Welcome to my two week travel itinerary through the beautiful country of Costa Rica, which has become a graduation present to myself. I will officially be done with my undergraduate degree in August of 2010. I am majoring in Global Studies at the University of Washington—Bothell, and have a passion for travel. I have currently traveled through the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as six European countries (Italy, England, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, and Czech Republic). In 2007I spent a quarter abroad living and studying in Florence, Italy. Since then I have developed a love for seeing the world and am excited to explore a country in Central America next!
Through my studies and travels, I have become convinced that our actions need, as far as is possible, to be compatible with fostering long-term sustainability, and conserving the diversity of this Earth. For this reason, my planning has been a bit unique. I have challenged myself to plan every aspect of the two weeks in Costa Rica around ecotourism. I have now spent considerable time and energy researching how to make my entire trip eco-friendly and fun -- from everywhere I stay, where I eat, how I get around, and which activities I choose. I not only thought this was an important goal to have, but I also thought that it would be a fun and new way to travel. Usually when I go on vacation I am only thinking about myself and how my experience will be, and have not thought about the impacts of my choices on the places I visit. But recently I became interested in ecotourism and the positive effects we can have on the world if we start thinking in these terms. I firmly believe it is important to travel, and now also believe it is important to travel and be conscious of the decision you make while abroad. My hope is that I will be able to influence other people to plan their trips whether domestic or international around ecotourism so we can begin preserving our Earth not only for ourselves, but for future generation to follow.
Ecotourism is a responsible and sustainable way to travel that seeks to preserve the area visited for future generations to enjoy. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, over 880 million people traveled internationally in 2009. With so many people crossing borders, it is important to remember the impact that we have not only on the environment, but also on the cultures and habitats of the places we visit. By participating in ecotourism, we are reducing negative impacts and promoting positive ones as we explore and discover other places around the world. If we are successful in planning an eco-friendly trip, we not only benefit from our travels, but also help others around us.
There are numerous ways to measure ecotourism, but not all of them are reliable. Unfortunately there is a large amount of “green washing” in the marketing of ecotourism. The sustainable dictionary defines Green washing as: the act of misleading consumers regarding the environmental practices of a company or the environmental benefits of a product or service. In fact, there are seven sins of green washing which are identified as; the sin of hidden trade-off, the sin of no proof, the sin of vagueness, the sin of worshiping false labels, the sin of irrelevance, the sin of lesser of two evils, and lastly, the sin of fibbing. Basically companies try and find ways to be sneaky and spin their products and policies as environmentally friendly, even though they aren’t. Green washing happens more often than we would like in the industry, and thankfully certification programs help consumers decipher and detect which companies are truly eco-friendly, and which companies are making false claims.
To make sure the places I will stay and the ways I will travel are truly sustainable, I have researched many different certification processes within Costa Rica and the global tourism industry. Certification is a process where everyone involved can ensure that the activity and product a business is selling meets particular standards. Martha Honey and Abigail Rome co-authors of “Protecting Paradise: Certification Programs for Sustainable Tourism and Ecotourism” define certification as “a voluntary procedure that assesses, audits and gives written assurance that a facility, product, process or service meets specific standards. It awards a marketable logo to those that meet or exceed baseline standards.”
While certification processes for ecotourism can have a positive impact, they don’t necessarily include sociocultural issues, but may instead only focus on environmental and economic issues. However, my interest is to promote both environmental and social sustainability, thus I limited my selections for my trip to certification processes that include sociocultural and environmental criteria. For example, the CST rating includes how many local employees each business has as one of their ratings. This not only helps the local economy, but also the local people who live within the area to survive and flourish. As we can see there are many upsides to certification. While it is not a means to an end, certification is definitely an integral tool used to motivate business and others around them to improve their environmental, social, and economic performance, while also receiving the reward for doing so. There are many reasons why certification is important, which include; the benefits for the certified businesses, the benefits for the consumers, the benefits for the governments, and lastly the benefits for the environment and local communities. It is also important to keep in mind that all certification programs are voluntary, and no business is required to get certified.
Through my research I identified three certification processes as suited to my values. The first of these is the Certification of Sustainable Tourism – Costa Rica, also known as CST. The CST has been acknowledged by the World Tourism Organization as “One of the programs that is rethinking how tourism is done.” One of the main reasons I chose CST as my main certification source is because it is a certification program designated for the country of Costa Rica, and it has a relatively long history, having been launched in 1997. The National Accreditation Commission of the CST is composed of the academic sector, private business, the public sector, and two international organizations, which are all responsible for granting CST distinction and making sure the certified businesses that advertise the CST label comply with the established guidelines. This helps tourist as well as agents and business owners who work with CST-certified businesses know exactly who are adhering to the ideals and standards of the CST. The CST ranks businesses from 0to 5 depending on the percentage in which the company has met with sustainable practices. Below I have provided their rating system. For further information about the CST please visit their website.
Level % of practices that meet
CST Sustainability Standards.
0 < 20
1 20-39
2 40-59
3 60-79
4 80-94
5 > 95
Website: www.turismo-sostenible.co.cr/en
The second certification program that I have chosen for this exciting trip is through Sustainable Tourism International (STI). Their motto is, “Leave the World a Better Place: Promoting responsible travel and ecotourism, supporting sustainable development, and helping travelers and travel providers protect the cultures and environments they visit”. The STI has developed a program titled the Sustainable Tourism Eco-Certification Program (STEP) which is the world’s first globally recognized sustainable tourism eco-certification program offered by a nonprofit organization, which is aligned with the minimum baseline Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria and impending global accreditation. The other great aspect of STEP is that companies in all sectors of the travel and tourism industry can be eco-certified through their program. Lastly, the World Tourism Organization also highly recommends STI and their SETP program. While STEP is a certification program focused around the United States, Sustainable Tourism International does also recommend many companies and activities in Costa Rica that follow ecotourism. In fact, STI has six separate locations around the world that include my home state of Washington, as well as San Jose Costa Rica. For more information on this certification and program, please visit their website.
Website: www.sustainabletravelinternational.org
Lastly I have chosen to include the Rainforest Alliance which is an international nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the conservation of tropical forests. The Rainforest Alliance “Works to conserve biodiversity and endure sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business practices, and consumer behavior.” Just like the CST and STI, the Rainforest Alliance also has a certification program for businesses that can be recognized internationally among travelers. I have chosen many activities throughout Costa Rica that are certified by the Rainforest Alliance. For more information please visit their website.
