The transfer to Arenal was billed as the "ride of our lives" by William and indeed took us down some of the bumpiest roads in the country, and then onto a ferry for the last 30 minutes. It was great to see the volcano getting closer and closer and more spectacular as we crossed the lake. We could see smoke coming from the crater and even William was excited to find out what Arenal was going to show us over the next few days.
Before we had checked in to our room we spent two amazing hours on the observation deck, watching the clouds clear to reveal the volcano in all its glory. From what people were saying we timed our arrival well, it hadn't been this clear in a long time.
Huge rocks were falling at regular intervals, breaking up noisily as the fell. At the same time, colourful birds were feeding in the gardens. Sometimes we didn't know where to look next: at the volcano, down to the lake, at the birds or at the Howler Monkeys in the trees...we almost forgot we were waiting for our room.
When we did go to our room we found it was more than worth the wait. Ruth actually shed a tear or two as she (and I) felt so lucky and happy to be staying somewhere this special. The view of the volcano from our balcony was just as good, if not better than from the observation deck - Marissa had done us proud requesting what was surely the best room at AOL (25).
It was time to find out what else there was to see in the AOL grounds so we walked the forest trail down to the waterfall - a spectacular view awaited us there, sunlight illuminating the water in another magical setting.
Dinner was a very satisfying buffet while we watched rocks glowing bright orange as they thundered down, before clouds covered the volcano for much of the night.
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.