In preparation for her Costa Rica vacation, Kathleen eagerly read through travel guides for Costa Rica facts and information. She came up with this general description: “Costa Rica is the picture perfect vacation for nature lovers, surfers, and adventurers. Situated between the Caribbean and the Pacific Oceans, Costa Rica offers nearly 800 miles of a coastline peppered with funky beach towns, infamous surf spots, and natural reserves.”

Kathleen and Katy, two friends eager to start their Costa Rica travel adventure.

Among the many fabulous Costa Rica travel destinations, Puerto Viejo, on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, is the perfect embodiment of these characteristics. In her research, Kathleen found that Puerto Viejo and the surrounding villages remained relatively isolated from San Jose and the more developed parts of Costa Rica until the late 1970s, “without electricity or connecting roads.” This allowed for the development of a unique Afro-Caribbean community, heavily influenced by Jamaican migrant workers who settled in the region and created “a separate cultural space…free of modern developments and mass tourism.”

The completion of a paved road in the 1980s changed everything: “the secret was unleashed, and Puerto Viejo soon became prime relocation for Europeans, Canadians, and ex-pats looking for a warm spot to settle.”  During her Puerto Viejo travel, Kathleen observed that the diverse populations of locals and foreigners that inhabit the town “have congregated, turning Puerto Viejo into a unique hybrid community mixed by numerous cultures, languages, and foods.”

A typical street and storefront in laidback Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica.

What to see and do in Puerto Viejo

One of Puerto Viejo’s amenities is its excellent coffee, and Kathleen recommends the expat-owned Caribeans Coffee and Chocolate Factory for “the best coffee in town.” She noted that, “It is a quaint setup with ocean view, access to wireless, and a great vibe. With zero stress, seated oceanfront, surrounded by jungle green with an iced coffee in hand, I was starting to get the whole “Pura Vida” thing.”

She also recalls enjoying an excellent mid-day meal at Veronica’s Place: “The restaurant offers anything from coconut rice and beans to banana ice cream, and is a must go in Puerto Viejo. There are number of places for you to sample the Caribbean’s tasty take on the basic plate of “Gallo Pinto,” but Mi Sam is notably the best.”

Opportunities for excursions in the bountiful nature of Caribbean Costa Rica are virtually endless. These include: canopy walks, waterfalls, hiking, dolphin-watching, turtle-sighting, biking through fishing villages, kayaking, white water rafting, sport fishing, and snorkeling the coral reefs in places like Manzanillo, Cahuita National Park, and Puerto Vargas.

Kathleen recounts an anecdote from one of her Costa Rica vacation adventures: “We rented some bikes from a shop next to the hostel and took a ride to Punta Uva, a picturesque point with an impressive view of the coast. You can rent bikes at a number of places for a couple bucks, and they will gladly point you in the right direction. Along the way, we ventured through some jungle paths that led to hidden, turquoise-colored waters and white sand beaches, which seemed all too beautifully cliché to be real.”

Locals enjoying the beautiful Puerto Viejo beaches.

The biking adventure was complicated by “a pretty outrageous rainstorm,” a 3-hour session of pounding rain, typical in Costa Rica. “As the rains calmed, we caught a local soccer game on the side of the road. The field was in pretty poor condition, especially after the rains, but the kids and onlookers could not have cared less. As I stood watching, slightly irritated about the soak from the rainstorm, I was overwhelmed by the look of fun on the kids’ faces. It lightened my mood instantly, and officially set the tone for the rest of my travel: Pura Vida.”

The Puerto Viejo nightlife is another not-to-be-missed element of this Caribbean coast town: “For the last evening, we made our way to the strip of beachfront bars that double as makeshift discos by night.” Kathleen describes the crowd as “a mix of tough-pouring bartenders, locals, short-term travelers, and the ex-pats who now call Puerto Viejo home. To say the least, it was a perfectly wild last night filled by eclectic faces, funky beats, and a healthy dose of rum.”

After a week, Kathleen and her friends moved on to continue their Costa Rica vacation on the Pacific Coast, but Puerto Viejo left a lasting impression: “Between the picturesque beaches, funky coffee shops, hysterically fun nightlife, and fascinating hybrid community surrounding it, Puerto Viejo is a truly unique coastal town. Mixed by a rich cultural history with modern hippy-dippy twists, Puerto Viejo provides all its visitors a raw introduction to the effortless beauty of Caribbean Costa Rica.”

