakfast
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Las Farolas***, Standard, or
similar)
Antigua City Tour – Panajachel
The streets in Antigua are lined with the workshops of artists and craftsmen. Churches,
convents and mansions recapture the glory of a city that was the capital of a Spanish colony
for over 200 years. The designs are a reflection of tastes prevalent at the time. Antigua is
considered one of the finest examples of urban planning in Latin America. Around the
Plaza Mayor or Main Square the principal church and state was erected: The Cathedral,
The Palacio de los Capitanes Generales and the City Hall. Visit to the most important
buildings and ruins of this colonial city. In the afternoon, transfer to Panajachel located on
the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlán.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Wednesday
American breakfast
Comfort Class Hotel ***(*)-**** (Porta Hotel del Lago****,
Standard, or similar)
Panajachel – Boat excursion to Santiago Atitlán, San Antonio Palopó and Santa
Catarina Palopó – Panajachel
Enjoy a boat excursion across the lake to Santiago Atitlán, located among three magnificent
volcanoes. Walk through the streets and visit the different art galleries of the primitive
painters. Enter the ―Church of Santiago Apostol‖, built in 1547 in honor of St. James. Watch
the curious Mayan rites of ―Maximón‖, a native deity, at the local ―Cofradía‖.
Continue to San Antonio Palopó and Santa Catarina Palopó, well known for their textiles.
Until today, women use the traditional back-strap loom while men produce wider wefts of
25
striped cloth on the foot loom introduced by the Spaniards during the Colonial period. In
these little villages, people also earn their living from the cultivation of onions and aniseed.
Late in the afternoon, return to Panajachel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Thursday
Panajachel – Chichicastenango Market – Church of San Andrés Xecúl –
Quetzaltenango
Early in the morning drive to Chichicastenango, one of the most important Mayan
communities of the country. The visit to ―Chichi‖ on its market day is an unforgettable
experience full of color, sounds and religious syncretism. Visit the famous open-air market,
where native handicrafts are traded and enter the 400-year-old ―Church of Santo Tomás‖,
where catholic and Mayan rites take place in a mystical atmosphere.
Around midday, departure from Chichicastenango to visit the town of San Andrés Xecúl.
This village is dominated by a 16th Century church, which is literally an outpouring of Indian
creativity. Picked out in red, blue and green on a vibrant yellow background, saints, angels
and cherubs share the crowded façade with quetzals and corn. See the same motifs
embroidered around the collar of the women‘s ceremonial blouses. Finally, continue to
Quetzaltenango, second largest city of the country. Right in the heart of the city, the Central
America Park is lined with buildings dating from the turn of the last century. Transfer to your
hotel for accommodation.
Übernachtung:
Day 6,
Friday
American breakfast
Comfort Class Hotel ***(*)-**** (Porta Hotel del Lago****,
American breakfast
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Pensión Bonifaz***,
Quetzaltenango – Almolonga – Zunil – San Francisco El Alto Market – Guatemala City
In the morning, departure from your hotel to Almolonga, a vegetable-growing town, also
known for its fine weaving. Continue to Zunil, framed as in a picture with its white colonial
church gleaming above the red-tiled and rusted tin roofs of the low houses. Zunil is a pretty
agricultural and market town in a lush valley framed by steep hills and dominated by a
towering volcano.
Continue to San Francisco El Alto, where one of the biggest and most important markets of
the highlands takes place. Livestock, crops, tools, seeds, textiles and thread from different
Mayan communities are traded by merchants in this traditional emporium. After this
impressive visit return to Guatemala City.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Saturday
American breakfast
similar)
Guatemala City – Flores – Tikal – Flores – Guatemala City
Very early in the morning transfer to ―La Aurora‖ International Airport for a 45-minutes-flight
to Santa Elena, Flores. Upon arrival, transfer to a local restaurant for breakfast. Continue to
the famous ruins of Tikal: towering pyramids poke above the jungle‘s green canopy to catch
the sun. Howler monkeys swinging through the branches of the ancient trees as brightly
colored parrots and toucans dart from perch to perch in a cacophony of squawks. After a
guided tour via Complex ―Q‖, the North- and Central Acropolis with its Main Square, as well
as Temple IV and Mundo Perdido enjoy a grill-lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards visit of
the Sylvannus G. Morley Museum showing an interesting collection of local findings of
ceramics and jade. Finally, return to Flores and take your flight back to Guatemala City.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
American breakfast, lunch (in Tikal)
similar)
Guatemala City – Transfer to the International Airport
26
Sunday
(Optional: Tour to Pacaya Volcano – in the morning)
Morning at leisure.
Optional half day excursion to Pacaya Volcano:
(Important: This tour is subject to weather conditions and to the activity the volcano may
have during the time of your visit!)
Today you will admire the magnificent volcanoes near Guatemala City and Antigua by
climbing the Pacaya Volcano. The Pacaya is an active volcano some 2,550 m high, though
due to constant eruptions its exact elevation is difficult to ascertain. The volcano is a
challenge for geologists and intrepid climbers. After breakfast you will be picked up at your
hotel and drive to San Vicente Pacaya, our departure point. Our hiking trail leads us through
pine and oak forests and passes by lava fields and if the volcano activity permits it, we
might even be able to walk up to the crater. Under good weather conditions you can see as
far as the Pacific Coast from here. Descend and return by bus to Guatemala City.
Transfer to ―La Aurora‖ International Airport for departure flight to your next destination.
Included meals:
American Breakfast will be served from 06:00 a.m.
onwards. Please note that no breakfast will be served for
departures earlier than 06:00 a.m.
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c and by boat,
according to programme
English-speaking tour guide during the whole roundtrip (one guide in the highlands and another guide in
the Petén)
Bellboys
Flight Guatemala City - Flores - Guatemala City approx. US$ 250.-- per person (subject to change by
airline)
Info: You can also book the flights with a sales agent of Grupo Taca in your country.
Airport taxes
- Airport security tax GUA – FRS – GUA: currently US$ 3 per person and flight
- International airport security tax GUA: currently US$ 3 per person
- Airport tax GUA: currently US$ 30 per person (generally already included in the ticket)
Transfer in for pre-nights in Guatemala City (will be charged separately, taking place on private basis
without guide service)
Tips
Beverages
Additional meals
Additional excursions
2
16
This tour is a seat-in tour for the English speaking market.
27
Dates of operation roundtrip “Highlights Guatemala“
Beginning:
Sunday in Guatemala City
Ending:
Sunday in Guatemala City
14.10.12 – 21.10.12
04.11.12 – 11.11.12
02.12.12 – 09.12.12
13.01.13 – 20.01.13
27.01.13 – 03.02.13
10.02.13 – 17.02.13
24.02.13 – 03.03.13
10.03.13 – 17.03.13
07.04.13 – 14.04.13
05.05.13 – 12.05.13
16.06.13 – 23.06.13
14.07.13 – 21.07.13
28.07.13 – 04.08.13
11.08.13 – 18.08.13
08.09.13 – 15.09.13
13.10.13 – 20.10.13
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
900
In a single room
1´200
In a triple room
830
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013, except for
st
th
rd
Christmas and New Years (December 21 2012 – January 06 2013) and Easter (March 23 2013 – March
st
31 2013).
Type of Room
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
5 Pax
In a double room
--
1‗265
1´025
950
920
In a single room
2‘265
1‘565
1‗325
1‗250
1‗220
In a triple room
--
--
955
880
850
Type of Room
6 Pax
7-9 Pax
10-13 Pax
14-16 Pax
In a double room
870
805
725
710
In a single room
1‗170
1‗105
1‗025
1´010
In a triple room
800
735
655
640
28
Optional Pacaya Tour
Rates of the optional Pacaya tour:
st
rd
st
Net-rates per person in USD valid until October 31 2012 except for Easter (23 2013 – March 31 2013),
st
th
Christmas and New Years (December 21 2012 – January 06 2013).
Private basis:
01 Pax
165.00 USD
02 Pax
95.00 USD
03 Pax
70.00 USD
04 Pax
60.00 USD
05 Pax
55.00 USD
06 Pax
50.00 USD
07-09 Pax
45.00 USD
10-13 Pax
40.00 USD
14-16 Pax
35.00 USD
The rates of the Pacaya tour include:
Transportation by comfortable vehicle with a/c
English-speaking tour guide
Admission fee to the park
Local taxes VAT-INGUAT
The rates of the Pacaya tour do not include:
Insurances
Voluntary tips for tour guide and driver
Beverages or meals
Personal expenses
Additional excursions
Rent a horse in case you want one by
paying a supplement of approx. USD 25.00
per person on the spot
What you need for the Pacaya-hike:
Good boots that lace up (low cut shoes and tennis shoes fail to provide ankle support and also let
volcanic grit get into your socks, which can be pretty uncomfortable); canteen of water; snacks or
some fruit; sunblock and dark glasses; a hat that won't blow off (one with a chin strap would be good);
rain poncho just in case of bad weather; jacket and long pants; camera and film. It is not
recommended that you bring unnecessary cash, jewelry, expensive watches (windblown volcanic grit
can be hard on watches).
Important: This tour is subject to weather conditions and to the activity the volcano may have
during the time of your visit!
29
HIGHLIGHTS YUCATAN
8 Days / 7 Nights
From 2 Pax onwards on private basis
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival in Cancun – Transfer to the Hotel
After arriving at the airpot in Cancun, transfer to your hotel.
Included Meals:
Overnight:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel Radisson Hacienda Cancún **** or similar
Cancun – Tulum – Bacalar – Chetumal
Pick up by guide. Transfer to old Mayan port Tulum. Tulum was one of the last cities
inhabited and built by the Mayans, it was at its height between the 13th and 15th centuries
and managed to survive about 70 years after the Spanish began occupying Mexico. The
Maya site may formerly have been known also by the name Zama, meaning City of Dawn
because it faces the sunrise. Tulum stands on a bluff facing east towards the Caribbean
Sea. There are three major structures of interest at the Tulum site. El Castillo, the Temple of
the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God are the three most famous buildings.
Transfer to the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar, a colonial town with a Spanish fortress
overlooking the lagoon. Visit of the small but intriguing pirate museum. Enjoy a swim in
nearby deep blue Cenote Azul. Late afternoon arrival in Chetumal.
Included meals:
Overnight:
Day 3,
Tuesday
American Breakfast
Hotel Holiday Inn Chetumal **** or similar
Chetumal – Kohunlich – Chicanna - Palenque
Leaving Chetumal you are soon entering the so called Rio Bec region which features some
interesting Maya sites like Kohunlich. The site was settled by 200 BC, but most of the
structures were built in the Early Classic period from about 250 to 600 AD. Many of them
are still covered with thick vegetation and overgrown by trees. The city appears to have
functioned as a regional center The site is best known for its Temple of the Masks, an Early
Classic pyramid whose central stairway is flanked by huge humanized stucco masks.
Traveling through the lowland of southern Campeche, eventuall we reach Chicanna.
Chicanná was a Maya town from the Classic period. The name means "House of the
Serpent Mouth" in the Mayan language. Chicanná is one of the most striking examples in
the region of the mixing of architectural styles. It's buildings have features of the Río Bec,
Chenes and even the Puuc style from the north. Transfer to hot lowlands of Chiapas and to
Palenque.
Included meals:
Overnight:
Day 4,
Wednesday
American Breakfast
Hotel Ciudad Real Palenque ***(*) or similar
Palenque – Agua Azul / Misol Ha – Palenque
Early morning visit of mystic ancient Maya city of Palenque built admidst lush emerald
rainforest. Visit famous Temple of Inscription carrying deep inside tomb of ruler Pakal.
Discover the longest Maya text carved in stoneglyphes. Walk the maze of the well
preserved palace with its unique observatory tower. Climb up the the Temple of the Cross
30
with its remarkable narrative inscriptions. Walk down a jungle trail spotting more silent
witnesses of a long gone high civilization. Afternoon transfer on mountain roads to Mexicos
most beautiful water cascades in Agua Azul. Take a refreshing swim in one of the rock
pools before we return to Palenque.
Included meals:
Overnight:
Day 5,
Thursday
American Breakfast
Hotel Ciudad Real Palenque ***(*) or similar
Palenque – Campeche – Uxmal
Morning transfer along Gulf of Mexico to colonial port city of Campeche. The city was
founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistadores as San Francisco de Campeche atop the preexisting Maya city of Canpech or Kimpech. The Pre-Columbian city was described as
having 3,000 houses and various monuments, of which little trace remains.Due to the
notorious pirate attacks, city was protected by bullwarks (baluartes) which can still be seen
today. Recently historical center of Campeche was carefully restored and shines in its old
splendor. City tour including visit of small pirate museum in Baluarte San Carlos and
botanical gardens.Traveling on country roads passing by citrus plantations we reach Maya
site Kabah which is divided by road. Interesting its temple Codz Pop which was dedicated to
the rain god Chaac. Late afternoon arrival in Uxmal. Sound & Lightshow Uxmal.
Included meals:
Overnight:
Day 6,
Friday
American Breakfast
Hotel Villas Arqueológicas Uxmal ***(*) or similar
Uxmal – Celestun – Merida
Visit Uxmal. The place name is Pre-Columbian and it is usually assumed to be an archaic
Maya language phrase meaning "Built Three Times", Uxmal holds some of the most
complex and beautiful examples of the regional Puuc-style architecture, and its magnificent
pyramids and structures make it a popular tourist destination. Amazing the steep pyramid of
the Dhwarf, the Nunnery, Ball Court and Governeurs Palace.
Transfer to fishing village Celestun on Golf of Mexico. En route visit of former Henequen
Hacienda in Yaxcopoil. Discover this historic sisal factory: the machinery from the turn of
19th century still twines thick sisal cords – an interesting insight into the once so important
processing of the ―Green Gold‖. Sisal or Henequen, used for packing and transport
purposes of goods, was once the most important industry of the region and practiced in over
200 haciendas. The estate owners, called ―Hacienderos‖, enjoyed great wealth and fame.
Upon arrival in Celestun, we take a boat tour into lovely lagoon, natural habitat of many pink
flamingos. Late afternoon arrival in the capital of state Yucatan, Merida.
Included meals:
Overnight:
Day 7,
Saturday
American Breakfast
Hotel El Castellano ***(*) or similar
Merida – Izamal – Chichen Itza
City tour in Merida which begins on the Zocalo (main plaza). Visit the oldest cathedral,
Governors Palace with the stunning murals painted by local artist Pacheco, city founders
former residence Francisco de Montejo. Transfer to city of three cultures Izamal where
bishop Diego de Landa had built an convent over a Maya temple. Climb the ―Firebird‖
pyramid for a breathtaking roundview over colonial Izamal and its surroundings. Afternoon
arrival in Chichen Itza. Evening: sound & Lightshow Chichen Itza.
Included meals:
Overnight:
Day 8,
Sunday
American Breakfast
Hotel Villas Arqueológicas Chichen ***(*) or similar
Chichen Itza – Valladolid – Cancun oder Anschlussprogramm
Visit of the biggest Maya site in Yucatan, Chichen Itza. Dominating the center of Chichén is
the Temple of Kukulkan (the Maya name for Quetzalcoatl), often referred to as "El Castillo"
(the castle). This step pyramid has a ground plan of square terraces with stairways up each
31
of the four sides to the temple on top. Along the south wall of the Temple of Warriors are a
series of what are today exposed columns, although when the city was inhabited these
would have supported an extensive roof system. The columns are in three distinct sections.
Learn more about the famous Kukulkan pyramid with the Equinox spectacle, Temple of
Warriors, Holy Cenote and ObservatoryLearn more about the famous Kukulkan pyramid
with the Equinox spectacle, Temple of Warriors, Holy Cenote and Observatory. Afternoon
visit of nearby cenote Ik Kil. Have a refreshing swim in crystal clear waters. Transfer to
Cancun or Riviera Maya. End of services.
Included meals:
American Breakfast
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c according to the
program.
Accommodation at the mentioned hotel categories in rooms with private bathroom
English speaking guide during the roundtrip from day 2 onwards
Not included
Airport tax CUN, at the moment USD 23,- per person
Optional tours
Voluntary tips
Beverages
Any meals not mentioned above
2
12
Type of room
2 pax
In double
1‗634
32
CUBA TRADICIONAL
7 Days / 6 Nights
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival to Havanna / Cuba
Upon your arrival in Havana meet and greet with the English speaking Cuban guide and
transfer to your hotel in Old Havana.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel**** (Hotel Telégrafo**** or similar)
Colonial Havana and the flair of the Fifties
The morning starts with a walking tour through colonial Old Havana including the most
important sites: Capitolio, Obispo Street, Cathedral Square, Hemingways „Bodeguita¨ and
his room at the Hotel Ambos Mundos, Plaza de Armas with Palacio de los Capitanes
Generales, Castillo de la Fuerza Real and El Templete, Plaza Vieja etc. Lunch with livemusic at the patio or terrace of restaurant ¨La Mina¨, Plaza de Armas. In the afternoon by
bus through the Havana of the 1950s including Revolution Square, Malecón, the legendary
Hotel Nacional and the former upper class residential area of Miramar featuring beautiful
manors along Havana‗s „Fifth Avenue― (5ta Avenida).
Optional in the evening (supplement see rates section):
Tropicana – Paradise under the stars
Enjoy a nostalgic journey through Cuban Music and Dance from Cha-Cha-Cha to Mambo
from Son to Salsa and Afro-Cuba. More than 200 artists, dancers and musicians, including
a big 1950s style live orquestra will entertain you in a beautiful garden ambiente with a big
open air stage.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Tuesday
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel**** (Hotel Telégrafo**** or similar)
Havana – Pinar del Rio – Viñales – Soroa (or Havana)
Early in the morning along the „Tobacco Route― to Pinar del Rio. Followed by a scenic drive
through the Mogote valley with its famous limestone rocks and to the picturesque village of
Viñales. Visit at the house of a „Veguero― (tobacco farmer) and further on to the impressive
„Prehistoric Wall― rock paintings. On a fascinating boat tour you will discover the Indian
Cave „Cueva del Indio―, before the tour continues to the Sierra del Rosario.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Moka***, Hotel Soroa*** or a
****Hotel in Havana)
Soroa – Guamá – Bay of Pigs – Cienfuegos
On our drive towards the central regions of Cuba we stop in Guamá on the peninsula of
Zapata. Crossing the mangroves and swamps in a boat, we reach ―Taino-Village‖ at the
Laguna del Tesoro. Later along the historic ―Bay of Pigs‖ to Cienfuegos. Enjoy French
colonial flair on a stroll to Plaza Mayor and the Teatro Terry where Caruso performed.
Continue to the peninsula of Punta Gorda with the Moorish-style Palacio del Valle and
typical wooden villas.
33
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Thursday
Breakfast, dinner
)
Comfort Class Hotel*** - **** (Hotel Jagua**** , Hotel La
Union**** or Hotel Rancho Luna***)
Cienfuegos – Sugarmill Valley – Trinidad
Scenic drive along the coast to Trinidad – a town with unique colonial architecture declared
UNESCO World Heritage Site. City tour to Plaza Mayor, surrounded by splendid manors.
Visit the ethnic Canchancharra (honey liquor bar) and the Romantic Museum*. In the
afternoon, we drive to the Valley of the Sugarcane Mills and visit the Hacienda of the
sugarcane barons Iznaga with its ―Slave Tower‖. In the evening experience the romantic
nightlife with life music and dance performances, e.g. at Casa de la Musica or Casa de la
Trova.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Friday
Breakfast
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Las Cuevas***, Hotel Finca
Maria Dolores*** or Hotel Costa Sur*** or similar)
Trinidad – Sierra Escambray – Santa Clara – Cayo Las Brujas
In the morning either via Sancti Spiritus or the Topes Collantes crossing the Sierra
Escambray to the historic city of Santa Clara where Che Guevara celebrated his greatest
victory and found his last rest. Visit of the Che-Guevara Monument* and continuing along a
37-km causeway over the sea to the natural island paradise of Cayo Las Brujas. In the late
afternoon time for sun and beach. Dinner in the hotel.
* On Mondays the museum and mausoleum behind the monument is closed. It can also be closed on other days
without prior notice. Cuba Real Tours does not take any responsibility in case of closure.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Saturday
Breakfast, dinner
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Bungalow Resort Las Brujas*** or
similar)
Cayo Las Brujas – Remedios – (Varadero) – Havana
In the morning via the nearby Cayo Santa Maria or Cayo Ensenachos (for those, who want
to extend in an All Inclusive Beach resort)* to the mainland and the colonial town of
th
Remedios. Walk across the idyllic Plaza Mayor with the church of San Juan Bautista** (16 century mahogany altar) and further on to Varadero (for those, who want to extend in
Varadero) and the airport of Havana.
*Info: The transfer to the All Inclusive Resorts in Cayo Santa María for guests with extension
is included BEFORE driving to Remedios. Transfers back to Havanna Airport or Varadero
after the beach holiday will be charged seperately.
** Opening hours of churches cannot be guaranteed, as they depend on the local priest.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c, according to
programme
With 02 persons in a private taxi (e.g. Skoda Octavia), With 03 - 05 persons in a Micro-Bus (7 – 10
seats, no aisle, where you can stand up and go around), with 06 - 09 persons in a 20 seater bus, with
10-16 persons in a 20-24 seater bus
English-speaking, Cuban tour guide
Entrance fees for the mentioned visits and activities
Travel documentation with useful information (the program itself has to be provided by the travel agency)
34
Visa for Cuba, currently USD 15 per person
Departure tax Cuba, currently CUC 25 per person (USD 25)
Optional tours
Tropicana Show with transfers
Transfer to the airport after extension
Tips
Beverages
Additional meals and drinks
2
16
This tour is a seat-in tour for the English speaking market.
Dates of operation roundtrip “Cuba Tradicional“ on seat-in basis
Beginning:
Sunday in Havanna
Ending:
Saturday in Havanna
18.11.12 – 24.11.12
02.12.12 – 08.12.12
13.01.13 – 19.01.13
03.02.13 – 09.02.13
03.03.13 – 09.03.13
07.04.13 – 13.04.13
12.05.13 – 18.05.13
07.07.13 – 13.07.13
18.08.13 – 24.08.13
13.10.13 – 19.10.13
PROCEDURE WITH CUBA REAL TOURS SEAT- IN TOURS
All reservations are on request and CUBA REAL TOURS (CRT) must reconfirm the reception of each
reservation by e-mail.
