September 1-10 2026 Costa Rica
Embark on a unique journey to Costa Rica's heart, a paradise teeming with fascinating reptiles and amphibians.This Dreamcatchers adventure caters to herpetology enthusiasts, especially those who love turtles! This adventure will offer an unparalleled opportunity to encounter some of these amazing and beautiful animals!
Our trip co-leader and special guest will be turtle expert and world class illustrator Matt Patterson.
About Matt Patterson: There's almost no distance Matt won't go, almost nothing he won't do, to learn all he can about his subjects to make his paintings of wild animals as accurate and lifelike as possible. He’s caught alligators with his bare hands from a kayak. He has pulled giant snapping turtles out of Boston’s muddy river, worked with the Turtle Survival Alliance experts to survey radiated tortoises in Madagascar’s Spiny Forest, and trapped and tagged turtles in the rainforest of Belize.
Matt is a member of Artists For Conservation and is a Fellow in The Explorer’s Club. He is the illustrator for the NY Times bestselling book OF TIME AND TURTLES and the national award-winning book, THE BOOK OF TURTLES. His work has been featured in Yankee Magazine, Fine Art Connoisseur and has won numerous awards including twice winning the Roger Tory Peterson Wild American Art award and two National Outdoor Book Awards. He lives with his wife, Erin; their two dogs, two cats, two snakes and thirteen turtles. 👩🏻🤝👨🏼🐶🐶🐈🐈🐍🐍🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢
The Dreamcatchers blind itinerary Experience
When you travel with The Dreamcatchers, you're not just booking a trip; you're embarking on a unique adventure where the itinerary is a secret that is revealed to you gradually each day. This element of surprise allows you to truly disconnect, let go of expectations, and fully immerse yourself in the present moment.
In a Dreamcatchers’ journey all your needs are taken care of and we’ll travel in comfort as the natural beauty of Costa Rica unveils day by day. Imagine waking up each morning with a sense of anticipation, ready to discover the wonders that await. Every moment is a chance for unexpected joy.
A Dreamcatchers trip is more than just sightseeing; it's an invitation to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Let go of control, embrace the unknown, and discover the magic that unfolds on this extraordinary journey. Read more about the Dreamcatchers Experience and check out our testimonials.
Testimonials of our other trips: Coffee & Birds
Highlights of this Trip
Explore a Breathtaking Display of Biodiversity: Costa Rica boasts an incredible reptile and amphibian population, with countless species waiting to be discovered. We'll explore pristine rainforests, lush wetlands, and serene coastlines, each providing unique habitats for these remarkable species.
Expert Herpetological Guidance: Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through the most biodiverse regions, assisting you in spotting a variety of animals, from basking lizards to colorful tree frogs, to hidden turtles and even the occasional venomous snake (don't worry, from a safe distance!). We'll venture beyond typical tourist spots, uncovering secluded locations full of amazing Costa Rican biodiversity.
Unforgettable Adventures: Costa Rica's diverse landscape offers a visual feast as we travel between destinations. Our carefully chosen routes are scenic masterpieces, featuring secret pit stops where you can discover art, explore nature's beauty, and savor delicious local cuisine. Travel in comfort aboard our spacious, air-conditioned van, stocked with beverages, snacks, and fresh fruits.
Visit a real Costa Rican coffee farm and learn the beautiful process of artisanal coffee.
Coffee Immersion: Costa Rica's world-renowned coffee scene features prominently on this trip. We'll delve into the world of coffee by visiting a local farm, where you'll learn about sustainable practices and the impact coffee has on Costa Rica's history, culture, and economy.
Up-Close Encounters: Get ready for incredible reptile and amphibian photography opportunities! Our guides will position you for stunning views of nesting sea turtles, iguanas basking in the sun, and beautiful tree frogs camouflaged amongst the foliage.
Relaxation & Camaraderie: Unwind after a day of exploration in comfortable, unique accommodations. Savor delicious, authentic Costa Rican cuisine and connect with fellow reptile enthusiasts, sharing experiences and forging new friendships.
Paint along with award-winning wildlife artist Matt Patterson! Enjoy painting while immersed in the beautiful scenery of Costa Rica. Whether you're an experienced artist or a complete beginner, Matt will expertly guide you as you do your own unique watercolor painting and learn to capture the beautiful wildlife of Costa Rica.
Unforgettable Experiences: We curate surprise-and-delight moments, from discovering hidden waterfalls to encountering friendly locals and savoring incredible food.
Travel Like a Local: Discover unique natural wonders and hidden secrets beyond the tourist trail.
Expert Guidance: Professional guides will be with you every step of the way.
Explore Protected Areas: Delve into Costa Rica's national parks and biological reserves.
Scenic Drives: Witness breathtaking landscapes that will inspire awe.
Comfy Transportation: Travel in air-conditioned comfort.
Unique Accommodations: Relax in comfortable and unique lodgings.
Diverse Microclimates: Explore a variety of habitats teeming with life.
Sustainable Practices: Learn about bird-friendly coffee and cacao farming.
Local Interactions: Meet and interact with inspiring local artisans.
Culinary Delights: Savor delicious, authentic meals throughout the day.
