This tour features a visit to the over 400-year-old Spanish ruins of Fort San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the lush ambiance of a Natural Tropical Forest. Within minutes of departing the pier, your air-conditioned vehicle will proceed to the former US Army Base of Fort Sherman through the jungle training areas, which were active until April of 1999. Continuing your drive through dense tropical forest you will reach the remote Fort San Lorenzo. Your guide will offer details of the immense amount of history found on this spot. The Spaniard built this Fort in the 16 th century to defend their well-known gold trail and they were very successful until the Fort was ransacked by the infamous Welsh Captain Henry Morgan. Please note: This tour returns to the ship and does not include a transfer to Panama City. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a camera, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and sunglasses.

Your tour will begin by taking you to the impressive Agua Clara Visitor Center located on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal. With an unparalleled view, this place will be waiting for you and all those who want to enjoy a pleasant experience enriched with interesting facts, but especially by being part of the history of the route that unites the world. The center offers a breathtaking panoramic view that contrasts two particular scenarios that generate mixed feelings. On one side you will find the famous Gatun Lake, where cargo ships or other vessels transit every day, while on the other side, but from a different perspective, you will be amazed by seeing how the giants of the sea, called Neo-Panamamax vessels, go through the new set of locks. After the impressive viewpoint, pamper yourself and be captivated by all those things that the Agua Clara Visitor Center has to offer. At the projection room you can learn about the history and efforts of thousands of men and women that have marked the Canal's first century and, of course, plans in the near and distant future. Throughout your visit, peruse the walls and exhibits with interesting information that will amaze you. Walk through the ecological path, with a variety of plants and species that make the trail an adventure with great scenery and breathtaking views. Identify the different species gathered there that are indigenous to this area of the Canal watershed. At the end of this tour, you will be transferred to your hotel. Please note: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a camera, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. This tour is available for guests with flights after 5 p.m.

Your tour will begin by taking you to the impressive Agua Clara Visitor Center located on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal. With an unparalleled view, this place will be waiting for you and all those who want to enjoy a pleasant experience enriched with interesting facts, but especially by being part of the history of the route that unites the world. The center offers a breathtaking panoramic view that contrasts two particular scenarios that generate mixed feelings. On one side you will find the famous Gatun Lake , where cargo ships or other vessels transit every day, while on the other side, but from a different perspective, you will be amazed by seeing how the giants of the sea, called Neo-Panamamax vessels, go through the new set of locks. After the impressive viewpoint, pamper yourself and be captivated by all those things that the Agua Clara Visitor Center has to offer. At the projection room you can learn about the history and efforts of thousands of men and women that have marked the Canal's first century and, of course, plans in the near and distant future. Throughout your visit, peruse the walls and exhibits with interesting information that will amaze you. Walk through the ecological path, with a variety of plants and species that make the trail an adventure with great scenery and breathtaking views. Identify the different species gathered there that are indigenous to this area of the Canal watershed. At the end of this tour, you will be transferred to the International airport. Please note : Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a camera, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. This tour is available for guests with flights after 5 p.m.

Explore a local estuary system in Gulf of Chiriqui via Panga boat. Meet your captain and board a local Panga boat. Venture to the other side of Isla Parida to find beaches and mangrove-covered shorelines, where monkeys are known to be active. Afterward, enjoy a stunning cruise between the many islands, appreciating the turquoise waters and lush foliage on each island you pass. The islands within the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine park are mostly inhabited, only a few mansions and boutique hotels dot the landscapes. As you circle around these beautiful islands and head back to the ship, the captain will explore the areas home to many local bottlenose and spinner dolphins.

Isla Parida is surrounded by the Chiriqui National Marine Park - and this means there are dozens of untouched islands. Set sail into open waters for the chance to explore the Gulf of Chiriqui's stunning islets on an island hopping adventure . Picture iconic crescent moon beaches , soaring palm trees, white- sand beaches, coral reefs, and gentle waters that are perfect for snorkeling. Please note : Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes and wear your bathing suit under your clothes. Bring your swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera and insect repellent. Boats used are modest panga boats and guests will need to be able to climb hanging ladders to be able to get in and out of the vessel. The ladders are short and can be challenging to climb. At times visibility and snorkeling conditions may not be ideal. If conditions are too poor your captain may decide to search for wildlife such as turtles, dolphins and whales instead. Your captain will speak Spanish, but you will have an English-speaking escort. A waiver must be signed prior to the tour.