1st Deadline: Information by CRT about the Number of Participants:
45 to 40 days before the start of the roundtrip CRT will inform about the total number of participants from all
the touroperators, which have sent reservations. This information will be sent on a Monday, Tuesday or
Wednesday. CRT will also inform in this e-mail, if the minimum number of participants has been reached or
not.
Reaching of the minimum Number of Participants:
If the minimum number of participants has been reached, the roundtrip will be executed.
Any cancellations from this moment are subject to the CRT cancellation conditions.
Not reaching the minimum Number of Participants:
35
See 2nd deadline.
2nd Deadline (only relevant if minimum Number of Participants is not reached):
If CRT has reported that the minimum number of participants is not reached, each tour operator must inform
CRT within the 5 following work-days (after having received the information that the minimum number is not
reached), if the clients are willing to pay the supplement*, which is necessary to guarantee the execution of
the roundtrip with less persons than the required minimum.
Deadline for this information, which has to be sent by the tour operators:
7 pm on the 5th working day after the 1st deadline.**
Cancellations are stilll possible without costs (because the minimum number is not reached).
* The prices of the supplements (if minimum number of participants is not reached) can only be negotiated
by exception.
** Relevant is the time on the e-mail from the country, from where the e-mail is sent (Europe, England,
America, Australia etc.). In case, that the e-mail does not arrive within this time frame, CUBA REAL TOURS
can cancel the whole journey or the journey of the client of the touroperator which did not sent the e-mail
within the given time limit.
3rd Deadline: Final Confirmation or Cancellation of the Roundtrip.
35 to 32 days before the beginning of the roundtrip, CRT will send the final confirmation or the cancellation
of the journey. The information will be sent by e-mail on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. In case of a
confirmation CRT also informs if the tour will be done for the normal price or if the supplements apply (based
on the informations which the touroperators have made before (see 2nd Deadline)). Any cancellations after
the final confirmation of the roundtrip are subject to the CRT cancellation conditions.
More participants after the 1st Deadline:
After the 1st deadline (if the roundtrip is confirmed and the minimum number is reached) it is still possible for
the touroperators to send more reservations on request. CRT will confirm the reception of the requested
reservations, but the decision if and when these further reservations will be accepted is on behalf of CRT.
The confirmation (or cancellation) for these additional requested reservations must be send by CRT until the
3rd deadline (= 35 to 32 days before the begin of the journey, 12 pm Cuban time on the e-mail) latest.
After this 3rd Deadline no more further reservations are accepted (or only in very exceptional cases).
ALLOTMENTS: PLEASE NOTE!
CUBA REAL TOURS does only have allotments for the basic version of the roundtrip with a 4* colonial hotel
in Havana (e.g. Hotel Telegrafo). The Hotels Saratoga (5*), IBEROSTAR Parque Central (5*) are always
only on request.
This is also the case for the Hotel Gran Hotel IBEROSTAR (4*) in Trinidad (only on request, whereas for the
basic version of the roundtrip (e.g. Hotel Las Cuevas (3*)), we do have allotments.
Rates on Seat-In basis
Rates are stated in USD net per person.
Note: If currency (CUC) exchange rates is moving strongly (over 7%) or hotel prices and transport prices for
Winter 2012/2013 increase a lot (over 5%) the prices are subject to change, because at the time of creating
this offer (June 2011), not all transport prices for winter 2012/2013 and not all hotel and transport prices for
summer 2013 were known.
SEAT-IN TOUR
From/to Havana
ALL PRICES PER PERSON
In Double
LOW
01.12.– 18.12.
01.05.- 10.07.
01.09.- 31.10.
HIGH
01.11.- 30.11.
03.01.- 30.04.
11.07.- 31.08.
PEAK
19.12.-02.01.
930 USD
+ 155 USD
1050 USD
+ 155 USD
No dep. date
4* Traditional or Colonial Hotel
In Old-Havana* (Pref.: Htl. Telegrafo)
With 02 – 16 participants (per person):
Single room supplement (per person):
No dep. date.
36
Reduction 1 Child (3-11 Years)
sharing a double room with 2 adults.
PLEASE NOTE: Children at Hotel Saratoga
not possible (only in higher room
categories, prices on request)
Supplement Havana
Hotel IBEROSTAR Parque Central (5*)
in Double
in Single**
** (additional to the single room
supplement)
Supplement Havana
Hotel Saratoga (5*) in Double
in Single**
supplement)
Supplem. Iberostar Trinidad in Double:
in Single:**
supplement)
PLEASE NOTE: Children at Hotel Saratoga
not possible (only in higher room
categories, prices on request)
- 120 USD
- 136 USD
+ 92 USD
+156 USD
+92 USD
+156 USD
+ 136 USD
+ 172 USD
+ 164 USD
+ 228 USD
+ 50 USD
+ 95 USD
+ 70 USD
+ 115 USD
Tropicana Show, price per person in US$ net
Incl. Transfers by private taxi:
Best seat category:
USD 136*
Middle seat category:
USD 125*
Incl. Transfers by seat-in taxi (together with other guests), minimum 6 persons:
Best seat category:
USD 121*
USD 109*
Includes: Entrance fee, best or middle seat category, 1 glass of Cava, ¼ bottle of rum, 1 Cola, 1 minisnack,
transfers as indicated above (without guide).
*Please note: During the period of 23.12.12 – 01.01.13 the Tropicana Show has different prices, especially
on 31.12.12 (reservations only on request and confirmation only valid if the supplement has been
communicated to the tour operator or travel agency).
The tour on private basis can start any day of the week.
Rates are per person in USD net. Triple rooms in Cuba are on request.
Note: If currency (CUC) exchange rates is moving strongly (over 7%) or hotel prices and transport prices for
Winter 2012/2013 increase a lot (over 5%) the prices are subject to change, because at the time of creating
this offer (June 2011), not all transport prices for winter 2012/2013 and not all hotel and transport prices for
summer 2013 were known.
CUBA TRADICIONAL
Private Roundtrip
From/to Havana
LOW
01.12.– 18.12.
01.05.- 10.07.
01.09.- 31.10.
HIGH
01.11.- 30.11.
03.01.- 30.04.
11.07.- 31.08.
PEAK
19.12.-02.01.
1645 USD
1730 USD
1795 USD
4* Colonial Hotel in Havana
With 03 - 05 persons in a Micro-Bus (6 –
08 seats, no ail, where you can to stand
up and go around)
With 02 persons in a COMFORT taxi (e.g.
Hyundai Sonata, Audi A4, Mercedes) or
in a Microbus
With 02 Participant
37
With 03 Participants
1290 USD
1380 USD
1500 USD
1080 USD
1170 USD
1280 USD
Single room supplement
1000 USD
+ 165 USD
- 120 USD
1075 USD
+ 165 USD
- 136 USD
1160 USD
+165 USD
+ 92 USD
+156 USD
+92 USD
+156 USD
+82 USD
+144 USD
+ 136 USD
+ 172 USD
+ 164 USD
+ 228 USD
+ 50 USD
+ 190 USD
+ 70 USD
+ 115 USD
+105 USD
+150 USD
+ 11 USD
+ 20 USD
+ 26 USD
+ 36 USD
+ 26 USD
+ 36 USD
-195 USD
-195 USD
-195 USD
Reduction 1 child (3-11) in Double with 2
Adults.
Supplement Havana
Hotel IBEROSTAR Parque Central (5*)
in Double
in Single**
** (additional to Single Supplement)
Supplement Havana
Hotel Saratoga (5*) in Double
in Single
** (additional to Single Supplement)
PLEASE NOTE: Children sharing room with
2 adults not possible at the Hotel Saratoga,
except in higher room categories. Prices for
higher room categories on request.
Supplement Trinidad
Hotel Gran Hotel Iberostar Trinidad
in Double:
in Single:**
** (addtional to Single Supplement)
PLEASE NOTE: Children below 16 years
not allowed at
Gran Hotel Iberostar
Trinidad.
Supplement Trinidad
Hotel Brisas Trinidad del Mar (AI)
in Double:
in Single:**
** (addtional to Single Supplement)
Reduction (per person) with a standard taxi
(e.g. Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris)
Attention: Standard Taxis are smaller and
partially also older. Cuba Real Tours highly
recommends booking a COMFORT Taxi
(basis price)
-180 USD
+142 USD
+212 USD
Tropicana Show, price per person in US$ net
Incl. Transfers by private taxi:
Best seat category:
USD 136*
USD 125*
Incl. Transfers by seat-in taxi (together with other guests), minimum 6 persons:
Best seat category:
USD 121*
USD 109*
Includes: Entrance fee, best or middle seat category, 1 glass of Cava, ¼ bottle of rum, 1 Cola, 1 minisnack,
transfers as indicated above (without guide).
*Please note: During the period of 23.12.12 – 01.01.13 the Tropicana Show has different prices, especially
on 31.12.12 (reservations only on request and confirmation only valid if the supplement has been
communicated to the tour operator or travel agency).
Program changes
The program is subject to change under certain conditions (e.g. overbookings of hotels). Hotels according to
availability. In case of overbookings of hotels or closure of hotels, sites, restaurants etc. CUBA REAL
TOURS will try everything within its possibilities to offer good alternatives for an equal or similar value.
38
HIGHLIGHTS DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Dominican Republic
8 Days / 7 Nights
On this journey across the island you will discover the most beautiful destinations as well as the cultural
highlights of the Dominican Republic. On your trip you will not only marvel at Santo Domingo, the oldest city
of the „New World―, but also at the biggest salt lake of the Caribbean. You will explore the mountain region of
the Cordillera Central and visit Santiago de los Caballeros, the second largest city of the country. On the
Samaná peninsula you will find a tropical paradise with secluded beaches in hidden bays.
Day 1,
Monday
Arrival in Santo Domingo – Transfer to the Hotel
Reception and welcome at the airport Las Americas. Transfer to the ―Zona Colonial‖ of
Santo Domingo. No one can visit the Dominican Republic without coming to the magical,
historical, and romantic capital of Santo Domingo, called the ―First City of the Americas‖,
because it received royal recognition as a city in 1503 and because of all the "firsts" that
happened here before they happened anywhere else in the ―New World‖. Here you will find
the magnificent Cathedral that dominates all others in the Americas, the first monasteries
and first convent, the first European fortress, first mint and treasury office, first hospital, first
university and the first European paved road. Santo Domingo was founded in 1496 on the
east bank of the Ozama River by Bartolomé Colón, Christopher Columbus's brother, and
was baptized New Isabela in honour of the Queen of Spain. Santo Domingo served as the
base for all the Spanish expeditions to the recently discovered lands of the New World and
as the central court of royal justice for all of Spain's growing colonies.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Tuesday
None
Hodelpa Caribe Colonial *** or similar, Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo
Today you will get to know the first European city in America. The walking tour of the
Colonial Zone will take you to the many historical buildings and sites of the city. The visit will
include palaces, forts, museums, churches and plazas. You will visit among others the
famous ―Alcazar de Colon‖, the first Cathedral of the ―New World‖, ―La Torre del Homenaje‖
as well as the pedestrian zone of ―El Conde‖. A lunch will be available in one of the city‘s well
known restaurants. After lunch you will pass to the modern part of the Capital, visiting the
underground stalactite cave ―Los Tres Ojos‖ as well as the Presidential Palace and the
―Faro a Colón‖ for a picture stop.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Wednesday
Breakfast, lunch
Hodelpa Caribe Colonial *** or similar, Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo – San Cristóbal – Salinas de Baní – Azua – Barahona (220 km)
Leaving the city you will drive along the famous ―Malecon‖ towards San Cristóbal, the birth
city of the dictator Trujillo. In Bani you will visit a mango finca (property) and you will learn
everything about this exotic fruit. From planting through the refining process to the export.
From mid-April to late July is harvest season of the mangos. During this period an extensive
tasting is guaranteed! After lunch follows a visit of a sea salt extracting plant as well as a
short hike in the only sandy desert of the Caribbean. Heading west you will pass the
industrial towns of Baní and Azua, founded at the outset of Spanish colonization. The coast
curves along the Caribbean to its nominal centre, the city of Barahona, an old sugar39
processing capital, which has seen better days. On the way you will pass the southern
foothills of the ―Cordillera Central‖ draped with deciduous greenery and the pretty rolling hills
that separate the two towns. Large sugar-cane cultivations can be found in abundance in this
region. Azua was established in 1504 by the future conqueror of Cuba Diego Velázquez, and
the Mexican conquistador Hernán Cortés served as its mayor. The road leads towards the
mountains and through a dry and desert-like area full of cacti and agaves. You will reach the
provincial capital of Barahona in the late afternoon. It‘s been said that the famous pirate
Cofresí had been hiding in this region.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Thursday
Breakfast, lunch
Rancho Don Cesar *** or similar, Barahona
Barahona – Laguna de Oviedo – Barahona (150 km)
Drive along a scenic coastal road with a fantastic view to Los Patos via San Rafael and
Paraiso. Mountainsides covered with unspoiled forests offer unique opportunities for photo
stops. Journey on to Enriquillo, a small fishing village where time seems to stand still. Soon
you will reach the Laguna Oviedo, which contains fresh water as well as sea water. Only a
small strip of land separates the lagoon and the sea. After a short walk along the lagoon, a
boat ride will show you the beauty of the nature from another point of view. Discover dry,
desert-like vegetation and various species of birds, herons and ducks. The Laguna Oviedo
consists of 22 islands of different sizes and vegetation. Enjoy a perfect view over the lagoon,
the Jaragua national park, the Caribbean Sea and the mountains of Bahoruco from a lookout point. A second boat ride will take you directly to the biggest flamingo colony of the
Dominican Republic. Head back towards Barahona, but stop first in Los Patos to take a
refreshing dip in the river. In Bahoruco, visit a Larimar studio to see how the stone is
processed. The Dominican Republic is the only country in the world where you can find this
precious stone. The stone was only discovered in 1974 when a Dominican miner brought a
few samples to a jeweler. He was so amazed by the light blue color of the stone that he
gave it the name ―Larimar‖. The stone is scratch-resistant and easy to polish. Chains,
earrings and rings are made from it.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Friday
Breakfast, lunch
Rancho Don Cesar *** or similar, Barahona
Barahona – Santo Domingo – Bonao – La Vega – Jarabacoa (360 km)
Short visit to Barahona, a town with mostly wooden houses and huts. It is the center of the
sugar industry. You will visit a sugar cane factory and learn all about the sugar extraction
process.
Longer drive via Azua and Bani to San Cristobal, where you leave the highway and continue
on Road 505. In the middle of a beautiful green landscape in ―La Toma‖, you will have the
opportunity to take a refreshing dip in one of the fresh-water river basins. Continue through
typical Dominican villages to the small city of Madrigal. Here, you will leave Road 505 to
continue on the highway ―Autopista Duarte‖, the main connection between the country‘s
South (Santo Domingo) and North (Puerto Plata). Cross the countryside via Bonao to La
Vega. Visit to the fortress ―La Concepción‖, built by Columbus because he suspected rich
gold deposits in this region. After passing La Vega, you will enter the mountain area of the
Cordillera Central, the ―Alpes Dominicanos‖. This is where many locals spend their summer
holidays. Jarabacoa is situated 600 meters above sea level and is surrounded by forests, the
rivers ―Rio Yaque del Norte‖ and ―Rio Jimenoa‖ and mountains. Because of the cool
temperatures all year round, this place is a Mecca for hikers and nature lovers. A lot of
adventurous sports are offered here. You will visit the charming Jarabacoa and get to see
the coffee factory ―Monte Alto‖, where you will be told everything about growing and
processing coffee beans. As a matter of course there will also be a coffee tasting. Short stop
at ―La Confluencia‖, where the two rivers «Rio Yaque del Norte» and «Rio Jimenoa»
converge.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Breakfast, dinner
Hotel Gran Jimenoa ***(*) or similar, Jarabacoa
40
Day 6,
Saturday
Jarabacoa – Santiago (90 km)
After breakfast a short ride and walk through the pure nature will take you to the waterfall
„Salto Baiguate―, where water crashes more than 30 meters into a natural pool. Refresh
yourself in the cold but exhilarant river water. Drive to La Vega and visit the place of
pilgrimage ―Santo Cerro‖. Here, on a 465 m high mountain, you can visit the church ―Virgen
de las Mercedes‖, built in 1886. Directly in front of the church there is a cross and a tree.
Allegedly this is the sprout of the tree with which Columbus made the first cross in the
Dominican Republic. The ride goes on into the lush Cibao valley. Coffee, cocoa, tobacco,
rice and bananas are grown here. Santiago is the second largest city of the country and it is
by far not as hectic as the capital. Santiago is the richest city in the country. You will visit the
famous ―Centro Cultural Léon‖ where you can see fine contemporary art of the Dominican
Republic. It is the country‘s finest museum, housing art, anthropological, and cultural
exhibitions. It also hosts artistic seminars, workshops, film festivals, and music
performances. There are three main-building sections of the museum: contemporary art, a
temporary exhibit room, and a Dominican exhibit that focuses on the country‘s ecology,
history, and culture. The museum was founded by the León Jimenez family, one of the most
successful families in the Dominican Republic. They built their fortune in the tobacco, beer,
and banking industries. You will also visit a tobacco factory where you will be told about
tobacco processing. Afterwards photo stop at the landmark of the city, the monument of
heroes and some visits including the cathedral ―Santiago de Apostol‖ and the ―Parque
Duarte‖.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Sunday
Breakfast
Hotel Centro Plaza *** or similar, Santiago de los
Caballeros
Santiago – Moca – San Francisco de Macoris – Nagua – Las Terrenas (180 km)
After breakfast, drive through Moca, famous for its brave men and railroad monument. This
little town lives off its numerous coffee and cocoa plantations. On the edge of Salcedo, you
will visit the sculpture of the ―Tres Hermanas Mirabel‖. The Mirabel sisters – María Teresa,
Minerva and Patria – were murdered cold-bloodedly by Trujillo‘s soldiers after visiting their
imprisoned husbands. This atrocity shocked the world. Visit of the ―Sendero de Cacao‖, the
cocoa route (only for group and private tours). Enjoy the unique possibility to learn
everything about cocoa on the plantation ―Hacienda La Esmeralda‖, which supplies worldfamous chocolate factories. Enjoy the unique opportunity to experience everything from the
harvesting of cocoa beans to processing of chocolate before planting your own cocoa tree.
With your certificate of completion, you will be able to visit the farm whenever you please to
see how your tree is growing. Of course, you will enjoy a cocoa and chocolate tasting. Lunch
during the guided tour. Driving through a fertile valley, you will reach San Francisco de
Macoris. Cocoa is grown here in the shadows of the huge jungle trees. It is laid out to dry
along the sides of the roads. You will pass numerous papaya, banana, mango and palm tree
plantations, and see cows grazing in the meadows. Subsequent drive to Nagua.
Approaching Nagua, you will catch a glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can find
exceptionally beautiful beaches. There are stalls where you can buy freshly roasted pork, or
you can eat at one of the numerous little restaurants along the coastal road. The back
country is full of swampy reeds. The little town Sánchez, with its quiet streets and pretty
wooden Victorian houses, is situated at the entrance to the peninsula at the Bahía de
Samaná. This used to be a busy port at the end of the railroad line from La Vega. The
peninsula is 63 km long and 10 to 20 km wide. It is a tropical paradise with secluded
beaches, clear mountain rivers, sheer cliffs and an enormous bird sanctuary. A steep and
winding road meanders through lovely hills and back to the sea. Las Terrenas is the busy
center of the Northern coast of the peninsula. Here, you can still feel the magic of the
Caribbean. Let the evening finish off on the beach in the typical Caribbean ambience.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Monday
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel Playa Colibri *** or similar, Las Terrenas
Las Terrenas – Santo Domingo (160 km)
41
Enjoy your free time in the morning at the beach or go shopping in the city of Las Terrenas.
At midday transfer via the new highway to Santo Domingo. The highway shows you a variety
of scenic landscapes and goes trough a part of the national park of ―Los Haitises‖.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c and by boat,
Accommodation at the mentioned hotel categories in standard rooms with private bathrooms
English-speaking tour guide from day 2-8.
Entry visa (tourist card) for Dominican Republic, currently USD 10,- per person (to be paid upon arrival at
the airport)
Airport Departure Tax Dominican Republic, currently USD 20,- p.p. (generally already included in the
flight ticket). A quite time-consuming departure form has to be filled out.
Pre-night in Santo Domingo
Optional tours
Tips
Beverages
Additional meals
Personal expenses
2
16
with you.
Dates of operation roundtrip “Highlights Dominican Republic“
Beginning:
Monday in Santo Domingo
Ending:
Monday in Santo Domingo
19.11.12 – 26.11.12
10.12.12 – 17.12.12
07.01.13 – 14.01.13
04.02.13 – 11.02.13
18.03.13 – 25.03.13
08.04.13 – 15.04.13
15.07.13 – 22.07.13
26.08.13 – 02.09.13
02.09.13 – 09.09.13
42
Rates are stated in USD net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013:
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
1‘200
In a single room
1‘445
In a triple room
1‘160
Supplement for 1 Pre-night in a ***Hotel in the old city center of Santo Domingo (incl. breakfast), in
case of arrival to the Dominican Republic on SUNDAYS, rates per person:
In a double room: USD 50,In a single room: USD 90,In a triple room: USD 50,(The transfer-In is already included in the price of the tour, even if the arrival already takes place on
Sunday.)
Important rate information:
All rates are only valid for above mentioned seat-in dates.
On other dates different rates will apply (generally higher), especially for small groups with less than 4
participants.
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013:
Room type
2 pax
3 pax
4 pax
5 pax
6 pax
In a double room
2‗020
1‗530
1‗275
1‗130
1‗075
In a single room
2‗270
1‗780
1‗525
1‗380
1‗325
In a triple room
-
1‗490
1‗235
1‗090
1‗035
Supplement for tours taking place during Christmas / New Year (20.12.12 – 01.01.13) or Easter week
(25.03.13 – 01.04.13): USD 100,- pro Person
Supplement for 1 Pre-night in a ***Hotel in the old city center of Santo Domingo (incl. breakfast), in
case of arrival to the Dominican Republic on SUNDAYS, rates per person:
In a double room: USD 50,In a single room: USD 90,In a triple room: USD 50,(The transfer-In is already included in the price of the tour, even if the arrival already takes place on
Sunday.)
Rates are subject to change
Rates are subject to change in case of high currency fluctuations (above 5%) or unexpected increases
(above 5%) of the rates of our providers. Rates for the upcoming winter season 2011/2012 and summer
2012 are subject to change.
