We are proud to offer an exclusive tour to the real virgin rain forest of SELVA LEONA, in the mountains of TILARAN.
G. PONTEUR, owner of Hotel La Mansion Inn, was invited by the owner of SELVA LEONA on March 5, 2002 to visit this spectacular reserve of 180 ha.(450 acres). Before that time, this hidden treasure had never been open to the public.
Once there you will experience a virtually untouched ecosystem of flora and fauna with the same awe the Spaniards must have felt when they arrived to this land in 1502, naming it Costa Rica (Rich Coast). With your trek into the forest you will have the chance to see many species of birds, including the birder’s holy grail, the quetzal. Three species of monkeys abound in this region with the howler monkey being the most prevalent. Reptiles such as poison dart frogs, the Jesus lizard, and numerous varieties of colorful snakes call this area home.
Your reward will be the discovery of some 10 waterfalls that flow from the mountains into the Rio Agua Caliente (warm water river), the highest of these being 100 feet. You can refresh yourself in the cool crystal waters before your hike out.
A covered boat on the Arenal Lake takes you along the Arenal Volcano to the other side of the lake. From there you will start a two hour horseback ride into the mountains. You will cross the Rio Grande several times, admiring the landscape, on your entrance into the forest. But if you desire you can do the ride in a 4×4 jeep
You will have to leave the horses or the vehicle at the border of the forest, where you will begin a hike of 3.5 hrs through the virgin cloud forest in search of birds, monkeys, flowers, and waterfalls. The trails go up and down hills, so good physical condition should be considered for this expedition.
On your exit from the forest an authentic Tico BBQ awaits you. This is a typical Costa Rican meal, served with the hospitality and humbleness that makes the Ticos such a special people.
The trip back on the horses or 4×4 to civilization will again take 2 hrs, after which you will cross the lake by boat and make the return journey to the hotel.
Clothes required: jeans, hiking boots, rain gear (it rains often in the cloud and rain forest..), swimming suit, change of dry clothes.
Rate: $ 150 pp
Departure: at 7:00 Return at approx 3:30 PM