Costa Rica travel: Be immersed in eco-paradise

In a world where conservation and preservation of the natural world is often overlooked, Costa Rica is one nation that bucks the trend. Visitors to the Central American country find a haven of cloud forests, tropical jungles and lush rainforests that are home to a vast array of wildlife, plants and natural resources - preserved by many dedicated conservation efforts. That's at the heart of what makes Costa Rica travel so special - and it's something that's easy for any traveler to experience.

If you've long dreamed of hiking through pristine tropical forests and speeding through the treetops on a zipline, Costa Rica offers the balance of serenity and excitement you're seeking. Costa Rica travel is made easier by visiting the country on a Tauck tour, which offers an abundance of activities that are suited for families and individuals alike.

Because Costa Rica is so rich in natural beauty and ecological heritage, it's important that your visit includes time spent with someone who can explain the fascinating intricacies of the wildlife and landscape. Tauck's tours include excursions with local experts who can give you an in-depth experience that provides unparalleled insight into the places you visit. A Costa Rica travel experience with Tauck gives you these rare and enriching experiences at a cost savings of as much as 40 percent, compared to independent travel.

There's a lot to see in Costa Rica, but a well-planned itinerary will show you the best of it all, and allow you to feel the rush of adventure as well as enjoy some time for relaxation. Make sure your Costa Rica travel adventure includes these sights and experiences:

* See the world from the treetops. The Monteverde Cloud Forest is an unforgettably beautiful expanse of nature that perfectly captures why Costa Rica's environment is so treasured. Take a "skywalk" along suspended bridges, looking for some of the park's wild residents like howler monkeys and sloths. The forest is also rich with insect and bird life, so bring your binoculars.

* Visit a coffee plantation. Costa Rica's coffee is justifiably world famous, thanks to the ideal conditions for growing perfect beans. Costa Rica travel with Tauck will take you to a coffee plantation, where you can learn the fascinating process that goes into producing a world-class cup of joe.

* Explore different ecosystems in Costa Rica. The landscapes of Costa Rica are a bit like a living classroom. You'll learn all about the delicate balances of nature on your trip, such as a visit to Arenal National Park, home to the most active volcano in Costa Rica; a trip to a cloud forest; a float trip on an inland jungle river - and more.

* Get adventurous. You'll find so many different Costa Rica travel adventures throughout the country. The exceptional opportunities in Costa Rica include white water rafting, ziplining or taking a walk on bridges suspended in the rainforest canopy - they shouldn't be missed.

For more information about the great sites to see on a Costa Rica travel adventure, visit www.tauck.com