Website: www.rainforest-alliance.org
My original goal when I set out on this ecotourism adventure throughout Costa Rica was to have every aspect of my itinerary have some sort of certification process that was credible and recognizable. While I chose a country that markets itself as a destination for ecotourism, there were still places and activities that were lacking certification which forced me to improvise as best as I could. One major problem that arose while I was planning my ecotourism vacation was that being eco-friendly isn’t necessarily easy the budget traveler like myself. Many of the hotels and restaurants, and even some of the airfare between cities turned out to be rather costly. In fact, one of the most amazing ecolodges that I discovered can cost almost $500 a night per person. That means it would be nearly $1000 for my boyfriend and I to enjoy one night at their lodge. This may be possible for some travelers, but for my budget this would be impossible, or rather a lavish dream vacation. I realized that I had to do my best with the amount of money I had. While I would love to be able to indulge at the Lapa Rios Ecolodge, it isn’t practical. Instead, I will spend a lot of nights at hostels which are extremely affordable for anyone. While hostels have no formal rating or certification programs, they can be very eco-friendly. They are dorm style living that usually bunk more than a few travelers in each room. Usually they have only a couple of bathrooms that all of the guest use and share, and kind of run like a co-op. Everyone shares amenities, and resources are limited and conserved.
After all of the research and planning that I have put into my eco-friendly vacation to Costa Rica it is now time to begin my countdown to lift off on September 10th, 2010. Please check back after September 26th when I return home to the states, and have the opportunity to blog my experiences and recommendations of all of the places I visit and all of the activities I participated in while in Costa Rica.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Welcome To My Two Week Adventure Through Costa Rica
Transportation Options/Information:
Airplane: Nature Air is the first carbon neutral airline in the world. It fly’s domestically within Costa Rica, with most flights originating out of San Jose. They offer 74 daily flights with 14 different locations. Nature Air is carbon neutral thru a locally certified compensation program, certified by the government and international third party auditors. Nature Air has chosen to support reforestation and conservation programs to help combat the impacts of deforestation in Costa Rica. They are also a proud member of the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.natureair.com
Shuttle service: Gray Line Shuttle Bus is a carbon neutral company with a large variety of routes and locations that are sure to get you anywhere you wish to travel.
Website: www.graylinecostarica.com/graylinetouristbus.php
Local bus: This is the cheapest way to travel around San Jose and other cities. Just remember that many of the roads aren’t paved in Costa Rica and it can take a long time to go a short distance.
Website: www.thebusschedule.com/cr/
Day One and Two: San Jose & Heredia
I will arrive in San Jose Costa Rica by noon. From here I will take a taxi from the airport to my hotel/hostel. There I will have the opportunity to unpack and relax after my long journey to the beautiful country of Costa Rica. I will spend the rest of the day getting acquainted with my new surroundings and take a trip into the heart of San Jose. On day two I plan on venturing into the town of Heredia for some spectacular tours.
Transportation:
Taxi/Local Bus/Shuttle
The airport shuttles usually cost around $22 per person and can be cheaper than local taxies. I also have the option to take a taxi from the airport which doesn’t need to be arranged prior to arriving.
On day two I plan on taking a taxi or the local bus from San Jose to Heredia. They are about 9 miles apart and it is a short 30 minute ride by bus or taxi.
Hotels/Hostels:
Hotel Aurola - Holiday Inn is a 4/5 CST Level as well as a 5 star hotel that is completely smoke free. Total cost is about $130 a night and up.
Website: http://www.aurolahotels.com/en/index.php
Hostel Bekuo is a second eco-friendly option that is also very well priced and geared more to the backpacking traveler like myself. The hostel is very clean and has been rated the number one backpacker’s hostel for many years. It is a conversion of a 1950’s home with hardwood floors, modern bathrooms, a lounge (with pool table), and an Internet and TV lounge. Prices start as low as $13 a night and go up to $20 a night depending on the choice of dormitory style rooms and private ensuites.
Website: www.hostelbekuo.com
Food:
Breakfast is included with the room stay at Hotel Aurola
A Continental breakfast is included at Hostel Bekuo
Lunch/Dinner: I am going to spend some time exploring the various options in San Jose at the many different Sodas, which are small restaurants that serve local and fast food. I am excited to try the local cuisine and hope it is as good as I imagine it to be.
Activities:
On my first day I plan on seeing as many of these sites as possible:
National Center of Art and Culture: Formerly the old Liquid Factory, the building houses the National Cultural Center, performing arts, dance, theater, and the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design. Admission is only $3, and I can easily spend half a day exploring the various exhibits offered (STI recommended).
Website: www.madc.ac.cr
National Museum (Old Belleavista Barracks): After the abolition of the Costa Rican Army in 1949 this building was converted and now promotes the study of conservation and display of the country’s flora and fauna. The current themes at the museum are; archeology, national history, and natural history. Admission is $4 (STI recommended).
Website: www.museocostarica.go.cr
Post Office and Telegraph Building: A concrete building with electric style and French influence. This building was built between 1914 and 1917. It is another great example of the wonderful history and architecture in Costa Rica (STI recommended).
Heredia:
Coffee Tour Doka Estate: This is a half day tour which I will learn all there is to know about the production and processing of coffee. I will take a tour from a guided expert who will show me the estate and will teach me how different climates affect the taste of coffee. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=23
Botanical Orchid Garden Tour: This is another tour that I found interesting. If I can’t make the Coffee tour then I will definitely check out the Botanical Garden. It is a half day trip to a garden located in La Garita, about a 30 minute bus ride from downtown San Jose. This garden has become the habitat for hundreds of plants and birds for the past 30 years. Enjoy a nice walk through the trails and explore what this place has to offer. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=24
Day Three & Four: La Fortunal/Arenal
Transportation:
Fly Nature Air -. Local flights are offered daily from San Jose. Departure time is 11:40, Arrival time is 12:10.
A more economical choice for me would be to take the local bus or a shuttle from San Jose to La Fortunal. The expected drive time is around 3 hours and it will cost about $35.
Getting around town should be quite easy. If I stay at Arenal Backpackers Resort Iwill be walking distance from town. If for some reason I don’t t want to walk I can also take a very cheap taxi ride into the middle of town, which will cost about $4.