Puerto Viejo truly captures the effortless beauty of Costa Rica's beaches.

For more Costa Rica travel ideas, browse our Costa Rica For Less website and contact one of our expert travel advisors to start planning your own dream Costa Rica vacation.

Costa Rica is a destination like no other, from beaches and lush jungle, to volcanoes Costa Rica provides a plethora of landscapes. This little piece of paradise offers travelers the opportunity for any type of vacation – whether relaxing on  the beach to indulging in one of the many adventure activities, Costa Rica is a great destination for any traveler.

Riad is always up for an adventure, and Costa Rica provided him the perfect place to fulfill all his thrill seeking desires. From riding ATVs through Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes to bungee jumping, Riad has done it all. The adventures of our operations manager, from calm to crazy, can be found in this Costa Rica travel tale.

 Horseback riding

Riad horseback riding through Costa Rica.

A perfect way to view the scenery at any age, horseback riding was just one of the activities on Riad’s vacation. Being able to go on a group tour to one of the regions many waterfalls, Riad recommends a horseback riding tour for families, or people who want a peaceful outdoor activity.  He explained that this is definitely a calm activity, the horses are really well trained, having traveled this path many times, and it is a fun way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Four Wheeling: 

Riad hit the road on an ATV adventure in Costa Rica.

Another way to explore, and one of Riad’s favorite activities, was the ATV tour. A guide led his group through Costa Rica’s many terrains, including beaches, jungles, and mountains. One of his favorite memories from his trip was during the tour; “We were ATV riding, and we had the ocean to our right and this lush valley to our left. We are looking down on this waterfall, and the mist is slowly rising, and it truly felt like we were in an Amazon movie, it was incredible.” Riad highly suggests this if you like a little bit of adventure and want to explore Costa Rica in a unique way.

Zip-Lining:

The zip-lining tour took Riad above the tree tops of the Costa Rica jungle.

Flying above the treetops of the lush forests of Costa Rica, on a zip line tour, was another fond memory from Riad’s adventure vacation. Though the zip line tour wasn’t too crazy, at least for Riad’s tastes, he says it is a great way to get a view above the forests, while getting a little bit of a rush. For those who aren’t as seasoned in adventure activities, zip lining is a great way to add some thrill to your Costa Rica vacation.

Whitewater Rafting:

The group hitting the rapids on an exciting whitewater rafting tour.

An up close and personal experience in nature, whitewater rafting was one of Riad’s more adrenaline pumping activities. From Class II to IV rapids, beginners to experts alike can indulge in whitewater rafting, sure to get the heart racing. Riad had a great time on his tour; he was able to see a wide variety of fauna, birds, snakes, and even a few monkeys. The highlight of his rafting tour was when his group stopped and he and a few of his fellow raft mates climbed the rocks and jumped into the river; with the permission of his guide, of course.

Bungee Jumping:

Riad took the leap into the Costa Rica wilderness on his bungee jumping adventure!

Riad took his adventure trip to the next level by signing up to bungee jump, as the only male in the group of jumpers, Riad couldn’t back out. He watched all the women jump, and was the final one to take the leap. Riad gave us the play by play, “I stepped to the edge and looked over and knew I couldn’t back out, so I just took the leap, and did a superman dive off the platform.” He laughs as he offers some sage advice to those thinking about trying something so crazy, “don’t look down.” For Riad it was the ultimate adrenaline rush, and he definitely recommends it to travelers seeking a truly crazy and one of a kind experience.

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure of any kind, take some of Riad’s tips and mix in a little (or a lot) of adventure into your Costa Rica vacation; find many adventure activities in San Jose or on the coast in Jaco. The perfect destination for any traveler, check out more ideas of what to do on your Costa Rica vacation, and start planning today!

Red is for the sultry details of tango in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Red is for… the Argentine tango
There is no image that comes clearer to mind upon thought of an Argentina trip than the tango. The energetic but sultry dance was born and fostered in the fringe communities of the country’s magnificent capital, Buenos Aires, and its artistic influence has since spread across the world through all social levels. The moves are fast paced and the dancers’ attitudes are evocative, enchanting every audience member with the dance’s brash sensuality. Whether you choose to experience the heart of tango along La Boca, Buenos Aires’s old port, or in an unmarked milonga venue, you won’t soon forget the blurred whirl of the female’s classic red dress, shoes, and lipstick detail as she plays with her partner on the dance floor.

