Nine days in Costa Rica 1/26
Costa Rica
|
Jan 20 - Jan 30, 2026
We appreciated the careful planning and arrangements for our trip to Costa Rica in January 2026. Arriving in Liberia - Guanacaste airport late because of flight delays, we found our driver after leaving the chaos of the airport and inefficient customs. Our driver brought us to Lomas Volcuna Hotel over twisty, bumpy roads late in the evening. Of all the arrangements, the only thing I would change was perhaps staying closer to the airport and taking the arduous trip the next morning. The hotel in Arenal surpassed all expectations. It was quiet, luxurious, and clean with the individual cottages. The landscaping lifted the senses and there was a trail in the woods for enjoyment. The North Fields chocolate and coffee experience informed us of all the complexity of these crops; the guide used excellent teaching methods to keep us engaged. The next day, our boat ride on the river found more wild life than any other adventure of the week. The guides spotted monkeys, sloths, caiman, iguana and several bird species. All week the guides had telescopes to see the animals and they outfitted our phone cameras for pictures. Our last day, we hiked up the side of Arenal; the climb was aduous for some of our party but the guide supported the members who needed help. The trip to Manuel Antonio was another long bumpy trip but the Mariposa Hotel destination was worth the drive. Great views, wonderful restaurant, infinity pool and capochin monkeys everywhere. Manuel Antonio park did not handle the crowds well, wildlife was distant, but the coast was beautiful. Back up the mountain to the cloud forest and Monteverde. The hotel, Fonda Vela, had a great pool, the best cooking of the trip and beautiful natural wood rooms. We traveled the hanging bridges which were very manageable even for our members who had difficulty hiking. Our night hike in the forest revealed the creature that come out after dark. Guides showed us toucans, other birds, a viper, and a frog. Seeing a frog made me realize that all the ecology and conservation in Costa Rica has at least saved this one little reptile. We just don't see frogs in the US like I did as a child. Kenny our driver brought us back down the mountain to Tamarindo bay. The resort had a gorgeous ocean front that we walks every morning at dawn to our extreme delight. The town and vendors could be overwhelming at times, but the evening shows with traveling Mariachi bands, jugglers and circus acts were entertaining. Photos of the week will be dear to us; a video of stills and video clips helps to recall the good times!
Hotel Reviews
Lomas del Volcán was my favorite hotel during our trip. The accommodation consisted of charming little cabins with a back porch perfect for morning coffee and offered stunning views of the volcano. The beautiful gardens added to the serene environment. Overall, it was an absolutely fantastic location that I'm considering visiting again.
The Fonda Vela Hotel in Monteverde had the best food of all the hotels we stayed at, thanks to its wonderful chef. The accommodation also featured a beautiful pool, which was a little too warm, but still made for a pleasant stay.
Activity Reviews
The Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Boat Safari was a surprising highlight of our trip. We enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and saw an impressive amount of wildlife during the tour. It was a wonderful way to experience Costa Rica's nature.
The Guided Hanging Bridges Walk in the Cloud Forest at Monteverde was absolutely stunning. Walking over the trees was an unforgettable experience, offering beautiful views and a unique way to explore the forest.
The Night Excursion at the Wildlife Refuge in Monteverde provided a thrilling adventure as we explored the forest at night. We saw a variety of fascinating wildlife, making it a memorable part of our trip.
The Coffee, Chocolate & Sugar Cane Farm Experience provided the best instruction and learning during our trip. It was fascinating to learn about the production processes and added a depth of cultural understanding.
The Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike was my least favorite activity due to the large crowds. We did see some wildlife, but the experience was hindered by the inability to comfortably view the animals, such as sloths being barely visible.
