Costa Rica – The ultimate wildlife destination

An endangered, Elephant Beetle (Megasoma elephas), the size of a hamster, has been found at a London-based, banana packing factory after surviving the journey from Costa Rica. The fruit-loving male beetle has now been re-housed at Linton Zoo near Cambridge and is currently on the lookout for a mate!

Not only is Costa Rica the world’s most bio-diverse country and home to one of the world’s largest insects, it also offers other unique wildlife species including Resplendent Quetzal, sacred bird of the Mayans, Jaguar, Puma and Atlantic Green Turtle.

Wildlife Worldwide offer a 13-day Costa Rican Odyssey tour exploring lush rainforests, active volcanoes and unique wildlife, departing London daily throughout 2008.

An initial night is spent at San Gildar Hotel located in an historic and picturesque area of San Jose. Next day, travellers are driven to Braulio Carrillo National Park where the Aerial Tram offers a different perspective on to the expanse of rainforest below, home to over 340 bird species, together with Howler and White-faced Monkeys, Tapir, Jaguar, Puma, Ocelot and Paca. Continuing by road and boat to Tortuguero National Park, 2-nights are spent exploring the vast area of untouched tropical rainforest on foot and by boat. Between July and September, night tours allow for observation of nesting Atlantic Green Turtle.

After collecting your 4WD, head to Arenal National Park and the world's most active volcano. On a clear night, observe magnificent views of Arenal Volcano from the hotel – with possible explosions and flowing lava. Continue to the protected Monteverde Cloud Forest, a reserve of some 4,500 hectares.

The Resplendent Quetzal, sacred bird of the Mayans, considered by many to be the most beautiful bird in the world, is regularly seen between January and July, together with Emerald Toucanet and both White-faced, and Howler Monkeys. Drive to the Pacific Coast and the Gulf of Nicoya. Here, guided birding tours amongst tropical dry forest and seasonal marshes provide excellent opportunities to see vast concentrations of heron, duck, and spoonbill gathering during the dry season. Return to San Jose to drop off the jeep, spending a night at the San Gildar Hotel before homeward flights next day.

The tour costs from £1,495 p/p including scheduled flights, private transfers, lodge and hotel accommodation, most meals, 4WD vehicle hire (days 5 to 11) and expert wildlife guiding.

For more information, visit Wildlifeworldwide.com.