Change of programme
Change of programme subject to change. In case of overbookings or closings of hotels, sightseeings,
excursions, restaurants etc there will be an equal alternative provided according to the possibilities locally.
43
ROUNDTRIP MUNDO VERDE
Costa Rica - Nicaragua - Panama
15 Days / 14 Nights
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival San José / Costa Rica - Transfer to City Hotel
downtown San José.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel Tryp La Sabana ***(*), Standard or similar
San José – Monteverde – Monteverde Reserve
Right after breakfast, your natural experience starts with a journey up into the mountains of
Monteverde passing via San Ramón and Puntarenas. The last 35 km will be a quite bumpy
adventure. Here a hike in the famous Monteverde Reserve with safe and extense hiking
trails are on the schedule. You may see many birds and plants in the dense green. With
some luck the Quetzal bird may also be seen. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure
after check-in at the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Tuesday
Breakfast
Hotel Heliconia ***, Standard or similar
Monteverde - Cañas - Liberia - Peñas Blancas / NICARAGUA - Ometepe
Quite early today you will head back to the Panamerican Highway. Once arrived there, you
continue via Cañas and Liberia northwards to Peñas Blancas, border town to Nicaragua
(approx. 11:30h).
After passing the immigration formalities at the border, ORO Travel will take the group over
and you continue along the great Lake Nicaragua. In San Jorge you will change to ferry
transportation and enjoy a scenic drive to the volcanic Island of Ometepe.
In Moyogalpa our local transportation will be waiting for you and drive to Playa Santo
Domingo passing several colourful villages.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Hotel Villa Paraiso **(*) or similar
Ometepe - Granada City Tour - Granada
In the morning we will visit the museums ―El Ceibo‖ and stop at the famous laguna
―Charco Verde‖ before taking the ferry back to the mainland. From San Jorge, we
continue towards Granada, the oldest city in the Americas, founded in 1524 by the
conqueror Hernández de Córdoba. You will discover and enjoy the historical centre of
this colonial jewel during a walking tour. Dinner in a restaurant in town.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Breakfast, dinner
Hotel Alhambra **(*) or similar
44
Day 5,
Thursday
Granada - Masaya Volcano - Catarina – Boat Tour Las Isletas - Granada
After breakfast, you will start for today‘s excursion. First destination is the Masaya Volcano
National Park, where you can observe the Santiago Crater. Due to its tremendous activity,
local people call this crater ‗mouth of the devil‘.
Then, you will follow the road to Catarina, a traditional town, to enjoy the breathtaking
panorama of Apoyo Lagoon and the whole region.
On the way to Granada you will stop by the ‗Isletas‘, an archipelago of 350 little islands. By
boat you will discover some of these charming islands just offshore Granada and observe
the bird life of this area. Return to Granada.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Friday
Breakfast, lunch
Granada - San Carlos - Los Chiles (COSTA RICA) - La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano
We leave Granada in the morning and drive along Lake Nicaragua to San Carlos. Enjoy
the varied scenery and learn more about this Nicaraguan region by your guide.
From San Carlos we take a private boat along the Rio Frío to Los Chiles, where you reach
Costa Rican soil.
The guide from ARA Tours will wait for you in Los Chiles / Costa Rica (approx. 2:45pm),
from where the journey continues by land transportation to La Fortuna, located at the foot of
the active Arenal Volcano. Check in at hotel Arenal Paraíso. After dinner you may enjoy the
hotel‘s own hot springs until 10:00pm. If the weather is good, we will also approach the
volcano to observe the volcano‘s activity. Return to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Saturday
Breakfast, dinner
Hotel Arenal Paraíso ***(*), Superior or similar
Arenal National Park – Suspension Bridges – Thermal Springs
After breakfast, hike through the Arenal Nationalpark with the Volcano always in view. Later,
you pass through a small forest until you reach an old lava stream from the year 1992.
Afterwards, walk across the suspension bridges to observe nature and landscape from
another perspective. In the evening relax at the thermal springs of the hotel and enjoy your
dinner at the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Sunday
Breakfast, dinner
La Fortuna – Tortuguero
Today we will start very early. After a quick cup of coffee we will leave at 05.00am and drive
via Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and Horquetas to Guápiles, where we will reach the main
road to Limón. Here, at 07.45am, you will enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast before we
continue to the area of La Pavona o Caño Blanco. This area is important for banana
production and you will see huge plantations here. Your guide will tell you about advantages
and disadvantages of the yellow fruit. Near La Pavona o Caño Blanco we will then continue
by boat and you will cruise on rivers and channels along the beautiful nature to Tortuguero.
Check-in at a comfortable lodge and late lunch. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore
the surroundings of this beautiful place. The afternoon may be used for an optional visit to
the Tortuguero Village and the Turtle Conservation Center (entrance fee aprox. USD 2 per
Info 1: Together with our group, there are also other participants on the Tortuguero Tour
45
days 8, 9 and 10. Even on private operation basis, the transfer to Tortuguero is on seat-in
basis. This can’t be changed.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 9,
Monday
Mawamba Lodge *** or similar
Today we again recommend getting up very early. This will not be very difficult with the
natural sounds of the surrounding jungle waking up. Shortly after sunrise is the best time to
observe wildlife in the national park. This early morning tour in a boat is included in the
price. If you are lucky, you will be able to observe crocodiles, monkeys, turtles, sloths, bats,
iguanas and of course allot birds. You will return to the lodge for breakfast Later that day, a
rainforest hike is on your schedule to observe the local flora and fauna together with your
guide and local guide. In the afternoon hours enjoy an included boat ride through the park
and the narrow channels. Return to the lodge.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 10,
Tuesday
Tortuguero – Cahuita
After breakfast, you leave the beautiful area of Tortuguero by boat. Near La Pavona o Caño
Blanco, the bus is waiting for you. You drive to the Caribbean coast, passing the port town
of Limón. With a little bit of luck, you can watch one of the huge transatlantic freighters or
cruise liners passing by. We follow the coast to the South to Cahuita, a small village with a
typical Caribbean ambience. Check in at the hotel. The rest of the afternoon is at your
leisure, enjoy it with a drink in one of the reggae bars and have dinner in one of the local
restaurants. Overnight at the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 11,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Suizoloco Lodge ***, Standard or similar
Cahuita – Sixaola – Panama – Bocas del Toro
After breakfast, we load the luggage once more on the bus and drive the short way to
Cahuita National Park, where you will start for a walk. At the entrance, a donation is kindly
requested. Besides of many species of birds, with a little bit of luck you can see sloths,
monkeys and some more inhabitants of the jungle. Afterwards you continue to Sixaola,
border town to Panama.
Your guide will help you with the immigration formalities and you will cross over a quite
adventurous bridge (approx. 1pm). In Guabito, the Panamanian border town, your new
guide is already waiting for you and you continue to Almirante. Here, you will load the
luggage on a boat and drive about 30 minutes by boat to the islands of Bocas del Toro, a
group of islands in the Caribbean Sea, until arriving at the main Island of Colón. After a
short walk check-in at your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. The main island is called
Colón (Columbus), and the main town is Bocas del Toro. Here you will find bars,
restaurants, shops and souvenir stands in a very relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. The main
attractions of the area are the beaches and the underwater world, inviting for snorkeling and
diving. Your English-speaking staff in the hotel will be happy to inform you about the
activities and organize optional tours, if you wish.
INFO: You can break off the roundtrip on the 11th day.
on to Panama at the border in Sixaola, the bus returns
transfer back to San José. Overnight day 11 / 12 at
including Breakfast and transfer out to the airport,
Combination CR-NIC.
After dropping the clients travelling
to Cahuita, where you can join the
Hotel Casa Conde***(*) or similar
please see Mundo Verde Short
46
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 12,
Thursday
Breakfast
Hotel Swan´s Cay*** or similar
Colón / Bocas del Toro
As already mentioned, one of the main attractions of these islands is the underwater world.
Today you will enjoy a boat excursion to Laguna Bocatorito, where you can admire
dolphins. In a nice local restaurant you can taste some delicious seafood. Coral Key is an
ideal place for snorkeling. In the afternoon you continue to the Red Frog Beach, where you
have time to swim or to explore the island. Passing by Hospital Point, you return to the hotel
on the main island.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 13,
Friday
Breakfast
Hotel Swan´s Cay*** or similar
Colón / Bocas del Toro - Flight to Panama City - City tour
Transfer to the airstrip of the island. Then you will enjoy a 1-hour flight to Panama City. After
your arrival, your guide will take you for a city tour, where you visit the ruins of the old city,
destroyed in 1671 by the pirate Sir Henry Morgan, the cathedral and the National Theater.
Later you drive to Miraflores to get a first impression of the Panama Channel. Miraflores is
one of the many locks, and you can observe the large ships cruising through this technical
miracle.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 14,
Saturday
Breakfast
Hotel Country Inn & Suites El Dorado **(*) or similar
Partial Crossing of the Panama Channel
Early in the morning you will be transferred to the dock, where you board a larger ship for
the unforgettable partial cruise of the Panama Channel. While passing some of the worlds
famous locks, you will get very interesting information about the construction, the problems
and stories of this miracle of techniques. You can also observe other ships passing the
locks. You will have lunch on the boat, afterwards return to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 15,
Sunday
Breakfast, lunch
Return flight from Panama City
Transfer to the international Airport Tocumen of Panama City, where our services end.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
Island, where vehicles generally do not provide a/c) and by boat, according to the program
Costa Rica: 1-6 Pax: Bus with 12 seats, 7-12 Pax: Bus with 19-22 seats
Nicaragua: 1 Pax car, 2-3 Pax Hyundai Minibus, 4-8 Pax Hiace Bus with 16 seats, 9-14 Pax Typ Sprinter
with 19 seats, 15 – 18 Pax Coaster with 25 seats
Panama: 1-4 Pax car, 5-9 Pax Hiace Bus, 10-12 Pax Coaster
Flight from Bocas del Toro to Panama City in torist class (without guide), including taxes and 20kg
luggage allowance
English speaking guide during the roundtrip. No guide on the flight from Bocas del Toro to Panama City.
Guides change per country.
47
Not included
Tourist Card entering Nicaragua (currently USD 10,- per person)
Border cost in Peñas Blancas and Los Chiles (currently USD 6,- per person)
Border fees CR-PAN, currently USD 3,- per person
Departure tax Panama currently USD 40,- per person (normally included in the flight ticket)
Surcharge for the complete crossing of the Panama Channel
Transfer out on other departure days as the one corresponding to this itinerary (will be charged
according to the manual of Gapa Travel)
Eventual Fuel Surcharges
Optional tours
Voluntary tips
Beverages
Additional meals
2
12
The number of participants can be different in each country. This is a seat-in tour for the English speaking
market.
Dates of operation roundtrip “Mundo Verde“
Beginning:
Sunday in San José
Ending:
04.11.12 – 18.11.12
02.12.12 – 16.12.12
13.01.13 – 27.01.13
27.01.13 – 10.02.13
03.03.13 – 17.03.13
07.04.13 – 21.04.13
12.05.13 – 26.05.13
07.07.13 – 21.07.13
04.08.13 – 18.08.13
15.09.13 – 29.09.13
Complete Panama Channel Crossing
At the following dates the complete Panama Channel crossing will take place (subject to change). The partial
crossing of the canal takes place each Saturday. Please indicate in your booking if clients would like to do
the partial or complete crossing.
Dates of the complete Panama Channel Crossing 2012 – 2013
03.11.12
17.11.12
01.12.12
15.12.12
05.01.13
12.01.13
19.01.13
02.02.13
09.02.13
16.02.13
02.03.13
09.03.13
16.03.13
06.04.13
48
0.04.13
04.05.13
18.05.13
01.06.13
15.06.13
06.07.13
03.08.13
17.08.13
07.09.13
21.09.13
05.10.13
19.10.13
20.07.13
Supplement for the complete Channel crossing USD 44,- per person.
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
2‘580
In a single room
3‘020
In a triple room
2‘455
Rates are stated in USD net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013, except for tours
during Christmas / New Year (20.12.2012 – 05.01.2013) and Easter Holidays (24.03. - 01.04.2013).
Type of room
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4-6 Pax
7-9 Pax
In double
-
3‘450
2‘760
2‘465
2‘120
In single
6‘020
3‘935
3‘245
2‘945
2‘600
In triple
-
-
2‘680
2‘380
2‘035
Additional reservations in Panama City
Net-Price per person in US-Dollar, valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013
International Airport – Hotel in Panama City or vice versa
Seat-In basis
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
USD 34.00
USD 17.00
USD 15.00
USD 13.00
Private basis
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
USD 40.00
USD 20.00
USD 18.00
USD 15.00
Hotel Country Inn&Suites El Dorado **(*)
Location: Dthe hotel is situated 5 minutes from the national airport. To get to the international airport it takes
about 40 minutes.
Facilities: A restaurant, bar and a swimming pool is at your availability.
Rooms: The 84 rooms offer shower/WC, TV, telephone and air condition.
including breakfast (continental)
Single room, Jr. Suite
Double room, Jr. Suite
Single room, Standard
USD 90.00
USD 45.00
USD 80.00
49
Double room, Standard
Triple room, Standard (2 Queens-beds)
Children: 0-10 years
USD 40.00
USD 36.00
free of charge
Variations of this tour
Combination Costa Rica - Nicaragua 12 Days / 11 Nights
Combination Costa Rica - Panama 10 Days / 9 Nights
50
ROUNDTRIP MUNDO VERDE
SHORT COMBINATIONS
Costa Rica – Nicaragua 12 Days / 11 Nights
Costa Rica – Panama 10 Days / 9 Nights
Combination Costa Rica – Nicaragua 12 Days / 11 Nights
Day 1,
Sunday
Arrival San José/Costa Rica - Transfer to city hotel
downtown San José.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Monday
None
Hotel Tryp La Sabana ***(*), Standard or similar
San José – Monteverde – Monteverde Reserve
Right after breakfast, your natural experience starts with a journey up into the mountains of
Monteverde passing via San Ramón and Puntarenas. The last 35 km will be a quite bumpy
adventure. Here, a hike in the famous Monteverde Reserve with safe and extense hiking
trails is on your schedule. You may see many birds and plants in the dense green. With
some luck the Quetzal bird may also be seen. Check-in at your hotel. The rest of the
afternoon is at your leisure.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Tuesday
Breakfast
Hotel Heliconia ***, Standard or similar
Monteverde - Cañas - Liberia - Peñas Blancas / NICARAGUA - Ometepe
Quite early today you will head back to the Panamerican Highway. Once arrived there, you
continue via Cañas and Liberia northwards to Peñas Blancas, border town to Nicaragua
(approx. 11:30h).
After passing the immigration formalities at the border, ORO Travel will take the group over
and you continue along the great Lake Nicaragua. In San Jorge you will change to ferry
transportation and enjoy a scenic drive to the volcanic Island of Ometepe.
In Moyogalpa our local transportation will be waiting for you and drive to Playa Santo
Domingo passing several colourful villages.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Hotel Villa Paraiso **(*) or similar
Ometepe - Granada City Tour - Granada
In the morning we will visit the museums ―El Ceibo‖ and stop at the famous laguna
―Charco Verde‖ before taking the ferry back to the mainland. From San Jorge, we
continue towards Granada, the oldest city in the Americas, founded in 1524 by the
conqueror Hernández de Córdoba. You will discover and enjoy the historical centre of
this colonial jewel during a walking tour. Dinner in a restaurant in town.
51
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Thursday
Breakfast, dinner
Granada - Masaya Volcano - Catarina – Boat Tour Las Isletas - Granada
After breakfast, you will start for today‘s excursion. First destination is the Masaya Volcano
National Park, where you can observe the Santiago Crater. Due to its tremendous activity,
local people call this crater ‗mouth of the devil‘.
Then, you will follow the road to Catarina, a traditional town, to enjoy the breathtaking
panorama of Apoyo Lagoon and the whole region.
On the way to Granada you will stop by the ‗Isletas‘, an archipelago of 350 little islands. By
boat you will discover some of these charming islands just offshore Granada and observe
the bird life of this area. Return to Granada.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Friday
Breakfast, lunch
Granada - San Carlos - Los Chiles / COSTA RICA - La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano
We leave Granada in the morning and drive along Lake Nicaragua to San Carlos. Enjoy
the varied scenery and learn more about this Nicaraguan region by your guide.
From San Carlos we take a private boat along the Rio Frío to Los Chiles, where you reach
Costa Rican soil.
The guide from ARA Tours will wait for you in Los Chiles / Costa Rica (at approx. 2:45 pm),
from where the journey continues by land transportation to La Fortuna, located at the foot of
the active Arenal Volcano. Check in at hotel Arenal Paraíso.
After dinner you may enjoy the hotel‘s own hot springs until 10:00pm. If the weather is good,
we will also approach the volcano to observe the volcano‘s activity. Return to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Saturday
Breakfast, dinner
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Sunday
Breakfast, dinner
Today we will start very early. After a quick cup of coffee we will leave at 05.00am and drive
via Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and Horquetas to Guápiles, where we will reach the main
road to Limón. Here, at 07.45am, you will enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast before we
continue to the area of La Pavona o Caño Blanco. This area is important for banana
production and you will see huge plantations here. Your guide will tell you about advantages
and disadvantages of the yellow fruit. Near La Pavona o Caño Blanco we will then continue
by boat and you will cruise on rivers and channels along the beautiful nature to Tortuguero.
Check-in at a comfortable lodge and late lunch. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore
the surroundings of this beautiful place. The afternoon may be used for an optional visit to
the Tortuguero Village and the Turtle Conservation Center (entrance fee aprox. USD 2 per
52
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 9,
Monday
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 10,
Tuesday
of Limón. With a little bit of luck, from far you can watch one of the huge transatlantic
freighters or cruise liners passing by. We follow the coast to the South to Cahuita, a small
village with a typical Caribbean ambience. Check in at the hotel. The rest of the afternoon is
at your leisure, enjoy it with a drink in one of the reggae bars and have dinner in one of the
local restaurants. Overnight at the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 11,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Cahuita – San José
Cahuita National Park, where you will start for a walk. At the entry you will be requested a
small donation. Besides of many species of birds, with a little bit of luck you can see sloths,
monkeys and some more inhabitants of the jungle. Afterwards you can spend some free
time in Cahuita until the tour bus is picking you up and driving you back to San José. Checkin at the hotel and overnight (approx. 1 pm).
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 12,
Thursday
Breakfast
Tryp La Sabana ***(*), Standard or similar
San José – Transfer out
Our services end after drop of at the international airport of San José. Or you may also book
any extension program if you prefer (at an extra charge). The transfer out is always included
and will not be charged separately.
Included meals:
Breakfast
53
Included services
Island, where vehicles generally do not provide a/c) and by boat according to programme
Nicaragua: 1 Pax car, 2-3 Pax Hyundai Minibus, 4-8 Pax Hiace Bus with 16 seats, 9-14 Pax Typ Sprinter
with 19 seats, 15 – 18 Pax Coaster with 25 seats
English-speaking guide during the roundtrip, except on the boat tour to Los Chiles on day 6. Guides
change per country.
Not included
Tourist Card entering Nicaragua (currently USD 10,- per person)
Border costs in Peñas Blancas and Los Chiles (currently USD 6,- per person)
Departure Tax in Costa Rica approx USD 28,- per person
Optional tours
Voluntary tips
Beverages
Additional meals
2
12
Important information:
The number of participants can be different in each country. This is a seat-in tour for the English-speaking
market.
Dates of operation roundtrip “Combination Costa Rica - Nicaragua“
Beginning:
Sunday in San José
Ending:
Thursday in San José
04.11.12 – 15.11.12
02.12.12 – 13.12.12
13.01.13 – 24.01.13
27.01.13 – 07.02.13
03.03.13 – 14.03.13
07.04.13 – 18.04.13
12.05.13 – 23.05.13
07.07.13 – 18.07.13
04.08.13 – 15.08.13
15.09.13 – 26.09.13
54
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
1‘870
In a single room
2‘265
In a triple room
1‘805
Rates on Private Basis
Type of room
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4-6 Pax
7-9 Pax
Double
-
2‘665
2‘070
1‘800
1‘515
Single
4‘790
3‘065
2‘465
2‘195
1‘915
Triple
-
-
2‘005
1‘735
1‘455
In case the post-night in San José should not be requested we can offer the following discount on the above
travel rate:
In a double room:
In a single room:
In a triple room:
37.50 USD per Person
75.00 USD
33.00 USD per Person
55
Combination Costa Rica – Panama 10 Days / 9 Nights
Day 1,
Friday
San José - La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano
In the morning you will be picked up at your city hotel and drive by collective bus (Interbus)
to La Fortuna. Check-in at your hotel. This transfer is not guided; you will meet your Englishspeaking tour guide in the afternoon at the hotel Arenal Paraíso. After dinner you may enjoy
the hotel‘s own hot springs until 10:00pm. If the weather is good, we will also approach the
volcano to observe the volcano‘s activity. Return to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Saturday
Dinner
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Sunday
Breakfast, dinner
Today we will start very early. After a quick cup of coffee we will leave at 05.30h am and
drive via Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and Horquetas to Guápiles, where we will reach the
main road to Limón. Here, at 08.30h am, you will enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast
before we continue to the area of La Pavona o Caño Blanco. This area is important for
banana production and you will see huge plantations here. Your guide will tell you about
advantages and disadvantages of the yellow fruit. Near La Pavona o Caño Blanco we will
then continue by boat and you will cruise on rivers and channels along the beautiful nature
to Tortuguero. The afternoon may be used for an optional visit to the Tortuguero Village and
the Turtle Conservation Center (USD 2,- per pax). It is important to point out, that the local
people used to earn their incoming with killing the sea turtles and sell meat and eggs to the
markets in San José. Thanks to many years of education and voluntary efforts of nature
activists, almost the whole population lives from tourism and protect nature. After dinner and
from July to September, you have the possibility to book an optional night tour to the beach
of Tortuguero, where the endangered Green Sea Turtles lay their eggs in the sand (not
included, costs US$ 30.- per person). Overnight at the lodge.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Monday
56
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Tuesday
of Limón. With a little bit of luck, you can watch one of the huge transatlantic freighters or
cruise liners passing by. We follow the coast to the South to Cahuita, a small village with a
typical Caribbean ambience. Check in at the hotel. The rest of the afternoon is at your
leisure, enjoy it with a drink in one of the reggae bars and have dinner in one of the local
restaurants. Overnight at the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Cahuita – Sixaola – PANAMA – Bocas del Toro
Cahuita National Park, where you will start for a walk. At the entrance, you will be kindly
requested a small donation. Besides of many species of birds, with a little bit of luck you can
see sloths, monkeys and some more inhabitants of the jungle. Afterwards you continue to
Sixaola, border town to Panama (approx. 1 pm).
