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Bryan Leon

Growing up in a coffee plantation area near San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me a deep love and appreciation for nature. As a certified eco-tourism guide with extensive travel experience throughout my country, I'm passionate about sharing my knowledge and expertise with others.

Whether you're interested in birdwatching, wildlife spotting, or simply immersing yourself in the stunning beauty of Costa Rica's forests, I can help you create an unforgettable itinerary that meets your interests and needs.

For me, hiking through the forest is not only a thrilling adventure but also a form of therapy that helps me connect with the natural world.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"As a specialist in naturalist tours throughout Costa Rica's diverse forests, I'm passionate about sharing the country's unique beauty and biodiversity with visitors. Whether you're interested in cultural immersion or thrilling adventures, I can design a customized itinerary that meets your needs and interests.

With my in-depth knowledge of Costa Rica's rich culture and history, I can recommend hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that will allow you to experience the authentic essence of this incredible country. Whether you're traveling as a couple, a family, or a work team, I can create a personalized adventure that will create lasting memories.

Having lived on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, I have extensive experience with local activities and can guide you to the best spots for surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and more. Let me help you discover the magic of Costa Rica!"

How did you get involved in travel?

"From a young age, I developed a deep passion for travel, immersing myself in various activities during my school vacations. Whether it was hiking through breathtaking landscapes, exploring on horseback, or indulging in refreshing swims in rivers, my love for adventure and exploration blossomed. As I completed high school, I knew that I wanted to turn this passion into a meaningful career in the field of tourism. It was during my studies, where I delved into courses centered around biodiversity and culture, that my fascination with the interconnectedness of these aspects grew even stronger.
"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"One of my most unforgettable experiences occurred while working in Tortuguero, a small village located in the North Caribbean of the country. During one of my daily tours, I spotted a jaguar basking in the sun on a huge stone. Witnessing this wild cat in its natural habitat was an awe-inspiring moment that will forever remain etched in my memory.
"

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Favorite experiences

Corcovado National Park Hike from San Pedrillo Ranger Station

Embark on a thrilling adventure starting at Agujitas Beach on Drake Bay, where you'll explore the remote Corcovado National Park by boat and foot. After a 30-minute boat trip to the San Pedrillo Ranger Station, enjoy guided hiking through the park's rainforest and along its pristine coastline,...

Birdwatching in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

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...

Río Pacuare Whitewater Rafting

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...

Snorkeling or Scuba Diving at Isla del Caño

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.  

Recent trip reviews for Bryan

The best idea ever: Serendipity plan the trip!
Costa Rica | Nov 23 - Nov 29, 2024

Neeraja
Neeraja B.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Dec 07, 2024
The best idea I had was letting Serendipity plan my first trip to this beautiful country of Costa Rica. We just told the team we wanted an off-the-beaten track nature trip with hiking, animals and beaches. And boy did they deliver!! Whether it was a coffee tour, the kayak trip down the forested stream watching birds, chasing quetzals or spotting sloths and iguanas, we were in the best place and in the most gorgeous places, thanks to Serendipity. I fully recommend them!! Read more

The best idea I had was letting Serendipity plan my first trip to this beautiful country of Costa Rica. We just told the team we wanted an off-the-beaten track nature trip with hiking, animals and beaches. And boy did they deliver!! Whether it was a coffee tour, the kayak trip down the forested stream watching birds, chasing quetzals or spotting sloths and iguanas, we were in the best place and in the most gorgeous places, thanks to Serendipity. I fully recommend them!!

Activity Review
Kayak Adventure & Rainforest Hike in Punta Uva
Kayak Adventure & Rainforest Hike in Punta Uva
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Amazing trip in the most beautiful place with the best guide: Ricardo was Fantastic and such a naturalist!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Dec 09, 2024
Hola from Costa Rica! Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! It brings us immense joy to know that your first trip to Costa Rica was everything you hoped for—and more. We're thrilled that you enjoyed the off-the-beaten-path adventures, from hiking and wildlife encounters to serene kayaking and stunning landscapes. Your kind words inspire us to continue creating unforgettable experiences for travelers like you. Thank you for recommending us, and we hope to welcome you back to explore... Read more

Hola from Costa Rica!

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! It brings us immense joy to know that your first trip to Costa Rica was everything you hoped for—and more. We're thrilled that you enjoyed the off-the-beaten-path adventures, from hiking and wildlife encounters to serene kayaking and stunning landscapes.

