DAY 1 ARRIVAL SAN JOSE.
Following your arrival at Juan Santamaria International Airport, outside of San Jose, you will be met by staff members and transferred to your San Jose hotel. Following dinner, there will be a brief orientation session about our Costa Rica Workshop. Overnight San Jose. D

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DAY 2 SAN JOSE - ARENAL VOLVANO HIKING AND HOT SPRINGS.
Early this morning, we will depart for Arenal Volcano. One of the most active volcanoes in the Western Hemisphere, Arenal has been in a constant state of activity since it last erupted in 1968. Located on the southern shores of the Lake Arenal, it is a spectacular site, with its perfect conical shape rising from the surrounding hills, we will spend the morning hiking on the hardened lava flows that make up Arenal´s lower slopes. Here our group will observe the remains of the volcano’s more active past. Following lunch, we will visit Baldi Hot Springs, located at the base of Arenal. Steaming waters form waterfalls and natural therapeutic pools that we can soak and relax in. The hot springs found here are surrounded by brilliant vegetation, while Arenal serves as a stunning backdrop. After the sun sets, we will with some luck, observe the activity of Arenal. On a clear night, one can see bursts of fire and red-hot molten lava shooting hundreds of feet into the sky, whereas during the day only smoke and the volcano's roar are apparent. Explosions typically occur every day and they are easy to see if the sky is clear, but we can not guarantee you will see one. Overnight in a lodge near Lake Arenal. B L D

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DAY 3 ARENAL VOLCANO AND LAKE - MONTEVERDE CHEESE FACTORY CASEM.
After breakfast, we will take a brief look at Lake Arenal, the largest lake in Costa Rica. A hydroelectric dam at one end produces 75% of the electricity used in Costa Rica. It is also well known for its’ windsurfing and freshwater fishing. Our group will then travel to the village of Monteverde, This is a peaceful community, considered an example of conservation, Arround this little village we can find several reserves (the Children´s Eternal Rain Forest and the Santa Elena Reserve among others).After lunch our group will visit the well-known Monteverde Cheese Factory, which is run by local Quakers, one of the largest dairy producers in Costa Rica. About 2200 pounds of cheese is produced daily and well known for its’ quality in Costa Rica and throughout Central America Following the cheese factory tour our group will visit a local women’s arts and crafts cooperative called CASEM. A wide range of hand-made work is featured here, whose themes focus on the natural beauty of the area. Dinner and overnight at Monteverde. B L D

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DAY 4 BUTTERFLY GARDEN AND MtV CLOUDFOREST RESERVE. (Aerial Tram)
Early this morning, our group will travel a short distance to a local butterfly farm. Here, we will have a guided tour through and we will have the chance to see hundreds of spectacular butterflies found in Costa Rica, learn about their complex life cycle and the importance of butterflies in the wild. After lunch, we will have a chance to hike in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. At present, Monteverde is comprised of 27,000 acres and run by the Monteverde Conservation League. The Reserve is cool, due to its’ elevation and lush vegetation. Incredible biodiversity here includes 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, 500 butterfly species and 2500 different types of plants. Three species of monkeys, tree sloths, coatimundis, kinkajous, the spectacular resplendent quetzal, three-wattled bell birds, red-eyed tree frogs and blue morpho butterflies are just a few of the animal highlights. We would be able to do the Aerial Tram which is a trip in aerial carriages which move through secondary forest and thematic gardens. The trip can be done at any time regardless of the weather. The tram's design permits observation at all levels of the forest and because it is comfortable and relaxing it is perfect for anyone, especially for those who de not want to or have difficulty walking on traditional trails.  Dinner and overnight at Monteverde. B L D

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DAY 5 MONTEVERDE - TAMARINDO - FREE AFTERNOON.
Following breakfast we will travel to Tamarindo with its immaculate beaches, crystal clear blue waters, excellent natural surroundings, and near perfect weather, it is no wonder that Tamarindo is among the most popular vacation destinations in Costa Rica. After lunch, we will be able to enjoy ourselves in the Tamarindo Bay that has become a mecca for surfers and blue water sport fishermen. Their sport fishing fleet of talented and conservation oriented captains are the pioneers of the Pacific coast. Visitors also have access to SCUBA diving, snorkeling trips, beach cruises, water skiing, jet skiing, catamarans, ocean and river kayaking, wind surfing, sailing cruises and horseback riding. Bicycles, beach gear, surfboards, boogie boards and equipment of all types are available for rental from specialty stores. The entire town has a relaxed laidback feel to it, making it a fabulous place for anyone looking to have a good time. Dinner and overnight at Tamarindo. B L D

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DAY 6 TAMARINDO FREE DAY.
After breakfast we will have the whole day for some spare time to enjoy all the activities that Tamarindo offers or just to relax drinking a cocktail by the sandy beaches of Tamarindo. Dinner and overnight at Tamarindo. B L D

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DAY 7 TAMARINDO - SARCHI MARKET - SAN JOSE FAREWELL DINNER.
Following breakfast we will depart to Sarchi Market one of the best places in Costa Rica to see and purchase traditional handicrafts. We will hear from local artisans about the building and painting of famed Costa Rican ox-carts. Participants will also get a chance to observe as carts are painted. In the afternoon, we will return to San José for our Farewell Dinner and overnight. B L D

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DAY 8 SAN JOSE - DEPARTURE.
After an early breakfast and farewells to our Costa Rica Field Course Staff, you will be transferred to Juan Santamaría International Airport, outside San José for your return flight home. B

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