For over a decade, my passion for creating unforgettable trips in Costa Rica shines a deep understanding of the country's diverse attractions and activities, as well as a genuine commitment to providing travelers with exceptional experiences.
I like to think I've got a knack for understanding what each traveler wants and giving them an experience they'll never forget. Whether you're all about thrill-seeking adventures, chilling on beaches, diving into nature, or soaking up the local culture, I've got you covered.
Sharing the magic of Costa Rica with visitors is my jam. My description exudes professionalism, expertise, and a genuine passion for creating unforgettable travel experiences, making me an ideal choice for anyone seeking an adventure in Costa Rica.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Hiking Expeditions
Birding Tours
National Parks
Beach Vacations
Nature Photography
Hooneymoons"
How did you get involved in travel?
"Growing up in Costa Rica, I was surrounded by stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and endless adventures waiting to be explored. From a young age, I developed a deep appreciation for my country's beauty and diversity.
Over time, I honed my skills, built connections with local guides and businesses, and delved deeper into understanding what travelers are looking for. With each trip I planned, I gained more experience and confidence in my ability to curate amazing adventures for others.
Sharing the magic of Costa Rica with visitors and helping them create memories that will last a lifetime brings me immense joy and fulfillment. It's not just a job for me – it's a way of life.
"
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"I will never forget my first trip to Tortuguero National Park as a tour guide, that is my favorite rainforest place, the biodiversity and conservation efforts are unique.
In addition, I love Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, where you can feel the volcanic activity and also see how the vegetation changes along the walk.
I can't leave Corcovado National Park, located on the south coast of our beautiful country, here you can find the most amazing fauna variety, such as Cougars, Tapirs, Snakes, Birds, etc."
Yuliana's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries
Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, this Arenal Volcano National Park adventure lets you experience Costa Rica's cloud forests from above and below. Step aboard an open-air gondola to reach the Mano del Arenal lookout, then descend along a series of seven thrilling zipline cables,...
Located along Costa Rica's Caribbean slope near Turrialba is a deep gorge considered one of the best river-rafting sites in the world. The Río Pacuare runs 67 miles (107 km) from the Talamanca Mountains to the Caribbean in the southwest of the country. Along the way, it passes through some of the...
Board a boat and set out from Drake Bay on a thrilling adventure to spot several species of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. With large resident pods of dolphins year-round and seasonal whale migrations, your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures are high. In addition to...
Embark on an early morning birdwatching adventure in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a popular birding destination in Costa Rica. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, spot various species, including the resplendent quetzal, highland tinamou, and Chiriqui quail-dove. Don't miss the chance to...
Learn to catch a wave at Salsa Brava, one of the Caribbean's most legendary surf breaks! Located near the colorful town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, this area offers some of Costa Rica's best surfing conditions. Enjoy a private two-hour lesson that is both family- and beginner-friendly, with...
Learn about traditional Costa Rican coffee production firsthand on this illuminating visit to a small, family-owned farm, where you'll see the sustainable and eco-friendly methods used to produce 100% organic coffee beans. Your naturalist guide will lead you through the fields as they explain how...
Recent trip reviews for Yuliana
Yulianna put together an amazing itinerary co...
Costa Rica
|
Mar 14 - Mar 20, 2026
Daniela O.
India
| Reviewed on Mar 25, 2026
Yulianna put together an amazing itinerary covering San Jose, Jacó, Quepos, and La Fortuna/Arenal that flowed perfectly from start to finish. Every detail was thoughtfully planned. The right mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor at each stop.
I almost cancelled the hot springs in La Fortuna, and I'm so glad I didn't. It ended up being one of my favorite nights of the entire trip. Soaking in the warm volcanic waters.
Her recommendations were spot on and she was responsive and...
Read more
Yulianna put together an amazing itinerary covering San Jose, Jacó, Quepos, and La Fortuna/Arenal that flowed perfectly from start to finish. Every detail was thoughtfully planned. The right mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor at each stop.
I almost cancelled the hot springs in La Fortuna, and I'm so glad I didn't. It ended up being one of my favorite nights of the entire trip. Soaking in the warm volcanic waters.
