Profile photo for Charlotte Törnqvist
4986 messages
active 12 hours ago

Charlotte Törnqvist

I was born and raised in northern Sweden. At the age of 18, I had the privilege of doing a high school exchange year in Costa Rica. I fell in love with the country, the people, and well, my husband-to-be too!
As soon as I left, I wanted to come back, and after a while, I did return to study at the University... Nearly 30 years have passed now, I am still here, and I have no plans on leaving Costa Rica to live elsewhere. I have built my life in this incredibly beautiful country, and I love the Pura Vida!

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in designing personalized travel itineraries for all of Costa Rica (both fully guided private trips, and independent style trips), accommodating special interests, special needs, and specific preferences. There is no preset route or schedule, I will start from scratch every time, to make sure every client makes the most out of their vacation. I love to include unique adventures and interesting nature encounters, and also to encourage my clients to visit rural areas together with local guides, to get to see the "real" Costa Rica and meet the local people."

How did you get involved in travel?

"I love traveling, getting to know new sites and different cultures. Before settling in Costa Rica, I traveled around the world. During my years in Costa Rica, I have extensively explored the country, and I am always amazed and delighted by the variety of experiences available in such a small area. I love my job because I get to facilitate life-changing experiences for my clients. I have been working within the tourism sector my whole professional career. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I will never forget the first time I saw a Leatherback Turtle (or Baula) nest on Playa Grande in Guanacaste. As she came out of the ocean in the moonlight, she slowly and with huge effort made her way further up on the beach, and I couldn't believe how huge she was! She was almost 2 meters long, which means she probably weighed close to 600 kg. she pulled herself far up on the beach, through the soft sand, to select the spot where to dig a deep hole using her giant front flippers as shovels... Then, she turn around towards the ocean, and deposited a big pile of round soft eggs deep in the hole, filled it with sand again, and compacted the sand on top with her flippers. Afterward, she didn't return to the ocean right away, she pulled herself back and forth a few times, towards the ocean and then back higher on the beach, towards the ocean, and then higher on the beach again... The guide explained that the turtles do that to make it less evident where the eggs are laid, to protect the eggs from predators. Finally, she decided it was time to go, and she pulled herself into the water and disappeared in the waves. It was like a dream, what a show! I felt like I had seen a live dinosaur! I will never forget that WOW experience..."

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
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Road trip itineraries

Favorite experiences

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...

Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall

First, you'll head towards the base of the volcano to hike Arenal 1968. This is a network of trails named after Arenal's last major eruption. The event was so catastrophic it transformed some of the region’s topography, and lava fields now dominate one side of the volcano. The trails wind through...

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Hike

Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, one of the jewels in Costa Rica's ecological crown, on this guided hiking excursion. Known as the "green lung of Costa Rica" due to its rich biodiversity, this 26,000-acre (3,500-hectare) reserve is high in the country's mountainous northwest region....

Canyoning in the Lost Canyon

Go waterfall rappelling, also known as canyoning, in the jungle. This activity is one of the most popular adventure sports in Costa Rica. In a canyon in the heart of the rainforest, your guide will provide brief safety instructions and outfit you with a harness. You'll then rappel down the side...

Turtle Nesting & Hatching in Tortuguero National Park

Unlike many national parks in Costa Rica, Tortuguero National Park is unique in that it almost exclusively revolves around the water. And the best way to explore this 120-mile (312-square-km) protected area is by hopping in a canoe and navigating the network of arterial waterways that snake...

Recent trip reviews for Charlotte

Perfection in every way
Costa Rica | Mar 15 - Mar 21, 2024

Geoffrey
Geoffrey P.
Dania Beach, FL | Reviewed on Mar 22, 2024
From start to finish, both KimKim and their local tour guide partners and companies utilized, were fantastic. As for KimKim itself - with the exception of one time where I had to email a few times to get a reply while awaiting some answers - the professionalism and communication was excellent. I was very happy with the planning process. The ground transportation by Alex was perfect and then for the four subsequent days of touring, our private dedicated tour guide Willy was absolutely... Read more

From start to finish, both KimKim and their local tour guide partners and companies utilized, were fantastic. As for KimKim itself - with the exception of one time where I had to email a few times to get a reply while awaiting some answers - the professionalism and communication was excellent. I was very happy with the planning process. The ground transportation by Alex was perfect and then for the four subsequent days of touring, our private dedicated tour guide Willy was absolutely phenomenal in every way. Not only was Willy helpful and professional, but he was wonderful with our 10 and 6 year olds which in and of itself is enough for a glowing review. I have nothing but good things to say about everyone involved in this process and can’t wait to use KimKim again, and if we go to Costa Rica again, we will absolutely want driver Alex and tour guide and specialist Willy!