Your guide will help you with the immigration formalities and you will cross over a quite
adventurous bridge (approx. 1pm). In Guabito, the Panamanian border town, your new
guide is already waiting for you and you continue to Almirante. Here, you will load the
luggage on a boat and drive about 30 minutes by boat to the islands of Bocas del Toro, a
group of islands in the Caribbean Sea, until arriving at the main Island of Colón. After a
short walk check-in at your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. The main island is called
Colón (Columbus), and the main town is Bocas del Toro. Here you will find bars,
restaurants, shops and souvenir stands in a very relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. The main
attractions of the area are the beaches and the underwater world, inviting for snorkeling and
diving. Your English-speaking staff in the hotel will be happy to inform you about the
activities and organize optional tours, if you wish.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Thursday
Breakfast
Hotel Swan´s Cay *** or similar
Colón / Bocas del Toro
As already mentioned, one of the main attractions of these islands is the underwater world.
Today you will enjoy a boat excursion to Laguna Bocatorito, where you can admire
dolphins. In a nice local restaurant you can taste some delicious seafood. Coral Key is an
ideal place for snorkeling. In the afternoon you continue to the Red Frog Beach, where you
have time to swim or to explore the island. Passing by Hospital Point, you return to the hotel
on the main island.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Friday
Breakfast
Hotel Swan´s Cay *** or similar
Colón / Bocas del Toro - Flight to Panama City - City tour
Transfer to the airstrip of the island. Then you will enjoy a 1-hour flight to Panama City. After
your arrival, your guide will take you for a city tour, where you visit the ruins of the old city,
destroyed in 1671 by the pirate Sir Henry Morgan, the cathedral and the National Theater.
Later you drive to Miraflores to get a first impression of the Panama Channel. Miraflores is
one of the many locks, and you can observe the large ships cruising through this technical
57
miracle.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 9,
Saturday
Breakfast
Partial Crossing of the Panama Channel
Early in the morning you will be transferred to the dock, where you board a larger ship for
the unforgettable partial cruise of the Panama Channel. While passing some of the worlds
famous locks, you will get very interesting information about the construction, the problems
and stories of this miracle of techniques. You can also observe other ships passing the
locks. You will have lunch on the boat, afterwards return to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 10,
Sunday
Breakfast, lunch
Return flight from Panama City
Transfer to the international Airport Tocumen of Panama City, where our services end.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
All transfers and transportation during the roundtrip in comfortable vehicles with a/c and by boat
Panama: 1-4 Pax car, 5-9 Pax Hiace Bus, 10-12 Pax Coaster
Water transport as per description
Flight from Bocas del Toro to Panama City in torist class (without guide), including taxes and 20kg
luggage allowance
English-speaking guide during the roundtrip with the following exceptions: Day 1: no guide on Interbus
transfer from San José to La Fortuna. No guide during flight from Bocas del Toro to Panama City on day
8. Guides change per country.
Not included
Border fees CR-PAN, currently USD 3,- per person
Airport departure tax Panama approx. USD 40,- per person (normally included in the flight ticket)
Surcharge for complete Panama Channel crossing
Transfer in and pre-night, if desired (will be charged according to the manual of ARA Tours)
Transfer out on other departure days as the corresponding to this itinerary (will be charged according to
the manual of Gapa Travel)
Optional tours
Voluntary tips
Beverages
Additional meals
2
12
58
Important information:
The number of participants can be different in each country. This is a seat-in tour for the English-speaking
market.
Dates of operation roundtrip “Combination Costa Rica - Panama“
Beginning:
Friday in San José
Ending:
09.11.12 – 18.11.12
07.12.12 – 16.12.12
18.01.13 – 27.01.13
01.02.13 – 10.02.13
08.03.13 – 17.03.13
12.04.13 – 21.04.13
17.05.13 – 26.05.13
12.07.13 – 21.07.13
09.08.13 – 18.08.13
20.09.13 – 29.09.13
Complete Panama Channel Crossing
At the following dates the complete Panama Channel crossing will take place (subject to change). Each
Saturday the partial crossing of the channel takes place. Please indicate in your booking if clients would like
to do the partial or complete crossing.
Dates of the complete Panama Channel Crossing 2012 – 2013
03.11.12
17.11.12
01.12.12
15.12.12
05.01.13
12.01.13
19.01.13
02.02.13
09.02.13
16.02.13
02.03.13
09.03.13
16.03.13
06.04.13
20.04.13
04.05.13
18.05.13
01.06.13
15.06.13
06.07.13
20.07.13
03.08.13
17.08.13
07.09.13
21.09.13
05.10.13
19.10.13
Supplement for the complete Channel crossing USD 44,- per person.
Prices on Seat-In-Basis
Prices are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013.
Type of room
Price per person
In a double room
1‘785
In a single room
2‘095
In a triple room
1‘735
Prices on Private Basis
Type of room
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4-6 Pax
7-9 Pax
59
Double
-
2‗230
1‘855
1‘690
1‘530
Single
3‘745
2‘545
2‘170
2‘000
1‘845
Triple
-
-
1‘810
1‘640
1‘485
Additional reservations in Panama City:
Net-Price per person in US-Dollar, valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013
Seat-In basis
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
USD 34.00
USD 17.00
USD 15.00
USD 13.00
Private basis
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
USD 40.00
USD 20.00
USD 18.00
USD 15.00
Hotel Country Inn&Suites El Dorado **(*)
Location: Dthe hotel is situated 5 minutes from the national airport. To get to the international airport it takes
about 40 minutes.
Facilities: A restaurant, bar and a swimming pool is at your availability.
Rooms: The 84 rooms offer shower/WC, TV, telephone and air condition.
including breakfast (continental)
Single room, Jr. Suite
Double room, Jr. Suite
Single room, Standard
Double room, Standard
Triple room, Standard (2 Queens-beds)
Children: 0-10 years
USD 90.00
USD 45.00
USD 80.00
USD 40.00
USD 36.00
free of charge
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HIDDEN SECRETS OF CENTRAL AMERICA
Honduras – El Salvador – Nicaragua
19 Days / 18 Nights
On private basis only
Day 1,
Tuesday
Arrival San Pedro Sula (HONDURAS)
Arrival at San Pedro Sula International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Wednesday
None
Hotel Casa del Árbol ***(*) or similar
San Pedro Sula City Tour – Copan
After breakfast, we will depart for a city tour of the economic capital of the country and one
of the fastest growing cities in Central America. Our route will then lead westward to the
Honduran Highland of the Copan area.
The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the little village of Copan, noted for the excellent
hand-rolled cigars produced by Flor de Copán - available in the company‘s factory outlet.
Also for coffee lovers, you might want to visit Beneficio Maya, where fine coffee is grated
and roasted for export. Aside from being able to view the process, visitors can buy fresh
export grade coffee.
Note: Activities in Copan are not included in the price.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Thursday
Breakfast
Hotel Plaza Copan **(*) or similar
Copan – Copan Ruins – Macaw Mountain Bird Park & Nature Reserve – Copan
This morning will dedicate to visit of one of the most impressive Mayan ruins. Here we will
learn about the Mayan civilization and culture, their evolution, history, Mayan hieroglyphs
and monuments. The site of Copan was considered the capital of art and refinement for the
Mayan people. The museum of Mayan sculpture will also show us a lot from the preColumbian times.
In the afternoon we will drive to the Macaw Mountain Bird Park & Nature Reserve, only a
few minutes away from Copan. The park, U.S. design and attention to detail combined with
Honduras‘ natural beauty, creates an extraordinary experience in Central America. There
are many different activities to do in the park such as visit the natural coffee roasting house,
swim in the natural bathing pool and hike on different trails.
Return to Copan in the early evening.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Friday
Breakfast
Hotel Plaza Copan **(*) or similar
Copan – La Palma (EL SALVADOR) – San Salvador
Today you leave Honduras and head for El Salvador. Enjoy a scenic drive and a stop in the
village of La Palma, surrounded by verdant mountains and known for its famous handicraft
and paintings.
Arrival in San Salvador in the evening.
61
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5,
Saturday
Breakfast
Hotel Mariscal **(*) or similar
City Tour San Salvador – Puerto Libertad – Lago Coatepeque – Santa Ana
We will begin the day with the tour of San Salvador, the capital and business metropolis of
the country. We will also visit the most important monuments, such as the Metropolitan
Cathedral, Plaza Gerardo Barrios and La Puerta del Diabolo. One of the most recognizable
monuments in El Salvador is the Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo or ―Monument
to the Savior of the World‖.
Continuing on, we will drive to the Pacific Ocean, first to Puerto Libertad and along the
coast. We will have lunch at the edge of the crater lagoon of Coatepeque, a volcanic
lagoon, enjoying a delicious fish.
In the afternoon we will continue to Santa Ana, famous for its cathedral and theater.
Übernachtung:
Day 6,
Sunday
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel Tolteka ** or similar
Santa Ana – Tazumal – San Andres – Joya de Ceren – San Salvador – Managua
Today, after leaving Santa Ana, we will visit the most significant pre-Hispanic sites of El
Salvador, showing us the archeological evidence of the Olmec, Maya, Lenca and Pipil
cultural groups. First we will visit the ―Tazumal‖, the country‘s oldest settlement, then the
San Andres Park, a religious ceremonial center, and finish with the famous excavation of
―Joya de Cerén‖ - one of the most well preserved sites. Joya de Cerén is famous for its
archaeological sites, so here we will be sure to visit and see different places that contain
famous artifacts.
Drive to the airport for our flight to Managua. Arrival at Managua International Airport and
shuttle bus to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Monday
Breakfast
Hotel Camino Real **** or similar
over the hill and you can enjoy excellent views of the old and new Managua from here.
settled Leon Viejo in this ferocious land.
Then we will drive to the Pacific coast and embark a boat to visit the Reserve of Juan
Venado, famous for its mangroves and wildlife.
In Las Peñitas, on the way back to the cultural town Leon, we will admire a beautiful sunset
(if weather permits).
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Tuesday
Breakfast
Hotel Austria *** or similar
León City Tour – Cerro Negro Volcano – León
spectacular views of the city.
Then we will visit the archive-museum house of Ruben Dario as well as the art museum of
Ortiz-Gurdian Foundation which contains an impressive collection of European and Latin
American art. As we walk through the city we still can see some of the old murals
revolutionaries painted during the civil war.
62
In the afternoon we will travel 25 kilometers east from Leon driving by unique rural scenic
areas where traditional crops like cassava, sugar cane, peanuts, corn, amongst others are
grown.
Then we will reach the base of ―Cerro Negro‖, regarded as the youngest volcano in Central
America, formed in 1850. This fascinating hiking trail will take us to the summit of this ―black
hill‖ to enjoy an impressive view over the ―Maribios volcanic chain‖, constituted by the active
cones of San Cristobal and Telica.
After descending on the sandy slopes of the volcano we drive back to León.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 9,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Hotel Austria *** or similar
volcanic region where internal vents eject hot gasses, water and mud.
Afterwards we will drive from the volcanic fertile soils of the Nicaraguan pacific basin to the
north central region of Estelí, known for its top quality cigars. As we drive we will have the
chance to pass by tobacco fields and visit one of the many cigar factories in this area. Here
we will learn about the painstaking process of selecting the best tobacco leaves, drying,
rolling and packing.
Then we will drive back to the highlands of Matagalpa, also known as the coffee hub.
After checking into our rooms at Selva Negra Lodge, we will go for a nature walk into the
primary tropical forest to explore the lush vegetation and try to discover the elusive birdlife
of the region.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 10,
Thursday
Granada
cocoa bean, varieties, roasting, grinding and mixing.
Then we will drive from the highlands on the Pan-American Highway descending to the
landscapes, lava incandescence, bat caves, an absolutely wonderful experience. In the dark
we will drive to the town of Masaya and enjoy a folkloric event while we enjoy a typical
dinner. After this we will drive to the charming colonial city of Granada.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 11,
Friday
Breakfast
Selva Negra Lodge ** or similar
Breakfast, dinner
Hotel Patio del Malinche *** or similar
Isletas – Granada
Granada, displaying the most important pre-Hispanic totem collection in Nicaragua.
We will also visit the historical center of the city where we can see the Bishop Palace,
Afterwards we will head to Masaya‘s market where you can find a wide variety of fine quality
63
Before we get to our hotel we will embark on a natural excursion on the Lake Nicaragua - a
boat tour through some of the volcanic islands, popularly known as ―Las Isletas‖.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 12,
Saturday
Breakfast
Hotel Patio del Malinche *** or similar
Granada – San Jorge – Charco Verde – Playa Santo Domingo
sugarcane and rice fields, as well as banana plantations, papaya, water melon and passion
fruit.
Then we will reach the small town of San Jorge where we take the ferry to navigate on the
great Lake Nicaragua to the volcanic island of Ometepe. Departing from Moyogalpa, one of
the two main towns of the Island, we drive around the active volcano of Concepcion to visit
―Charco Verde‖, known for its dark green lake, lush surrounding vegetation, birdlife and
howler monkeys.
Then we will continue on to Playa Santo Domingo where we can relax at the end of the day
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 13,
Sunday
Breakfast
Hotel Villa Paraíso **(*) or similar
Playa Santo Domingo – Moyogalpa – San Jorge – San Juan del Sur
This morning we leave the hotel and drive back to Moyogalpa to take the ferry to San Jorge.
Back on the mainland, we will head further South on the Pan-American Highway to San
Juan del Sur, a famous vacation town for the Nicaraguans.
The afternoon is free at your disposal to stroll along the Malecon or have a swim in the bay.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 14,
Monday
Breakfast
Hotel Colonial ** or similar
San Juan del Sur – Jinotega
Today we head back to the north of the country, into the mountainous region of Nicaragua.
On this drive you will see as well as feel a completely different climate considering that this
drive is going from the beaches of San Juan all the way to the mountains of Jinotega. The
city of Jinotega is located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, in a valley surrounded by
spectacular mountains. This valley was already inhabited during pre-Columbian times by
different indigenous groups.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 15,
Tuesday
Breakfast
Hotel Café **(*) or similar
Jinotega – Lago Apanas – San Rafael del Norte – Las Manos (HONDURAS) – Valle de
Angeles
From Jinotega, we will drive further to the north, passing Lago de Apanas and San Rafael
del Norte before we reach the border town of Las Manos.
After fast immigration formalities, we will continue our drive through the mountains of
Honduras and reach the famous region of Valle de Angeles also called ―The Switzerland of
Honduras‖. Valle de Angeles is the best place in the area to buy souvenirs and craft items;
especially well-known for its woodwork.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 16,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Hotel Santa Lucía ** or similar
Valle de Angeles – Tegucigalpa – Comayagua – Lago Yojoa
After breakfast, we will drive to the capital city of Honduras - Tegucigalpa, where we will visit
its main attractions such as the center of town, which features fine churches and other
64
interesting buildings. The cathedral of St. Michael Archangel anchors the central park. The
Los Dolores church is the most beautiful; and the San Francisco church is the oldest
building of any type in the city, probably dating from 1590. Parque La Leona is a pleasant
park with a good view of downtown pedestrian street offers, cafes and people-watching.
From Tegucigalpa we drive to Comayagua which is the former capital of Honduras.
Here in Comayagua you can see the beautiful Comayagua Cathedral which has one of the
oldest clocks in the entire world. You can also enjoy famous attractions such as the Iglesia
la Merced, Museum of Religious Colonial Art and the Museum of Archaeology.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 17,
Thursday
Breakfast
Hotel Finca Las Glorias **(*) or similar
Lago Yojoa – Pulhapansak – Lancetilla Gardens –– Tela
We will leave the highland and drive to the Caribbean lowland. Before arriving in Tela, our
spot for the next two days, we will visit Lago Yojoa, which is the largest lake in Honduras.
Offering various activities from fishing to water sports, it is surrounded by Santa Barbara
and Cerro Azul mountains with chances for bird watching and hiking. After Lago Yojoa we
will see the beautiful natural Pulhapansak waterfall. Then continuing on is the Lancetilla
Gardens, the second largest tropical botanical garden in the world. Lancetilla Botanical
Garden boasts one of the most pre-eminent collections of fruit trees, flowering trees,
hardwoods, palms, bamboo and other assorted medicinal and poisonous plants in Latin
America with a collection of 1,000 tropical plants. Arrival in Tela where we will feel some
Caribbean atmosphere.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 18,
Friday
Breakfast
Hotel Cesar Mariscos **(*) or similar
Tela – National Park Punta Sal – Tela
We start by boat to the National Park Punta Sal, where we might see howler monkeys and
possibly dolphins on the way to the islands. There are various hikes that communicate
isolated beaches where you can snorkel in the crystal clear waters or relax in the white
sand. The biodiversity of the mangrove swamp gives you a peak of what a real paradise this
place is. There we will go on a walk into the forest and then have time to enjoy the beautiful
beaches. Return to Tela in the late afternoon.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 19,
Saturday
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel Cesar Mariscos **(*) or similar
Transfer to San Pedro Sula
In the morning transfer to the International Airport in San Pedro Sula for your flight back
home or to enjoy an extension on one of our island destinations.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
Island, where vehicles generally do not provide a/c) and by boat according to programme
Accommodation at the mentioned hotel categories in rooms with private bathrooms incl. taxes
Ferry tickets San Jorge – Moyogalpa – San Jorge
English-speaking tour guide from day 2 until day 18. No guide on the shuttle transfer upon arrival to
Managua on day 6. Tour guides change per country.
65
Flight San Salvador - Managua approx. USD 200,- per person (subject to change by the airline)
Info: You can also book this flight with a sales agent of Grupo Taca in your country, please book flight
TA315 19.35h-20.30h.
Airport taxes approx. USD 64,- per person (if not already included in the flight tickets)
Tourist card NIC, currently USD 10,- per person
Border fees approx. USD 10,- per person
Tips
Beverages
Additional meals
Dates of operation private roundtrip “Hidden Secrets of Central America“:
Beginning:
Tuesday in San Pedro Sula
Ending:
Saturday in San Pedro Sula
Rates are stated in USD net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013, except during
Christmas / New Year‘s period (23.12.12 – 06.01.13) and Holy week (24.03.13 – 01.04.13):
Type of room
1 pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4-5 Pax
6-8 Pax
9-12 Pax
In double
-
3‗030
2‗350
2‗135
1‗765
1‗640
In single
5‗260
3‗540
2‗860
2‗645
2‗275
2‗150
In triple
-
-
2‗215
2‗000
1‗630
1‗505
Information:
Please note that not all attractions are open every day. If you book a private tour that does not begin on
Tuesday, there may be changes in the program.
66
LOW BUDGET TRIP THROUGH CENTRAL AMERICA
Costa Rica – Nicaragua - Panama
14 Days / 13 Nights
Operated daily with a minimum of 2 participants
Day 1
Arrival in San José/COSTA RICA
Our airport guide will wait for you at the exit of the airport in San José. 30 minutes transfer
to San José downtown and check in at the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2
San José - Monteverde
You will be picked up at the hotel by Interbus, a collective bus service for tourists. Other
international tourists will travel with you on these transfers. You will drive on the
Panamerican Highway to San Ramón and Puntarenas, and then on a bumpy road up to
Monteverde, located at 1‘400 meters above sea level. The transfer will take about 4 hours.
Check-in at the hotel and rest of the day at leisure. Monteverde is well known for its cloud
forest reserve. In addition to that, many different activities are offered in this area today,
such as:
Entrance to Monteverde Reserve, approximately USD 18,- per person. Hikes of 1-3
hours are possible. Transfer from/to the hotel by taxi.
Selvatura - Nature & Adventure Park. Different attractions such as trails over
suspension bridges (approx. USD 25,-), canopy tour (approx. USD 45,-), a butterfly
garden (approx. USD 10,-), snake and frog museum (approx. USD 12,-). They also offer
English-guided hikes through the cloud forest (approx. USD 35,- per person). Transfer
from/to Selvatura USD 10,- per person.
Horseback riding (depending on duration approx. USD 40,- to 60,- per person)
Night tour with observation of animals (approx. USD 30,- per person)
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3
Breakfast
Cabañas Los Pinos **, Standard room, or similar
Monteverde
The whole day is at your leisure for optional excursions.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4
None
Hotel Villa Tournon *** or similar
Breakfast
Cabañas Los Pinos **, Standard room, or similar
Monteverde - Liberia - Peñas Blancas / NICARAGUA - Ometepe
We will pick you up by Interbus collective transportation and return to the Panamerican
Highway, on which we travel North via Cañas to Liberia, capital of Guanacaste province.
That‘s where the driver of ORO Travel will wait at approx. 11:30 to bring you to Peñas
Blancas, the border to Nicaragua. He will help you through the immigration process and you
will drive to San Jorge, where you take the ferry boat to Ometepe, a beautiful volcanic island
in the huge Lake Nicaragua. In Moyogalpa your private transportation will wait for you and
take you to Playa Santo Domingo, enjoying impressive views of the island´s two volcanoes
- Concepción and Maderas. It seems like time stands still on Ometepe Island. Excursions
can be booked at the reception of the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Breakfast
Hotel Villa Paraíso *(*), Cabañas, or similar
67
Day 5
Ometepe – San Jorge – Granada
You have the morning to yourself for any optional excursions you might like to book. Please
ask the reception for any tour (there are opportunities to hike, visit the refreshing natural
pool ‗Ojo del Agua‘ and much more).
In the afternoon we will pick you up at the hotel and take the ferry boat back to the
mainland. Your driver will be waiting for you for the transfer to the colonial city of Granada.
Enjoy the beautiful architecture and the excellent restaurants and nightlife hidden behind the
colonial facades of this romantic city.
Übernachtung:
Day 6
Granada
Who have the whole day to yourself to enjoy and explore the colonial town on your own or
with an optional tour. ORO Travel will be happy to assist you, the office is located in the
historical center of Granada.
We can suggest tours like the Granada City tour in a typical horse drawn carriage, a boat
tour of the ‗Isletas‘ or little islands on Lake Nicaragua, or even a tour to the stunning
Mombacho Volcano cloud forest.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7
Mawamba or Laguna Lodge *** or similar
Your local guide will take you in small boats through the narrow channels of Tortuguero
National Park. You can enjoy two boat trips. The first one takes place very early in the
morning, just after sunrise. We highly recommend participating in this excursion, because it
is the best time to observe animals such as crocodiles, turtles, iguanas, monkeys, sloths
and many different species of birds.
