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Activity Costa Rica

Quetzales Route: Naturalist Exploration in the Cloud Forest

5.0 (6 reviews) 10–12 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Quetzales Route: Naturalist Exploration in the Cloud Forest

About this activity

The Quetzales route takes us to Los Quetzales National Park to explore one of the country's most fascinating ecosystems: the cloud forest. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, we will traverse its trails interpreting the forest from a holistic perspective: its flora, birds, adaptations, ecological interactions, and the altitude and humidity conditions that shape this unique ecosystem.

The experience extends to Dota and points of interest in the páramo and high-altitude forests, revealing different landscapes and ecosystems of the region.

The resplendent quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno) gives its name to our experience. We will tour territories that are part of its natural habitat, where each day offers a new opportunity to discover it in the wild.

With small groups and specialized interpretation, discover the cloud forest, the páramo, and the high-altitude landscapes of Costa Rica: an experience to observe, understand, and connect with nature.

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At a glance

Duration
10–12 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 20 people
People per booking
1–20
Audio guide
English, Spanish
Guide
English, Spanish
Written guide
English, Spanish
Operated by
Vamonos Costa Rica Tours

Ages: Infants (1–3 years) · Children (4–9 years) · Youth (10–17 years) · Adults (18–64 years) · Seniors (65–100 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Private transportation
  • Included: On-board WiFi: WiFi on board
  • Included: Enjoy a buffet breakfast full of tradition and flavor, with fresh ingredients and authentic recipes.
  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: We have a fleet of vehicles adapted to each experience. From modern, air-conditioned minibuses ideal for groups, to luxury 4x4 vehicles, perfect for exploring challenging terrain
  • Included: Lunch: We offer a varied menu that includes a starter, main course, and dessert.
  • Included: Naturalist tourism guide
  • Included: Admission fees: All scheduled visits on the tour include official entrance fees to selected sites, ensuring seamless access at no additional cost.

Not included

  • Not included: Tips and gratuities of 10% are recommended.
  • Not included: Sure: Tourists must have their own medical and travel insurance.

Itinerary

  1. Parque National Los Quetzales

    2 hours Admission included

    Immerse yourself in the stunning cloud forest of the Talamanca Mountain Range on a hike guided by expert naturalists. The trails wind through ancient trees, crystal-clear rivers, and extraordinary biodiversity, where the quetzal is the most sought-after jewel.

    During the tour, you'll learn about high-mountain ecosystems and observe endemic birds, medicinal plants, and wildlife interactions up close in their natural habitat. The tranquility of the surroundings, the fresh air, and the floating mist create a mystical atmosphere, perfect for connecting with nature and experiencing an unforgettable experience.

  2. Cerro de la Muerte

    30 min Admission included

    This tour takes us to the heights of the Inter-American Highway, where the fog and mountainous landscape create a mysterious atmosphere. We make a strategic stop to contemplate the enigmatic Laguna Danta, a body of water hidden among the mountains and shrouded in legend.

    We will explore the páramo forest, a unique landscape where vegetation has adapted to low temperatures and strong winds, offering a stunning view of high-mountain biodiversity.

    Each stop is an opportunity to breathe fresh air, marvel at the flora and fauna, and connect with the essence of these spectacular landscapes, as well as the history and culture of the region.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Our travelers will board at the Hotel El Guarco, Cartago.

    Boarding time: 6:35 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Aurola Holiday Inn, San José.

    Boarding time: 5:55 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Little World, the Lima Cartago

    Boarding time: 6:25 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Gran Hotel Costa Rica, San José.

    Boarding time: 5:45 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Holiday Inn, Alajuela.

    Boarding time: 5:30 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the City Express Hotel, Heredia.

    Boarding time: 5:15 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

End point

  • Our travelers will board at the Hotel El Guarco, Cartago.

    Boarding time: 6:35 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Aurola Holiday Inn, San José.

    Boarding time: 5:55 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Little World, the Lima Cartago

    Boarding time: 6:25 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Gran Hotel Costa Rica, San José.

    Boarding time: 5:45 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the Holiday Inn, Alajuela.

    Boarding time: 5:30 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  • Our travelers will board in front of the City Express Hotel, Heredia.

    Boarding time: 5:15 am (time confirmed the day before)

    Our naturalist guide will be waiting with the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours badge.

    It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Pickup points

  • Hotel Portal Colonial
  • Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu
  • Posada Nena Santa Ana
  • Studio Hotel Boutique
  • Hotel Villa Los Candiles
  • Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG
  • Aloft by Marriott San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica
  • Hotel Luisiana
  • City Express by Marriott San Jose Costa Rica
  • Luxhigh Hotel & Casino
  • Casa Conde Hotel & Suites
  • Hotel Santo Tomas

and 148 more pickup points

Our certified naturalist guide will be waiting for travelers at the agreed-upon meeting point, identified by the Vámonos Costa Rica Tours logo. To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend being ready 10 minutes before your scheduled time.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Specialized infant seats are available

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

  • Not recommended for people sensitive to temperatures below 15°C

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 6 reviews
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Quetzales Route: Naturalist Exploration in the Cloud Forest

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