Hotel/Hostels:
Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa is a 4/5 CST level as well as a 5 star hotel. This hotel is in an awesome location with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. Here you can choose to participate in adventure tours or relax at their onsite spa (Neidin). This place is quite spendy with rates starting around $300 and going up towards $400 a night.
Website: www.hotelarenalkioro.com
Arenal Backpackers Resort is the perfect 5-star hostel for any traveler on a budget. It has also been rated one of the best hostels in Costa Rica, and provides a spectacular view of the Arenal Volcano, with a few minute walk to the center of town. I will have the option of dormitory style bedrooms or private deluxe covered tents. This hostel is perfect for travelers who want to get a feel for camping in Costa Rica which will be an awesome experience. Prices start as low as $14 a night per person.
Website: www.arenalbackpackersresort.com/
Food:
Hotel Arenal Kioro has their own restaurant onsite called Heliconias. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and has a specialized international kitchen.
Arenal Backpackers Resort has an onsite restaurant/bar that I can eat at. Breakfast is not included in thestay. There is also a small grocery store just 4 blocks down the street for convenience.
I also need to keep in mind that many of the guided tours offer lunch and snacks as part of their service, so I will only need to worry about dinner for the two nights.
Activities:
White Water Rafting: El Toro River (The Bull River) – Class 3 & 4. This river winds 9miles through the canyon and offers some of the best white water rafting in Costa Rica. On this trip I will travel through the many pineapple, papaya, and yucca fields with the Arenal Volcano in the background. This is a full day trip and you will be provided with transportation snacks and a full lunch. This is definitely something I plan on doing and it cost about $85.
Website: www.arenal.net/tour/toro-river/
I also plan on spending one of my days exploring the Arenal Volcano. I will probably go on my own to explore, but I also have the choice to go with a guided group. The Arenal Volcano is one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world, and is a definite must see.
Website: www.arenal.net/
Baldi Hot Springs: With over 30 hot and cold pools the Baldi Hot Springs is a great and affordable option. The facility includes 3 swim-up bars, 2 waterslides, a restaurant, and spa. For only $42 for the entire day (open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) I can enjoy all the amenities the Hot Springs have to offer, including a full dinner. This is something I have never experienced before, and definitely plan on exploring this option.
Website: www.arenal.net/baldi-hot-springs.htm
Horseback Riding: To La Fortuna Waterfall. During this trip I will get to spend half the day on horseback exploring the Costa Rican country side seeing various agriculture farms. The tour will pick me up at my hotel and snacks and lunch will be provided. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance. The cost is $59 per person, and is something that I would choose as a back up activity if rafting is booked up.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=19
Day Five & Six: Monteverde
Transportation:
To get from La Fortuna to Monteverde the options are slightly limited unfortunately. I can either take a private shuttle, which will pick up at Hotel Arenal Kioro at 8:30a.m. and will take about 5 and half hours to reach Monteverde. Once I arrive in Monteverde I will be dropped off at my hotel around 2:00 p.m. The cost of the shuttle is around $45 per person.
A slightly cheaper and more adventurous route that only takes 3 and a half hours is a taxi boat across Lake Arenal. This is the option I plan on taking and will be picked up by a taxi from my hotel at 8:30 a.m., and then taken to the Lake Arenal Dam. There I will catch a 30 minuet taxi boat ride across Lake Arenal to Rip Chiquito. Finally, I will take a mini bus for the last hour and a half into Monteverde. The cost of this transfer option is only $25 per person which works perfect with my budget.
Website: www.arenal.net/tour/monteverde-boat-taxi.htm
Hotels/Hostels:
Villa Blanca Could Forest Hotel Spa & Nature Reserve is a 5/5 CST level and a nature resort. This is a 75 acre boutique hotel that focuses on comfort and conservation. Villa Blanca is the first hotel in the past 8 years that has received the highest CST rating of 5. They also have a wonderful restaurant (El Sendero) with many traditional Costa Rican family dished to choose from. If I feel like relaxing and taking it easy, or exploring the most biologically diverse land, this is the hotel to stay at. The cost is around $155 per night.
Website: www.villablanca-costarica.com
Manakin Lodge is located less than 2 miles from the cloud forest entrance. I would definitely consider this a more upscale form of a backpacker’s hostel but with affordable rates starting at $20. Breakfast is included in the stay at the Manakin Lodge and all tours willpick up out front at the lodge. This place is very conveniently located for all types of travelers.
Website: www.manakinlodge.com/
Food:
At the El Sendero Restaurant guest can enjoy all three meals if they choose, or always go out into town and explore the many different restaurants the locals have to offer. A full breakfast is included with your stay.
Breakfast is included at the Manakin Lodge. They also have a restaurant located onsite that you can eat lunch and dinner at.
Activities:
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: A private biological reserve that is dedicated to the conservation of the rare flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. Although it is a rainforest, it is called a cloud forest due to the high altitude. The reserve is a total of 26,000 acres and is one of the best places for bird watchers of all kinds. It is important to note that your entrance fees actually go to the maintenance of the cloud forest which are less than $10 per person.
Zip Line & Canopy Tour: Experience Monteverde from high above. During this three hour tour I will have a chance to experience flying over the rainforest between 8suspended bridges and 9 cable systems. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance. I have taken a tour like this in Whistler, Canada before and loved it. The price is only $60 which is rather cheap for what the tour has to offer.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=27
Day Seven & Eight: Jaco Beach
Transportation:
From Monteverde I will take the Gray Line Shuttle from the hotel at 9:00 a.m. and travel down to Jaco Beach and arrive at the Best Western at 2:00 p.m. The cost of the shuttle will be about $45 per person, and the trip will last a total of 5 hours.
Hotels/Hostels:
The Best Western Jaco Beach is a 4/5 CST Level hotel right on the beach. In fact, it is the only hotel in Jaco that is CST certified. They also offer many tours from their hotel and have a pool and fitness center for guest to enjoy. This is rather reasonably priced CST hotel starting at about $95 per night.
Website: www.bestwestern.com
Las Camas Hostel is located one block from the beach. The owner, Edit is there almost all the time and is very accommodating. There is a full kitchen with a fridge so I will be able to make all of your meals if I want. This hostel has a relaxed vibe and is definitely affordable starting at $14 per night.
Website: www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Las-Camas-Hostel/Jaco/28472
Food:
The Best Western offers a complimentary continental breakfast for all of its guests. The Mambo restaurant on site is open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. with all three meals and all you can eat buffets. There is also a beachfront bar (El Puerto). Less than half a mile down the street are a variety of local fast food type restaurants that I might check out as well.