In the afternoon you have the opportunity to visit the small village of Tortuguero, or weather permitting – go on a hike through the rainforest.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 10
Breakfast
Hotel Villa Tournon *** or similar
San José - Tortuguero
An English-speaking guide will pick you up early in the morning and you will enjoy a ride
through Braulio Carillo National Park, one of the most impressive jungles in Costa Rica.
After approximately an hour, we will reach the village of Guápiles and enjoy a typical
breakfast in a nearby restaurant. Continuation via Siquirres to the area of La Pavona/Caño
Blanco, from where we continue by boat. Our way leads over channels and rivers to
Tortuguero, where we arrive around noon.
After lunch, you have the opportunity to join a first excursion to the area together with your
local guides. Between July and September you can book an optional night tour to watch the
sea turtles laying their eggs into the sand near the lodge (approx. USD 30,- per person).
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 9
Breakfast
Hotel La Pergola *(*) or similar
Granada – San José / COSTA RICA
You will be picked up in the hotel for a short ride to the bus terminal in Granada. From here,
you will take the public bus (Transnica, Ticabus) to San José, Costa Rica.
After arrival, take a taxi to the hotel (not included). The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Probably it will be too late to visit a museum, but there are several nice bars and restaurants
in the hotel area.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8
Breakfast
Hotel La Pergola *(*) or similar
Mawamba or Laguna Lodge *** or similar
Tortuguero – Sixaola/ Guabito (PANAMA) - Bocas del Toro
68
After breakfast we return to the area of La Pavona/Caño Blanco by boat, where our bus will
already wait for you for a direct transfer to Sixaola, the border village to Panama (arrival
approx. 1pm Costa Rica time).
After the immigration process on the Costa Rican side, you will cross an adventurous bridge
and a representative of Gapa Travel will wait for you on the Panama side of the border.
Continuation to Changuinola, where you will get on board of a taxi boat to Isla Colón, main
island of Bocas del Toro. The boat transfer is without guide. Check-in at the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 11
Bocas del Toro Islands
Today you will enjoy an excursion by boat to discover this beautiful world of islands. We first
drive to Laguna Bocatorito, where it is very usual to observe dolphins. We then continue to
Coral Key, an ideal place for snorkelling. The island also hosts a restaurant where you can
enjoy lunch (not included).
We end our day with a visit to Red Frog Beach, where you have enough time to enjoy the
sea and observe the red poison dart frogs. Return to your hotel on Colón Island.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 12
Breakfast
Hotel Centroamericano ** or similar
Panama City
The day is at your leisure for any optional tours you may like to book. Here are some ideas:
Excursion to Isla Taboga, approx. USD 27,- per person; incl. transport & boat ticket
Excursion by train to Colón, visit of Portobelo and return to Panama City, approx. USD
110,- per person, train ticket, entrance fee Portobelo and English-speaking driver
Emberá Indians; USD 124,- per person, full-day excursion including lunch and Englishspeaking guide
Panama City is also well known for excellent shopping.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 14
Breakfast
Hotel Laguna **(*) or similar
Bocas del Toro - Panama City - City Tour
We continue our journey through Central America by plane and reach Panama City after
just 1 hour. An English-speaking driver will take you on a city tour. He will show you the
ruins of the old city, destroyed in 1671 by the pirate Sir Henry Morgan. You will then see the
old part of the city with its cathedral and the national theatre. We end the sightseeing tour
with a visit of the Miraflores locks of the Panama channel, where you can observe the huge
cargo ships passing through. Return to the hotel.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 13
Breakfast
Hotel Laguna **(*) or similar
Breakfast
Hotel Centroamericano ** or similar
Transfer to the airport or additional program
Transfer to the international Airport of Panama City and end of our services. Of course you
can also extend your stay with an additional program.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included services
Transfers and transportation as per description, on seat-in basis most of the time
Ferry to / from Ometepe Island
Public bus (Transnica or Ticabus) from Granada/Nicaragua to San José/Costa Rica (quoted with USD
29,- per person; subject to change)
Flight Bocas del Toro - Panama City in tourist class (luggage limit 14 kg, any excess baggage has to be
paid upon check-in)
Accommodation at the mentioned hotel categories
69
English-speaking guide from day 8 to 10 in Tortuguero, English-speaking boat driver on day 11 in Bocas
del Toro and English-speaking driver on day 12 during the Panama City tour
Entrance fees for the included activities and visits
Travel documentation
Border fees upon entering and departing Nicaragua, currently USD 3,- per person per border-crossing
Border fees Costa Rica – Panama, currently USD 3,- per person
Airport departure tax Panama City, currently USD 40,- per person (generally already included in the flight
ticket)
Transfer out on other departure days as per this itinerary (will be charged according to the manual from
Gapa Travel)
Possible fuel surcharges
Tour guide (except see above)
Optional tours and activities
Voluntary tips
Meals and drinks not mentioned
Extras in the hotels
Participants
Minimum participants:
2
Important Information
This is a seat-in tour and it‘s possible that participants from other countries join this tour.
Dates of Departure for “Low Budget Trip through Central America”
The tour starts daily with a minimum of 2 participants. Most of the transportation is on seat-in basis.
Beginning of the tour:
End of the tour:
In San José/Costa Rica
In Panama City
Prices on Seat-in basis
Prices are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013.
Prices for Christmas (December 20th, 2012 to January 6th, 2013) and Semana Santa (March 24th to April
1st, 2013) upon request.
Type of Room
Price per person 2 pax
Price per person 3 pax
Double Room
1‘331
1‘286
Single Room
1‘685
1‘640
Triple Room
-
1‘149
Additional reservations for extension in Panama
Net-Price per person in US-Dollar, valid from 01.11.2012 to 31.10.2013:
Seat-In:
1 pax
2 pax
3 pax
USD 34.00
USD 17.00
USD 15.00
70
4 pax
USD 13.00
Privat:
1 pax
2 pax
3 pax
4 pax
USD 40.00
USD 20.00
USD 18.00
USD 15.00
Hotel Centroamericano **
Location: The hotel is located in Caledonia, the central district of town.
Facilities: The hotel´s own restaurant.
Rooms: The 61 rooms dispose of shower/toilet, TV, telephone, safe, Wifi and aircondition.
Prices including Continental Breakfast:
Single Room
Double Room
Triple Room
USD 58.00
USD 32.00
USD 28.00
71
HIKING TOUR PANAMA
Hiking Tour
01.11.2012-31.10.2013
Start Date: Sunday from / to Panama City
Tour is guaranteed from 2 person onwards
With English Speaking Tour Guide
8 Days / 7 Nights
st
1 Day, Sunday: Panama City / Transfer In
Individual arrival in Panama City. A driver will wait for you in the arrival hall and take you directly to the Hotel
Country Inn&Suites El Dorado.
Overnight in Hotel Country Inn&Suites El Dorado **(*), standard room
Included meals today: none
nd
2 Day, Monday: Panama City Tour
In the morning you will inspect this fascinating city which was built in 1519. The gorgeous view to the
skyscrapers, the noble mansions and the green hills will inspire you for more.
First you will visit the Metropolitan Nationalpark who is located very close from your Hotel. You will see on
the walk a lot of different birds. Afterwards you get to see Panama Vieja from the 16th Century. Then you will
go along the shore into the old part of the town called Casco Antigua. On foot you will see buildings from the
17th and 18th Century, the remarkable cathedral and the San José church with its splendorous altar.
The trip leads afterwards to the Causeway, from which you have a wonderful view of the skyline of Panama
City, to the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal. There you receive a good view, how the enormous ships
move in and out.
Included meals today: breakfast, lunch
rd
3 Day, Tuesday: Panamá City - Soberanía Nationalpark - Gatún-Lake - Panama City
In the morning you break up to the Soberanía Nationalpark. There you will walk for about 4-6 hours on the
―Pipeline Road‖. You will see in this time different flora and if you are lucky also different animals.
Afterwards we will drive to Gamboa where you will enjoy a boat ride on the Gatùn Lake for about three
hours. You will see some different animals and some vessels crossing the Panama Canal. Afterwards drive
back to Panama City.
Included meals today: breakfast, picknick-lunch
th
4 Day, Wednesday: Panama City - David - La Amistad - Volcán
Morning transfer to the national airport for an hour flight to David. Upon arrival you have a 90 minute transfer
to the National Park La Amistad. In the cloud forest you will enjoy a three hours walk whilst enjoying the
beautiful nature in all its forms. After the walk we will have lunch in the national park to continue with a visit
to the Orchid farm Finca Dracula where you can admire more than 2000 different orchid species. On the way
72
back to the hotel we will stop at the archeologist site of Barilles where you will see the artifacts they have
found here and learn about the culture of this historic site.
Overnight in Hotel Dos Rios **(*), standard room
th
5 Day, Thursday: Volcán
After breakfast we will drive to a volcanic hotsprings where you have the opportunity to have a soothing bath.
During the tour you will get to know a local Indian family and see how they live. In the afternoon we will take
you to a working coffee farm. A local guide will show you coffee plantation, harvest and processing of the
coffee bean. The tour will end with an extensive tasting of the coffee in the scenic coffee house.
Overnight in Hotel Dos Rios **(*), standard room
th
6 Day, Friday: Volcán - Cerro Punta - Boquete
In the morning you drive to Cerro Punta. From there you will start with your guide an approximate six hour
journey (12 km, more than 1000 altitude difference). On this hike you see the fantastic panorama of the
country, the flowers and the coffee plants, the wonderful mountains and many animals, especially with a little
bit luck the Quetzal bird with its long tail.
Overnight in Isla Verde Lodge ***
Included meals today: breakfast, picknick-lunch
th
7 Day, Saturday: Boquete - David - Panama City
With a guide you will have in the morning a 4 hours walk on this beautiful nature landscape. Afterwards you
will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon 1 hour transfer to David from where you take the plane to Panama City. After arrival transfer
to the Hotel Country Inn&Suites El Dorado.
th
8 Day, Sunday: Panama City / Transfer Out
During the day transfer to the International Airport Tocumen where our services end.
Included meals today: breakfast
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Included in the price:
Transfers and transport during the roundtrip in comfortable & airconditioned vehicles, boats as
described
Domestic flights in Economy class with luggage paid until 20kg
English speaking tour guide from day 2 until 7
7 overnights in middleclass hotels
Meals as mentioned
All entrance fees
Travelinformation
Excluded are:
Tips
Optional tours
Drinks with the meals
All meals not mentioned
73
Maximum participants:
2 persons
12 persons
Price on Seat-In-Basis
Prices are in US$ net per person, valid from 01.11.2012 – 31.10.2013:
Room Type
Double-Room
Single-Room
Triple-Room
Price per person
1.330,1.590,1.300,-
Price on Private-Basis
Prices are in US$ net per person, valid from 01.11.2012 – 31.10.2013:
Room Type
Double-Room
Single-Room
Triple-Room
2 - 3 Pax
1770.00
2030.00
1740.00
4 - 6 Pax
1380.00
1640.00
1350.00
7 - 9 Pax
1140.00
1400.00
1110.00
10 - 12 Pax
1030.00
1290.00
1000.00
Travel Dates 2012 / 2013 Season
11.11.12 – 18.11.12
09.12.12 – 16.12.12
06.01.13 – 13.01.13
10.02.13 – 17.02.13
10.03.13 – 17.03.13
07.04.13 – 14.04.13
14.07.13 – 21.07.13
11.08.13 – 18.08.13
Payment Terms:
Payments are due 10 days before arrival in Panama.
Cancelation Terms:
Upto 31 days before arrival:
30 – 21 days before arrival:
00 days or No Show:
no penalty
15%
30%
50%
75%
74
HIKING TOUR COSTA RICA
Discovering Costa
Rica
- guaranteed departure with a minimum of 2 persons, dates upon request
- guided in English and German language
- on seat-in basis
It smells like Humus on the shady jungle path. The crickets are staging a loud chirping concert, accompanied
by the exotic calls of a group of toucans sitting in the tree tops above us. There! A rustling in the
undergrowth betrays a family of coati-mundis scouring the ground for food. A barely audible roar reaches our
ears, getting louder with every step we take. Suddenly, we stumble upon a breathtaking waterfall in the
middle of the jungle. A refreshing dip in its crystal clear mountain water becomes the highlight of our day.
A little later, we reach a remote village where we join Don Octavio for a cup of coffee and stories about life in
the outback. In the evening, we look back on our eventful day while relaxing by the pool of our comfortable
hotel. We come to the conclusion that travelling on foot provides a much more intense experience of nature
and the local people than travelling by car or bus. The slowness allows for a view of the essential and
activates all senses. Come join us on our hiking tour through Costa Rica!
Day 1, Monday:
San José – Zarcero – Zapote Hiking – La Vieja – La Fortuna
Volcano
and Arenal
Reception by the tour guide and chauffeur at the city hotel. After breakfast, we head towards the coffee plantations on
the fertile slopes of the Poás Volcano, making a short stop in Zarcero to visit the artistically designed gardens of the town
church. Zarcero is located on the highest point of the mountain pass, between the central valley and the northern plains.
Only a few kilometers north of Zarcero, we start today‘s hike at 1‘520m altitude. A country lane takes us through
meadows and pastures and then 16km downhill through the jungle to the northern plains. The hike ends in the town of
La Vieja at an altitude of 300m. On our way, we discover numerous look-out points over the volcanic Cordillera Central
and the plains. Not surprisingly, the only town we encounter on our journey is named Buenavista (beautiful view). During
the hike, we gain insight into the rural life of the Ticos and have time to get used to the tropical climate. Near La Vieja, we
board our bus and drive to La Fortuna at the foot of the active volcano Arenal. Settling into rooms at hotel Arenal
Paraíso, where you may relax in the hotel‘s own hot springs in the evening. Dinner at the hotel‘s restaurant.
Included meals today: lunch and dinner
Overnight: Hotel Arenal Paraíso***(*) (superior)
Day 2, Tuesday:
Hiking to ¨Cerro Chato¨
Cerro Chato, also kindly known as the ¨ little brother ¨ from the Arenal Volcano is our destiny for today. We
begin our hike at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, a completely land of farm where you will learn more about
the agriculture and agricultural products of the region, such as macadamia nuts. Soon we will enter to the
exuberant forest and climb up to the top of Cerro Chato. Right at the top, if we get some luck with the
weather, we can see the crater and the lagoon from the Arenal. If the weather allows it, we will descend to
the shore of the lagoon. The descent will take part at the other side of the mountain through the forest where
you will see pasture land and lots of nature wonder sightseeing. Finally we will end our hiking in an
ornamental plants garden. The hiking from today is to see our nature wonders, lushly cloud forest,
agriculture and scenic beauty. Moreover, this hike demands physically condition since it takes around 6 km
to complete the trail.(around 4 to 5 hours). Afterwards, we pass by a local local restaurant at La Fortuna for
lunch (optional). Then, we will return back to the hotel and again you will have the opportunity to enjoy and
relax at the resort‘s hot springs.
Overnight: Hotel Arenal Paraíso***(*) (superior)
Included meals today: Breakfast
75
Day 3, Wednesday
Hike at Arenal Nationalpark – Bijagua
This morning we will hike at the Arenal Nationalpark, we will walk on the trails of ¨Las Coladas änd ¨La
Ceiba äround 2 to 3 hours. This hike maintains overall on a ground level where we will have the opportunity
to observe all diverse kind of flora and fauna (particularly heliconias) and also, tucans, monkeys and coatis.
Our journey through this magical and tropical forest will lead us to an impressive kapok tree which is over 50
meters long and more than 100 years old. Last but not least, we will visit a lava field from 1992 and if the
weather allows it we will have a spectacular view on lake Arenal. Afterwards, we will drive along the shore of
the lake and watch the beauty of the landscape in our surroundings. Now we can finally understand the
reasons why quite a lot of Europeans have come to live here... For lunch, we will visit the Swiss Franz Ulrich
in his Swiss Cottage and Restaurant ―Los Heroes‖, where a delicious lunch will be served. In the afternoon,
we will continue our journey towards the north to reach our final destination, Bijagua where the next cozy
hotel will be waiting for us.
Overnight: Tenorio Lodge***(*) (standard)
Included meals today: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4, Thursday:
Hike in Tenorio Nationalpark – Rio Celeste
Today‘s agenda features a very special highlight. Even though there are no changing rooms on location,
uncomplicated guests should be sure to take bathing suits and towels along. We will hike through the
Tenorio national park, in the midst of the Costa Rican jungle, along the banks of the extraordinary river Rio
Celeste, which is fed by the streams ‗Roble‘ and ‗Buena Vista‘. We will hike at a slower pace today because
our travel guide will give us a lot of interesting information about the jungle vegetation and point out some
animals. We will encounter many types of birds and maybe even monkeys, sloths, coati-mundis and
anteaters. Other jungle residents such as reptiles will be harder to come by, as they usually hide from hikers.
You don‘t need to be afraid of the animals, but a certain level of respect is appropriate. The Rio Celeste is
also quite spectacular. The meeting of two rivers colors the water a beautiful sky blue. The color contrast of
the water and the rich green of the jungle is a popular motive for photos. (…) The hike continues to an idyllic
waterfall (…). At the park‘s exit, the bus waits to take us back to Bijagua for the night.
Overnight: Tenorio Lodge*** (standard)
Included meals today: breakfast, boxlunch, dinner
Day 5, Friday: Bijagua – Aguas Claras – Hiking in Colonia Blanca – Hacienda Guachipelin
After breakfast we drive to Aguas Claras where we turn into an unpaved road that leads us to the village of
Colonia Blanca. Today‘s hike begins here at an altitude of 560 m. A country lane takes us past several
houses to the edge of the forest of the giant Rincón de la Vieja national park, which surrounds a volcano of
the same name. After lunch, we slowly hike up the hill through the forest to the Hacienda Santa María at
1‘000 m. This is the highest point of our journey. On our way, we have to cross several streams. Our alert
guide will be on the lookout for animals. The hike can be extended by up to 23km upon request. From the
Hacienda Santa María, we travel downhill to the lodge where we will spend the night.
Overnight: Hacienda Lodge Guachipelín**(*) (Superior room)
Included meals today: breakfast, boxlunch, dinner
Day 6, Saturday:
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
In the morning we will hike around 3 hours on the trail Las Pailas in Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Thanks
to the near volcano, we also will find volcanic activity in the middle of the jungle. Hot springs, geysirs and
boiling mud holes will convert our walk into the highlight of our roundtrip. During green season, we will also
pass by a clear waterfall. Return to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, we walk through Hacienda Guachipelin which is mostly covered by virgin forest. The trail
goes through a natural paradise, sometimes a little uphill and sometimes downhill again, without much effort
we will make it (in about 1 hour). Monkeys and various bird species can be watched from here. Nowadays,
we recommend you to bring a bathing suit to enjoy the aim of ¨ Las Chorreadas¨ waterfall, a well deserved
refreshment and relaxation. Later, we walk back to the Lodge. Dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Lodge Guachipelín**(*) Superior room
Included meals today: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7, Sunday: Rincón de la Vieja - San José
We end this roundtrip with the transfer back to San José. We will drop you off at the hotel of your choice or
at the airport, where you reach international flights with a scheduled departure up from 16h00. For an
additional charge we can also organize you a transfer to the Pacific coast. In case you continue your trip to
Nicaragua, Oro Travel will pick you up right in the hotel.
Included meals today: breakfast
76
Included Services Roundtrip Walking Tour
Transportation as per description by car, microbus or bus and by boat.
Overnights in the hotels mentioned above or in similar hotels, rooms with private bathroom.
Meals as per description.
1 non-alcoholic drink per included meal.
German and English speaking guide for the whole roundtrip.
All entrance fees and taxes (excluding departure tax, currently US$ 28.— per person)
Documentation with information about the country in English (the actual travel program has to be
provided by the travel agency).
Not included
Tips.
Alcoholic beverages with included meals.
Departure tax, currently US$ 28.— per person.
Departure dates with at least 2 pax:
12.11.12, 26.11.12, 10.12.12, 21.01.13, 18.02.13, 04.03.13, 13.05.13, 22.07.13, 05.08.13
Note:
In this tour there is a seat-of English and German-speaking guests. You can also travel along with other
participants.
Price per Person in US$:
01.11.12 – 31.10.13
1.390.-1.605.-1.355.--
In Double Room
In Single Room
In Tripple Room
Price on Private Basis in US$
01.11.12 – 31.10.13, Except for Christamas and New Year
21.12.12. - 01.01.13 und Easter von 24.03.13 - 31.03.13
In Double Room
In Single Room
In Tripple Room
1 Pax
3‘400.--
2 Pax
1‘865.-2‘145.--
3 or more pax
1‘450.-1‘725.-1‘385.--
Reduction for children under 12 years sharing room with parents:
50% in double room rate. Children will not count when calcutating the costs.
77
HIKING TOUR NICARAGUA
HIKING
Nicaragua Part
9 Days / 8 Nights
2013
Travel Program :
Day 1, Saturday : Transfer Managua Airport to Hotel
You are greeted in the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Accommodation at Hotel Camino Real****
Included meal today : none
Day 2, Sunday : Managua – San Jorge – Playa Santo Domingo
After breakfast, we will pick you up at your hotel and we will drive to the little port of San Jorge. From here you
will take the ferry and cross the lake. In Moyogalpa, the principal city of the island our local transportation will be
waiting for you and drive to Playa Santo Domingo, passing by the Legendary Charco Verde and colorful villages.
10 km – approx. 3 hours
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation:
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hotel Villa Paraiso, or similar)
Day 3, Monday : Playa Santo Domingo – Ojo de Agua – Moyogalpa – Nature Reserve Mombacho - Tepeyac –
Granada
In the early morning, we will hike towards to the island’s second volcano Concepcion and pass Ojo de Agua a
fresh pool of water in the middle of the island. A short drive takes us to the port of Moyogalpa for our ferry
back to the mainland. From there our transport will bring us up to the Nature reserve volcano Mombacho
1221 meters above sea level. From here we will start our visit through the cloud forest, learning about the
endemic vegetation of the area and will hike down through the tropical rainforest and coffee plantations. At a
pre-arranged pick up point in Tepeyac at the foot of Mombacho, we will meet our driver and continue the
short drive to the old colonial city Granada and our hotel for the night.
