Explore Costa Rica and the true meaning of "Pura Vida" with a local! (Guided Trip) ☀️

Hosted by

Ricardo

Guided trip
👋 Hello there! My name is Ricardo, I'm originally from Venezuela, but life has been generous and allowed me to live in many countries on this beautiful planet. I have spent several years living in Costa Rica, travelling all over the country, getting to know the local culture, experiencing the slow pace of life and happiness of the "Ticos", and now I would like to share it with you! It is not a coincidence that Costa Rica has been recognized many times as the happiest country in the world. What is the secret formula that makes this little Central American country an oasis of peace & happiness? Is it simply because of its natural beauty and the fact it has no army since 1948? Maybe having access to the Pacific and the Atlantic oceans + enviable weather conditions may also have something to do with that? It might even be because they have the freshest/tastiest fruit and some of the best coffee in the world! We believe it is the combination of these facts and having the friendliest people we have come across - You can never get tired of "Tico's" smiles and their favorite phrase: “Pura Vida”. Join me and discover the true meaning of “Pura Vida” by talking to the locals at a Sunday farmer's market, swimming in hidden waterfalls and walking virgin beaches surrounded by rainforest or just having a relaxed conversation over a freshly-made cup of coffee. Go white-water rafting in the cleanest river in Central America, learn about coffee production at an eco-farm in the central Valley and witness the majestic Arenal Volcano while hiking with a local guide. We will make sure you also have the chance to practise yoga, learn the basics of surfing and give something back to the community by taking part in activities organized by local NGO’s. Sunsets, fauna & flora and connecting with like-minded people are some other ingredients we will be adding to the mix. 🌴 Bienvenidos a Costa Rica! 💰 What do we include in this experience: 1. Friendly, knowledgeable and local host Your first point of contact with the local culture and your guide throughout this adventure! 2. Accommodation Eight nights of comfy, fully equipped and conveniently located accommodation. You will be able to cook and do your laundry in our selected houses (shared and private rooming options available). 3. Private transport throughout the experience We try and minimize the use of our van during the experience. Walking, cycling and surfing are way cooler than driving! 4. Advice on your “pre and post-experience” arrangements Just hit me, and I'll be more than happy to help you :) Are you ready for this experience? Send me a message 📬
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Trip Itinerary
1

Santa Ana

Day 1-2
Welcome to Costa Rica! Today we will meet at your hotel in the town of Santa Ana (west of San Jose). After you settle in, we will go for a relaxed walk and get to know each other. An included dinner at my favorite Caribbean place is all we have planned for the evening. Pura Vida!
2

Playa Hermosa

Day 2-3
Today we will make our way to the southern Pacific. During this 5.5-hour drive, we will make a couple of stops to casually see some wild crocodiles and get lunch with an ocean view. On arrival, we will drop off our stuff and then head to a local beach to go for a swim and hopefully catch the sunset!
3

Dominical Beach

Day 3-4
Today is an introduction to the art of "Pura Vida". Slow breakfast, a chat with your fellow explorers, a walk on the sand, a swim in the Pacific and an included surf lesson or yoga session, music & sunset and some ceviche are some of our ideas. Let's start easy!
4

Ojochal

Day 4-5
It's time for one of our favorite things to do - Visiting hidden waterfalls. Our van will take us to little villages like Uvita and Ojochal, where bumpy roads will lead us to film-like waterfalls. Fresh and cool water surrounded by the rain-forest...can you beat that? In between waterfalls, we might stop at some of our favorite beaches in Whales Bay. An included lunch in one of our favorite spots in the area (also pretty hidden). Viewpoints, laughs and good vibes do the rest!
5

Savegre de Aguirre

Day 5-6
What about rafting in Central America's cleanest river? It does not get much better than this. Be ready for an adrenaline rush that departs from Manuel Antonio; a wildlife sanctuary where monkeys, sloths, macaws, toucans and many other animals live in harmony. This full-day activity also includes a delicious lunch in a magic environment! Expect a very professional team with you and all the gear to make this an unforgettable experience.
6

Arenal Volcano

Day 6-7
Today we leave our home in the Central Pacific and make our way to the Arenal volcano area. It's a travel day, but we will make it easy with some stops. A night hot springs session might be a good idea to relax. Otherwise, rest and be ready for tomorrow.
7

Arenal Volcano

Day 7-8
Since it is our only full day here, we must explore! A local guide, born and raised, will show us the natural secrets of the area. The Arenal volcano is active and until a few years ago, you could see lava flowing down its walls; it is now dormant but still spectacular. Optional tours are available if you still have energy after our hike.
8

Atenas

Day 8-9
Time to say bye to Arenal and head back to San Jose. However, we will be stopping at a family-owned coffee farm run on the principles of sustainability (included lunch). A truly unique experience! Once in the city, we will freshen up at our accommodation before heading for a farewell dinner at our favorite Caribbean restaurant. We cannot let you go without trying this cuisine!
9

Santa Ana

Day 9-10
Today we say bye; this sour-sweet moment means our adventure is over. By now you will be an expert in the "Pura Vida" ways and see life through a different lens. I can only hope you take great memories with you and that we meet again. Until the next adventure!
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Apartments & Hotel
10 days trip
Santa Ana, Playa Hermosa & 7 more
Transportation
Car
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