Hotel Review
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
La Fortuna

First class service and accommodations, with unbelievably helpful and professional staff. Nothing but smiles all day every day and a willingness to make the vacation and hotel stay comfortable and wonderful. The hotel is beautiful, secluded, exclusive and enormous (when also considering the club rio aspect). The pools and hot springs are incredible as is the children’s game room and niceties like a helpful essentials type store and free laundry accommodations. The food wasn’t what we hoped for - it was not terrible by any means - but just not up to the expectations given the VERY high price. The sushi was good and the restaurant down near club rio activities was quite good but that’s about it. The morning buffet was very mediocre and we made sure to leave the hotel for breakfast after trying it twice. The hotel pizza and non sushi dinner options were not enjoyable either. Again, not horrendous just not what we’d expect given all the other incredible aspects of the hotel and the cost of course. We will certainly return, we just know we will mostly eat downtown in La Fortuna. Otherwise, absolutely wonderful in every way

Authenticity & Character
Location
A bit hard to get to but AMAZING view and location
Staff
Amazing! Extremely friendly, helpful. Always smiling.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Mar 22, 2024
Dear Geoffrey, Thank you for your amazing review! For us at Serendipity Adventures in Costa Rica it is so nice to know our service as a local specialist for Kimkim is appreciated, and especially the personalized attention of our coworkers Alex and Willy.
We will love to help you plan another Costa Rica vacation in the near future, and serve you in country, so feel free to reach out any time and we will make sure Alex and Willy are assigned to your family.
In terms of the honest and...
Read more

Dear Geoffrey,

Thank you for your amazing review! For us at Serendipity Adventures in Costa Rica it is so nice to know our service as a local specialist for Kimkim is appreciated, and especially the personalized attention of our coworkers Alex and Willy.
We will love to help you plan another Costa Rica vacation in the near future, and serve you in country, so feel free to reach out any time and we will make sure Alex and Willy are assigned to your family.
In terms of the honest and detailed feedback of the hotel, it is also highly appreciated, and we will share the details with the staff of the Resort, so that they can use it in their efforts to always improve.

Pura vida,
Charlotte

Kim Kim (NO to a second chance)
Costa Rica | Feb 11 - Feb 18, 2024

M
Michael S.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 08, 2024
I was the person responsible for contacting KimKim and organizing our trip and was extremely disappointed when my first contact Sergio, abruptly disappeared without any warning and was no longer our contact once the majority of the trip had been planned.
Once Sergio was no longer involved we were shuffled between, Charlotte, Nancy and Helen without any understanding of the role each of these persons had in finalizing our trip. We felt abandoned and frustrated when we tried to get answers to...
Read more

I was the person responsible for contacting KimKim and organizing our trip and was extremely disappointed when my first contact Sergio, abruptly disappeared without any warning and was no longer our contact once the majority of the trip had been planned.
Once Sergio was no longer involved we were shuffled between, Charlotte, Nancy and Helen without any understanding of the role each of these persons had in finalizing our trip. We felt abandoned and frustrated when we tried to get answers to our questions because we no longer had a single contact who was familiar with the initial planning of our trip.
Our trip was salvaged when wonderful Wilman took over the management of the trip, but even then it took much correspondence and numerous conversations during the trip between my daughter (who had to devote many unplanned hours) and Wilman to ensure that the expectations and vision of the trip developed initially with Sergio (Serendipity) were carried out.
I would not use Kim Kim again as a booking agent for a trip because of the lack of transparency about their organization and relationship with the venders they use for putting the boots on the ground.

