Friendliness, nature and colourful birds: our trip to Costa Rica
Kitty & Jo
Sapa Pana Travel put together a bespoke trip to Costa Rica for us. For us, it was our first taste of a country in Central America. What struck us was the beautiful green countryside – even in the dry season – the breathtaking scenery and the friendliness of the locals. We went on an absolutely brilliant road trip through Costa Rica, organised by Sapa Pana Travel.
Coast and tranquillity in Tortoguero
Our unique itinerary allowed us to explore the various nature reserves that Costa Rica has to offer. We visited Tortoguero on the Caribbean coast, with its strong Afro-Caribbean influences, which is renowned for its unique mangrove forest. We stayed at the Mawamba Lodge, which was a lovely place to stay.
Breakfast surrounded by colourful birds in Tenorio
After these first few days, we were finally able to set off in our rental car. Our first destination was the beautiful Tenorio National Park, where we woke up bright and early in the morning to the chirping of the most beautiful birds at a very atmospheric accommodation. During our stay, we visited the Tapir Valley Nature Reserve, accompanied by a friendly and professional guide. Naturally, we were once again overwhelmed by the countless birds flying overhead.
Nightlife in Monteverde
Of course, a visit to Monteverde was a must, where we were introduced to the nocturnal wildlife on a small plantation. After sunset, we set off with nothing but a torch in our pockets. Hats off to our guide Pablo! He shared his passion for this environment and its wildlife with us skilfully and enthusiastically. In no time at all, we felt like experts on Costa Rican nocturnal wildlife. This alone made for an impressive experience.
Culinary delights in Dominical
After our pleasant stay in Monteverde, we drove to the Dominical area on the Pacific coast. We stayed at the Las Nubes Energy Resort, situated higher up in the hills. The journey there was quite a challenge, but once we arrived, it exceeded all our expectations. Our accommodation was tucked away amongst the green mountains, yet we had a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. As we’d already heard from the team at Sapa Pana Travel, the hospitable Belgian owner pampered us thoroughly, and his cooking is also of the highest standard. During our stay, we hopped into a kayak and explored the nearby mangrove swamp.
“ “This kayaking trip comes highly recommended!” ”
A rich variety of wildlife in Corcovado
Our rental car took us to the next destination on our trip, to the south coast of Costa Rica, where we stayed in a beautiful nature reserve. In the morning, we were woken by a pair of howler monkeys, who certainly live up to their name. Whether on a walk with a local guide or sitting on our terrace with a fantastic view, we watched the wildlife pass by throughout the day. From coatis and peccaries to macaws and agoutis.
The perfect way to round off the trip
We rounded off our trip in Costa Rica’s capital, San José, with a delicious dinner at the rooftop restaurant Azotea. On the way back to the airport, we received a call from the local organisation asking if everything had gone to our satisfaction. It was very thoughtful of them to check in with us on their day off. We were, of course, able to reassure them, as we thoroughly enjoyed our wonderful and varied trip in Costa Rica.
Would you like to go on a self-guided trip of Costa Rica or another country in Latin America, and are you curious about the possibilities? Then do have a look at the itineraries we’ve put together for inspiration. You can book these tours directly, but we’d also be happy to put together a personalised itinerary based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have a question? Please feel free to contact us. Call +31 73 610 62 04 or send an email to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We’ll be happy to help.