Costa Rica 2005
a vacation
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After a comedic flight experience on LACSA, we arrived in San Jose and picked up our 4x4 to take us from San Jose to the town of La Fortuna, spared by a major eruption of the Arenal Volcano in 1968 . . . hence the name. -
The Arenal volcano is still active, spewing rocks by day and glowing red by night. It's a pyroclastic flow as opposed to the more familiar lava flow that you might see in Hawaii. During our four days here, we rappelled down 160 foot waterfalls, hiked to the La Fortuna Waterfall, found a local swimming hole with a killer rope swing and, toured the Hanging Bridges, hiked through old lava flow in the Arenal Volcano Park, and relaxed in the hot springs. -
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We spent the first two days at the Tabacon Resort and Hot Springs. It's a great place (a bit expensive) with great food and comfortable rooms. The best thing about the Tabacon is the easy access to the hot springs and pool. -
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Arenal Observatory LodgeFortuna, Costa Rica | 290 7011
After a few days at the Tabacon, we moved on to the more rustic Arenal Observatory Lodge for a closer view of the volcano. We went on a great hike to the base of the volcano as well as a waterfall hike that starts on the grounds of the lodge itself. -
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On day 5 of our trip, we crossed Lake Arenal to meet up with our guide who would take us on horseback to our next stop: Monteverde -
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After crossing the lake, we met up with Javier and set out on horseback. It was a rough climb and not without drama and excitement as the horses struggled through foot-deep mud. -
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Mirador LodgeSanta Elena de Monteverde, Costa Rica | 645 5354
After a 4 hour ride on horseback across the mountains, we arrived soaking wet at the beautiful Mirador Mountain Lodge. We picked up our 4x4 and headed into town for some much needed coffee and relaxation. -
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Over the next few days, we explored the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, zipped through the treetops and braved the Tarzan Swing at La Aventura Canopy, toured the Cheese Factory and the Monteverde Coffee Co-Op where we loaded up with coffee to bring home. We also visited El Mundo de los Insectos and the Serpentario. Overall, Monteverde was a very cool little town. More travelers than tourists and lots to do. Just don't expect anything to dry. -
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On Day 7, we drove five hours west to Playa Grande, a quiet beach separated by an estuary from the more popular beach town of Tamarindo. We dropped off our car and pretty much stranded ourselves for five days on the beach with nothing to do but chill out. Here, it didn't matter what time or day it was (except if the restaurant kitchen was closed). Highlights included sunsets at low tide, Vivien learning to body board, surfing, an ATV tour through the coves in Playa Flamingo and a daytime stroll to the local mercado for ice cream sandwiches. We stayed at the Rip Jack Inn, a wonderful place run by an expat couple from San Francisco. Johnny was our friendly waiter in the restaurant, and he brought us some of the best food in the world. Con mucho gusto he always said...with a big smile. -
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Day 12: Our improvisational skills were put to the test when we found Sansa Air had cancelled its 6AM flight from Tamarindo, which was supposed to take us to Rio Pacuare for a 2-day rafting excursion. We had to take a later flight. -
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It was a race against time as we attempted to join with our rafting group in Turrialba. Unfortunately, we arrived too late and had to drive straight to Siquierres where a driver picked us up to take us to the Pacuare Lodge. -
Instead of arriving by raft, we arrived by 4x4. Still, there was a river that had to be crossed. I swam, and Vivien rode across in a basket. The Pacuare Lodge was absolutely wonderful. True style in the wilderness. After a hike to a nearby waterfall with some of our fellow guests (including photographer Adrian Hepworth) and a fabulous gourmet dinner under the stars, we awoke the next day to a thrilling canopy tour. And then, without a minute to waste, we set off on a rafting adventure down the Rio Pacuare. Thanks to Javier and Karla for posting the rafting pics. -
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Day 13: We rented another 4x4 in San Jose and drove four hours to Manuel Antonio, the last leg of our journey. -
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Days 13-15: The area of Manuel Antonio and Quepos is by far the most developed we'd seen in all of Costa Rica. We explored the beaches and jungles of Manuel Antonio National Park in search of the white-faced capuchin monkey. We found a few, although they were hard to see. We spent time souvenir shopping, swimming, and relaxing in hammocks at La Posada. -
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Day 15: After 3 days, we said goodbye to the beach and headed back to San Jose for our flight home. We stopped in Jaco on the way back for some much recommended pizza. It did not disappoint. -
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Days 15 & 16: There was one more surprise waiting for us. TACA had overbooked our flight, and they bumped us to the next day. So, after weeks of rustic jungle living, we spent the last day in a Quality Inn, with all the discomforts of home. Still, we had a chance to explore San Jose and we flew home in business class . . . most importantly: with vouchers for a return flight! -
- total distance: 518 miles (834 km)
Travelers
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Byron DumbrillWest Hollywood, CA, USA
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Vivien ParkWest Hollywood, CA, USA
Followers
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Javier Monforte MartÃnMadrid, Spain
Main Location
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Costa RicaCountry | 5 followers
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