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Holden Ketchum

I have lived in Costa Rica for eight years and made it my home. My role is to help travelers connect to the activities and experiences that will bring them the most joy and provide lasting memories. Costa Rica is a unique travel destination and I hope that my clients will get to know its many qualities by making up-close and personal connections through the activities in their personalized trip plans.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in Costa Rican highlights. Additionally, I like to recommend unique places that are less frequented but offer peace and quiet for those looking to leave the crowd behind. I love sharing places where travelers can experience the biodiversity of Costa Rica, relax in peaceful places, and enjoy delicious food. Ask me where the best cheesecake can be found!"

How did you get involved in travel?

"I have been traveling my entire life. I have lived in multiple states in the USA (California, Texas, Florida, Alaska, Arizona, and Washington State) as well as other countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and Costa Rica. I completed my undergraduate degree in Paris. Being a student of history and cultural studies allowed me the opportunity to travel extensively across Europe: everything from modern museums and castles to ancient ruins and cave painting sites.
I began my new life in Costa Rica nine years ago, and I have been traveling and exploring here ever since. I have worked in travel marketing as a way to connect people to the adventures and experiences that are available to them here in Costa Rica. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"My favorite place in Costa Rica is San Gerardo de Dota, which is a hidden cloud forest not far from Cartago. On a trip last year, as we were hiking through the forest, we saw a pair of quetzals in an aguacatillo tree. We sat quietly at the side of the trail and watched them eat their fill. Eventually, the male flew from tree to tree calling to the female. The usual light mist was falling, but the sun still sent sparkling rays through the canopy. The sights and sounds were incredible, and we were all alone in the forest with them. As an avid birdwatcher, this was unforgettable for me."

Top itineraries and travel advice

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...

Recent trip reviews for Holden

Best. Time. Ever.
Costa Rica | Jun 26 - Jul 3, 2025

Stephanie
Stephanie L.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 10, 2025
We had such a fantastic time from start to finish! We had never used a service before but when our travel dates changed and we had to start from scratch because there were no vacancies to be had for a party of nine, kimkim and Holden came in clutch. In only 24 hours he had an even better plan than our initial one!!! We laugh about how grateful we are that our first plans fell apart. The biggest bonus to using kimkim and that Holden addressed thoughtfully and thoroughly was logistics. We... Read more

We had such a fantastic time from start to finish! We had never used a service before but when our travel dates changed and we had to start from scratch because there were no vacancies to be had for a party of nine, kimkim and Holden came in clutch. In only 24 hours he had an even better plan than our initial one!!! We laugh about how grateful we are that our first plans fell apart.

The biggest bonus to using kimkim and that Holden addressed thoughtfully and thoroughly was logistics. We had an idea of all the things we wanted to do but were overwhelmed with trying to figure out the best areas in which to stay, how long to plan to get where, how many daily activities to schedule and how to do it efficiently. In the end, the pace was perfect and we loved every single excursion provided through Serendipity Adventures-Mariano, Alex, Julio, Ricardo, Antonio, Jeffery and Jarrell were kind and capable guides. We even made a last minute change because we wanted to watch the USA vs. Costa Rica game with some locals. Kimkim (Wilman) was happily accommodating.

Turns out that both the places we stayed-which were not on our radar-were perfect for us. Arenal Monoa & Hot Springs Resort was a treat given the amount of rain we had while visiting. The staff was courteous and hard-working; we hardly wanted to leave to see the town just minutes away. The daily view of what we started to call "our" volcano was breathtaking in all its versions. At Margaritaville in Playa Flamingo, the all-inclusive feature and reasonable size of the facility made things relaxing with teenagers. They could roam independently and meet their own needs when they were tired of being forced into games of corn hole and pool volleyball. The beach was the visual highlight and provided plenty of
boogie boarding fun!

So much more that could be said but all my accolades probably have people thinking this is a fake review. It's not. To keep it real, the roads and navigating are atrocious. If you or anyone in your party has trouble with car sickness be forewarned. Worth it in the end though! Pura vida! We loved Costa Rica.