Her recommendations were spot on and she was responsive and flexible throughout. If you want someone who truly knows Costa Rica, book with Yulianna. Pura vida! 🌿🌋
Hotel Reviews
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto
San José
Wyndham San José Herradura
San José
Hotel Lavas Tacotal
Fortuna, San Carlos
Hotel Villas Lirio
Quepos
Activity Reviews
Catamaran Adventure with Snorkeling
Manuel Antonio
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Zip Lining & Self-Guided Visit to La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Costa Rica amazing
Costa Rica
|
Mar 4 - Mar 19, 2026
KLAUS A.
Bon Air, VA
| Reviewed on Mar 25, 2026
Yuliana did an excellent job transforming our wishes and expectations for our Costa Rica trip into great activities and hotels. All her recommendations were spot on and overall we had a wonderful experience.
Read more
Yuliana did an excellent job transforming our wishes and expectations for our Costa Rica trip into great activities and hotels. All her recommendations were spot on and overall we had a wonderful experience.
Hotel Reviews
Corcovado Wilderness Lodge by SCP
Drake Bay
Staying in this resort is an incredible experience on its own merit. It is located next to the national park. You cannot reach it unless by boat. We took a private road trip to the port near Sierpe and from there a met the hotel team. Then a beautiful river ride (2h stopping along to observe animals) and final ocean ride to hotel beach (30m). On the way back we took a 30m boat ride to Drake bay and 30m to the Drake airport back to San Jose to our international flight same day. All of it organized by the hotel, impeccable planning and execution. The hotel borders the national park and has beautiful beaches of its own. There are many nature and eco activities to be done here. There are 2 restaurants all great, one with stunning view of the pacific. We had a regular bungalow and was excellent. Thank you LUIZ at the restaurant for tables with beautiful views and MARISA and SOL at front desk and coordination of everything including our perfect return trip. In this resort everyone of their staff is focused on a delightful and awesome experience for all their guests.
Authenticity & Character
Beautiful, we had birds and other animals
Location
Tremendous location with beach, forest, animals
Cleanliness & Comfort
Good performance. We had a minor issue and informed the management, who was receptive to fixing this.
Hotel La Mariposa
Manuel Antonio
The views from the top of the hill down to the ocean are stunning. Very good restaurant and pool with same great views. Front desk staff not as friendly (not even a smile upon arrival) as we learned to expect in Costa Rica, including a discussion due to a disappointing lack of room cleaning on the first day (had to call at 3:30pm to clean room, though we had been out of it since 7:00am on our activity). The restaurant staff was great, thank you to JOHN and MAGALY for getting us an awesome view table twice.
The hotel is relatively far from the beautiful beach below, hotel offers rides 4x/daily (walking is 25min down and 40min up if you are fit - which is what we did - also taxi is $10).
Authenticity & Character
Good layout, with great views from everywhere
Staff
Restaurant staff great, front-desk staff lacking manners and customer orientation
Cleanliness & Comfort
Somehow they missed cleaning our room first day, but otherwise OK
A beautiful bungalow hotel located within its own park, with jacuzzi overlooking the forest/mountain. Plenty of animals around the wonderfully manicured gardens. Very good food and drink options. Quiet, and isolated from the town. Great pool. GIORGIOLINA at the front desk was wonderful, providing us with the mountain view bungalow we thought we were getting (but some miscommunication between the travel agent and the hotel prevented us to have that on first night).
Spending time here was a blessing immersion into the Arenal park forest setting.
Authenticity & Character
Though a modern facility, the bungalows are immersed into the park
Location
Within its own incredible forest park.
Staff
Competent and very friendly front desk
Cleanliness & Comfort
Excellent facilities
Cariblue Beach & Jungle Resort
South Puerto Viejo
Great resort, across the street from the beautiful beach. Pool opened 24h with a good happy hour.
They have a restaurant right on the beach, we had dinner there everyday given the beautiful view and atmosphere.
Water filters conveniently placed around the property.
Competent staff and friendly front desk. Beautiful forest/garden setting embedded around the rooms.
Authenticity & Character
Beautiful garden everywhere, with ancient trees
Location
Across the street from the beautiful beach
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very good
Valverde Glamping & Ecolodge
The location of the Valverde is excellent, with beautiful river views, including from the open dining room. Our bedroom was better than a glamping experience, as we had a hotel style room with a very large bathroom and AC.
What made the greatest difference was the awesome staff attention to details and extreme friendliness. We felt truly welcome. Thank you to manager RONNY and restaurant team and captain JASON.
This hotel offer guided trips to the park multiple times of day, with their own boat, super convenient.
