Matthew Houde's Blog, page 41
January 13, 2013
Costa Rica: Your One-Week Itinerary
Costa Rica might look small on a map, but don’t be fooled, you can’t see everything in just one week. With some careful planning, however, you can still have a vacation of a lifetime that showcases what Costa Rica is all about: nature, adventure, and pura vida. Here’s an itinerary that will give you just that.
Day 1: San José to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
From the San José airport, rent a car, take a shuttle/tour van, or bus it to the town of La Fortuna. Along the way you will traverse rolling green mountains of coffee plantations, cattle fields, and the occasional dense forest. The narrow road winds through small cities and quaint towns. Getting closer to La Fortuna, you’ll start to see the volcano looming in the distance. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodations and take in the view. La Fortuna has a very walkable downtown complete with a charming central park. Explore the streets and shops before you grab dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Tip: If you fly in late, stay in the city of Alajuela. It’s very close to the airport, boasts a plethora of reasonable accommodations, and also has plenty of good restaurants and shops to explore.
La Fortuna
Day 2: Hiking in Arenal National Park
Getting There: Arenal National Park encompasses 29,692 acres but is accessed through one primary ranger station (US $10 pp). There is parking available for your rental car, or a taxi can drop you off. The shoestring traveler can take the public bus from the main station in La Fortuna for only a couple of dollars. The bus will drop you off at the main road; it’s about a 20-30 minute walk to the park entrance.
About the Park: The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. The trails are mostly flat, so it’s a good option for kids and people with limited mobility. There are four trails in total, some of which intersect. Take the Los Heliconias trail to the lookout for a great view of the volcano and also sweeping views of Lake Arenal. Read our blog on Hiking in Arenal National Park for more details.
Depending on how early you access the park and how many trails you explore, this can be a half-day or full-day expedition. If you are the early type, fill up your afternoon driving around Lake Arenal or explore some of the shops in downtown La Fortuna.
Tip: There are many private trails nearby if you want to keep hiking. Arenal 1968 trail near the park entrance is a bit more challenging, but passes through decades-old former lava fields.
Day 3: Hanging bridges and relaxing hot springs
Hanging Bridges: You might be a little sore after your hike in the park yesterday, but you’ll want to power through to see Arenal’s Hanging Bridges. Along the trail, there are 16 bridges of varying lengths from eight to 98 meters. The trail and bridges will take you high up in the rainforest canopy, giving you a spectacular view and the chance to spot birds and wildlife less visible from the ground. Make sure to charge up your camera battery for this one.
Hot Springs: After you’re done, it’s time to reward your body with the famous Arenal hot springs. Several are available depending on your budget. Tabacon Resort has a beautiful facility, which you can explore for US $60 a day. For the budget-minded, don’t fret, the springs are naturally occurring so there are some free options as well. Just ask a local to point you in the right direction.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio
Get up early and grab some gallo pinto (the Costa Rican breakfast of champions) because you’ve got a long journey to the Pacific coast ahead. Don’t worry, though, it’s well worth the five to six-hour drive. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, tour vans (Grayline; Interbus) are a good option. Tempted to save some money by taking the public bus? You might want to rethink that. To get a bus to Manuel Antonio, you have to go all the way back to San José, turning a five-hour trip into a 10+ hour trip. Shuttle vans are very affordable (US $35 to $50), and you won’t lose a whole day of your precious vacation. To save even more time, take a small plane from La Fortuna to Quepos (Nature Air; TACA Regional). The views from six to nine-thousand feet up are spectacular and the ride near the windy mountains of San José is an adventure in itself.
Tip: Travel days like this are the reason it’s tough to see the whole country in a limited amount of time. Don’t try to accomplish too much in one day. Pair your travel day with a relaxing dinner or a beach chair, that way you’ll be charged up to enjoy your next day. You are on vacation, right?
Day 5: Zip-line adventure and sunset dinner
Zip-line Tour: Arrange a zip-line excursion through your hotel or contact the office directly. These tours will pick you up, give you a ride into the countryside, feed you breakfast or lunch, and outfit you for a great zip-lining adventure.
Visit Quepos: After you’ve flown through the trees, ask the tour operator to drop you off on solid ground in Quepos (the small city next to Manuel Antonio). In Quepos, browse local shops and the outdoor market along the seawall or grab a cup of coffee at Café Milagro. You can easily catch the bus back to Manuel Antonio when you’re done at the central bus terminal (< US $1).
Dinner: For dinner, ride out to Ronnie’s Place. Ronnie’s Place is located on a narrow peninsula between Quepos and Manuel Antonio. It’s a wonderful restaurant with a spectacular sunset view. Get there early and grab a table outside for the best view. This is one of our top five things to do in the area.
Tip: You might want to take a taxi to Ronnie’s Place; the road is rough and the cocktails are strong.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s most visited park and for good reason. Here you can easily see monkeys, sloths, birds, and butterflies. As an added benefit, there are beautiful beaches for swimming and picnicking. Be sure to get there early, though; not only will you have a better chance to see wildlife, but you will beat the crowds.
After the park, grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach, we suggest Marlin, and spend the last full day of your vacation splashing in the waves on Playa Espadilla.
Tip: These adventures may have you hitting the snooze button at 9 a.m., but remember, birds and animals get up with the sun. To increase your wildlife sightings, get some coffee and hit the trail early; you’ll be happy you did.
Day 7: Back to reality
Hopefully your trip was a success and you can reminisce about the wonderful sights, generous people, and extraordinary environment you experienced while you travel back to San José. A one-week vacation surely isn’t enough, so when you book your next trip, make sure you read our blog, Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary. ¡Pura vida!
Are you back?
What was your favorite part of the trip? Was a week long enough for the relaxing pura vida vibe to set in?
We’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, check out our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon
Day 1: San José to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
From the San José airport, rent a car, take a shuttle/tour van, or bus it to the town of La Fortuna. Along the way you will traverse rolling green mountains of coffee plantations, cattle fields, and the occasional dense forest. The narrow road winds through small cities and quaint towns. Getting closer to La Fortuna, you’ll start to see the volcano looming in the distance. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodations and take in the view. La Fortuna has a very walkable downtown complete with a charming central park. Explore the streets and shops before you grab dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Tip: If you fly in late, stay in the city of Alajuela. It’s very close to the airport, boasts a plethora of reasonable accommodations, and also has plenty of good restaurants and shops to explore.
La Fortuna Day 2: Hiking in Arenal National Park
Getting There: Arenal National Park encompasses 29,692 acres but is accessed through one primary ranger station (US $10 pp). There is parking available for your rental car, or a taxi can drop you off. The shoestring traveler can take the public bus from the main station in La Fortuna for only a couple of dollars. The bus will drop you off at the main road; it’s about a 20-30 minute walk to the park entrance.
