Explore Costa Rica and the true meaning of "Pura Vida" with a local!

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 favourite 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 :)
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Trip Itinerary
1

Santa Ana

Day 1-2
Welcome meeting and a visit to a local farmers market for the best street breakfast with "cafe chorreado" and "pupusas or chorreadas" (curious eh?). We will be also buying fruit and veggie supplies! Today we will be heading to the Central Pacific and settle in our new home! On the way to Ojochal we will make a couple of stops so we can get our feet on the sand and say hello to our reptile friends in Tarcoles (from far away, do not worry).
2

Esterillos Beach

Day 2-3
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!
3

Ojochal

Day 3-4
It's time for one of our favourite 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 favourite beaches in Whales Bay. An included lunch in one of our favourite spots in the area (also pretty hidden). Viewpoints, laughs and good vibes do the rest!
4

Playa Hermosa

Day 4-5
Well, day 4 is about giving back to the community that I hosting us. How do we do that? We collaborate with a local NGO in different ways. We might clean a beach, paint a local school or teach some English to local kids. In return, we will get smiles, interaction with Ticos and might get a free yoga lesson - Who knows?
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 favourite Caribbean restaurant. We cannot let you go without trying this cuisine!
9

Santa Ana

Day 9-10
Today we say bye and it is always a sad moment by now you will be an expert in the "Pura Vida" ways and see life through a different lens. Until the next adventure!
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Apartments
10 days trip
Santa Ana, Esterillos Beach & 7 more
Transportation
Car
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