Hotel Reviews
Maquenque Ecolodge
Boca Tapada
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Congo Bongo EcoVillage Costa Rica
Manzanillo, Limon
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Birdwatching Tour in Maquenque
Birdwatching Tour in Maquenque
Boca Tapada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Safari Kayak in Tres Amigos River
Safari Kayak in Tres Amigos River
Boca Tapada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
San Carlos River Boat Tour
San Carlos River Boat Tour
Boca Tapada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boca Tapada Night Tour
Boca Tapada Night Tour
Boca Tapada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Transfer from Boca Tapada to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca with En-route Rafting on the Sarapiquí River
Private Transfer from Boca Tapada to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca with En-route Rafting on the Sarapiquí River
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dive into Afro-Caribbean Culture with Exquisite Cooking Classes
Dive into Afro-Caribbean Culture with Exquisite Cooking Classes
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Mar 22, 2024
Hi Michael,
I received your review, and I was sorry to read you are not satisfied with the process prior to your travels. At the same time, I am glad to know that in the end you had an enjoyable trip including all the elements offered during the sales process. It is heartwarming to know how much you appreciate our coworker Wilman. In the response to your daughter Miranda's review, I explained how we work as a team within the company and that it is normal that various people are involved in...
Read more

Hi Michael,
I received your review, and I was sorry to read you are not satisfied with the process prior to your travels. At the same time, I am glad to know that in the end you had an enjoyable trip including all the elements offered during the sales process. It is heartwarming to know how much you appreciate our coworker Wilman. In the response to your daughter Miranda's review, I explained how we work as a team within the company and that it is normal that various people are involved in different stages of the process, but I do understand that some clients can prefer to have a single contact person so reducing the number of contacts is a valuable feedback and something we can take into account for the future. Luckily, as you mention, the last few months prior to your trip Wilman was the person in charge of communicating with your group, and that is also why we decided to allocate a free service-upgrade by having Wilman travel to the Carribean beach area to meet you and assist you in person, and it is very satisfactory to know that worked out so well.
So, thank you for taking the time to point out the good and bad! We always strive to improve our services and we take all feedback seriously and as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Kind Regards,
Charlotte

A challenging booking experience that resulted in a good trip
Costa Rica | Feb 11 - Feb 18, 2024

Miranda
Miranda S.
Canada | Reviewed on Feb 26, 2024
It's unfortunate that Charlotte is noted as our local specialist, since she most certainly was not. Our trip was booked through an initial agent, Sergio, and once we had paid for the tour he immediately disappeared. We were directed to Charlotte who was unresponsive and difficult to get details from. After repeated requests, she finally assigned our file to a new rep, Wilman, who was very helpful in sorting out the many details of our trip. As we worked through it, it became clear that much... Read more

It's unfortunate that Charlotte is noted as our local specialist, since she most certainly was not. Our trip was booked through an initial agent, Sergio, and once we had paid for the tour he immediately disappeared. We were directed to Charlotte who was unresponsive and difficult to get details from. After repeated requests, she finally assigned our file to a new rep, Wilman, who was very helpful in sorting out the many details of our trip. As we worked through it, it became clear that much of what we were sold did not line up clearly with the operational details required to make it work. Working 1:1 with Wilman we were able to sort it out and the trip was enjoyable and relatively seamless for our family, but it wasn't without significant effort and an exceptional amount of back and forth to ensure that the trip was in order. We credit Wilman with saving this trip for us, and aren't sure of the role which Charlotte played.

Hotel Reviews
Maquenque Ecolodge
Boca Tapada

This was a unique and interesting property and we really enjoyed our stay. The property is full of amazing wildlife, and the staff were friendly and accomodating. The accomodations were clean and inviting and we loved the feeling of sleeping in the treetops with the animals. The one drawback here was the remoteness of some of the treehouses. We had 4 across our large group, and the distance between them was significant. Walking back to the rooms at night alone was a little unnerving given the animals we'd seen roaming the property earlier in the day! Would highly recommend Maquenque lodge

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Congo Bongo EcoVillage Costa Rica
Manzanillo, Limon

This was a unique property, though a little more rustic than we'd imagined. A number of the reviews note that this is more of a 'glamping property' which felt accurate. The rooms were creatively designed, and very open to the elements. As such, it was hard for them to feel (or be) clean. The kitchenwares were often freshly covered with animal feces and the bedroom area was always damp feeling, particularly at night. The walk to the beach was long, but well marked. And from there it was an easy walk to the town of Manzanillo. The staff at the property were very willing to assist and acomodate.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto
San José

Good option near the airport. There was also a grocery store and a handful of restaurants to walk to nearby.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Birdwatching Tour in Maquenque
Birdwatching Tour in Maquenque
Boca Tapada