About the Park: The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. The trails are mostly flat, so it’s a good option for kids and people with limited mobility. There are four trails in total, some of which intersect. Take the Los Heliconias trail to the lookout for a great view of the volcano and also sweeping views of Lake Arenal. Read our blog on Hiking in Arenal National Park for more details.
Depending on how early you access the park and how many trails you explore, this can be a half-day or full-day expedition. If you are the early type, fill up your afternoon driving around Lake Arenal or explore some of the shops in downtown La Fortuna.
Tip: There are many private trails nearby if you want to keep hiking. Arenal 1968 trail near the park entrance is a bit more challenging, but passes through decades-old former lava fields.
Day 3: Hanging bridges and relaxing hot springs
Hanging Bridges: You might be a little sore after your hike in the park yesterday, but you’ll want to power through to see Arenal’s Hanging Bridges. Along the trail, there are 16 bridges of varying lengths from eight to 98 meters. The trail and bridges will take you high up in the rainforest canopy, giving you a spectacular view and the chance to spot birds and wildlife less visible from the ground. Make sure to charge up your camera battery for this one.
Hot Springs: After you’re done, it’s time to reward your body with the famous Arenal hot springs. Several are available depending on your budget. Tabacon Resort has a beautiful facility, which you can explore for US $60 a day. For the budget-minded, don’t fret, the springs are naturally occurring so there are some free options as well. Just ask a local to point you in the right direction.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio
Get up early and grab some gallo pinto (the Costa Rican breakfast of champions) because you’ve got a long journey to the Pacific coast ahead. Don’t worry, though, it’s well worth the five to six-hour drive. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, tour vans (Grayline; Interbus) are a good option. Tempted to save some money by taking the public bus? You might want to rethink that. To get a bus to Manuel Antonio, you have to go all the way back to San José, turning a five-hour trip into a 10+ hour trip. Shuttle vans are very affordable (US $35 to $50), and you won’t lose a whole day of your precious vacation. To save even more time, take a small plane from La Fortuna to Quepos (Nature Air; TACA Regional). The views from six to nine-thousand feet up are spectacular and the ride near the windy mountains of San José is an adventure in itself.
Tip: Travel days like this are the reason it’s tough to see the whole country in a limited amount of time. Don’t try to accomplish too much in one day. Pair your travel day with a relaxing dinner or a beach chair, that way you’ll be charged up to enjoy your next day. You are on vacation, right?
Day 5: Zip-line adventure and sunset dinner
Zip-line Tour: Arrange a zip-line excursion through your hotel or contact the office directly. These tours will pick you up, give you a ride into the countryside, feed you breakfast or lunch, and outfit you for a great zip-lining adventure.
Visit Quepos: After you’ve flown through the trees, ask the tour operator to drop you off on solid ground in Quepos (the small city next to Manuel Antonio). In Quepos, browse local shops and the outdoor market along the seawall or grab a cup of coffee at Café Milagro. You can easily catch the bus back to Manuel Antonio when you’re done at the central bus terminal (< US $1).
Dinner: For dinner, ride out to Ronnie’s Place. Ronnie’s Place is located on a narrow peninsula between Quepos and Manuel Antonio. It’s a wonderful restaurant with a spectacular sunset view. Get there early and grab a table outside for the best view. This is one of our top five things to do in the area.
Tip: You might want to take a taxi to Ronnie’s Place; the road is rough and the cocktails are strong.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s most visited park and for good reason. Here you can easily see monkeys, sloths, birds, and butterflies. As an added benefit, there are beautiful beaches for swimming and picnicking. Be sure to get there early, though; not only will you have a better chance to see wildlife, but you will beat the crowds.
After the park, grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach, we suggest Marlin, and spend the last full day of your vacation splashing in the waves on Playa Espadilla.
Tip: These adventures may have you hitting the snooze button at 9 a.m., but remember, birds and animals get up with the sun. To increase your wildlife sightings, get some coffee and hit the trail early; you’ll be happy you did.
Day 7: Back to reality Hopefully your trip was a success and you can reminisce about the wonderful sights, generous people, and extraordinary environment you experienced while you travel back to San José. A one-week vacation surely isn’t enough, so when you book your next trip, make sure you read our blog, Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary. ¡Pura vida!
Are you back?
What was your favorite part of the trip? Was a week long enough for the relaxing pura vida vibe to set in?
We’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, check out our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon
COSTA RICA: YOUR ONE-WEEK ITINERARY
Costa Rica might look small on a map, but don’t be fooled, you can’t see everything in just one week. With some careful planning, however, you can still have a vacation of a lifetime that showcases what Costa Rica is all about: nature, adventure, and pura vida. Here’s an itinerary that will give you just that.
Day 1: San José to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
From the San José airport, rent a car, take a shuttle/tour van, or bus it to the town of La Fortuna. Along the way you will traverse rolling green mountains of coffee plantations, cattle fields, and the occasional dense forest. The narrow road winds through small cities and quaint towns. Getting closer to La Fortuna, you’ll start to see the volcano looming in the distance. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodations and take in the view. La Fortuna has a very walkable downtown complete with a charming central park. Explore the streets and shops before you grab dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Tip: If you fly in late, stay in the city of Alajuela. It’s very close to the airport, boasts a plethora of reasonable accommodations, and also has plenty of good restaurants and shops to explore.
La Fortuna
Day 2: Hiking in Arenal National Park
Getting There: Arenal National Park encompasses 29,692 acres but is accessed through one primary ranger station (US $10 pp). There is parking available for your rental car, or a taxi can drop you off. The shoestring traveler can take the public bus from the main station in La Fortuna for only a couple of dollars. The bus will drop you off at the main road; it’s about a 20-30 minute walk to the park entrance.
About the Park: The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. The trails are mostly flat, so it’s a good option for kids and people with limited mobility. There are four trails in total, some of which intersect. Take the Los Heliconias trail to the lookout for a great view of the volcano and also sweeping views of Lake Arenal. Read our blog on Hiking in Arenal National Park for more details.
Depending on how early you access the park and how many trails you explore, this can be a half-day or full-day expedition. If you are the early type, fill up your afternoon driving around Lake Arenal or explore some of the shops in downtown La Fortuna.
Tip: There are many private trails nearby if you want to keep hiking. Arenal 1968 trail near the park entrance is a bit more challenging, but passes through decades-old former lava fields.
Day 3: Hanging bridges and relaxing hot springs
Hanging Bridges: You might be a little sore after your hike in the park yesterday, but you’ll want to power through to see Arenal’s Hanging Bridges. Along the trail, there are 16 bridges of varying lengths from eight to 98 meters. The trail and bridges will take you high up in the rainforest canopy, giving you a spectacular view and the chance to spot birds and wildlife less visible from the ground. Make sure to charge up your camera battery for this one.
