Costa Rica is being wisely protected in an excellent system of national parks and reserves that has won praise from conservationists around the world. There are more species of birds here than in all of North America, over 800 in a country only four times the size of Connecticut. Among its 237 species of mammals are three-toed sloths, four species of monkeys, giant anteaters, tapirs, peccaries, jaguars, and humpback whales. Reptiles and amphibians include the Strawberry Poison Dart Frog, all five genera of sea turtles, the endangered American Crocodile, and the Basilisk Lizard, which can actually run across water. There are more butterflies in Costa Rica than on the entire continent of Africa. The plant life is spectacular; there are more than 12,000 species of plants, including a dazzling variety of trees and orchids. Come explore the amazing natural wonders of Costa Rica with Karen and Joel.

* A Costa Rican naturalist guide and your experienced photo leaders, Karen and Joel Schulman.

*The lush Savegre region, known by birders in search of the Resplendent Quetzal.

*The fabulous Arenal Volcano.

*White sand beaches & rainforest reserve of Manuel Antonio National Park.

*Zipline canopy tour and catamaran cruise during your stay in the Manuel Antonio area.

*Tour limited to 12 participants

Price includes:

*All tour accommodations and transportation in Costa Rica for those traveling with the group.

*Most meals (as specified in the itinerary with B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner).

*Services of an excellent bilingual naturalist guide while in Costa Rica.

*Services and photographic education by your photo escorts.

*Park entrance fees as shown in the itinerary.

*Extensive pre-departure information, services, and materials.

Not included:

International air fare; airport departure tax upon leaving Costa Rica (currently $26 per person); additional costs for transportation and accommodations for those not traveling with the group; meals not specified in the itinerary and beverages not included with meals; trip cancellation and interruption insurance; all personal expenses such as excess baggage fees, laundry, and phone calls; optional tips to the driver and guide.