Your kind words inspire us to continue creating unforgettable experiences for travelers like you. Thank you for recommending us, and we hope to welcome you back to explore even more of Costa Rica’s hidden treasures in the future! 🌿🐦

Pura Vida!
Bryan and The Serendipity Adventures Team🐛

Beautiful country and people! Costa Rica is a true gem.
Costa Rica | Nov 22 - Nov 30, 2024

Tenley
Tenley G.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 01, 2024
All of our drivers were amazing. Thank you Cristian, Alex, Mario, and Jorge for driving us safely around Costa Rica and telling us all about your beautiful country. The highlight was the night hike at Sukia Park with Juan and the guided hike through Manuel Antonio with Sosio. Read more

All of our drivers were amazing. Thank you Cristian, Alex, Mario, and Jorge for driving us safely around Costa Rica and telling us all about your beautiful country. The highlight was the night hike at Sukia Park with Juan and the guided hike through Manuel Antonio with Sosio.

Hotel Review
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna

The food was tremendous and the people so friendly. The ground and pools were amazing!

Authenticity & Character
The hot springs, food, and great service.
Location
Beautiful hot springs
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Lookout Tram, Ziplines, & Hanging Bridges Combination Adventure
Lookout Tram, Ziplines, & Hanging Bridges Combination Adventure
Arenal/La Fortuna
Guides, Drivers and Staff
So friendly, safe drivers, and shared tons of info about the country.
Transport
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Dec 07, 2024

Hola Tenley!

Thank you for your kind words! We’re thrilled you enjoyed your experience and that our team, including Cristian, Alex, Mario, Jorge, Juan, and Socio, helped make your trip memorable.

If you’d like to explore other areas of Costa Rica, feel free to contact us.

Pura Vida!
Bryan León,
Serendipity Adventures 🦜🦥☀️

This was another amazing trip with the kimkim...
Costa Rica | Nov 11 - Nov 21, 2024

Samantha
Samantha S.
Charlotte, NC | Reviewed on Nov 25, 2024
This was another amazing trip with the kimkim team! They use the most professional local guides and drivers and made everything effortless for us. All of our planned activities were exactly what we were looking for and the hotels were exceptional. We will only use kimkim for our international travel because of the customization to what we want and quality of everyone involved! Read more

This was another amazing trip with the kimkim team! They use the most professional local guides and drivers and made everything effortless for us. All of our planned activities were exactly what we were looking for and the hotels were exceptional. We will only use kimkim for our international travel because of the customization to what we want and quality of everyone involved!

Hotel Review
Koora Hotel at Monteverde
Monteverde

This hotel had stunning rooms and the attention to detail was beyond expectation. The food was exceptional and all the staff took the time to always call us by our names! Best customer service I have had at a hotel before. We will be back.

Authenticity & Character
Location
On a hill with floor to ceiling windows for view
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Nov 29, 2024

Hola Sam!

Thank you so much for your kind words!

I'm thrilled to hear you had another amazing trip and enjoyed the personalized planning, professional guides, and exceptional hotels. It was a pleasure working with you, and I can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure!

Pura Vida!
Bryan Leon,
Serendipity Adventures🐠

Costa Rica, an adventure!
Costa Rica | Nov 5 - Nov 14, 2024

Lori
Lori R.
Fremont, CA | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2024
Our driver Alex, from Serendipity was fantastic. His knowledge of culture, the land, and food was vast. His personality was an ease and delight to be around.
Our hotel in Arenal/La Fortuna, Hotel Arenal Kioro was gorgeous. The view from your bed is a beautiful volcano.
The food and hospitality, exceptional.
Our excursions from Serendipity were so much fun with truly knowledgeable guides. Zip lining, national park tours, a nite walk, visiting waterfalls, kayaking through the Mangroves,...
Read more

Our driver Alex, from Serendipity was fantastic. His knowledge of culture, the land, and food was vast. His personality was an ease and delight to be around.
Our hotel in Arenal/La Fortuna, Hotel Arenal Kioro was gorgeous. The view from your bed is a beautiful volcano.
The food and hospitality, exceptional.
Our excursions from Serendipity were so much fun with truly knowledgeable guides. Zip lining, national park tours, a nite walk, visiting waterfalls, kayaking through the Mangroves, a boat ride crossing a lake, who could ask for more.
The weather was rainy but the people who we encountered were all sunny and bright. I can't forget to mention the animals we were able to get up close and personal with. ( sloths, white faced monkeys, spider monkeys, Howler monkeys, tucans, other birds( we saw a rare sighting of the Resplendant Quetzal, thanks to our guide Andy ), snakes, and so many more.
We visited Arenal/La fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio. I believe we encompassed all the fun and beautiful zones in Costa Rica, thanks to Kim Kim's recommendations.
Thank you Kim Kim and Serendipity for a lifetime of beautiful memories.

