A sunny morning greeted us along with our guide, Mario. Our first stop was at a coffee plantation where we learned about one of Costa Rica's most important exports and began to become coffee snobs ("avoid the 1820--it's swill; the Tarrazu is the best.") Ask me about how they process it, if you dare. It was early enough in the day to welcome the samples too.
Our next stop was La Paz Waterfall Garden. By then our friend Rain had returned. Since it was not cold, those of us from the Pacific Northwest could not complain. This was an amazing park with many different displays, including hummingbirds and other birds, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians. The trail through the gorge with the waterfalls was well-constructed and the waterfalls were especially powerful from all the recent rain. My heart goes out to all those affected by the recent earthquake. It is humbling to have stood in places that only a few weeks later were scenes of devastation. I hope this wonderful destination can recover quickly.
We continued on to Arenal Observatory Lodge near the slopes of Arenal volcano. It was soon dark but the clouds lifted. As we were unpacking in our rooms, Walt and Deann called out from their door next to us. You can see lava! Sure enough, red streaks and bursts tumbled down the slopes in front of us. Each room had a patio from which one can view this awesome display from a close but safe distance. There was a red glow at the summit emanating from the crater. Those were some of the most memorable moments of this trip and of my life. We continued to watch as we ate dinner in their fine restaurant.
Adventure Life took care of everything! All we had to do was show up when we were supposed to, which made our first trip to Costa Rica largely stress-free and incredibly fun. Our trip reps, Hannah and Mariethony, were helpful and responsive, getting back to us by email usually within a few hours. Our accommodations were all great, and we got incredibly blessed with some absolutely stellar guides and drivers.
Our Jungle & Beach trip was an excellent balance of adventure and rest. We got to try out a lot of different activities, including snorkeling, hiking, white water rafting and kayaking, while also partaking of some rest around the pool or by the ocean. We enjoyed seeing and exploring the beautiful Caribbean side of the country.
Joy Knowles
1 week ago
The company made our adventure trip hassle-free, and a lot of fun! I will definitely be using them again
Carolena F
1 month ago
For our first trip to Costa Rica, Adventure Life designed a tour that meets the interests, ecological and adventure, of our party; but also takes into account our physical limitations sine we are all septuagenarian. We are looking forward to the trip.
John Zent
1 month ago
COSTA RICA a trip of a life time travelling round this beautiful country. All went like clockwork even when the weather was against us and all transfers seemed to be part of the holiday not a chore. Would definitely use Adventure Life again having previously used them 20 years ago!!
Cynthia Calton
1 month ago
Our Costa Rica trip was amazing! Kassandra planned everything and the excursions, hotels, overall organization were outstanding. Everything worked out smoothly, the excursions guides were knowledgeable allowing us to see so much of the fauna and flora of the country. The hotels were great as well, all in fantastic locations and with beautiful views.