After hotel pickup in San Jose (if selected), take a scenic drive northeast and arrive about an hour later at Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Atlantic, an ecotourism reserve boasting 1,200 acres (475 hectares) of waterfalls, rivers and dense tropical forest.

This private sanctuary shares a 6-mile (10-km) border with Braulio Carrillo National Park. Your challenging hike through the rainforest jungle covers roughly 3 miles (5 km), with an elevation gain of 475 feet (145 meters), over the course of five hours.

Start your day at the reserves main building, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast of pinto beans and rice, eggs, sausage, bread, cereal, fresh tropical fruits, orange juice, coffee and tea.

Then follow an expert naturalist to the aerial tram to reach the starting point. During the hour-long ride in the open-air gondola, your guide points out some plants and birds that you don't typically see from the ground. Youll also receive practical tips on how to safely explore the rainforest during your hike.

Travel deep into the jungle, and disembark at Tower 12 to begin your trek along Corinto River. On this journey, you'll climb short but steep ascents, and tromp along muddy paths. All the hard work pays off when you get to take in the gorgeous views of the rainforest on breaks.

Youll have an opportunity to take a dip in one of the rivers natural pools and then sprawl out on the riverbank to dry.

After a break, hoof it back to Tower 12 and instead of taking the tram again, follow your guide on a trail that separates the reserve from Braulio Carrillo National Park. Arrive at the reserves main building, where you can shower and freshen up before being transported back to your hotel.

Note: Click on the 'View additional info' below to ensure your hotel is included in the pickup and drop-off zone.