Hotel Review
Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa
Fortuna

Beautiful Hotel. From your bed you have a view of the volcano. Hospitality and food are exceptional. Outdoor natural hot spring, not as hot as I thought they would be but still beautiful and relaxing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Each room has a view of the volcano
Staff
So nice and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
housekeeping did an amazing job
Activity Reviews
Lookout Tram, Ziplines, & Hanging Bridges Combination Adventure
Lookout Tram, Ziplines, & Hanging Bridges Combination Adventure
Arenal/La Fortuna

Guides made the experience fun and exciting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Costa Rica

We had so much fun learning about coffee and chocolate. Your guide takes you from picking a cocoa bean, roasting, grinding, adding vanilla and cane sugar, to eating. Coffee tour very informative.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cloud Forest Reserve Privately Guided Hike
Cloud Forest Reserve Privately Guided Hike
Monteverde

our guide Andy was so knowledgeable !!! From animals to plants, what an experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Nov 21, 2024

Hola Lori!

Your experience sounds absolutely amazing! It’s wonderful to hear how much you enjoyed Alex's expertise and the hospitality at Hotel Arenal Kioro.

The variety of excursions and the incredible wildlife sightings, including the Resplendent Quetzal, must have been unforgettable. Despite the rain, it’s clear Costa Rica's beauty and the warmth of its people shone through.

Thank you for sharing your experience!

Pura Vida!
Bryan

Great, but...
Costa Rica | Oct 19 - Oct 26, 2024

jim
jim r.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Nov 06, 2024
Alex is an amazing driver! Long rides went fast due to his knowledge and experiences in life. Some other things need improvement though. Accommodations were very good except at the Lapas Jungle Lodge. While the atmosphere was great, the rooms and meals were below average. Room had a hot water issue, hot tub was not hot and only 1 of 7 jets worked, ongoing construction, and staff morale seemed low. I would not use this hotel until the new ownership has finished refurbish. Most... Read more

Alex is an amazing driver! Long rides went fast due to his knowledge and experiences in life. Some other things need improvement though.

Accommodations were very good except at the Lapas Jungle Lodge. While the atmosphere was great, the rooms and meals were below average. Room had a hot water issue, hot tub was not hot and only 1 of 7 jets worked, ongoing construction, and staff morale seemed low. I would not use this hotel until the new ownership has finished refurbish.

Most excursions were awesome, but the descriptions could be better. Even their websites are pretty vague. The night walk was great but our guide was not engaging and seemed impatient. Same with the ATV guide. While nice people, it felt like they were just going through the motions.

The 2nd half of our itinerary was lacking in accurate (or at all) descriptions. We made it work, but wanted to bring it up for future guests.

Finally, Bryan's attention to detail needs improvement. He miscommunicated several times on, what I thought, were some pretty easy tasks. I'm sure it's a fast paced job, but this was the down season.

Overall we loved our trip but would not book through Serendipity again.

Hotel Reviews
Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience
San Carlos, Alajuela
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa Lapas Rainforest Eco-Resort
Tárcoles

They are in the middle of new ownership and they need to finish their construction before I would recommend. The grounds are great though!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Celeste Mountain Lodge
Bijagua

This is more like a B&B, but that is what's charming about it. Very clean and well maintained. The food is great, and an excellent value! We ate all but one of our meals there.

Authenticity & Character
Very relaxing atmosphere
Location
Don't miss out on their private hiking path, it was the highlight of our trip!
Staff
The staff seemed like family and all did a wonderful job.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super clean and orderly. Quiet and relaxing, I recommend a fan if you are not used to an open air room without A/C, we did just fine with a 10" fan on the days without a breeze. And we slept really well enjoying the night sounds.
Activity Reviews
Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River
Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River
Arenal/La Fortuna

Nice float and our raft guide was excellent.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arenal ATV Adventure
Arenal ATV Adventure
Arenal/La Fortuna

It was fun and we'd do it again with a different trail(s). We could have done without the "back 40" mud drive, it was not very big and not that interesting. Once in the mountains, the views were amazing, but not much of a chance to enjoy (eg slow down, pull over, etc. It was more about the ride than the scenery.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff was great, especially the young lady at reception, our guide was nice but could have been more attentive.
Transport
Driver was fun and engaging, in fact he was the one who noticed my phone/rain issue...well done!
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve Night Walk
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve Night Walk
Bijagua / Rio Celeste