This activity was a bit underwhelming. It was planned as a very early morning after a very long travel day. By the time we got going, there wasn't as much to see. We did see a Tapir which was awesome, but the birds and guide weren't otherwise noteworthy.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Safari Kayak in Tres Amigos River
Safari Kayak in Tres Amigos River
Boca Tapada

This was a great trip, though longer than our group was prepared for. The guides were very good and pointed out notable sights and animals as we passed them.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
San Carlos River Boat Tour
San Carlos River Boat Tour
Boca Tapada

we enjoyed abut 50% of this tour. Our guide was excellent, and the driver had a sharp eye for finding animals by the shoreline. Outside of that, the tour got a little long and boring. And on the way back, the guide was on his phone and we weren't able to stop for animal spottings, which made it a bit of a lackluster end to what was an otherwise decent tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boca Tapada Night Tour
Boca Tapada Night Tour
Boca Tapada

This was a great experience with a good guide. We enjoyed the tour and saw a number of interesting frogs, birds, snakes and other creatures.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Transfer from Boca Tapada to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca with En-route Rafting on the Sarapiquí River
Private Transfer from Boca Tapada to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca with En-route Rafting on the Sarapiquí River
Costa Rica

Our rafting tour was a highlight on our trip! The group of guides were phenomenal in engaging our full group and making our participants of all different levels feel confident and safe out on the water. We had a great time and would highly recommend this to others. The lunch following the rafting was great too!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 28, 2024
Hi Miranda, Thank you for taking the time to review the hotels and operators included in your package. I was sorry to hear you were not totally satisfied with our, and particularly my own, services. To be honest, I was surprised to read you found me unresponsive, so I went back to check the account and found that I did communicate with you or your father in the Kimkim chat on 24 different dates, plus 7 times via e-mail! The reason I was appointed as your local specialist is due to the... Read more

Hi Miranda,

Thank you for taking the time to review the hotels and operators included in your package.

I was sorry to hear you were not totally satisfied with our, and particularly my own, services. To be honest, I was surprised to read you found me unresponsive, so I went back to check the account and found that I did communicate with you or your father in the Kimkim chat on 24 different dates, plus 7 times via e-mail!

The reason I was appointed as your local specialist is due to the fact that the Kimkim platform will automatically assign ONE person as such, even though a few of us will always be involved. Within our company, Serendipity Adventures, we work as a team, and it was Sergio that was in contact with you during the planning process, Nancy and I during the reservation/preparation process, and Wilman during the operations of your trip.

I am very happy about your comments about Wilman, because he is indeed a very important person when it comes to pursuing 100% client satisfaction (which is always our goal). I am a first-hand witness of how much time and effort he put into securing and reconfirming every detail of your trip plan during the weeks prior to your trip. Most of the time, clients will communicate with Wilman via e-mail, chat, or WhatsApp before-, during-, and after their trip, but in your case we went a step further by having Wilman travel to the Caribbean coast that week, with the idea that he could be close by and assist you in person in case you would need any additional service. Luckily, based on your positive comments, I see it worked out great.

And last but not least, knowing it was an in-house operation with our professional Serendipity Adventures river guides, I was glad to read that the rafting in the Sarapiqui river was the highlight of your trip! I will make sure to share that note with the guides and support staff involved.

Kind Regards,
Charlotte

Costa Rica❤️
Costa Rica | Jan 10 - Jan 19, 2024

Bela
Bela D.
Hungary | Reviewed on Jan 26, 2024
Witman was great and helpful always. Everything has gone due to the scheduled plan, if not he corrected quickly, thx Read more

Witman was great and helpful always. Everything has gone due to the scheduled plan, if not he corrected quickly, thx

Hotel Review
Hotel Costa Verde
Manuel Antonio

The location of the hotel is amazing but it really needs renewal and more friendly staff at the frontdesk.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Kindness
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 28, 2024

Hello Bela,
Thank you very much for your feedback!
I have shared your comments with Wilman and the staff at Hotel Costa Verde.