Orange is for the sweet sun setting on the landscape of the Atacama Desert in Chile.

Orange is for… sunset in the Atacama Desert of Chile
If there was ever a place to test your feeling of mortality, it would be the Atacama Desert of northern Chile. This is the driest place on earth with absolutely no record of any rain since recordkeeping began more than 500 years ago. Standing in the middle of this vast desert composed of salt basins, sand, and the occasional hardy vegetation, you’ll want to clutch your water bottle tightly with newfound appreciation for every drop. This otherworldly landscape includes the dramatic Moon Valley and its stunning natural formations that champion out of the barren land around it. At sunset, however, you will forget for a moment the desert’s forsaking circumstance as the orange of the sky enhances every pore of the rocky surface, seeming as if existence itself is going to sleep for the night.

Yellow is for the glorious rays of the Costa Rican sun that blesses the entire country.

Yellow is for… the brilliant sunrays of Costa Rica
The sun defines Costa Rica. Without it, the paradise of tropical beaches would lose their essence, the mist of the jungles would linger less mystifyingly, and the massive volcanoes dotting the land would have less aesthetic faces to show throughout the passage of a day. Thankfully, the brilliant yellow rays persist, helping to showcase the country in all its glory. Whether you wish to kayak in one of Costa Rica’s many rapids, trek the impressive Arenal Volcano, party up in the capital of San José, or discover the unique microclimate of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the feel and illumination of the sun and its cycles will mark your Costa Rica holiday memories.

Green is for the lush natural wonders of the Pantanal wetlands in Brazil.

Green is for… the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil
A more obvious green point would be the Amazon Rainforest that covers most of South America, but the less frequented freshwater Brazilian Pantanal has well earned its reputation as well. Located in the southwestern state of Mato Grosso do Sol, the large reserve continues to spread into Bolivia and Paraguay as well. The wetland foliage’s gradient of green hues is beautiful to behold, and a boat excursion as part of your Brazil vacation package will take you on the crisp waters for an even more intimate exploration of the Pantanal. Delight in the exotic animals that hide in the verdant foliage and perhaps even spot a jaguar!

Blue is for the stark ripples and reflections of Lake Titicaca in Peru.

Blue is for… the waters of Lake Titicaca in Peru
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigatable lake in the world, can be approached from the Bolivian side as well, but the Puno gateway in Peru remains the more popular access point. From Puno, meander along the waterside, or take a boat tour to one of the reed islands such as Amantaní and Taquile where some traditional families still call home. A most spectacular time to see the lake is during the afternoon barrage of sunlight when the blues of the serene ripples shine brightest.

Purple is for the deep but light chicha morada juice so ubiquitously found throughout Lima, Peru.

Purple is for… chicha morada in Lima, Peru
Lima was once the capital of the Spanish empire in South America and it continues to stand today as a living reminder of colonial history as well as catalyst of contemporary culture. One new reputation the Peruvian metropolis has enjoyed is its status as the gastronomic capital of the Americas. From intimidating platters of ceviche (the national dish of raw seafood marinated in lime juice and spices) to the succulent sandwiches found streetside, dining in Lima is nothing short of an adventure in and of itself. In the end, wash it all down with a chilled glass of dark purple chicha morada, a non-alcoholic corn drink that dates to eras predating even the legendary Inca Empire. Cheers!

Black is for the rich, sleek skin of the sea lions that call the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador their home.

Black is for… the smooth skin of the Galapagos sea lions of Ecuador
To spice up your Ecuador travel plans, fly out to the Galapagos Islands to feel as if you’re an explorer of the old days. As you embark on your Galapagos cruise, admire the vast diversity of wildlife that populate this remote archipelagos, which includes but by no means is limited to its iconic sea lions, ancient sea turtles, marine iguanas, lava lizards, penguins, various colored boobies, and creatures deep underwater such as sharks, rays, dolphins, eels, and more. Finally, of course, you will be able to watch the local finches flit back and forth, the very birds who helped to inspire Charles Darwin and the development of his theory of evolution.

White is for the pristine emptiness of the vast Salar de Uyuni salt lake of Bolivia.