Thank you kimkim team and Holden for knowing what would make for wonderful memories:)

Hotel Reviews
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Guanacaste

We loved that Margaritaville wasn't a mega resort where you have to wait for elevators to arrive and we could physically check on our teenagers with ease. The staff, especially upon check-in and check-out, were efficient, helpful and welcoming. The placement on the beach makes for a beautiful setting.

Authenticity & Character
It certainly has a theme but it is not over the top.
Location
We loved that it was a relatively short distance from the airport and so scenic once you arrive.
Staff
The staff at the pool bar quickly became friendly faces we enjoyed seeing.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The rooms themselves were quite nice and housekeeping kept it spotless.
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna

The resort and grounds were lovely and the staff was hard-working and courteous. The view of the volcano and abundance of wildlife right on the property was amazing.

Authenticity & Character
The view while dining from the main restaurant is fabulous!
Location
The 3 hour drive from the airport is a bit of a grind but once you are there, it's lovely. I wish that excursions could be a more convenient distance away. The majority of ours were close to 2 hours away.
Staff
Everyone was kind, welcoming, and accommodating.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The grounds were well cared for and the rooms were serviced with attention.
Activity Reviews
Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui River (Class III-IV)
Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui River (Class III-IV)
Costa Rica

We had a blast and felt secure the entire time being that we were a small tour of just two boats and a safety kayaker all for us! The guys were super fun and easy to be around. Do it!

Quality of Experience
Serendipity was fantastic. We loved the guys including the cook who made us a delicious meal! Our teens were so happy!!!
Food
That was a little feast after our time on the river. Who knew you could make that happen with a hot plate and a cooler?!?! Our kids devoured the chicken tacos, guacamole, and pineapple! Jeffery was hard-working and kind. We really appreciated him.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Alex was our driver and his ability to spot wildlife on the drive was mindblowing! He is FULL of information while being humorous. We appreciated that he took a stop for us to use a nicer bathroom and get a snack on the way there.
Transport
Alex was prompt and detail-oriented. He was looking out for our best interest from start to finish.
Private Río Celeste & Tenorio Volcano National Park Guided Hike
Private Río Celeste & Tenorio Volcano National Park Guided Hike
Arenal/La Fortuna

Mariano was a blast! We learned so may fun facts from him. His sense of humor eased the long ride there and back. The park was full of surprises including white-faced monkeys, an eyelash viper, and various other creatures. The falls were so pretty and the fact that a member of our party is named Celeste made it more special.

Quality of Experience
Food
We liked that it was a typical kind of Costa Rican lunch. We seemed to hit the buffet late so there were limited options.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mariano was a delight!
Transport
Dios mio! We had all kinds of issues with roads but our driver hung in there with a good attitude.
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum

Amazing Costa Rica Family Adventure
Costa Rica | Jun 26 - Jul 3, 2025

K
Kerry S.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 10, 2025
We had the most amazing trip to Costa Rica. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Many of our excursions were booked through Serendipty Adventures and they were fantastic.
Full day hike with Mariano was so fun. Beautiful sights amd lots of animals along the way. Monkeys, Sloth, Snakes... and eating termites!
The white water rafting was my favorite. It was quite a ride. The trip was about 1.5 hours of rapids and some down time too. We got out twice and swam a little...
Read more

We had the most amazing trip to Costa Rica. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Many of our excursions were booked through Serendipty Adventures and they were fantastic.
Full day hike with Mariano was so fun. Beautiful sights amd lots of animals along the way. Monkeys, Sloth, Snakes... and eating termites!
The white water rafting was my favorite. It was quite a ride. The trip was about 1.5 hours of rapids and some down time too. We got out twice and swam a little and jumped into the river. It was great.
The amenitites at Hotel Arenal were lovely and the rooms were nice too. I loved coming back to the hotel and relaxing in one of the many hot spring pools. The food and drink were great too.
The 2nd half of the trip was relaxing at Flamingo Beach. The Margaritaville Hotel was the perfect setting. We enjoyed the pool and beach equally. The ocean had great waves for boogie boards and the pool was perfect for lots of volleyball and relaxation. We had a great meal at all of the restaurants too.
We had a private sunset crusie through Serendipity Adventures and Gerald and Alex took great care of us on our 50 ft sailboat.
This really was an unforgettable trip and were so happy we went the Kim Kim route! Thanks again for the adventure!

