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March 25, 2007: Arrive San Jose

We transfer from the airport to our charming hotel in the Los Yoses neighborhood in San Jose.

March 26: Sarapiquí (L,D)

We arise early and transfer to Sarapiquí. We take advantage of our travels with a detour to the remarkable La Paz Waterfall Garden. Follow the trails, as they weave through four towering falls, and take in the incredible views of the La Paz River Valley. The park is also home to a variety of species of humming birds, and the world's largest enclosed butterfly observatory, that offers a collection Costa Rica's most brilliant butterflies. We will fill our stomachs with a satisfying lunch at the Gardens.

This afternoon we go to visit the coffee Cooperative Sarapiquí. This coop with its own processing mill has a capacity of about 15,000 QQ (quintales, or 100 pounds) per year. They package their own coffee, sell it in two local stores for members at reduced rates, and offer delivery service for bulk cooperative purchases of farm goods. They have invested many resources into sustainable coffee production including developing a water treatment facility, an organic composting project, and researching and testing different organic farming techniques. (http://www.coocafe.com/coopesarapiqui.htm)

This evening, we rest at the Selva Verde Lodge for the night.

March 27: Sarapaquí River (B,L,D)

This morning we rise to conquer the challenge of whitewater rafting on the Sarapiquí River! Flowing between two Costa Rican volcanic national parks and running alongside primary rainforest, the Sarapiquí is one of the most pristine and cleanest rivers in Costa Rica.

This evening we take a nature walk through the Tirimbina Reserve. The Reserve is teeming with the diversity of botanical and zoological species characteristic of such rainforest ecosystems and it inspires awe in all who visit. Six kilometers of trails wind through the Reserve and visitors will experience great wildlife watching and rainforest biodiversity. Used as a conservation area, the trails are designed and maintained for the least possible negative impact on delicate ecosystems.

March 28: Turrialba Area (B,D)

This morning we drive to Turrialba, a small town perched on the Caribbean slope of the Cordillera Central on the banks of the Turrialba River. Spend some time exploring the little town and get settled into your new mountain lodge. This lodge is the best option for mountain lovers and tropical adventurers due to its accessibility to both environments. The beautiful scenery, complete peacefulness and cozyness make it a special place.

Later this afternoon, visit the ASSUKKA Sugar Cane Coop, located in the Turrialba Valley. This mill uses technics for growing organic sugar cane that are harmless to nature. They improve soil fertility, yield and help maintain producers and consumers good health.

March 29: Turrialba and Off to the Coast (B)

This morning is free in Turrialba to unwind or take in any of the extra activities available in the area including horseback riding, a visit to the Turrialba Volcano or the Guayabo Archaeological Site (click here for more information).

After lunch, we will transfer to the Caribbean coast towards Puerto Viejo. Along the way, we stop and visit the APPTA Coop, or the Asociación de Pequeños Productores de Talamanca. This association was founded in 1987 by a non-governmental organization called ANAI that wanted to help farmers in the Talamanca area. The 1,500-member cooperative joined the Fair Trade system in 1997 and has about 1,030 cocoa-producers, with about 25% women. APPTA aims to improve the standard of living of the member families, use sustainable agricultural methods, increase quality, and diversify both agricultural and industrial production so that members have income sources other than agricultural products. Members have influence in decisions made in the General Assembly and community members participate through committees and a community Board. (http://www.appta.org/english.htm)

This evening we settle into our new lodge in Puerto Viejo!

March 30: Caribbean Beach Day (B)

Today is ours to enjoy. Go snorkeling, sea kayaking, take a rainforest walk, or just hang around the beach and swim in the surf. Our guide will be available for a day trip to Cahuita, a small Caribbean village known for its attractive beaches suitable for snorkeling and swimming and visiting the lesser known Cahuita National Park. Our guide can help arrange everything from a trip to a nearby indigenous village to sea kayak and boogie board rentals. You might also choose to just walk along the miles of near deserted beach.

March 31: Return to San Jose (B)

Enjoy the morning on the beach soaking up the Caribbean sun or riding waves on a boogie board. This afternoon we make our way back to San Jose to complete our Costa Rica travels. Spend the evening enjoying one of San Jose's finer restaurants or just relax in the colonial style hotel.

April 1: Return Home

We transfer to the airport for the return flight home.

Visit Discover Fair Trade for more information about the Discover Fair Trade Sweepstakes!

Accommodations: All nights spent in hotels/lodges

Food Includes: All meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); most of our hotels offer free continental breakfast.

Transportation: vans or minibuses

Personal Budgeting: Each person should plan for $150 for meals not included, $120 optional excursions, and $26 International airport departure tax