Hot Springs: After you’re done, it’s time to reward your body with the famous Arenal hot springs. Several are available depending on your budget. Tabacon Resort has a beautiful facility, which you can explore for US $60 a day. For the budget-minded, don’t fret, the springs are naturally occurring so there are some free options as well. Just ask a local to point you in the right direction.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio
Get up early and grab some gallo pinto (the Costa Rican breakfast of champions) because you’ve got a long journey to the Pacific coast ahead. Don’t worry, though, it’s well worth the five to six-hour drive. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, tour vans (Grayline; Interbus) are a good option. Tempted to save some money by taking the public bus? You might want to rethink that. To get a bus to Manuel Antonio, you have to go all the way back to San José, turning a five-hour trip into a 10+ hour trip. Shuttle vans are very affordable (US $35 to $50), and you won’t lose a whole day of your precious vacation. To save even more time, take a small plane from La Fortuna to Quepos (Nature Air; TACA Regional). The views from six to nine-thousand feet up are spectacular and the ride near the windy mountains of San José is an adventure in itself.
Tip: Travel days like this are the reason it’s tough to see the whole country in a limited amount of time. Don’t try to accomplish too much in one day. Pair your travel day with a relaxing dinner or a beach chair, that way you’ll be charged up to enjoy your next day. You are on vacation, right?
Day 5: Zip-line adventure and sunset dinner
Zip-line Tour: Arrange a zip-line excursion through your hotel or contact the office directly. These tours will pick you up, give you a ride into the countryside, feed you breakfast or lunch, and outfit you for a great zip-lining adventure.
Visit Quepos: After you’ve flown through the trees, ask the tour operator to drop you off on solid ground in Quepos (the small city next to Manuel Antonio). In Quepos, browse local shops and the outdoor market along the seawall or grab a cup of coffee at Café Milagro. You can easily catch the bus back to Manuel Antonio when you’re done at the central bus terminal (< US $1).
Dinner: For dinner, ride out to Ronnie’s Place. Ronnie’s Place is located on a narrow peninsula between Quepos and Manuel Antonio. It’s a wonderful restaurant with a spectacular sunset view. Get there early and grab a table outside for the best view. This is one of our top five things to do in the area.
Tip: You might want to take a taxi to Ronnie’s Place; the road is rough and the cocktails are strong.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s most visited park and for good reason. Here you can easily see monkeys, sloths, birds, and butterflies. As an added benefit, there are beautiful beaches for swimming and picnicking. Be sure to get there early, though; not only will you have a better chance to see wildlife, but you will beat the crowds.
After the park, grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach, we suggest Marlin, and spend the last full day of your vacation splashing in the waves on Playa Espadilla.
Tip: These adventures may have you hitting the snooze button at 9 a.m., but remember, birds and animals get up with the sun. To increase your wildlife sightings, get some coffee and hit the trail early; you’ll be happy you did.
Day 7: Back to reality
Hopefully your trip was a success and you can reminisce about the wonderful sights, generous people, and extraordinary environment you experienced while you travel back to San José. A one-week vacation surely isn’t enough, so when you book your next trip, make sure you read our blog, Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary. ¡Pura vida!
Are you back?
What was your favorite part of the trip? Was a week long enough for the relaxing pura vida vibe to set in?
We’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, check out our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon
Day 1: San José to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
From the San José airport, rent a car, take a shuttle/tour van, or bus it to the town of La Fortuna. Along the way you will traverse rolling green mountains of coffee plantations, cattle fields, and the occasional dense forest. The narrow road winds through small cities and quaint towns. Getting closer to La Fortuna, you’ll start to see the volcano looming in the distance. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodations and take in the view. La Fortuna has a very walkable downtown complete with a charming central park. Explore the streets and shops before you grab dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Tip: If you fly in late, stay in the city of Alajuela. It’s very close to the airport, boasts a plethora of reasonable accommodations, and also has plenty of good restaurants and shops to explore.
La Fortuna Day 2: Hiking in Arenal National Park
Getting There: Arenal National Park encompasses 29,692 acres but is accessed through one primary ranger station (US $10 pp). There is parking available for your rental car, or a taxi can drop you off. The shoestring traveler can take the public bus from the main station in La Fortuna for only a couple of dollars. The bus will drop you off at the main road; it’s about a 20-30 minute walk to the park entrance.
About the Park: The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. The trails are mostly flat, so it’s a good option for kids and people with limited mobility. There are four trails in total, some of which intersect. Take the Los Heliconias trail to the lookout for a great view of the volcano and also sweeping views of Lake Arenal. Read our blog on Hiking in Arenal National Park for more details.
Depending on how early you access the park and how many trails you explore, this can be a half-day or full-day expedition. If you are the early type, fill up your afternoon driving around Lake Arenal or explore some of the shops in downtown La Fortuna.
Tip: There are many private trails nearby if you want to keep hiking. Arenal 1968 trail near the park entrance is a bit more challenging, but passes through decades-old former lava fields.
Day 3: Hanging bridges and relaxing hot springs
Hanging Bridges: You might be a little sore after your hike in the park yesterday, but you’ll want to power through to see Arenal’s Hanging Bridges. Along the trail, there are 16 bridges of varying lengths from eight to 98 meters. The trail and bridges will take you high up in the rainforest canopy, giving you a spectacular view and the chance to spot birds and wildlife less visible from the ground. Make sure to charge up your camera battery for this one.
Hot Springs: After you’re done, it’s time to reward your body with the famous Arenal hot springs. Several are available depending on your budget. Tabacon Resort has a beautiful facility, which you can explore for US $60 a day. For the budget-minded, don’t fret, the springs are naturally occurring so there are some free options as well. Just ask a local to point you in the right direction.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio
Get up early and grab some gallo pinto (the Costa Rican breakfast of champions) because you’ve got a long journey to the Pacific coast ahead. Don’t worry, though, it’s well worth the five to six-hour drive. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, tour vans (Grayline; Interbus) are a good option. Tempted to save some money by taking the public bus? You might want to rethink that. To get a bus to Manuel Antonio, you have to go all the way back to San José, turning a five-hour trip into a 10+ hour trip. Shuttle vans are very affordable (US $35 to $50), and you won’t lose a whole day of your precious vacation. To save even more time, take a small plane from La Fortuna to Quepos (Nature Air; TACA Regional). The views from six to nine-thousand feet up are spectacular and the ride near the windy mountains of San José is an adventure in itself.
Tip: Travel days like this are the reason it’s tough to see the whole country in a limited amount of time. Don’t try to accomplish too much in one day. Pair your travel day with a relaxing dinner or a beach chair, that way you’ll be charged up to enjoy your next day. You are on vacation, right?