Hotel Reviews
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Guanacaste

We loved the proximity to the beach and the location was beautiful. The staff was friendly. We spent equal time between the beach and the pool. We played volleyball and used boogie boards in the ocean. It was a lot of FUN!

Authenticity & Character
Fun atmosphere
Location
Right on the beach!
Staff
Friendly and efficient
Cleanliness & Comfort
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna

Great food choices. My kids loved the pizza. Happy hour specials were great. The daily breakfast choices were really good and it was a nice way to start the day. The hotel property is beautiful and just as you would picture staying near the tropical rainforest!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right at the base of Arenal
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum

Super easy, very responsive
Costa Rica | Jun 16 - Jun 23, 2025

Julie
Julie B.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
The planning process was super easy, and all of our plans were executed perfectly. The team was extremely responsive and great to work with. Read more

The planning process was super easy, and all of our plans were executed perfectly. The team was extremely responsive and great to work with.

Hotel Reviews
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna

Beautiful secluded setting.

Authenticity & Character
Secluded feel
Location
Close to activities
Staff
Friendly and sttentive
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room felt basic, not luxurious
Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
Tamarindo

Beautiful beach location

Authenticity & Character
The separation between the two sides of the resort is odd and feels very disconnected
Location
Right on the beach
Staff
Slow service but everyone is friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Housekeeping was great. Overall the resort needs some upgrades, cosmetic repairs
Activity Reviews
Big Arenal Mundo Aventura Zipline
Big Arenal Mundo Aventura Zipline
Arenal/La Fortuna

Awesome adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui River (Class III-IV)
Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui River (Class III-IV)
Costa Rica

Highlight of our trip!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Full-Day Cruise
Private Full-Day Cruise
Costa Rica

Great day on the water. Plenty of time on the boat and in the water. The staff was attentive and the food was great!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 30, 2025

Thank you Julie for your comments on your trip plan. I'm glad you and your family had some great experiences in Costa Rica, especially the private sailing charter. That's one of my favorites!

We had the trip of a lifetime in Costa Rica! ...
Costa Rica | May 22 - May 31, 2025

Molly
Molly R.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025

We had the trip of a lifetime in Costa Rica! I love to see new places but I think we will return to Costa Rica again because there was so much to do and see. Holden was amazing at planning the trip for us and listened to my wants and put together the perfect trip. Wilman with Serendipity Adventures was so helpful while we were there! Figuring out adjustments to the plans that I would throw at him. They were both so knowledgeable and helpful!

Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 30, 2025

Thank you Molly for recognizing the efforts of my coworkers. I'm glad you had a great family experience in Costa Rica. We look forward to your next visit!

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

Pura Vida‼️
Costa Rica | Jun 2 - Jun 11, 2025

Cindy
Cindy R.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 18, 2025
The roads from Liberia International Airport to Arenal/La Fortuna reminded me of Guatemala & Haiti but the Tabacón thermal resort property was worth the drive! We all loved the hot relaxing water falls & food.
Andy our private guide was excellent on the
Arenal Volcano Park tour & hike. He was extremely knowledgeable & kept us entertained.
Enjoyed Coffee, Chocolate and Sugar Cane Farm Tour & we saw a eyelash palm pit viper in tree. Combination of sampling coffee & chocolate while... Read more

The roads from Liberia International Airport to Arenal/La Fortuna reminded me of Guatemala & Haiti but the Tabacón thermal resort property was worth the drive! We all loved the hot relaxing water falls & food.
Andy our private guide was excellent on the
Arenal Volcano Park tour & hike. He was extremely knowledgeable & kept us entertained.

Enjoyed Coffee, Chocolate and Sugar Cane Farm Tour & we saw a eyelash palm pit viper in tree. Combination of sampling coffee & chocolate while learning from another intelligent guide was heaven!