Pura Vida!
Charlotte

Absolutely loved our trip to Costa Rica
Costa Rica | Jan 14 - Jan 21, 2024

Mandy
Mandy F.
Centreville, MD | Reviewed on Jan 22, 2024
Absolutely loved our trip to Costa Rica. The planning was fun. We were able to see so much of the country and do all of the activities that were the right fit for our family. Read more

Absolutely loved our trip to Costa Rica. The planning was fun. We were able to see so much of the country and do all of the activities that were the right fit for our family.

Hotel Reviews
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna

This hotel was great! A little hard to find. Tucked away behind another hotel. The room size was good for my husband and I and two teenagers. It was nice and quiet, aside from the birds in the morning:) We slept so well! Each morning, I sat on the patio outside and read my book while watching hummingbirds, and listening to the sounds of nature. Everyone was very friendly. Loved the pool area and the hot springs. The food by the pool was great. We had the nachos. The sushi was also delicious. Would definitely recommend this place to other family’s traveling to Costa Rica. We were very comfortable. The location was really good as well. We were close to La Fortuna, 10 minutes, and close to hanging bridges, which were 10 minutes the other way.

Authenticity & Character
Felt like we were tucked away in nature. Each room felt very private. Lots of greenery.
Location
It was 10 minutes from La Fortuna. There were lots of Hot Springs and surrounding hotels and the hanging bridges park close by.
Staff
Really only interacted with the ladies by the pool that served us drinks and food. Very friendly. It is definitely more relaxed and you wait a little longer for food but we were in paradise so we were fine with that.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The housekeepers made a little puppy out of our towels, which the kids got a kick out of. Rooms were very clean.
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Monteverde Costa Rica

Out of our three hotels, this was our least favorite. We drove 3 1/2 hours from La Fortuna to Monteverde. We were tired from being in a cramped car. Our room was ready. Luckily when we got there. When we walked in the room was very small, no dresser or anywhere to put anything, and there was no air-conditioning and it was about 85° in the room. We went back to the front desk, but they had nothing else available. I don’t blame the hotel, but this is definitely, something Kim Kim should have told us. Apparently you can upgrade to a room with air-conditioning. At night time there was a breeze and it was cool so we had no trouble sleeping. We felt uncomfortable after complaining about the room. We kind of felt like all of the employees talked to each other about us, because we were ready to leave after realizing there was no air-conditioning.

Authenticity & Character
Felt very authentic. My husband and I loved walking around the garden. I think if my husband and I came here alone, it would have been a different experience. It was charming and quiet and relaxing.
Location
It was only about a mile from town but to walk there you’re on dusty, curvy roads with not much of a side road.
Staff
The bartender in the indoor pool area was very short with my husband. Never really smiled. We noticed at dinner how friendly the staff was with locals, but different with us. Just kind of felt all around uncomfortable. When we first mentioned that we were not happy with no air-conditioning the lady at the front desk looked at us like we were crazy. She told us that it gets cooler at night and we would be fine.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Extremely small room. Enough room for two beds. Nowhere to put our suitcases and no dresser to put our clothes. Bathroom was small as well. We were on top of each other in a hot room. Got cool at night though. I do think there are other bigger rooms available upon request. Not sure how our travel agent would think that four of us would be comfortable in that tiny room with no air.
Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
Tamarindo

Stunning views, amazing food, comfortable rooms and friendly staff. It was the perfect location, right in the center of Tamarindo.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It was right in the center of Tamarindo. Plenty of shopping and dining options. We stayed one night on the beach side, which was a little noisier, and then two nights on the other side of the street. it was very quiet and clean. We heard howler monkeys in the morning which was cool.
Staff
Brenda, our server by the pool was so great. She was very friendly and always seemed to be there when we needed her. Our family joked that our lives would be better if we could just take our girl Brenda home with us..
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable. My only complaint would be that there aren’t enough chairs around the big pool. There were literally people scoping them out at 6 AM. My husband and I sat on the concrete the first day while the kids swam.
Activity Reviews
Night Walk: Children's Eternal Forest
Night Walk: Children's Eternal Forest
Monteverde

The kids really enjoyed this night hike. We saw all types of animals: beetle, spiders, frogs, humming bird, pygmy frogs and tarantula! I was cool to hear all of the night sounds. Our guide was very knowledgeable, he studied environmental studies in college.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkeling at the Catalina Islands
Snorkeling at the Catalina Islands
Costa Rica

