8 Fun days in Costa Rica
Costa Rica
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Jan 15 - Jan 24, 2026
Getting though Immigration/Customs was lengthy, and traffic made the trip from landing to our 1st lodging a 6 hour ordeal.
Volcano Lodge: Room was adequate, but the grounds were amazing - gardens and thermal pools.
Cloud Forest Lodge: Room was large and comfortable. Restaurant and staff were great
Hotel La Mariposa: Room was large and comfortable, great view of the ocean from the balcony. Dinner menu was lacking. Easy short walk to La Milagro for excellent dinners.
All 3 had great breakfasts
Both Kimkim and Serendipity kept us informed as we traveled. All transfers and pick-ups for activities were on-time.
Mariano led a nice hike through Arenal 1968, pointing out interesting features (although the clouds never let us see the volcano). We were never rushed, and enjoyed the waterfall. He was a trouper after his very long day getting us from the airport.
Moisses (Moi) was an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide on the river float. He took the effort to separate us from the crowds of other rafts on the river - it was like we had the place to ourselves. Saw monkeys and a crocodile.
The Coffee and Chocolate (and sugar cane) Tour was interesting and tasty.
The Night Walk was a disappointment. Martin spoke very softly, especially for a group of 8-10 people. We never saw anything larger than a finger. Likewise, the Santa Elena hike never produced anything other than insects and plants. At least we could see the forest around us, unlike the Night Walk. I would suggest 1 or the other; not both - too similar.
Andres was an amazing guide at Manual Antonio. Seems like he knows every guide there and kept getting (and giving) tips on what to see and where. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Birds, monkeys and sloths
The Catamaran Tour was fun, and we got to see dolphins and whales. Unfortunately, recent rains meant limited visibility and not good snorkeling conditions. Good meal and very friendly crew.
RideCR had the most comfortable vans. We were pleasantly amazed at how courteous the drivers are in CR, especially given the narrow roads.
Hotel Reviews
Adequate, small room. Beautiful grounds. Thermal pools were very enjoyable. Great breakfasts and enough choices of local dinner options.
Nice large corner room with balcony and views on 2 sides. Nice views to the ocean. Easy to get to other restaurants and shops by a short walk or the local bus ($1 per passenger, every 15-20 minutes). Very good breakfast. Did not seem like dinner choices were authentic/local.
Pleasant and welcoming staff. Large room. Emphasis on sustainability. Nice dining room. Good menu with varied, authentic options.
Activity Reviews
We had a great guide and saw lots of wildlife.
Saw whales and dolphins. Surprisingly good meal.
