Grab your camera and head off the beaten path with CAU favorite David Todd! From kaleidoscopic birds to slow-moving sloths, you’ll capture the soul of the rainforest on this unforgettable photographic adventure. Plus: your chance to sleep in a luxury treehouse!
Lens on Costa Rica:
A Photographic Adventure
June 11 – 18, 2026
Featuring David Todd ’06, Photographic Artist and eCornell course facilitator
with Jennifer Gioffre Todd, Photographic Artist and Manager of Art Studios
To register contact CAU partner Criterion Travel:
Phone: 888-328-2089 | Email: res@criteriontravel.com
Download the Brochure:
Rainforest, rivers, & amazing wildlife
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Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just picking up a camera for the first time, this tour is your gateway to something extraordinary. Costa Rica’s lush landscapes—turquoise waters, crystal-clear rivers, misty cloud forests, and vibrant wildlife—offer the ultimate canvas for your creativity. With beloved CAU instructor David Todd as your guide, you’ll sharpen your skills, discover new ways of seeing, and capture breathtaking images of an unforgettable adventure.
Tour details
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Start your journey here
More details including rates, terms, and hotel information is available when you download the brochure. For rates, see page 6.
Your faculty leader
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David Todd—together with Jennifer Gioffre Todd—has taught more than 100 CAU Summer students the art of photography across a range of techniques including nature photography, digital photography, and black & white 35mm photography. For this extraordinary journey, David will be on the ground in Costa Rica with CAU, while Jennifer, co-developer of the tour, will provide expertise during pre-tour elements and curate a special bonus feature for participants from back in Ithaca.
Expertise and exploration
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Into the heart of Maquenque
Explore the winding rivers and dense rainforest of Maquenque Wildlife Refuge, looking for three toed sloths, three species of monkeys, and four hundred species of birds.
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A paradise of flora and fauna
Spend two days at Monteverde’s complex ecosystem, perched atop the continental divide and sustained by moist clouds and fog.
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Dive into extraordinary photo ops
Capture nature and culture as you visit an organic farm to learn what it takes to farm organically in the tropics, experience the Hummingbird Gallery, and gain awareness of the ecological importance of bats in the Bat Jungle.
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Relax in this lush wonderland
Enjoy plenty of time to relax in this lush wonderland surrounded by the sights, sounds, and scents of flowers, dense foliage, and colorful wildlife.
Get in Gear
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A pre-tour class with David and Jen
In this interactive Zoom session, you will find out which gear works best for what, what type of camera is recommended, which lenses to consider packing, and get all of your gear-related questions answered. Date to be announced. This session will be recorded in case you're unable to make it.
Your experience day-by-day
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Thursday, June 11, 2026/Day 1: Depart from home city / arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica
Arrive in the capital city of San Jose. Transfer to the Marriott Hacienda Belen, and in the evening, join fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner.
(Meals included: Reception)
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Friday, June 12, 2026/Day 2: Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge
After breakfast, travel by coach to a biological field station for a guided walk, and to learn about the remarkable international research efforts underway. Following lunch, continue to a pineapple plantation and arrive at Maquenque Eco Lodge, set at the edge of Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge. The reserve holds important stands of virgin rainforest and was created in 2005 to serve as a critical wildlife corridor; it is one of the few remaining nesting areas for the endangered great green macaw.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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Saturday, June 13, 2026/Day 3: Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge
Start your day with an exhilarating morning birdwatching tour, spotting vibrant species as the rainforest comes to life. In the afternoon, cruise down the San Carlos River through the heart of the Wildlife Refuge—eyes peeled for crocodiles, tortoises, bats, herons, kingfishers, king vultures, and more. This day promises encounters with nature’s wonders and a deeper appreciation for the delicate rainforest ecosystem.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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Sunday, June 14, 2026/Day 4: Arenal
Today, join a rafting adventure down the exciting Class II/III rapids of the Balsa River, feeling the exhilarating rush of the water and soaking in views along the way. Following the river adventure, continue your journey to the scenic and check-in at Arenal Manoa Resort, your gateway to the wonders of the rainforest.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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Monday, June 15, 2026/Day 5: Arenal
This morning, venture into the treetops on a thrilling canopy walk with stunning views near the iconic Arenal Volcano, followed by a visit to a hidden rainforest waterfall. As night
falls, experience the rainforest in a new light with a captivating night walking tour, unveiling the mysteries of nocturnal flora and fauna. This day promises a perfect blend of adventure, education, and connection with nature.(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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Tuesday, June 16, 2026/Day 6: Monteverde Cloud Forest
After a morning birding walk and photography session, cross Lake Arenal by boat, then ascend the mountainous roads by van as you make your way to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a biodiversity hotspot. Stop at a coffee plantation en route. On arrival, choose between an optional zip line adventure or an afternoon at leisure.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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Wednesday, June 17, 2026/Day 7: Monteverde Cloud Forest
Gain a deeper understanding of sustainable practices with a visit to an organic farm for lunch. Walk in Monteverde’s cloud forest, gaining an appreciation for its diverse and rare plant and animal species. Visit the Hummingbird Gallery to understand the vital role these pollinators play in maintaining the ecosystem. Conclude your journey with a special farewell dinner.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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Thursday, June 18, 2026/Day 8: Depart for home
Transfer to Liberia Airport for your journey home, carrying with you vivid memories, stunning photographs, and the lasting glow of an extraordinary adventure.
(Meals included: Breakfast)
Get Registered
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For more information: contact CAU partner Criterion Travel at 888-328-2089 |
To register: Email res@criteriontravel.com | Register Online
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About traveling with CAU
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CAU is your first choice for in-depth, lifelong learning with Cornell faculty in the classroom and around the globe.
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We are committed to ensuring that CAU and Cornell Alumni Travel tours provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone. You can find the expectations that are applicable to all attendees of Cornell University alumni events, both on and off campus, by visiting this link.