White is for… the Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia
Within Bolivia’s quieter personality lies the conspicuous Salar de Uyuni salt flat, a must-see destination for any Bolivia tour or South America trip. It is the largest of its kind on earth, and the panoramas here will be unlike anything you have ever seen before. A driving expedition will take you into the core of the 4,085-square-mile salt lake where the visage of this alien landscape seemingly extends endlessly into infinity. After a rain, Uyuni becomes the grandest natural mirror in existence when the reflected sky fuses seamlessly with the horizon and the terrain. If you are lucky and come in the right season on your Bolivia vacation, you might even get to see the local flamingoes that breed in this surreal plain.

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Costa Rica is like heaven on earth for most travelers. Magnificent sandy beaches, tropical waters, and lush national parks filled with exotic flora and fauna, are only a few of the country’s many attractions. This year, Costa Rica is evern more in the spotlight as it has been ranked in the top “happiest places in the world” by both the New Economic Foundation and the Gallup World Index of The World Happiest Countries.

Costa Rica, between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offers variety to suit every vacationer's dream.

If this is not reason enough for you to visit Costa Rica, maybe you’ll want to enter the race to win an all inclusive week-long trip for your family. Recently launched by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, this gigantic ad campaign titled Costa Rica’s Million Dollar Gift of Happiness is sure to make many very happy travelers. From October 6, 2011, to February 5, 2012, all citizens of the United States and Canada are welcomed to enter the run and get a chance to win a spectacular Costa Rica vacation!

The winners will have the opportunity to choose between a selection of themed-vacations, from adventure, family, and culture, to romantic and nature. Check out Costa Rica’s official Facebook page and to learn more about this exciting contest.

Check out some of the best Costa Rica destinations!

What would you like to see on your Costa Rica holiday? This extraordinary country has something to offer to each and every visitorone. Whether you like relaxing on the beach and basking in the sun, or you enjoy wildlife and hiking in sumptuous natural reserves, you can’t find a more delightful destination. Even if you’re not part of the happy few that will win a free trip, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Is this isn't paradise, what is?

Playa del Coco: This tiny country nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean is home to many of the world’s most stunning beaches. Playa del Coco, located near the Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste region, is among the most well-known beaches in Costa Rica. It’s the ideal spot for sports activities such as surfing, diving, andor sport fishing. But it’s also perfect for those who like to take it easy on their vacation, as they’ll delight in the great variety of hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs available.

Monteverde Cloud Forest: As the Nnumber one destination for eco-tourism in Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Natural Reserve is dotted with spectacular wildlife and untouched forests. Located above the charming small towns that line the coast of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a world of nature and exotic species. This the perfect place for nature hikes in search of monkeys, birds, and many more species. The best way to explore the reserve is start from the small village of Santa Elena, where travelers will find an array of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities available.

Costa Rica absolutely teems with exotic wildlife.

Manuel Antonio National Park: Located just south of Quepos on the Pacific Coast, and about 132 kilometers from the capital, San Jose, the magnificent Manuel Antonio National Park is probably the greatest in the country for all nature lovers. Expansive white sandy beaches, crystalline waters, and evergreen forests make the park one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica. Hundreds of species of birds and mammals can be witnessed in the various natural habitats that comprise the reserve. Visit some of the park’s 12 islands and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot some dolphins or even a whale!

For nature lovers and lovers of beauty, there's no better place to find happiness than in Costa Rica.

As Costa Rica grows in popularity, pre-planning your trip becomes more important. You’ll always find an available hostel bed—or two trees to string your hammock between—but if you’re looking for US-style accommodations (think: hot water bath tubs, English language cable TV, hearty breakfasts, spas) and top-tier tours (think: best locations, best guides, best safety records), it is time to get your show on the road!

Forget that September is the month of back-to-school-ness, no white after Labor Day, and the reluctant acceptance that cold weather is just around the corner—September is when you need to start thinking about your winter vacation! Do you want to spend your December in wooly socks shuffling around your living room blowing on your hands to keep them warm and looking longingly at travel magazines? Or do you want to be sporting a ridiculously vibrant t-shirt (Hawaiian print featuring neon orange, perhaps?) and be flying through tropical treetops, high-fiving sloths as you immerse yourself in one of the most biologically rich places on the planet?