Private Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River with JoeDan

Boat driver Justin & driver Francisco
Private Lake Crossing from Arenal/La Fortuna to Monteverde & Cloud Forest Lodge
Andy Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Hike & Night Walk at Children's Eternal Forest was spooky
Treetopia: Tram, Zip Lines & Hanging Bridges

San Lucas Treetop Dining was an unforgettable experience! 5 stars!!!

The W Costa Rica Reserva Conchal is a gorgeous resort with ALL the amenities, excellent staff, relaxing beach

Tropical Sunset Sailing Adventure beautiful but needs safety instructions regarding location of life preserver.

Gulf of Papagayo is beautiful and relaxing. The staff very professional and welcoming.

Thankfully the roads back to LIR were much better! Thanks KIMKIM!

Hotel Reviews
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Fortuna

Wow! 5 stars!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cloud Forest Lodge
Monteverde

Super nice & attentive staff, very eco friendly, no TV, hiking on property was marginal, restaurant excellent!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Only $8 taxi to town center & local tours were great!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal
Guanacaste

Ocean View room spectacular! Professional, genuinely take good care of you!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Spectacular!
Staff
The BEST!
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 18, 2025

Thank you Cindy for the detailed review. It sounds like you had a great time. How exciting to see an eyelash viper at the coffee tour!

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

Costa Rica family trip
Costa Rica | Jun 2 - Jun 11, 2025

M
Mary W.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jun 16, 2025
Holden and the Serendipity Adventures team were great. Everything we asked for in the trip was included. Our trip included many transports of various kinds and we were amazed that it was so well coordinated.
We very much enjoyed the Arenal Moana and the Koora Hotel in Monteverde. The river rafting trip in La Fortuna was the favorite activity of all three generations in our group.
Thanks Holden and Serendipity!
Read more

Holden and the Serendipity Adventures team were great. Everything we asked for in the trip was included. Our trip included many transports of various kinds and we were amazed that it was so well coordinated.
We very much enjoyed the Arenal Moana and the Koora Hotel in Monteverde. The river rafting trip in La Fortuna was the favorite activity of all three generations in our group.
Thanks Holden and Serendipity!

Hotel Reviews
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna

Beautiful grounds, great pool with swim up bar. Room a little dated but large and comfortable. Nice and helpful staff.

Koora Hotel
Monteverde

This was my favorite hotel of trip. Wonderful to sit on the balcony with a cup of French press coffee in the morning and listen to the birds. Monkeys came to visit at breakfast. Food was excellent. Staff some of the best I have experienced.

Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas
Guanacaste

Food was not great and expensive. Lots of mosquitoes in our back yard. Staff ok but not as helpful as other places. Enjoyed sunset cocktail on beach.

Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 16, 2025

Hi Mary, I'm glad to hear that your trip to Costa Rica was a success for your multi-generational family trip! Hopefully the whitewater rafting trip gave you great memories and photos to remember Costa Rica!

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

Magical First Trip to Costa Rica! My husban...
Costa Rica | Jun 2 - Jun 12, 2025

Gabriela
Gabriela G.
Houston, TX | Reviewed on Jun 13, 2025
Magical First Trip to Costa Rica! My husband and I just returned from our first trip to Costa Rica and it was truly unforgettable! We visited La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio, and every stop was filled with beauty, adventure, and incredible experiences. In La Fortuna, we stayed at Amor Arenal, a stunning jungle hotel with private jacuzzis and breathtaking volcano views—pure luxury in nature. We loved our adventures there, including rafting, horseback riding, and spotting... Read more

Magical First Trip to Costa Rica!

My husband and I just returned from our first trip to Costa Rica and it was truly unforgettable! We visited La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio, and every stop was filled with beauty, adventure, and incredible experiences.

In La Fortuna, we stayed at Amor Arenal, a stunning jungle hotel with private jacuzzis and breathtaking volcano views—pure luxury in nature. We loved our adventures there, including rafting, horseback riding, and spotting sloths in the wild.