The Las Camas Hostel has a full kitchen at the guests disposal as well as a BBQ area to cook. Breakfast is not included, but Las Camas is only a couple of blocks from many different restaurants and local stores.
Activities:
Today marks the halfway point of my trip. I plan on taking today to relax and rejuvenate. I will spend the day exploring at the beach in Jaco. Maybe take a nice walk along the beach and intake the beautiful scenery. I would love to visit some of the shops, do a little shopping for souvenirs, and spend some time interacting and getting to know the locals. Hopefully practice some of my rusty Spanish.
Tranopy Tour: I will begin this tour on the famous tram which will allow me to experience all layers of the rainforest from the floor to the treetops. It is basically a large enclosed ski lift. At the end of the tram ride I will then experience the canopy portion which includes 10 cables. I will also get to visit Heliconias Gallery, Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Garden, and a snake exhibition (Eww on the snakes). There is definitely something for everyone with this half day tour. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level,and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=9ce.
I am definitely a beach kind of person and found surfing lessons I could take while at Jaco Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Costa Rica and will have fun nightlife with lively entertainment.
Website: www.jacosurfschool.com
Day Nine & Ten: Quepos/Manuel Antonio
Transportation:
I can leave from Jaco to Quepos as early as 8:30 a.m. and on throughout the day. The bus ride will last about an hour and a half and will take me right into Quepos.
To get from the hotel in Quepos/Manuel Antonio to Manuel Antonio National Park I will take the local bus. The bus ride is only 30 minutes long and can be caught as early as 5:00 a.m. I can then take the same local bus back later on that day/night from Manuel Antonio National Park to the hotel in Quepos/Manuel Antonio for my last night at the hotel.
Hotels/Hostels:
Arenas Del Mar Beach & Nature Resort is a 5/5 CST level hotel with sustainability as its key feature. The actual Arenas Del Mar only covers about 25% of the property, with the rest being a private nature reserve. This hotel is actually in Manuel Antonio and not Quepos. I couldn’t find any prices on their website which could only mean one thing. Too expensive for my blood, although I can dream cant I? One thing I have noticed is that the CST level 5 resorts are extremely pricey.
Website: www.arenasdelmar.com
Si Como No Resort Spa & Wildlife Refuge is a 5/5 CST level hotel located just above Manuel Antonio National Park. It is an award-winning eco-design nature resort & spa that offers their own version of “barefoot luxury.” Si Como No is also a recipient of the 2009 Rain Forest Alliance Corporate Sustainable Standard-setters award. On site Si Como No features restaurants, pools, a movie theater, and also an art gallery that features local artist from the area. The cheapest room, which looks amazing, is $370 a night. Not too practical for my budget, but still a great place for someone who can afford it.
Website: www.sicomono.com
Backpackers Manuel Antonio is one of the few hostels around this area and is perfect for the budget traveler. With striking views of the ocean and forest that includes a pool and hot tub for your enjoyment. They are located in the middle of town right next to a pharmacy and are about a five minute drive to the National Park. It has also been rated one of the top hostels in Costa Rica. This is definitely the place I will be staying with rates as low as $12 per person.
Website: www.backpackersmanuelantonio.com
Food:
Arenas Del Mar has two different restaurants onsite that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is the El Mirador Restaurant and Bar which hangs over the Espadilla Beach and has a wonderful view of the ocean and Manuel Antonio National Park. This is a Costa Rican fusion restaurant. The second restaurant and bar is called Playitas and sits on the secluded Playitas beach.
Si Como No has the Claro Que Si Restaurant which is upscale dining in a casual seating that offers dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. There is also a more casual outdoor restaurant that is called the Rico Tico Bar & Grill with a buffet and is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Lastly there is the Boca Bar Mogotes swim up bar that is located in the adult pool where I most likely would be hanging out.
Backpackers Manuel Antonio has a variety of choices from the restaurant to the café and the bar. There is also a BBQ area for people to use, and they are only 300 feet from the grocery store. Breakfast is included with the stay.
Activities:
Si Como No Resort offers a large variety of tours and activities for their guest. Since I am a huge fan of water excursions then I would definitely try any combination of their; sport fishing, dolphin discovery & snorkeling, Carara Biological Reserve Jungle River Cruise, Dama Island Estuary Boat Trip, and sea kayaking to name a few. For land activities there is plenty of bird watching, a spice plantation tour & gourmet tasting, and mountain biking. This resort offers activities that would suite anyone anytime and anywhere.
Manuel Antonio National Park: This Park is located just south of Quepos on the Pacific Coast and is Costa Rica’s smallest national park. It has white sand beaches that are paired with a forest that grows right up to the high tide line. There are over 109 species of mammals and 184 birds to be seen. There is a combination of rain forest terrain, beautiful beaches, and coral reefs to be seen. I look forward to spending the day exploring what this beautiful Park has to offer. The entrance fee is $10 per person.
Website: www.manuelantoniopark.com
Day Eleven & Twelve: Osa Peninsula
Transportation:
I will Fly Nature Air from Quepos into Puerto Jimenez. The daily flight leaves Quepos at 10:45 a.m. and arrives in Puerto Jimenez at 12:35 p.m. The total flight duration is one hour and 50 minutes. The cost is around $116 per person.
Hotels/Hostels:
Lapa Rios Ecolodge is a 5/5 CST level hotel, and was Ranked by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 50 Ecolodges. The Rainforest Alliance has named it a corporate sustainable standard setter as of 2007. Lapa Rios is set in a private nature reserve and sprawls over 1,000 acres of some of the last remaining lowland tropical rainforest in Central America. The Ecolodge overlooks the area where the Golfo Dulce meets the Pacific Ocean. This ecolodge is pretty pricey with a price tag of $300 per person per night on the low season. Rates increase more during high season.
Website: www.laparios.com
There are no hostels available in the Osa Peninsula, so this can be an expensive area to stay in. I plan on camping somewhere near or in the Corcovado National Park.
Food:
Lapa Rios has a wonderful restaurant named Brisa Azul onsite. Instead of having a designated chef to cook all your meals, there are eight local men who have come from the farmlands and have learned how to cook and bake in a kitchen. I can eat any meal at the restaurant, and they have even published two cookbooks from their kitchen in 2002 and 2009.