This was a simple hotel but had an interesting character being directly on the river and a great attentive staff.
Authenticity & Character
In the middle of the jungle
Location
Great river views, including animals, open dining room to the river
Staff
Super friendly and attentive!
Cleanliness & Comfort
A simple but very competent hotel experience
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Mar 25, 2026
Hello Klaus,
Thank you so much for your kind words. It truly means a lot to know that I was able to bring your vision for Costa Rica to life in a way that matched your expectations. I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the activities and hotels, those thoughtful details always make such a difference in the overall experience.
It was a pleasure helping you plan this journey, and I am grateful you trusted me with your trip. I hope Costa Rica left you with beautiful memories, and I would love to assist you again whenever you are ready for your next adventure.
Pura Vida!
Yuliana
Pura Vida!
Costa Rica
|
Mar 14 - Mar 22, 2026
Joyram C.
Ashburn, VA
| Reviewed on Mar 23, 2026
This trip was memorable for the beauty of the country of Costa Rica. It's amazing landscape and beauty married with the hospitality of the local people is unparallel. We loved the country and were lucky to take in some amazing experiences!
The Kimkim team provided us some guidance. However, there were some gaps in the information provided and the accuracy of the descriptions. There was clearly some miscommunication with the logistics of that were provided to us and what we experienced. We...
Read more
This trip was memorable for the beauty of the country of Costa Rica. It's amazing landscape and beauty married with the hospitality of the local people is unparallel. We loved the country and were lucky to take in some amazing experiences!
The Kimkim team provided us some guidance. However, there were some gaps in the information provided and the accuracy of the descriptions. There was clearly some miscommunication with the logistics of that were provided to us and what we experienced. We had to adjust according to what we experienced and manage to the best of our abilities. However, we did not let that stop us from enjoying a great vacation.
Hotel Reviews
Borinquen Thermal Resort
Guanacaste
This was an amazing hotel. Our entire family loved the overall experience and wished we had more time to spend here!
Authenticity & Character
Nature was everywhere!
Location
It was secluded in nature and we loved it!
Staff
Always with a smile!
Cleanliness & Comfort
The entire experience was squeaky clean and amazing!
Hotel Vista del Cerro
La Fortuna
This is a very basic hotel. It was clean and the outsides were beautiful and very close to nature. However, it is just off the main road and very loud. The property is dated. There was a very limited breakfast on offer that was poor! We ended up avoiding the associated restaurant.
Authenticity & Character
The description of the accommodation was misleading. This is not 3-star.
Location
This property needs updating. There were pieces of trimmings that were falling off parts of the room. It should be accurately described as being on the main road so people can accurately make a decision to stay.
Staff
They were pleasant.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room was clean albeit with no other amenities like soap or shampoo.
Activity Reviews
La Leona Waterfall Hike
Rincón de la Vieja
Having never gone cliff diving, I completed one off the bucket list. The whole family would definitely do it again.
Quality of Experience
Every bit of this experience was magical. In 3 hours, you do so much you get your money worth of living!!!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was a professional cliff diver. He was patient, polite and very knowledgeable.
Transport
This back-of-the-truck experience added to the rugged terrain. Was worth it.
Arenal Hanging Bridges Walk
Arenal/La Fortuna
This activity was so close to nature! Everyone enjoyed the leisurely walking pace and the heights of the bridges. Would definitely recommend!
Quality of Experience
Very knowledgeable and patient guides make the overall experience worth it.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was really well trained and it showed.
Arenal Volcano Extreme Zipline
Arenal/La Fortuna
The ziplining part was truly breath taking. However, there was a very clear line of misunderstanding about what was happening and when. We were given a different itinerary from the travel agent and one at the front desk. I understand things may change. However, with small children a scheduling heads up might have helped in allowing us to better prepare what we should carry with us in terms of food and water.
Quality of Experience
Ziplining is truly breathtaking. Just make sure to prepare logistics well.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Every one was professional.
Transport
Was professional.
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Mar 24, 2026
Hi Joyram,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! 😊
We are truly happy to hear how much you enjoyed the beauty of Costa Rica and the warmth of its people. It really is a special place, and we are glad you were able to experience some unforgettable moments.
At the same time, we sincerely appreciate your honest feedback regarding the gaps in information and the miscommunication with logistics. This is certainly not the experience we aim to provide, and your comments are very valuable...