This was a very cool experience. The staff was very friendly. They pointed out wildlife on the way. We saw turtles mating on the way out to Catalina Island. we didn’t have much luck at our first two spots because of low visibility. On our third spot, we saw tons of fish: huge snapper, starfish, puffer fish, angel fish, parrot fish, a white tipped reef shark and other schools of fish. Andreas was so knowledgeable. He pointed out all types of fish and told us a little about them. They served cantaloupe and pineapple and they had packaged crackers and cookies. They also had water and iced tea. We were pretty hungry when we got back at 12.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Andreas was so great! Very friendly and knowledgeable. Easy to talk to.
Transport
Our Italian drivers was fun! He was relaxed and good spirited. Living pura vida:)
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 28, 2024

Hello Mandy,

Thank you so much for your feedback and photos! I can tell you had a great vacation.

Pura Vida!
Charlotte

Loved our family trip (with adult kids) to Co...
Costa Rica | Jan 6 - Jan 13, 2024

T
Therese B.
Greenacres City, FL | Reviewed on Jan 14, 2024
Loved our family trip (with adult kids) to Costa Rica! KimKim did a great job with our hotel recommendations and organizing our tours for us. As first timers to the country, it was really helpful to have their assistance. The game changer was getting a driver from the airport to Arenal and from their down to our next location, Manuel Antonio. Our driver was Alex and we learned more from him about the country and wildlife than any tour guide could have provided. Stayed at the Hotel... Read more

Loved our family trip (with adult kids) to Costa Rica! KimKim did a great job with our hotel recommendations and organizing our tours for us. As first timers to the country, it was really helpful to have their assistance. The game changer was getting a driver from the airport to Arenal and from their down to our next location, Manuel Antonio. Our driver was Alex and we learned more from him about the country and wildlife than any tour guide could have provided.

Stayed at the Hotel Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs! Loved it! The rooms spacious and the breakfast was wonderful. We had a beautiful view of the volcano from our room. Our little house was in the back of the resort so it was A LOT of walking. The grounds were lovely and enjoyed seeing and hearing wildlife there as well.

First tour was with Sky Tram, Sky Walk and Sky Trek with Sky Arenal Park. the Zip Lining was awesome and we followed it up with a forest hike and tour. I would have done a different forest hike maybe rather than just using the same company. Not that our guide was not knowledgeable, just that I had heard a lot about the 7 bridges hike and thought that was what we were doing. We split up for second day. Two did the Horseback Ride to La Fortuna Waterfall. They were given a lot of free reign with the horses and said the waterfall was stunning. Two did the Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano Guided Rainforest Hike. The highlight on this trek is to see water that is literally two different colors where two rivers merge, but it was raining so water was brown. We do think the guide at Rio Celeste Nature could have let them know before the hike, just so that they could decide it that was still he tour they would choose. My husband and I did the Safari Float on the Penas Blancas River. It was a rainy day, but still enjoyed the trip. Saw some Cayman, Howler Monkeys, a tree porcupine and many birds. Be prepared to paddle, not just float! After the tour, we were surprised with a snack, some moonshine and then followed up with an education about chocolate farming. Enjoyed it!

Second part of our trip was to Manuel Antonio. We stayed at the Mariposa Hotel which had an absolutely stunning view of the ocean. The pool and outdoor restaurant was lovely. Rooms were big, a bit outdated, and many stairs there. The area itself not really walkable as hotel not close to much and road are very narrow to walk along. I still would recommend this hotel though for the view alone. Breakfast was good and had dinner there one night which was delicious.

Went down the beach where we could rent chairs and shade. Was a little surprised by the aggressive approach of venders, people trying to sell you a seat and restaurant promoters. Once we were in our seats though, we were still asked to buy, but things were much quieter.

Did the Catamaran Adventure from Ocean King. Stunning views, fun atmosphere. No reefs, but can still snorkel and look for fish, The boat is BIG. Maybe 200 people. Took a bit to get there because they stop halfway and everyone has to get off bus and then pay and get back on the bus.

KimKim was responsive when we needed to make any changes to our itinery. I did have a few changes to my travel agent there which did make things a little confusing for me at times. Shout out to Wilman who kept up with us on What's Ap and made any changes.

Overall, I would use KimKim again!

