DAY 1 — SAN JOSE   Depart from the USA. Arrive in the capital of Costa Rica and check into your hotel. DAY 2 — SAN CARLOS   This morning, travel to the beautiful province of Alajuela. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. This evening, view the Arenal Volcano, possibly the most active volcano in the world, then enjoy a swim in the therapeutic waters of the hot springs at its base. On a clear night, it may be possible to see the spectacular orange glow of lava flowing. Spend the night in San Carlos, the agriculture capital of the north. DAY 3 — SAN CARLOS   Travel north today to splendid Caño Negro, along the mighty Río Frío. Comprised of swamp and marshlands, Caño Negro covers about 1,977 acres in the wet season. Enjoy the boat trip while you share company with exotic creatures such as osprey, storks, caiman and monkeys, as well as the unique garfish, which have lungs, gills and a nose. Lunch will be included today instead of dinner. Return to San Carlos for a night's rest. DAY 4 — MONTEVERDE   Depart on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure of riding horseback from the Arenal area toward the lush cloud forest of Monteverde. Your bags will travel by bus and will meet you in Monteverde. Anyone unable to ride on horseback may travel on the touring bus. Arrive at your destination with a new understanding of how the locals travel. DAY 5 — MONTEVERDE   Today, explore this beautiful cloud forest. Founded in the 1950s by a group of Quakers from Alabama, Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to more than 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals and 2,500 species of plants. This afternoon you will swing far above the forest floor on the world famous Monteverde Canopy Tour. DAY 6 — MANUEL ANTONIO   Journey to Manuel Antonio, where the forest meets the Pacific coastline. Spend the rest of the day getting a feel for the local culture and relaxing in beautiful natural surroundings. DAY 7 — MANUEL ANTONIO   Enjoy a full day in Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most stunning parks in Costa Rica with lush forests and picturesque white sand beaches. Spend the day exploring the park and its wildlife. DAY 8 — SAN JOSE   Enjoy a free morning on the white sand beach. In the afternoon drive to San José for your last night in this beautiful country. DAY 9 — DEPARTURE   Depart for the USA. Optional Extensions and Extra Nights: Further immerse yourself in the culture and wonders of Costa Rica with an extra night in San José, including the services of your ACIS Tour Manager.