Fantastic experience, the nature reserve has well maintained paths and structures.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide seemed overly focused on moving rather than enjoying. Not all tourists want to run at night, in a hot climate, to maybe see an animal. Many of us just want to be out there soaking up the atmosphere. Perhaps ask your group what they value.
Transport
Serendipity manager fumbled the transport. Many thanks to our hotel hosts for finding a alternate driver quickly. But this set off a chain reaction where our tour guide seemed annoyed and in a rush.
River Tubing, Río Celeste
River Tubing, Río Celeste
Bijagua / Rio Celeste

Great guide, very patient and upbeat.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fun guys, went out of their way to give extra time and effort. Well done, gentlemen!
Jungle Crocodile Safari
Jungle Crocodile Safari
Costa Rica

We can't review because our Serendipity manager was not very attentive, he seemed disengaged and not too effective at his job.

Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Nov 06, 2024

Hola Jim,

Thank you for your thoughtful feedback!

I’m happy to hear you enjoyed Alex’s driving and most of the excursions. I appreciate your comments on the Villas Lapas Eco-Resort, and I’ll make sure to keep that in mind for future trips. I’m sorry to hear the communication and details weren’t up to your expectations, and I’ll work on improving these areas.

Your feedback is invaluable, and I’ll ensure it helps enhance the experience for future travelers.

Best regards,
Bryan

Bryan put together a great trip for us. we sp...
Costa Rica | Jul 24 - Aug 1, 2024

R
Rei M.
Dublin, CA | Reviewed on Sep 03, 2024
Bryan put together a great trip for us. we spent 10 days in Costa Rica, including Tortuguero, Arenal, and Manuel Antonio. Nice mix of activities and great guides. For many of the activities, it was just the 2 of us ( I went with my kid) and guide, which was nice, more relaxing and added flexibility vs touring with a group. Awesome nature, ziplining in Arenal is a must, wished we spent more time in Manuel Antonio so we could enjoy the beach and ocean (we were only there 1.5 days, I think it... Read more

Bryan put together a great trip for us. we spent 10 days in Costa Rica, including Tortuguero, Arenal, and Manuel Antonio. Nice mix of activities and great guides. For many of the activities, it was just the 2 of us ( I went with my kid) and guide, which was nice, more relaxing and added flexibility vs touring with a group. Awesome nature, ziplining in Arenal is a must, wished we spent more time in Manuel Antonio so we could enjoy the beach and ocean (we were only there 1.5 days, I think it deserves minimum of 3-4 days, although we got in a spectacular hike with lots of wildlife including sloths and monkeys).
Also really appreciated that being an anxious traveler, I had questions every single day, and Bryan and his staff got back to me promptly every question I texted. While I never met them in person, I always felt like they were present and ready to help.

Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Sep 04, 2024

Hola, Rei!

Thank you for your kind words!

I'm so glad to hear you had a great time and enjoyed the mix of activities and personalized experience. Your feedback about Manuel Antonio is noted, and I'll keep that in mind for future recommendations.

If you ever need help planning another adventure or have any questions, feel free to reach out.

Pura Vida! 🌟

Serendipity Adventures were excellent!
Costa Rica | Jul 9 - Aug 2, 2024

K
Kenan G.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Sep 03, 2024
Serendipity Adventures were excellent! It was so helpful to have a local connection on the ground to help with everything from driving directions to restaurant recommendations to confirming our upcoming reservations. Wilman even managed to get us a better room at one resort. Rio Celeste Hideaway and Luna Lodge were two highlights of the trip. Highly recommend! Read more

Serendipity Adventures were excellent! It was so helpful to have a local connection on the ground to help with everything from driving directions to restaurant recommendations to confirming our upcoming reservations. Wilman even managed to get us a better room at one resort. Rio Celeste Hideaway and Luna Lodge were two highlights of the trip. Highly recommend!

Hotel Review
Luna Lodge

Hidden gem in the rainforest! Amazing energy, delicious food, and friendly service. A must stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Guided Nature Walk at Ecological Park & Butterfly Garden Danaus
Private Guided Nature Walk at Ecological Park & Butterfly Garden Danaus
Costa Rica

Super fun, very educational, and very manageable with small kids!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve Night Walk
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve Night Walk
Bijagua / Rio Celeste

Amazing experience like nothing else in the world.

Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Sep 04, 2024

Hola Kenan!

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback!

I’m thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic experience with us and that the local support made a difference. It’s great to know that Rio Celeste Hideaway and Luna Lodge were highlights of your trip. Your recommendation means a lot to us!

If you ever need assistance with another adventure or have any more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Pura Vida! 🌟

Book with confidence!
Costa Rica | Jun 30 - Jul 8, 2024

Jason
Jason B.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 09, 2024

Mariano, Socio and everyone were incredibly knowledgeable, kind and enthusiastic! Kimkim and especially Serendipitious Adventures were excellent. Master logisticians. Our trip was seamless and ran like clockwork. Thanks very much! Book with confidence.

Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jul 09, 2024

Hola Jason!

Thank you so much for your kind words!

We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience with Mariano, and our team at Serendipity Adventures. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we're glad everything went seamlessly. We strive to provide the best possible service for our travelers.

Pura Vida!
Bryan Leon,
Serendipity Adventures🌋

Great family vacation
Costa Rica | Jun 15 - Jun 22, 2024

K
Kristina Y.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jun 25, 2024
We had a great time in Costa Rica. The team at Serendipity Adventures was phenomenal. We loved Alex! He was kind, patient, and knowledgeable. Our guide at Manuel Antonio National Park, Andres, was so passionate and enthusiastic. We loved our time with him -- we saw so many animals and had a wonderful time! Our kids loved Selvatura and ziplining. We all loved the wildlife. Our lodging was great, with incredible views of the surrounding wildlife. The staff at Koora were the most kind and... Read more

We had a great time in Costa Rica. The team at Serendipity Adventures was phenomenal. We loved Alex! He was kind, patient, and knowledgeable. Our guide at Manuel Antonio National Park, Andres, was so passionate and enthusiastic. We loved our time with him -- we saw so many animals and had a wonderful time! Our kids loved Selvatura and ziplining. We all loved the wildlife. Our lodging was great, with incredible views of the surrounding wildlife. The staff at Koora were the most kind and attentive team we experienced. Overall, we had a fantastic visit and highly recommend it!

Hotel Reviews
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Fortuna
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Koora Hotel at Monteverde
Monteverde
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
If I could give 6 stars, I would!
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Mariposa Hotel
Manuel Antonio
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
All Day Adventure at Selvatura, including Zipline, Hanging Bridges, and Fauna Exhibitions
All Day Adventure at Selvatura, including Zipline, Hanging Bridges, and Fauna Exhibitions
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Introduction to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano
Introduction to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private: Arenal Volcano & 1968 Reserve Guided Hike
Private: Arenal Volcano & 1968 Reserve Guided Hike
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Sloth Observation Tour
Private Sloth Observation Tour
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private: Night Walk in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Private: Night Walk in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Monteverde
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catamaran Adventure from Manuel Antonio
Catamaran Adventure from Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 25, 2024
Hola Kristina, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic time in Costa Rica and that our team at Serendipity Adventures exceeded your expectations. We are delighted that Alex and Andres made your experience memorable with their kindness, patience, and enthusiasm. It’s great to hear that you enjoyed the wildlife and activities like ziplining at Selvatura. We're also pleased that you found the lodging and the staff at Koora to be... Read more

Hola Kristina,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review!

We are thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic time in Costa Rica and that our team at Serendipity Adventures exceeded your expectations.

We are delighted that Alex and Andres made your experience memorable with their kindness, patience, and enthusiasm. It’s great to hear that you enjoyed the wildlife and activities like ziplining at Selvatura. We're also pleased that you found the lodging and the staff at Koora to be exceptional.

Your positive feedback means a lot to us, and we are grateful for your recommendation. We hope to welcome you and your family back to Costa Rica for another incredible adventure soon!

Pura Vida,
Bryan Leon,
Serendipity Adventures, Costa Rica🐒

Self-drive family vacation thru the jungles of North Central CR
Costa Rica | Jun 6 - Jun 14, 2024

Nicole
Nicole W.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Jun 16, 2024
Self-driving was an excellent option for our family of 4 to see so much North Central Costa Rica had to offer.
Our family's favorite activity was Tubing the Rio Celeste. Our guides stayed with us to make it fun and safe. They stopped at great spots for swimming and rope swinging. This made it so magical for my kids.
A close second favorite was a cooking class at Maquenque Eco Lodge. We walked through their organic garden selecting our ingredients and then cooked with the chef. Andres was a...
Read more