Wildlife Encounters: Observe monkeys, toucans, sloths, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians.
Positive Connections: Build friendships with like-minded adventurers.
Relaxation & Rejuvenation: Fully unwind and embrace the Costa Rican tranquility.
Let go and feel The Dreamcatchers Experience.
Smiles Are Our Compass
Your happiness is our priority. This trip offers a balance of activity and relaxation, allowing ample time for exploring and enjoying the beauty of nature. Prepare to fall in love with Costa Rica and experience the thrill of discovering its incredible reptiles and amphibians.
The pace of this trip is both active and relaxed, with ample time dedicated to easy physical adventures combined with relaxing time off to enjoy the calm beauty of nature. Balance and flow are the key elements of the Dreamcatchers experience.
Join us on Coffee & Turtles in Paradise and embark on an unforgettable herpetological adventure!
Testimonials
Ignacio and The Dreamcatchers changed my life. I was in a rut and needed something to wake me up out of my funk. Ignacio read my mind and gave me an experience that not only changed my perspective but made me realize how wonderfully spontaneous life can still be. The trip made me more open to new experiences, more optimistic about people and simply more happy the weeks and months that followed. Do yourself a favor and call The Dreamcatchers.
David, 2018
Availability: September 1-10, 2025
Cost: $5,999 single room or $5,499 double shared accommodations.
Includes: White glove experience with all meals included, beautiful and comfortable accommodations throughout, private transportation, art classes and supplies with Matt Patterson, airport pickup & dropoff, all tours, activities.
Duration: 9 nights, 10 days
Maximum number of guests: 12
Trip Leader & Guide: Ignacio Oreamuno
Driver: Javier Solano
Transportation: Private Deluxe Bus “The DreamMachine”
Questions? ignacio@thedreamcatchers.co
Ignacio Oreamuno - The Dreamatchers
Matt Patterson - award-winning illustrator
Javier Solano is our professional driver.
“To travel is to live”
Photo by Phil Brown
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should come on this trip?
"Birds & Turtles in Paradise" is designed for adventurous travelers that love comfortably exploring the beauty of nature, meeting new people, and eating delicious food while exploring one of the most beautiful country in the world.
This trip is suited for anyone that wants to get a true insider's view into Costa Rica's ecological wonders, culture and food. The trip will have be especially geared toward finding and enjoying the diversity of herpetofauna the country’s varied habitats host. We will also spend time visiting and learning about bird-friendly practices on coffee farms, as well as seeing all kinds of wildlife from birds to mammals.
What level of physical activity is required for this Dreamcatchers trip?
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Costa Rica with walks designed to enhance your experience, not challenge your endurance. We'll keep a relaxed pace, with plenty of breaks to soak in the sights and sounds. A basic level of fitness is recommended, but all walks are optional. We believe the best way to connect with nature is at a pace that allows you to truly appreciate it."
Is there free time?
Yes. the rhythm of the trip allows for free time each day to relax, nap, call home, or do anything you please. We will take great care not to over book each day and provide you with ample alone time – if that is what you seek.
I have food and dietary restrictions, am I going to be ok?
Yes. Prior to the trip we'll be collecting your dietary preferences and restrictions and we’ll cater to these needs as best as possible.
Will I be able to connect with my phone?
Yes. Costa Rica has a strong mobile network and most phones will have coverage even in the most remotes part we'll visit. In addition to that most or all of the places we'll be staying will have wifi. We'll ensure you have connectivity most of the time.
Do I need to know Spanish?
Not at all! You'll be in the company of two guides that are all fluent in English and Spanish. In addition, a lot of people speak English in Costa Rica. By the end of the trip however, we expect you'll know many new words!
Pipa = Coconut in Costa Rica. Vamos a tomar muchas pipas frias en la playa! We're going to drink a lot of cold coconut water at the beach!
What is our transportation like?
We will be traveling on the awesome deluxe Dreamcatchers bus (AKA The DreamMachine). It's got great comfortable seating, air conditioner, good music, snacks, and Javier our awesome full-time professional driver.
We'll be driving leisurely and making lots of pitstops along the way for snacks, coffee (of course) and bathroom breaks.
What kind of gear do I need for this trip?
We will be providing all our guests with detailed list of gear for each specific trip. I will be very specific about what you need so you won't need to worry about being under or over packed.
What is your all-inclusive policy?
We want to minimize the amount of times you reach for cash. All hotels and accommodations, meals, tours, tips for local guides, outdoor activities, bus snacks, fruits, and water, will all be included!
What is not included?
Tips for your main trip leader (Ignacio) and driver (Javier) Alcoholic beverages Items of personal nature Flights to and from Costa Rica. In addition, it is strongly recommended that you arrive at least a day or two before the trip begins and the cost of those hotel nights and meals is on you rown.
What happens when I arrive in Costa Rica?
We will personally be there to pick all our guests at the airport and whisk you off on the adventure. At the conclusion of the trip we will also drop off all our guests at the airport. We'll always be there taking good care of you.
What's the weather like?
The temperature will vary drastically depending on where we are, ranging from high 80's (30° Celcius) in the beach, to a cool 65 in the high altitudes of the mountains (18°).