Join Blue Planet for a week of world-class diving in Costa Rica. Experience the abundant richness of the Pacific Ocean and then relax at the volcanic hot springs.  

COSTA RICA

Costa Rica, the "Rich Coast," is widely recognized as one of the world’s most biodiverse nations. The small country is sandwiched between two oceans and is home to a number of ecosystems above and below the water. Costa Rica is fast becoming a hot spot scuba diving destination, particularly along its Pacific shores where you can encounter amazing pelagic life.

THE DIVING

Minimum dive certification/experience:  Perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. With multiple sites to choose from, there will always be diving that works with your skill level. 

 
The plankton-rich waters of the Gulf of Papagayo are home to numerous species from white tip reef sharks, harlequin clown shrimp, seahorses, and octopus to schooling eagle rays, the giant Pacific manta rays, or the Bull sharks at Bat Islands. Underwater pinnacles bring in large schools of fish, where if you are lucky enough you can be in the center of what the dive shops down there call a "super school". The reefs are volcanic rock pinnacles so don’t expect beautiful corals, but the multitude of colorful fish and marine life makes for exciting and fun diving. 

We will have 3 days of diving on the itinerary. Each day will consist of a 2 tank boat dive. The first day will be at the local Gulf of Papagayo and then after that (based on conditions and skill level) we can dive the Catalinas and the Bat Islands. Water temps should be around 78F and dives sites will range from 40 to 100ft in depth. Visibility ranges from 30ft to 100ft depending on the day.  

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Wildlife River Tour - On our way from the coast to Arenal, we will stop to visit the Palo Verde National Park. On a two-hour boat trip, we'll be introduced to the vital ecosystems within the park and have a chance to spot gigantic crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas and more. Into birdwatching? Be on the lookout for the Jabiru, osprey, the white ibis, tiger herons and scarlet macaws amongst others.
 

Arenal Hot springs - Located deep in the jungle next to the Arenal Volcano, the natural hot springs are a luxury we are sure to enjoy after a few days of diving! There are springs at our hotel and also one of our evening dinner spots!
 

ACCOMMODATIONS

Villas Sol: Saturday-Thursday

The all-inclusive Villa Sol Hotel and Beach Resort is located on the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica at Hermosa Beach. Located on the hilltop overlooking the Gulf of Papagayo, you will be amazed by the incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and stunning sunsets. Each of the 54 rooms faces the ocean and has a very large balcony. The restaurant and patio deck at the hotel pool have a stellar view of the Gulf providing spectacular sunsets. A cool-water jacuzzi and the main pool with swim-up bar and snack bar are situated just steps from the hotel between the hotel and villas. Catch a tram down to the beautiful Hermosa Beach. 

Arenal Manoa: Thursday-Saturday

The Arenal Manoa Hotel is a beautiful place to rest, relax and enjoy the restorative waters of the thermal pools while taking in the marvelous view of Arenal Volcano. Surrounded by gardens, pastures and animals, the rooms have been designed so that each one offers you a panoramic view of the volcano. Visitors can take advantage of the spacious gardens for walking, birdwatching and meditation combined with an opportunity to see the daily operations of a typical Costa Rican farm. All rooms have individual terraces with rocking chairs make it easy to connect with nature while viewing Arenal Volcano. 

TRAVEL

You should plan to fly into Liberia (LIR) on Saturday, November 12. You can fly home at any time on November 19. Please email or call the shop before booking your flight!

Upon cancellation of a reservation for any reason, the refund of the deposit and payments made or due will be contingent upon Blue Planet reselling the participant's reservation. Any refund may also be subject to a $200 cancellation fee and payment of any non-refundable fees imposed by the tour company, dive operator or any other contractor associated with the trip. 

Dive accident insurance is required for all divers on this trip. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your vacation investment. Contact us if you need more information.