Organic Spice Farm Experience, Manuel Antonio

Learn how to prepare a traditional Costa Rican meal on this gourmet excursion! After a stop at the local farmers’ market in Quepos, where you'll browse the stands and choose ingredients, you'll travel with your guide to a private ranch in the village of Londres. Source additional produce from the property's organic garden. Next, join a local chef in the preparation of a traditional lunch. You'll learn how to make corn tortillas by hand, then help prepare ceviche and a classic chicken recipe. Enjoy the meal, then take some time to explore the ranch and its peaceful surroundings. If the weather cooperates, you can even go for a dip in the Naranjo River.

Discover the natural beauty of the world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park on a hike with an expert guide. While trekking the two-mile (3.2-km) trail, keep your eyes open for monkeys, sloths, birds, reptiles, and butterflies in the wild. The path through the lush rainforest leads you to the sandy beaches and bright blue waters of one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. 

Relax and enjoy a sailing adventure around Manuel Antonio National Park. Board a catamaran in Quepos, then sit back and listen as your guide offers background information about the region's geography and wildlife. You'll cruise past islands, rock formations, and dramatic cliffs as the captain navigates along the scenic coastline. Keep your eyes open for dolphins that occasionally follow the boat! A delicious barbecue will be prepared and served onboard. Depending on the conditions, you may have the chance to swim or snorkel when the captain puts down the boat's anchor at Biesanz Bay.

Start your Savegre River Whitewater Rafting Adventure with a pickup from your hotel in Manuel Antonio. You'll then travel to the Savegre River and begin your rafting journey, paddling through Class II and Class III rapids while surrounded by stunning rainforest scenery. After an exciting and scenic trip down the river, you'll be transferred to base camp to dry off and enjoy a delicious meal before heading back to your hotel.

Discover the Damas Island Estuary and its mangrove ecosystem on a boat trip! Your knowledgeable guide will point out flora and fauna as you cruise along the natural passageways created by the river's ebb and flow. Bird-watching is excellent here, and the fluctuating conditions of sediment and saltwater attract a wide range of sea animals. If you're lucky, you'll also spot reptiles, anteaters, and monkeys. Enjoy an included lunch at the end of the tour. Exact departure times depend on the tides.

Board a 30-foot Island Hopper for a scuba diving excursion in the Caño Island Biological Reserve. Dive into the waters surrounding Isla del Caño and explore the abundant marine life, including reef sharks, sea turtles, and various fish species.

Take off on an active kayaking adventure around Manuel Antonio! Climb into a single or double kayak and follow your guide as you paddle past small islands and nesting areas for marine birds. After about an hour, take a break on the beautiful inlet in Biesanz Bay. Snorkeling is an option (if the weather cooperates), and you'll have opportunities to spot parrotfish, starfish, angelfish, and even sea turtles. As you return to the starting point, keep your eyes open for pelicans, flying fish, and other birds. Then head back to base camp and enjoy a delicious homemade meal.