Embarking on the G Adventures’ Costa Rica Adventure tour was an unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures.
Here’s a detailed account of my experience:
Arrival in San José
I arrived in San José on the first day, where we had our welcome meeting followed by a group dinner. Eager to start the adventure, we headed to bed early in anticipation of the days ahead.
Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park
We traveled to Quepos, the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park. The beach here became my favourite of the entire trip, and one of the best I’ve ever visited. The lush green jungle seamlessly meets the stunning blue waters, creating a picturesque setting. Wildlife is abundant, with playful monkeys adding to the charm. We also explored the local town and markets. While I didn’t participate in the Manuel Antonio Catamaran Tour, it looked like a fantastic experience that I would recommend.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Next, we ventured to Monteverde, renowned for its cloud forests. Here, I experienced the hanging bridges and embarked on the exhilarating zip line. Notably, Monteverde has the longest zip line in Latin America, stretching 1,590 meters (over 5,220 feet).
La Fortuna
In La Fortuna, our group bonded over a lively karaoke night. The area offers a huge range of activities. I recommend consulting with your tour leader to choose the best options tailored to your interests, as they possess invaluable insights from their experiences. I personally went on a hike and it was stunning as expected.
Sarapiquí Rainforest
Our stay in the Sarapiquí Rainforest was a highlight. Disconnected from the digital world, we indulged in card games and deepened our group connections. A memorable cooking demonstration had us crafting empanadas, adding a delicious touch to our adventure.
Tortuguero
Tortuguero, accessible only by boat, offered a unique experience as we navigated its waterways, spotting diverse wildlife along the journey. While the town is quaint and quickly explored, a hike through the local park to a hilltop provided breathtaking views.
Regarding turtle sightings, it’s essential to approach this activity ethically. Some practices can be intrusive to the turtles, so I recommend discussing with your tour leader to ensure responsible viewing (seasonal).
Puerto Viejo
Our final destination was Puerto Viejo, a vibrant beach town reminiscent of Byron Bay vibes. The Biking excursion was a standout, offering a scenic way to explore the area. A visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center was enlightening; their dedication to wildlife conservation is commendable. Fun fact: Zac Efron visited this centre during the filming of his documentary “Down to Earth.”
Final Thoughts
This tour is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts, offering sightings of sloths, monkeys, and more in their natural habitats. Experiencing both the Pacific and Caribbean sides of Costa Rica provided a comprehensive understanding of the country’s diverse ecosystems and cultures.
Tips for Future Travelers
- Wildlife Viewing: Always prioritise ethical practices. Consult with your tour leader to ensure any wildlife interactions are respectful and sustainable.
- Activity Selection: With numerous options available, leverage your tour guide’s expertise to choose activities that align with your interests and energy levels.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities and traditions. The cooking demonstration in Sarapiquí was a personal favorite, offering a hands-on cultural experience.
Fun fact: It’s illegal to take photos with animals here. When photographing wildlife, make sure no humans are in the shot. This law helps protect animals from being exploited for tourism.
Embarking on the Costa Rica Adventure with G Adventures was a journey filled with natural beauty, thrilling activities, and cultural insights. It’s an experience I’d highly recommend to anyone seeking a comprehensive and enriching exploration of Costa Rica.
View tour here: Costa Rica Adventure
Planning a trip to Costa Rica? If you would like to read more about my trip for more tips, you can see all my Central America & Caribbean blogs here.