Included meals:
Breakfast, picnic lunch
Accommodation:
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Patio El Malinche, or similar)
Day 4, Tuesday : Granada – Masaya Volcano National Park – Chocoyero/El Brujo Natural Reserve – Granada
Today we will drive to the Volcano Masaya National Park. Arrival at the entrance, we start by taking a look at
the at visitor center where we will learn about volcanoes and seismology in Central America. From here, we
take the path to “Sendero Los Coyotes”, a 1.5 km trail where visitors can observe the moon-like lava
formations, craters and variety of wildlife that includes coyotes. With some luck you may also watch numerous
birds and even white faced Monkeys who live in the dry forest. We also take a walk on the trail “El Comalito”,
where a volcanic cove contains many fumaroles that emits vapor. After ending our tour in Masaya Volcano, we
78
will drive to the 184-acre nature reserve Chocoyero/El Brujo that lies westside of the Masaya volcano, between
Granada and Managua. Here, along with your local guide we go on different paths to explore the different
forests of the reserve with lusting flora and fauna. We admire the two waterfalls of the reserve and watch the
colorful green parakeets (Chocoyos) as they return in the evening to their nests (Not guarantee!). We return to
Granada in the evening.
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation:
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Patio El Malinche, or similar)
Day 5, Wednesday : Granada – Nature Reserve Montibelli
We start early and drive to the private nature reserve Montibelli situated between 360-750 meters above sea
level where we observe the abundant flora and fauna of the tropical dry forest with its many birds (among
them parrots, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, trogons, and also Nicaragua's national bird, the Turquoise-browed
Motmot), butterflies, other animals as well as the farming of shade grown coffee, lemons, pitahaya, plantains,
pineapples and flor de Jamaica ending the hike with superb view of the surroundings like Mombacho, Volcano
Masaya and the Nicaragua Lake. For lunch a freshly made local dish will be served at the Reserve.
7 km – approx. 3 hours (Paths Los Balcones + El Pochote + El Mirador)
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation:
Montibelli Reserve
Day 6, Thursday : Montibelli – Leon Viejo – Nature Reserve Las Pilas/El Hoyo – León
After our breakfast we will leave Montibelli for a visit to the nature reserve and rural community Las Pilas/El
Hoyo. One the way, we will have a stop in Leon Viejo, located on the foot of the Momotombo volcano and
testimony of the colonial history of the country. During our walk in the area, we will firsthand experience the
landscape shaped by volcanic activity, the rich nature and farming thriving in the volcanic soil enjoying the view
of the continent’s second youngest volcano Cerro Negro (the black hill) and finally passing by the Lagoon
Asososca. We will board our transport for the short journey to León and our hotel.
Approx. 10 km – approx. 4 hours – altitudes up to 1079 meters
Included meals:
Continental breakfast, lunch
Accommodation:
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hotel Los Balcones, or similar)
Day 7, Friday Leon – Nature Reserve El Arenal – Selva Negra
After breakfast we will drive to the Nature reserve El Arenal. Hiking through the Reserve we will observe its
beautiful forested mountains and diverse wildlife with spectacular views and diverse flora and fauna for example
monkeys and armadillos. Continuing to our next lodgings Selva Negra we follow a nature path. When arriving at
our hotel a late lunch will be served. The rest of the day it is possible to learn more about the activities of this
pioneer organic coffee, flower and livestock farm on a tour of the property. Depending on the season it will be
possible to follow the coffee processing.
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation:
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hotel Selva Negra, or similar)
Day 8, Saturday
Selva Negra – Matagalpa - Managua
We leave Selva Negra in the morning and pass through the cloud forest and coffee bushes observing the varied
vegetation and bird life. The hike ends at the side of the road Matagalpa-El Tuma. By car we travel downwards
to the valley and city of Matagalpa for a lunch stop. There will be time for a short sightseeing before the journey
to the capital Managua and our hotel close to the airport.
7 km – approx. 1 ½ hours
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation:
First Class Hotel**** (Hotel Camino Real, or similar)
Day 9 Sunday : Managua – Managua Airport
At a prearranged hour we leave the hotel with the shuttle bus to the airport to board our flight. Optional tour for
those who have a late flight : City Tour Managua + hike peninsula Chiltepe (Not included)
Included meals:
Buffet breakfast
Accommodation:
None
79
Included services
Transfers and transportation in comfortable vehicles with A/C or by boat, as per description.
2-3 Pax in Minibus, 4-7/8 Pax in Hiace type for 16 passengers, 8/9-13/14 Pax in County type for 19
passengers. Note: On Ometepe island, most vehicles do not offer A/C.
Overnights in the mentioned hotel categories in standard rooms with shower/toilet and local taxes
Meals as per description .
English speaking tour guide in Nicaragua from Day 7 to Day 13 (from Peñas Blancas to Managua)
Entrance fees for the mentioned excursions and activities
Travel documentation with useful information (the actual travel program has to be provided by the tour
operator)
Voluntary tips
Personal expenses
Optional excursions
Flights
Border fees at Peñas Blancas (Currently US$ 6.- per person)
Tourist card entering at entering Nicaragua (Currently US$ 10.- per person)
2 persons
12 persons
Operation dates Hiking Tour Nicaragua
Beginning:
Saturday in Managua
Ending:
Sunday in Managua
17.11.2012 – 25.11.2012
01.12.2012 – 09.12.2012
15.12.2012 – 23.12.2012
26.01.2013 – 03.02.2013
23.02.2013 – 03.03.2013
09.03.2013 – 17.03.2013
20.04.2013 – 28.04.2013
27.07.2013 – 04.08.2013
10.08.2013 – 18.08.2013
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013
Room type
Rate per person
Double
795.00
Single
1,020.00
Triple
750.00
80
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013*:
Room type
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 - 6 Pax
7 - 9 Pax
10 - 12 Pax
Double
1,215.00
985.00
920.00
755.00
730.00
Single
1,440.00
1,210.00
1,145.00
980.00
955.00
Triple
-
940.00
875.00
710.00
685.00
*
Prices for Christmas (December 20th, 2012 to January 5th, 2013) and Semana Santa (March 24th, 2013 to
March 31st, 2013) upon request.
81
HIKING TOUR CENTRAL AMERICA
COMBINATION COSTA RICA – NICARAGUA
Costa Rica - Nicaragua
14 Days / 13 Nights
With English speaking tour guide
Operation guaranteed with a minimum of 2 pax
It smells like Humus on the shady jungle path. The crickets are staging a loud chirping concert, accompanied
by the exotic calls of a group of toucans sitting in the tree tops above us. There! A rustling in the
undergrowth betrays a family of coati-mundis scouring the ground for food. A barely audible roar reaches our
ears, getting louder with every step we take. Suddenly, we stumble upon a breathtaking waterfall in the
middle of the jungle. A refreshing dip in its crystal clear mountain water becomes the highlight of our day.
A little later, we reach a remote village where we join Don Octavio for a cup of coffee and stories about life in
the outback. In the evening, we look back on our eventful day while relaxing by the pool of our comfortable
hotel. We come to the conclusion that travelling on foot provides a much more intense experience of nature
and the local people than travelling by car or bus. The slowness allows for a view of the essential and
activates all senses. Come join us on our hiking tour through Costa Rica!
Nicaragua, in terms of biodiversity and natural richness is still an undiscovered jewel. With this hike itinerary,
we will bring you through the different climate zones of the country and let you experience the ancient history
and the colonial heritage of the region. Our program will bring us by volcanoes, through many traditional
villages, walking into a colonial scenery, enjoy the hospitality of the Nicaraguan people, learn about the
culture and the social life. Our walking tour will give many opportunities to absorb the multiple facets of the
country at our own pace.
Day 1,
Monday
San José – Zarcero – Zapote Hike – La Vieja – La Fortuna/Arenal Vulkan
Reception by the tour guide and driver in the city hotel. After breakfast, we head towards the
coffee plantations on the fertile slopes of the Poás volcano, making a short stop in Zarcero
to visit the artistically designed gardens of the town church. Zarcero is located on the
highest point of the mountain pass, between the central valley and the northern plains. Only
a few kilometers north of Zarcero, we start today‘s hike at 1‘520m altitude. A country lane
takes us through meadows and pastures and then 16km downhill through the jungle to the
northern plains. The hike ends in the town of La Vieja at an altitude of 300m. On our way,
we discover numerous look-out points over the volcanic Cordillera Central and the plains.
Not surprisingly, the only village we encounter on our journey is named Buenavista
(beautiful view). During the hike, we gain insight into the rural life of the Ticos and have time
to get used to the tropical climate. Near La Vieja, we board our bus and drive back to La
Fortuna at the foot of the active volcano Arenal. Settling into rooms at hotel Arenal Paraíso,
where you may relax in the hotel‘s own hot springs in the evening. Dinner at the hotel‘s
restaurant.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 2,
Tuesday
lunch, dinner
Comfort Class Hotel***(Hotel Arenal Paraíso, Superior or
similar)
Hiking to ¨Cerro Chato¨
Cerro Chato, also kindly known as the ¨ little brother ¨ from the Arenal Volcano is our destiny
for today. We begin our hike at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, a completely land of farm
where you will learn more about the agriculture and agricultural products of the region, such
as macadamia nuts. Soon we will enter to the exuberant forest and climb up to the top of
Cerro Chato. Right at the top, if we get some luck with the weather, we can see the crater
and the lagoon from the Arenal. If the weather allows it, we will descend to the shore of the
lagoon. The descent will take part at the other side of the mountain through the forest where
82
you will see pasture land and lots of nature wonder sightseeing. Finally we will end our
hiking in an ornamental plants garden. The hiking from today is to see our nature wonders,
lushly cloud forest, agriculture and scenic beauty. Moreover, this hike demands physically
condition since it takes around 6 km to complete the trail.(around 4 to 5 hours). Afterwards,
we pass by a local local restaurant at La Fortuna for lunch (optional). Then, we will return
back to the hotel and again you will have the opportunity to enjoy and relax at the resort‘s
hot springs.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 3,
Wednesday
Breakfast
Comfort Class Hotel***(Hotel Arenal Paraíso, Superior or
similar)
Hike at Arenal Nationalpark – Bijagua
This morning we will hike at the Arenal Nationalpark, we will walk on the trails of ¨Las
Coladas änd ¨La Ceiba äround 2 to 3 hours. This hike maintains overall on a ground level
where we will have the opportunity to observe all diverse kind of flora and fauna (particularly
heliconias) and also, tucans, monkeys and coatis. Our journey through this magical and
tropical forest will lead us to an impressive kapok tree which is over 50 meters long and
more than 100 years old. Last but not least, we will visit a lava field from 1992 and if the
weather allows it we will have a spectacular view on lake Arenal. Afterwards, we will drive
along the shore of the lake and watch the beauty of the landscape in our surroundings. Now
we can finally understand the reasons why quite a lot of Europeans have come to live
here... For lunch, we will visit the Swiss Franz Ulrich in his Swiss Cottage and Restaurant
―Los Heroes‖, where a delicious lunch will be served. In the afternoon, we will continue our
journey towards the north to reach our final destination, Bijagua where the next cozy hotel
will be waiting for us.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 4,
Thursday
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Tenorio Lodge or similar)
Hike Tenorio Nationalpark – Rio Celeste
Today‘s agenda features a very special highlight. Even though there are no changing rooms
on location, uncomplicated guests should be sure to take bathing suits and towels along.
We will hike through the Tenorio national park, in the midst of the Costa Rican jungle, along
the banks of the extraordinary river Rio Celeste, which is fed by the streams ‗Roble‘ and
‗Buena Vista‘. We will hike at a slower pace today because our travel guide will give us a lot
of interesting information about the jungle vegetation and point out some animals. We will
encounter many types of birds and maybe even monkeys, sloths, coati-mundis and
anteaters. Other jungle residents such as reptiles will be harder to come by, as they usually
hide from hikers. You don‘t need to be afraid of the animals, but a certain level of respect is
appropriate. The Rio Celeste is also quite spectacular. The meeting of two rivers colors the
water a beautiful sky blue. The color contrast of the water and the rich green of the jungle is
a popular motif for photos. (…) The hike continues to an idyllic waterfall. (…) At the park‘s
exit, the bus waits to take us back to Bijagua for the night.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 5, Friday
Breakfast, boxlunch, dinner
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Tenorio Lodge or similar)
Bijagua – Aguas Claras – Hiking in Colonia Blanca – Hacienda Guachipelin
After breakfast we drive to Aguas Claras where we turn into an unpaved road that leads us
to the village of Colonia Blanca. Today‘s hike begins here at an altitude of 560m. A country
lane takes us past several houses to the edge of the forest of the giant Rincón de la Vieja
national park, which surrounds a volcano of the same name. After lunch, we hike slowly
uphill through the forest to the Hacienda Santa María at 1‘000m. This is the highest point of
our journey. On our way, we have to cross several streams. Our alert guide will be on the
lookout for animals. The hike can be extended by up to 23km upon request. From the
Hacienda Santa María, we travel downhill to the lodge where we will spend the night.
83
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 6,
Saturday
Breakfast, boxlunch, dinner
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hacienda Logde Guachipelin,
Superior rooms with A/C, or similar)
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
In the morning we will hike around 3 hours on the trail Las Pailas in Rincon de la Vieja
National Park. Thanks to the near volcano, we also will find volcanic activity in the middle of
the jungle. Hot springs, geysirs and boiling mud holes will convert our walk into the highlight
of our roundtrip. During green season, we will also pass by a clear waterfall. Return to the
lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, we walk through Hacienda Guachipelin which is mostly covered by virgin
forest. The trail goes through a natural paradise, sometimes a little uphill and sometimes
downhill again, without much effort we will make it (in about 1 hour). Monkeys and various
bird species can be watched from here. Nowadays, we recommend you to bring a bathing
suit to enjoy the aim of ¨ Las Chorreadas¨ waterfall, a well deserved refreshment and
relaxation. Later, we walk back to the Lodge. Dinner and overnight.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 7,
Sunday
Rincón de la Vieja – Peñas Blancas – Sapoa – San Ramon Waterfall - Playa Santo
Domingo
ORO Travel will pick you up at Hotel and drive to the border with Nicaragua. . After short
immigration formalities, we will drive to the little port of San Jorge. From here you will take
the ferry and cross the lake. In Moyogalpa, the principal city of the island our local
transportation will be waiting for you and drive to Playa Santo Domingo, passing by the
Legendary Charco Verde and colorful villages.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 8,
Monday
Breakfast, lunch
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hotel Villa Paraiso, or similar)
Playa Santo Domingo – Ojo de Agua – Moyogalpa – Nature Reserve Mombacho Tepeyac – Granada
In the early morning, we will hike towards to the island‘s second volcano Concepcion and
pass Ojo de Agua a fresh pool of water in the middle of the island. A short drive takes us to
the port of Moyogalpa for our ferry back to the mainland. From there our transport will bring
us up to the Nature reserve volcano Mombacho 1221 meters above sea level. From here
we will start our visit through the cloud forest, learning about the endemic vegetation of the
area and will hike down through the tropical rainforest and coffee plantations. At a prearranged pick up point in Tepeyac at the foot of Mombacho, we will meet our driver and
continue the short drive to the old colonial city Granada and our hotel for the night.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 9,
Tuesday
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hacienda Logde Guachipelin,
Superior rooms with A/C, or similar)
Breakfast, picnic lunch
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Patio El Malinche, or
similar)
Granada – Masaya Volcano National Park – Chocoyero/El Brujo Natural Reserve –
Granada
Today we will drive to the Volcano Masaya National Park. Arrival at the entrance, we
start by taking a look at the at visitor center where we will learn about volcanoes and
seismology in Central America. From here, we take the path to ―Sendero Los Coyotes‖, a
1.5 km trail where visitors can observe the moon-like lava formations, craters and variety
of wildlife that includes coyotes. With some luck you may also watch numerous birds and
even white faced Monkeys who live in the dry forest. We also take a walk on the trail ―El
Comalito‖, where a volcanic cove contains many fumaroles that emits vapor. After
ending our tour in Masaya Volcano, we will drive to the 184-acre nature reserve
Chocoyero/El Brujo that lies westside of the Masaya volcano, between Granada and
84
Managua. Here, along with your local guide we go on different paths to explore the
different forests of the reserve with lusting flora and fauna. We admire the two waterfalls
of the reserve and watch the colorful green parakeets (Chocoyos) as they return in the
evening to their nests (Not guarantee!). We return to Granada in the evening.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 10,
Wednesday
Breakfast, lunch
Comfort Class Hotel*** (Hotel Patio El Malinche, or
similar)
Granada – Nature Reserve Montibelli
We start early and drive to the private nature reserve Montibelli situated between 360-750
meters above sea level where we observe the abundant flora and fauna of the tropical dry
forest with its many birds (among them parrots, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, trogons, and
also Nicaragua's national bird, the Turquoise-browed Motmot), butterflies, other animals as
well as the farming of shade grown coffee, lemons, pitahaya, plantains, pineapples and flor
de Jamaica ending the hike with superb view of the surroundings like Mombacho, Volcano
Masaya and the Nicaragua Lake. For lunch a freshly made local dish will be served at the
Reserve.
7 km – approx. 3 hours (Paths Los Balcones + El Pochote + El Mirador)
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 11,
Thursday
Continental breakfast, lunch, dinner
Montibelli Reserve
Montibelli – Leon Viejo – Nature Reserve Las Pilas/El Hoyo – León
After our breakfast we will leave Montibelli for a visit to the nature reserve and rural
community Las Pilas/El Hoyo. One the way, we will have a stop in Leon Viejo, located on
the foot of the Momotombo volcano and testimony of the colonial history of the country.
During our walk in the area, we will firsthand experience the landscape shaped by volcanic
activity, the rich nature and farming thriving in the volcanic soil enjoying the view of the
continent‘s second youngest volcano Cerro Negro (the black hill) and finally passing by the
Lagoon Asososca. We will board our transport for the short journey to León and our hotel.
Approx. 10 km – approx. 4 hours – altitudes up to 1079 meters
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 12,
Friday
Continental breakfast, lunch
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hotel Los Balcones, or similar)
Leon – Nature Reserve El Arenal – Selva Negra
After breakfast we will drive to the Nature reserve El Arenal. Hiking through the Reserve we
will observe its beautiful forested mountains and diverse wildlife with spectacular views and
diverse flora and fauna for example monkeys and armadillos. Continuing to our next
lodgings Selva Negra we follow a nature path. When arriving at our hotel a late lunch will
be served. The rest of the day it is possible to learn more about the activities of this pioneer
organic coffee, flower and livestock farm on a tour of the property. Depending on the
season it will be possible to follow the coffee processing.
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 13,
Saturday
Breakfast, lunch
Standard Class Hotel**(*) (Hotel Selva Negra, or similar)
Selva Negra – Matagalpa - Managua
We leave Selva Negra in the morning and pass through the cloud forest and coffee bushes
observing the varied vegetation and bird life. The hike ends at the side of the road
Matagalpa-El Tuma. By car we travel downwards to the valley and city of Matagalpa for a
lunch stop. There will be time for a short sightseeing before the journey to the capital
Managua and our hotel close to the airport.
7 km – approx. 1 ½ hours
85
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Day 14,
Sunday
Breakfast, lunch
First Class Hotel**** (Hotel Camino Real, or similar)
Managua – Managua Airport
At the a prearranged hour we leave the hotel and drive to the airport to board our flight.
Options for those who have a late flight : City Tour Managua + hike peninsula Chiltepe
Included meals:
Accommodation:
Buffet breakfast
None
Included services
Transfers and transportation in comfortable vehicles with A/C or by boat, as per description.
CR: 1-6 pax minibus with 12 seats, 7-15 pax bus with 19-22 seats
NIC: 2-3 Pax in Minibus, 4-7/8 Pax in Hiace type for 16 passengers, 8/9-13/14 Pax in Sprinter type for 19
passengers. Note: On Ometepe island, most vehicles do not offer A/C.
Overnights in the mentioned hotel categories in standard rooms with shower/toilet and local taxes
Meals as per description (in CR incl. 1 non-alcoholic, typical dring (mostly a fruit juice). Additionally, in
CR snacks, fruits and refreshments during the day; drinks during the hikes)
English and/or German speaking tour guide in Costa Rica; English speaking tour guide in Nicaragua.
Tour guides change per country.
Entrance fees for the mentioned excursions and activities
Travel documentation with useful information (the actual travel program has to be provided by the tour
operator)
Voluntary tips
Personal expenses
Optional excursions
Flights
Border fees CR-NIC, currently USD 3 per person
Tourist card entering NIC, currently USD 10 per person
Airport tax MGA, currently USD 35 per person (generally already included in the flight ticket)
2 persons
12 persons
Operation dates Hiking Tour Central America / Combination Costa Rica – Nicaragua
Beginning:
Monday in San José
Ending:
Sunday in Managua
12.11.12 – 25.11.12
26.11.12 – 09.12.12
10.12.12 – 23.12.12
21.01.13 – 03.02.13
18.02.13 – 03.03.13
04.03.13 – 17.03.13
15.04.12 – 28.04.13
86
22.07.13 – 04.08.13
05.08.13 – 18.08.13
Room type
Rate per person
In a double room
2‗170
In a single room
2‗575
In a triple room
2‗100
Rates are stated in US$ net per person and are valid from 01.11.2012 until 31.10.2013, except during
Christmas / New Year (23.12.12 – 02.01.13) or Easter Week (24.03.13 – 01.04.13).
Room type
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 - 6 Pax
In a double room
3‗060
2‗415
2‗345
In a single room
3‗530
2‗880
2‗810
In a triple room
-
2‗315
2‗245
87
HIKING TOUR MEXIKO
4 Tages-Wanderung Pueblos Mancomunados
Sierra Norte, Oaxaca
Reisebeschreibung
Die Pueblos Mancomunados,
bestehend aus 8 Dörfern, die gemeinsam 29‘000 Hektar Bergland und Wald besitzen bieten die
einmalige Gelegenheit Natur und ruralen Alltag in Südmexico zu erleben.
Die Gemeinden liegen knapp 60 km nordöstlich von der Stadt Oaxaca (ca. 1-2 Stunden Fahrzeit).
Die Bewohner der Sierra Norte nennen sich selber das Volk der Wolken und es gibt wohl kaum eine
passendere Bezeichnung. Hier auf über 3000m Höhe, hoch über den heißen und trockenen Zentraltälern
Oaxacas befindet sich eine einzigartige Welt und ein Ökosystem das seinesgleichen sucht.