Activity Reviews
Sky Tram, Sky Trek & Sky Walk
Sky Tram, Sky Trek & Sky Walk
Arenal/La Fortuna

First tour was with Sky Tram, Sky Walk and Sky Trek with Sky Arenal Park. the Zip Lining was awesome and we followed it up with a forest hike and tour. I would have done a different forest hike maybe rather than just using the same company. Not that our guide was not knowledgeable, just that I had heard a lot about the 7 bridges hike and thought that was what we were doing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River
Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River
Arenal/La Fortuna

My husband and I did the Safari Float on the Penas Blancas River. It was a rainy day, but still enjoyed the trip. Saw some Cayman, Howler Monkeys, a tree porcupine and many birds. Be prepared to paddle, not just float! After the tour, we were surprised with a snack, some moonshine and then followed up with an education about chocolate farming. Enjoyed it!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Night Walk in the Children's Eternal Forest
Night Walk in the Children's Eternal Forest
Monteverde

This was a fun activity for everyone. Not too strenuous, saw lots of spiders, poison dart frogs, cayman, turtles and butterflies. Felt safe while doing it. The only thing that I would have preferred would be for our tour group to be a little smaller.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catamaran Adventure from Manuel Antonio
Catamaran Adventure from Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica

Did the Catamaran Adventure from Ocean King. Stunning views, fun atmosphere. No reefs, but can still snorkel and look for fish, The boat is BIG. Maybe 200 people. Took a bit to get there because they stop halfway and everyone has to get off bus and then pay and get back on the bus.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 28, 2024

Thank you, Therese, for your detailed review. Your feedback is very important to me and the whole team here at Serendipity Adventures in Costa Rica. I have forwarded your kudos to Wilman. <3

Charlotte

Amazing trip. No hiccups at all! Can’t wait t...
Costa Rica | Aug 19 - Aug 24, 2023

Charlotte
Charlotte S.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jan 02, 2024
Amazing trip. No hiccups at all! Can’t wait to use this service again Read more

Amazing trip. No hiccups at all! Can’t wait to use this service again

Hotel Reviews
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna
Authenticity & Character
Amazing view of volcano
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Costa Verde
Manuel Antonio

Amazing hotel with a lot of character. Only complaint is that the bed was so hard.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Lo
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed was very hard. Mattresses could use replacing or toppers.
Activity Reviews
Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Arenal Volcano
Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Arenal Volcano
Arenal/La Fortuna

Really cool experience. It rained most of the hike at the hanging bridges but that was a cool part of the experience in the rain forest! A lot more animals came out with the rain. The waterfall had lots of stairs but it was worth it!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Canopy Zip Lining Tour
Canopy Zip Lining Tour
Costa Rica

I have been zip lining before but this place was much bigger and had better views. Very fun experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catamaran Adventure from Manuel Antonio
Catamaran Adventure from Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica

We could tell at the dock this the boat was going to be the best and most fun. Drinks and food were a bonus! Very comfortable ride with good music and vibes.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Manuel Antonio

Gorgeous beaches with lots of wildlife! It rained on us towards the end which was a little disappointing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 28, 2024

Thank you so much for your glowing review!
We hope to get the opportunity to serve you again in a near future.

Charlotte

fun array of activities and great lodgings
Costa Rica | Dec 9 - Dec 23, 2023

Andrea
Andrea M.
Lanesboro, MN | Reviewed on Dec 24, 2023
My husband and I had a wonderful diverse trip planned out by the team. Highly recommend guides for the nature walks since they are trained to see what we would have missed. The four different areas and stays were all well selected. We enjoyed the crazy river tubing and ziplines in Monteverde especially. Thanks for all the instant replies to my questions.
Andrea
Read more

My husband and I had a wonderful diverse trip planned out by the team. Highly recommend guides for the nature walks since they are trained to see what we would have missed. The four different areas and stays were all well selected. We enjoyed the crazy river tubing and ziplines in Monteverde especially. Thanks for all the instant replies to my questions.
Andrea

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Ficus
Monteverde Costa Rica

Nice big rooms with lots of windows which we loved Easy walking to restaurants etc

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
always were greeted with a friendly smile
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Coast Beachfront Hotel
Tamarindo, Guanacaste Province

great location right on the beach with easy walks to restaurants and bars. Very nice staff and clean place. Our room faced the ocean on 2nd floor and was very roomy with a kitchenette making our stay even better. The continental breakfast was set in front of the door at allotted time.