I’m assuming you chose the latter, so here are 3 incredibly awesome Costa Rica activities to inspire you to start your trip planning ASAP.

Wildlife Watching.

As one of the most biologically concentrated areas in the world, Costa Rica is a great place to see critters you’d usually only see in the zoo. These spider monkeys are the smallest in Central America and most commonly seen in Manuel Antonio National Park. Three other types of monkeys also call Costa Rica home: the white-faced capuchin (most common), the howler monkey (loudest), and the spider monkey (long limbed). Also, remember to keep your eye to the sky, because over 850 brightly-colored types of birds flutter around Costa Rica. Photo by Flickr user smooshmasterflex.

Zip Lining & Canopy Tour.

Taking a zip line or canopy tour in Costa Rica allows you to really appreciate the power of the jungle. Over 30% of Costa Rica is protected in a reserve or national park, and many of these areas include lush jungle and cloud forests. Though spectacular from the ground, taking to the air ups the ante. If you want to spot canopy-dwelling wildlife like toucans, consider a tour that incorporates treetop walkways along with a few zip lines, allowing you to leisurely explore this unique habitat. If you have a need for speed, choose an adrenaline-pumping zip line tour that lets you zoom hundreds of feet above the ground and whisk between the trees. One of the best places to take a zip line tour is in Monteverde. Photo by Flickr user katedubya.

Volcano Hiking & Hot Spring Soaking.

Thanks to the active Arenal Volcano, visitors to Costa Rica get spectacular lava night shows and soothing hot springs for soaking. Located in northwestern Costa Rica, the volcano is surrounded by Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal as well as multiple hot springs and waterfalls. Guided tours take you close to the lava during day-long hikes, while at night you can choose to soak in some of the most beautiful hot springs in Central America. Photo by Flickr user Ardyiii.

If you’re tempted to start planning a Costa Rica vacation, contact one of our expert travel advisors.

Located a mere 450 miles (725 km) from the southern tip of the world, Eolo Lodge is a drop of refinement clinging to the wild, rugged steppe of Argentina’s Patagonia. The 17 room estancia-style lodge is fitted with a whitewashed exterior that matches the distant ice capped peaks, but blazes defiantly against the 9,885 acres (4,000 hectares) of burnished La Anita Valley landscape. Large windows offer astonishing views of the desolate landscape, but to truly appreciate the sweeping isolation, hop on a horse, gallop across the void and experience a real Patagonia travel adventure.

Argentina, El Calafate: Eolo

2. Peru, Puno: Casa Andina Isla Suasi

Isla Suasi, a private island ringed by the pristine waters of Lake Titicaca, tempts visitors with its stunning scenery, lulling isolation, and five star eco-resort. Casa Andina Private Collection Isla Suasi, the only accommodation on this serene island, is an indulgent treat of rustic luxury, outdoor adventure, and culinary delight. Its 24 rooms contain cloud-like beds, wood burning fireplaces, and panoramic lake views. Cozy up under the covers, meanderer the cobblestone courtyards, or explore the rugged island outskirts; wherever you go, the view will follow. Explore this spectacular region in style on your Lake Titicaca tour.

Peru, Puno: Casa Andina Isla Suasi

3. Chile, San Pedro de Atacama: Alto Atacama Desert Lodge

The Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth, but don’t let that stop you from visiting Alto Atacama Desert Lodge, because its barren, rain-deprived landscape is one of the most stunning and humbling places in the world. The Lodge is so skillfully designed that it seems to merge with the rust-colored Salt Mountain Range, concealing the hotel’s interior modern luxury.

Chile, San Pedro de Atacama: Alto Atacama Lodge

4. Ecuador, Baños: Luna Runtun

No place is better for soaking up the scenery in Baños, Ecuador, than Hotel Luna Runtun. The picturesque mountaintop cottage complex faces the mighty Tungurahua Volcano and the verdant Llanganates National Park. Lavish pools and spas carved into the cliff overlook the town below, creating the elevated aura of a Mount Olympus playground with Greek god guests lounging in luxury. Enhance your Ecuador vacation with a stay at this excellent hotel.

Ecuador, Baños: Luna Runtun

5. Brazil, Ilha Grande: Pousada Naturalia

Surrounded by lush rainforest and lapping azul waters, a stay at Pousada Naturalia Hotel is like accepting a hug from Mother Nature. Bask on your balcony or lounge in your hammock and remind yourself that the tranquil island’s scenery isn’t a postcard, it’s real.