Von neun existierenden Vegetationstypen in Mexiko findet man sieben in dieser Region. Mehr als 400
Vogelarten, 350 Schmetterlingsarten und viele vom Aussterben bedrohte Säugetierarten, wie dem
Jaguar, Tapir oder Spinnenaffe haben hier ihr zu Hause. Die Pinien-Eichenmischwälder wurden vom
WWF als eine der reichsten und vielfältigsten der Erde qualifiziert und sie gehören, mit einem Alter von
mehr als zwanzig Millionen Jahren, zu einem der ältesten noch existierenden Ökosystemen der Welt.
Die zapotekischen Bewohner dieser Region leben von ihren Wäldern und ihren Bodenschätzen. 1998
wurde ein ökotouristisches Projekt ins Leben gerufen, das vor allem den Erhalt diese Natursystems
gewährleisten soll - Expediciones Sierra Norte A.C. Es wurde eine kleine touristische Infrastruktur
geschaffen und die Dörfer selbst (los pueblos mancomunados) organisieren die angebotenen Touren.
So werden wir während unseres Trekkings immer von einem Dorfmitglied begleitet und von ihm vieles
über Pflanzen und Tiere und deren Nutzung lernen.
Unsere Tagesetappen beschränken sich auf 5 Std. Wanderzeit täglich, so bleibt immer noch genug Zeit
um Einblicke in das Dorfleben zu bekommen oder Gespräche mit den Einheimischen zu führen. Die
Übernachtungen finden in den einfachen Gästehäusern der Dörfer statt.
Frühstück, Mittagessen und Abendessen gibt es im jeweiligen Comedor (dörfliches Restaurant) des
Dorfes.
Ihr Gepäck wird von unserem Kleinbus transportiert, der uns von Ort zu Ort begleitet. Die Dörfer sind
über Funk miteinander verbunden, unser Bergführer steht mit ihnen über Funkgerät in ständigem
Kontakt.
Wandern Sie mit uns über den Wolken.....
88
Reisedetails
Tag 1 (Die Fahrzeit von Oaxaca Stadt beträgt ca. 2 Std.)
Wir beginnen unsere Tour in Llano Grande.
Die erste Wanderung durch den Wolkenwald dauert ca. 4 Stunden, ist jedoch nicht sehr anstrengend. Sie
führt uns zum höchsten Punkt der Pueblos Mancomunados (Piedra Larga auf 3300 m). Von diesem
wundervollen Aussichtspunkt gehen wir weiter zu einer prehispanischen, noch immer genutzten
Opferstätte der Zapoteken. Der Rundweg führt uns zurück ins Dorf wo wir, im brandneuen Restaurant der
100 Seelen Gemeinde, von Kata und Clemencia bekocht werden.
Tag 2
Wir wandern heute durch die Schlucht der ―Cueva de la iglesia‖ zum Nachbardorf Cuajimoloyas. Dieser
Canyon diente, während der mexikanischen Revolution, als Unterschlupf für „Banditos und Pistoleros―
und man sagt, dass hier noch immer Schätze vergraben liegen. Die Wanderung dauert ca. 5 Stunden, ist
jedoch anspruchsvoller als die des Vortages. Wir übernachten in Cuajimoloyas, wo wir zum letzten Mal
die Aussicht von ―ganz oben‖ geniessen, denn am nächsten Tag geht es abwärts.
Tag 3
Die dritte Etappe endet auf der, fast 1200m tiefer gelegenen, Forellenfarm von Latuvi, wo wir zu Mittag
essen. Auf dem Weg zu ―La Cucharilla‖ (weiterer Aussichtspunkt) ändert sich die Vegetation von Pinien
zu Eichenwald. Am ―Wendepunkt‖ treten schlagartig verschiedenste, exotische Gewächse wie Bromelien,
Erdbeerbäume und die palmartigen Cucharilla-Bäume auf. Wanderzeit ca. 5 ½ Stunden, mitunter sehr
steil. Wir übernachten in den Gästehäusern des Dorfes. Die Unterkünfte liegen in einer dramatischen
Gebirgskulisse.
Tag 4
Von Latuvi aus wandern wir auf einem der prähispanischen Handelspfade, die einst das gesamte Land
durchzogen, nach Amatlan. Der ―Camino Real‖ reichte von Veracruz an der Golfküste, über das
Zentraltal Oaxacas mit dem Handelszentrum Monte Alban, bis hin zur Pazifikküste. Teile dieses Pfades
sind noch immer begehbar, wie unsere heutige Tagesetappe. Der Weg bietet spektakuläre
Vegetationsphänomene wie das hängende Moos, welche die Umgebung in einen wahren ―Märchenwald‖
verwandelt. Wanderzeit ca. 5 Std., 12km Strecke. Wir essen ―Comida corrida‖ in Amatlan, einem der 2
Urdörfer, aus denen die gesamte Bevölkerung der ―Pueblos Mancomunados‖ stammt. Nach unserem
späten Mittagessen fahren wir zurück nach Oaxaca Stadt. Die Fahrzeit beträgt ca. 2 Std.
Netto-Preis pro Person in US Dollars 2012 / 2013
Gültig von 01.11.2012 – 31.10.2013
Teilnehmerzahl: 2 – 12 Personen, min. 2 Personen
4er Cabaña
2er Cabaña
Einzelcabaña
Es stehen nur 6 Einzelcabañas zur Verfügung
Inbegriffen
Nicht inbegriffen
Privattransport von Oaxaca Stadt und zurück (Der
Van fährt von Dorf zu Dorf, man muss nur einen
Tagesrucksack tragen)
Alkoholische Getränke
Eintrittsgebühr in die Dörfer
Alle nicht erwähnten Mahlzeiten
deutschsprachige Reiseleitung
Trinkgeld für Reiseleitung und Fahrer
415.00 USD
462.00 USD
499.00 USD
lokaler Führer
Snacks während der Wanderung
Vollpension
3 Übernachtungen in den Pueblos Mancomunados
Abfahrtsdaten 2012 / 2013
Abfahrten täglich
89
COSTA RICA & NICARAGUA
FLEXIVOUCHER PROGRAM
The Costa Rica & Nicaragua FlexiVoucher Program gives you the possibility to discover both Costa Rica
and Nicaragua within one vacation trip.
Whether traditional towns, mountainous regions, beaches, historical colonial cities, nature reserves or
national parks – you will have the opportunity to design your own personal itinerary according to your taste.
Get immersed into the daily life of two different neighbouring countries and feel their hospitality from the first
to the last day. You will pick up your vehicle in San José and will enjoy the diversity of various regions on
your way to Managua, giving you the chance to get to know the culture and traditions of both countries.
On the day of arrival a representative of the Costa Rican Tourism Association CANATUR will be waiting for
you right after immigration. During the transfer to your hotel in San José you will be given your travel
documents, road map and FlexiVouchers for Costa Rica. Your rental car will be delivered to your hotel the
next morning. You will have the choice to stay at over 140 hotels in Costa Rica and between 20 to 30 hotels
in Nicaragua.
You drop off your Costarrican rental car at the car rental‘s office at Liberia, where a representative of ORO
Travel picks you up for a transfer to the border of Peñas Blancas. There, you take over your Nicaraguan
rental car including the travel documentation and the FlexiVouchers to continue your trip.
On the last day you will return the vehicle at Managua International Airport. You also have the possibility to
book an additional transfer from Managua to San José or Liberia at a special price, if your flight leaves from
Costa Rica.
Day 1
Arrival at San José – Transfer to city hotel
Arrival at the International Airport Juan Santamaría in San José. We will organize for you an
assistance that will be inside the airport waiting for you and helping you through baggage claim
and customs. Outside the Airport a representative of Ara Tours will be waiting to transfer you to
a comfort class city hotel in San José. This transfer might take around 30 minutes. While you
are on the bus, you will receive the flexi Voucher documentation and some explanations on the
program. Our airport guid will also assist you during check-in.
Comfort Class Hotel *** San José
Day 2
Pick your Rental Car – Begin of you Trip
After breakfast a representative from our Rent a Car partner ADOBE will deliver your rental car
at your city hotel. In order to pick up the car you will need the following documentation: a
passport (with the entrance stamp to the country on it), a credit card and a drivers‘ license. An
international drivers‘ license is not required. You will also be given a cell phone or SIM card to
check availability at the FlexiVoucher hotels before arrival. At this point, you can choose which
route you take. You have the option to choose over 140 hotels throughout the country.
Flexi Voucher Hotel, Standard
Day 3 - 7
Individual itinerary with FlexiVoucher
Day 8
Drop off the vehicle in Adobe Rent a Car in Liberia
Around 9.30 am you should drop off the car at the ADOBE Rent a Car office in Liberia. At 10.00
am a representative of our partner agency ORO Travel will pick you up at the office and take
you to the border of Peñas Blancas (transfer takes about 1 hour), from where you will pick up
your next car - a Toyota Prado or similar - in order to continue your program in Nicaragua,
having a choice of 20 to 30 hotels in Nicaragua.
90
Day
9 - 14
Day 15
FlexiVoucher Hotel– Airport Managua
Today you will return your rental vehicle at the airport in Managua, from where you will take your
flight back home (if you have a return flight from Costa Rica, please see below for the transfer
rates to Liberia or San José).
Included services
In CR: Rental Car category SUV intermediate 2WD, Hyundai Tucson or similar from ADOBE Rent a
Car. The car will be delivered on day 2 at the city hotel in San José and has to be returned on day 8
in Liberia, includes basic insurance, cell phone or SIM Card.
In NIC: Toyota Prado 4x4 manual or similar including the obligatory basic insurance and taxes for
the rental car
Free mileage
Extra charge to pick up the vehicle for Nicaragua in Peñas Blancas
Extra charge for the drop-off at Managua International Airport
Standard Seat-In transfer from the airport to the city hotel in San José (one way)
Transfer from Liberia to Peñas Blancas in a modern vehicle with a/c on day 8 (with a Spanishspeaking driver; additional cost for Germen- or English-speaking transfer guide: see ―not included‖)
First night accommodation in San José (including breakfast)
FlexiVouchers for the whole package (1 hotel voucher for the first night in San José and 13
FlexiVouchers)
Travel documents for each country including road maps and a list of all participating hotels and the
services included for each hotel
How-to-use-Guide with all hotels of the FlexiVoucher program
In Costa Rica: cellular phone with free local calls (must be reserved in advance).
In Costa Rica: discount card offering discounts on selected tours, activities and restaurants
In Costa Rica: access to the web page www.flexivoucher-costarica.com
Tourist card (must be purchased upon entering Nicaragua; currently US$ 10.00 per person) and
border cost in Peñas Blancas (currently USD 3,- per person)
Additional insurance for the rental car (see price list) and GPS (see price list)
Cellular phone in Nicaragua
Meals (at some FlexiVoucher hotels breakfast is included)
Drinks
Fuel, toll and parking tickets
Any penalty charges if the vehicle is returned later than arranged
Fee for additional drivers
Upgrades to other room types than standard
Any entrance, ferry tickets, etc.
Additional pick-up or drop-off fees
Additional cost for German- or English-speaking transfer guide on the transfer from Liberia to Peñas
Blancas: USD 70,- per transfer
Departure tax of US$ 35.00 per person at the airport upon leaving Nicaragua (if not already included
in the airfare)
Airport departure tax in San José, US$ 28.-- per person
Conditions of the Costa Rica & Nicaragua FlexiVoucher Program
All prices mentioned below are for packages starting in San José and finishing in Managua. Please
consult us if you are interested in a pick-up or drop-off in other places.
91
The duration of the rental period will start on day 2 when you receive your vehicle and end on the
last day at the same time. Any additional hours will be charged directly to the client by the rental
company upon return of the vehicle.
All prices mentioned below include a seat-in transfer from the airport to the hotel in San José and the
accommodation for the first night at a hotel of our choice.
Upon arrival in the respective country, clients will receive their travel documents including the
FlexiVouchers and a list of the hotels that participate in the FlexiVoucher Program.
The FlexiVoucher Program is not valid during Christmas/New Year (20.12.2012 – 10.01.2013)
and during Easter Week (24.03.2013 – 01.04.2013).
If client runs out of FlexiVouchers but wishes to stay longer at one of the participating hotels, the
hotel will charge the official rack rate directly to the client.
Unused or lost FlexiVouchers are not refundable.
Clients must identify themselves as FlexiVoucher clients if they want to check availability or make a
reservation at any of the participating hotels. If they do not identify themselves as FlexiVoucher
clients upon making the reservation, the hotel reserves the right to charge a supplement between
the official rack rate and the reduced FlexiVoucher rate or to reject the booking. You identify yourself
mainly for your own interest in order to get reliable information. Important: As soon as you make a
reservation at one of the participating hotels, you enter in a legal contract between you and the hotel.
If you do not check-in according to your reservation, the hotel reserves the right to charge a ―noshow‖ fee of one night´s accommodation.
Unused transfers are not refundable.
General note: All rates mentioned below have been quoted with Adobe Rent-a-Car (Costa Rica) and
Budget Rent-a-Car (Nicaragua). In case the requested vehicle is not available, we will request it at
one of our alternative rental car agencies, in which case the rates may change.
Extra services
in Nicaragua:
Cell Phone Rental for US$ 2.00/day: includes cellular phone with its own number and charger.
Not included are telephone cards, which can be purchased at any gas station, post office, telephone agency,
internet café or supermarket.
Note: you have the possibility to charge your phone with US$ 10.00 upon arrival.
GPS: US$ 7.50/ day
Additional Insurance in Costa Rica
Includes coverage of 100% liability of material damage to third parties (additional cost: US$ 15.00 per day
for all vehicle types).
Additional Insurance in Nicaragua:
Can be booked directly by the client at the rental car agency upon pick-up of the vehicle or in advance in our
office at no extra charge:
CDW: Covers 80% of damage in case of collision or theft. Deductible: USD 1.000,-.
(Additional cost: USD 8,75 per day)
SCDW: Covers 100% in case of collision and 80% in case of theft as well as damage to the tires and
windshield. Deductible: USD 0,00.
CLP: Covers damages to tires and windshield.
PIA5: personal protection in case of an accident for the passengers of the rental car with a maximum of
USD 5.000,- per passenger or USD 25.000,- per rental car independently of the number of passengers.
Note 1: All mentioned prices include local taxes of 15%.
92
Note 2: All mentioned prices are subject to changes without previous notice.
Nicaragua Pick-up / Drop Off extra charges
Montelimar: US$ 35.00
El Guasaule (border to Honduras): US$ 65.00
Rates
th
th
The rates are in US$ per person valid from December 16
2011 until December 15 2012. The
FlexiVoucher Program is not valid during Christmas/New Year (20.12.2012 – 10.01.2013) and during
Easter Week (24.03.2013 – 01.04.2013).
NEW 2012/13 15 days/ 14 nights (8 days/ 7 nights Costa Rica and 8 days/ 7 nights Nicaragua)
Pax quantity
Room type
16.12.2012 – 15.04.2013
16.04.2013 – 15.12.2013
1 Pax
Im Einzelzimmer
2.122,-
2.031,-
Im Doppelzimmer
1.152,50
1.110,50
Im Einzelzimmer
1.472,50
1.409,50
Im Doppelzimmer
909,-
867,-
Im Einzelzimmer
1.229,-
1.166,-
Im Dreibettzimmer
808,-
773,-
Im Doppelzimmer
796,50
761,50
Im Einzelzimmer
1.116,50
1.060,50
Im Dreibettzimmer
695,50
667,50
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
Additional Transfers valid until December, 15th, 2013
Additional private transfer Managua – Liberia: US$ 79.50 p. p. per one-way (min. 2 pax).
Additional private Transfer Managua – San José: US$ 146.00 p. p. per one-way (min. 2 pax).
Costa Rica & Nicaragua FlexiVoucher Program vehicles
COSTA RICA
NICARAGUA
SUV Intermediate 2WD
(Hyundai Tucson)
Toyota Prado 4x4
93
Optional Pre-extention in Costa Rica:
TORTUGUERO 3 days/ 2 nights
Day 1
Arrival to San José – Transfer to city hotel
Arrival at the International Airport Juan Santamaría in San José. We will
organize for you an assistance that will be inside the airport waiting for
you and helping you through baggage claim and customs. Outside the
Airport a representative of Ara Tours will be waiting to transfer you to a
comfort class city hotel in San José. This transfer might take around 30
minutes. While you are on the bus, you will receive the flexi Voucher
documentation and some explanations on the program. Our airport guide
will also assist you during check-in.
This transfer and the first night in the city hotel are part of the
FlexiVoucher program.
Accommodation/ Room type
Day 2
Day 3
Included today
Breakfast
route
Lunch
Dinner
en
Mawamba Lodge ***, Standard
Tortuguero Nationalpark
A first included boat tour to the channels of Tortuguero National Park
already takes place before breakfast. This is among the best times to see
birds and animals. In the afternoon there is another chance to discover
Tortuguero National Park by boat. You will possibly observe monkeys,
sloths, turtles, iguanas and many different species of birds. Lunch at the
lodge, the rest of the day is free at leisure. Dinner and overnight.
Day 4
Early in the morning you will be picked up at your hotel in San José. After
a scenic drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park you will stop for a
typical breakfast. Then the journey continues through wide banana
plantations to La Pavona or Caño Blanco/ San Rafael de Tortuguero,
where you take a boat. Cruising over rivers and channels you have the
chance to already observe animals. Sometime later, you will arrive at your
jungle lodge*** and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon you can either choose to
relax at the pool, or take a walk with a local guide in the lodge´s garden
and the village of Tortuguero. In Tortuguero, you have the possibility to
visit the Caribbean Conservation Center (US$ 2.-- per person) dedicated
to the protection of the endangered sea turtles. There will still be some
time to enjoy a drink in one of the typical sodas of Tortuguero, before you
head back to the lodge for dinner. After dinner and only between July and
September, you can take part in an optional night walk on the beach in
order to observe sea turtles laying their eggs in the sand.
Included today
none
Included today
Breakfast
Tortuguero N.P.
Lunch
Dinner
Tortuguero – Guapiles – Begin your individual FlexiVoucher Route
After breakfast you will return to La Pavona or Caño Blanco by boat and continue
by bus to Guápiles, where lunch will be served. Afterwards, you continue to the
Service Station of Río Blanco, where your rental car will be delivered. In order to
Included today
Breakfast
Lunch en route
94
pick up the car you will need the following documentation: a passport (with
the entrance stamp to the country on it), a credit card and a drivers‘
license. An international drivers‘ license is not required. You will also be
given a cell phone or SIM card to check availability at the FlexiVoucher
hotels before arrival. At this point, you can choose which route you take.
You have the option to choose over 140 hotels throughout the country.
Included Services
Not Included
Transfers and transportation in air-conditioned
buses and boats of the jungle lodge
2 nights at Mawamba Lodge in a standard room
Full board
Entrance ticket to Tortuguero National Park
2 boat tours
Local English and Spanish-speaking guide Day
2–4
Additional beverages
Optional Activities
Personal Expenses
Transfer to City Hotel. First night in the city hotel
and transfer are part of the FlexiVoucher
package.
We reserve the right to change the itinerary in case of any pressing reason.
Prices
The following prices are net in US$ per person, valid from 16.12.12 to 15.12.13
Room type
In a Single room
Period
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
Price in US$ net per person
274.— Mawamba Lodge
In a Double room
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
In a Triple room
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
198.--- Mawamba Lodge
children 0 – 4.99 yrs
sharing room with two adults
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
1.— Mawamba Lodge
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
Starts with a minimum of
Basic language of this tour
Operating Days
Type of guiding
Included meals
Maximum children in parents room
Comments:
Cancellation Conditions FIT:
Until 16 days prior to departure:
15 – 08 days prior to departure:
1 person
English / Spanish
Daily
Guided throughout from/to San José
As per description in the manual
2
1 entrance fee (10.—USD per
person, 1.-USD for kids up to 12 yrs)
to Tortuguero National Park is
included in the package rate.
No charge
Charge of 30% of the entire stay
95
COSTA RICA & PANAMA
The Costa Rica & Panama FlexiVoucher Program gives you the possibility to discover both Costa Rica and
Panama within one vacation trip.
Whether traditional towns, mountainous regions, wild beaches, nature reserves or national parks – you will
have the opportunity to design your own personal itinerary according to your taste.
Get immersed into the daily life of two different neighbouring countries and feel their hospitality from the first
to the last day. You will pick up your vehicle in San José and will enjoy the diversity of various regions on
your way to Panama City, giving you the chance to get to know the culture and traditions of both countries.
On the day of arrival a representative of the Costa Rican Tourism Association CANATUR will be waiting for
you right after immigration. During the transfer to your hotel in San José you will be given your travel
documents, road map and FlexiVouchers for Costa Rica. Your rental car will be delivered to your hotel the
next morning. You will have the choice to stay at over 140 hotels in Costa Rica and about 30 hotels in the
range of 2 and 3 star hotels in Panama.
You drop off your Costarrican rental car at the car at the border of Paso Canoas. On the Panama side of the
border you will be expected by a transfer vehicle from Gapa Travel, which will take you safely to the city of
David. During this transfer you will also be delivered your travel documentation for Panama including hotel
descriptions, cell phone, a map of Panama and the Flexi- and rental car vouchers. You will also take over
your rental car, here. Your first night at Panama will be pre-reserved at a hotel in the province of Chiriquí the night before your departure is programmed at a Flexi Hotel of your choice at Panama city. The transfer
from this hotel to the international airport is part of the package and will be operated by Gapa Travel.
Day 1
Arrival at San José – Transfer to city hotel
Arrival at the International Airport Juan Santamaría in San José. We will organize for you an
assistance that will be inside the airport waiting for you and helping you through baggage claim
and customs. Outside the Airport a representative of Ara Tours will be waiting to transfer you to
a comfort class city hotel in San José. This transfer might take around 30 minutes. While you
are on the bus, you will receive the flexi Voucher documentation and some explanations on the
program. Our airport guid will also assist you during check-in.
Accommodation/ room type
Day 2
Pick-up of your rental car – start of your trip
After breakfast a representative from our Rent a Car partner ADOBE will deliver your rental car
at your city hotel. In order to pick up the car you will need the following documentation: a
passport (with the entrance stamp to the country on it), a credit card and a drivers‘ license. An
international drivers‘ license is not required. You will also be given a cell phone or SIM card to
check availability at the FlexiVoucher hotels before arrival. At this point, you can choose which
route you take. You have the option to choose over 140 hotels throughout the country.