The inshore fishing in Central America is often overlooked due to the phenomenal offshore fishing that grabs headlines, but it is equally as exciting and even more diverse. You can catch over 20 different species of game fish while inshore fishing. For the anglers who aren't interested in trolling offshore all day you can cast poppers, slow-troll live bait, or go jigging as the inshore action is consistent and exciting. Along the Pacific coastlines of the Isla Parida archipelago you can fish the volcanic coastline and countless islands for Jacks, Mackerel, big Cubera Snapper, Snook, and the famous Roosterfish. The unique dorsal fin and hard fighting ability of the Roosterfish make it one of the most sought after species for many salt water anglers! Please note : T his is a catch-and-release fishing activity . Caught fish are not allowed to be brought back on board. Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring your swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, and insect repellent. Your boat will be guided by an experienced captain and mate. You will be provided with top-of-the line tackle and gear, bait sodas, bottled water, beer, all required safety equipment including life jackets, throw devise, fire extinguishers, smoke and flare devices, ship-to-shore radio and first aid kit.

The rainforest is filled with over 1,000 teak, mahogany, eucalyptus, and many of other trees, plants and fauna. Your hike will approximately and 1 1/2 hours in significant to extreme heat and humidity and the level of difficulty is moderate to strenuous. You will disembark your ship and take tenders to the beach where you will be met by certified bilingual guides. Isla Parida represents one of the world's few remaining "undiscovered" places . Adventure off the beaten path to explore the wondrous ecology of the island, from beautiful flowers and rare vegetation to iguanas and rare birds. Along the way you'll enjoy a viewpoint stop to see neighboring islands. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes, and shorts or long pants, a t-shirt or light shirt, your swimsuit, towel, and a hat. Bring insect repellent, your sunglasses, and your camera. You will be provided with water. Also it is recommended to bring additional clothes to change after the walk experience. Please do not bring valuable items to this tour.

Explore the rainforest of the Osa Peninsula on a guided tour through a locally owned small preserve. The Valverde family protected this small area in La Perica on the Osa Peninsula from being developed into farmland like much of the region. After a brief orientation with your knowledgeable English speaking guide, you'll spend 90 minutes walking the trails with your guide looking for wildlife and learning the history of the preserve. Sloths, macaws, and other wildlife are attracted to this peaceful and well-preserved forested area. After your tour of the preserve, you'll enjoy fresh fruit, homemade empanadas, and refreshments. Please note : It's recommended that guests wear sandals or water shoes as this tour involves a wet landing. Additionally, guests should bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses.

A brief transfer from Jimenez leads to one of the most stunning and vibrant retreats in the vicinity - Botánika Osa Peninsula, a part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, nestled in the untouched tropical beauty of Costa Rica's southwest coast. The rugged and secluded Osa region offers a glimpse into Costa Rica's history while providing an escape from the ordinary. This resort seamlessly blends with nature, offering top-tier amenities and the exceptional service Hilton is known for. Revel in a natural lagoon-style pool and prioritize wellness while embracing the distinctiveness of this breathtaking locale. Food and drinks are available for purchase with a selection of fresh fruit juices, local artisanal brews, and Costa Rican-inspired exotic cocktails available to order. Or indulge in a contemporary bar menu featuring tapas, ceviche, Peruvian-style "tiraditos," crisp salads, and the town's finest burgers, all within the backdrop of the expansive lagoon-style pool, creating an open and refreshing atmosphere. Please note : You will be offered a complimentary non-alcoholic welcome drink upon arrival at the resort, there will be additional drinks and snacks available for purchase. Please note, the Cahui Beach club facilities are not included. We recommend you wear beach attire, bring a towel, extra change of clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. This port involves a wet landing, so please bring your sandals or water shoes.

Costa Rica's warm seas are home to one of the most biologically diverse marine habitats in the world. The best place to observe these magnificent mammals is in the waters off the Osa Peninsula . You will board your boat and head for a place known by National Geographic to be "the most biologically intense area on earth." A place where large groups of dolphins swim in clear blue tropical waters putting on an amazing show! As you cruise around the bay your tour will be enhanced by the informative commentary provided by a trained naturalist guide. You will learn about the biology, behavior and habits of the wildlife you will spot. You will have amazing photo opportunities and if weather permits you will have free time to swim in the serene waters of Punta Encanto (Enchanted Beach). Please note : This tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility or back problems as it involves an optional nature walk over a gravel surface and the boat ride might get bumpy.