Brazil, Ilha Grande: Pousada Naturalia

6. Peru, Machu Picchu: Sanctuary Lodge

Machu Picchu. Need we say more? One of the 7 New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is the most spectacular historical destination in South America. Secluded and separated from modern development by a laborious trek and imposing mountain peaks, the site remains as impressive now as it was decades ago. Only one hotel, the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, neighbors the citadel. Several rooms have mountain views and show a sliver of the site, but the real attraction is the ability to linger at the ruins before, and long after, everyone else is gone.

Peru, Machu Picchu: Sanctuary Lodge

7. Costa Rica, Arenal: Arenal Observatory Lodge

Experience a bedroom eruption like none other at Arenal Observatory Lodge, one of the most luxurious Arenal hotels. Here guests can lounge in bed and admire the active Arenal Volcano, just two miles from the hotel, as it seeps glowing lava and puffs black smoke.  Now that’s hot.

Costa Rica, Arenal: Arenal Observatory Lodge

8. Peru, Puno: Libertador Lake Titicaca

Watch the sun creep over the horizon and crawl across the calm waters of the highest navigable lake in the world, turning the already vibrantly-colored waters into a sparkling sapphire sea. Hotel Libertador rests on the shore of Isla Esteves on Lake Titicaca. Its 123 rooms are all luxurious with elegant décor, but no man-made design can compare to the natural display flaunted just outside the panoramic windows.

Peru, Puno: Libertador Lake Titicaca

9. Argentina, Iguazú Falls: Sheraton

Guests at the Sheraton Iguazú Resort can marvel at the mighty Iguazú Falls, hear its roaring torrent, and almost taste the spray, all without leaving their room. Tucked inside the Iguazú National Park, this large and luxurious hotel is only a mile from the waterfalls and walking distance from all of the park’s exciting attractions.

Argentina, Iguazú Falls: Sheraton

10. Peru, Colca Canyon: Colca Lodge

At Colca Lodge, a glance out your window is a time machine back to ancient times. Situated in a river valley ringed by pre-Inca agricultural terraces, this luxurious nature-inspired lodge is an ideal place to experience an exciting Colca Canyon tour. Relax in natural hot springs and admire how the hotel’s adobe walls, thatched roofs, and stone pathways harmonize with the agrarian landscape.

Peru, Colca Canyon: Colca Lodge

For help planning a Latin America vacation to one of these spectacular locations, contact a Latin America For Less travel advisor.

Costa Rica is often considered one of the most environmentally friendly countries, with more than 27% of its land protected by wildlife refuges, biological reserves, and national parks. Costa Rica is smaller than West Virginia, but offers a surprisingly diverse range of ecosystems and activities. Coral-lined beaches, active volcanoes, and cloud forests characterize this beautiful country which surfers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure addicts alike can enjoy on a Costa Rica vacation.

Green vegetation surrounds this picturesque stream in Monteverde

While this tiny nation draws over 1.5 million visitors every year, no efforts are spared to protect nature and its wonders. The number one destination offering eco-friendly travel opportunities, Monteverde, is located in the northern region of the Puntarenas province in the Cordillera de Tilarán. Monteverde, or “Green Mountain”, is home to the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

Monteverde’s settlement dates back to the 1930s when a few “Tico” – Costa Ricans’ nickname – families left the gold-mining settlement of Juntas, and headed up the mountain to try their hand at logging and farming. In 1949, four Quakers were jailed in Alabama for their refusal to be drafted into the Korean War. They were eventually released from prison, but in response 44 Quakers from 11 families left the United States for greener grass – namely Monteverde. The Quakers adopted a simple life of dairy farming and cheese production in the cool mountain climate. Monteverde remains a Quaker dairy farming community which produces some of the finest cheeses in Costa Rica. Don’t leave without sampling some of their tasty treats!  In appreciation of watershed above the 1500-hectacre plot in Monteverde, the Quaker community agreed to preserve the mountaintop rainforests.

