For many people, cruising is the preferred method of exploring the Caribbean. You can enjoy leisurely days at port, experiencing a new town or beach every day, while only having to unpack once. All your transport is taken care of, there are plentiful excursions to enjoy and someone else handles all the logistics. What many people don’t realize – or at least what I didn’t realize -  is that you can also explore Costa Rica this way. Star Clippers recently added two Costa Rica itineraries to their small-ship cruises and I was invited to come aboard and check out their offerings.

The Star Clippers sailing vessels are nothing like the ships you’ll see in the Caribbean. For starters, they aren’t traditional cruise ships, they’re working sailing vessels. The ship that currently plys the waters off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica is the Star Flyer, which holds about 170 passengers, so it’s not exactly the floating mall you might associate with your average cruise. Six and seven night cruises visit northern Costa Rica and Nicaragua or southern Costa Rica and Panama, departing from Puerto Caldera, a tiny port town about two hours by car from San Jose.

The seven night Costa Rica and Nicaragua itinerary includes one day at sea as the ship makes its way from Puerto Caldera to the sleepy surf town of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. There, passengers can choose from a range of excursions that include a day trip to Granada and a visit to the Masaya volcano. Or, they can simply explore the town, hit the beach or arrange their own activities, like horseback riding or surf lessons.

From there it’s on to another beach town, this one popular with surfers and expats, and blessed with a dark sandy beach that gives the town its name – Playa del Coco. A main drag bisects the beach, with both areas lined with souvenir shops, tour outfitters, and inexpensive  bars and restaurants. Sample some ceviche or kick back with a local Imperial beer, which goes for about $2. Many passengers on the ship choose to linger here, while others go white-water rafting or ziplining through the canopy.

The next stop is Santa Rosa, Costa Rica’s oldest National Park. Guests who aren’t taking the guided walk of the park can hop in a zodiac and be ferried to the shores of an empty dark sand beach. Here the Star Flyer is often the only ship on the horizon, as there’s not much to the beach aside from a few ramshackle houses and thousands of shells strewn along the shoreline. One of the benefits of a small ship cruise is the ability to go places where larger ships simply can’t.

After Santa Rosa, the ship continues south to Samara where guests can choose from a kayaking adventure or a coffee tour, and then it’s on to Isla Tortugua, a private island that serves as a day playground for locals and tourists who come to swim and snorkel in the crystal clear water, lounge on the sand with a cold beer, or go for a hike or horseback ride through the jungle. At noon, the ship’s crew sets up a massive lunch spread on shore and takes small groups out to a rock formation for snorkeling. On shore, you can also book banana-boat rides and jet ski rentals. On the final day of the cruise, the ship returns to Puerto Caldera early in the morning.

Because the itinerary is so new (Star Clippers has been cruising Costa Rica since November, 2010), there are still some kinks to work out. Our group was the first to be ferried directly to the beach at Santa Rosa; previous groups were tendered into town and then walked 45 minutes to the beach. On day five, on which we were supposed to go on a coffee tour, large swells made getting onto the tenders too dangerous and our day in port became a second day at sea. Luckily, the Star Flyer offers plenty of activities on board, like nature lectures, organized nightly entertainment and games, mast-climbing, spa treatments and full library of DVDs for when you just need to relax in your cabin.

Despite a few hiccups, I would recommend cruising as an alternative way to see more locations in Costa Rica in a shorter amount of time. Because the roads in the country tend to be of the nausea-inducing twisty variety, it can take a long time to get from place to place. On a cruise like this, you’re able to see smaller towns and national parks while transitioning from place to place each night. The downside for night owls of course is that you miss out on seeing a town’s nightlife, but if nature, relaxation and luxurious accommodations are your primary concerns, a Star Clippers cruise can help you see Costa Rica in comfort and style, without the crowds found on a larger cruise ship.

What you need to know

Length of cruise - 6-7 days, depending on which itinerary you choose
Dates of availability - November to March
Number of passengers - 170
Ports of call - (on northern cruise) San Juan del Sur, Playa del Coco, Santa Rosa, Samara, Isla Tortuga
Days at sea - One planned, though the schedule is subject to change due to weather
On board activities - Two pools, fitness classes, library/DVDs, snorkeling, waterskiing, nightly entertainment, nature lectures, sailing instruction, spa, engine room tours, Captain’s story time
Costs – starting at $1875 per person, not including alcohol, flights, and $215 in port charges

Disclaimer – Star Clippers hosted me on the cruise, but my opinions are my own.

Original article can be found here: See Costa Rica by Cruise

I’ll never forget the stories I heard from a guy I met in a hostel who had rented a motorcycle in Canada. Yes, the guy had rented a motorcycle in Canada and rode it all the way to Costa Rica. But, his trip wasn’t ending there! He actually had plans of going as far South as he possibly could go. The guy had some awesome stories. Come to find out, a lot of bike enthusiasts make this sort of trip in some form or fashion. If I was a biker, I know I would. If you are an experienced biker or just interested in a more organized sort of motorcycle trip around Costa Rica, this list should help you out. This is includes both guided and self guided motorcycle trips and rentals.

Moto Adventures

If you are looking for a custom fit, off road adventure that takes on some of the most versatile trails available, visit with founder and principal guide, Larry Larrabure. In a country rich in rain forest, jungle areas, and volcanic mountains, Larry and his expert crew will escort you on a motorcycle tour certain to satisfy the daring spirit. The off road itinerary comes in one, two, or three day tours, and features the likes of a 12,000 feet high ride through cloud-blanketed forests. Though sharing locations, the adventure tours are mostly smooth, blacktop riding. Gear up and ride through the scenic Central Valley region, along the Pacific beach line, through the coffee plantations, and then visit the volcano of your choice. As some of the tours include accommodations and food, the tour pricing is variable and sometimes costly. All MotoAdventures motorcycles are well maintained, and the guide knows his stuff. You can contact them at MotoAdventures Inc., USA Phone 440-256-8508.

Costa Rica Motorcycle Tours

This family owned business will personalize your tour. Here you will meet a knowledgeable staff of trained professionals, all intimately acquainted with the Costa Rica landscape. After helping you plan and budget a tour that reflects your expectations, they will set you up on a well-maintained and carefully selected motorcycle. The tours are “Easy Rider” style: paved roads. You travel along the Pacific Coast, reside in bungalows, and experience the Arenal Volcano. Costa Rica Motorcycle Tours strives to avoid technical riding. The accommodations are user-friendly, bed and breakfast lodges along with select off the mainstream hotels. The tours are not forced escorted, but rates are reasonable to what value you receive. Full tours include airport pickup and coach ride, motorcycle rental, accommodations, and breakfast. Your contact information is: P.O. Box 2907-1000, San José, Costa Rica, Telephone: (506)2225-6000.

Moto Tours Costa Rica

Wayne and R.J. Faddis have a passion for motorcycling. As long time off-road riders, they know the joy of a good adventure. They pick their equipment with care, and they plot for tours in places where motorcycles are welcome. This creates for cultural immersion such that riders can share something deeper than a mere roadside view. Though trips can be self-guided, perhaps you prefer the Southern Peninsula and Jaco tour. Here you ride the mountain ridgelines and peer down at the Pacific throughout the day. You can cross the Nicoya Peninsula, then ride dirt all the way to Samara. Come evening, you can sit on the deck, watch the beach across the street, and sleep in air conditioning. Samara is a surfer town, with great restaurants, quiet nights, and cool air. The rides are sometimes exhausting, but you will see and experience parts of Costa Rica that are beyond the reach of standard means of transport. Prices are comparable with other tour services. You can reach Moto Tours at Toll Free U.S. Number: 1-877-660-3832, Local U.S. Number: 540-230-7618, or Costa Rica Number: 506-8314-8053 or 506-8314-8108.

Motos Costa Rica

Welcome to Atenas where you will rest at B & B Villas de la Colina in Barrio Mercedes just thirty minutes from the San Jose Airport. Featuring a duel sport, eight day, deluxe volcano and beach tour, the Suarez family and Motorcycles Costa Rica will start you out on a short exploration of the area around Atenas. Day two affords scenic roads, topiary gardens, and perhaps the sounds of eruptions from Volcan Arenal. Nighttime is sometimes enhanced by lava on the hillside and a shower of sparks. Evenings are relaxed with opportunity to hike through the jungle and perhaps hear and see the howler monkeys as they move from tree to tree. Road tours include volcano and beach road routes through southern Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. Pricing is based on double occupancy with reduced rate for non-riders. Evening meals are not included. And a 50% deposit is required to confirm bookings. These are standard conditions for all of the motorcycle tour services. Your contact information is: Hotel Villas de la Colina, 2446-5015, or Fred Brown 276-228-3118,

H-C Travel

Established in 1994, H-C Travel is a worldwide tour agency. They have the knowledge, expertise, and experience to provide customers with a ride to remember. They were the first motorcycle tour operator in the UK to wind a national travel award. As a customer conscious agency, they offer 100% guaranteed financial protection for your holiday money. Holding an ATOL license, they can book your flights as well as accommodations. They handle guided tours, self-guided tours, and rentals. Rates are average, and time waste is minimal. Basic trail highlights are Turrialba volcano, airplane trail, Pacific Ocean, and skyline trail. Contact information is H-C Travel, 16 High Street, Overton, Hampshire RG25 3HA, England. Phone 01256 770775.

Original article can be found here: The Best Costa Rica Motorcycle Rides and Tours

Want to really get to see Costa Rica? If you go to Jaco and spend a bunch of time with a lot of other tourists who spend their time enjoying the city’s club scene, you may leave and realize that you never truly caught a glimpse of the untamed wilderness of Costa Rica’s “pura vida.” There are many ways that you can really get to see the unspoilt beauty of Costa Rica, but one of the best is to take a Marlin Del Rey Sailing Sunset Tour in Tamarindo.

What to Expect

Marlin Del Rey Sailing Tours have an impeccable reputation for excellence. You have been on those cheap dolphin tours where the boat is old and you never see anything too exciting. Marlin Del Rey Tours blow these chintzy tours out of the water. On the five hour long tour, you will pass miles and miles of beach with literally no signs of civilization! Talk about really getting away from it all!

Marlin Del Rey Sailing Sunset Tours leave every day at 1:30PM from Playa Tamarindo Costa Rica. The boat that you go in is incredible! It is 66 feet long, and can travel farther and faster than any other boat in all of Central America. This sailing catamaran can reaching speeds of up to 25 knots, and is so large that even with 25 other passengers, you still feel like you have the place to yourself.

The tour takes you past mile after mile of gorgeous beaches and tropical rain forests. It is common for passengers see troops of monkeys from the boat. Then, at one point, the catamaran stops at a serene bay, in which you can get out and swim around. The black sand beach you stop at is incredible, and there is a palatial private house just up the beach which is the only house you will see the whole trip. At this bay, you can decide to kayak through sea caves, snorkel in the bay, or play on the beach. This beach also features a reef, so the snorkeling is actually really good.

While you play, the Marlin Del Rey staff gets a feast of feast of fresh fruit, chips, dip, ceviche and salads ready. The thing that you should know about the Marlin Del Rey Sailing Tours is that they have an unmatched reputation for incredible customer service. If you search through reviews, you find nothing but accounts of people who rave about how far the Marlin Del Rey staff will go out of their way to make your trip great. In addition to lunch, you can also get as many homemade smoothies and drinks as you want at any point in the trip for no additional charge. The kayaks and snorkel equipment also does not cost extra.

While you sail, it is common to be able to see dolphin, flying fish, rays, and sea turtles. If you come in the fall, there is also a good chance that you will get to see whales. Finally, at the end of the trip, you get to watch the sun go down over the Pacific. The tours are all around a wonderful experience!

Tips for Visiting

If you are planning on booking a sunse tour with Marlin Del Rey Sailing, you should know in advance that the trip costs $75.00 each person. This price is probably considerably higher than you would think it would be, and may even put you off from going. But you have to consider what you are getting. Endless drinks, delicious food, free equipment, a trip to a deserted beach and reef, over five hours of sailing, and the most helpful staff that you could imagine.

Marlin Del Rey Sailing Sunset Tours are a great way to really relax, soak up the sun, and really experience the untouched beauty of Costa Rica!

Original article can be found here: Marlin Del Rey Sailing Tours

The Don Juan Coffee Tour in Monteverde, Costa Rica is an interactive and historical tour chronicling the coffee-making process from bean growth, to roasting, to packaging, to brewing. The coffee that is grown at the Don Juan Coffee farms is Arabian in originality. In the 19th century the coffee was transported to the mountains in Costa Rica and grown there for a unique twist of rich coffee flavors.

The Don Juan coffee farms are a beautiful location where other produce items such as fruit and vegetables. There also are many types of birds, butterflies and plants in residence at the Don Juan coffee farm. The best time to visit the farm is during November to March. This is when the coffee beans are harvested in the old fashioned way and dried and roasted to create the unique and rich coffee flavor that they have come to be known for. If you are visiting Costa Rica do not pass up this beautiful and exciting experience.

What to Expect

The area of Monteverde is beautiful and mountainous. The Don Juan Coffee Farm is well away from any cities and other forms of civilization. The experience of visiting the coffee tour is almost like taking a journey back in time to long ago. Almost all of the processes used to make the coffee is traditional and dates back from the 19th century when the coffee first was brought to Costa Rica. The tour covers all aspects of coffee growing and is a educational as well as delightful tour.

There are several things to do which at the Don Juan Coffee Farm. You can take the coffee tour, where visitors are shown the entire coffee making process from bean growing all the way up to grinding the beans and brewing the coffee right at the farm. You can also tour the farm and discover many beautiful birds, flowers, plants, and butterflies that populate the farm. There is also a small coffee shop where different coffees and coffee products can be purchased.

The best time to visit the Don Juan Coffee Tour is during the dry season. The temperatures in Costa Rica generally stay temperate at around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, during the spring and summer months it is considered the rainy season. Usually rains occur in the afternoon and are generally mild, but a large rain can prevent the travel up and down a mountain side. The months from January to March are the driest months in Monteverde. Additionally, visitors in this time period will get to see the beans being harvested from the coffee fields which is an interesting and exciting process.

Tips for Visiting

When visiting the Don Juan Coffee Tour there are several things to keep in mind. First of all, transportation can sometimes be an issue. Since the farms are located in a mountainous region, there are fewer modes of transportation available. It will be necessary to hire a car and driver to take you to the farm. Sometimes busses can be found for larger groups.

Secondly, time should be taken into consideration. Although the farm is somewhat small, there are many steps in the coffee making process that are included in the tour. Visitors should be aware that the tour will take almost a full day including travel time to and from the farm.

The last thing to prepare for is the weather. Clothing should be light and layered, and it is a good idea to wear pants rather than shorts. This is because there are a lot of insects and grasses that can cause rashes on the legs. It is also a good idea to carry water and an umbrella in case it rains.

Original article can be found here: Don Juan Coffee Tour in Monteverde

As you have probably already heard before, the Latin American country Costa Rica is famous around the world for the exceptional coffee beans that they grow. And yet, when you go to Costa Rica on vacation, no matter where you go, the brews that you get are all really terrible! Although is seems ironic, this strange situation actually makes a lot of sense. Since Costa Rica is a developing country, the very best coffee beans grown there are all exported to other countries. The only beans left for local consumption are the reject beans that were not good enough to be sold elsewhere.

Cafe Milagro was created by a couple of gringos came to Costa Rica to visit in between years of college and never left. The “pura vida,” or pure life, of the country was simply too irresitable. Really, the only thing that the one young gringa missed about the States was her daily cup of coffee. So, she used her student loan money to buy her own coffee roaster and went into business for herself!

About the Cafe

Although you can get Costa Rican coffee at many stores and coffee shops in the United States, by the time you purchase these bags of coffee, they are not that fresh. It takes a substantial amount of time for those beans to be roasted, packaged and then shipped across the globe before they actually get to the store shelves. So if you have had Costa Rican coffee in the States and loved it, then Cafe Milagro will be a once in a lifetime treat! This is the real stuff!

Equipped with their own bean roaster, these gringos have learned the fine art of how to perfectly roast the beans. Most modern day coffee roast producing factories use human-free, digital technology. However, the old and cantankerous roasting machine at Cafe Milagro requires the folks at Cafe Milagro to employ their sight, smell, and taste. They watch the beans carefully every time they roast, ensuring that the beans are always perfectled. They now have years of experience making coffee, and produce amazingly rich, dark roasts. They also make a delicious smooth light roast made from the famous arábica beans from the Tres Ríos region of Costa Rica.

Tips for Visiting

Cafe Milagro does not offer any flavor-infused coffees, and you wouldn’t want them anyways! These pure and unadulterated roasts will make you fall in love with coffee all over again! So be sure to stop by and try Cafe Milagro at the beginning of your trip, because once you taste it, you will surely want to go back again and again while you in Costa Rica. Cafe Milagro is easy to find, it is on the main road in Quepos facing the ocean, near the bridge.

So when you are leaving the country, make sure to grab several extra bags so that you can keep enjoying the delicious Cafe Milagro roasts at home. But the good news is that now, even after you go back home, you can still enjoy the roasts of Cafe Milagro. Just recently, Cafe Milagro has begun shipping their roasts to anywhere in the world. If it has been too long since you have been back to the gorgeous Costa Rican coasts, you can at least have a little bit of the flavor of vacation!

The Cafe roasts the beans the day before they ship them so that they will be as fresh as possible when you recieve them. And, they just lowered their shipping prices! You can now get shipping within the United States for only ten dollars! In order for your coffee to always be really fresh, they recommend only buying enough bags at one time to last you a few weeks. Another thing you can do to keep your coffee fresh is buy whole beans and wait to grind them until just before you are about to brew them. This will give your coffee the best flavor.

Original article can be found here: Cafe Milagro in Costa Rica

You may not already know it, but Costa Rica is a fantastic vacation destination. Costa Rica is the most politically stable country in all of Latin American and is very Americanized. Many Costa Ricans are bilingual, making travel much easier. And, of course, the country boasts some of the most gorgeous attractions you could ever imagine! Volcanoes, acres and acres of lush rainforest, fantastic waves for surfing and gorgeous white and black sand beaches. Its pretty much paradise!

There is a ton to do in Costa Rica, so it helps to know where to go! One of my favorite cities in Costa Rica is Quepos. It is just a tiny little town, but there are a ton of great restaurants, places to stay, and things to do. And the city is right next to one of the most gorgeous national parks in all of Central America; the Manuel Antonio National Park.

<what to Expect
In the Manuel Antonio National Park, there are tons of trails through the rainforests and gorgeous beaches. In a single day I saw an incredible variety of wildlife. If you stay in the park long enough and keep your eyes open, you will be amazed at what you can see! There are incredible giant shiny blue butterflies, and there are disgustingly cool giant spiders with equally large webs who feast on bugs such as the butterflies. There are tiny crabs with giant red claws and huge iguanas that live in trees right on the beach. The iguanas don’t seem to care about the dozens of beach-going tourists. I also saw some monkeys, a coati (it is a little bit like a raccoon), and a three toed sloth!

I fell in love with the park, so much so that I just had to see more! The next day, we signed up for a Safari Mangrove Tour of the park. How it works is you get on a small boat that holds about fifteen people. There are bilingual guides who take you deep into parts of the park that you can’t really get into if you are just walking through the trails. Because of this, you get to see a ton of animals! I think a lot of them hide back there to stay farther from the tourists (although in general none of the animals we saw even seemed to care that we were there). It is so fun because you can kind of sneak up on the animals and get really close! We saw crocodiles, (yikes!) the back end of an anteater, and a ton of monkeys! There were loud, scary howler monkeys as well as smaller squirrel monkeys. The squirrel monkeys actually even came right down onto boat! It was such a great tour and an amazing experience!

Tips for Visiting

I absolutely recommend going to the Manuel Antonio National Park and going on the Safari Mangrove Tour! It was one of the coolest things I have ever gotten to do! But here is a little bit of advice if you plan on going. First of all, bring your camcorder! I didn’t because I was worried it would get wet, but my camera was fine, and I wished I would have brought my camcorder, too. It is quite wet on the boats though, although they do keep them really clean. Costa Rica is just a wet place. So you might want to wear a swimsuit or bring a poncho.

Water inevitably gets in the bottom of the boat, so I would recommend flip flops. Also, they don’t have anywhere to lock away your stuff, so don’t bring a ton with you. You never have to leave your things, though, so you do not have to worry about them being stolen. Those are some things I wish I would have known about before I went on the Safari Mangrove Tour, so I just wanted to pass them along. There are a ton of amazing things to do in Costa Rica, but this was one of my personal favorites!

Original article can be found here: Safari Mangrove Tours in Quepos

When Pure Trek first opened its doors in 2001 the proverbial flood gates were opened with the company quickly becoming the most popular destination for adventure seekers when they visit Costa Rica. Adventure is the dominant word when explaining the company as a whole, when they created Pure Trek Canyoning in Costa Rica it quickly took of with visitors from all over the world flocking to take part in adventure experiences that very few before them had ever taken part in. When the company says its staff is experienced they really mean it, as you will find out when you take one of their extensive catalogues of treks and tours guided by experts in all fields of expeditionary adventuring and exploring. This is helped by the fact that most of the adventure leaders are of South American or Costa Rican origin, so know the terrain better than anybody, this helps ensure your safety at all times through the expertise of staff members.

You will not find adventure tours anywhere on Costa Rica like the ones that Pure Trek offers. These are not just simulated experiences on theme park attractions but very real trips into what can be imagined as wandering into unknown territory. As you embark on one of the many tours you a prepared and talked through thoroughly by staff members who bring on an adrenalin rush as they explain what to expect before your adventure even begins.

What to Expect

Imagine being face to face with white water rapids and waterfalls as you speed down a river in a toughened inflatable raft on some of Costa Rica’s most challenging waterways. Not only will you spend the day negotiating white water rapids but you will see some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful landscapes and an abundance of wildlife. It is not for the faint hearted but one of the many experiences that will really get your heart racing leaving you exhilarated and thirsty for more. The day starts with your breakfast and a quick but thorough talk as you are suited up with all the equipment for the day ahead; then you will be whisked away in the provided transport to your destination. You will also have lunch provided which is great news as it is quite hungry going out there. The river tours depend on what level of ability you feel you are up to the challenge of; as the rivers are rated class II to IV which basically means how much white water you might expect on your trip.

Pure Trek have adventure tour packages all over Costa Rica there isn’t a corner left untouched by the company. There are currently six regions to choose from which are; San Jose, La Fortuna and Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero and Tamarindo; with plans for two more regions that the details are to be finalized for in Corcovado and Guanacaste.

Each of these regions have the finest adventure experiences that you will find in Costa Rica, all with their own unique features, such as the volcano hikes at Arenal Volcano and the tour of Venado Caves which truly are out of this world when it comes to scenery and views. The spectacular cloud forest in Monteverde is an absolute must for those who revel in scenery and wildlife; there is hardly a place like it on Earth.

There is river rafting and mountain biking among the adventure to be had in San Jose, deep sea fishing and ocean kayaking on the list of things to experience in Manuel Antonio. Other things to see in this amazing country are Green Turtles nesting and jungle hikes in Tortuguero, scuba diving and horse riding which can all be topped of with a relaxing sail into the sunset in Tamarindo.

Tips for Visiting

Without a doubt Pure Trek champion the words adventure and exploration without compromise. The experiences are not to be missed by anyone with adventure in their blood and an appetite for fun. The list of activities stretches beyond the horizon and simply cannot be taken in with just a few days to spare. You will need to plan for more or less a full two weeks at least if you want to take part the main portion of tours available. Also you should plan ahead of time when you book your trip to avoid any disappointment if you just turn up. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Most of your equipment is provided for by Pure Trek, but make sure you do bring some spare hiking equipment such as jackets, thermals, shorts, socks and a good pair of boots. You will have to be physically fit to try out some of the experiences which you will be warned about in advance by the staff and guides. There is a lot of common sense and being honest with yourself involved with some of the activities available; it is always better to know your limitations before you attempt to take part in any extreme sports or experiences. Remember nature is not to be taken lightly in some instances which in the long run, being careful will only benefit you when it comes down to your safety and enjoyment. With that information in mind you will not fail to achieve things you never thought possible in your wildest dreams, you are in for the time of your life.

Original article can be found here: Pure Trek in Arenal

Quepos made our list of top 10 cities in Costa Rica because it is packed with plenty of things to do for the adventure minded traveler. From deep sea fishing to waterfall repelling, Quepos has it all. Unlike some other adventure oriented cities on our list, Quepos is also great because it offers up plenty of beach exploring as well. This is something other adventure destinations like La Fortuna can’t offer. Below are a few of our favorite things to do in Quepos.

If you have any other suggestions, let us know and we will add them to the list!

Charter Boat Fishing in Puerta Quepos

There is a wealth of activities in Quepos, some that revolve around the sea and other that take advantage of the scenic panoramas. One thing that is a must for any sports enthusiast is a sport fishing trip. There are literally hundreds of charters available. Most can be got and rented ahead of time so that you can be assured to get a boat. If it is a family vacation you and the whole clan can go out to sea and bring home the big fish. These fishing trips are usually an all day event so be sure to block out the appropriate amount of time. Getting out to sea off the coast of Costa Rica gives you a chance to see Quepos in all of its splendor. Moving out from puerto Quepos you can see the ocean village surrounded by mountain peaks that drop into the ocean. Once out to the deep sea there is all manner of fish to be caught and rest assured that it will be a challenge to even the most advanced of fisherman.

Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike

For an affordable rate you can find half day hikes that will cover the majority of the park. The trails are fairly easy so you do not need to be an expert climber to enjoy this nature experience. Once out into the park you will be surrounded by the natural flora and fauna of Costa Rica. These hikes offer you unique chance to possible see monkeys and other native creatures while at the same time enjoying all the natural flowers and other plants. Views of gorgeous beaches and panoramas at the mountains peaks give you a once in lifetime look at this rain forest scenery. If you have never been to Costa Rica before this is a must do. The chance to see wildlife unique to Costa Rica is not something you can experience anywhere else.

Costa Rican Canopy Safari

A knowledgeable and friendly guide will take you through the tour high above the Costa Rican rain forest. Their insight and knowledge will teach about all of the different natural features of the Costa Rican environment. In addition you will be zipping from tree to tree at breakneck speed on your zip lines, so while the trip will be educational it is exhilarating as well. The guides will speak English so book a trip confidently even if your Spanish is not up to snuff. Most of the canopy tours are about five hours long so it will take up most of a day. There are also night safari’s available that will give you a totally different perspective from the day trip. The wild rain forest at night is something to behold.

Waterfall Rappelling

If you are a true outdoors man or woman and are looking for a challenge in the Costa Rican environment then waterfall rappelling is probably right up your alley. Strap in and descend down eighty five foot cascades on this once in lifetime activity. By going on a rappelling waterfall outing you will be literally immersing yourself in the Costa Rican environment. Get wet and dig in to enjoy Costa Rica in all of it’s glory. There is nothing quite like rappelling right down the middle of a waterfall in the middle of the rain forest. The company will provide you with all the equipment you need to hop in and get started right away. Feel the water rush past as you descend down the near vertical river. This is a once in lifetime experience you will not want to miss.

Tocari Waterfalls Horseback Ride

One of the most relaxing and casual activities that you can do in Quepos is a horseback ride to the Tocari waterfalls. Site back and let your expert guide take you down the trails to the gorgeous waterfalls. They will teach about the history of Costa Rica and give you lessons on all the local flora and fauna. A truly fun outing for the experienced and inexperienced rider. The trails are not to challenging and the horses can handle them easily. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy.

Original article can be found here: Things to do in Quepos

San Jose, Costa Rica is a phenomenal place to visit while on a tour or vacation, and offers a wide array of interesting things to do. Exploring the area can be incredibly fun and eye-opening, especially if you are fan of the outdoors and nature activities. San Jose also boasts an incredibly vibrant and exciting nightlife for those who enjoy nights out on the town. Thanks to its rich cultural heritage and amazing history, San Jose is also home to a splendid variety of museums which will surely please even the most discerning tourist.

Day Trips from San Jose

Simon Bolivar Zoological Park

One very popular and family friendly attraction in San Jose, Costa Rica is the Simon Bolivar Zoological Park. This zoo, while relatively small, is jam-packed with an incredible array of Costa Rican wildlife. There is also a large variety of other animals, including some from Asia and Africa. The Simon Bolivar Zoological Park is a great way to spend an afternoon, or even an entire day, in while visiting San Jose. You and your traveling companions will find a great number of opportunities for photographs of the many animals on display here. This zoo also offers a great educational opportunity, as visitors can learn many interesting facts about the various animals on display.

Museums

If you or people in your traveling party are fans or students of art history, there are many options for art museums in San Jose, Costa Rica. One example which really stands out is the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. This is certainly one of the most unique art displays one could ever hope to encounter, and it is worth a visit. More than 2,000 incredible pieces of work, all done in gold, are on display here. All of the work at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum is quite ancient and really gives visitors a feel for how the culture of Costa Rica must have been back in those ancient times. This museum is a great opportunity to educate yourself on the culture and history of Costa Rica; there is also an amazing display of stamps and gold coins here which will further enhance your visiting experience.

The Museo Nacional, or National Museum, is another great place to check out while you are inn San Jose, Costa Rica. This museum has an archeological room with Indian artifacts and items such as pottery and arrowheads. It also has a colonial room, where visitors can view and learn about the Spanish conquest and many artifacts from that period of Costa Rica’s history. In another area of this museum there are exhibits about various contemporary art in Costa Rica.

Turu Ba Ri Tropical Park

For those who enjoy hiking and being out and around incredibly scenic natural environments, the Turu Ba Ri Tropical Park is an absolute must for any visit to San Jose, Costa Rica. This intriguing park boasts nearly 600 acres of undeveloped, protected natural wildlife and amazing vegetation. With over 500 different kinds and species of plants, those who enjoy learning about and seeing different types of flowers and trees will certainly be incredibly entertained at this beautiful place. The park offers many wonderful hiking trails, so please bring your hiking boots, water bottles and perhaps even a light picnic lunch to bring with you while you explore the gorgeous surroundings. For those who enjoy a thrill, there is also a “Tarzan Swing” which is over 260 feet high!

Plaza de la Cultura

While in San Jose, Costa Rica, you may find yourself wanting to do a little shopping. Perhaps you would like to pick up some souvenirs for yourself or for friends and family back home. If so, head right over to the Plaza de la Cultura (the Plaza of the Culture). This is undoubtedly the most popular and varied shopping area in all of San Jose, and you are certain to find many wonderful items to remind yourself of your Costa Rican trip for many years to come. There are many street vendors in this area, as well as many delicious and enticing options for dining out and trying the fantastic local cuisine. Or you can simply stroll around the area and watch the comings and goings of the local residents of San Jose. No matter what you do there, you are sure to have a great time.

Finally, no trip to San Jose, Costa Rica would be complete without sampling some of its incredible nightlife. Whether you seek dancing, entertainment or a simple but pleasant dining experience, San Jose has plenty to offer. There are many great dance clubs and restaurants to go to in San Jose, and a night on the town here will never be forgotten by you or anyone in your tour group.

Original article can be found here: What to do in San Jose

Whether arriving by land or by sea, visitors to Costa Rica often seek a coffee experience. It’s little wonder, considering the world-wide popularity of coffee and the contribution that this Central American nation makes to our global coffee culture. Even so, visitors here are often pleasantly surprised by the fun and education that they receive when they choose to take the Cafe Britt Coffee Tour. This is one of our favorite day trips from San Jose.

What to Expect

This fascinating tour is beyond the typical; just about 30 minutes from San Jose, guests arrive at the working farm in the middle highlands, of this lush tropical land to enjoy a renewing nature walk through verdant foliage, surrounded by tropical scents and sounds, capped with a lighthearted live stage play about working with coffee, the value of the crop, and life in Costa Rica.

Throughout the tour, visitors learn about the entire cycle; from a small, green bean, to your local coffee bar. A cupping demonstration lends enlightenment into what makes a coffee “gourmet” , and how to properly taste, detect and assess its characteristics.

Coffee means a lot to the people here, and is recognized as a major contributor to democracy of this nation, but more than that, it’s also a major thread through the cultural and economic tapestry of Costa Rica. This is all brought to life in a most enjoyable way throughout the tour, where visitors enjoy the unfolding story of two farm workers and how this precious bean has affected their lives. Like the Costa Rican people in general, these are warm, friendly people that are quick to share their pride-and story-with a dramatic flourish.

While it sounds like a lot of walking, this a leisurely-paced tour over easy terrain, and can easily be undertaken by anyone in good health. Families with children are not only welcome, but parents will appreciate the structure of the entire tour, as it easily entertains even those with short attention spans.

Available Tour Packages

The Classic Coffee Tour includes a leisurely, but educational guided walk through the farm, with discussion of growing, harvesting, sustainability practices, and more, and includes a stop at the aromatic roasting plant. Following the walk, guests enjoy a witty live play, and then lunch at Don Prospero, the lovely on-site buffet restaurant. After lunch, spend some time to wander a little or buy coffee & more in the gift shop. This tour lasts approximately 1 1/2 hours.

The Cappuccino Tour is the same as the classic, but with an espresso presentation and demonstration, with instruction in making that perfect cup of espresso. Add an hour for the demonstration, for a total time of 2 1/2 hours.

The Coffee Lover’s Tour is for those that hunger for even more knowledge and coffee experience. This tour combines the Cappuccino tour with a ride to Tiera Madre, where guests visit the wet mill and enjoy a “cupping”, or coffee tasting. The mill adds an hour to the total time, for a time total of about 3 1/2 hours.

The drama is scheduled daily at 11:00AM, every day, all year long. In high season, from December through April, the show also runs at 3:00PM. All tours, presentations and discussion are conducted simultaneously in English and Spanish. Cafe Britt offers transportation from all of Costa Rica’s hotels, or transportation can be arranged locally. Most cruise lines offer pre-arranged shore excursions that may be purchased onboard.

Helpful Tips

Naturally, given the tropical climate, participants will want to wear cool, light, breathable clothing and certainly good walking shoes. A hat and sunblock are always recommended in tropical climates, too.

Guests should plan to take group transportation, not only for safety, but also for economy and logistics, too. If visiting from a cruise ship, take the excursion offered onboard rather than planning to “go it alone”, as any mishaps could leave passengers stranded. In such circumstances, it is far better to have the cruise line solve the problem.

This tour captures what travel is all about; despite the acting, it introduces visitors to real people and real situations. Sure, it may be a bit campy, but its fun and its real, and if taken for a good time in the volcanic Costa Rican jungle, the Cafe Britt Coffee Tour is well worth the time-and coffee.

Original article can be found here: Cafe Britt Coffee Tour