Authenticity & Character
all amenities are sufficient
Location
awesome beach access
Staff
always friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sueño Río Celeste
Upala

Very friendly and attending hosts. Awesome breakfast and wonderful place to watch birds, sloths etc. right from their deck overlooking the forest.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bungalows are a bit dated, nice decor though and clean, fridge is outside for some reason.
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín
Liberia

Great place to stay for all kinds of activities

Authenticity & Character
nightly music, good service, choices of eateries
Location
near national park and many waterfalls
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Jan 02, 2024

Hello Andrea, and thank you so much for your positive review. I am glad you loved all locations and experiences so much!! Hopefully you'll come back in the future so that we can help you plan a trip to explore other areas of Costa Rica.

Pura Vida,
Charlotte

Book it yourself directly
Costa Rica | Dec 16 - Dec 23, 2023

Sam
Sam J.
Boone, NC | Reviewed on Dec 24, 2023
Our guide showed up and the first thing he told us was that he wasn’t feeling well. The second day he told us he needed to visit a pharmacy. Half of my family caught whatever he had and ended up sick for the 2nd half of the trip. He mostly drive us from point A to B over several days. At the end I asked Serendipity what an appropriate tip was for our guide (and other than infecting us he was very nice so we wanted to tip him). He was with us for four days. They suggested a range of... Read more

Our guide showed up and the first thing he told us was that he wasn’t feeling well. The second day he told us he needed to visit a pharmacy. Half of my family caught whatever he had and ended up sick for the 2nd half of the trip. He mostly drive us from point A to B over several days. At the end I asked Serendipity what an appropriate tip was for our guide (and other than infecting us he was very nice so we wanted to tip him). He was with us for four days. They suggested a range of 20-40-% of the entire seven day trip cost. I would avoid using this service.

Activity Reviews
Arriving and Meeting your Helicopter Crew
Arriving and Meeting your Helicopter Crew
Liberia International Airport (LIR)

They cancelled even though it was clear and sunny.

Quality of Experience
Canyoning Adventure
Canyoning Adventure
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Surfing Lesson
Private Surfing Lesson
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist
Charlotte
Charlotte Törnqvist
Local specialist in Turrialba, Costa Rica | Replied on Jan 02, 2024
Hello Sam and family, I am glad to see you enjoyed your adventures (giving them 5 stars), and that you found the guide nice, but at the same time I am sorry to hear you are not entirely satisfied with our services. As a matter of fact, we were sad the vacation did not start as planned due to the cancelled helicopter transfer upon arrival, that was replaced with an airplane flight. Unfortunately, even though the weather may not look too bad to the bare eye, we have to rely on the expertise... Read more

Hello Sam and family,

I am glad to see you enjoyed your adventures (giving them 5 stars), and that you found the guide nice, but at the same time I am sorry to hear you are not entirely satisfied with our services.

As a matter of fact, we were sad the vacation did not start as planned due to the cancelled helicopter transfer upon arrival, that was replaced with an airplane flight. Unfortunately, even though the weather may not look too bad to the bare eye, we have to rely on the expertise of the helicopter pilots to decide if the conditions are good enough, since they have access to all atmospheric data. We refunded the difference in cost to your credit card.

Regarding the tipping, that is a big misunderstanding and I sincerely apologize you were misinformed in our service chat. I regret any frustration or confusion the erroneous information caused, knowing the typical percentage/ amount of tips for a full trip is much less than the percentage you mention. My coworker Nancy tried to explain that to you over the phone when you were still in country and the question raised, but I now understand it was not cleared satisfactorily. Therefore, we are now in the process of creating a more detailed document covering the topic of service tipping, to share with future clients.

I thank you for taking the time to writing a review. Constructive feedback is invaluable to us, as we always strive to improve our services.

Hopefully you will treasure positive memories rappelling waterfalls and riding the waves of Costa Rica, and decide to return one day, in case we would love to get a second chance to serve you.

Kind Regards,
Charlotte

Costa Rica - Calls and Arnolds
Costa Rica | Nov 27 - Dec 4, 2023

D
Donna C.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2023
Mariano was Amazing!!! Read more

Mariano was Amazing!!!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
Fortuna
Authenticity & Character
Location
Everything was perfect here!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Monteverde Costa Rica
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Costa Verde
Manuel Antonio
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Charlotte Törnqvist