Go across Golfo Dulce where life goes at a slow pace and through the humid mangroves with the squeaking sounds of the unique scarlet macaws that mingle in this area, the most common birds. Your kayak guides will be waiting with your kayaks and paddles ready for you to begin this fun experience! Paddle up the mangrove estuary with the rising tide until you can go no further and return with the falling tide, dragging your kayak across the sand spit and into the Golfo Dulce to cruise the shoreline, stopping to swim at the best beach. Pods of bottle-nosed porpoises return daily along this coast on their way to the open Pacific, affording a great chance to view them. Please note : This tour is operated at high tide only. A waiver is required and there is a weight restriction of 235 lbs. Wear light clothes, hat or visor, sunscreen, and sun glasses. Wear your bathing suit under your clothes for those who want to swim at the beach and bring a towel.

Experience the interesting cacao manufacturing process by visiting a traditional cacao plantation at Kobo Farm. Board your minivan for the 25-minute drive to this untouched and mystical area, where you will see the cacao forest, the flowers, and fruit. The history and culture of this tropical crop reaches back to the Mayas. You will learn about the origin of the cacao tree, the history, the first contact with Europeans, and the principal disease called monilia. You will take a guided walk where you will see different species of cacao fruit, take a break in this beautiful spot and taste fresh fruit from the "chocolate tree." You will be shown the various steps of making good chocolate and have the opportunity to taste a wonderful chocolate fondue with fresh fruit and homemade banana bread from the farm in the middle of a tropical garden. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be walking over both paved and dirt paths. It also involves a wet landing so bring your sandals or water shoes as well. Bring your hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and sunglasses. The guide will be waiting for you at the chocolate farm.

A boat ride through the mangroves is like visiting another world. The species of trees that grow in the mixed waters of the ocean and the river make a unique and very fragile ecosystem . Most of these trees grow along the estuary, developing an aerial root system. As the tide goes down the roots become suspended in the air creating a perfect home for crabs and caimans. In the upper part of the forest you will see monkeys and a great variety of birds including herons, egrets, and spoonbills. The launch will take you to a private property for refreshments as your naturalist tour guide gives you more information about this amazing ecosystem. Your shaded boat will then take you deep into the mangroves, where you will try to spot all the incredible wildlife making their home there. After a 2- hour boat ride you will arrive at the village where transportation will be waiting to drive you back to the ship. An optional drop off in Quepos is also available, where you will find several restaurants and shops. Please note : Wear light clothing, good walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Experience a unique piece of Costa Rican rural heritage just about an hour from Quepos on a scenic country drive by van. This guided nature, conservation, and cultural expedition takes you along the lush, jungle-shrouded slopes of the nearby Fila Chonta Mountains to the farm village of Santa Juana . You will enjoy exploring along the 1.5-mile user-friendly nature trail as your guide will share knowledge of this pristine sanctuary of flora and fauna where both the Rodeo and Paquita Rivers are born. You will continue to where you can swim beneath the pristine waterfalls that feed the Rodeo River. You will have free time to fish for tilapia or explore the tropical gardens and waterfalls. You will visit the tiny farm village of Santa Juana, overlooking the panoramic coastline of the Pacific Ocean as you enjoy an authentic Campesino (country) lunch in a typical village rancho, co-hosted by members of the local community. Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. The road is bumpy and winding and there are stairs involved. This tour includes a light breakfast and a buffet lunch. There is an option for swimming so wear your bathing suit under your clothes.

Experience a fun and informative tour of local cuisine, learn where the organic ingredients come from, how dishes are prepared, and how to recreate recipes at home. Once in the small town of Londres , at a private ranch and dining area, you will be greeted by the team. They will proceed to guide you through the garden to pick out some finishing flavors, colors and textures for your meal. Now, to the preparation guided by their expert local cooks. Participate in the kitchen and experience the process of making corn tortillas by hand, exotic "ceviches" with plantain, rice cooked the old-fashioned way, chicken in a hearty tomato sauce, "picadillos" and more. Once you sit down for your meal, not only will your appetite be satiated but also your curiosity for Costa Rican local flavors. Let your imagination soar on how to recreate at home with your own seasonal ingredients. There will be leisure time available for you to explore the ranch. Please note : Wear light comfortable clothing.