Activities:
I want to us se one of my last free days before your trip ends to go explore something new. I also would like to relax and lay by the pool or head out on a self-guided trail. Something that I would love to do is go and play and experience soccer matches with the locals, this is free and would give me the opportunity to practice more of Spanish. Maybe if I have enough money left over I will treat myself to a 50 minute therapeutic massage which cost $70 for the hour.
Corcovado National Park: This is a world-famous park in one of the most biologically rich places on Earth. Here I will have the opportunity to experience some extremely rare wildlife while visiting the park. I will also have the opportunity to see part of Costa Rica’s rainforest that is pure and pristine and is considered a real jungle. There are over 375 species of birds, 125 mammals, 50 types of bats, and 131 reptiles and amphibians. Along with animals there are over 850 trees, 1500 plants, and more than 6000 insects. This is truly an adventure waiting to happen. The entrance fee goes towards the maintenance of the Park and is less than $10 a day.
Website: www.costarica-nationalparks.com/corcovadonationalpark.html
Day Thirteen: Limon/Cahuita
Transportation:
I will with Fly Nature Air from Puerto Jimenez to Limon. Then I will take a local taxi from the airport to the hotel.
Hotels/Hostels:
Almonds and Corals Hotel is a 4/5 CST level hotel. It is located among the jungle of Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. It is part Caribbean beach resort, part safari camp, and part eco-conscious boutique hotel. This hotel will accommodate any type of traveler with its unique three in one design, but is costly with a price tag of $300 per person per night.
Website: www.almondsandcorals.com
Cabinas Caribe Luna is a complex made up of spacious fully equipped houses/apartments. They are set in an exotic garden and conveniently located close to downtown. A very tranquil location, with about a 5 minute walk into the town of Cahuita. This option would be great for any traveler like me that is on a budget with rooms starting at $39 per night.
Website: www.caribeluna.com
Food:
Breakfast and Dinner are both included with the hotel room price at Almonds and Corals open-air restaurant and bar. In addition, lunch can be provided at an extra cost. Breakfast is served from 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Dinner is served from 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Cabinas Caribe Luna apartments are all equipped with full kitchen and fridges. I can buy groceries in town, and cook in my own room. Otherwise I will be only a short distance to all of the restaurants in town if I prefer.
Activities:
Talamanca Organic Farms & Chocolate Factory Tour: This is a half day trip to the Talamanca region which is a mixture of the costal lowlands, and the mountain foothills. The Talamanca’s cocoa is exported all over the world. I will get the opportunity to experience a certified organic farm that produces variety of food. I will also get to try the products that are made on the farm (Yum!). This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance, and cost $85 per person.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=35
Rainforest Aerial Tram: Their mission is to, “sustain the environment and help conserve our natural resources while providing a world class eco-tourism experience.” I will have an opportunity to ride the rainforest aerial tram ever high above the forest and explore the Transitional Tropical Rainforest. This company STI recommended, and cost $55 per person to ride the tram.
Website: www.rainforestrams.com
Cahuita National Park: This Park is best known for the coral reefs close to shore. There is great snorkeling from the beach with over 500 species of fish endemic to the reefs. The entrance fee to the Park is $7 and it is open seven days a week. There are also plenty of hiking trails to go and investigate. There is even camping allowed in the Puerto Vargas section, which is 2 miles south of Cahuita that I might try to save some money.
Website: www.costarica-nationalparks.com/cahuitanationalpark.html
Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is located only 8 miles southeast of Puerto Viejo. It protects many species of animals that are either endangered, or whose population has been dramatically reduced. The terrain is flat with some gently rolling hills, with fine sandy beaches. This truly is a paradise for nature and underwater lovers.
Website: www.costarica-nationalparks.com/gandocamanzanillowildliferefuge.html
Day Fourteen: San Jose International Airport
Transportation:
I will Fly Nature Air from Limon back into San Jose. Here I will go to the San Jose International Airport to catch my flight back home. Hopefully I will have plenty of pictures and stories to bring home and share with my friends and family, and with my blog followers.
Airplane: Nature Air is the first carbon neutral airline in the world. It fly’s domestically within Costa Rica, with most flights originating out of San Jose. They offer 74 daily flights with 14 different locations. Nature Air is carbon neutral thru a locally certified compensation program, certified by the government and international third party auditors. Nature Air has chosen to support reforestation and conservation programs to help combat the impacts of deforestation in Costa Rica. They are also a proud member of the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.natureair.com
Shuttle service: Gray Line Shuttle Bus is a carbon neutral company with a large variety of routes and locations that are sure to get you anywhere you wish to travel.
Website: www.graylinecostarica.com/graylinetouristbus.php
Local bus: This is the cheapest way to travel around San Jose and other cities. Just remember that many of the roads aren’t paved in Costa Rica and it can take a long time to go a short distance.
Website: www.thebusschedule.com/cr/
Day One and Two: San Jose & Heredia
I will arrive in San Jose Costa Rica by noon. From here I will take a taxi from the airport to my hotel/hostel. There I will have the opportunity to unpack and relax after my long journey to the beautiful country of Costa Rica. I will spend the rest of the day getting acquainted with my new surroundings and take a trip into the heart of San Jose. On day two I plan on venturing into the town of Heredia for some spectacular tours.
Transportation:
Taxi/Local Bus/Shuttle
The airport shuttles usually cost around $22 per person and can be cheaper than local taxies. I also have the option to take a taxi from the airport which doesn’t need to be arranged prior to arriving.
On day two I plan on taking a taxi or the local bus from San Jose to Heredia. They are about 9 miles apart and it is a short 30 minute ride by bus or taxi.
Hotels/Hostels:
Hotel Aurola - Holiday Inn is a 4/5 CST Level as well as a 5 star hotel that is completely smoke free. Total cost is about $130 a night and up.
Website: http://www.aurolahotels.com/en/index.php
Hostel Bekuo is a second eco-friendly option that is also very well priced and geared more to the backpacking traveler like myself. The hostel is very clean and has been rated the number one backpacker’s hostel for many years. It is a conversion of a 1950’s home with hardwood floors, modern bathrooms, a lounge (with pool table), and an Internet and TV lounge. Prices start as low as $13 a night and go up to $20 a night depending on the choice of dormitory style rooms and private ensuites.