Day 5: Zip-line adventure and sunset dinner
Zip-line Tour: Arrange a zip-line excursion through your hotel or contact the office directly. These tours will pick you up, give you a ride into the countryside, feed you breakfast or lunch, and outfit you for a great zip-lining adventure.
Visit Quepos: After you’ve flown through the trees, ask the tour operator to drop you off on solid ground in Quepos (the small city next to Manuel Antonio). In Quepos, browse local shops and the outdoor market along the seawall or grab a cup of coffee at Café Milagro. You can easily catch the bus back to Manuel Antonio when you’re done at the central bus terminal (< US $1).
Dinner: For dinner, ride out to Ronnie’s Place. Ronnie’s Place is located on a narrow peninsula between Quepos and Manuel Antonio. It’s a wonderful restaurant with a spectacular sunset view. Get there early and grab a table outside for the best view. This is one of our top five things to do in the area.
Tip: You might want to take a taxi to Ronnie’s Place; the road is rough and the cocktails are strong.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s most visited park and for good reason. Here you can easily see monkeys, sloths, birds, and butterflies. As an added benefit, there are beautiful beaches for swimming and picnicking. Be sure to get there early, though; not only will you have a better chance to see wildlife, but you will beat the crowds.
After the park, grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach, we suggest Marlin, and spend the last full day of your vacation splashing in the waves on Playa Espadilla.
Tip: These adventures may have you hitting the snooze button at 9 a.m., but remember, birds and animals get up with the sun. To increase your wildlife sightings, get some coffee and hit the trail early; you’ll be happy you did.
Day 7: Back to reality Hopefully your trip was a success and you can reminisce about the wonderful sights, generous people, and extraordinary environment you experienced while you travel back to San José. A one-week vacation surely isn’t enough, so when you book your next trip, make sure you read our blog, Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary. ¡Pura vida!
Are you back?
What was your favorite part of the trip? Was a week long enough for the relaxing pura vida vibe to set in?
We’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, check out our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon
COSTA RICA—YOUR ONE-WEEK ITINERARY
Costa Rica might look small on a map, but don’t be fooled, you can’t see everything in just one week. With some careful planning, however, you can still have a vacation of a lifetime that showcases what Costa Rica is all about: nature, adventure, and pura vida. Here’s an itinerary that will give you just that.
Day 1: San José to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
From the San José airport, rent a car, take a shuttle/tour van, or bus it to the town of La Fortuna. Along the way you will traverse rolling green mountains of coffee plantations, cattle fields, and the occasional dense forest. The narrow road winds through small cities and quaint towns. Getting closer to La Fortuna, you’ll start to see the volcano looming in the distance. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodations and take in the view. La Fortuna has a very walkable downtown complete with a charming central park. Explore the streets and shops before you grab dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Tip: If you fly in late, stay in the city of Alajuela. It’s very close to the airport, boasts a plethora of reasonable accommodations, and also has plenty of good restaurants and shops to explore.
La Fortuna
Day 2: Hiking in Arenal National Park
Getting There: Arenal National Park encompasses 29,692 acres but is accessed through one primary ranger station (US $10 pp). There is parking available for your rental car, or a taxi can drop you off. The shoestring traveler can take the public bus from the main station in La Fortuna for only a couple of dollars. The bus will drop you off at the main road; it’s about a 20-30 minute walk to the park entrance.
About the Park: The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. The trails are mostly flat, so it’s a good option for kids and people with limited mobility. There are four trails in total, some of which intersect. Take the Los Heliconias trail to the lookout for a great view of the volcano and also sweeping views of Lake Arenal. Read our blog on Hiking in Arenal National Park for more details.
Depending on how early you access the park and how many trails you explore, this can be a half-day or full-day expedition. If you are the early type, fill up your afternoon driving around Lake Arenal and make a stop at the Volcano Brewing Company to quench your thirst.
Tip: There are many private trails nearby if you want to keep hiking. Arenal 1968 trail near the park entrance is a bit more challenging, but passes through decades-old former lava fields.
Day 3: Hanging bridges and relaxing hot springs
Hanging Bridges: You might be a little sore after your hike in the park yesterday, but you’ll want to power through to see Arenal’s Hanging Bridges. Along the trail, there are 16 bridges of varying lengths from eight to 98 meters. The trail and bridges will take you high up in the rainforest canopy, giving you a spectacular view and the chance to spot birds and wildlife less visible from the ground. Make sure to charge up your camera battery for this one.
Hot Springs: After you’re done, it’s time to reward your body with the famous Arenal hot springs. Several are available depending on your budget. Tabacon Resort has a beautiful facility, which you can explore for US $60 a day. For the budget-minded, don’t fret, the springs are naturally occurring so there are some free options as well. Just ask a local to point you in the right direction.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio
Get up early and grab some gallo pinto (the Costa Rican breakfast of champions) because you’ve got a long journey to the Pacific coast ahead. Don’t worry, though, it’s well worth the five to six-hour drive. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, tour vans (Grayline; Interbus) are a good option. Tempted to save some money by taking the public bus? You might want to rethink that. To get a bus to Manuel Antonio, you have to go all the way back to San José, turning a five-hour trip into a 10+ hour trip. Shuttle vans are very affordable (US $35 to $50), and you won’t lose a whole day of your precious vacation. To save even more time, take a small plane from La Fortuna to Quepos (Nature Air; TACA Regional). The views from six to nine-thousand feet up are spectacular and the ride near the windy mountains of San José is an adventure in itself.
Tip: Travel days like this are the reason it’s tough to see the whole country in a limited amount of time. Don’t try to accomplish too much in one day. Pair your travel day with a relaxing dinner or a beach chair, that way you’ll be charged up to enjoy your next day. You are on vacation, right?
Day 5: Zip-line adventure and sunset dinner
Zip-line Tour: Arrange a zip-line excursion through your hotel or contact the office directly. These tours will pick you up, give you a ride into the countryside, feed you breakfast or lunch, and outfit you for a great zip-lining adventure.
Visit Quepos: After you’ve flown through the trees, ask the tour operator to drop you off on solid ground in Quepos (the small city next to Manuel Antonio). In Quepos, browse local shops and the outdoor market along the seawall or grab a cup of coffee at Café Milagro. You can easily catch the bus back to Manuel Antonio when you’re done at the central bus terminal (< US $1).
Dinner: For dinner, ride out to Ronnie’s Place. Ronnie’s Place is located on a narrow peninsula between Quepos and Manuel Antonio. It’s a wonderful restaurant with a spectacular sunset view. Get there early and grab a table outside for the best view. This is one of our top five things to do in the area.
Tip: You might want to take a taxi to Ronnie’s Place; the road is rough and the cocktails are strong.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s most visited park and for good reason. Here you can easily see monkeys, sloths, birds, and butterflies. As an added benefit, there are beautiful beaches for swimming and picnicking. Be sure to get there early, though; not only will you have a better chance to see wildlife, but you will beat the crowds.