Day 3 - 7
Day 8
Drop off the vehicle in Adobe Rent a Car at the border of Paso Canoas – Transfer to
David – Overnight around Chiriquí
Drop off of the Costarrican rental car at Paso Canoas in the course of the day. Please let us
know at the moment of your reservation, at what time you would like to schedule the drop off.
We recommend to avoid the noon time 11:00 – 13:00 because of usually long waiting lines at
the border. On the Panama side of the borde, you will be expected by a transfer vehicle of Gapa
Travel for a transfer to David. During the transfer you will also be delivered your travel
documentation for Panama including hotel descriptions, cell phone, a map of Panama and the
96
Flexi- and rental car vouchers. The driver speaks Spanish and in case of any communication
difficulties, you will be attended by an English-speaking agent of Gapa Travel via telephone. At
David, you take over the rental car and drive towards your pre-reserved hotel around Chiriquí.
Day
9 - 13
Comfort Class Hotel ***, Chiriquí
Day 14
Rental Car drop off at Panama City – Transfer to your FlexiVoucher Hotel
Today you drop off your rental car at the offices of National Rental Car at Panama City at the
agreed time. A transfer from Gapa Travel will take you to the FlexiVoucher City hotel of your
choice. Here, you will spend the last night of your FlexiVoucher stay.
Day 15
FlexiVoucher Hotel– Airport
According t o your flight departure, you will be transferred to the international airport. End of our
services.
Included services
Car. The car will be delivered on day 2 at the city hotel in San José and has to be returned on day 8
at Paso Canoas, includes basic insurance, cell phone or SIM Card.
In PAN: 6 rental car days in a Hyundai Tucson 4x4 Automatic, including comprehensive cover and
theft loss waiver (deductible for Hyundai Tucson US$ 2000.--), liability insurance, local taxes
Free mileage
Standard Seat-In transfer from the airport to the city hotel in San José (one way)
First night accommodation in San José (including breakfast)
First night accommodation at Panama in the province of Chiriquí
12 FlexiVoucher (6 for Costa Rica and 6 for Panama)
Dropf off fee for the Costarrican rental car at the border of Paso Canoas (US$ 194.--)
Pick up fee for the Panama rental car at David.
Transfer from Paso Canoas to David in a modern vehicle with A/C on day 8
In Costa Rica: cellular phone with free local calls (must be reserved in advance).
Border fees CR - PAN (currently USD 3,- per person)
Additional insurance for the rental car (see price list) and GPS (see price list)
Drinks
Upscale FlexiVoucher program in Panama
Voluntary Tips
97
Optional Activities
Personal Expenses
Conditions of the Costa Rica & Panama FlexiVoucher Program
All prices mentioned below are for packages starting in San José and finishing in Panama City.
Please consult us if you are interested in a pick-up or drop-off in other places.
The duration of the rental period will start on day 2 when you receive your vehicle and end on the
last day at the same time you picked up your Panama rental car at David. Any additional hours will
be charged directly to the client by the rental company upon return of the vehicle.
Minimum age of the driver: 23 years
Upon take over of the rental car, the clients will need to present a valid driver‘s license, credit card
(Visa, Master card or American Express) their passport and a ticket for their return flight. An
international driver‘s licence is recommended for Panama.
and during Easter Week (24.03.2013 – 01.04.2013). The independence days at Panama 03.13.11.2013) and Carnival (09.-13.02.2013) are also excluded.
General note: All rates mentioned below have been quoted with Adobe Rent-a-Car (Costa Rica) and
National Rent-a-Car (Panama). In case the requested vehicle is not available, we will request it at
one of our alternative rental car agencies, in which case the rates may change.
EXTRA SERVICES
GPS:
In Costa Rica:
USD 10,- per day
In Panama:
USD 5,95 +7% per day
ADDITIONAL INSURANCES
In Costa Rica:
In Panama:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) (A), see table
Passenger Personal Accident Insurance (B), see table
tire and glass coverage (C), see table
Car type
Hyundai Tucson 4x4
- additional driver
- child safety seat
A per day
6.00 + 7 %
B per day
6.50 + 7%
C per day
3.00 + 7%
$ 3.00 + 7% per day
$ 6.00 + 7% per day
98
Rates
th
th
The rates are in US$ per person valid from December 16 2011 until December 15 2012. The
Easter Week (24.03.2013 – 01.04.2013). The independance days at Panama 03.-13.11.2013) and
Carnival (09.-13.02.2013) are also excluded.
15 days / 14 nights (8 days / 7 nights CR and 8 days / 7 nights PAN)
Pax quantity
Room type
16.12.2012 – 15.04.2013
16.04.2013 – 15.12.2013
1 Pax
In a single room
2.280.--
2.189.--
In a double room
1.201.50
1.159.50
In a single room
1.586.50
1.523.50
In a double room
988.--
946.--
In a single room
1.373.--
1.3010.--
In a triple room
912.--
877.--
In a double room
918.50
883.50
In a single room
1.303.50
1.247.50
In a triple room
842.50
814.50
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
Panama & Costa Rica FlexiVoucher Program vehicles
COSTA RICA
PANAMA
SUV Intermediate 2WD manual
(z.B. Hyundai Tucson)
Hyundai Tucson 4x4 Automatik
oder ähnlich
Optional Pre-extention in Costa Rica:
TORTUGUERO 3 days/ 2 nights
Day 1
Arrival to San José – Transfer to city hotel
Arrival at the International Airport Juan Santamaría in San José. We will
organize for you an assistance that will be inside the airport waiting for
you and helping you through baggage claim and customs. Outside the
Included today
none
99
Airport a representative of Ara Tours will be waiting to transfer you to a
comfort class city hotel in San José. This transfer might take around 30
minutes. While you are on the bus, you will receive the flexi Voucher
documentation and some explanations on the program. Our airport guide
will also assist you during check-in.
This transfer and the first night in the city hotel are part of the
FlexiVoucher program.
Day 2
Early in the morning you will be picked up at your hotel in San José. After
a scenic drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park you will stop for a
typical breakfast. Then the journey continues through wide banana
plantations to La Pavona or Caño Blanco/ San Rafael de Tortuguero,
where you take a boat. Cruising over rivers and channels you have the
chance to already observe animals. Sometime later, you will arrive at your
jungle lodge*** and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon you can either choose to
relax at the pool, or take a walk with a local guide in the lodge´s garden
and the village of Tortuguero. In Tortuguero, you have the possibility to
visit the Caribbean Conservation Center (US$ 2.-- per person) dedicated
to the protection of the endangered sea turtles. There will still be some
time to enjoy a drink in one of the typical sodas of Tortuguero, before you
head back to the lodge for dinner. After dinner and only between July and
September, you can take part in an optional night walk on the beach in
order to observe sea turtles laying their eggs in the sand.
Day 3
Included today
Breakfast
route
Lunch
Dinner
en
Tortuguero Nationalpark
A first included boat tour to the channels of Tortuguero National Park
already takes place before breakfast. This is among the best times to see
birds and animals. In the afternoon there is another chance to discover
Tortuguero National Park by boat. You will possibly observe monkeys,
sloths, turtles, iguanas and many different species of birds. Lunch at the
lodge, the rest of the day is free at leisure. Dinner and overnight.
Day 4
Included today
Breakfast
Tortuguero N.P.
Lunch
Dinner
Tortuguero – Guapiles – Begin your individual FlexiVoucher Route
After breakfast you will return to La Pavona or Caño Blanco by boat and continue
by bus to Guápiles, where lunch will be served. Afterwards, you continue to the
Service Station of Río Blanco, where your rental car will be delivered. In order to
Included today
Breakfast
Lunch en route
pick up the car you will need the following documentation: a passport (with
the entrance stamp to the country on it), a credit card and a drivers‘
license. An international drivers‘ license is not required. You will also be
given a cell phone or SIM card to check availability at the FlexiVoucher
hotels before arrival. At this point, you can choose which route you take.
You have the option to choose over 140 hotels throughout the country.
100
Included Services
Not Included
Transfers and transportation in air-conditioned
buses and boats of the jungle lodge
2 nights at Mawamba Lodge in a standard room
Full board
Entrance ticket to Tortuguero National Park
2 boat tours
Local English and Spanish-speaking guide Day
2–4
Additional beverages
Optional Activities
Personal Expenses
Transfer to City Hotel. First night in the city hotel
and transfer are part of the FlexiVoucher
package.
We reserve the right to change the itinerary in case of any pressing reason
Prices
The following prices are net in US$ per person, valid from 16.12.12 to 15.12.13
Room type
In a Single room
Period
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
Price in US$ net per person
In a Double room
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
In a Triple room
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
198.--- Mawamba Lodge
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
1.— Mawamba Lodge
15.12.12 – 14.12.13
Starts with a minimum of
Basic language of this tour
Operating Days
Type of guiding
Included meals
Maximum children in parents room
Comments:
Cancellation Conditions FIT:
Until 16 days prior to departure:
1 person
English / Spanish
Daily
Guided throughout from/to San José
As per description in the manual
2
1 entrance fee (10.—USD per
person, 1.-USD for kids up to 12 yrs)
to Tortuguero National Park is
included in the package rate.
No charge
101
PANAMA & COSTA RICA & NICARAGUA
The Panama & Costa Rica & Nicaragua FlexiVoucher Program gives you the possibility to discover three
Central American countries within one vacation trip.
Whether traditional towns, mountainous regions, beaches, historical colonial cities, nature reserves or
national parks – you will have the opportunity to design your own personal itinerary according to your taste.
Get immersed into the daily life of the locals and feel their hospitality from the first to the last day. You will
pick up your vehicle in Panama City and will enjoy the diversity of various regions on your way via Costa
Rica to Managua in Nicaragua, giving you the chance to get to know the culture and traditions of all three
countries.
On the day of arrival, a representative of GAPA Travel welcomes you at the exit oft he airport building and
takes you to your prebooked city hotel. During the transfer you will be given your travel documentation, road
map and FlexiVouchers for Panama. At the next morning, you will be taken to the pick up point of your rental
car. In Panama, approximately 30 hotels in the range of 2 and 3 star hotels are participating in the
FlexiVoucher program. Explore Panama on your own pace during this first week of your stay in Central
America.
At Paso Canoas you return your rental car and pass the border. On the Costarrican side you pick up your
new rental car including travel documentation and FlexiVouchers for Costa Rica. At this point, it‘s you again
who move the steering wheel and decide where the trip goes next. You have one week to discover Costa
Rica, more than 140 hotels are part of the program. On day 15 you reach the Northern capital of the country,
the city of Liberia. Here you return your rental car at the offices of our rent-a-car partner and will be taken by
a colleague of Oro Travel to Peñas Blancas, the border to Nicaragua. Here, you take over a new rental car
including travel documentation and FlexiVouchers for your ongoing trip to Nicaragua. Between 20 and 30
different hotels waiting for your visit in this exciting country.
On the last day of your trip you finally return the rental car at the airport of Managua.
Day 1
Panama City – transfer to your city hotel
Individual arrival at Panama City. Our driver will wait for you at the exit of the airport, transfer to
the prebooked city hotel. Today, you will also receive a detailed travel documentation for your
FlexiVoucher adventure in Panama.
Day 2
Pick-up of your rental car – start of your trip
In the morning you will be picked up at the hotel for a short transfer to the offices of our rental
car partner. Here, you take over the car and immediately start exploring Panama. If wished, you
may of course spend another night at Panama City… this is perfectly up to you.
Days 3-7
Comfort Class Hotel*** Panama City
FlexiVoucher Hotel, Standard
Your individual FlexiVoucher roundtrip in PANAMA
Get to know the fascinating Panama! Nowerdays, only few really attractive countries exist,
which are not yet crowded with tourists, Panama is definitely one of them. Its people are friendly
and perfect hosts and they do preserve their cultural heritage, for example when celebrating
their National holidays. Usually, they are surprised and curious when European tourists visit
their city. The 77.082 sqkm big country is mostly known for its canal; however, Panama has
much more to offer to their visitors: The cosmopolitan capital Panama city with its fascinating
skyline, tropical salsa rhythms and colouful Sunday market, a vital Indigenous population with
their century-old tradition and culture and overall its remarquable nature paradise.
Panama is definitely a country with many faces and attractions for anyone‘s interests.
102
Unforgettable experiences and impressions are waiting for you.
Day 8
Rental car drop off at the border of Paso Canoas – Rental car pick up in Costa Rica
You return your rental car in Paso Canoas at the same time you picked it up on day 2. We
recommend to cross the border before 11:00am in order to avoid the usual long waiting lines
around noon-time.
On the Costarrican side you take over your rental car from ADOBE rent a car. Regular pick-up
time is 11:00am. You will need the following documentation: a passport (with the entrance
stamp to the country on it), a credit card and a drivers‘ license. An international drivers‘ license
is not required. You will also be given a cell phone or SIM card to check availability at the
FlexiVoucher hotels before arrival. The representative of ADOBE will also pass you the
complete travel documentation for Costa Rica including the FlexiVoucher How-to-use guide and
the list of participating hotels per region. At this point, you can choose which route you take. You
have the option to choose over 140 hotels throughout the country
Days
9 – 14
Your individual FlexiVoucher roundtrip in COSTA RICA
Day 15
Rental car drop off at the ADOBE offices in Liberia – transfer to Peñas Blancas –
Continuation in Nicaragua
Around 9.30 am you should drop off the car at the ADOBE Rent a Car office in Liberia. At 10.00
am a representative of our partner agency ORO Travel will pick you up at the office and take
you to the border of Peñas Blancas (transfer takes about 1 hour), from where you will pick up
your next car - a Toyota Prado or similar - in order to continue your program in Nicaragua,
having a choice of 20 to 30 hotels in Nicaragua.
Days
16-21
Your individual FlexiVoucher roundtrip in NICARAGUA
Day 22
FlexiVoucher Hotel – Airport Managua
Today you will return your rental vehicle at the airport in Managua, from where you will take your
flight back home (if you have a return flight from Costa Rica, please see below for the transfer
rates to Liberia or San José).
Included services
In PAN: 6 rental car days in a Hyundai Tucson 4x4 Automatic, including comprehensive cover and
theft loss waiver (deductible for Hyundai Tucson US$ 2000.--), liability insurance, local taxes
Car. The car will be delivered on day 8 at Paso Canoas and has to be returned on day 15 in Liberia,
includes basic insurance, cell phone or SIM Card.
In NIC: Toyota Prado 4x4 manual or similar including pick up fee for Peñas Blancas and drop off fee
at Managua airport, mandatory basic insurance and taxes for the rental car
Free mileage
Transfer from the airport to the city hotel at Panama City
First night accommodation at Panama City
20 FlexiVouchers (6 in Panama, 7 in Costa Rica und 7 in Nicaragua)
Drop-off fee for the Panama rental car at Paso Canoas
103
Pick-up fee for the Costarrican rental car at Paso Canoas
Pick-up fee for the Nicaraguan rental car at Peñas Blancas
Drop-off fee at Managua airport
Bei der Ankunft im jeweiligen Land wird den Kunden eine vollständige Reisedokumentation mit den
FlexiVouchern sowie einer Aufstellung der am FlexiVoucher Programm teilnehmenden Hotels
übergeben.
In Panama: cellular phone for local calls including a credit of US$ 10.-In Costa Rica: cellular phone with free local calls (must be reserved in advance).
Border fees CR - PAN (currently USD 3,- per person)
Nicaragua tourist card (must be purchased upon entering Nicaragua; currently US$ 10.00 per
person) and border cost in Peñas Blancas (currently USD 3,- per person)
Additional insurance for the rental cars (see price list) and GPS (see price list)
Drinks
Upgrades auf andere Zimmerkategorien als Standard
Additional pick-up or drop-off fees
Upscale FlexiVoucher Paket in Panama
Additional cost for German- or English-speaking transfer guide on the transfer from Liberia to Peñas
Blancas: USD 70,- per transfer
Voluntary tips
Optional activities
Personal expenses
Departure tax at Managua airport (currently US$ 35.—per person) in case it is not included in the
international flight ticket.
Conditions of the Panama & Costa Rica & Nicaragua FlexiVoucher Program
All prices mentioned below are for packages starting in Panama City and finishing in Managua.
Please consult us if you are interested in a pick-up or drop-off in other places.
The duration of the rental period will start on day 2 when you receive your vehicle and end on day 8
at Paso Canoas at the same time. In Nicaragua it starts on day 15 at Peñas Blancas and ends at
Managua airport at the same time. Any additional hours will be charged directly to the client by the
rental company upon return of the vehicle.
Minimum age of the driver: 23 years
Upon take-over of the rental car, the clients will need to present a valid driver‘s license, credit card
(Visa, Master card or American Express) their passport and a ticket for their return flight. An
international driver‘s licence is recommended for Panama.
and during Easter Week (24.03.2013 – 01.04.2013). The independence days at Panama 03.13.11.2013) and Carnival in Panama (09.-13.02.2013) are also excluded.
104
General note: All rates mentioned below have been quoted with National Rent-a-Car (Panama),
Adobe Rent-a-Car (Costa Rica) and Budget Rent-a-Car (Nicaragua). In case the requested vehicle
is not available, we will request it at one of our alternative rental car agencies, in which case the
rates may change.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
GPS:
In Panama:
USD 5,95 +7% per day
In Costa Rica:
USD 10,- per day
In Nicaragua:
USD 7,50 per day
Cell Phone Rental for US$ 2.00/day: includes cellular phone with its own number and charger.
Not included are telephone cards, which can be purchased at any gas station, post office, telephone agency,
internet café or supermarket.
Note: you have the possibility to charge your phone with US$ 10.00 upon arrival.
ADDITIONAL INSURANCES
In Panama:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) (A), see table
Passenger Personal Accident Insurance (B), see table
tire and glass coverage (C), see table
Car type
Hyundai Tucson 4x4
- additional driver
- child safety seat
A per day
6.00 + 7 %
B per day
6.50 + 7%
C per day
3.00 + 7%
$ 3.00 + 7% per day
$ 6.00 + 7% per day
In Costa Rica:
In Nicaragua:
Can be booked directly by the client at the rental car agency upon pick-up of the vehicle or in advance in our
office at no extra charge:
CDW: Covers 80% of damage in case of collision or theft. Deductible: USD 1.000,-.
SCDW: Covers 100% in case of collision and 80% in case of theft as well as damage to the tires and
windshield. Deductible: USD 0,00.
CLP: Covers damages to tires and windshield.
105
PIA5: personal protection in case of an accident for the passengers of the rental car with a maximum of
USD 5.000,- per passenger or USD 25.000,- per rental car independently of the number of passengers.
Note 1: All mentioned prices include local taxes of 15%.
Note 2: All mentioned prices are subject to changes without previous notice.
Nicaragua Pick-up / Drop Off extra charges
Montelimar: US$ 35.00
El Guasaule (border to Honduras): US$ 65.00
RATES
th
th
The rates are in US$ per person valid from December 16 2011 until December 15 2012. The
Easter Week (24.03.2013 – 01.04.2013). The independance days at Panama 03.-13.11.2013) and
Carnival in Panama (09.-13.02.2013) are also excluded.
22 days / 21 nights (8 days / 7 nights PAN, 8 days / 7 nights CR und 8 days / 7 nights NIC)
Pax quantity
Room type
16.12.2012 – 15.04.2013
16.04.2013 – 15.12.2013
1 Pax
In a single room
3.548.--
3.457.--
In a double room
1.895.50
1.853.50
In a single room
2.425.50
2.362.50
In a double room
1.499.--
1.457.--
In a single room
2.029.--
1.966.--
In a triple room
1.378.--
1.343.--
In a double room
1.350.50
1.315.50
In a single room
1.880.50
1.824.50
In a triple room
1.229.50
1.201.50
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
106
Panama & Costa Rica & Nicaragua FlexiVoucher Program vehicles
PANAMA
COSTA RICA
NICARAGUA
Hyundai Tucson 4x4 Automatik
oder ähnlich
SUV Intermediate 2WD manual
(z.B. Hyundai Tucson)
Toyota Prado 4x4 manual
oder ähnlich
107
Terms and Conditions
These conditions are valid as far as no other written agreement has been made between you and
Latincoming.
Reservations
Reservations must be sent by fax, mail or e-mail:
Latincoming
Apdo. 799-1007
San José
Costa Rica
Fax number:
e-mail:
++506 2232 0363
[email protected]
The itineraries depend on availability at the mentioned hotels and services. If one / some hotel(s) / service(s)
are fully booked we will try to offer equivalent hotel(s) / service(s).
Cancellations / Change of reservation
In case of cancellation the following cancellation fees will be charged:
- 22 days prior to arrival:
21 - 15 days prior to arrival:
00 days or no show:
no additional charge
10% of the total amount
All cancellations must be made in written. As date of cancellation counts the reception of the written
cancellation on working days. In case a cancellation is received on Saturday or Sunday, the following
Monday will count as cancellation date.
Payment Conditions
FIT bookings:
In case of cross national tours you receive one bill for the whole journey, issued by Latincoming S.A. In case
of tours concerning only one country, the bill is issued by the corresponding Latincoming partner. The total
amount must be prepaid at least 15 days prior to clients´ arrival. Please transfer the amount exclusively in
US$ to the bank account mentioned on each invoice.
In case of group bookings, special payment conditions will be mentioned in our offer.
ees for bank transfers of the originating country as well as of the United States must be covered by the tour
operator. Fees for bank transfers of the receiving country are covered by the corresponding Latincoming
partner. In case payment is not received on time, we reserve the right to cancel all services and charge the
respective cancellation fees.
108
Increase of prices
Latincoming reserves the right to adjust prices due to governmental decreed increases of taxes or fuel
prices. In case a client´s journey therefore increases more than 10%, the client has the right to cancel his
tour without any costs within 10 working days. The same regulation comes into effect if a tour has too less
participants and therefore a price adjustment has to be made or if the due to early print deadlines estimated
rates of the next season increase more than 5%.
Liability
The partners of Latincoming are committed to carefully fulfil the agreed services.
Latincoming partners cannot be hold responsible in case of delays, break-offs and the resulting additional
costs (concerning extra overnights, meals, transportation etc.) due to strikes, natural disasters (hurricanes,
flooding, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes), domestic disturbances or other acts beyond our control.
Delays and break-offs caused by the client (illness etc.) have to be covered by the client. Anyhow, each
Latincoming partner will assist to find the best solution.
109

manual english 2012 / 2013

Transcription

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