Website: www.hostelbekuo.com
Food:
Breakfast is included with the room stay at Hotel Aurola
A Continental breakfast is included at Hostel Bekuo
Lunch/Dinner: I am going to spend some time exploring the various options in San Jose at the many different Sodas, which are small restaurants that serve local and fast food. I am excited to try the local cuisine and hope it is as good as I imagine it to be.
Activities:
On my first day I plan on seeing as many of these sites as possible:
National Center of Art and Culture: Formerly the old Liquid Factory, the building houses the National Cultural Center, performing arts, dance, theater, and the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design. Admission is only $3, and I can easily spend half a day exploring the various exhibits offered (STI recommended).
Website: www.madc.ac.cr
National Museum (Old Belleavista Barracks): After the abolition of the Costa Rican Army in 1949 this building was converted and now promotes the study of conservation and display of the country’s flora and fauna. The current themes at the museum are; archeology, national history, and natural history. Admission is $4 (STI recommended).
Website: www.museocostarica.go.cr
Post Office and Telegraph Building: A concrete building with electric style and French influence. This building was built between 1914 and 1917. It is another great example of the wonderful history and architecture in Costa Rica (STI recommended).
Heredia:
Coffee Tour Doka Estate: This is a half day tour which I will learn all there is to know about the production and processing of coffee. I will take a tour from a guided expert who will show me the estate and will teach me how different climates affect the taste of coffee. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=23
Botanical Orchid Garden Tour: This is another tour that I found interesting. If I can’t make the Coffee tour then I will definitely check out the Botanical Garden. It is a half day trip to a garden located in La Garita, about a 30 minute bus ride from downtown San Jose. This garden has become the habitat for hundreds of plants and birds for the past 30 years. Enjoy a nice walk through the trails and explore what this place has to offer. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=24
Day Three & Four: La Fortunal/Arenal
Transportation:
Fly Nature Air -. Local flights are offered daily from San Jose. Departure time is 11:40, Arrival time is 12:10.
A more economical choice for me would be to take the local bus or a shuttle from San Jose to La Fortunal. The expected drive time is around 3 hours and it will cost about $35.
Getting around town should be quite easy. If I stay at Arenal Backpackers Resort Iwill be walking distance from town. If for some reason I don’t t want to walk I can also take a very cheap taxi ride into the middle of town, which will cost about $4.
Hotel/Hostels:
Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa is a 4/5 CST level as well as a 5 star hotel. This hotel is in an awesome location with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. Here you can choose to participate in adventure tours or relax at their onsite spa (Neidin). This place is quite spendy with rates starting around $300 and going up towards $400 a night.
Website: www.hotelarenalkioro.com
Arenal Backpackers Resort is the perfect 5-star hostel for any traveler on a budget. It has also been rated one of the best hostels in Costa Rica, and provides a spectacular view of the Arenal Volcano, with a few minute walk to the center of town. I will have the option of dormitory style bedrooms or private deluxe covered tents. This hostel is perfect for travelers who want to get a feel for camping in Costa Rica which will be an awesome experience. Prices start as low as $14 a night per person.
Website: www.arenalbackpackersresort.com/
Food:
Hotel Arenal Kioro has their own restaurant onsite called Heliconias. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and has a specialized international kitchen.
Arenal Backpackers Resort has an onsite restaurant/bar that I can eat at. Breakfast is not included in thestay. There is also a small grocery store just 4 blocks down the street for convenience.
I also need to keep in mind that many of the guided tours offer lunch and snacks as part of their service, so I will only need to worry about dinner for the two nights.
Activities:
White Water Rafting: El Toro River (The Bull River) – Class 3 & 4. This river winds 9miles through the canyon and offers some of the best white water rafting in Costa Rica. On this trip I will travel through the many pineapple, papaya, and yucca fields with the Arenal Volcano in the background. This is a full day trip and you will be provided with transportation snacks and a full lunch. This is definitely something I plan on doing and it cost about $85.
Website: www.arenal.net/tour/toro-river/
I also plan on spending one of my days exploring the Arenal Volcano. I will probably go on my own to explore, but I also have the choice to go with a guided group. The Arenal Volcano is one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world, and is a definite must see.
Website: www.arenal.net/
Baldi Hot Springs: With over 30 hot and cold pools the Baldi Hot Springs is a great and affordable option. The facility includes 3 swim-up bars, 2 waterslides, a restaurant, and spa. For only $42 for the entire day (open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) I can enjoy all the amenities the Hot Springs have to offer, including a full dinner. This is something I have never experienced before, and definitely plan on exploring this option.
Website: www.arenal.net/baldi-hot-springs.htm
Horseback Riding: To La Fortuna Waterfall. During this trip I will get to spend half the day on horseback exploring the Costa Rican country side seeing various agriculture farms. The tour will pick me up at my hotel and snacks and lunch will be provided. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance. The cost is $59 per person, and is something that I would choose as a back up activity if rafting is booked up.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=19
Day Five & Six: Monteverde
Transportation:
To get from La Fortuna to Monteverde the options are slightly limited unfortunately. I can either take a private shuttle, which will pick up at Hotel Arenal Kioro at 8:30a.m. and will take about 5 and half hours to reach Monteverde. Once I arrive in Monteverde I will be dropped off at my hotel around 2:00 p.m. The cost of the shuttle is around $45 per person.
A slightly cheaper and more adventurous route that only takes 3 and a half hours is a taxi boat across Lake Arenal. This is the option I plan on taking and will be picked up by a taxi from my hotel at 8:30 a.m., and then taken to the Lake Arenal Dam. There I will catch a 30 minuet taxi boat ride across Lake Arenal to Rip Chiquito. Finally, I will take a mini bus for the last hour and a half into Monteverde. The cost of this transfer option is only $25 per person which works perfect with my budget.
Website: www.arenal.net/tour/monteverde-boat-taxi.htm
Hotels/Hostels:
Villa Blanca Could Forest Hotel Spa & Nature Reserve is a 5/5 CST level and a nature resort. This is a 75 acre boutique hotel that focuses on comfort and conservation. Villa Blanca is the first hotel in the past 8 years that has received the highest CST rating of 5. They also have a wonderful restaurant (El Sendero) with many traditional Costa Rican family dished to choose from. If I feel like relaxing and taking it easy, or exploring the most biologically diverse land, this is the hotel to stay at. The cost is around $155 per night.
