Costa Rican Adventures
Costa Rica | Mar 8 - Mar 17, 2024

N
Nicole L.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Mar 24, 2024

The local specialist at Serendipity Tours made our first trip to Costa Rica so memorable.
Not having to worry about all the planning details took such a load off my mind as I was busy working up until the minute we got on the plane!
They created an itinerary that was well balanced with adventurous activities, learning and downtime.
We were able to see different areas of the country without feeling like we were running ourselves ragged.
The guides and our drivers were so friendly, knowledgeable and kind.
Our main driver, Alex, was awesome and made us feel so comfortable.
River rafting on the Balsa river was the highlight.
There were no issues with reservations or logistics.
Wilman helped arrange last minute changes in our activities and was very attentive, checking in to make sure our trip was going smoothly.
Thanks for a wonderful trip.

Hotel Reviews
Cloud Forest Lodge
Monteverde

The room was so spacious, modern and clean. We overlooked the parking and the registration so that wasn't ideal, but the overall property was so lovely, it didn't matter. The lodge is tucked up in the mountains and has several paths to hike. The restaurant has beautiful views and delicious food. Saw a lot of birds and some other wildlife. Very relaxing stay in the cloud forest.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Falls at Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio

Food and service were great. We did not have a very nice room though. There was no privacy as the room was right above the restaurant. The door was a big sliding glass door and anyone walking by can see into the room. So we had to keep the curtains closed. There was only a tiny window so there was minimal light with the curtains closed. The bathroom could use an update. There are other more private rooms that would have been much nicer.

Hotel Magic Mountain
Fortuna

Great views of Arenal volcano. The pool area is nice. Easy walk to some tasty restaurants. Breakfast buffet was nice. The room was clean.

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

The walk was just ok. Nice views and learned a bit about the rain forest. The real highlight is the zip lining of course.

Private Guided Nature Walk at Ecological Park & Butterfly Garden Danaus
Private Guided Nature Walk at Ecological Park & Butterfly Garden Danaus
Arenal/La Fortuna

Not much to see here. Could have done without this.

Ecotermales Hotsprings
Ecotermales Hotsprings
Costa Rica
Whitewater Rafting on the Balsa River
Whitewater Rafting on the Balsa River
Arenal/La Fortuna

So much fun and the guides are terrific. Great for kids. The rapids are fun but not super scary. The class 2 section is gorgeous.

Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Costa Rica

Fun learning about coffee and chocolate. Good for kids. We did the night walk as well and it was fun searching for wildlife.

Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Costa Rica

You definitely need a guide to see the animals. Don't expect a relaxing time though until you get to the beach. We were running from one place to the next trying to spot the birds and other wildlife. Our guide was very good at making opportunities for use to see animals, but there are so many guides and groups it feels like a competition. We saw a mother and baby sloth very close up which was awesome. The beach is lovely. Despite the crowds, this is definitely a must see place.

Local Flavors Cooking Class
Local Flavors Cooking Class
Manuel Antonio

This was really fun. Our guide, Karla, from Toucanes tours was so funny and friendly! The food we helped cook was delicious and I am inspired to try making the dish at home. My son enjoyed cooking as well. It was just my son and I so we got all the attention.

Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Mar 25, 2024
Thank you for your kind words, Nicole! We're thrilled to hear that your trip to Costa Rica with Serendipity Tours was so memorable and stress-free. It's fantastic that you were able to enjoy a well-balanced itinerary with exciting activities, learning experiences, and relaxation time. We're glad our guides and drivers, especially Alex, made your journey comfortable and enjoyable. River rafting on the Balsa river sounds like an incredible highlight! We appreciate your feedback and hope... Read more

Thank you for your kind words, Nicole!

We're thrilled to hear that your trip to Costa Rica with Serendipity Tours was so memorable and stress-free.

It's fantastic that you were able to enjoy a well-balanced itinerary with exciting activities, learning experiences, and relaxation time. We're glad our guides and drivers, especially Alex, made your journey comfortable and enjoyable. River rafting on the Balsa river sounds like an incredible highlight!

We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another wonderful adventure in the future.

Pura Vida!
Bryan Leon,
Serendipity Adventures, Costa Rica🌋