When ecologists investigated the preserve, they discovered that the cloud forests were actually two different ecosystems that straddled both sides of the Continental Divide. As a result of the temperature differential between the Santa Elena and Monteverde Reserves, each of the ecosystems boasts several distinct species.  In 1983, National Geographic featured an article stating the area as the best place to view Central America’s famous quetzal bird. Quakers were shocked when hordes of tourists arrived, and in response, lobbied to stop developers from paving the roads. As of today only dirt roads lead to Monteverde, while the local community continues to fight against the threat of overdevelopment.

Monteverde is a 4-hour journey from Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose. The best time to go depends on your personal interests. Consider visiting this lush area during Monteverde Music Festival, between January and February. The best time for bird watching is February through May when flocks of birds migrate and nest in the area. Prices may be lower during May to November, as it is rainy season and hiking opportunities are lessened.

Cleverly placed bird feeders on our Hummingbird Tour give you a chance to observe them in action

Many travelers come to the reserve to see big mammals living in the wild, such as jaguars, ocelots, and tapirs. These sights are fairly rare; however you are bound to see other captivating plants and animals. Monkeys, sloths, and birds will whisk by overhead, while you may have to look more carefully for miniature orchids which are no more than a millimeter or two across and can be found along hiking trails in the reserve. Another way to experience the local flora and fauna is on a skywalk or rappelling canopy tour.

From organic farming to alternative energy sources, Monteverde works hard to balance environmentally conscious thinking with tourism. You don’t have to be a Quaker or an environmental biologist to appreciate one of the few places left on the planet where the human footprint is kept to a minimum.

To plan an eco-friendly vacation in beautiful Costa Rica contact one of our expert travel advisors who can help customize your travel plans.

The striking Rio Celeste Waterfall. Photo courtesy of Hortense Soulier.

If you want to get away from the crowds, you should make a small detour to the Tenorio Volcano National Park, located in the northwestern part of the country not far from La Fortuna. This often-forgotten park is a true oasis of nature, and holds astonishing sights that will leave you speechless.

Perhaps the most spectacular of these natural wonders is Rio Celeste, a river situated in the heart of the Tenorio National Park, and one of Costa Rica’s prime secret spots. In the past, travelers tended to bypass the park because of its remote location and the previous lack of adequate public transportation. More often than not travel guides didn’t even mention the location which also contributed to its lack of popularity.

Even today there is only one way to reach Rio Celeste and that is from the Rio Celeste Lodge. This small, unattractive construction lost in the rainforest, with its rustic rooms, can hardly be called a lodge. However, if you are ready to leave comfort aside for one night, you will not regret it. With better access and more travelers visiting, the lodge is progressively improving its infrastructure. The lodge’s charming owner will invite you to join his family for a typical local dinner before you head out on your hike to Rio Celeste the next morning.

Rio Celeste is known for its magnificent turquoise color, almost artificial looking, which comes from a natural blend of water and various minerals from the ground (for the chemists out there, the mix comes from sulfur from the volcanic activity and calcium carbonate). This otherwise ordinary river suddenly turns into a magical light blue stream before precipitating into a striking waterfall.

A trek to Rio Celeste involves a pleasant, yet somewhat challenging hike through the cool rainforest of the Tenorio Volcano National Park. The four-hour hike to and from the Rio Celeste Waterfall is sprinkled with astonishing views. Admire the blue lagoon, a natural pool filled with turquoise water, and los Tenideros, where the water suddenly takes on a striking sky-blue color, and any number of natural hot springs located along the banks of the rivers.

The beautiful Laguna Azul. Photo courtesy of Hortense Soulier.

The trail then stumbles onto the great Rio Celeste Waterfall, one of the most beautiful sights in all of Costa Rica. Descend the steep stairs that take you to the bottom of the waterfall, and just take in the enchanting beauty of the scene for a while before getting back onto the trail.

Legend has it that when the world’s creator painted the skies, he dipped his paint brush into the river, giving it its striking light blue hue. Biologists still haven’t been able to determine the effects of the combination of minerals, so it is recommended not to swim in these waters, although some do at their own risk. You can take a swim a little further away where the water regains its clarity, and enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot springs.

The amazing sceneries of Rio Celeste are definitely a must-see for travelers to Costa Rica, and are certainly worth the little extra effort. This is truly one of the most magical places in the country, if not in the world. Don’t miss out on one of nature’s amazing wonders while it is still a relatively unknown tourist attraction.

For more Costa Rica travel opportunities and information, contact a Costa Rica For Less travel advisor.