After the park, grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach, we suggest Marlin, and spend the last full day of your vacation splashing in the waves on Playa Espadilla.
Tip: These adventures may have you hitting the snooze button at 9 a.m., but remember, birds and animals get up with the sun. To increase your wildlife sightings, get some coffee and hit the trail early; you’ll be happy you did.
Day 7: Back to reality
Hopefully your trip was a success and you can reminisce about the wonderful sights, generous people, and extraordinary environment you experienced while you travel back to San José. A one-week vacation surely isn’t enough, so when you book your next trip, make sure you read our blog, Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary. ¡Pura vida!
Are you back?
What was your favorite part of the trip? Was a week long enough for the relaxing pura vida vibe to set in?
We’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
Day 1: San José to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
From the San José airport, rent a car, take a shuttle/tour van, or bus it to the town of La Fortuna. Along the way you will traverse rolling green mountains of coffee plantations, cattle fields, and the occasional dense forest. The narrow road winds through small cities and quaint towns. Getting closer to La Fortuna, you’ll start to see the volcano looming in the distance. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodations and take in the view. La Fortuna has a very walkable downtown complete with a charming central park. Explore the streets and shops before you grab dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Tip: If you fly in late, stay in the city of Alajuela. It’s very close to the airport, boasts a plethora of reasonable accommodations, and also has plenty of good restaurants and shops to explore.
La Fortuna Day 2: Hiking in Arenal National Park
Getting There: Arenal National Park encompasses 29,692 acres but is accessed through one primary ranger station (US $10 pp). There is parking available for your rental car, or a taxi can drop you off. The shoestring traveler can take the public bus from the main station in La Fortuna for only a couple of dollars. The bus will drop you off at the main road; it’s about a 20-30 minute walk to the park entrance.
About the Park: The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. The trails are mostly flat, so it’s a good option for kids and people with limited mobility. There are four trails in total, some of which intersect. Take the Los Heliconias trail to the lookout for a great view of the volcano and also sweeping views of Lake Arenal. Read our blog on Hiking in Arenal National Park for more details.
Depending on how early you access the park and how many trails you explore, this can be a half-day or full-day expedition. If you are the early type, fill up your afternoon driving around Lake Arenal and make a stop at the Volcano Brewing Company to quench your thirst.
Tip: There are many private trails nearby if you want to keep hiking. Arenal 1968 trail near the park entrance is a bit more challenging, but passes through decades-old former lava fields.
Day 3: Hanging bridges and relaxing hot springs
Hanging Bridges: You might be a little sore after your hike in the park yesterday, but you’ll want to power through to see Arenal’s Hanging Bridges. Along the trail, there are 16 bridges of varying lengths from eight to 98 meters. The trail and bridges will take you high up in the rainforest canopy, giving you a spectacular view and the chance to spot birds and wildlife less visible from the ground. Make sure to charge up your camera battery for this one.
Hot Springs: After you’re done, it’s time to reward your body with the famous Arenal hot springs. Several are available depending on your budget. Tabacon Resort has a beautiful facility, which you can explore for US $60 a day. For the budget-minded, don’t fret, the springs are naturally occurring so there are some free options as well. Just ask a local to point you in the right direction.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio
Get up early and grab some gallo pinto (the Costa Rican breakfast of champions) because you’ve got a long journey to the Pacific coast ahead. Don’t worry, though, it’s well worth the five to six-hour drive. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, tour vans (Grayline; Interbus) are a good option. Tempted to save some money by taking the public bus? You might want to rethink that. To get a bus to Manuel Antonio, you have to go all the way back to San José, turning a five-hour trip into a 10+ hour trip. Shuttle vans are very affordable (US $35 to $50), and you won’t lose a whole day of your precious vacation. To save even more time, take a small plane from La Fortuna to Quepos (Nature Air; TACA Regional). The views from six to nine-thousand feet up are spectacular and the ride near the windy mountains of San José is an adventure in itself.
Tip: Travel days like this are the reason it’s tough to see the whole country in a limited amount of time. Don’t try to accomplish too much in one day. Pair your travel day with a relaxing dinner or a beach chair, that way you’ll be charged up to enjoy your next day. You are on vacation, right?
Day 5: Zip-line adventure and sunset dinner
Zip-line Tour: Arrange a zip-line excursion through your hotel or contact the office directly. These tours will pick you up, give you a ride into the countryside, feed you breakfast or lunch, and outfit you for a great zip-lining adventure.
Visit Quepos: After you’ve flown through the trees, ask the tour operator to drop you off on solid ground in Quepos (the small city next to Manuel Antonio). In Quepos, browse local shops and the outdoor market along the seawall or grab a cup of coffee at Café Milagro. You can easily catch the bus back to Manuel Antonio when you’re done at the central bus terminal (< US $1).
Dinner: For dinner, ride out to Ronnie’s Place. Ronnie’s Place is located on a narrow peninsula between Quepos and Manuel Antonio. It’s a wonderful restaurant with a spectacular sunset view. Get there early and grab a table outside for the best view. This is one of our top five things to do in the area.
Tip: You might want to take a taxi to Ronnie’s Place; the road is rough and the cocktails are strong.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s most visited park and for good reason. Here you can easily see monkeys, sloths, birds, and butterflies. As an added benefit, there are beautiful beaches for swimming and picnicking. Be sure to get there early, though; not only will you have a better chance to see wildlife, but you will beat the crowds.
After the park, grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach, we suggest Marlin, and spend the last full day of your vacation splashing in the waves on Playa Espadilla.
Tip: These adventures may have you hitting the snooze button at 9 a.m., but remember, birds and animals get up with the sun. To increase your wildlife sightings, get some coffee and hit the trail early; you’ll be happy you did.
Day 7: Back to reality Hopefully your trip was a success and you can reminisce about the wonderful sights, generous people, and extraordinary environment you experienced while you travel back to San José. A one-week vacation surely isn’t enough, so when you book your next trip, make sure you read our blog, Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary. ¡Pura vida!
Are you back?
What was your favorite part of the trip? Was a week long enough for the relaxing pura vida vibe to set in?
We’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
December 1, 2012
Help Save the Macaws with Two Weeks in Costa Rica
The ARA Project Must Relocate Their Facility
Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all book proceeds between December 1st and 7th to this important cause.
Photo Credit: The ARA Project
For over 20 years, the ARA Project has been successfully breeding and releasing rare parrots in Costa Rica. Between 1999 and 2012, over 80 Scarlet Macaws have been released, with survival rates close to 90% and successful reproduction. In 2011, they were also the first to reintroduce Great Green Macaws into the wild. Both species are in decline, making ARA's work more important than ever.