Manuel Antonio National Park is the jewel of Costa Rica's large number of national parks. Its fragile rainforest ecosystem shelters a variety of wildlife including mammals and tropical birds. The dense rainforest opens into small trails where your naturalist tour guide will acquaint you with all the information regarding the transitional forest. Another great attraction is the white-sand beach that meets the jungle. The park protects 683 hectares of tropical rainforest and over 1,000 different species of flora . This walk is by far one of the best in the Central Pacific, and a great opportunity to get closer to the forest. The trail followed will be a moderate walk with paths made out of gravel, dirt, and sand. There are also exposed roots that you need to manage. After a 20-minute drive your 1.5-hour guided walk will lead you to the beach where you will have time for sunbathing or swimming. At the end of this walk your naturalist tour guide will prepare a tropical fruit buffet to regain your energy and then you will head back to Quepos where an optional drop off in the town of Quepos will be available. Please note : In order to enter the National Park, we are required to submit your full name, passport number, age and nationality. We will need this information more than 72 hours in advance and there will be no cancellations within 72 hours of departure. This shore excursion is non-refundable. If you booked Trip Protection through Windstar Cruises this shore excursion is covered under the trip protection plan. As a result, your trip protection premium will increase. The walking is moderate with some uphill climbs. It is recommended to wear light clothing, good walking shoes/hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. Wear a bathing suit under your clothes and bring a towel if you want to sunbathe at the beach. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Remain hydrated as the temperature is usually humid and hot. Manuel Antonio Park is considered one of most visited National Parks in Costa Rica. Please expect congestion in the park and long lines at the park's only entrance. The early start will help reduce wait time and increase chances to view wildlife.

Travel through the beautiful countryside to Esquipulas Rainforest , a lovely private nature reserve located 50 minutes away from Quepos. The property is refreshed with crystal-water creeks, and surrounded by giant trees that you can only find in tropical jungles, a land with an amazing number of species of birds and butterflies. Your naturalist guide will lead you through the trails of the rainforest , sharing the guide's vast knowledge of this fragile ecosystem. Enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful place, while you walk on easy trails. Search with your binoculars and discover between branches and leaves the secrets of the wildlife in this amazing forest. Be ready with your senses to hear the songs of the different species of birds and even see them! Be on the lookout for toucans, hummingbirds, and animals like monkeys and other small mammals. After this unforgettable encounter with nature, learn more about Costa Rica followed by an introduction to one of the most important crops in the local economy the coffee. In their private museum, your tour guide will show you the process to convert this fruit in one of the most famous drinks around the world. To get the best of your day in Quepos you will then be served a hearty traditional Costa Rican casado lunch. Please note : Bring suntan lotion, sunglasses, camera, binoculars, a hat/visor, and insect repellent. Wear light clothing, long pants and hiking shoes. Part of the fun of this experience is the interaction with a colorful local nature guide. As an example, the following in an abbreviated biography of one of our participating guides. Rudy Guzman has always had a passion for nature from his days as a boy scout. For over 40 years he has been a licenses nature tour guide traveling through many Costa Rican environments. With the help of 3 brothers, Norberto , Carlos and Cristian Bonilla, they created The Esquipulas Rainforest Project to introduce visitors to Costa Rican natural history and share great tasting coffee.

This is an excursion for adrenaline lovers. You will be picked up at La Marina and go to the property where you will start your horseback riding tour. During the 30-minute drive to Londres - where the tour starts - your guide will give you an interesting briefing about the history of Quepos. Once you reach Londres you will set foot on a picturesque property that has bathrooms, stables, a corral and an open air waiting area. You will receive riding instructions, safety tips and practice time, before heading out to explore the rainforest. This tour will allow you to uncover the exotic secrets that lie within this secondary rainforest. The maximum altitude of this area is 1,900 feet. You will ride through the mountains without reaching the mountain top. Your horse ride lasts about 2.5 hours (round trip) and it will be highlighted by amazing valley views, verdant vegetation and numerous wildlife species such as birds and reptiles. At the end of the trail there is a beautiful waterfall where you will be able to rest for about 30 minutes. You can lie on the grass or take a swim or both! After the break, you will return by the same trail. Back to the stables; enjoy a refreshing beer and Costa Rican-style BBQ , just as a real cowboy would do! Please note : This tour is not suitable for guests without any horseback riding experience or who may not be comfortable around horses. Children riding alone must be at least 6 years old. Maximum weight for riders is 235 pounds. Bring suntan lotion, sunglasses, a camera, a hat/ visor, insect repellent and bathing suit. Wear long pants and comfortable hiking shoes. Signed waiver is required.