Self-driving was an excellent option for our family of 4 to see so much North Central Costa Rica had to offer.
Our family's favorite activity was Tubing the Rio Celeste. Our guides stayed with us to make it fun and safe. They stopped at great spots for swimming and rope swinging. This made it so magical for my kids.
A close second favorite was a cooking class at Maquenque Eco Lodge. We walked through their organic garden selecting our ingredients and then cooked with the chef. Andres was a fantastic guide in several of our activities there.
We wanted to see unique animals in nature and a great guide and eco lodge is necessary to achieve this. Our guide Andy at Forest Alive walked us through Monteverde preserve and pointed out amazing flora and fauna, the most exciting moment was watching the male and female Resplendent Quetzal return/leave the nest.
We had delicious food at all our eco lodges. I appreciated the locations that were selected for us because they matched our values and preferences perfectly.
Final Tip: self- drive is safe for families who will use a map app at all times, drive during daytime only, pay close attention to an ever-changing road system, and rent a 4x4 vehicle which is necessary in the mountains.

Hotel Reviews
Maquenque Ecolodge
Boca Tapada

An immersive jungle experience! The staff at Maquenque make an already impressive location become a top-rated experience. Staff are friendly, multilingual, and helpful. They organized a cooking class with a chef. This was our favorite activity here! My kids helped collect scallions, eggs, herbs, corn, cocao pods, and more to use in our meal. The chef and Andres guided us through making yuca mash, patacones, corn tortillas with scrambled eggs, and several recipes from the chocolate we made from grinding the seeds. It was all delicious and we have already made the yuca mash at home. A note: the treehouses are a fantastic experience but keep in mind your temperature inside is the same as outside. For us, the rain and high humidity kept all our clothes wet the whole time. It's a good place to bring quick dry clothes or use the laundry service if you stay a few days.

Authenticity & Character
Unique lodging, staff who truly know their individual crafts
Location
It is fantastic and so unique with the ferry to the island. However it is quite a hike from the airport that may deter some.
Staff
Andres was exceptional for activities. Henry was a fantastic waiter.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cleanliness was excellent. Beds were comfy. However a stronger fan would have been preferable in the treehouse due to hot temps that made us sweat all night. Also there was a plague of May beetles that dive bombed our food at the restaurant and tried to get into every nook and cranny of our treehouse to get to our light on. Thousands of beetles kept swarming the screen until lights were off.
Casitas Tenorio
Upala, Alajuela

The Casita has everything you can want and need: strong fan kept us comfortable, drying racks are so helpful to dry out wet clothes from rainforest activities, book of local menus and activities, and a great breakfast. Nana was so wonderful to accommodate allergy food needs. She is gluten-free herself and had an array of recipes options for pancakes day with homemade jam, juices, and honey. The trail on the property was also a nice family activity. We even had a sloth living in the tree in front of our Casita. So special!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy to access in Bijuagua
Staff
Nana was so kind and helpful for food allergy needs
Cleanliness & Comfort
The strong fans and drying racks were so appreciated and I hadn't thought that would be important until everything was soaked from rainforest activities
Los Pinos - Cabañas & Jardines
Monteverde Costa Rica

We loved this Casita! It had everything we needed for our family of 4 to stay and cook. The kitchen allowed us to visit a supermercado and cook our own meals. My kids loved having their own rooms and bathrooms after several days of being in the same car and room at other lodging. The property has a nice set of trails and a little playground for kids. It is located close to everything you want in Monteverde. The staff was helpful when we locked ourselves out of our room (twice!).

Authenticity & Character
Location
Everything is close by
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Poas Volcano Lodge
Vara Blanca

This is a hidden gem! The hotel is fancy and sparkling clean. The food is delicious and staff is wonderful. There is a game room which is great for families to have down time outside of the room if weather is wet and cold outside. I hear the view is amazing but we had fog and rain that prevented a view. The space heaters in the room helped us dry our boots. The fireplaces in the library and restaurant kept us warm. My husband and I hope to return.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 17, 2024

Hola Nicole!

Thank you for the wonderful review!

We're thrilled to hear that self-driving allowed your family to explore so much of Costa Rica. It sounds like you had amazing experiences tubing the Rio Celeste, cooking at Maquenque Eco Lodge, and exploring Monteverde.

We're glad the eco lodges matched your preferences and that you enjoyed the delicious food. Your tips for a safe trip are very helpful. Thank you again for sharing your experience!

Have a great day!
Bryan Leon,
Serendipity Adventures 🦀