The project, however, is in jeopardy and needs your help. The owner of the land where the facility is located has sold the property and is evicting ARA in 30 days. Relocating 200+ birds isn't going to be easy. A generous donor has come forward and provided the Project with an empty lot, but a new facility must be constructed—and fast.
To help out, Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all profits from its book sales from December 1-7 directly to the cause.
You can also make donations directly to the ARA Project through their website: www.thearaproject.org.
Thanks for your support!
-Matt & Jenn
Help save the Macaws! Buy
Two Weeks in Costa Rica today. All proceeds from 12/1/12 - 12/7/12 support The ARA Project.
Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all book proceeds between December 1st and 7th to this important cause.
Photo Credit: The ARA Project For over 20 years, the ARA Project has been successfully breeding and releasing rare parrots in Costa Rica. Between 1999 and 2012, over 80 Scarlet Macaws have been released, with survival rates close to 90% and successful reproduction. In 2011, they were also the first to reintroduce Great Green Macaws into the wild. Both species are in decline, making ARA's work more important than ever.
The project, however, is in jeopardy and needs your help. The owner of the land where the facility is located has sold the property and is evicting ARA in 30 days. Relocating 200+ birds isn't going to be easy. A generous donor has come forward and provided the Project with an empty lot, but a new facility must be constructed—and fast.
To help out, Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all profits from its book sales from December 1-7 directly to the cause.
You can also make donations directly to the ARA Project through their website: www.thearaproject.org.
Thanks for your support!
-Matt & Jenn
Help save the Macaws! Buy
Two Weeks in Costa Rica today. All proceeds from 12/1/12 - 12/7/12 support The ARA Project.
HELP SAVE THE MACAWS WITH TWO WEEKS IN COSTA RICA
The ARA Project Must Relocate Their Facility
Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all book proceeds between December 1st and 7th to this important cause.
Photo Credit: The ARA Project
For over 20 years, the ARA Project has been successfully breeding and releasing rare parrots in Costa Rica. Between 1999 and 2012, over 80 Scarlet Macaws have been released, with survival rates close to 90% and successful reproduction. In 2011, they were also the first to reintroduce Great Green Macaws into the wild. Both species are in decline, making ARA's work more important than ever.
The project, however, is in jeopardy and needs your help. The owner of the land where the facility is located has sold the property and is evicting ARA in 30 days. Relocating 200+ birds isn't going to be easy. A generous donor has come forward and provided the Project with an empty lot, but a new facility must be constructed—and fast.
To help out, Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all profits from its book sales from December 1-7 directly to the cause.
You can also make donations directly to the ARA Project through their website: www.thearaproject.org.
Thanks for your support!
-Matt & Jenn
Help save the Macaws! Buy
Two Weeks in Costa Rica ($2.99) today. All proceeds from 12/1/12 - 12/7/12 support The ARA Project.
Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all book proceeds between December 1st and 7th to this important cause.
Photo Credit: The ARA Project For over 20 years, the ARA Project has been successfully breeding and releasing rare parrots in Costa Rica. Between 1999 and 2012, over 80 Scarlet Macaws have been released, with survival rates close to 90% and successful reproduction. In 2011, they were also the first to reintroduce Great Green Macaws into the wild. Both species are in decline, making ARA's work more important than ever.
The project, however, is in jeopardy and needs your help. The owner of the land where the facility is located has sold the property and is evicting ARA in 30 days. Relocating 200+ birds isn't going to be easy. A generous donor has come forward and provided the Project with an empty lot, but a new facility must be constructed—and fast.
To help out, Two Weeks in Costa Rica is donating all profits from its book sales from December 1-7 directly to the cause.
You can also make donations directly to the ARA Project through their website: www.thearaproject.org.
Thanks for your support!
-Matt & Jenn
Help save the Macaws! Buy
Two Weeks in Costa Rica ($2.99) today. All proceeds from 12/1/12 - 12/7/12 support The ARA Project.
November 17, 2012
COSTA RICA: PLANNING YOUR TRIP ITINERARY
Our popular blog post,
Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary
, has been getting a lot of traffic lately. Flocks of tourists from North America and Europe have been visiting our site, starting to plan their winter getaways. This post offers a supplement to help our readers know where to start.
Identify Your Travel Goals
The first thing you need to do is decide what you want to get out of your vacation. If you’re going to Costa Rica, you are probably interested in spending a lot of time outdoors. For some, that may be hiking up volcanoes and for others it may be surfing for twelve hours a day. Others still will simply want a quiet place to sit and watch nature.
What are your personal goals and what are the goals of the people with whom you are traveling (friends, spouse, kids)? If you set your common goals right from the beginning, it’s more likely that everyone’s expectations of the trip will be met.
Read up
Guidebooks are the place to start to learn the basics about traveling in Costa Rica. Every guidebook is set up differently and provides varying levels of coverage about different areas of the country, so it’s best to buy at least a couple and compare. We recommend Lonely Planet , Frommer’s , and The Rough Guide .
As you read, take notes or tab what sparks your interest. We often find ourselves rereading our guidebooks again and again to get new inspiration from the beautiful descriptions and photos.
Tip: Even the most recently published guidebooks contain outdated information. Double-check schedules, prices, and fares on the web before you leave, or confirm your travel plans with locals when you’re there.
Dream
Now that you have tabbed every other page in your guidebook, it’s time to start narrowing it down. Group the places that fit your goals into three categories: Pacific coast, mountains, and Caribbean coast. Most visitors will choose one or two of these regions to visit but not all three; categorizing them will help you choose your route later. This is also a good time to write down some activities you would like to do. Click here to see some of our favorites.
Plan Your Route
Here is the tricky part. How are you going to cram all those great places and activities into a week or two? Can you go from the Arenal volcano to Corcovado National Park, and then to the Caribbean? Start by determining how much time you have, what your budget is, and if you have any restrictions (medical or physical). Guidebooks will help you plan your route. They provide approximate bus schedules, drive times, and prices for hotels and restaurants. Online forums like tripadvisor are also a great place to ask specific questions. You probably won’t be able to fit all of your destinations into your time frame but remember, it’s never too early to start planning next year’s trip.
A common mistake: New visitors to Costa Rica often try to see too much in too short a period of time. Although it’s a small country, traveling from the Pacific side to the Caribbean, or from north to south can be a full-day journey. Although major highways are becoming more common, Costa Rica still has its share of rough roads. Combine that with steep grades, sharp curves, and the occasional traffic jams and you can start to see why.
Plan to stay at least three days in each destination so that you can actually enjoy yourself. The first day you will settle in, the second and third you will explore, and the fourth you will sob because you have to leave. Making your visit any shorter in each place only adds to the sadness.