At the port you will be greeted by your naturalist guide and board the air conditioned bus for a relaxing 75-minute drive through the countryside. Along the way, your guide will provide you with fascinating information regarding Costa Rica's culture and history, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions. This is an exclusive tour into the elusive Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center , located in the town of Turrucares, an old fashioned town. Never before has a cruise ship guest had an all access pass to the most amazing fauna conservation effort in the country and had the chance to interact first hand with all the wildlife imaginable; toucans, hawks, monkeys, sloths, tamanduas, ant eaters, and parrots are some of the few animals you may encounter in this magical location where the foundation is working endlessly to restore all of these animals to good health so they can later be released back into the wild. At the conclusion of your unforgettable morning, you'll re-board your private coach and enjoy a delightful 30-minute ride through the countryside to Brasil de Mora, situated on the outskirts of San José. At Costa Rica's Craft Brewing Co . you will see first-hand how Costa Ricans have integrated their "pura vida" lifestyle into what has been considered one of the 100 best breweries in the world and see first-hand how the process to make quality beer is developed, and above all get to enjoy a beer tasting session with these fine brews. Finish off your tour with a hearty lunch of food cooked and stewed in the beer itself. Finally you will be dropped off at the Juan Santamaria International Airport. Please note : Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and credit card. This tour is for disembarking guests with flights 3 p.m. or later. This tour concludes at the airport.

Arriving to San Jose, the capital and largest city in Costa Rica, San Jose has a lot to offer its visitors that hail from around the world. It is a contrasted city with exhilarating expressions of history, traditions, art and architecture. The tour will begin with an initial orientation and drive through the beautiful Sabana Park. Next, you will take a walking tour through the historic National Theater. Completed in 1897, the theater is a masterpiece in art and architecture. Afterwards, you will visit one of the many unique museums of Costa Rica, The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum which has an extraordinary collection of gold objects that reflect the world view, social structure, and gold-working techniques of the Pre-Columbian peoples of Costa Rica. The exhibition showcases the use and function of the pieces, the technology of their fabrication, and their relationship to the natural world and the daily life of these societies. The collection consists of 1,600 pieces of Pre-Columbian gold work that date from 500 A.D. to 1500 A.D. After this extraordinary museum tour, you will continue heading to the National Museum, Atlantic Ferrocarril Station. Rail transport in Costa Rica is under the ownership of Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocarriles (INCOFER). The Estación al Atlántico (Atlantic Station) today serves as the San José hub for the commuter train to Heredia and Cartago provinces. Please note : Travel will be along winding roads. Earliest flight time is 3 p.m. to allow for 3-hour check-in required for international flights.

This is one of the most scenic regions of Costa Rica, known for calm seas and transparent waters, allowing for swimming and snorkeling close to shore. You will take a boat to the reserve where your naturalist tour guide will introduce you to a variety of wildlife that thrives here, including up to 200 species of birds, capuchin and howler monkeys as well as sloths and anteaters. The reserve includes 3 miles of coastline with beautiful white- sand beaches and tiny coves. Although it is a small reserve, two thirds is preserved as primary forest. Please note : Wear light clothes, hat or visor, sunscreen, bug repellent, sun glasses, and very comfortable walking shoes. Suggest guests purchase bottled water on board. Bring your towel, wear your bathing suit underneath your clothes and there are two toilets at the main entrance as well as two showers. We suggest not to swim on the beach due to crocodile sightings.

You'll have a 30-minute drive to the Congo Trail Private Reserve where your adventure will begin. A platform located at ground level will mark the beginning of your experience. Industry-approved, ultra-safe harness equipment and a network of steel cables that connect eight trees in the forest will be your road to excitement while you l earn the secrets of the dry forest. Gliding from tree to tree, you will have a birds-eye-view of the forest. The fauna is especially abundant here. Hundreds of different species of birds have been sighted, along with the howler monkey, many different snakes, coatis, and other mammals. At the end of the last cable, you will head back to earth and your ride back to your ship. Please note : This is a very active tour only recommended for guests who are in good physical condition. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Wet landing required. A waiver must be signed by all participants.

The Gulf of Papagayo is located in the northwestern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and is known for its beautiful beaches, its amazing year-round good weather, the abundant wildlife that lives in its waters and the wide variety of activities that visitors can be a part of while visiting this beautiful country. During this tour, you will sail aboard a beautiful catamaran through the waters of the Gulf of Papagayo , and discover its enchanting marine world: beautiful reefs, colorful and pristine beaches, dolphins, flying fish and other marine species that are only part of the spectacle you might witness during this adventure. You can even relax on the boat and sip delicious refreshing tropical drinks and snacks that are served by the crew as you simply enjoy and delight yourself with the amazing views of the ocean, the surrounding beaches and feel the marine breeze on your face. On arrival at Playa Heuvos there will be time to swim, snorkel or explore in the tranquil warm ocean. Please note : The catamaran is not wheelchair accessible. Bring your bathing suit and a towel and your own snorkel equipment if you wish.