February 19 - 26, 2005
Join Bill Lamar, internationally celebrated tropical biologist and adventurer, for an unforgettable jaunt through lush forests and sparkling beaches in Costa Rica. Bring your binoculars and cameras and loads of film, and be prepared to relax like never before. We'll spend our time on the Osa Peninsula on the Pacific coast. The Osa is one of Costa Rica's largest wilderness areas, a wild and gorgeous place packed with plant and animal diversity. Recently, we've stumbled upon a truly little-known gem on the Osa...the El Remanso Rainforest Wildlife Lodge.
El Remanso is an ecotour vacation spot that blends the wonders of the rainforest with sandy Pacific Ocean beaches. The lodge is located half way between the town of Puerto Jimenez and the famous Corcovado National Park and is included in the Osa National Wildlife Refuge which now integrates over 5,000 acres. This wildlife refuge protects the biological corridor between Corcovado National Park and Cabo Matapalo.
The lodge's 140 acres are surrounded by ancient rainforest and its endlessly fascinating and amazing jungle and wildlife. Recent sightings include jaguars, ocelots and several species of rare endemic birds. If you want to experience the splendors of nature at its best while relaxing comfortably you will love to be with us at El Remanso.
Around El Remanso lodge you can see vast amounts of wildlife and botanical treasures. Scarlet macaws, toucans, parrots, four species of monkeys, five species of wild cats, kinkajous and much more. Sandy beaches, clear rivers, forest trails, tree climbing, waterfalls and some of the world's best birding and wildlife viewing will all combine to create a great adventure trip.
After arrival to San Jose, Costa Rica on Saturday, February 19, we'll transfer to a fine hotel for overnight. The next morning we'll fly to the Pacific coast and transfer to the El Remanso Rainforest Wildlife Lodge, a very special location on the southern Osa Peninsula.
From our base at this beautiful lodge, we'll explore the surrounding rainforest...some of the wildest in Costa Rica, via day and night walks, searching out interesting wildlife, viewing incredible botanical wonders, observing and photographing...and anything else of interest to you.
INCLUDED: All lodging (double accommodation) for 5 nights / 6 days El Remanso Lodge, 2 nights ( 1 coming, 1 going) in San Jose, all transfers, internal flight San Jose-Pto Jiménez-San Jose, all meals while at the lodge, all outings and tours, and of course the professional guidance and fun company of Bill Lamar.
NOT INCLUDED: Airport departure taxes when you leave Costa Rica, any meals while not at the lodge, your bar bill at the lodge.
DEPARTURE AND RETURN
If you decide to join us, call us to reserve your spot, then you will need to make the following flights arrangements:
Schedule your arrival in San Jose for the afternoon or evening of Saturday, February 19.
Schedule your return flight to the States for the following Saturday morning, February 26.
Inform the GreenTracks office in writing, of your airline, flight numbers, and arrival and departure times. We must have a written itinerary of your flights in the GreenTracks office. You can send by fax to 970-884-6107.
DOCUMENTS
Passports are now required of everyone entering Costa Rica.
LUGGAGE
The airline we will fly from San Jose to the west coast of Costa Rica has a weight limit of 25 lbs of luggage per person. If your total luggage weighs more than this you might have to pay extra to get it on board, if they allow it. Sometimes the extra fee is waived. This will be your responsibility and not GreenTracks.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Consult your doctor for all medical concerns. W hat follows is simply suggestions. No immunizations are required for entrance into Costa Rica. A highly recommended medication is an antibiotic to be taken in case of bad gastrointestinal upset. Physicians usually prescribe either Doxycycline or Cipro (Ciprofloxacin). We prefer the latter, but either will do. You don't want to lose a day or two out of your trip due to an upset stomach. Be sure to ask your physician about the possible dangers of combining medications, especially if you are already taking prescription drugs. Aside from this, simply bring along any of the usual medications with which you travel (Pepto Bismal, aspirin, Tylenol, Dramamine, antacids, etc.). In every case, please follow your physician's advice about ALL health aspects.
INSECT REPELLENT AND SUNBLOCK
Bugs are no worse than in the States. Repellents containing 24% - 29% "DEET" are most effective. Stronger concentrations of DEET are just not necessary. We prefer sprays which are handy for treating both yourself and your clothing. Be aware that certain colognes and perfumes may attract bees or other insects. The sun is intense in the tropics. Bring a sunblock with a rating of SPF 30 for complete protection.
CLOTHING
Casual. We prefer breathable, cotton or cotton and synthetic blends for a fabric that wick-drys quickly. Heavy jeans will take forever to dry, but suit yourself. The light-weight synthetics designed for hot weather by companies such as Ex-Officio, Columbia, and REI, which wick moisture away from your skin and dry fast are excellent. They are very comfortable. Long-sleeve shirts are handy, the sleeves can be rolled up in heat or down if bugs are a problem. Shorts and T-shirts should also be included. Take plenty of underwear and socks. Don't forget your bathing suit.
A hat for protection from the sun is perhaps the handiest item of clothing. Bring a light weight hiking-boot for the forest, flip-flops or sandals for around the lodge and beach, and another comfortable pair of walking shoes for around town and travel. A light-weight poncho or rainjacket is an essential. Don't forget your sunglasses. In fact, if there are two essential items of clothing at risk of being lost, they are your hat and sunglasses. I always travel with a spare of both. Travel light in every case, you will be boarding a small plane for the flight to the west coast.
EQUIPMENT
Bring a good flashlight, alkaline batteries, and spare bulbs. Any 3 D-cell flashlight with an adjustable beam will work. There is no need for a light more powerful than this; conversely, a smaller one will not last on a night hike. Binoculars are recommended for bird or monkey watching. A plastic water-bottle for hikes and other excursions. A fanny pack or day pack will come in handy for walks.
Pack film in a lead bag or in a carry-on that you can access easily for removal prior to passing through airport X-ray machines. Don't believe what they tell you...the x-rays can fog your film!
IMPORTANT
Balance is due 45 days before date of departure.