Execute
Now that you have a plan, it’s time to execute. For most people, that means calling hotels, rental car companies, and tour services. Most businesses have someone available to help who can speak English, but be prepared with a Spanish phrasebook just in case.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try traveling our way—without making a single reservation. Yeah that’s right, just buy your plane tickets, pack some carry-ons, and go. This type of travel is not for the faint of heart, but Costa Rica’s laid-back lifestyle has always come through for us.
Need more advice? Leave a comment below and we’ll get back to you. Already went? What guidebooks did you use?
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
Identify Your Travel Goals
The first thing you need to do is decide what you want to get out of your vacation. If you’re going to Costa Rica, you are probably interested in spending a lot of time outdoors. For some, that may be hiking up volcanoes and for others it may be surfing for twelve hours a day. Others still will simply want a quiet place to sit and watch nature.
What are your personal goals and what are the goals of the people with whom you are traveling (friends, spouse, kids)? If you set your common goals right from the beginning, it’s more likely that everyone’s expectations of the trip will be met.
Read up
Guidebooks are the place to start to learn the basics about traveling in Costa Rica. Every guidebook is set up differently and provides varying levels of coverage about different areas of the country, so it’s best to buy at least a couple and compare. We recommend Lonely Planet , Frommer’s , and The Rough Guide .
As you read, take notes or tab what sparks your interest. We often find ourselves rereading our guidebooks again and again to get new inspiration from the beautiful descriptions and photos.
Tip: Even the most recently published guidebooks contain outdated information. Double-check schedules, prices, and fares on the web before you leave, or confirm your travel plans with locals when you’re there.
Dream
Now that you have tabbed every other page in your guidebook, it’s time to start narrowing it down. Group the places that fit your goals into three categories: Pacific coast, mountains, and Caribbean coast. Most visitors will choose one or two of these regions to visit but not all three; categorizing them will help you choose your route later. This is also a good time to write down some activities you would like to do. Click here to see some of our favorites.
Plan Your RouteHere is the tricky part. How are you going to cram all those great places and activities into a week or two? Can you go from the Arenal volcano to Corcovado National Park, and then to the Caribbean? Start by determining how much time you have, what your budget is, and if you have any restrictions (medical or physical). Guidebooks will help you plan your route. They provide approximate bus schedules, drive times, and prices for hotels and restaurants. Online forums like tripadvisor are also a great place to ask specific questions. You probably won’t be able to fit all of your destinations into your time frame but remember, it’s never too early to start planning next year’s trip.
A common mistake: New visitors to Costa Rica often try to see too much in too short a period of time. Although it’s a small country, traveling from the Pacific side to the Caribbean, or from north to south can be a full-day journey. Although major highways are becoming more common, Costa Rica still has its share of rough roads. Combine that with steep grades, sharp curves, and the occasional traffic jams and you can start to see why.
Plan to stay at least three days in each destination so that you can actually enjoy yourself. The first day you will settle in, the second and third you will explore, and the fourth you will sob because you have to leave. Making your visit any shorter in each place only adds to the sadness.
Execute
Now that you have a plan, it’s time to execute. For most people, that means calling hotels, rental car companies, and tour services. Most businesses have someone available to help who can speak English, but be prepared with a Spanish phrasebook just in case.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try traveling our way—without making a single reservation. Yeah that’s right, just buy your plane tickets, pack some carry-ons, and go. This type of travel is not for the faint of heart, but Costa Rica’s laid-back lifestyle has always come through for us.
Need more advice? Leave a comment below and we’ll get back to you. Already went? What guidebooks did you use?
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
November 10, 2012
THE WHISTLE THAT DREW US IN: COSTA RICA'S CARIBBEAN COAST
It has now been a few months since our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica, was released. Sure it's been nice to have more free time and catch up with other projects, but both of us really miss writing. We have been blogging, but it's just not the same. So Matt decided to write a narrative about our visit last February to Cahuita, Costa Rica. The article was picked up by Travel Culture Magazine and published earlier this week. Read below for a sample and visit their website for the whole story.
The Whistle That Drew Us In: Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast
by Matthew Houde
Travel Culture Magazine, November 5, 2012
Something seems wrong. It’s dark and the bed is swaying from side to side. I think I may be dreaming, but as my eyes adjust and focus on the silky, pink mosquito net draped over the bed, I remember, I’m in Costa Rica. I soon realize that the gentle rocking is from an early morning earthquake, an occasional occurrence here. The subtle motion stops but already has stirred my wife, Jenn, and a family of howler monkeys outside. The monkeys’ deep bellows echo from the trees and are answered by another group in the distance. Their conversation, loud at first, fades to a soft snore that puts me back to sleep. . .
Continue reading in TRAVEL CULTURE MAGAZINE
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
October 20, 2012
FROM THE BOOK: OUR SMALL PLANE RIDE ADVENTURE
Costa Rica has a lot to offer for the adventure traveler, from zip lining above the rainforest canopy to white-water rafting and even canyoning (rappelling down waterfalls). People may not think of riding in a small plane as an adventure, but our experiences have proven otherwise.
This video shows a scene from our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica . After spending a few days exploring the wild jungle and clear waters off of Drake Bay, our vacation was coming to an end. In order to cut down on our travel time home, we booked a flight on a tiny, nineteen passenger Twin Otter back to the capital city of San José. What made this and other small plane rides we have taken in Costa Rica adrenaline pumping was the wind. Approaching San José, the wind whips through the mountains, making landings in light aircraft quite an adventure. Matt managed to capture our landing in this video without Jenn even knowing (be sure to note her white knuckles and clammy face). He then combined it with some footage we took from the ground to give you a feel for the whole ride. Hold on tight!
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com.
This video shows a scene from our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica . After spending a few days exploring the wild jungle and clear waters off of Drake Bay, our vacation was coming to an end. In order to cut down on our travel time home, we booked a flight on a tiny, nineteen passenger Twin Otter back to the capital city of San José. What made this and other small plane rides we have taken in Costa Rica adrenaline pumping was the wind. Approaching San José, the wind whips through the mountains, making landings in light aircraft quite an adventure. Matt managed to capture our landing in this video without Jenn even knowing (be sure to note her white knuckles and clammy face). He then combined it with some footage we took from the ground to give you a feel for the whole ride. Hold on tight!
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com.
September 18, 2012
WILDLIFE IN COSTA RICA
Costa Rica is a nature enthusiast’s dream come true. Packed into this small, yet geographically diverse, country are an astounding twelve different life zones. From rainforest, where you can see monkeys, sloths, and countless types of birds, to higher altitude cloud forest, where you can find the rare Resplendent Quetzal bird, poisonous dart frogs, and even elusive pumas, Costa Rica abounds with wildlife. With 500,000+ species in total, the country has about five percent of the world’s biodiversity, though it takes up a mere 0.03 percent of its space. Facts like this make it no surprise that National Geographic named the Southern Zone “one of the most biologically diverse regions on earth.”