Next, we headed to Monteverde, where we enjoyed a scenic road trip and a private tour of the Cloud Forest with Andy, whose passion for nature made the experience so memorable. Our night tour was equally exciting—we even saw tarantulas!

We ended our journey in Manuel Antonio at Arenas Del Mar, a beautiful beachfront resort with amazing food, service, and wildlife (hello hermit crabs!). We explored the national park and relaxed on the beach, soaking in every moment.

A heartfelt thank you to Holden and his team at Serendipity Tours, and to Kimkim.com for helping us plan such a well-organized, enriching, and fun trip. We’re so grateful and already dreaming of going back!

Pura Vida!

Hotel Review
Amor Arenal
La Fortuna, San Carlos

Our room here was one of my favorites I have ever stayed in the world. The spacious and luxurious room, the giant shower with amazing nature views and the private hot jacuzzi in the terrace! Also I appreciated the giant TV with Netflix included and room service! Thank you!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 13, 2025

Hello Gabriela
Me alegro de que todo fuera tan bien en tu primer viaje a Costa Rica y de que ya estés soñando con volver. Estoy de acuerdo que Amor Arenal un hotel y experiencia inolvidable. Estaremos encantados de ayudarle a planificar su segundo viaje a Costa Rica muy pronto!

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

We had a great honeymoon in Costa Rica. Holde...
Costa Rica | May 26 - Jun 1, 2025

C
Caleb B.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 09, 2025
We had a great honeymoon in Costa Rica. Holden did a great job accommodating our requests and planning a trip that allowed us to see multiple locations during the week. Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin was a beautiful resort with plenty of activities, amazing food, and very friendly staff. Our snorkeling excursion with Yellowfin tours was great. We had a small boat to ourselves and got to see amazing marine life at multiple locations. Our guide was very knowledgeable and helpful and made it a great... Read more

We had a great honeymoon in Costa Rica. Holden did a great job accommodating our requests and planning a trip that allowed us to see multiple locations during the week. Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin was a beautiful resort with plenty of activities, amazing food, and very friendly staff. Our snorkeling excursion with Yellowfin tours was great. We had a small boat to ourselves and got to see amazing marine life at multiple locations. Our guide was very knowledgeable and helpful and made it a great experience. Overall an amazing trip that was very well planned out. Serendipity Adventures was a pleasure to work with and were happy to work with us and accommodate any questions/concerns we had.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín
Liberia

It was a very nice resort up in the mountains of Costa Rica. The food at the restaurants there was amazing. All of the staff were very friendly and helpful. There are plenty of activities to do at the resort. We would definitely come back again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bahia del Sol Hotel
Guanacaste

The hotel was very nice. Rooms were clean, new and modern. The food was good, but there is only one restaurant for lunch, and only two for dinner (one is a tapas bar with mostly just snacks and drinks). It is a nice smaller hotel. It was not busy when we were there, but if it was busy, the pool and lounge area could definitely begin to feel crowded quickly. It had amazing views of the sunset over the pacific.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Amazing sunset views
Staff
Rolando was a great waiter, very friendly, remembered allergies we had over the course of the week.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guanacaste Snorkel Adventure
Guanacaste Snorkel Adventure
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Introduction to Rincón de la Vieja
Introduction to Rincón de la Vieja
Rincón de la Vieja
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
One Day Nature Pass and Hot Springs at Hacienda Guachipelín
One Day Nature Pass and Hot Springs at Hacienda Guachipelín
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Zip & Swing Through the Canyon
Zip & Swing Through the Canyon
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 10, 2025

Thank you for the review Caleb, I'm glad to hear that you had a memorable honeymoon with amazing Costa Rican adventures. I hope you will talk about us for years to come.