Read more
Hi Joyram,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! 😊
We are truly happy to hear how much you enjoyed the beauty of Costa Rica and the warmth of its people. It really is a special place, and we are glad you were able to experience some unforgettable moments.
At the same time, we sincerely appreciate your honest feedback regarding the gaps in information and the miscommunication with logistics. This is certainly not the experience we aim to provide, and your comments are very valuable in helping us improve. We will be reviewing this carefully with our team to ensure better clarity and coordination moving forward.
We are grateful for your flexibility and positive attitude throughout the trip, and it means a lot to know that you were still able to enjoy a great vacation. Thank you again for trusting us with your journey 💚
Pura Vida!
Yuliana
This was a great trip which we had planned fo...
Costa Rica
|
Feb 19 - Mar 7, 2026
Ros B.
Portland, OR
| Reviewed on Mar 20, 2026
This was a great trip which we had planned for ages as a bucket list item. We wanted to concentrate on birds and the trip that KimKim planned (Yuliana) met all our wishlist items. We were happy to let Yuliana plan the route and do all the heavy lifting on the hotel bookings, car rental and many guided walks. We added a couple of our own once we knew a bit more about where we were and had familiarised ourselves with the various areas we travelled to.
We covered a lot of ground in 17 days and...
Read more
This was a great trip which we had planned for ages as a bucket list item. We wanted to concentrate on birds and the trip that KimKim planned (Yuliana) met all our wishlist items. We were happy to let Yuliana plan the route and do all the heavy lifting on the hotel bookings, car rental and many guided walks. We added a couple of our own once we knew a bit more about where we were and had familiarised ourselves with the various areas we travelled to.
We covered a lot of ground in 17 days and experienced a variety of climates, scenery and birdlife. It was great - Costa Rica is an easy country to get around, the people are friendly and the birds of course are amazing.
One thing to note is that hotel rooms do not have kettles (some had a coffee machine, others had nothing at all) so a travelling kettle is a good idea. Best guides: Christian at La Selva; Kendall at Curi Cancha and Dylan at Manual Antonio. Their knowledge is amazing. We loved it all.
Hotel Reviews
we really enjoyed this hotel, lovely surroundings, friendly staff, good restaurant and bar, nice big room and shower in a natural and exotic setting.
Location
Have to drive along a bumpy dirt road to get here
Heliconias Nature Inn
Peñas Blancas
Sorry but this was not our favourite. Room was dark, few powerpoints, no bedside lights, WC horrible. There were nicer rooms but ours was not one. Restaurant overpriced and bad food. Also it's too far from La Fortuna
The Falls at Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio
We enjoyed staying here the room was lovely
Dreams Lodge Monteverde
Santa Elena
Cleanliness & Comfort
We had cold water shower
Activity Reviews
Birdwatching Tour at Boca Tapada
Boca Tapada
Good guide for early morning walk after downpour Christian 2. Best part about BT was the feeders which brought loads of birds
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Night Walk at Tirimbina Rainforest Center
Sarapiquí
The link sent us to the wrong place; we eventually got there but it was pouring with rain. The bridge was very scary
Guides, Drivers and Staff
She knew her stuff
Birdwatching Tour at La Selva Biological Station
Sarapiquí
Our first bird tour, very good. Loads of birds. Christian very knowledgeable
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Bird Watching Tour
Caño Negro
This was good and we saw loads. Minor problem was others on the boat had no binoculars so it slowed everything down. 2 good guides and nice lunch afterwards.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Birdwatching at Arenal Mundo Aventura Natural Park
Arenal/La Fortuna
This was good after a rather scary drive to the park in the dark. Ronald very knowledgeable and pleasant. Nice selection of birds and good breakfast afterwards - appreciated after missing breakfast at the hotel
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Nature Walk at Danaus Ecological Park
Arenal/La Fortuna
This was OK , butterfly enclosure a highlight. Not many birds
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Carlos friendly and helpful
Early Birdwatching Tour at Curi-Cancha Reserve
Monteverde
One of the best trips - Kendall was amazing. Took us outside the reserve to see toucanets - brilliant. Lots of people but we saw lots of things thanks to him. He would have liked to start earlier and I think it would be good if he could have contacted us directly.
Quality of Experience
Kendall
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Hike
Monteverde
This was not a 'birdwatching' tour but was OK. Our fellow guests were a strange lot and not very friendly. But we did see a quetzal so that was cool. It was quite crowded.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Mar 20, 2026
Hola Ros,
Thank you so much for this wonderful review, it truly means a lot to me. I am so happy to hear that your trip lived up to such a special bucket list experience and that it matched your passion for birding so well.
It was a pleasure helping you plan this journey, and I am glad you felt comfortable letting me take care of the details while still having the flexibility to add your own experiences along the way. It sounds like you made the most of every moment and really embraced the...
Read more
Hola Ros,
Thank you so much for this wonderful review, it truly means a lot to me. I am so happy to hear that your trip lived up to such a special bucket list experience and that it matched your passion for birding so well.
It was a pleasure helping you plan this journey, and I am glad you felt comfortable letting me take care of the details while still having the flexibility to add your own experiences along the way. It sounds like you made the most of every moment and really embraced the diversity of what Costa Rica has to offer.
I love that you highlighted the variety of regions, climates, and birdlife you experienced, that is exactly what makes traveling here so unique. And thank you as well for the helpful tip about kettles, that is a great insight for future travelers.
It is also so nice to hear your feedback about the guides. I will be sure to pass along your kind words to them, they will be thrilled.
Thank you again for trusting me with such an important trip. I am so glad you loved it, and I hope Costa Rica stays with you for a long time.
Pura Vida!
Yuliana
The trip was greAt. THANK YOU
Costa Rica
|
Mar 12 - Mar 19, 2026
Linda L.
Newark, NJ
| Reviewed on Mar 20, 2026
The trip was greAT. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR HELPING US PLAN IT AND FOR BEING ACCOMODATING WITH OUR CHANGE REQUESTS.
May I make a few suggestions for your next clients visiting Costa Rica, all concerning the activities.
1) The kayaking in Mangroves was great, however I did not bring my kayaking gloves as it was stated that we would have a fun pedal/paddle kayak. This was not the case- no pedaling.
2) On the waterfall hike you should specify closed toe water shoes. I could not swim close to...
Read more
The trip was greAT. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR HELPING US PLAN IT AND FOR BEING ACCOMODATING WITH OUR CHANGE REQUESTS.
May I make a few suggestions for your next clients visiting Costa Rica, all concerning the activities.
1) The kayaking in Mangroves was great, however I did not bring my kayaking gloves as it was stated that we would have a fun pedal/paddle kayak. This was not the case- no pedaling.
2) On the waterfall hike you should specify closed toe water shoes. I could not swim close to the waterfall bc of the many rocks. I was barely able to swim in the water downstream due to the rocks.
3) We were a 5 minute walk to the Manuel Antonio National Park for the last 4 days, but we did not know that you had to reserve a ticket for the park days prior to our desired entrance day. We were unable to secure entrance.
Thanks again,
Linda
P.S. Sorry for the typos and all caps where present
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Mar 20, 2026
Hi Linda,
Thank you so much for your kind words. It truly means a lot to hear that you had a great trip. It was a pleasure helping you plan it, and I am especially glad we could accommodate your changes along the way.
I also really appreciate you taking the time to share these thoughtful suggestions. This kind of feedback is incredibly valuable and will be helpful to improve our services.
Thank you again for your trust and for traveling with us.
Warm regards,
Yuliana
Flawlessly planned trip! No worries from start to finish.
Costa Rica
|
Feb 17 - Feb 26, 2026
Frederick R.
Chicago, IL
| Reviewed on Mar 12, 2026
Each step of our trip was flawless! While traveling in a foreign country, KimKim made sure that everything was in place for us, from transit to/from the airport, to the delivery and pickup of our auto rental, to the hotels and activities! I would recommend KimKim to friends and family.
Read more
Each step of our trip was flawless! While traveling in a foreign country, KimKim made sure that everything was in place for us, from transit to/from the airport, to the delivery and pickup of our auto rental, to the hotels and activities! I would recommend KimKim to friends and family.
Hotel Reviews
Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas
San José
Good place for us to start our trip. The restaurant made a good sandwich.
Great location and wonderful staff! One way to improve the room would be to provide indirect and/or lamp lighting. There was only overhead lighting.
Location
The balcony opened up to a view of Arenal Volcano---very cool!
Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows
Sámara
Location
Just a quick 5-minute walk down to the beach. Glorious view of the ocean from the pool/bar area.
Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG
San José
Very helpful staff and good location for restaurants, park, and museums. Good ending for our trip.
Activity Review
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Boat Safari
Arenal/La Fortuna
Lots of fun and very educational! Our guide, Jorge, was outstanding.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jorge was wonderful!
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Mar 13, 2026
Hello Fred,
Thank you so much for your kind words. We are truly happy to hear that every step of your trip went smoothly and that you felt well supported throughout your travels.
It is wonderful to know that the transfers, car rental, hotels, and activities all worked out seamlessly and helped make your experience in Costa Rica enjoyable and stress free. That is exactly the kind of trip we hope to create for our travelers.
Thank you as well for recommending KimKim to your friends and...
Read more
Hello Fred,
Thank you so much for your kind words. We are truly happy to hear that every step of your trip went smoothly and that you felt well supported throughout your travels.
It is wonderful to know that the transfers, car rental, hotels, and activities all worked out seamlessly and helped make your experience in Costa Rica enjoyable and stress free. That is exactly the kind of trip we hope to create for our travelers.
Thank you as well for recommending KimKim to your friends and family. It means a lot to us. We hope Costa Rica left you with many beautiful memories, and we would love to help you plan another adventure in the future.
Pura Vida!
Yuliana
Tim Kim worry free travel in Costa Rica from Kim Kim
Costa Rica
|
Feb 17 - Feb 26, 2026
Karen R.
Chicago, IL
| Reviewed on Feb 27, 2026
This is the first time we've taken a trip that was pre-arranged with a trip specialist and it went amazingly well. Everything was taken care of for us, from transfers to hotels and outings. It was great to not have to worry about arranging that ourselves. All transfers and trips went smoothly and we didn't have to worry about trying to contact anyone for no shows. We really enjoyed our outings, especially our riverboat experience on the Rio frio with Canoa Aventura And our guide. Jorge. Jorge...
Read more
This is the first time we've taken a trip that was pre-arranged with a trip specialist and it went amazingly well. Everything was taken care of for us, from transfers to hotels and outings. It was great to not have to worry about arranging that ourselves. All transfers and trips went smoothly and we didn't have to worry about trying to contact anyone for no shows. We really enjoyed our outings, especially our riverboat experience on the Rio frio with Canoa Aventura And our guide. Jorge. Jorge was amazingly knowledgeable about the local wildlife and made our wildlife excursion very enjoyable and educational. We got to see sloths and monkeys and an amazing variety of bird life.
All in all our trip was stress-free for the most part and very enjoyable. We will definitely consider Kim Kim for future trips.
Hotel Review
Beautiful surroundings and atmosphere! Lovely breakfast. Wonderful hostess and staff. The room could use lamps or lower level lighting around the bed for reading. Also, better lighting in the bathroom for applying makeup, shaving, etc.
Authenticity & Character
Beautiful setting. We loved seeing all the colorful birds!
Location
Very convenient location for driving into La fortuna
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Feb 27, 2026
Hola Karen,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. It truly means a lot to us.
We are delighted to hear that your trip went so smoothly and that you were able to fully relax and enjoy every moment without the stress of planning and logistics. Knowing that the transfers, accommodations, and excursions met your expectations is incredibly rewarding for our team.
We are especially happy that you enjoyed your riverboat experience on the Río Frio and your time with Jorge....
Read more
Hola Karen,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. It truly means a lot to us.
We are delighted to hear that your trip went so smoothly and that you were able to fully relax and enjoy every moment without the stress of planning and logistics. Knowing that the transfers, accommodations, and excursions met your expectations is incredibly rewarding for our team.
We are especially happy that you enjoyed your riverboat experience on the Río Frio and your time with Jorge. It is always a joy to know our guests were able to connect with Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife and natural beauty in such a meaningful way.
Thank you again for trusting us with your journey. It was a pleasure helping plan your adventure, and we truly hope to welcome you back to Costa Rica in the future.
Pura Vida,
Yuliana
We enjoyed all the places we stayed, especial...
Costa Rica
|
Jan 5 - Jan 15, 2026
Jane C.
Portland, OR
| Reviewed on Jan 22, 2026
We enjoyed all the places we stayed, especially Lomas de Volcan. All the activities were well-chosen and worthwhile. All the transfers were seamless and easy. Great river rafting with Jesus, but really, all the Costa Rican naturalist guides were enthusiastic and knowledgeable. We learned a lot!
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Jan 22, 2026
Hello Jane,
Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the accommodations, activities, and seamless transfers, especially Lomas de Volcan and the rafting experience with Jesus. It’s wonderful to know our naturalist guides helped make your trip both fun and educational.
Thank you again for traveling with us. We would love to welcome you back to Costa Rica anytime in the future.
Pura Vida!
Yuliana
God suggestions, and good planning, great ho...
Costa Rica
|
Jan 5 - Jan 15, 2026
Dan B.
Seattle, WA
| Reviewed on Jan 16, 2026
God suggestions, and good planning, great hotels, cool activities, good communication. The kimkim was very patient with me as it took me 5 years to finally get to Costa Rica.
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Jan 17, 2026
Hello Dan,
Thank you so much for your kind words. It was truly a pleasure assisting you, and I am so happy you finally made it to Costa Rica after all that time. I am glad you enjoyed the planning process, the hotels, and the activities, and it means a lot to hear that the communication and patience made a difference. Thank you for trusting us, and I hope Costa Rica left you with unforgettable memories.
Pura vida!
Yuliana
We had a fantastic trip! Yuliana came up with...
Costa Rica
|
Dec 29 - Jan 4, 2026
Blake T.
Los Angeles, CA
| Reviewed on Jan 11, 2026
We had a fantastic trip! Yuliana came up with the initial itinerary and was very helpful and responsive with modifications. Even though our booking was relatively late, she got the four of us on all the adventures we asked for as well as hotels and transportation. All the transportation was on time and friendly. The adventures (rafting, jungle walk, zip line, etc...) were great and well planned. Overall, I would highly recommend the Kim Kim team (especially Yuliana) to plan a trip to Costa...
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We had a fantastic trip! Yuliana came up with the initial itinerary and was very helpful and responsive with modifications. Even though our booking was relatively late, she got the four of us on all the adventures we asked for as well as hotels and transportation. All the transportation was on time and friendly. The adventures (rafting, jungle walk, zip line, etc...) were great and well planned. Overall, I would highly recommend the Kim Kim team (especially Yuliana) to plan a trip to Costa Rica.
Hotel Reviews
Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG
San José
It was fine, only stayed there overnight and left at 5:30 in the morning for the rafting adventure.
Hotel Faro Arenal
Fortuna
Nice grounds with a trail through the rainforest and a view of the Arenal volcano. The rooms were very basic, but clean.
El Establo Mountain Hotel
Monteverde
Beautiful setting. The buildings with the rooms are scattered over the huge property. You have to take a shuttle to get around. The shuttles were fairly prompt. Nice room with a view. They have trails through the rainforest ($20) and other amenities that we did not get a chance to use. We would have liked to stay here for a few more days!
Activity Reviews
Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River
Costa Rica
Awesome! The guides were great. The rafting was amazing through the rapids! The thrill of the whole trip!!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
El Silencio Volcano Hike & Visit to La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna
It was overcast and we weren't able to ee the volcano. The guide was very informative and it was educational to learn about the region and the volcano.
Night Excursion at the Wildlife Refuge in Monteverde
Monteverde
fun night walk through the rainforest. We saw some interesting bugs and a snake. Not much more wildlife. There were a lot of people in several groups during the walk. The guides were very informative.
Selvatura Park Self-Guided Hanging Bridges & Zip Lining
Monteverde
Thrilling to go over the rainforest. A highlight for the teenagers.
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica
| Replied on Jan 12, 2026
Hello Blake,
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. It truly means a lot to me and my team.
I am so happy to hear that you had a fantastic trip and that everything came together smoothly, even with the late booking. It was a pleasure helping design your itinerary and making sure you were able to enjoy all the adventures you were excited about. Knowing that the transportation, activities, and overall planning met your expectations makes my day.
Thank you as well for...
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Hello Blake,
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. It truly means a lot to me and my team.
I am so happy to hear that you had a fantastic trip and that everything came together smoothly, even with the late booking. It was a pleasure helping design your itinerary and making sure you were able to enjoy all the adventures you were excited about. Knowing that the transportation, activities, and overall planning met your expectations makes my day.
Thank you as well for recommending Kimkim and for the kind mention. It was a joy working with your family, and I hope Costa Rica left you with wonderful memories. You are always welcome back, and I would be happy to help again in the future. 🌿✨
Pura Vida,
Yuliana