Website: www.villablanca-costarica.com
Manakin Lodge is located less than 2 miles from the cloud forest entrance. I would definitely consider this a more upscale form of a backpacker’s hostel but with affordable rates starting at $20. Breakfast is included in the stay at the Manakin Lodge and all tours willpick up out front at the lodge. This place is very conveniently located for all types of travelers.
Website: www.manakinlodge.com/
Food:
At the El Sendero Restaurant guest can enjoy all three meals if they choose, or always go out into town and explore the many different restaurants the locals have to offer. A full breakfast is included with your stay.
Breakfast is included at the Manakin Lodge. They also have a restaurant located onsite that you can eat lunch and dinner at.
Activities:
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: A private biological reserve that is dedicated to the conservation of the rare flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. Although it is a rainforest, it is called a cloud forest due to the high altitude. The reserve is a total of 26,000 acres and is one of the best places for bird watchers of all kinds. It is important to note that your entrance fees actually go to the maintenance of the cloud forest which are less than $10 per person.
Zip Line & Canopy Tour: Experience Monteverde from high above. During this three hour tour I will have a chance to experience flying over the rainforest between 8suspended bridges and 9 cable systems. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance. I have taken a tour like this in Whistler, Canada before and loved it. The price is only $60 which is rather cheap for what the tour has to offer.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=27
Day Seven & Eight: Jaco Beach
Transportation:
From Monteverde I will take the Gray Line Shuttle from the hotel at 9:00 a.m. and travel down to Jaco Beach and arrive at the Best Western at 2:00 p.m. The cost of the shuttle will be about $45 per person, and the trip will last a total of 5 hours.
Hotels/Hostels:
The Best Western Jaco Beach is a 4/5 CST Level hotel right on the beach. In fact, it is the only hotel in Jaco that is CST certified. They also offer many tours from their hotel and have a pool and fitness center for guest to enjoy. This is rather reasonably priced CST hotel starting at about $95 per night.
Website: www.bestwestern.com
Las Camas Hostel is located one block from the beach. The owner, Edit is there almost all the time and is very accommodating. There is a full kitchen with a fridge so I will be able to make all of your meals if I want. This hostel has a relaxed vibe and is definitely affordable starting at $14 per night.
Website: www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Las-Camas-Hostel/Jaco/28472
Food:
The Best Western offers a complimentary continental breakfast for all of its guests. The Mambo restaurant on site is open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. with all three meals and all you can eat buffets. There is also a beachfront bar (El Puerto). Less than half a mile down the street are a variety of local fast food type restaurants that I might check out as well.
The Las Camas Hostel has a full kitchen at the guests disposal as well as a BBQ area to cook. Breakfast is not included, but Las Camas is only a couple of blocks from many different restaurants and local stores.
Activities:
Today marks the halfway point of my trip. I plan on taking today to relax and rejuvenate. I will spend the day exploring at the beach in Jaco. Maybe take a nice walk along the beach and intake the beautiful scenery. I would love to visit some of the shops, do a little shopping for souvenirs, and spend some time interacting and getting to know the locals. Hopefully practice some of my rusty Spanish.
Tranopy Tour: I will begin this tour on the famous tram which will allow me to experience all layers of the rainforest from the floor to the treetops. It is basically a large enclosed ski lift. At the end of the tram ride I will then experience the canopy portion which includes 10 cables. I will also get to visit Heliconias Gallery, Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Garden, and a snake exhibition (Eww on the snakes). There is definitely something for everyone with this half day tour. This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level,and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=9ce.
I am definitely a beach kind of person and found surfing lessons I could take while at Jaco Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Costa Rica and will have fun nightlife with lively entertainment.
Website: www.jacosurfschool.com
Day Nine & Ten: Quepos/Manuel Antonio
Transportation:
I can leave from Jaco to Quepos as early as 8:30 a.m. and on throughout the day. The bus ride will last about an hour and a half and will take me right into Quepos.
To get from the hotel in Quepos/Manuel Antonio to Manuel Antonio National Park I will take the local bus. The bus ride is only 30 minutes long and can be caught as early as 5:00 a.m. I can then take the same local bus back later on that day/night from Manuel Antonio National Park to the hotel in Quepos/Manuel Antonio for my last night at the hotel.
Hotels/Hostels:
Arenas Del Mar Beach & Nature Resort is a 5/5 CST level hotel with sustainability as its key feature. The actual Arenas Del Mar only covers about 25% of the property, with the rest being a private nature reserve. This hotel is actually in Manuel Antonio and not Quepos. I couldn’t find any prices on their website which could only mean one thing. Too expensive for my blood, although I can dream cant I? One thing I have noticed is that the CST level 5 resorts are extremely pricey.
Website: www.arenasdelmar.com
Si Como No Resort Spa & Wildlife Refuge is a 5/5 CST level hotel located just above Manuel Antonio National Park. It is an award-winning eco-design nature resort & spa that offers their own version of “barefoot luxury.” Si Como No is also a recipient of the 2009 Rain Forest Alliance Corporate Sustainable Standard-setters award. On site Si Como No features restaurants, pools, a movie theater, and also an art gallery that features local artist from the area. The cheapest room, which looks amazing, is $370 a night. Not too practical for my budget, but still a great place for someone who can afford it.
Website: www.sicomono.com
Backpackers Manuel Antonio is one of the few hostels around this area and is perfect for the budget traveler. With striking views of the ocean and forest that includes a pool and hot tub for your enjoyment. They are located in the middle of town right next to a pharmacy and are about a five minute drive to the National Park. It has also been rated one of the top hostels in Costa Rica. This is definitely the place I will be staying with rates as low as $12 per person.
Website: www.backpackersmanuelantonio.com
Food:
Arenas Del Mar has two different restaurants onsite that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is the El Mirador Restaurant and Bar which hangs over the Espadilla Beach and has a wonderful view of the ocean and Manuel Antonio National Park. This is a Costa Rican fusion restaurant. The second restaurant and bar is called Playitas and sits on the secluded Playitas beach.
Si Como No has the Claro Que Si Restaurant which is upscale dining in a casual seating that offers dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. There is also a more casual outdoor restaurant that is called the Rico Tico Bar & Grill with a buffet and is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Lastly there is the Boca Bar Mogotes swim up bar that is located in the adult pool where I most likely would be hanging out.
Backpackers Manuel Antonio has a variety of choices from the restaurant to the café and the bar. There is also a BBQ area for people to use, and they are only 300 feet from the grocery store. Breakfast is included with the stay.