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

Magical Time in Costa Rica
Costa Rica | May 24 - May 31, 2025

Michelle
Michelle R.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jun 09, 2025
This was my first time to use a travel agency as I usually enjoy putting together a trip and think that I can get the best deal. This was a trip for me, my husband and our 19-year-old daughter. I was so impressed with the details of the questions of what we were looking for with our vacation and even more impressed with how quickly Holden responded and put together a fabulous itinerary. It was such a blessing to have all the reservations and details put together and all questions I asked... Read more

This was my first time to use a travel agency as I usually enjoy putting together a trip and think that I can get the best deal. This was a trip for me, my husband and our 19-year-old daughter. I was so impressed with the details of the questions of what we were looking for with our vacation and even more impressed with how quickly Holden responded and put together a fabulous itinerary. It was such a blessing to have all the reservations and details put together and all questions I asked Holden were quickly answered. I think that I am now sold on using a travel agency and Kimkim is my number 1 choice!

Activity Reviews
Private Organic Cooking Class
Private Organic Cooking Class
Arenal/La Fortuna

I would say this event on our Costa Rica trip stood out as one of the best adventures. We loved meeting with Huber and his family. The extent of knowledge Huber had of the vegetation, the wildlife and the growing patterns of the produce was impressive. We loved going through and tasting the different leaves and bark and guessing what each one was. It was also really fun to actually pick the produce that we would be using later for the cooking portion of the class. The cooking process was truly authentic being in Huber's family kitchen. It was such an amazing experience! The three of us (me, my husband and our 19yo daughter) prepped the food and I helped Huber's mom (Haidy?) with cooking the arroz con pollo and while husband and daughter put together the salad with fresh pickings from the yard. We also learned how to make fresh tortillas (I've already bought the ingredients back here at home!) and made those straight on the cooktop. I got to learn to make my favorite Central American side of fried Plantains and am so excited with that knowledge. The family was more than generous with sharing their knowledge, time and space with us. These kind of authentic experiences are what I enjoy best about visiting other cultures. Highly recommended!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Tamarindo Bay
Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Tamarindo Bay
Tamarindo

I've been snorkeling before, but this was such a great experience. Jeffery was our guide and Nico, el jefe, picked us up and helped along the way. We felt accomplished taking the kayaks to the island. Then Jeffery spent the time walking us along the island teaching us about the wildlife. I find Costa Ricans just love their planet and everything that provides for them! We snorkeled in shallow water and while the sea life wasn't as bright or colorful as some places, I've been, it was still magnificent to see. When we got back we enjoyed a treat of fresh pineapple and mamon verde. I loved being introduced to a new food while on a snorkeling adventure! Jefferey and Nico were fabulous guides and we hope to run into them again on our next visit to Costa Rica!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Arenal Hanging Bridges Walk
Private Arenal Hanging Bridges Walk
Arenal/La Fortuna

We very much enjoyed our private excursion with Mariano! We live in Arizona and love to hike and were enthralled with the chance to hike in a very different atmosphere with very different plants and critters. My head was on swivel as I was searching high in the trees for monkeys and sloths and low on the ground for frogs and snakes. Our group consisted of me, my husband and our 19yo daughter. The trails were great to follow and the end of May was a great time because there weren't too many others on the path. Now I'm scared of walking on things where I can see the ground, but the hanging bridges were fine as long as I didn't look down! What a great experience! Now our guide, Mariano, was so very knowledgeable and just as excited as us with each find. If there is a way to ask for a guide on this adventure, Mariano is your guy!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 10, 2025

Thank you Michelle for taking the time to write a thoughtful review. I'm so glad that you enjoyed the activities that we chose for you. This is one of the best cooking classes and it sounds like you made great memories with authentic Costa Rican experiences. I'm sure the family was happy to spend time with you in the kitchen!

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

KimKim did an amazing job of setting up a per...
Costa Rica | May 30 - Jun 5, 2025

K
Karin s.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 07, 2025

KimKim did an amazing job of setting up a perfect vacation for my daughter and I. Everything went as planned, just as they promised. The hotels they picked were exquisite. The guides and transportation were not only timely, but extremely informative and courteous. The contact person was readily available and quick to respond. I will definitely use KimKim for all future travel!!

Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 09, 2025

Hi Karin
I'm glad to hear that your trip ran smoothly and that you and your daughter had a great adventure 🌟🦋😎

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures