Unforgettable Adventures in Costa Rica

Welcome to the land of pura vida!

Let's be honest here, one week really isn't enough time in magnificent Costa Rica, in my opinion. However, if you plan it well, then you can see and do a lot in one week.

A Family-Friendly Stay in Guanacaste

My first trip to Costa Rica was to the Pacific coastal province called Guanacaste. It consists of areas such as Liberia (where the closest airport is: LIR), Playa Hermosa, Tamarindo, and Nosara.

Since for my first trip, I had my four children with me, we stayed at a convenient all-inclusive (anyone with kids or who has ever tried to feed kids knows how challenging finding things to eat can be!), RIU Guanacaste, which is right next to the adults-only RIU Palace. This was a great introduction to Costa Rica. We drove along beautiful rainforests on the 45-minute ride from the airport. Then once we arrived at the hotel, we were right on beautiful and very small Matapalo Beach.

Adventures and Wildlife Encounters

There is so much to do in this area! In our five days, we ate all kinds of delicious food at the resort’s five different dining options. We all went ATVing and zip-lining. There are also jet skis to rent, small boat cruises, horseback riding, hiking, and so much more! Very close by the resort is the Diamante Eco Adventure Park. This is where we went zip-lining. At the end of our five lines, we came out right in the heart of the zoo where you can see sloths, monkeys, toucans, many beautiful cat species, as well as an amazing butterfly sanctuary.

We did venture away from the resort to check out nearby Coco Beach (Playa Coco) to try some local food that wasn’t at the resort and to do some souvenir shopping. This is also the only place in the area beside the airport to get some cash if you need it.

Falling in Love with Costa Rica

My family and I enjoyed Costa Rica so much on our first visit that I just knew I was coming back, many times! The locals, or Ticos, as they are called, are so friendly and welcoming. Their energy is so pure. The popular Costa Rican expression, “Pura Vida,” which you will hear often and directly translates to pure life, is so fitting. It’s a declaration of optimism and living a full life.

A Solo Journey Begins

On my second trip to Costa Rica, I decided to make a solo venture. I have been to a few countries in Europe by myself, and I really enjoy traveling alone. It gives me the freedom to go at my own pace and to see and do the things that I want without having to come to a consensus with travel buddies or family.

This time I decided to fly into the capital city of Costa Rica, San Jose.

Exploring the Central Valley

I picked up a rental car from the airport and drove through the Central Valley exploring San Jose, Escazu, Santa Ana, and Atenas.

The next morning, I made the beautiful and peaceful two-hour drive from Atenas up to La Fortuna. There I stayed at one of my favorite resorts I’ve ever visited, Nayara Gardens. It is a rainforest paradise, where everyone has a private casita with a terrace and either an outdoor jacuzzi or an infinity plunge pool surrounded by the sounds of birds.

Experiencing the Beauty of La Fortuna

La Fortuna is near the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Many of the hotels in the area have natural hot springs to enjoy. You can also go horseback riding nearby at the Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Your visit here is not complete without seeing the La Fortuna Waterfall, but be sure to have enough stamina for the 530 steps down and back up!

Takeaways

Costa Rica is a land of adventure and discovery, where every corner holds a new and exhilarating experience. From the heart-pounding thrill of ziplining to the serene beauty of butterfly gardens, the indulgent delight of chocolate making, and gorgeous beaches, there's something for everyone in this tropical paradise. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the wonders of Costa Rica, and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime. Pura vida!