Tag - Puerto Viejo

Join us as we embark on a remarkable adventure across this remarkable country with the highest biodiversity in the world! From the lively streets of San José to the serene beaches of the Pacific coast and the vibrant Caribbean side, this extended travel blog will take you on a detailed tour of Costa Rica’s diverse regions.

San José: The Starting Point

Our journey kicks off in San José, the capital city of Costa Rica. Usually overlooked and quickly skipped by most travellers, San José is a bustling city and while it may not be as renowned for its architecture as some other cities, it boasts several notable architectural gems worth exploring.

La Fortuna: The vulcanic experience

After two days, our trip takes us north to La Fortuna, a 3 hour drive from the capital city. Along the way, we were greeted by waterfalls and endless rivers.

La Fortuna is home to the imposing El Arenal Volcano. Its perfectly conical shape dominates the skyline. Here you can enjoy the countless hot springs and explore the lush waterfalls. Tip: visit the free natural hot springs just after the Tabacon Resort. It’s a stretch to get there, but it will be worth it. Some other acivitities to do are:

Visiting the La Fortuna Waterfall: also known as “Catarata Fortuna,” is a stunning natural wonder. To access the La Fortuna Waterfall, you’ll need to hike along a well-maintained trail that descends through the rainforest. The hike can be challenging, involving steep stairs and uneven terrain, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views. The price is $18 per person.

Jumping in the water from the rope swing “El Salto”: About a 30 minute walk from the centre of La Fortuna. The walk isn’t dangerous and is fairly straightforward. It can get very busy here as it’s free so we’d recommend going early in the morning. Although our things were safe you should only really bring essential items: a towel, some water and some food.

Coffee and chocolate farm tour: There are a lot of tours to choose from where you can learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of these two beloved crops.

For more tips and tricks about La Fortuna, make sure to read our La Fortuna blog.

Exploring the Pacific Coast

After 5 days, we left La Fortuna to explore the Pacific coast. Our first stop is the little town of Garza. Garza is a hidden gem where time seems to slow down. There are little to no places to stay in Garza, as a very large plot owner does not want tourism to endanger the beauty of this village. Walking on the beach is a very rare experience, as the beach is completely yours. We stayed at Surfhost which is a small wooden cabin directly at the beach, where you wake up to the sounds of the ocean.

Our path leads us to our next stop: Playa Muertos, a secluded paradise straight from Expedition Robinson. You cannot acces it by car, as you have to take a local boat. We payed around $10 for a local to take us, but then you do have the whole beach for yourself together with the hermit crabs. The area is filled with crocodiles as the salt water intertwines with the fresh water. However on the beach where the salt water is, there are no crocodiles, so you can go for a swim.

Santa Teresa is our next stop. Santa Teresa, a bohemian haven, captivates with its laid-back charm. Here you can fill your days with thrilling surfing adventures, while evenings come alive with the vibrant arts and culture scene that defines this coastal town.

After a couple of days, our journey takes us further south to Quepos and Manuel Antonio, where we explore Manuel Antonio National Park, a sanctuary of lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking beaches. Here you can spot sloths, toucans and howler monkeys. We chose to stay in Quepos, because it’s a cheaper alternative to Manuel Antonio. You can hire a guide, but if you pay attention you can see a lot of wildlife yourself. Please be aware to buy the tickets at the official counter, as there a lot of “fake” counters. The entry fee is around $18,-

The Caribbean Charms: Puerto Viejo and Beyond

Turning our compass eastward, we discover the vibrant Caribbean side of Costa Rica, a region pulsating with reggae rhythms, rich culture, and unique beaches. It is a completely different world compared to the west of the country. Getting there is quite easy. You can take the local bus which will take you to San José from Quepos. From there you can catch a bus to Puerto Viejo. During the 6 hour ride you will see limitless amounts of banana fields.

This charming town is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Caribbean experience. Puerto Viejo’s multicultural community is a reflection of the Caribbean’s diverse heritage. Here, you’ll find a mix of Afro-Caribbean, Indigenous, and European influences, resulting in a rich and vibrant culture. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make visitors feel right at home. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself extending your stay.

You can find more tips on the Caribbean coast here.

How long to stay?

The ideal length of stay in Costa Rica, can vary depending on your interests, travel pace, and the experiences you want to enjoy in the area. However, a general recommendation is to plan for at least 3 weeks to fully savor what this gem has to offer.

Check out our three week Itinery

Conclusion

Of course there is way more to explore in Costa Rica and with its remarkable landscape and the genuine warmth of its people, is definitely worth a visit. From the bustling capital to the tranquil beaches and the lively Caribbean coast, this country has it all. However as tourism has exploded in this Country, it has become very expensive. A day trip/workshop will set you back $200 easily. So take that into consideration if you are planning to visit. Pura Vida!

Our Costa Rica score: 7,5/10