Here is a small sampling of the stunning wildlife we’ve seen in Costa Rica.
Three-toed Sloth Three-toed sloths are common in Costa Rica. You can easily find them in Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado, Tortuguero, and Cahuita National Park (they are particularly plentiful in Cahuita). See the green tinge in its coat? That’s caused by algae, which grows in the hollow hairs of this extremely slow-moving creature.
White-faced Capuchin Monkey White-faced capuchin monkeys are also easy to spot in Costa Rica’s many protected areas and are usually quite social. The capuchins in Manuel Antonio National Park are more than a little friendly, even seeming to pose for the camera at times. In more wild, remote areas, these monkeys are less accustomed to seeing humans and often become territorial if you encroach on their space. We’ve had a couple of encounters with some angry capuchins that sent us running!
Scarlet Macaw The Scarlet Macaw is undoubtedly one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful birds. Though the population isn’t what it once was because so many of these birds are captured and sold illegally as pets, two large groups still exist. Look for these noisy birds in the almond trees of the Osa Peninsula and in Carara.
Eyelash Pitviper The eyelash pitviper is one of Costa Rica’s most dangerous snakes. As the name pitviper implies, this snake uses its long fangs on its upper jaw to inject prey with venom. Luckily this bright yellow variety was hard to miss, and we stayed clear.
* * *
The best way to spot wildlife in Costa Rica is to move slowly and quietly. Keep your eyes and ears open, and look high in the canopy of the trees and low in the brush. If you do see an animal, stay for a while to observe it. We've found that animals often congregate; you never know when something even more amazing might be right around the corner.
To see more wildlife photos, check out our Facebook page and stay tuned for more blogs.
What is the most impressive animal you've seen on a trip? Let us know by commenting below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
Here is a small sampling of the stunning wildlife we’ve seen in Costa Rica.
Three-toed Sloth Three-toed sloths are common in Costa Rica. You can easily find them in Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado, Tortuguero, and Cahuita National Park (they are particularly plentiful in Cahuita). See the green tinge in its coat? That’s caused by algae, which grows in the hollow hairs of this extremely slow-moving creature. White-faced Capuchin Monkey White-faced capuchin monkeys are also easy to spot in Costa Rica’s many protected areas and are usually quite social. The capuchins in Manuel Antonio National Park are more than a little friendly, even seeming to pose for the camera at times. In more wild, remote areas, these monkeys are less accustomed to seeing humans and often become territorial if you encroach on their space. We’ve had a couple of encounters with some angry capuchins that sent us running! Scarlet Macaw The Scarlet Macaw is undoubtedly one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful birds. Though the population isn’t what it once was because so many of these birds are captured and sold illegally as pets, two large groups still exist. Look for these noisy birds in the almond trees of the Osa Peninsula and in Carara. Eyelash Pitviper The eyelash pitviper is one of Costa Rica’s most dangerous snakes. As the name pitviper implies, this snake uses its long fangs on its upper jaw to inject prey with venom. Luckily this bright yellow variety was hard to miss, and we stayed clear. * * *
The best way to spot wildlife in Costa Rica is to move slowly and quietly. Keep your eyes and ears open, and look high in the canopy of the trees and low in the brush. If you do see an animal, stay for a while to observe it. We've found that animals often congregate; you never know when something even more amazing might be right around the corner.
To see more wildlife photos, check out our Facebook page and stay tuned for more blogs.
What is the most impressive animal you've seen on a trip? Let us know by commenting below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
August 26, 2012
HIKING IN ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK
Looming over the town of La Fortuna, Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s five active volcanos. Originally thought to be dormant, this volcano unexpectedly sprang to life in 1968. For fifteen days, mighty Arenal showed the world it was very much alive, spewing lava, rocks, and ash over fifteen square kilometers. That catastrophic eruption, which killed seventy-three people and buried three nearby communities, was Arenal’s biggest. Since then, Arenal has had smaller eruptions on a near-daily basis, though its activity has slowed considerably since 2010. Today, you may not see the famed orange glow of lava illuminating the night sky, but the sight is still spectacular.
The view from the small town of La Fortuna gives a sense of Arenal’s imposing size. At 5,437 feet (1,633 meters), Arenal towers in the backdrop.
The 29,692-acre Arenal National Park (US $10 pp) has more to offer than just a view of the volcano. The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. On our visit, we saw lots of wildlife, including white faced capuchin monkeys and a pheasant-like bird called a Great Curassow. We also saw plenty of plant life. Pictured here is a giant Ceiba tree that survived the eruption of 1968. You can't really appreciate how large it is until someone steps into the picture.
Lava rocks from eruptions decades earlier.
From the lookout off of Los Heliconias trail, in one direction you can see the western side of the volcano. In the other direction, you can see beautiful Lake Arenal. If you have the time, there’s another trail (Los Miradores) that leads down to the shores of the lake.
Arenal volcano is a must-see destination for those journeying to the mountains northwest of San José. Be sure to schedule at least a few days in the area as there are plenty of sights and activities. There are hanging bridges, canopy tours, botanical gardens, waterfalls, and many other fun things to do. The volcano also produces several natural hot springs that will soothe your aching muscles after a day of adventure.
Questions/Comments?
Need help planning your Costa Rica trip or want to rant about your Arenal experience? Leave us a comment below.
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The view from the small town of La Fortuna gives a sense of Arenal’s imposing size. At 5,437 feet (1,633 meters), Arenal towers in the backdrop. The 29,692-acre Arenal National Park (US $10 pp) has more to offer than just a view of the volcano. The park has easy-to-navigate trails through secondary forest and former lava fields. On our visit, we saw lots of wildlife, including white faced capuchin monkeys and a pheasant-like bird called a Great Curassow. We also saw plenty of plant life. Pictured here is a giant Ceiba tree that survived the eruption of 1968. You can't really appreciate how large it is until someone steps into the picture. Lava rocks from eruptions decades earlier. From the lookout off of Los Heliconias trail, in one direction you can see the western side of the volcano. In the other direction, you can see beautiful Lake Arenal. If you have the time, there’s another trail (Los Miradores) that leads down to the shores of the lake. Arenal volcano is a must-see destination for those journeying to the mountains northwest of San José. Be sure to schedule at least a few days in the area as there are plenty of sights and activities. There are hanging bridges, canopy tours, botanical gardens, waterfalls, and many other fun things to do. The volcano also produces several natural hot springs that will soothe your aching muscles after a day of adventure.Questions/Comments?
Need help planning your Costa Rica trip or want to rant about your Arenal experience? Leave us a comment below.
To learn more about Costa Rica, buy our book, Two Weeks in Costa Rica. It's a travelogue with a guidebook twist.
Read reviews and excerpts on Amazon.com