Activities:
Si Como No Resort offers a large variety of tours and activities for their guest. Since I am a huge fan of water excursions then I would definitely try any combination of their; sport fishing, dolphin discovery & snorkeling, Carara Biological Reserve Jungle River Cruise, Dama Island Estuary Boat Trip, and sea kayaking to name a few. For land activities there is plenty of bird watching, a spice plantation tour & gourmet tasting, and mountain biking. This resort offers activities that would suite anyone anytime and anywhere.
Manuel Antonio National Park: This Park is located just south of Quepos on the Pacific Coast and is Costa Rica’s smallest national park. It has white sand beaches that are paired with a forest that grows right up to the high tide line. There are over 109 species of mammals and 184 birds to be seen. There is a combination of rain forest terrain, beautiful beaches, and coral reefs to be seen. I look forward to spending the day exploring what this beautiful Park has to offer. The entrance fee is $10 per person.
Website: www.manuelantoniopark.com
Day Eleven & Twelve: Osa Peninsula
Transportation:
I will Fly Nature Air from Quepos into Puerto Jimenez. The daily flight leaves Quepos at 10:45 a.m. and arrives in Puerto Jimenez at 12:35 p.m. The total flight duration is one hour and 50 minutes. The cost is around $116 per person.
Hotels/Hostels:
Lapa Rios Ecolodge is a 5/5 CST level hotel, and was Ranked by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 50 Ecolodges. The Rainforest Alliance has named it a corporate sustainable standard setter as of 2007. Lapa Rios is set in a private nature reserve and sprawls over 1,000 acres of some of the last remaining lowland tropical rainforest in Central America. The Ecolodge overlooks the area where the Golfo Dulce meets the Pacific Ocean. This ecolodge is pretty pricey with a price tag of $300 per person per night on the low season. Rates increase more during high season.
Website: www.laparios.com
There are no hostels available in the Osa Peninsula, so this can be an expensive area to stay in. I plan on camping somewhere near or in the Corcovado National Park.
Food:
Lapa Rios has a wonderful restaurant named Brisa Azul onsite. Instead of having a designated chef to cook all your meals, there are eight local men who have come from the farmlands and have learned how to cook and bake in a kitchen. I can eat any meal at the restaurant, and they have even published two cookbooks from their kitchen in 2002 and 2009.
Activities:
I want to us se one of my last free days before your trip ends to go explore something new. I also would like to relax and lay by the pool or head out on a self-guided trail. Something that I would love to do is go and play and experience soccer matches with the locals, this is free and would give me the opportunity to practice more of Spanish. Maybe if I have enough money left over I will treat myself to a 50 minute therapeutic massage which cost $70 for the hour.
Corcovado National Park: This is a world-famous park in one of the most biologically rich places on Earth. Here I will have the opportunity to experience some extremely rare wildlife while visiting the park. I will also have the opportunity to see part of Costa Rica’s rainforest that is pure and pristine and is considered a real jungle. There are over 375 species of birds, 125 mammals, 50 types of bats, and 131 reptiles and amphibians. Along with animals there are over 850 trees, 1500 plants, and more than 6000 insects. This is truly an adventure waiting to happen. The entrance fee goes towards the maintenance of the Park and is less than $10 a day.
Website: www.costarica-nationalparks.com/corcovadonationalpark.html
Day Thirteen: Limon/Cahuita
Transportation:
I will with Fly Nature Air from Puerto Jimenez to Limon. Then I will take a local taxi from the airport to the hotel.
Hotels/Hostels:
Almonds and Corals Hotel is a 4/5 CST level hotel. It is located among the jungle of Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. It is part Caribbean beach resort, part safari camp, and part eco-conscious boutique hotel. This hotel will accommodate any type of traveler with its unique three in one design, but is costly with a price tag of $300 per person per night.
Website: www.almondsandcorals.com
Cabinas Caribe Luna is a complex made up of spacious fully equipped houses/apartments. They are set in an exotic garden and conveniently located close to downtown. A very tranquil location, with about a 5 minute walk into the town of Cahuita. This option would be great for any traveler like me that is on a budget with rooms starting at $39 per night.
Website: www.caribeluna.com
Food:
Breakfast and Dinner are both included with the hotel room price at Almonds and Corals open-air restaurant and bar. In addition, lunch can be provided at an extra cost. Breakfast is served from 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Dinner is served from 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Cabinas Caribe Luna apartments are all equipped with full kitchen and fridges. I can buy groceries in town, and cook in my own room. Otherwise I will be only a short distance to all of the restaurants in town if I prefer.
Activities:
Talamanca Organic Farms & Chocolate Factory Tour: This is a half day trip to the Talamanca region which is a mixture of the costal lowlands, and the mountain foothills. The Talamanca’s cocoa is exported all over the world. I will get the opportunity to experience a certified organic farm that produces variety of food. I will also get to try the products that are made on the farm (Yum!). This tour is a certified 4/5 CST level, and recognized by the Rainforest Alliance, and cost $85 per person.
Website: www.vesatours.com/det_tours.php?kasidnftouo=35
Rainforest Aerial Tram: Their mission is to, “sustain the environment and help conserve our natural resources while providing a world class eco-tourism experience.” I will have an opportunity to ride the rainforest aerial tram ever high above the forest and explore the Transitional Tropical Rainforest. This company STI recommended, and cost $55 per person to ride the tram.
Website: www.rainforestrams.com
Cahuita National Park: This Park is best known for the coral reefs close to shore. There is great snorkeling from the beach with over 500 species of fish endemic to the reefs. The entrance fee to the Park is $7 and it is open seven days a week. There are also plenty of hiking trails to go and investigate. There is even camping allowed in the Puerto Vargas section, which is 2 miles south of Cahuita that I might try to save some money.
Website: www.costarica-nationalparks.com/cahuitanationalpark.html
Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is located only 8 miles southeast of Puerto Viejo. It protects many species of animals that are either endangered, or whose population has been dramatically reduced. The terrain is flat with some gently rolling hills, with fine sandy beaches. This truly is a paradise for nature and underwater lovers.
Website: www.costarica-nationalparks.com/gandocamanzanillowildliferefuge.html
Day Fourteen: San Jose International Airport
Transportation:
I will Fly Nature Air from Limon back into San Jose. Here I will go to the San Jose International Airport to catch my flight back home. Hopefully I will have plenty of pictures and stories to bring home and share with my friends and family, and with my blog followers.
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